Disney+ is adding celebrated Japanese anime films including “Your Name.” and “Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence” to its U.K. and France libraries through a licensing deal with Anime Limited, the companies revealed, as Disney+ and Hulu’s fourth annual Animayhem campaign kicks off with new anime titles this summer.
The collection includes films from directors such as Shinkai Makoto (“Your Name,” “Weathering with You”), Hosoda Mamoru (“Mirai,” “Belle,” “Wolf Children,” “Summer Wars,” “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time”), Oshii Mamoru (“Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence”) and Kon Satoshi (“Perfect Blue”). Yamada Naoko’s “A Silent Voice” and Otomo Katsuhiro’s “Akira” will stream exclusively in the U.K. and Ireland, while the rest of the slate will be available in both the U.K. and France. Several titles, including “Belle,” “Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence,” “Mirai” and “Weathering with You,” will mark their streaming debut in both territories. Premiere dates for individual films will be revealed at a later time.
Lauren Tempest, head of content planning and partnerships, DTC at the Walt Disney Company, said: “Anime is a powerful global storytelling force – resonating deeply with audiences around the world, including in key markets like the U.K. and France where fan communities continue to expand. We’re committed to meeting the audience where they are and making Disney+ the home of beloved anime storytelling – bringing culture, community and must-watch stories to one destination.”
