by Anime fans in Japan have something special to look forward to this spring. The 3rd Domannaka Anime Film Festival will take place in Nagoya from May 15 to May 21, 2026, bringing together legendary creators, voice actors, and industry veterans for a week of classic anime screenings and special talk events.
The festival will be held at Midland Square Cinema, a major movie theater located near Nagoya Station. Since its launch in May 2024, the Domannaka Anime Film Festival has become a unique event celebrating influential anime works from the past several decades.
This year’s edition expands its scope beyond the 1980s anime era, which was the focus of previous events. The 2026 festival will showcase titles from roughly three decades of anime history, including films released in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s.
A Festival Celebrating Anime Legends
The Domannaka Anime Film Festival aims to highlight the creative energy of the artists who helped shape the anime industry.
Many of these creators—now considered industry legends—produced groundbreaking works during their early careers. By screening these films and hosting discussions with their creators, the festival offers fans a rare chance to experience anime history directly from the people who made it.
Special guests will appear during screenings on May 15 and May 16, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and insights about their work.
In addition, a special talk session titled “A Discussion on 80s Anime – Episode 1” will be held on May 15.
Talk Event Guests
Participants in the panel discussion include:
Ryusuke Hikawa
Michihiko Suwa
Masuo Ueda
Hirotoshi Sano
Run Sasaki
The session will be moderated by Makoto Ishii, who will guide the discussion about the cultural and artistic impact of anime during the 1980s.
Festival Schedule and Venue
Event Details
Event: 3rd Domannaka Anime Film Festival
Dates: May 15 – May 21, 2026
Location: Midland Square Cinema, Nagoya
City: Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
The event will feature seven classic anime films, each accompanied by commentary sessions or guest appearances from notable creators and voice actors.
Featured Anime Films and Guest Speakers
Below are the confirmed screenings and special guests for the festival.
Space Runaway Ideon: Contact & Be Invoked
Year: 1982
Director: Yoshiyuki Tomino
This influential mecha anime film continues the story of the television series Space Runaway Ideon. Known for its intense themes and dramatic storytelling, the movie has become one of the most talked-about works in anime history.
Special Commentary
Ryota Fujitsu
Fujitsu will provide commentary during the screening, offering analysis of the film’s themes and historical impact.
Arion (1986)
Year: 1986
Director: Yoshikazu Yasuhiko
Based on Greek mythology, Arion is a fantasy adventure film that combines action, drama, and stunning animation.
Guest Speakers
Yoshikazu Yasuhiko (Director)
Mayumi Tanaka – voice of Seneca
The discussion will be moderated by Makoto Ishii.
Angel’s Egg (4K Remaster)
Year: 1985
Director: Mamoru Oshii
This surreal and philosophical anime film is considered a cult classic. The 2026 festival will feature the 4K remastered version, allowing audiences to experience the film’s haunting visuals in higher quality.
Guest Speaker
Yoshihiro Sugano
Discussion moderated by Ryusuke Hikawa.
Crayon Shin-chan: The Storm Called: The Battle of the Warring States
Year: 2002
Director: Keiichi Hara
Unlike many comedic entries in the franchise, this film features an emotional historical storyline set during Japan’s Sengoku period.
Guest Speaker
Miki Narahashi (voice of Misae Nohara)
Interview by Makoto Ishii.
Metropolis (2001)
Year: 2001
Director: Rintaro
Inspired by the works of Osamu Tezuka, Metropolis is a visually stunning sci-fi anime exploring themes of humanity and artificial intelligence.
Guest Speakers
Rintaro (Director)
Masao Maruyama
Toshiyuki Honda
Interview conducted by Masahiro Haraguchi.
Grave of the Fireflies
Year: 1988
Director: Isao Takahata
This powerful anti-war film from Studio Ghibli is widely regarded as one of the most emotionally impactful animated movies ever made.
Guest Speaker
Takeshi Seyama
Interview moderated by Seiji Kano.
Mobile Suit Gundam F91 (Complete Edition)
Year: 1991
Director: Yoshiyuki Tomino**
This film is part of the iconic Mobile Suit Gundam series and features intense mecha battles alongside a dramatic coming-of-age story.
Guest Speaker
Yumi Touma
Interview conducted by Ryusuke Hikawa.
Why the Festival Matters for Anime Fans
Events like the Domannaka Anime Film Festival provide a rare opportunity for fans to:
Watch classic anime films on the big screen
Hear stories directly from the creators
Learn about the history of anime production
Connect with other anime enthusiasts
The festival also highlights how anime evolved over the decades, showcasing works from the 1980s golden age through the early 2000s era.
Where to Get Updates
New announcements, including additional guest appearances and event details, will be shared through the festival’s official website and social media channels.
Anime fans planning to attend should check updates regularly as ticket information and additional programming are revealed.
