Studio Ghibli’s film Ocean Waves will be screened nationwide for a limited three-week run starting on July 4th (Friday).
Based on Saeko Himuro’s novel of the same name, the 1993 animated TV special was later re-broadcast in 2011 on “Friday Roadshow” and received a limited theater release in the United States, becoming a beloved work despite its limited viewing opportunities.
The film follows Takuto Mori, who graduates from high school in Kochi and moves to Tokyo for university, and his relationships with the free-spirited transfer student Rikako Muto and Takuto’s close friend Matsuno, who is also drawn to Rikako. The story weaves together present-day university life and nostalgic memories from middle and high school. The film is noted for its use of “normalcy” as a keyword, beautifully depicting the 1990s cityscape with black-and-white visuals and flashbacks. It is also recognized as a work created primarily by young Studio Ghibli staff of the time.
After its limited-time screening at Bunkamura Le Cinema in Shibuya, Tokyo, in 2024, which became a hot topic due to its long run and sold-out shows, a nationwide screening has now been confirmed. A campaign to commemorate the first nationwide release, including original attendee gifts, will be announced shortly.
Ocean Waves
Release Information
Release Date: July 4, 2025 (Friday) for a 3-week limited screening
Distributor: Filmarks
*The screening theaters will be announced later on the official Filmarks Revival Screening Twitter (@Filmarks_ticket).
Film Information
Year: 1993
Country: Japan
Runtime: 72 minutes
Original Story: Saeko Himuro
Screenplay: Kaori Nakamura
Director: Tomomitsu Mochizuki
Music: Shigeru Nagata
Theme Song: Yoko Sakamoto
Produced by: Studio Ghibli’s Young Production Team
Voice Cast: Nobuo Tobita, Yoko Sakamoto, Toshihiko Seki
