Disney+ Adds 'Your Name.', 'Ghost in the Shell 2' in U.K., France

Disney+ is expanding its anime offerings in the U.K. and France by licensing celebrated Japanese films, including Makoto Shinkai's "Your Name." and Mamoru Oshii's "Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence." This content acquisition was confirmed through a licensing agreement with Anime Limited, a prominent distributor of anime in the U.K. The addition of these titles coincides with the launch of Disney+'s and Hulu's fourth annual "Animayhem" campaign, which will feature new anime content throughout the summer.

The "Animayhem" event aims to highlight the growing popularity of anime and provide subscribers with access to a diverse range of animated productions. The specific films licensed from Anime Limited represent significant works within the anime genre, known for their critical acclaim and artistic merit. "Your Name." (Kimi no Na wa.) is a 2016 romantic fantasy film that achieved widespread international success, praised for its animation and narrative. "Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence," released in 2004, is a science fiction film that serves as a sequel to the original "Ghost in the Shell," known for its philosophical themes and detailed world-building.

This strategic move by Disney+ underscores the company's commitment to diversifying its content library and catering to a global audience with a growing appetite for anime. The partnership with Anime Limited ensures that these highly regarded films will be accessible to a broader audience on Disney+'s streaming platforms in key European markets. The "Animayhem" campaign is expected to drive engagement and attract new subscribers interested in Japanese animation.