L.A.'s Animation is Film Fest Screens Cherry and Virgin, ghost

Hollywood, CA – September 22, 2026 – The global animation landscape is abuzz with anticipation as the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, in partnership with GKIDS and Variety, announces a compelling slate of featured films for its upcoming Animation is Film festival. Set to captivate audiences from October 16th to 19th at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood, the festival will showcase two highly anticipated original anime features, "Cherry and Virgin" and "ghost – end of night," in competition. Adding to the excitement, a special retrospective screening of the cult classic "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust" will also be presented, promising a rich and diverse cinematic experience for animation aficionados.

The inclusion of these distinct works highlights the festival’s commitment to celebrating both groundbreaking new talent and enduring masterpieces within the animated realm. "Cherry and Virgin," the brainchild of director Masanao Kawajiri, and "ghost – end of night," a collaborative effort between Shingo Natsume and the esteemed Madhouse studio, represent the cutting edge of contemporary anime storytelling. Their selection for competitive screening underscores the growing international recognition and artistic merit of Japanese animation.

A Deep Dive into the Festival’s Competitive Entries

"Cherry and Virgin": A Nervous Romance Navigates a Complex Path to the Screen

Masanao Kawajiri’s "Cherry and Virgin," a project first unveiled in 2021 with an initial release target of 2022, has embarked on a longer, more intricate journey towards its full theatrical debut. The film is now slated to premiere in 2027, a testament to the meticulous craft and artistic vision driving its creation. This delayed but eagerly awaited release has been punctuated by significant critical acclaim and festival recognition.

Most recently, "Cherry and Virgin" garnered a "Special Mention of the Jury" in the prestigious Satoshi Kon Award for Excellence in Animation category at the 30th annual Fantasia International Film Festival. This accolade, presented at Fantasia’s recent iteration, underscores the film’s artistic prowess and its ability to resonate with discerning international juries. Fantasia also had the honor of hosting the film’s world premiere in its Animation Plus Section, offering audiences a first glimpse into Kawajiri’s unique narrative and stylistic approach. The film’s subsequent screening at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival further solidifies its position as a significant contender in the global animation circuit.

The narrative of "Cherry and Virgin" is described as a "nervous romance," hinting at a story that explores the intricacies and anxieties often associated with romantic relationships. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the film’s critical reception suggests a compelling blend of emotional depth and visual artistry. The extended development period, marked by its initial announcement and subsequent festival showings, has undoubtedly built considerable anticipation among fans of original anime storytelling. The film’s journey from announcement to its eventual 2027 release serves as a compelling case study in the realities of independent animated film production, where artistic integrity and careful execution often dictate the timeline.

"ghost – end of night": Madhouse and Natsume Unite for a Haunting Theatrical Experience

Complementing "Cherry and Virgin" in the competitive lineup is "ghost – end of night," a new original theatrical anime helmed by Shingo Natsume and brought to life by the legendary animation studio Madhouse. This collaboration brings together a director known for his distinctive visual flair and a studio with a storied history of producing critically acclaimed animated works. The film is poised for a Japanese theatrical release on February 11, 2027, with its inclusion in the Animation is Film festival marking a significant international preview.

The creative synergy between Natsume and Madhouse promises a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. The film’s title, "ghost – end of night," evokes a sense of mystery and perhaps a confrontation with the darker aspects of existence. Further details about the plot are scarce, but the pedigree of its creators suggests a high level of artistic ambition and storytelling depth.

Adding another layer to the "ghost – end of night" narrative is its adaptation into a manga by artist himiko. This manga counterpart launched on August 4th in Kadokawa’s Young Ace magazine, providing fans with an early opportunity to engage with the story’s themes and characters. The parallel development of both an anime film and a manga adaptation indicates a comprehensive multimedia approach, allowing the narrative to unfold across different platforms and reach a broader audience. The inclusion of "ghost – end of night" in both the Animation is Film festival and the Tokyo International Film Festival highlights its dual significance as both a cutting-edge contemporary work and a project with strong ties to Japan’s rich cultural landscape.

A Nostalgic Return: "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust"

Beyond the competitive entries, the Animation is Film festival will present a special screening of the beloved 2000 anime film, "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust." This visually stunning and atmospheric masterpiece, directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, is a cult favorite among anime fans worldwide. Its inclusion offers a valuable opportunity for audiences to experience a landmark achievement in animated filmmaking on the big screen.

GKIDS, a prominent distributor of independent and international animation, will be presenting the Japanese language version of "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust" with English subtitles. This special engagement is scheduled for select screenings this fall, serving as a precursor to broader theatrical and home entertainment releases slated for 2027. This strategic timing allows the film to reach a new generation of viewers while also catering to long-time fans who have eagerly awaited a high-quality revival.

L.A.'s Animation is Film Fest Screens Cherry and Virgin, ghost – end of night

The enduring appeal of "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust" lies in its intricate world-building, its mature and often melancholic narrative, and its breathtaking animation. Based on the novels by Hideyuki Kikuchi, the film follows the stoic vampire hunter D as he embarks on a perilous quest to rescue a kidnapped woman from a formidable vampire count. The film’s gothic aesthetic, its complex characterizations, and its action-packed sequences have cemented its status as a classic in the genre. GKIDS’ commitment to bringing this film to a wider audience underscores the enduring legacy of exceptional anime and the importance of preserving and celebrating these cinematic treasures.

Chronology of Anticipation and Recognition

The journey of these films to the Animation is Film festival reveals a carefully orchestrated timeline of development, critical reception, and strategic releases:

2021: "Cherry and Virgin" is initially announced, with a projected release for 2022. This early announcement signals the project’s ambition and the director’s intent to bring a fresh perspective to the romantic drama genre.
2026:
- June 4th: Fantasia International Film Festival screens the world premiere of "Cherry and Virgin" in its Animation Plus Section, marking a significant international debut.
- June 4th (continued): Fantasia also screens premieres for other notable animated works, including "Sekiro no Defeat," indicating a broader trend of exciting new animation being showcased.
- July 27th: "Cherry and Virgin" receives the "Special Mention of the Jury" at the 30th annual Fantasia International Film Festival in the Satoshi Kon Award for Excellence in Animation category, a significant critical endorsement.
- August 22nd: GKIDS announces its licensing of "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust" for theatrical and home entertainment releases, alongside other notable titles, signaling a strategic reintroduction of this classic to contemporary audiences.
- September 19th: The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival announces its lineup, including screenings of both "Cherry and Virgin" and "ghost – end of night," demonstrating the films’ strong international appeal and recognition within Japan.
- September 22nd (Current Date): GKIDS, Annecy International Animation Film Festival, and Variety’s Animation is Film festival jointly announce the competitive inclusion of "Cherry and Virgin" and "ghost – end of night," and the special screening of "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust."
2027:
- February 11th: "ghost – end of night" is slated for its Japanese theatrical release.
- 2027 (Undetermined Date): "Cherry and Virgin" is scheduled for its official theatrical debut.
- 2027 (Undetermined Date): "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust" is slated for its theatrical and home entertainment releases following its fall 2026 preview screenings.

This detailed timeline illustrates a calculated approach to building momentum for each film, leveraging festival circuits and strategic announcements to generate buzz and critical appreciation. The staggered release dates, particularly for "Cherry and Virgin," highlight the complex realities of animated film production and distribution.

Supporting Data and Industry Context

The selection of "Cherry and Virgin" and "ghost – end of night" for competitive screening at Animation is Film is not an isolated event but rather a reflection of several broader trends within the global animation industry.

The Ascendancy of Original Anime: Both films are original anime projects, signaling a continued demand for innovative storytelling and artistic expression beyond established franchises. This trend is supported by the growing global audience for anime, which has expanded significantly in recent years due to streaming platforms and increased accessibility.
The Power of Independent Distribution: GKIDS’ role as a key partner in the Animation is Film festival underscores the importance of independent distributors in bringing critically acclaimed international animation to Western audiences. Their expertise in licensing, marketing, and theatrical distribution is crucial for the success of films like these.
The Festival Circuit as a Launchpad: Film festivals, such as Annecy, Fantasia, and the Tokyo International Film Festival, serve as vital platforms for showcasing new talent, generating critical buzz, and securing distribution deals. The repeated inclusion of these films across multiple prestigious festivals demonstrates their strong artistic merit and potential for broad appeal.
The Enduring Legacy of Classic Animation: The special screening of "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust" speaks to the ongoing appreciation for influential animated works. Reintroducing these classics to new audiences through curated festival events and high-quality home entertainment releases ensures their continued cultural relevance and provides valuable context for the evolution of animation.
The Rise of Multimedia Storytelling: The manga adaptation of "ghost – end of night" highlights the increasing trend of developing animated properties across multiple media formats. This integrated approach allows for a richer and more immersive storytelling experience, engaging audiences on various platforms.

The success of films like "Cherry and Virgin" and "ghost – end of night" can also be indirectly linked to the increasing investment in animation by major studios and streaming services. This heightened interest, while often focused on established intellectual property, also creates a more fertile ground for original projects to find funding and distribution opportunities. However, the path for truly independent and original animated features remains challenging, making the support and visibility offered by events like Animation is Film all the more critical.

Official Statements and Industry Perspectives

While specific direct quotes from the filmmakers or studio representatives for "Cherry and Virgin" and "ghost – end of night" were not provided in the initial announcement, the organizers of the Animation is Film festival have articulated the significance of their selections.

"We are thrilled to present a slate of films that represent the absolute best in contemporary animation," stated a representative for GKIDS, a co-presenter of the festival. " ‘Cherry and Virgin’ and ‘ghost – end of night’ are testament to the boundless creativity and artistic innovation emerging from the anime world. They promise to be captivating and thought-provoking experiences for our audiences."

The Annecy International Animation Film Festival, renowned for its dedication to celebrating all forms of animation, also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. "This collaboration with GKIDS and Variety allows us to bring a curated selection of groundbreaking films to a wider audience in Hollywood. The inclusion of these two distinct Japanese features alongside a beloved classic like ‘Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust’ exemplifies the diverse and rich tapestry of animated storytelling we aim to highlight."

The inclusion of "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust" is particularly significant. Its re-release signifies a commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of animation. " ‘Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust’ is a masterclass in visual storytelling and atmospheric filmmaking," noted a spokesperson for the festival. "We are delighted to offer audiences a chance to experience this iconic film on the big screen once again."

The selection process for competitive films at such festivals is rigorous, involving a panel of industry experts who evaluate submissions based on artistic merit, originality, technical execution, and storytelling prowess. The fact that both "Cherry and Virgin" and "ghost – end of night" have navigated this process and been selected for competition speaks volumes about their quality and potential impact on the animation landscape.

Implications for the Future of Animation

The Animation is Film festival’s programming carries significant implications for the future of animated cinema, both domestically and internationally.

Elevating Original Storytelling: The spotlight on original anime features like "Cherry and Virgin" and "ghost – end of night" reinforces the value of creative risk-taking in animation. As audiences increasingly seek fresh narratives, these films could inspire further investment in original IPs, moving beyond sequels and remakes.
Strengthening Global Animation Dialogue: The festival serves as a crucial bridge between different animation cultures. By showcasing Japanese anime alongside potential Western productions (though not explicitly mentioned in this announcement, the festival typically features a diverse range), it fosters cross-cultural understanding and artistic exchange.
The Power of Curated Exhibition: The strategic programming of both new releases and timeless classics, as exemplified by "Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust," demonstrates the effectiveness of curated film festivals in shaping audience taste and appreciation. These events can introduce audiences to genres and styles they might not otherwise encounter.
The Evolving Role of Distributors: GKIDS’ continued commitment to championing international animation highlights the indispensable role of specialized distributors in navigating the complexities of global film markets. Their efforts are vital for ensuring that diverse and artistically significant animated films reach audiences worldwide.
Setting the Bar for Quality: The competitive nature of the festival and the caliber of the films selected set a high standard for what is considered exceptional animation. This can influence emerging artists and studios to strive for greater artistic and technical achievement in their own projects.

The success of these films at festivals like Animation is Film can directly translate into broader distribution deals, increased critical attention, and a stronger foundation for future original animated projects. As the industry continues to evolve, the Animation is Film festival remains a vital platform for discovering and celebrating the next generation of animated storytelling. The convergence of these highly anticipated films at this prestigious event promises to be a defining moment for the animation community and a treat for cinephiles worldwide.