Keigo Higashino's Novel Becomes an Animated Film... 'The Guardian of the Camphor Tree' Set to Release in March

The first animated film adaptation of the works of Japan's master of mystery, Keigo Higashino, 〈The Guardian of the Camphor Tree〉, will be coming to domestic audiences this March.

On the 6th, the importing company, AniPlus Co., Ltd., confirmed the March release of 〈The Guardian of the Camphor Tree〉 and drew attention by unveiling a launch poster and trailer that exude a mysterious atmosphere.

The film 〈The Guardian of the Camphor Tree〉 is a mystery fantasy that depicts the story of a guardian chasing the secrets of visitors seeking the hidden power of the camphor tree, which is said to grant wishes. Based on a sensational work that was simultaneously published in Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan in 2020 and has surpassed 1 million copies in circulation, it brings Keigo Higashino's unique solid narrative to life on screen in a new animated form.

This project has been enhanced by a 'dream team' leading the Japanese animation industry, from direction to art and music. Tomohiko Ito, who honed his sensibilities by collaborating with director Mamoru Hosoda of 〈The Girl Who Leapt Through Time〉, takes the helm, while art director Hiroshi Takiguchi, a core member of Makoto Shinkai's team known for works like 〈Your Name.〉 and 〈The Garden of Words〉, presents realistic yet lyrical animation.

The film 〈The Guardian of the Camphor Tree〉 is set to release this March.