Anime Classics Coming To Disney+ In the UK, Ireland and France

Anime is one of the hottest commodities in the streaming market. But when you think of where to go to watch it, it's unlikely that the first name that comes to mind is Disney Plus. That could be changing, however, as the Mouse House's streaming service has a growing library of Japanese animation. And now, Disney has signed a deal with one of the world's foremost anime distributors to bring a selection of the most acclaimed anime movies of all time to the service.

The deal between Disney Plus and Toho International-owned Anime Limited will see the films stream to subscribers in the United Kingdom, Ireland and France. They include films from such filmmakers as Makoto Shinkai, Mamoru Hosoda, Naoko Yamada and Satoshi Kon. Several of the films are making their UK streaming debut, while others have been available on other streaming services in the past.

Titles will include Your Name, Weathering With You, Mirai, Belle, Wolf Children, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Ghost In The Shell 2 and Perfect Blue. A Silent Voice and the iconic classic Akira will stream exclusively in the UK and Ireland, while the rest of the slate will also be available in France. 

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.”

Karl Holmes, General Manager Disney Plus EMEA added: “Anime fans have a handful of films they always come back to and love sharing, and this collection brings many of those favourites together. It’s easy to see why they’re so loved. Created by some of anime’s greatest storytellers, these films have inspired fans for years with unforgettable characters and extraordinary worlds. We can’t wait for our customers in the U.K. and France to discover them on Disney+.”

Kerry Kasim, co-managing director of Anime Limited said: “Fresh off the back of Annecy Film Festival, anime remains one of the most compelling storytelling mediums for audiences today. We’re overjoyed to make Disney+ the home of such strong story-led features from some of anime’s brightest lights. French, British and Irish fans are in for a treat.”

The films will be available this summer. Specific premiere dates are to be announced at a later date.

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