by The 3rd Domannaka Anime Film Festival will take place from May 15 to May 21, 2026, at Midland Square Cinema in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. This special theatrical event will showcase a curated lineup of influential anime films spanning several decades, including landmark works such as Space Runaway Ideon and Angel’s Egg.
A newly revealed poster visual illustrated by acclaimed animator and illustrator Hirotoshi Sano highlights the festival’s focus on classic and artistically significant anime cinema.
What Is the Domannaka Anime Film Festival?
Launched in May 2024, the Domannaka Anime Film Festival aims to bring historically important anime films back to the big screen. While previous editions emphasized works from the 2000s, the 2026 festival expands its scope to include major titles from the 1980s, a golden era that shaped modern anime storytelling.
The festival’s mission is to allow both longtime fans and new audiences to experience these films as they were meant to be seen in a cinema with high-quality sound and visuals.
Featured Films at the 2026 Festival
Seven carefully selected films from a roughly 30-year period will be screened:
Classic Sci-Fi & Mecha
- Space Runaway Ideon: Contact / Activation Chapter Directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, this compilation film presents the devastating climax of one of anime’s most influential mecha series.
Fantasy & Mythology
- Arion An adaptation of Yoshikazu Yasuhiko’s manga set in a mythological world inspired by Greek legends.
Experimental & Art House
- Angel’s Egg (4K Remaster) Mamoru Oshii’s haunting, dialogue-light masterpiece known for its symbolic storytelling and stunning visuals.
Family & Historical Drama
- Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: The Storm Called: The Battle of the Warring States A fan-favorite film blending comedy with emotional historical elements.
Cyberpunk & Sci-Fi
- Metropolis (2001) Directed by Rintaro, this film reimagines Osamu Tezuka’s manga with lavish animation and themes of humanity and technology.
War & Human Drama
- Grave of the Fireflies Isao Takahata’s devastating anti-war classic, widely regarded as one of the greatest animated films ever made.
Gundam Franchise Highlight
- Mobile Suit Gundam F91 Complete Edition A standalone Gundam story featuring high-speed mobile suit combat and political intrigue.
Special Events and Guest Appearances
In addition to film screenings, the festival will host a special talk program:
“80s Anime Talk Session Ep.1”
Scheduled guests include:
- Hirotoshi Sano (Animator & Illustrator)
- Ryusuke Hikawa (Anime researcher and critic)
- Michihiko Suwa (Producer)
- Masuo Ueda (Anime producer)
- Run Sasaki (Industry figure)
Further details including schedules and additional appearances will be announced on the official festival website.
Why This Festival Matters
The Domannaka Anime Film Festival is more than just a screening event. It plays an important role in preserving anime history and introducing influential works to new generations.
Key Reasons It’s Significant
- Revives classic films rarely shown in theaters
- Highlights the artistic evolution of anime
- Provides educational insights through talk sessions
- Celebrates creators who shaped the industry
- Offers fans a communal viewing experience
Event Details at a Glance
Event: 3rd Domannaka Anime Film Festival
Dates: May 15–21, 2026
Venue: Midland Square Cinema, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
Total Films: 7 classic anime titles
Special Program: 80s Anime Talk Session
Final Thoughts
With its carefully curated lineup and special guest events, the 2026 Domannaka Anime Film Festival promises to be a must-visit event for anime enthusiasts, film historians, and newcomers alike. From the philosophical depth of Angel’s Egg to the emotional impact of Grave of the Fireflies, the festival offers a rare opportunity to experience some of anime’s most influential works on the big screen.
Whether you are revisiting beloved classics or discovering them for the first time, this festival celebrates the enduring power of anime as both entertainment and art.
