CoMix Wave Films to Open First Self-Run Theater Under CWF CINEMAS in 2026

CoMix Wave Films, the powerhouse anime studio behind critically acclaimed films like Your Name and Suzume is set to embark on a new venture that brings them closer to the fans and communities that cherish their work. The studio has announced plans to open its first self-operated theater under the brand CWF CINEMAS in Summer 2026, located in Nakagome, Saku City, Nagano Prefecture. This bold move aims to create a dedicated space for showcasing anime and international animation, while fostering a deeper connection with local and global audiences.

CoMix Wave Films: A Brief History

Founded in March 2007, CoMix Wave Films was originally an offshoot of CoMix Wave, a company involved in merchandising. The studio quickly rose to prominence following the success of Makoto Shinkai’s early work, The Place Promised in Our Early Days, and solidified its reputation with 5 Centimeters per Second. Over the years, CoMix Wave Films has become synonymous with high-quality, emotionally resonant anime, culminating in massive box office hits like Your Name and Suzume. Today, it stands as one of Japan’s most successful anime studios, second only to Studio Ghibli in terms of box office performance.

Why a Self-Run Theater?

The decision to open a self-run theater stems from a deeply personal place for CoMix Wave Films CEO Noritaka Kawaguchi. The inspiration came when the local theater in Saku City, where Kawaguchi often attended screenings, closed its doors in Fall 2023. This theater held special significance as it frequently hosted director talks for Makoto Shinkai’s films. Feeling a profound loss, Kawaguchi decided to fill this cultural void by establishing a new theater in its place, one that would not only preserve but also enhance the community’s connection to anime.

CWF CINEMAS: The New Brand

Under the banner of CWF CINEMAS, CoMix Wave Films is creating a brand that promises to be more than just a theater chain. The vision for CWF CINEMAS is to craft spaces that are dedicated to the celebration of animation—both local and international. These theaters will not only screen films but also serve as cultural hubs where fans can engage directly with the creators and the creative process. The brand aims to set a new standard for anime theaters in Japan, offering an experience that is both intimate and immersive.

Location Spotlight: Saku City, Nagano

Saku City in Nagano Prefecture has been carefully chosen as the location for the first CWF CINEMAS theater. This decision was influenced by Kawaguchi’s personal connection to the area and his desire to give back to the community. Saku City is known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, making it an ideal setting for a theater that aspires to be a cultural landmark. The new theater is expected to not only rejuvenate the local cinema scene but also attract visitors from other regions, thereby boosting local tourism and economy.

Leadership Behind the Project

The driving force behind this project is Noritaka Kawaguchi, the CEO of CoMix Wave Films, whose vision is to create a space that honors the legacy of anime while pushing the boundaries of what a cinema experience can be. Collaborating closely with local business owner Kenji Nakata, Kawaguchi aims to ensure that the theater is deeply rooted in the community while offering world-class facilities. This partnership is seen as a perfect blend of local knowledge and industry expertise, paving the way for a successful launch in 2026.

Connection to Makoto Shinkai

Makoto Shinkai’s work has been instrumental in shaping the identity of CoMix Wave Films, and his influence is keenly felt in the decision to open CWF CINEMAS. Shinkai’s films, which often explore themes of connection, distance, and the passage of time, have resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. The new theater will likely serve as a venue for celebrating Shinkai’s past works while also providing a platform for debuting his future projects. This connection ensures that CWF CINEMAS will be a must-visit destination for Shinkai’s fans.

Planned Features of CWF CINEMAS

CWF CINEMAS is set to offer state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring that every screening is a top-notch experience. The theater will likely feature advanced projection and sound systems designed to showcase the visual and auditory excellence of anime films. Additionally, the cinema will have spaces dedicated to special events such as director talks, fan meetings, and behind-the-scenes showcases. These features aim to create an environment where fans can fully immerse themselves in the world of animation.

Community Engagement and Events

A key aspect of CWF CINEMAS will be its commitment to community engagement. The theater plans to host a variety of events that cater to both anime enthusiasts and the general public. These events will include screenings of classic and contemporary anime, workshops on animation, and interactive sessions with directors and animators. By fostering a dialogue between creators and fans, CWF CINEMAS aims to nurture a vibrant community around anime culture.

Supporting Local Anime and Global Cinema

While the primary focus of CWF CINEMAS will be on anime, the theater will also screen international animation films. This approach not only broadens the scope of the theater’s offerings but also introduces audiences to a diverse range of storytelling styles from around the world. Moreover, CWF CINEMAS intends to support local talent by providing a platform for independent filmmakers and animators to showcase their work. This initiative will help cultivate a new generation of creators in Japan’s anime industry.

The Competitive Landscape

In the competitive world of Japanese cinema, CoMix Wave Films’ venture into theater management is both ambitious and strategic. While other studios like Studio Ghibli have their museums and branded spaces, CoMix Wave Films is taking a different approach by directly engaging with the cinematic experience. This move could set a new trend in the industry, where studios take more control over how their films are presented to audiences.

Impact on Japanese Cinema

The opening of CWF CINEMAS has the potential to significantly impact Japanese cinema, particularly in how anime is consumed and appreciated. By creating a dedicated space for anime films, CoMix Wave Films is ensuring that these works are given the attention and respect they deserve. This could lead to a resurgence of interest in anime screenings, inspiring other studios to follow suit and opening new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in the industry.

Future Expansion Plans

While the first CWF CINEMAS theater is set to open in Saku City, there are already discussions about potential expansion. If successful, the brand could see new locations across Japan, each tailored to the cultural and cinematic needs of its community. Such expansion would allow CoMix Wave Films to establish a network of theaters that collectively enhance the visibility and accessibility of anime.

CWF CINEMAS and the Global Audience

Although the primary audience for CWF CINEMAS will be local, there are plans to reach international fans as well. This could involve hosting special screenings of Japanese films with subtitles, collaborating with international festivals, and possibly even live-stream