Makoto Shinkai, the acclaimed director of hit anime films like Your Name and Weathering with You, has confirmed that he is preparing to announce his next big project. Shinkai, known for creating original stories that blend sci-fi, romance, and fantasy elements, shared the exciting news on December 31, 2024, through a post on X (formerly Twitter). Fans can expect more details about the new film very soon.

Makoto Shinkai’s Announcement on X

In his post on X, Shinkai hinted that his upcoming film is nearly complete. The message, translated into English, revealed his plans to share the film’s title and concept as soon as possible. While no official release date has been confirmed, Shinkai’s announcement suggests that fans won’t have to wait long to learn more.

“Happy New Year! 2024 was a year I spent working on my new movie. It’s a great honor to create a new world that no one has seen before from scratch alongside my colleagues. I’ll do my best to announce [the movie] in some way this year. I hope 2025 will be a peaceful year for us all.“

What to Expect from Shinkai’s New Film

One key detail from Shinkai’s announcement is that his next project will be an original story, not an adaptation. Shinkai has built his reputation by crafting unique, emotional narratives that captivate audiences worldwide. His ability to create new worlds and stories has made him a standout figure in the anime industry.

Given Shinkai’s history, fans can expect his next film to explore familiar themes such as love, loss, and human connections. However, Shinkai is also known for blending genres, so the upcoming movie could feature elements of sci-fi, fantasy, or even something entirely unexpected.

Will the New Film Connect to Shinkai’s Previous Works?

Shinkai has a history of including cameos and subtle connections between his films. Characters from Garden of Words appeared in Your Name, and Weathering with You featured characters from Your Name. Fans are eager to see if this new film will continue that tradition or if it will stand alone like Suzume did.

Why Shinkai’s Next Film Is Highly Anticipated

Makoto Shinkai is now considered one of the most influential anime directors, alongside legends like Hayao Miyazaki. His films have resonated with audiences for their emotional depth, stunning visuals, and unique storytelling. The anticipation for his next project is a testament to his impact on the anime industry.