GKIDS Acquires Distribution Rights to ‘Lonely Castle in the Mirror’

Japan Academy Prize-nominated feature from acclaimed director Keiichi Hara and A-1 Pictures releases in North American theaters this summer.

GKIDS has announced its acquisition of all North American distribution rights for A-1 Pictures’ Lonely Castle in the Mirror. From acclaimed director Keiichi Hara (Colorful, Miss Hokusai) and based on the bestselling novel by Mizuki Tsujimura, the animated drama centers on the pains of growing up and the unlikely bonds that can bring people together. GKIDS will release the film, in both its original Japanese language and an all-new English dubbed version, in North American theaters this summer.

The feature premiered internationally at the New York International Children’s Film Festival and at the Rotterdam International Film Festival, which marked the first time a Japanese animated feature was selected for the festival. It released in Japan December 2022 where it earned the nomination for the Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year.

In the film, shy outcast Kokoro has been avoiding school for weeks when she discovers a portal in her bedroom mirror. She reaches through and finds herself transported to an enchanting castle where she is joined by six other students. When a girl in a wolf mask explains that they have been invited to play a game, the teens must work together to uncover the mysterious connection that unites them. However, anyone who breaks the rules will be eaten by a wolf.

Hara worked with various past collaborators on the project, including screenwriter Miho Maruo (Miss Hokusai, The Wonderland), composer Harumi Fuuki (Miss Hokusai, The Wonderland), as well as acclaimed artist Ilya Kuvshinov (The Wonderland) for visual concept and castle designs.

Hirotaka Aragaki and Kei Kishiyama served as producers for the film. The Japanese voice cast includes Ami Touma; Takumi Kitamura; Sakura Kiryu; Rihito Itagaki; Naho Yokomizo; Minami Takayama; Yuki Kaji; and Mana Ashida.

“We are thrilled to be able to work again with director Keiichi Hara” said GKIDS President David Jesteadt. “His latest film is a deeply emotional story about the private struggles we all go through, and the small yet joyous connections with others that make life worth living. I can’t wait for North American audiences to join us on a trip to the Lonely Castle in the Mirror.”

The all-rights North American distribution deal was negotiated between GKIDS and NTV. GKIDS handles North American distribution for Hara’s previous feature films Summer Days with Coo (2007) and Miss Hokusai (2015).