GKIDS brings Panda! Go Panda! to North America
GKIDS is looking to bring the former work of the legendary Studio Ghibli co-founders to theaters and streaming platforms.
When we think of family-friendly films, Studio Ghibli immediately comes to mind. Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki have made indelible contributions to Japanese anime and animation in general. GKIDS, the respected publisher and distributor of anime for adult and family audiences, announced today that it has acquired the rights to Panda! Go Panda!
A pre-Studio Ghibli success
Panda! Go Panda! is a lovely classic from the early careers of two animation giants prior to co-founding the award-winning Studio Ghibli. It is directed by Isao Takahata and based on an idea by Hayao Miyazaki. TMS Entertainment produced the film, which was released in 1972 during the height of the “panda fever,” after the donation of a pair of large pandas from China to Japan’s Ueno Zoo.
We are introduced to Mimiko’s narrative in this fantastic drama. Mimiko is a happy little girl who is left alone when her grandma goes on a trip. When Panny Panda and his father Papanda arrive at Mimiko’s house, she accepts them as her new family. Mimiko realizes the difficulties of caring for her new furry buddies, which leads to a series of adventures.
“Besides acting as a vital landmark in animation history, Panda! Go Panda! is an exuberant, feel-good story that will have you humming the theme song for days,” said GKIDS President David Jesteadt.
“The film has never looked better, and we are thrilled to be able to share it with audiences more widely for a huge anniversary milestone,” he added.
Theatrical and streaming release dates were not announced. We’ll let you know when we learn more. So stay tuned to Game Freaks 365.
