The Colors Within Wins Best Animation Film at Shanghai International Film Festival

Naoko Yamada's latest anime feature, "The Colors Within" (Kimi no Iro), clinched the prestigious Best Animated Film accolade at the 26th Shanghai International Film Festival this past weekend.

Originally slated for a release in autumn 2023, the film is now set to premiere in Japan on August 30, 2024. Distribution rights for North America, Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand have been secured by GKIDS, with Anime Ltd. handling distribution across Europe. PLAION PICTURES will manage Italian- and German-speaking territories, while CHARADES will oversee distribution in remaining European regions, Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand.

Directed by Naoko Yamada at Science SARU, "The Colors Within" was produced by Story Inc., with Reiko Yoshida credited as the screenwriter. Kensuke Ushio composed the music, and character design and animation direction were led by Takashi Kojima. The theme song, "in the pocket," is performed by Mr. Children.

The film follows Totsuko, a high school student with the unique ability to perceive the emotional "colors" within people. Attending a mission school in Nagasaki, Totsuko uses her talents to shield her friends and family from negative emotions through careful attention and occasional deception. Her journey unfolds as she encounters a woman with a remarkably vibrant emotional hue and a music enthusiast aiming to form a band. Together, they embark on a transformative musical journey.

Earlier this month, "The Colors Within" premiered at the Annecy International Film Festival to critical acclaim for its compelling narrative and captivating animation. With its recent success at the Shanghai International Film Festival, anticipation mounts for its upcoming release, promising audiences a visually striking and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.