The animated feature film "In This Corner of the World" (released in 2016), directed and written by Katabuchi Sunao and based on the manga of the same name by Kono Fumiyo, will be screened again for a limited time at Theater Shinjuku and other locations nationwide from August 1, 2025 (Friday), the 80th anniversary of the end of the war. A new key visual drawn by Katabuchi Sunao has been released for the screening. Comments have also been received from Katabuchi Sunao, Kono Fumiyo, and Non, the actor and artist who voiced the main character Suzu.
This gem of an animated film is set in Kure, Hiroshima during the war and depicts Suzu, a woman who loses something precious but continues to look forward to life. Although it was initially released in 63 theaters, the irreplaceable everyday life and the small happiness woven within it, set in Kure, Hiroshima during the war, evoked empathy and emotion, and the total number of viewers was 2.1 million, the box office revenue exceeded 2.7 billion yen, and it became a social phenomenon screened in a total of 484 theaters.
In addition, it won a string of Japanese film awards, including the 40th Japan Academy Award for Best Animation and the No. 1 spot in the 90th Kinema Junpo Best Ten Japanese Films, which is unusual for an animated film. Its reputation has crossed the ocean and been highly praised at international film festivals. Nine years have passed since then. The story, which remains in our hearts even as time passes, will be revived on the big screen at the theater for a limited time. If Suzu were still living somewhere in this world, she would be turning 100 this year. To us who live today, at the turning point of 80 years since the end of the war. That moving moment will be brought back to the big screen. Please look forward to future updates.
Comments
◎ Voice of the main character Suzu: Non Comment
I voiced Hojo Suzu in "In This Corner of the World." My name is Non.
Suzu-san draws pictures. She eats delicious food. She does household chores, goes out with her family, and goes on dates.
As I spend my days there, the differences between modern Japan and the past become clear. And as I look at it, I feel like my heart melts away at the ordinary happiness of everyday life. I come to cherish every day.
Whether you've seen this film before or not, be sure to check it out on the big screen at the theater.
◎ Original author: Fumiyo Kono Comment
When I drew it, I hoped that even though it was a small piece, people would enjoy it for a long time.
Everyone involved in the film industry helped us to grow stronger and soar high.
Now I can only watch over them with confidence and pride.
I am filled with gratitude!
◎ Director and scriptwriter: Sunao Katabuchi Comment
I made this work because I wanted to understand the people who lived during the war. 80 years have passed since those days.
We live in a world that is connected to the past. Suzu-san may be 100 years old and still living somewhere.
Nine years after the film was first released, the world is still struggling with war.
I would like to experience once again the small corner of the world where Suzu lived and the meaning of its irreplaceable value.
Original information
"In This Corner of the World [New Edition]" Volumes 1 and 2(Author: Kono Fumiyo) Now on sale!
(Zenon Comics/Core Mix)