The movie Chibi Maruko-chan features a boy from Italy, Liu Yihao, at the event

 By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department compiled report
 
The well-known Japanese national anime Chibi Maruko-chan returns to the big screen after 23 years with the release of Chibi Maruko-chan the Movie: The Boy from Italy. The storyline is fully upgraded, and the setting not only moves away from Maruko’s hometown in Shimizu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, but also marks the first time Maruko and her classmates travel to Osaka and Kyoto. This installment also introduces six original foreign characters who come to Japan for a homestay experience, adding more fun and spark to the film.
 

Among them, the passionate Brazilian girl “Julia” is voiced by Naomi Watanabe, known as the “Japanese Beyoncé”! A talented singer and dancer, Julia will have many hilarious contrasting interactions with Noguchi, who is known for his signature cold “ku-ku-ku” smirk. As for the Italian boy “Andrea,” the sunny and warm-hearted actor Liu Yihao has been invited to serve as the Chinese voice guest star. Additionally, on August 2nd, there will be a “Fan Meet-and-Greet Early Screening Event” where fans can interact up close with guest star Liu Yihao and the Chibi Maruko-chan character doll. Liu Yihao will also share his experience voicing the character with the audience.

The plot of the film describes how six young international students from five different countries, on the suggestion of Hanawa, come to Japan to experience homestay life, causing a sensation in Maruko’s class. The Italian boy Andrea chooses to stay with Maruko’s family. Although Maruko is puzzled by Andrea’s enthusiastic advances, she comes to understand his hidden feelings after learning the reason he came to Japan. Together, they attend a summer festival, each making a wish to see each other again. But happy times are always short-lived, and the moment of parting finally arrives...

【Info】
 
Chibi Maruko-chan the Movie: The Boy from Italy
Genre: Animation
Duration: 94 minutes
Director: Jun Takagi
Cast: Tarako, Yūsaku Yara, Teiyū Ichiryūsai, Toshiyuki Morikawa, Yūko Mita
Distribution Company: Cai Chang International Multimedia
Release Date: 2016-08-05