Anime fans can now mark their calendars for November 6, 2026. The GROTESQQQUE, the original anthology film from CloverWorks and director Atsushi Nishigori, will premiere in Japanese theaters. The release date was officially announced during CloverWorks’ Anime Expo 2026 panel.
Alongside the announcement, the studio also released a new trailer, a striking key visual, and revealed the film’s opening theme song.
What Is GROTESQQQUE About?
GROTESQQQUE is an original anime anthology film made up of three separate stories, each featuring its own characters, setting, and storyline. Instead of following one continuous plot, the movie presents three unique tales in a single theatrical experience.
The three stories are titled Aliens, 4649 Girl, and Nocturne: Kono Grotesque na Yoru ni. Each explores different themes and offers its own visual style, making the film stand out from traditional anime movies.
The title “4649 Girl” also includes a fun Japanese wordplay. The number “4649” is commonly read as “yoroshiku,” a casual expression that can mean “nice to meet you” or “please treat me well.”
Atsushi Nishigori Leads the Creative Team
The film is directed by Atsushi Nishigori, who is also writing the screenplay and designing the characters. Taking on all three major creative roles makes GROTESQQQUE a very personal project for the veteran animator.
Nishigori is well known for directing Darling in the Franxx and The Idolmaster. He also worked as a character designer on Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, earning praise for his distinctive art style.
With Nishigori overseeing the story, character designs, and direction, fans can expect a film that reflects a clear creative vision from start to finish.
A Major Collaboration Between Top Anime Studios
Although CloverWorks is leading the production, GROTESQQQUE is also backed by JOEN, a production company created by Aniplex, CloverWorks, Wit Studio, and Shueisha.
The collaboration brings together some of the biggest names in the anime industry. JOEN was established to support ambitious original projects through shared resources and creative talent.
This strong production team has raised expectations for GROTESQQQUE, especially among fans looking forward to another high-quality original anime film.
The Film Will Premiere at an International Festival First
Before arriving in Japanese theaters, GROTESQQQUE will make its world premiere at the Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal.
The festival runs from July 16 to August 2, 2026, giving international audiences an early chance to watch the film months before its theatrical release in Japan.
A festival debut also gives the movie an opportunity to receive early reviews and reactions, helping build excitement ahead of its November premiere.
New Trailer Reveals Theme Song
During Anime Expo 2026, CloverWorks released a new trailer that offers a closer look at all three stories featured in the film.
The trailer also previews the opening theme song, “Shoot Shoot Shoot,” performed by METALVERSE. The energetic song gives fans a taste of the film’s unique atmosphere.
For international viewers, Crunchyroll later shared an English-subtitled version of the trailer, making it easier for fans worldwide to experience the latest preview.
A Long Journey to the Big Screen
GROTESQQQUE was first announced during Anime Expo 2024 and was originally planned for a 2025 release.
The film was later delayed to 2026, giving the production team additional time to complete the project. During development, the movie’s title was also updated before settling on its final stylized name, GROTESQQQUE.
Now officially set to premiere in Japanese theaters on November 6, 2026, the anthology film is one of CloverWorks’ most anticipated original anime releases of the year.
