Seventeen years after its premiere, a beloved animated film is destined to undergo a transformation into a live-action project. The iconic anime, 5 Centimeters per Second, will make its transition to a new format, bringing fresh interpretations to the story originally crafted in 2007.
Directed and penned by Makoto Shinkai, the original movie unfolds in three segments that narrate the life experiences of the protagonist, Takaki Tōno. In this upcoming adaptation, Hokuto Matsumura has been selected to portray Takaki; he previously had a leading voice role in another one of Shinkai's creations, Suzume.
The synopsis of the live-action film presents the narrative: Takaki and Akari, who become best friends after attending the same elementary school, find their lives altered when their families have to move. After being apart for a year, Takaki is on the verge of reuniting with Akari. As he travels on a train from Tokyo, he reflects on cherished memories as the moment with Akari approaches. They both begin to question whether they will reunite and explore their hidden feelings. This adaptation promises to take viewers on a journey through three intertwined stories of affection and the loss of innocence over the passing minutes and months of their lives.
Yoshiyuki Okuyama is helming the direction based on a screenplay written by Ayako Suzuki. Okuyama expressed his sentiment regarding the project, stating that it is a significant coincidence that he is tasked with adapting a story that Shinkai created at the same age of 33. He acknowledged the reality that certain creations can only be birthed at particular moments, emphasizing the fleeting nature of creativity.
Shinkai has also shared his thoughts on the live-action adaptation via social media, conveying gratitude to Okuyama, Matsumura, and the young team for revitalizing his cherished work. He feels motivated to create an anime film that matches their enthusiasm and talent, eagerly anticipating the new rendition of 5 Centimeters per Second when it hits the theaters.
As anticipation builds for 5 Centimeters per Second, planned for debut in autumn 2025, consider exploring our recommendations for the best anime currently available or get excited about the upcoming releases to enrich your viewing experience.