The film held its world premiere in Japan on September 8, 2016 , distributed by Shochiku. It opened in 120 theaters and immediately garnered critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of Shoya Ishida and Shoko Nishimiya. Unlike typical blockbuster anime, Koe no Katachi relied on word-of-mouth, running in theaters for over six months due to sustained demand.
Before a wide international release, A Silent Voice made its first foreign appearance at the London Film Festival on October 8, 2016 . This screening put the film on the global radar, earning standing ovations and sparking distribution deals worldwide. koe no katachi release date