Kiki's Delivery Service will make its IMAX debut in the U.K. and Ireland on August 21, 2026, marking the start of Gkids' distribution of the Studio Ghibli film library in these territories. This move includes theatrical, home video, TV, and digital rights for the entire library of 23 titles.
Gkids Expands Studio Ghibli's Reach
On July 2, 2026, Gkids announced it has acquired the rights to distribute Studio Ghibli's extensive catalog in the U.K. and Ireland. This acquisition adds significant value to Gkids' portfolio, which now includes critically acclaimed films such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke.
The rollout of this collection is highly anticipated, as most of these films have had limited availability in the region for several years. Gkids aims to reintroduce these beloved classics to a new generation of fans.
Notable Titles in the Studio Ghibli Library
The Studio Ghibli library includes several Oscar-winning and nominated films, which have garnered a loyal following worldwide. Key titles in the collection are:
- Spirited Away (Oscar Winner)
- The Boy and the Heron
- Howl's Moving Castle (Oscar Nominated)
- The Tale of The Princess Kaguya (Oscar Nominated)
- The Wind Rises (Oscar Nominated)
- When Marnie Was There (Oscar Nominated)
- My Neighbor Totoro
- Ponyo
- Castle in the Sky
With films like Ghost in the Shell 2 and Your Name also gaining traction, the anime genre is experiencing a renaissance in international markets.
Future of Anime in Theaters
The acquisition by Gkids signifies a broader trend of increasing interest in anime within mainstream cinema. As audiences crave diverse storytelling, films like Kiki's Delivery Service are poised to capture the attention of both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike.
This IMAX release is not just a nostalgic trip for older viewers but also an opportunity for younger audiences to experience the magic of Studio Ghibli on the big screen.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Variety. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
