Acclaimed director Gorō Taniguchi, known for his work on hit series like Code Geass and the successful film One Piece Film Red, enthusiastically announces his new project: Etoile Blooms in Paris (Paris ni Saku Étoile). This original anime film, produced under the Arvo Animation banner, marks a highly anticipated collaboration between Taniguchi and Katsuya Kondō, a master character designer with an impressive career at Studio Ghibli, including classics like Kiki's Delivery Service and My Neighbor Totoro. The film is the result of years of dedicated work and promises to captivate audiences with its moving narrative and visually stunning aesthetics.
A Story of Dreams in 20th-Century Paris in Etoile Blooms in Paris
The story centers on two young Japanese women pursuing their dreams despite the inherent difficulties of the early 20th century. Fujiko, a talented aspiring painter, and Chizuru, a passionate classical ballet dancer, meet by chance in Yokohama and later reunite in the vibrant city of Paris, where they will work together to achieve their goals. The central premise of the film, evoked by its tagline "I want to bloom, in this city," explores universal themes such as perseverance, the power of dreams, the pursuit of success, and the importance of friendship in a fascinating historical context.
The Team Behind the Scenes of Etoile Blooms in Paris
The screenplay was masterfully written by Reiko Yoshida, known for her work on Violet Evergarden and Kaleido Star, while Yū Yamashita is in charge of adapting Kondō's original designs for animation. The promising and emotional soundtrack will be handled by the experienced Takayuki Hattori (Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin, Martian Successor Nadesico), who will provide a memorable score to enrich the cinematic experience. The production team includes key figures such as Seiichi Shirato (researcher), Yūji Kaneko (art director), Akiko Shibata (colorist), and Yuriko Chiba (animation director). Distribution will be handled by Shochiku.
The Voice Cast and the Search for Purity in Etoile Blooms in Paris
To bring the main character Fujiko to life, Ami Tōma (Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Chihayafuru -Meguri-) was chosen. Taniguchi emphasized the importance of finding an actress with "purity, without artifice, a real size, charm, and a central sense" for the role, expressing his gratitude for having found the perfect person in Tōma. The actress herself commented on the challenge and enjoyment of playing a character so different from her usual roles.
Seven Years of Dedication for Etoile Blooms in Paris
The film has been a project that has been in development for seven years, with Kondō initially rejecting the proposal before being persuaded by producer Shigeru Sugimori, who simply asked him for "an idea in a drawing." Sugimori's persistence ultimately led to a prolonged and significant collaboration, culminating in a meticulously developed film. Director Taniguchi has expressed his gratitude to the team and hopes that the audience will enjoy the final result.
