Netflix has acquired the global rights to a new Japanese animated movie called “The Imaginary,” made by Studio Ponoc. Yoshiaki Nishimura, who founded Studio Ponoc and previously worked with the famous Studio Ghibli, expressed excitement about sharing their creative, hand-drawn animations with Netflix’s global audience, especially families and children.
Yoshiyuki Momose, who worked on Ponoc’s movie “Mary and the Witch’s Flower” and also on Ghibli’s hits like “Spirited Away,” “Princess Mononoke,” and “Porco Rosso,” is directing “The Imaginary.” The film is based on a novel by A.F. Harold and the screenplay is written by Nishimura. It tells the story of a young girl named Amanda and her imaginary friend, Rudger. Together, they embark on incredible adventures from her attic, discovering a world filled with magical beings and places. However, their adventures and friendship face a threat from a mysterious, evil force.
In other news, JKN Global Group PCL, a Thai media company that owns the Miss Universe Organization, announced it is selling half of its ownership in the pageant company. The company plans to sell a 50% stake to Mexico’s Legacy Holding Group for $16 million, a deal expected to be finalized by September. This sale is part of JKN’s efforts to reduce its debt.
The Imaginary — from Yoshiyuki Momose (Spirited Away) and Studio Ponoc — is coming later this year to Netflix.
A young girl and her imaginary companion discover a magical world of creatures and places never before seen — but a sinister force threatens to destroy it. pic.twitter.com/3uu4u1vRN5
— Netflix (@netflix) January 25, 2024
The company, led by Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, a well-known Thai media figure and transgender icon, bought the Miss Universe Organization from Endeavor’s IMG for $20 million. However, JKN faced financial difficulties after this acquisition and other content purchases, resulting in a debt of $12.4 million that was due in September. The company had to file for bankruptcy protection in November 2023. This deal with Legacy Holding Group is seen as a key step in JKN’s financial recovery. Source
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