We’ve known for awhile that Anime Limited, in partnership with North American distributor GKIDS, were planning a cinema release of the 1995 Studio Ghibli film Whisper of the Heart due to its inclusion in previous press releases, but today the distributors have confirmed that the film will be screened in cinemas across the UK in both IMAX and 4K this September. Tickets for Whisper of the Heart are also available to book online through the official website.
Just like with the cinematic re-release of Kiki’s Delivery Service this month, the film Whisper of the Heart will use a new 4K remaster and be a staggered release in the UK. The film will debut first in IMAX at participating locations on the 16th September 2026 and will then receive a wider cinematic release in 4K from 18th September 2026. Both versions of the film are expected to be available to watch in English and Japanese (with English subtitles), but language availability will vary depending on the cinema chain.
Synopsis: A chance encounter with a mysterious cat sends Shizuku, a girl with her head in the clouds, on a quest for her true talent. Together with Seiji, a boy determined to follow his dreams, and enchanted by The Baron, an antique cat figurine who guides her to listen to the whispers of her heart, Shizuku embarks on a life-changing adventure that takes her beyond the boundaries of her imagination. Based on a screenplay and storyboards from Hayao Miyazaki, WHISPER OF THE HEART is a precious gem in the Studio Ghibli catalog, directed by veteran animator Yoshifumi Kondo.
As a reminder GKIDS acquired the UK distribution license to all Studio Ghibli films following the insolvency of Elysian Film Group and have partnered with Anime Limited to bring Whisper of the Heart (and Kiki’s Delivery Service) to the big screen in the UK and also have plans for Arrietty.
In the meantime UK cinema tickets for Whisper of the Heart and Kiki’s Delivery Service are currently available to book online through the official website. Kiki’s Delivery Service is available to watch in IMAX right now with a wider cinematic release in 4K to follow on 28th August 2026. Whisper of the Heart meanwhile will be available in IMAX from 16th September 2026 with the 4K version tof ollow on 18th September 2026. Both films are available to watch in dub and sub format at particpating cinema chains.
UK Release Date Trailer:
