Crunchyroll announced this week that it has acquired worldwide distribution rights to Makoto Shinkai's next feature film, partnering with Sony Pictures on the release. The agreement covers most regions globally, with the notable exception of almost all of Asia—though India is included in the deal.

Details about the film itself remain under wraps. Shinkai teased the project on social media last November, mentioning he was working on a "new film" alongside "dependable companions," but stopped short of a formal announcement. The director hasn't disclosed the title, plot, or release timeframe.

This distribution deal follows the massive success of Shinkai's Suzume (2022), which became a global phenomenon. The film debuted at #1 in Japan in November 2022 and earned 14.79 billion yen (roughly $105 million) domestically before its May 2023 close. In North America, Suzume opened with $5 million in its first weekend and eventually crossed $10 million—strong numbers for a subtitled anime film. Worldwide, it grossed over $221 million, making it one of the highest-grossing anime films ever.

Crunchyroll distributed Suzume theatrically in North America with both Japanese subtitles and an English dub, a dual-release strategy that helped reach broader audiences. The film is currently available on the platform for streaming.

Shinkai's track record—which includes Your Name (2016) and Weathering with You (2019)—positions his new work as a major event for the anime industry. His films consistently blend stunning animation with emotionally resonant storytelling and have proven their appeal to both anime fans and general audiences. The fact that Crunchyroll and Sony are co-distributing suggests the industry expects this project to repeat that crossover success.

More details should emerge as production wraps and an official announcement approaches.