Mamoru Hosoda’s ‘SCARLET’ Sets IMAX Debut: Tickets Now on Sale

Posted on by

Fans of visionary director Mamoru Hosoda have a new reason to celebrate as tickets have officially gone on sale for his latest animated masterpiece, SCARLET. Released by Sony Pictures Classics, the film is set to make a grand entrance on the big screen this February with an exclusive engagement in IMAX.

A Quest Across Time and Life

Written and directed by Academy Award nominee Mamoru Hosoda (Mirai, Belle), SCARLET is described as a “time-bending animated adventure.” The story follows the titular character, a medieval-era princess and skilled sword fighter, on a perilous quest to avenge her father’s death.

After a mission goes wrong, Scarlet finds herself gravely injured in the “Otherworld”—a mystical realm existing between life and death. There, she encounters an idealistic young man from the present day who helps her heal and offers a perspective on a future free from the cycle of rage. As she prepares for a final confrontation with her father’s killer, Scarlet must decide if she can find a purpose in life beyond the pursuit of revenge.

Award Season Buzz and Critical Acclaim

SCARLET arrives with significant momentum from the international film festival circuit. It held its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival and saw its North American debut at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) before heading to the New York Film Festival (NYFF).

The film is already being recognized as one of the standout animated features of the year. It has secured three nominations for the 2026 Annie Awards, including:

  • Best Feature (Independent)

  • Best Direction (Feature)

  • Best Writing (Feature)

Production and Distribution

The film is a collaborative effort between Studio CHIZU (co-founded by Hosoda and producer Yuichiro Saito), Nippon TV, and Sony Pictures, who co-produced and co-financed the project. Sony Pictures Classics is handling the domestic release, while Sony Pictures Releasing International will distribute the film globally.

How to Watch

Theatergoers can now secure their seats via the official IMAX website. The English Dubbed release rollout is as follows:

  • February 13, 2026: Nationwide expansion in standard theaters (dubbed versions available).

With Hosoda’s track record for creating emotionally resonant and visually stunning worlds, SCARLET is shaping up to be a must-watch cinematic event of the winter season.

About John Schwarz

John is the Chief Editor and Founder of Bubbleblabber.com. While at first a part-time project, Bubbleblabber quickly grew into a full-fledged operation and officially became a company in 2014. When John isn't running a business full-time, he likes to go to concerts with your mother.