Pinguim Debuts ‘My Grandfather Is a Nihonjin’ Trailer Ahead of Annecy World Premiere

Brazilian animation powerhouse Pinguim Content has just dropped the official trailer for the new animated feature My Grand Father Is a Nihonjin. The film will receive an exclusive early screening at the Marché du Film, during Cannes Film Festival 2025, ahead of its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where it will be featured in the Annecy Presents category.

Crafted in a hand-drawn 2D animation style incorporating Japanese cultural influences, My Grandfather Is a Nihonjin tells the story of Noboru, a 10-year-old Japanese descendant in search of his cultural identity. He turns to his grandfather Hideo to learn more about his family. Despite having always avoided his past, Hideo agrees to share his story. As Noboru delves into his family’s history, he discovers an uncle he never knew existed.

Directed by Celia Catunda, with a screenplay by Rita Catunda adapted from the acclaimed novel by Oscar Nakasato, the film explores identity, resilience and cultural legacy through the eyes of a family navigating the tides of immigration. The visuals are inspired by the vibrant paintings of Oscar Oiwa, a contemporary Brazilian-Japanese artist. Kiko Mistrorigo and Ricardo Rozzino produce for Pinguim Content.

“São Paulo, Brazil, is home to the largest Japanese community outside Japan,” notes Celia Catunda. “The inspiring story of Noboru and his grandfather sheds light on the deep challenges of migration and cultural identity that resonate in immigrant families across the globe.”

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