HBO Max is set to become an even bigger hub for anime fans in the United States. Warner Bros. Discovery’s streaming platform has expanded its partnership with GKIDS to bring an impressive lineup of nearly 20 anime films to its library, beginning September 1. This collection not only complements HBO Max’s existing Studio Ghibli catalog but also introduces several highly anticipated North American streaming debuts and upgraded 4K versions of beloved titles.
The initial wave of films launching on September 1 includes Makoto Shinkai’s Children Who Chase Lost Voices, The Place Promised in Our Early Days, and the globally celebrated Your Name in its 4K streaming debut. Other highlights include Fireworks from Akiyuki Shinbo and Noboyuki Takeuchi, Fortune Favors Lady Nikuko directed by Ayumu Watanabe, Ghost Cat Anzu by Yôko Kuno and Nobuhiro Yamashita, Lonely Castle in the Mirror by Keiichi Hara, and Hideaki Anno’s Love & Pop. Several of these films are arriving on U.S. streaming for the first time.
Later in 2025 and into 2026, subscribers can look forward to an even richer selection. This includes Mamoru Oshii’s cult classic Angel’s Egg in both its North American and 4K streaming debut, Naoko Yamada’s emotionally resonant Liz and the Blue Bird and The Colors Within, Masaaki Yuasa’s wildly inventive Lu Over the Wall and Mind Game, Satoshi Kon’s legendary Millennium Actress and Perfect Blue in 4K, Hideaki Anno’s Shin Godzilla, and a suite of Mamoru Hosoda favorites such as Summer Wars, The Boy and the Beast, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, and Wolf Children, all arriving in stunning 4K quality.
Royce Battleman, EVP of Global Content Acquisitions at Warner Bros. Discovery, expressed pride in the deal, highlighting HBO Max’s dedication to delivering world-class Japanese animation to audiences. Dave Jesteadt, President of GKIDS, echoed this excitement, emphasizing the streamer’s commitment to showcasing award-winning and genre-defining works that align perfectly with GKIDS’ mission.
With this partnership, HBO Max solidifies its position as one of the most important destinations for anime streaming in the U.S., giving fans unprecedented access to masterpieces from some of the medium’s most visionary creators. Whether viewers are looking to revisit classics in breathtaking 4K or discover modern gems for the first time, this lineup promises an unmissable anime experience.
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