Naoko Yamada, known for directing "K-On! The Movie" (2011) and "A Silent Voice" (2016), returns with her latest creation, "Your Colors,"(Kimi no iro) a wholly original feature-length animation, set for a national release on August 30th. Prior to its premiere, the film has been selected to compete in the feature film competition at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2024, held in Annecy, southeastern France.

This marks Yamada's third submission to the festival, following "A Silent Voice" in 2017 and "Liz and the Blue Bird" in 2018. Last year, her short animation film "Garden of Remembrance" was also featured at the festival. This year's event runs from June 9 to June 15.

Upon the selection, Director Yamada expressed her joy, stating, "It’s a profound happiness to deliver this story, which depicts the irreplaceable nature of every individual beyond simple categories and colors, to an international audience."

The film, which is already set for distribution in 210 countries and territories including Japan, sees Reiko Yoshida handling the screenplay. Yoshida has previously collaborated with Yamada on several successful projects. Kensuke Ushio, who composed for "A Silent Voice" and "Liz and the Blue Bird," returns to score the music.

The cast features new talents chosen from 1600 auditionees, with the leads voiced by Sayu Suzukawa, Akari Takahashi, and Taisei Kido, depicting three young individuals navigating the complexities of adolescence. Yui Aragaki voices a guiding nun character, adding depth to the ensemble.

Additionally, vibrant and fresh stills from the film were released, showcasing key moments that illustrate the film's rich narrative about youth and music. Yamada's nuanced expression is evident in every frame, portraying the emotional and colorful journey of the characters.

Here's a full translation of Director Naoko Yamada's comment regarding "Your Colors":

"Your Colors" is a story about the strength to openly love what you love, walked through by three boys and girls each with their own feelings. I have strongly felt again that this is something very important to cherish as I continue to make works. It's an immense joy to be able to share this story, which depicts the invaluable nature of each individual that can't be simply categorized or confined by a single color or word, with people around the world. I hope you will appreciate 'Your Colors'!"