Sumikko Gurashi Film 5: Neko Takes Lead in 2027
Exciting news for fans of San-X's Sumikko Gurashi franchise! A fifth anime film is officially announced for a 2027 release, promising another heartwarming cinematic experience. While the title is still under wraps, the biggest reveal is that the story will center on the beloved shy cat character, Neko, as the protagonist. This highly anticipated announcement was accompanied by a charming visual drawn by creator Yuri Yokomizo, hinting at the gentle adventure awaiting Neko and her friends.
Neko Steps Into the Spotlight
The decision to feature Neko as the central character for the 2027 Sumikko Gurashi film is a thrilling development for long-time admirers. Neko, known for her endearing shyness and quiet search for comfort in corners, embodies much of what makes the franchise so special. Her journey as the protagonist offers a unique opportunity to explore her world more deeply, promising a narrative filled with the tender moments and relatable feelings that Sumikko Gurashi is celebrated for. The visual by Yuri Yokomizo beautifully captures the essence of the Sumikko Gurashi world, building immense anticipation for the film's full reveal. Fans are already eagerly counting down to 2027 to witness Neko's grand cinematic adventure.
The Endearing World of Sumikko Gurashi
Since its introduction in 2012, Sumikko Gurashi has carved out a special niche with its collection of "slightly negative" characters who cherish finding cozy corners. This unique concept resonates broadly, celebrating quiet comfort and gentle companionship. The core cast includes: Shirokuma, a polar bear sensitive to cold; Penguin?, a penguin unsure of its identity; Tonkatsu, a pork cutlet piece left uneaten; Neko, the shy cat taking center stage; and Tokage, a dinosaur discreetly hiding his true nature. Each character’s distinct personality contributes to a universe that values acceptance and finding one's peaceful spot, making them relatable and incredibly charming to audiences of all ages.
A Legacy of Cinematic Success
The Sumikko Gurashi anime film series boasts a remarkable history of box office triumphs, consistently enchanting viewers with its unique storytelling. The first film, "Sumikkogurashi – Good to be in the corner," premiered in Japan in November 2019. It garnered widespread acclaim and commercial success, selling 1.22 million tickets and earning 1.4 billion yen (about US$12.8 million) by February 2020. This inaugural success was further recognized with the Best Animation of the Year award at the 29th Annual Japan Movie Critics Awards.
Subsequent films continued this impressive run. "Eiga Sumikko Gurashi: Aoi Tsukiyo no Mahō no Ko," the second installment, opened in November 2021, selling approximately 200,000 tickets for about 250 million yen (US$2.22 million) in its first three days. The third film, "Eiga Sumikko Gurashi: Tsugihagi Kōjō no Fushigi na Ko," released in November 2023, saw 192,300 tickets sold and 242,553,320 yen (US$1.63 million) earned in its opening weekend.
The fourth anime film, "Eiga Sumikko Gurashi: Sora no Ōkoku to Futari no Ko," opened in October 2025, securing the #4 spot. It sold 150,000 tickets for 183,974,840 yen (US$1.19 million) in its first three days. Including the Culture Day holiday, its four-day total reached 208,000 tickets and 253 million yen (US$1.64 million). This consistent performance highlights the enduring popularity and strong appeal of the Sumikko Gurashi films.
Expanding Beyond Films
The Sumikko Gurashi franchise has skillfully diversified its presence beyond the big screen. Its first-ever television anime series premiered in October 2023, bringing the beloved characters to a broader audience on a regular basis. Adding to its multimedia portfolio, a charming puppet musical ran in Tokyo from August to September 2024, offering a unique live adaptation. Furthermore, a new series of delightful anime shorts, "Sumikko Gurashi: Koko ga Ochitsukun Desu," debuted in April 2025 as part of NTV's ZIP! morning variety program's "ZIP! 1-Minute Anime" segment. These various endeavors underscore the franchise's widespread appeal and its commitment to engaging fans across different entertainment platforms.
A Bright Future for Sumikko Gurashi
With a proven track record of cinematic success and a thriving presence across television and live events, the Sumikko Gurashi franchise is set for a vibrant future. The announcement of the fifth anime film in 2027, featuring Neko as its central figure, is a testament to the enduring charm and beloved nature of these characters. Fans worldwide eagerly anticipate this next chapter, ready to embrace another heartwarming journey into the cozy, comforting world of Sumikko Gurashi.
