Shingo Natsume’s First Original Anime Film “ghost” Announced for 2027 Release

June 20, 2025
Renowned director Shingo Natsume announces his first original theatrical anime film “ghost (working title),” set to release in 2027 with Madhouse and character designs by Natsume Ono 🎬 Shingo Natsume’s First Original Anime Film “ghost” Hits Theaters in 2027!
Acclaimed anime director Shingo Natsume (One Punch Man, Sonny Boy, ACCA) is set to make his original feature-length theatrical debut with a new anime film titled “ghost” (working title)—scheduled for release in 2027!
🎨 A newly released teaser visual features the protagonist Nike, a mysterious girl holding a glass sword, standing under a starry sky surrounded by vibrant flowers—symbolizing a poetic and emotional journey ahead.
🧠 The story explores the “ghost within the heart”—those unspeakable but real emotions that linger inside us. Nike, a brave yet lonely girl, defies the absurdities of the world to protect the “starry sky,” in a tale of self-discovery and emotional transformation.
🎥 Animation will be handled by MADHOUSE, known for masterpieces like Paprika, Millennium Actress, and Summer Wars. The team also includes:
Original Character Design: Natsume Ono (House of Five Leaves)
Character Design (Adaptation): Norifumi Kugai
Script/Direction: Shingo Natsume
Production: Bandai Namco Filmworks × MADHOUSE
🌍 Following his visionary work on Sonny Boy, which gained international acclaim at Annecy, Natsume now aims to “capture the essence of our times” with this ambitious and emotionally rich feature.
📍 A poster of “ghost” will be showcased at the Japan Annex booth at Annecy International Animation Festival, with a pitch session to follow. Stay tuned for more global updates!