It has been revealed that the theatrical version of the short anime "Galaxy Express Milky Subway," "Galaxy Express Milky Subway: Local Train to the Theater," has grossed 400 million yen and attracted over 300,000 viewers in the 18 days since its release on February 6th. In response to its success, it has been announced that the number of theaters showing the film will be expanded from March 6th. 75 new theaters will be added to the current 76, "almost doubling" the number of theaters showing the film.
As the third gift for attendees, mini colored paper featuring illustrations drawn by director Yohei Kameyama will be distributed from February 27th. The designs feature Chiharu and Makina, Akane and Kanata, Kurt and Max, and Ryoko all gathered together.
"Galaxy Express Milky☆Subway" is a sequel to the short 3D animation "Milky☆Highway," which Kameyama, then a student at a video vocational school, released on YouTube in 2022 as his graduation project. After being arrested for violating the Galactic Road Traffic Act, Chiharu, a cyborg, and others are tasked with cleaning the interplanetary train "Milky☆Subway" as a volunteer activity, but they become embroiled in a major incident on board when the train suddenly goes out of control.
The series has gained popularity for its nostalgic visuals and unique, natural dialogue, with a total of over 250 million views on YouTube. The film version re-edits all 12 episodes of the short anime series and adds new parts.
