Mamoru Hosoda, the renowned anime filmmaker, is set to enchant audiences once again with his upcoming film, Scarlet, scheduled for release during the winter of 2025. This project heralds Hosoda's return after nearly four years since his last major work, Belle, and follows the celebration of the 15th anniversary of his acclaimed film, Summer Wars. Hosoda not only directs but also serves as the scriptwriter and original creator of the film, which marks another milestone for him and Studio Chizu.
Produced through collaborative efforts among Studio Chizu, Nippon Television, and Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE), Scarlet is already generating buzz. The film will be distributed by Toho within Japan, with SPE handling worldwide distribution. Alongside the announcement, audiences were treated to a captivating teaser visual showing a woman with flowing red hair standing beneath a gradient sky, evoking curiosity about the film's themes and tone.
Meanwhile, as winter break continues, high school girls' basketball teams across the Imperial Valley are engaged in tournament action, setting the stage for the CIF-San Diego Sections' Southeastern Conference 2025 season. With tournaments commencing as of last week, teams are using these opportunities to gear up. For example, on December 20th, under veteran coach Rich Ponchione, the Imperial Tiger girls' basketball team clinched an intense victory against the Steele Canyon Cougars with a narrow score of 46-43. This hard-fought win showcased the Tigers' grit, as they limited their opponents to just four points during the final quarter.
Imperial's performance was led by freshman Elynna Jimenez, who scored 14 points, supported by senior Nayeli Cardona with 12 points, and junior Maddie M. Magdaleno, contributing nine points. Looking forward, Imperial will team up with the Brawley High Wildcats at the 24th Annual Desert Holiday Classic Girls Basketball Tournament, hosted by Shadow Hills High School. The event promises to be fiercely competitive, featuring 34 teams from regions all over, including California, Nevada, Washington, and even Canada.
Today, December 26th, marks the beginning of the Desert Holiday Classic, where Imperial aims to continue its winning streak against North Hollywood's Campbell Hall Vikings. Brawley also gears up for their opening match against the Palm Springs Indians. Teams like Calexico and Central will also be participating in different tournaments, hoping to get back on track from tough previous encounters.
Not far from the excitement of basketball, the Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic is returning to Newark Showground on January 11-12, 2025. Attendees are set for nostalgia and thrilling two-wheeled action. This much-anticipated event will feature prominent figures, including Wayne Gardner, the 1987 World Motorcycle Grand Prix Champion, who will engage with fans alongside TT star Roger Marshall and BSB Champ Steve Plater.
Visitors can expect to marvel at club stands showcasing everything from Bantams to Vespas, with custom bikes on display. The event’s autojumble promises to feature numerous traders both inside and outside the main hall. The firing-up area will bring classic motorcycles to life, filling the atmosphere with the alluring sound and smell of vintage machines.
For those planning to attend, advance tickets are priced at £13, rising to £16 if purchased on the day of the event, with free entry for attendees under the age of 15.
Rounding off the winter discussions is the exhilarating world of hockey. 2025 is poised to be notable for hockey enthusiasts, with bold predictions surfacing about significant events. Connor Bedard is anticipated to shine during the Winter Classic, where he is predicted to join the elite list of players who’ve secured hat tricks during outdoor games. The upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off tournament is another focal point, promising captivating showdowns, including Team USA's efforts to defend their championship title.
Additional forward-looking statements include expected high-stakes trades and performances by star players across the NHL. Fans are eager to see how teams adapt during the upcoming season, with bold assertions about playoff performance and potential upsets dominating discussions.
With thrilling events and releases marking the winter of 2025, from the cinematic brilliance of Scarlet to invigorated high school sports and the nostalgic resurgence of classic motorcycles, it's clear this winter will be full of excitement and anticipation across entertainment and sports arenas alike.