The hit anime’s continued success offers fans much to anticipate.
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 29, 2024 — Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc. and Kodansha Ltd. announced today that BLUE LOCK THE MOVIE -EPISODE NAGI – achieved over $23.3 million (3.6 billion yen) in global box office revenue. The film’s release in over 87 countries and regions, with international revenue exceeding domestic earnings in Japan as of October, contributed significantly to this milestone. With season two of BLUE LOCK currently airing, both companies plan to continue extensive international promotion for the soccer franchise.
Global Merchandise and Promotion
A diverse range of merchandise and gaming experiences caters to the enthusiastic BLUE LOCK anime and manga fanbase. Translations in over 20 languages are available in more than 20 countries. Bandai Namco Filmworks handles licensing in Asia, while Kodansha manages licensing in Europe, the U.S., and other regions, actively developing localized products. Asian licensing applications have increased significantly (approximately fourfold), with sales (production committee income) rising about twelvefold, rivaling Japan’s merchandising revenue. Asian pop-up shops featuring BLUE LOCK goods have proven especially popular.
U.S. promotional efforts have been diverse and highly successful. BLUE LOCK panels at the 2024 Anime Expo drew over 2000 attendees each, filling venues to capacity. The opportunity to interact with cast, producers, and the manga’s editor resonated strongly. Furthermore, BLUE LOCK VS U-20 Japan was promoted at various LAFC (Los Angeles Football Club) games, marking the club’s first Japanese anime promotion.
Future Outlook
BLUE LOCK’s success stems from its global soccer fanbase and its distinctive themes and characters. More of a “death game” than a typical sports series, BLUE LOCK delivers compelling action and explores complex topics such as individuality and the development of connections through competition.
International fans can anticipate continued simultaneous releases of BLUE LOCK media and further initiatives as Bandai Namco Filmworks and Kodansha remain committed to delivering such stories worldwide.
About BLUE LOCK:
BLUE LOCK is a TV anime based on the popular manga published in Kodansha’s “Weekly Shonen Magazine”. The manga has sold over 40 million copies globally (as of August 2024) and won the 45th Kodansha Manga Award in the Juvenile Division. The first film, “BLUE LOCK THE MOVIE -EPISODE NAGI-,” debuted in April 2024. Season two of the TV series premiered on October 5, 2024.
About Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc.
Bandai Namco Filmworks develops and produces film and video titles, distributing them through various media (television, cinemas, streaming) and licensing copyrights worldwide. We also develop and market related merchandise and services, offering comprehensive entertainment services.
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About KODANSHA
Based in Tokyo, KODANSHA Ltd. is Japan’s leading publisher, delivering diverse content globally—from comics and novels to fashion magazines, news journals, children’s books, and video games/anime. Founded in 1909, KODANSHA is recognized for licensing popular comic book IPs, including “AKIRA,” “Attack on Titan,” and “The Ghost in the Shell.”
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