Chinese animated film Big Fish & Begonia is to get a theatrical release in the UK and Ireland this spring, Manga Entertainment announced today. Directed by Liang Xuan and Zhang Chun, the 2016 epic fantasy will screen in selected cinemas on 18 April.

Inspired by the myths found in traditional Chinese texts such as In Search of the Supernatural and The Classic of Mountains and Seas, Big Fish & Begonia tells the story of spirit girl Chun, who is transformed into a dolphin when she turns 16 so that she can explore the world. Tangled in a fishing net, Chun is rescued by a human boy, but at the cost of his own life. Moved by his kindness, she is determined to bring him back to life… but to succeed, Chun must protect the boy’s soul, a tiny fish.

“We are incredibly proud to be bringing this beautiful epic to the big screen in the UK and Ireland,” said Andrew Hewson, Manga Entertainment’s Marketing Manager. “Big Fish & Begonia is a gorgeous fantasy adventure that will transport you right back to when you first watched a Studio Ghibli or Disney film – it is that distinctive and powerful! This is a must-see for all animation fans!”

Big Fish & Begonia premiered in competition at Annecy International Animation Film Festival and BFI London Film Festival, and has been selected to screen at New York International Children’s Film Festival later this month.

Official Teaser Trailer