Studio 4°C’s Latest Film `ChaO` Unveils New Cuts Showing the Protagonist’s Transformation!
STUDIO4°C, the creative minds behind acclaimed films like `Tekkon Kinkreet`, `Kaijuu no Kodomo`, and `Eiga Entotsu Machi no Poupelle`, is set to release their latest anime film, `ChaO`, on August 15, 2025. Ahead of its premiere, new cuts showcasing the protagonist, Stefan, before and after his growth into a more polished man have been revealed.
Studio 4°C, founded by Tanaka Eiko, who served as line producer for Miyazaki Hayao’s beloved films `Tonari no Totoro` and `Majo no Takkyuubin`, is a creative group with a global fanbase thanks to their high-quality visuals and distinctive worlds. Their latest original anime, `ChaO`, promises a tale of love and miracles that transcends species and cultures. The film stays true to hand-drawn animation, frame by frame, depicting a fresh and charming romance between a human and a mermaid with stunningly detailed artwork and beautiful background art.
A Love Story Across Worlds
Set in a future society where humans and mermaids coexist, the story follows Stefan, a salaryman working at a shipbuilding company. One day, out of the blue, he receives a marriage proposal from Chao, a princess of the mermaid kingdom. Finding himself suddenly living with Chao, Stefan is initially bewildered. However, as he experiences Chao’s pure and sincere affection, he gradually finds himself drawn to her. The film beautifully portrays the uncertain path of their love story.
International Acclaim
Even before its public release, `ChaO` has already garnered significant international recognition. It received the Jury Award (equivalent to Grand Prix Runner-up) in the Feature Film Competition category at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2025, the oldest and one of the largest animation film festivals in the world. Furthermore, it has been nominated in the competition section of the Fantasia International Film Festival, North America’s largest genre film festival.
A Japan premiere screening was recently held, and social media has been buzzing with enthusiastic reactions. Comments like “I was completely drawn into the world of ChaO from start to finish,” “There were so many scenes that moved me, and I feel like this movie taught me something important,” and “Stefan and Chao’s story was heartwarming, tear-jerking, and exciting! It flew by in an instant! This is a movie I want to watch with someone special” fill online platforms.
One of the highlights of `ChaO` is the transformation of the protagonist, Stefan. Initially confused by the sudden marriage proposal from the mermaid princess, he gradually finds his heart moved by Chao. Director Aoki Yasuhiro explained Stefan’s character setting, saying, “As adults, there are societal constraints and things don’t always go smoothly. Such days make him feel somewhat pathetic.” The film depicts the poignant moments as Stefan and Chao slowly connect, only to drift apart due to a certain event.
The staff members also seem particularly excited about the development where the somewhat unreliable Stefan resolves himself and gains “manliness”. Character Designer and Chief Animation Director Kojima Yamato expressed, “I really want people to see the change in Stefan’s mindset, how he gradually becomes more of a ‘man’ – the gap between his initial look and this transformation.” Director Aoki echoed Kojima-san’s words, adding, “It’s natural for someone already cool to be cool. It’s much more enjoyable to see growth where someone looks cool only upon closer inspection.”
The newly released cuts perfectly illustrate the staff’s comments. Some images show Stefan looking carefree or making foolish expressions, revealing his “somewhat regrettable appearance.” In stark contrast, other cuts capture his dignified, brave expressions and sturdy form. It’s clear that Stefan’s “growth story,” spurred by his encounter with Chao, is a key aspect to look forward to.
Anime film `ChaO`, the latest work from STUDIO4°C, known for titles such as `Tekkon Kinkreet`, `Kaijuu no Kodomo`, and `Eiga Entotsu Machi no Poupelle`, is set to premiere on August 15, 2025.
Poster visual for the film ‘ChaO’
New cut from the film ‘ChaO’
New cut from the film ‘ChaO’
New cut from the film ‘ChaO’
New cut from the film ‘ChaO’
New cut from the film ‘ChaO’
New cut from the film ‘ChaO’
Production Information
| Title | Movie `ChaO` |
|---|---|
| Release Date | August 15, 2025 (Roadshow) |
Cast
| Name |
|---|
| Suzuka Ouji |
| Yamada Anna |
| Shishido Kavka |
| Umehara Yuuichirou |
| Miyake Kenta |
| Oota Shunsei |
| Tsuchiya Anna |
| Kukki! |
| Yamasato Ryoouta |
Staff
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Director | Aoki Yasuhiro |
| Character Design / Chief Animation Director | Kojima Yamato |
| Art Director | Takiguchi Hiroshi |
| Music | Muramatsu Takatsugu |
| Animation Production | STUDIO4°C |
| Distributor | Tooei |
(C)2025「ChaO」製作委員会
Written by Nakase Koutarou
_
