Whoever Steals This Book Anime Film Premieres on December 26, 2025
The highly anticipated Whoever Steals This Book anime film adaptation is officially set to premiere in Japanese theaters on December 26, 2025. Adapted from the fantasy mystery manga written by Nowaki Fukamidori and illustrated by Kakeru Sora, this original cinematic project brings to life a unique tale that blends literary adventure, magic, and personal growth through the lens of beautifully crafted animation and a compelling narrative.
About the Original Manga
Originally published in Japan, Whoever Steals This Book tells the story of Mifuyu, a high school student born into a prestigious lineage of book collectors. Her great-grandfather once established the iconic Mikura Hall, a grand library embedded at the heart of their quaint town. Surrounded by bibliophiles and endless volumes of literature, Mifuyu harbors a secret loathing for books—an ironic twist that shapes the central conflict of the story.
The story takes a fantastical turn when an unknown thief disturbs the peace within Mikura Hall, activating an ancient curse. Caught in a magical predicament, Mifuyu must retrieve the missing books by diving headfirst into the very stories she has always avoided. Alongside a mysterious companion named Mashiro, she embarks on an otherworldly journey that challenges her beliefs and rekindles a forgotten connection to her family’s legacy.
The English version of the manga is officially published by Yen Press, ensuring accessibility for global audiences as interest in the story continues to grow ahead of the anime film debut.
Production Details for the Whoever Steals This Book Anime Film
The anime adaptation of Whoever Steals This Book is being produced by Kagokan, a reputable animation studio known for its high-quality visual storytelling. The studio was founded by animation producer Yuji Higa, who is credited as the animation producer for the film.
The project is spearheaded by director Daiki Fukuoka, whose past directorial work includes entries in the Yuki Yuna is a Hero franchise, particularly The Hero Chapter. His experience with emotionally driven narratives and fantasy settings brings a promising touch to the adaptation.
Handling the screenplay is Yasuhiro Nakanishi, recognized for his writing on the well-received series Toilet-bound Hanako-kun. The script is expected to stay faithful to the manga’s tone while enhancing the storytelling for the cinematic format.
Character design and chief animation direction is led by Keiko Kurosawa, previously acknowledged for her work on Astra Lost in Space. Her distinct and expressive designs aim to capture the emotional depth and fantasy elements of the story’s diverse world.
Composing the film’s original score is veteran artist Michiru Oshima, whose body of work spans anime, television, and film. Oshima is widely praised for her lush orchestral compositions, including scores for Anne Shirley and other acclaimed titles.
Confirmed Theatrical Release in Japan
The Whoever Steals This Book anime film has been officially confirmed for theatrical release in Japan on December 26, 2025. This announcement, made via the production committee’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, marks a shift from the previously estimated 2026 release window, accelerating the anticipation surrounding the project. Japanese cinemas nationwide are expected to screen the film during the winter holiday season.
Key Themes and Genre
Rooted in the genre of fantasy mystery, the film explores themes including the power of literature, personal transformation, and the lasting influence of family heritage. The combination of magical realism and character-driven storytelling positions the film as a unique entry in the 2025 anime film calendar.
Audiences can expect elaborate world-building within each book Mifuyu enters, all while witnessing her journey from reluctant reader to a heroine embracing her destiny. With an evolving dynamic between Mifuyu and Mashiro, the film offers a blend of suspense, wonder, and emotional resonance that mirrors the original manga’s appeal.
Official Development and Promotion
The marketing campaign for Whoever Steals This Book has already begun with the release of a teaser trailer, further previewing the tone and visual identity of the film. While no international release dates or streaming platforms have yet been confirmed, updates are expected to follow after the domestic debut in Japan.
The production team has emphasized their commitment to an authentic and visually immersive adaptation, designed to please both longtime fans of the manga and new viewers unfamiliar with the original work.
Conclusion
With a seasoned team of industry professionals, a powerfully imaginative story, and a definitive release window in Japan, Whoever Steals This Book is poised to become one of the standout anime films of late 2025. Audiences eager for a rich narrative involving fantasy, literature, and self-discovery should mark December 26, 2025, on their calendars, as that is when this remarkable journey into the world of stories will begin.
Source: Crunchyroll Official News
