It is uncommon to regularly witness the adaptation of anime from Western source material. However, an animated movie based on the critically acclaimed novel ‘Imaginary’ is currently in production, which might offer anime enthusiasts a truly exceptional experience.
‘Imaginary’ is a British children’s novel written by A. F. Harrold and illustrated by Emily Gravett. Since its release in 2014, the novel has received critical acclaim from notable sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian (child review), Booklist, Financial Times, The Horn Book Magazine, and Kirkus Reviews, among others.
It also secured the British Book Design and Production Awards Children’s Trade Book Award and the British Book Design and Production Awards Book of the Year Award in 2015. Studio Ponoc is producing an animated movie based on the novel, titled ‘Yaneura no Rudger’ (Rudger in the Attic) in Japan.
The Imaginary Movie Release Date
According to the official Studio Ponoc website, the Imaginary movie is scheduled to premiere exclusively in Japan on December 15, 2023. This release date was reaffirmed by the most recent trailer of the movie.
Originally intended for a third quadrant release in 2022, the date was postponed primarily due to challenges faced by the production team in implementing cutting-edge techniques and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The movie is anticipated to be released worldwide in early 2024.
The Imaginary Movie New Trailer
On August 21, Studio Ponoc unveiled a new 90-second trailer for the Imaginary movie. This visually captivating trailer offered a glimpse of the meticulously detailed and animated movie, leaving anime enthusiasts in a state of excitement.
The Imaginary Movie Staff and Cast
Studio Ponoc is overseeing the production of the movie, with Yoshiyuki Momose serving as the director. Yoshiaki Nishimura, renowned for his contributions to Studio Ghibli projects and Ponoc’s ‘Mary and the Witch’s Flower,’ is responsible for producing the film. The trailer has already showcased their commitment to delivering uncompromising quality.
The Imaginary Movie also boasts an impressive cast, entrusted with bringing the characters to life:
| Voice Actor/Actress | Character |
| Kokoro Terada | Rudger |
| Rio Suzuki | Amanda |
| Riisa Naka | Emily |
| Sakura Ando | Lizzie |
| Takayuki Yamada | Jinzan |
| Atsuko Takahata | Downbeat Grandma |
| Issey Ogata | Mr. Bunting |
Plot of The Imaginary Movie
The movie revolves around Amanda and her imaginary friend Rudger, who is visible only to her. Their world is disrupted when Mr. Bunting, an imaginary hunter, sets his sights on capturing Rudger. As Rudger embarks on a journey to save himself, he must navigate the real world and locate Amanda before fading away.
With its captivating plot, remarkable characters, and breathtaking animation, the ‘Imaginary’ movie is undoubtedly a cinematic event that no anime enthusiast should miss. As the release date approaches, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates and news, ensuring they are primed to witness this extraordinary adaptation of a beloved literary treasure on the silver screen.
