Product Info

Studio

Studio Chizu

Director

Mamoru Hosoda

Genre

Animation, Fantasy

Rated

PG-13

Theatrical Release Date (NA)

Feb 6, 2026

Film Length

1hr 51min

Purchase From

Scarlet is an animated film directed by Mamoru Hosoda (Belle, Mirai) that follows the story of a princess seeking revenge on her uncle. The film is visually stunning and emotionally impactful, but the world-building feels disjointed.

Revenge on the Mind

©2025 STUDIO CHIZU

The animated film is loosely inspired by Shakespeare’s Hamlet, focusing on the theme of revenge. Instead of Prince Hamlet, the main character is Princess Scarlet, seeking revenge for her father’s murder by her uncle, Claudius, who takes the throne and marries Scarlet’s mother.

The story is set in 16th-century Denmark, where Princess Scarlet seeks revenge after her father’s death. Poisoned and awakening in the “Otherworld,” a supernatural purgatory, Scarlet discovers her uncle is also there, fueling her desire for revenge.

On her journey, Scarlet meets a modern Japanese medic named Hijiri, who challenges her perspective and his “goody two shoes” way of thinking on their quest. Despite their differences, they form new friendships while Scarlet grapples with her thirst for revenge. As Scarlet and Hijiri travel together, facing various challenges, Scarlet’s character evolves, becoming more human and empathetic. The story includes heartwarming moments, such as a young girl Scarlet meets expressing her desire for a better world. A touching moment as everyone in the Overworld has died. 

The narrative has some pacing issues, with unnecessary scenes that could have been streamlined for better flow. While character development is important, some scenes feel disconnected from the main plot. For example, Scarlet goes into a trance where she visually sees herself and Hijiri dancing in his modern world. Visually fun and seeing a different view of Scarlet is intriguing but how it fits within the story remains a question.

The concept of the Otherworld, where people from different timelines coexist, adds depth to the story. However, the lack of exploration into other timelines and civilizations leaves some aspects feeling underdeveloped. One constant threat in the Otherworld is the risk of permanent death, adding tension to the characters’ journey.

Despite its flaws, watching Scarlet and Hijiri’s adventure is an engaging experience from start to finish.

Visually Stunning Scenary

©2025 STUDIO CHIZU

The Otherworld is vast and carries a somber vibe with its saturated environment of clouds, volcano eruptions, and a large dragon that shoots out lightning below, killing many. It’s not easy to escape the Otherworld, but the visuals of the scenes are beautifully done, like a painting you would see in art galleries. The special effects of the permanent deaths are visually stunning, resembling the way people perished in the infamous “snap” of Avengers: Infinity War. Crowd scenes where they revolt carry a lower framerate that’s noticeable but doesn’t linger on screen for too long. Lighting effects from campfires that glow and pulse against the characters give it a more realistic visual.

Characters are animated in a unique way, with a mix of traditional hand-drawn animation and 3D CG, giving it a more surreal visual style. Character movements feel a bit rugged with the lower framerate, while the environment showcases smoother animation. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but it works well enough. Some movements can make facial expressions appear stiff, but the voice acting from the voice actors helps bring that emotion back.

Action scenes are exciting with dynamic angles that add suspense. Close combat scenes are entertaining, especially when Scarlet faces off against larger men with the upper hand due to their skills and muscles. Watching how she uses her knowledge and wits to find her opponents’ weaknesses, such as openings in hard-plated armor, is intriguing.

The sound effects during action scenes, from sword clashing to lightning bolts striking from above, are great. However, the soundtrack itself doesn’t always feel strong enough in some scenes. You could watch the film without the soundtrack and still feel the same about it.

The Last Revenge

Scarlet is a visually stunning, Hamlet-inspired revenge story with powerful scenes and emotional moments. However, its thin world-building and uneven pacing hold it back.

An early screening provided for this review. Scarlet arrives in IMAX on February 6, 2026 and worldwide on February 13, 2026. Fans can visit the official website for tickets.