Daily Anime News Roundup – August 12, 2026
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
- Crunchyroll secures global distribution rights for Makoto Shinkai’s next film.
- New Pokémon short featuring Wartortle released.
- Live-action adaptation of *BLUE LOCK* begins international rollout.
- Manga artist Yōko Umezu passes away, leaving a legacy.
- Upcoming anime releases to watch for in October.
Table of Contents
- Crunchyroll Secures Global Distribution for Makoto Shinkai’s Next Film
- New Pokémon Short Released Featuring Wartortle
- Live-Action *BLUE LOCK* Film Begins International Rollout
- Irreplaceable Talent: Remembering Yōko Umezu
- Other Anime News
- Upcoming Events
- What to Watch
Crunchyroll Secures Global Distribution for Makoto Shinkai’s Next Film
Crunchyroll has acquired global distribution rights for acclaimed director Makoto Shinkai’s newest film, with a release plan that excludes most of Asia. This collaboration with Sony Pictures promises to bring Shinkai’s latest work to international audiences, heightening anticipation following his past successes, such as Your Name and Weathering with You. The director has hinted that a theatrical release could be announced soon. [Anime News Network]
New Pokémon Short Released Featuring Wartortle
A new POKÉTOON short titled “Wartortle and the Ongoing Summer,” directed by Shingo Yamashita and produced by Studio Chromato and Studio Colorido, has been released. The short marks a charming addition to the Pokémon franchise and showcases the creative talents behind it. [Crunchyroll]
Live-Action *BLUE LOCK* Film Begins International Rollout
The live-action adaptation of the hit sports anime *BLUE LOCK* is set to begin its international release, with dates and promotional materials unveiled for several countries, including Serbia, Montenegro, Taiwan, and Sweden. This expansion marks an important milestone for the franchise’s reach beyond Japan. [Anime Corner]
Irreplaceable Talent: Remembering Yōko Umezu
Tragically, the manga artist Yōko Umezu, known for her work on *Vermeil in Gold,* passed away due to an ischemic stroke on July 7, 2026. Her contributions to the manga community will be fondly remembered and celebrated by fans and peers alike. [Anime News Network]
Other Anime News
- Anime and Game Announcements
- *The Laid-Off Cheat-Granting Mage*: The upcoming anime adaptation revealed a new action trailer, with the series set to stream on Crunchyroll in October.
- *Inherit the Winds* Casting Update: The anime adaptation has announced that Takeo Ōtsuka will join the cast, slated to debut in January 2027.
- New *Hell Mode* Season 2 Visual: The second season of *Hell Mode* continues to generate excitement with a new visual and additional cast announcements.
- Licensing and Catalog Expansions
- BookWalker adds Crossed Hearts Titles: New manga titles have been added to BookWalker’s catalog, expanding options for digital readers.
Upcoming Events
- *Nia Liston: The Merciless Maiden* Opening Song Unveiled: The anime will feature VTuber Tsunomaki Watame as the opening song artist. The series is set to premiere on October 6.
What to Watch
Keep an eye on the following upcoming releases and events:
- The Laid-Off Cheat-Granting Mage Enjoys a New Life on Crunchyroll in October.
- Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen Musical premieres on October 15, featuring live-action talents from the *One Piece* series. [Anime News Network]
FAQ
Q: When will Makoto Shinkai’s next film be released globally?
A: The exact release date has yet to be announced, but details are expected soon following Crunchyroll’s acquisition.
Q: Where can I watch the new Pokémon short?
A: The new Pokémon short can be watched on Crunchyroll.
Q: Who is Yōko Umezu?
A: Yōko Umezu was a beloved manga artist known for her work on *Vermeil in Gold* and has recently passed away.