The Imaginary (film)

The Imaginary is a Japanese animated fantasy film produced by Studio Ponoc. Based on the novel of the same name by A.F. Harrold, with illustrations by Emily Gravett, the film tells the story of Rudger, an imaginary friend, and his adventures as he tries to avoid being forgotten by his human, Amanda.

Directed by Yoshiyuki Momose, who previously worked on Studio Ghibli films such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke, The Imaginary explores themes of childhood, imagination, loss, and the importance of remembering. Rudger, despite being a figment of Amanda's imagination, experiences the world with a vibrant sense of wonder and faces real dangers as he learns about the nature of imaginary beings and the threat of being erased.

The animation style is characterized by Studio Ponoc's signature hand-drawn aesthetic, creating a visually rich and emotionally resonant world. The film utilizes vibrant colors and detailed backgrounds to bring Rudger's imaginary world to life, contrasting it with the more grounded reality of Amanda's life.

The Imaginary was originally slated for release in the summer of 2022, but was delayed due to production challenges. It was eventually released in Japan in December 2023, and received positive reviews for its animation, storytelling, and emotional depth.