Whisper of the Heart is heading back to UK cinemas this September, giving Studio Ghibli fans another opportunity to experience the beloved 1995 animated classic on the big screen. According to Anime News Network [Anime News Network], GKIDS will release the film in a new 4K remaster, beginning with a limited IMAX run before expanding to cinemas nationwide.
The film will open on UK IMAX screens on September 16, 2026, followed by a wider theatrical release on September 18. Both English-dubbed and Japanese-language subtitled screenings will be available, with tickets for selected showings already listed through GKIDS.
Studio Ghibli’s Beloved Coming-of-Age Story Returns
Directed by Yoshifumi Kondō, Whisper of the Heart follows Shizuku, a young girl searching for her creative purpose after a chance encounter with a mysterious cat. Her journey leads her to Seiji, an ambitious boy pursuing his own dreams, and to The Baron, the antique cat figurine who inspires her imagination.
The film was based on Aoi Hiiragi’s manga, with Hayao Miyazaki contributing the screenplay and storyboards. GKIDS describes the movie as a “heartwarming, coming-of-age classic,” while its themes of creativity, ambition and self-discovery have helped it remain one of Studio Ghibli’s most cherished films.
The UK release also follows the recent cinema screenings of Kiki’s Delivery Service, continuing GKIDS’ push to bring classic Studio Ghibli films to new theatrical audiences.
