Yasuhiro Aoki directs the “pure love story” about humans and mermaids
Kodoani.com – During the press conference announcing the 2025-2026 lineup, Toei revealed information about the new animated film titled ChaOproduced by Studio 4°C and scheduled for release this summer. This is a special project that Studio 4°C has been quietly implementing for the past seven years, with more than 100,000 drawings done entirely by hand, proving the enthusiasm and meticulousness in each frame.
ChaO takes place in a futuristic society where humans and mermaids live together. The film revolves around Stephen, an ordinary office worker, and Chao, a princess from the mermaid kingdom. An unexpected incident happened when Chao proposed to Stephen, leading to a pure, gentle but equally interesting and magical love story.
The film's production team includes experienced names. Yasuhiro Aoki, who has worked on works such as Kimagure Robot and Tweeny Witches, will take on the role of director. Hirokazu Kojima, best known for Deadman Wonderland and Coyote Ragtime Show, will be responsible for character design and chief animation director. Hiroshi Takiguchi, who has left his mark through works such as Ajin and The Garden of Words, takes on the role of art director, helping to create a lively and engaging world for the series. ChaO. The film will be distributed by Toei, bringing to the audience a product that is refined in both content and image.
According to producer Eiko Tanaka, the film is not simply a romantic love story, but also a work of art that seamlessly combines a unique storytelling style and traditional hand-drawn features. ChaO promises to bring audiences an animation experience that is both familiar and new, clearly portraying the relationship between humans and mythical creatures in a creative future world.
