Promare's success in US could open up Western markets to anime films
Anime may be a massive cultural phenomenon globally but in the U.S. it is still a growing field of interest and except for a particular niche audience, most people aren't very familiar with the industry. Studio Trigger's 'Promare' may change that with its highly successful arrival in the States.
Taking an anime film to the West may have seemed like a bit of a risk at first but Trigger had their reasons to think the movie might do well in the American market. Since its premiere back in May, 'Promare' has become a massive success, grossing over $6 million in Japan alone and raising Studio Trigger's already impressive profile to a whole new level.
The film isn't exactly a masterpiece of storytelling. In terms of plot and characters, 'Promare' feels like a bit of a rehash of established anime tropes. However, the spectacular artwork of the movie is its real selling point and its predictability is more than made up for by its graphic beauty. The third act of the film is especially fun to watch and the battle sequences are perfectly crafted aesthetic treats.
Ever since the film completed its first round of screenings September 17, people have been taking to social media to express their admiration for the movie and the studio that created it. The fact that this is Studio Trigger's first feature-length film makes the response to 'Promare' all the more impressive. Just take a look at these tweets:
"Promare is by far one of the best movies I have seen in a long time and shot up to being one of my absolute favorites instantly! 10/10🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Everything about it was fantastic!" - @UmbriKasu
"#PROMARE was pure candy. That was the most Studio Trigger thing that ever happened! Dang fine dub too." - @TVsKyle
Considering how successful 'Promare' has become, it's possible that the film may convince more anime creators to bring their works to the U.S. The audience for anime may not be as massive in the West as it is in the East, but 'Promare' is evidence enough that genius can find appreciation beyond the limits of cultural and national borders.
Now that Netflix and other mainstream groups are beginning to invest themselves heavily in the industry, the years to come could see anime blossom into a major force in the U.S. as it is in other parts of the world.
'Promare' is coming to select theaters in the United States with the first round of screenings having been completed on September 17 and the second round coming up on September 19, building up to a nation-wide premiere event on September 20. Grab your tickets now, as it looks like they're going to be selling like hotcakes!