Iconic Japanese singer Masami Okui is set to release her first single in nearly eight years, Baby Baby Baby, on April 23, 2025, under the Lantis label. The track marks a significant return for the artist, who has been a major figure in the anime music scene for decades. This highly anticipated single will serve as the opening theme for the upcoming TV anime Please Put Them On, Takamine-san, which premieres in April 2025.
About Please Put Them On, Takamine-san,
The brand new trailer above, gives fans a preview of the opening and ending theme songs: “Baby Baby Baby” by Masami Okui featuring Bonjour Suzuki and “Hightail it” by Makoto Furukawa.
Based on the manga by Yuichi Hiiragi, Please Put Them On, Takamine-san is directed by Tomoe Makino, known for Aharen-san wa Hakarenai, at studio LIDEN FILMS. The series is written by Yu Sato, best known for TONIKAWA: Over The Moon For You, with character designs and chief animation direction by Ryo Yamauchi and Maya Ito. Music for the series is composed by Takeshi Nakatsuka, who previously worked on My Dress-Up Darling.
Fans can look forward to the hilarious antics of this ecchi comedy as it unfolds in Japan on April 2, 2025.
Baby Baby Baby OP
The lead track, Baby Baby Baby, is a collaboration between Okui and Bonjour Suzuki, blending Okui’s powerful vocals with Suzuki’s playful, coquettish singing style. Fans can look forward to a catchy and dynamic opening theme that perfectly captures the essence of the anime.
The single will also feature a coupling track written by R・O・N, showcasing a cooler, more reserved side of Okui’s vocal range. The contrast between the two tracks is expected to highlight Okui’s versatility as an artist, offering fans a diverse listening experience.
This release will come in two editions: a limited first-edition 8 cm single, featuring exclusive artwork for Please Put Them On, Takamine-san and a new photo of Okui, evoking the charm of her classic releases, and a standard 12 cm edition. Both versions will include off-vocal versions of the tracks, making them a must-have for both music lovers and collectors.
Single Details:
Release Date: April 23, 2025
Title:Baby Baby Baby (Limited Edition / Standard Edition)
Okui, known for her past theme songs for iconic anime such as Slayers and Revolutionary Girl Utena, has also contributed her talents to the popular anime music collective JAM Project. With Baby Baby Baby, she continues to showcase her enduring influence in the anime music world.
For more information, visit her official websites:
The highly anticipated anime The Mononoke Lecture Logs of Chuzenji-sensei: He Just Solves All the Mysteries is set to premiere on April 7, 2025! The first trailer and key visual have been released, giving fans a first look at the supernatural mystery series.
Based on the spin-off manga illustrated by Aki Shimizu, The Mononoke Lecture Logs of Chuzenji-sensei serves as a prequel to Natsuhiko Kyogoku’s popular Hyakki Yako novel series, which has sold over 10 million copies. The story follows Kanna Kusakabe, a female student who meets Akihiko Chuzenji, a newly appointed literature teacher at her school. Together, they navigate a series of strange and eerie events, blending youthful drama with supernatural intrigue. This anime delves into the high school years of Chuzenji, showcasing his early encounters with mysterious forces.
Introduction
This story takes place before the exorcist Kyogokudo opened up a used bookstore… Our setting is in Tokyo in 1948, just right after the war. Kanna Kusakabe had just become a second-year at a high school when she met the new language teacher, Akihiko Chuzenji. Mysterious supernatural things keep happening around Kanna. Once again today, Kanna is going to open the doors to the library prep room to seek help from the surly Chuzenji-sensei who is waiting inside. A high school supernatural mystery featuring the unlikely duo between a teacher and a high school girl is about to begin!
Shinnosuke Tachibana voices Reijiro Enokizu, a striking young man with an eyepatch who shares a deep connection with Chuzenji from their student days. Shuya Nishiji will portray Tatsumi Sekiguchi, a socially anxious researcher, and Takanori Hoshino will voice Shutaro Kiba, a policeman and childhood friend of Reijiro.
Two additional cast members have been announced, Mitsuru Miyamoto as Soichiro Enokizu, Reijiro’s older brother, and Kaoru Sakura as Yukie, a close friend of Chizuko and Sekiguchi. Both cast members have shared their enthusiasm for joining the series, with Miyamoto expressing his love for the Showa era atmosphere and Sakura reflecting on the joy of voicing a character that resonated with her.
Soichiro Enokizu (voiced by Mitsuru Miyamoto) – Comment
I love stories set in the Showa era. Despite the hardships, people helped each other, the streets were full of energy, and there was a warm atmosphere. Through my appearances, I truly enjoyed immersing myself in the captivating world of Showa that this work portrays. I hope you all enjoy it too!
Being able to lend my voice to a work that once thrilled me is an absolute joy. Unexpected oddities lurking in daily life, quirky yet delightful characters… If I was able to bring warmth to Yukie in the midst of it all, I would be truly happy. Let’s look forward to the broadcast in April together!
– via Press Release
Series’ OP and ED
The opening theme song will be “She Is Now in the Labyrinth,” performed by HoneyWorks, featuring the rising virtual singer KAF. The song encapsulates the building emotional intensity of the anime. The ending theme, “Things You Don’t Know” by Sizuk, blends delicate arrangements with a modern edge, capturing the eerie beauty of the series.
In an official statement, KAF shared her excitement about collaborating with HoneyWorks, emphasizing how the song captures a sense of expanding emotions. Meanwhile, Shunryu, composer of the ending theme, described the track as embodying the fascination and hesitation we feel when facing the unknown, perfectly fitting the anime’s mysterious tone.
I’m honored to be working with HoneyWorks on the opening theme song for the TV anime “The Mononoke Lecture Logs of Chuzenji-sensei: He Just Solves All the Mysteries”, airing in April 2025! The title of the song is “She Is Now in the Labyrinth” I had the privilege of singing this track, and as the chorus builds, it feels as if the scenery expands, and emotions intensify. I experimented a lot during the recording to capture that essence! I hope you’ll enjoy both the anime and the song’s release!
– via Press Release
Shunryu (Ending Theme Artist) – Comment
The song expresses the emotions many of us have felt—fascination with fear, the hesitation of whether to move forward or retreat. Getting lost in mysterious thoughts can be part of growth, and I wanted listeners to feel that after hearing the song. ANCHOR’s delicate yet intense arrangement blends the atmosphere of the early Showa era with a modern sense of exhilaration. I also encourage you to pay attention to Shihori’s lyrics, which are both mysterious and deeply comforting. Through AYAME’s voice, which carries both youth and strength, I hope you can almost smell the books in Chuzenji-sensei’s library prep room.
Fans can look forward to The Mononoke Lecture Logs of Chuzenji-sensei: He Just Solves All the Mysteries starting April 7, with the full first trailer available now.
Shinichirō Watanabe is a renowned Japanese anime director, writer, and producer celebrated for his unique storytelling, music-blending, and unforgettable characters. Best known for his groundbreaking works Cowboy Bebop (1998) and Samurai Champloo (2004), Watanabe masterfully fuses action, music, and philosophy, creating timeless anime that continue to inspire fans worldwide.
His portfolio also includes acclaimed titles like Kids on the Slope (2012), Space Dandy (2014), and Carole & Tuesday (2019), each showcasing his signature style of deep narratives and genre-defying creativity. Most recently, he is making waves with his highly anticipated sci-fi thriller, Lazarus which is set to premiere this year exclusively on Netflix.
Watanabe was a Guest of Honor at this year’s Anime Los Angeles in Long Beach, California, and we had the incredible opportunity to sit down with him! In this exclusive interview, we dive into his latest project, Lazarus, and uncover the creative vision behind his newest masterpiece. Don’t miss this must-watch conversation with one of anime’s greatest storytellers!
Special thanks to Jo Ann Faustino, Takayuki Karahashi of The Green Room International, and Otaku Hourly for making this interview possible! I would also like to extend my gratitude to Vincent Reyes for their ongoing dedication and hard work as our Field Production Assistant, ensuring our interviews run seamlessly.
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Sentenced to Be a Hero -The Prison Records of Penal Hero Unit 9004- is officially set to air in 2025, bringing an action-packed, dark fantasy story to the screen. Based on the award-winning light novel series by Rocket Shokai, this highly anticipated anime promises intense battles, unique characters, and a deep dive into a world where criminals are forced into heroic service.
The second teaser visual for Sentenced to Be a Hero has just been released, showcasing the protagonist, Xylo Forbartz, preparing to face a formidable adversary. Fans also got a special treat with the announcement of the cast for the lead roles—Yohei Azakami and Mayu Iizuka will voice Xylo and Teoritta, respectively.
CAST COMMENTS
Xylo Forbartz, once the leader of the Holy Knights, is now a “Punishment Hero” after committing the grave crime of killing a Goddess. With exceptional combat skills and leadership abilities, Xylo is tasked with leading a penal unit of prisoners sentenced to fight for the greater good in an ongoing war against the Demon Lords. His voice will be brought to life by the talented Yohei Azakami, known for his roles in Re:Zero and Tokyo Revengers.
“First, please watch the teaser PV. Honestly, this one sentence sums it all up. Although it was released before the recording session, I was immediately drawn into the world of the work by its beautiful animation and dynamic soundtrack. The joy and pressure of playing Xylo. Amidst the chaotic emotions and the flow of blood coursing through my body, I am preparing for battle. To the fans of the work and those who will become fans in the future, I sincerely hope you will fully enjoy the world of the Punishment Heroes, starting with this “despair.” Thank you very much.
Teoritta is the “Goddess” of swords who has formed a contract with Xylo. She can summon a wide range of swords, including Holy Swords and demonic swords. While she has a high sense of pride and loves being praised, she also shows self-sacrificing behavior, epitomizing the classic traits of a “Goddess”. She enjoys having her head patted.
The battles of the unique and diverse prisoners sentenced as Punishment Heroes! As I read the original work, I was completely drawn into its world. I’m so happy to be a part of such a project. Have you all seen the teaser PV!? As the “Goddess”, I’m really looking forward to seeing Teoritta’s dignified battle scenes and her cute, innocent moments in daily life. I’m excited for everyone to see all sides of her in the animation!
Behind-the-Scenes Project and Character Insights!
To celebrate the upcoming anime release, beginning today a new behind-the-scenes production project titled Sentenced to Be a Hero Animation Production Chronicles offers fans exclusive insights into the creative process. This project will include concept designs, illustrations, and interviews with the production staff, all leading up to the anime’s broadcast.
Additionally, Explanation Chronicles will delve deeper into the unique terms and lore of the series, giving fans an enhanced understanding of the story’s rich world-building. Both projects will gradually release content—be sure to stay tuned for updates!
About Sentenced to Be a Hero
Originally a self-published light novel series that debuted in 2020, Sentenced to Be a Hero quickly gained popularity and recognition, winning several prestigious awards, including the Kakuyomu Award 2020 and This Light Novel is Amazing! 2023. Set in a dark fantasy world, the series follows Xylo Forbartz, a convicted criminal forced to serve as a “Hero” in a penal military unit. The convict heroes fight to defend humanity against the Demon Lords—resurrecting upon death to battle again if necessary.
The anime adaptation is produced by Studio KAI, renowned for its vibrant animation and gripping storytelling. Fans can also look forward to the upcoming release of Volume 4 of the light novel in May 2025.
Synopsis
In a world where criminals are sentenced to serve as “Heroes,” Xylo Forbartz, a former leader of the Holy Knights, is forced into military service as part of a penal unit. Together with Teoritta, a Goddess of swords, Xylo leads a group of criminals in a war against the Demon Lords. The unit must fight through despair, struggling with both their pasts and their fate. Their survival hinges on their ability to fight—resurrected again and again in an endless cycle.
Staff Original Work: Rocket Shokai (Kadokawa Dengeki no Shinbungei) Original Illustration: MEPHISTO Animation Studio: Studio KAI
Main Cast Xylo Forbartz: Yohei Azakami Teoritta: Mayu Iizuka
The highly anticipated anime adaptation of The Mononoke Lecture Logs of Chuzenji-sensei: He Just Solves All the Mysteries is officially set to air in April 2025! This supernatural school mystery, based on a spin-off manga by Aki Shimizu, serves as a prequel to the acclaimed Hyakki Yako novel series by Natsuhiko Kyogoku, which has sold over 10 million copies worldwide.
Set in post-war Tokyo in 1948, the story follows Kanna Kusakabe, a high school girl, and Akihiko Chuzenji, a surly new literature teacher, as they tackle a series of mysterious supernatural incidents at school. The anime blends youthful drama, eerie mysteries, and a sprinkle of humor in an intriguing narrative.
New Cast Members Announced
Adding to the excitement, three additional cast members have been confirmed:
Shinnosuke Tachibana as Reijiro Enokizu, a dashing young man with an eyepatch and a complicated past with Chuzenji.
Shuya Nishiji as Takumi Sekiguchi, a socially anxious researcher with a passion for myxomycetes.
Takanori Hoshino as Shutaro Kiba, a dependable police officer and childhood friend of Enokizu.
When I knew the audition results that I would get to play Reijiro Enokizu, I was genuinely thrilled! And… I’m really looking forward to seeing how the humor and fear of the original story will be brought to life in the anime.
Every character in the story is full of quirks and quite a handful, but during the recording sessions, hearing the performances of the cast brought these “troublesome” characters to life in a way that made them seem so endearing and lovable. Everyone is truly charming. I’m excited to watch the broadcast!
I’m Takanori Hoshino, and I’ll be playing the role of Shutaro Kiba! Kiba is a dependable adult, a warm-hearted friend, and a character who I think will resonate with viewers, sharing in their surprises and reactions throughout the story. He appears quite frequently, too! Please look forward to it!
– via press release
Key Visuals and Teaser Trailer Released
A teaser trailer has also been released, offering a glimpse into the suspenseful and atmospheric world of Chuzenji-sensei.
Music: Keichi Hirokawa and Ryuichi Takada (MONACA)
Studio: 100studio
The Mononoke Lecture Logs of Chuzenji-sensei will air in Japan beginning April 2025. For more information, visit the official website or follow the anime on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
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The beloved isekai series Noble Reincarnation ~Born Blessed, So I’ll Obtain Ultimate Power~ by Nazuna Miki has officially announced its anime adaptation. Followers of the series can look forward to a high-energy adventure following Noa, the thirteenth prince of the emperor, whose reincarnation gifts him with an infinite level cap and an unparalleled cheat skill that absorbs the abilities of others.
Thanks to all of you！ The anime adaptation of “Noble Reincarnation ~Born Blessed, So I’ll Obtain Ultimate Power~” has been decided! One of the concepts of this work is to “thoroughly pursue the ideal image of nobility in another world,” and I have always been anxious about whether this would be accepted. However, to all of you who read it on “Shousetsuka ni Narou”, to those who read the original novel, and to those who read the manga adaptation— It is thanks to your strong support that we have reached the point of an anime adaptation. With the best staff coming together for the anime, I am confident that it will be a wonderful work. I ask for your continued support for the anime “Noble Reincarnation.”
– via press release
Comment from the Character Designer, kyo
Congratulations on the anime adaptation of “Noble Reincarnation ~Born Blessed, So I’ll Obtain Ultimate Power~”! When the first volume of “Noble Reincarnation” was released, I had great conversations with Nazuna Miki-sensei and the fans about what it would be like if it were adapted into an anime, but I never imagined it would actually happen…! I’ve enjoyed the manga adaptation every time, and now that the anime is coming, it’s just the best! I am filled with gratitude to everyone who has read it. I’ll be looking forward to it and will continue to support it as well.
– via press release
About the Story
Noa, reincarnated into the prestigious imperial family, uses his exceptional abilities to navigate the complexities of aristocratic life. With over 1.5 million copies sold, this thrilling blend of action, strategy, and character-driven drama has captivated fans worldwide.
Stay tuned for more details about the anime, including airing dates and production updates, on the official website kizoku-tensei.com and social media platforms. Follow the adventure of the ultimate isekai prince as he redefines power and nobility!
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BanG Deam fans can descend into the dark rhapsody of “KiLLKiSS”, the powerful opening theme for the highly anticipated gothic thriller anime BanG Dream! Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast –. Performed by Ave Mujica, the track combines their signature symphonic metal style with a dark and immersive narrative, setting the perfect tone for the series.
“KiLLKiSS” is the result of a stellar collaboration. The track features composition by Daisuke Hasegawa and lyrics by Diggy-MO.
A Dark Tale in the BanG Dream! Universe
BanG Dream! Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast – is the latest addition to the BanG Dream! franchise, turning the spotlight on the mysterious band Ave Mujica. Premiering worldwide TODAY January 2, 2025, and available on Crunchyroll, this intriguing series delves into the complexities of the music industry, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and hidden pasts through its gripping storyline and engaging sound.
For fans eager to revisit Ave Mujica’s captivating sound, “KiLLKiSS” will be available for streaming on Spotify starting January 8, 2025. The physical single, scheduled for release on January 15, 2025, will include both the opening and ending theme songs (Regular edition CD jacket). A limited-edition version will come with an exclusive Blu-ray featuring Ave Mujica’s 3rd LIVE “Veritas,” a concert that took place on October 13, 2024, at the scenic Kawaguchiko Stella Theater.
Regular edition CD jacket Limited edition CD jacket
Ave Mujica at “Ave Mujica 3rd LIVE ‘Veritas'” on October 13, 2024
Meet Ave Mujica
Band Visual Image
Ave Mujica stands out in the BanG Dream! universe for their gothic-themed aesthetic and enigmatic performances. The band’s lineup includes:
Uika Misumi (Doloris): Lead guitar and vocals
Mutsumi Wakaba (Felicitas): Rhythm guitar
Umiri Yahata (Beatrix): Bass
Nyamu Yūtenji (Amoris): Drums
Sakiko Togawa (Sicil): Keyboards
Their music blends symphonic elements with heavy metal, creating a hauntingly unique soundscape that perfectly complements their dark, theatrical persona.
For more information about BanG Dream! Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast –, including episode guides and character profiles, visit the official website. Be sure to follow Ave Mujica’s official social media channels to stay updated on their latest performances and releases.
Whether you’re a long-time BanG Dream! fan or new to the series, BanG Dream! Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast – promises to lead you on a symphonic journey into the depths of gothic metal. Experience the thrill today!
The beloved manga series Solo Camping For Two by Yudai Debata has surpassed a remarkable milestone, with over 3 million copies in sold. Fans have even more to celebrate following the announcement of a live-action drama adaptation set to premiere on January 9th on TOKYO MX. Adding to the excitement, the series will also be adapted into a TV anime, scheduled to air in July 2025.
The narrative follows Gen Kinokura, an experienced solo camper who values his solitude above all else. His peaceful lifestyle takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Shizuku Kusano, a cheerful but inexperienced camper. This chance meeting evolves into an unconventional partnership, creating a dynamic the series dubs “solo camping for two.”
PONY CANYON INC. describes the series as follows,
Gen Kinokura, 34 years old. A solitary camper who cherishes his alone time in nature, Gen enjoys his usual solo camping trips. However, when he’s about to head home after one of his trips, he unexpectedly encounters Shizuku Kusano, a complete beginner in camping. Reluctantly, Gen ends up camping with Shizuku, despite it being the last thing he wanted to do. What will become of Gen’s peaceful camping life now that it’s turned upside down by this new companion?
– Gen Kinokura (Voiced by: Daiki Hamano) The main protagonist, 34 years old. A true solo camper who finds solace and joy in solitude. While immersed in the tranquility of nature, he unexpectedly meets Shizuku, a woman who turns out to be exactly the opposite of his ideal camping companion.
– Shizuku Kusano (Voiced by: Mizuki Niizaki) The heroine of the story, 20 years old. A beginner camper who after meeting Gen during her first camping experience, decides to apprentice under him. She proposes the idea of solo camping for two, much to Gen’s reluctance.
Daiki Hamano (Voice of Gen Kinokura)
Hello, this is Daiki Hamano, playing the role of Gen Kinokura. As his name suggests, Gen is a stubborn man. While he struggles with personal relationships, he’s incredibly passionate and deeply dedicated when it comes to camping. To portray him, I’ve tried to embody the essence of an “old-school Showaera man” while also capturing the charm of someone who lives for his hobbies and dreams. Personally, I really admire people who are passionate and straightforward, so playing Gen has been a truly enjoyable experience for me.
When it comes to my own camping memories, a few stand out. During middle school, I participated in a school trip to Mount Tsukuba, where we had a campfire and performed skits with the entire grade. In high school, while living in Sydney, I took part in a survival camp in the Blue Mountains. Although these weren’t solo camping trips, both experiences left a lasting impression on me. At Mount Tsukuba, we shared stories and laughter around the campfire, while the Blue Mountains trip involved a five-day survival adventure where we carried all our food, utensils, and camping gear ourselves, planning our route from start to finish. Both are unforgettable memories.
Recording sessions for this series often feature intimate scenes with just a few characters, which has fostered a close, almost familial atmosphere among the cast. Led by narrator Shimura-san and dialect coach Shiro-san, we’ve shared many lively conversations about things like “what kind of camping we’d love to try” or “what food we’d want to cook.” Despite all the fun, we approach the performances and the story with great seriousness, carefully considering every word and line delivery. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience. To all Solo Camping For Two fans and camping enthusiasts, I truly hope you’ll enjoy this unique take on the challenges and joys of camping. Camping really is the best, isn’t it? I hope this series inspires you to cook, explore, and embrace the camping spirit. And if we ever meet at a campsite someday, let’s try a little solo camping for two together!
Mizuki Niizaki (Voice of Shizuku Kusano)
Hello, nice to meet you! I’m Mizuki Niizaki, and I’ll be voicing Shizuku Kusano. Didn’t you wonder, “What does Solo Camping For Two even mean?” I certainly did when I first heard the title. I discovered the series during the audition process, and I was immediately intrigued by the idea of enjoying both camping and cooking knowledge all at once! In reality, I’ve never gone camping myself, as I’m more of an indoor person, but I’m excited to learn about camping alongside Shizuku.
Shizuku can be a bit pushy at times, but she’s incredibly earnest and sincere. So, I’ve tried to bring out as much of my own sincerity as possible when voicing her. I hope you’ll enjoy watching Shizuku grow throughout the series. Also, her Nagasaki dialect, which appears frequently, adds to her charm, so I’ve made sure to study it carefully. I hope you’ll look forward to that as well! This is actually my first regular anime role, and I’ve been nervous but excited at every recording session. However, with the guidance and advice I’ve received from Daiki Hamano, just like Shizuku learning from Gen, I feel like I’m growing with each session. I really hope the atmosphere of Solo Camping For Two reaches you all. Let’s enjoy both the camping and gourmet aspects of this show together!
A Special Celebration
To mark this exciting milestone, creator Yudai Debata unveiled a commemorative illustration featuring Shizuku and Gen celebrating the anime adaptation.
As Gen and Shizuku tackle the challenges of camping together and discover the joys of nature in their unique ways, fans can look forward to a heartwarming and refreshing adventure. Don’t miss the premiere of Solo Camping For Two in July 2025!
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The wait is over! Fans of the outrageous and genre-defying anime Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt can finally celebrate as the teaser PV for the highly anticipated sequel, New Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt, has dropped! This bold and vibrant series, known for its distinctive cartoon-like animation style and raunchy humor, first aired in 2010 and became a global sensation. Now, Studio TRIGGER is bringing the series back with all the flair and chaos fans love.
The teaser PV not only showcases the series’ iconic visual style but also introduces the returning and new voice cast! Arisa Ogasawara is back as the ever-sassy Panty, alongside Mariya Ise, who reprises her role as the gothic and sweet-toothed Stocking. Joining them is Akeno Watanabe as Knee Socks and Yuko Natsuyoshi as the mischievous Fastener, along with many familiar voices returning from the original series.
In addition to the cast, the production team has unveiled more key staff members and details about the music. ☆Taku Takahashi of m-flo and TeddyLoid, the powerhouse duo behind the original series’ unforgettable soundtrack, are confirmed to return. With their dynamic soundscapes, fans can expect music that perfectly complements the chaos and charm of the returning series.
Japanese voice casts comments
Arisa Ogasawara / Panty,
This is Arisa Ogasawara, the voice of Panty. I couldn’t believe it when I first heard that “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt” is coming back! I thought “Huh? No way! Is this a joke?!” But it’s true! And to top it off, it’s been 14 years… I’m super surprised! I’m really excited to meet the “bitches” again. Whether you’ve seen “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt” before, never watched it, or watched it but couldn’t quite understand it, I hope you’re looking forward to it!
– via press release
Mariya Ise / Stocking,
No way… Is the legendary anime “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt”… coming back?!?! I’m definitely not the only one who has been eagerly waiting for a new series… It’s going to come back even stronger and cause chaos in Daten City!! Please look forward to it!!
– via press release
Koji Ishii / Garterbelt,
Ah, so it’s being renewed… I wonder who will act Garterbelt,” I thought, and then it turned out to be me. I was honestly surprised to be taking on that physically demanding role after 14 years, and I realized that I’d have to push myself and get in shape to handle it. After all, as you all know, it’s quite a serious role… So, I’m fully focused and deter to approach it with seriousness and dedication.
– via press release
Hiroyuki Yoshino / Brief,
Wow, are we really going to release this work into a world so full of restrictions…? To everyone who enjoyed the previous series, of course, and to those who are experiencing ”Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt” for the first time with this new installment, I’d be so happy if you could enjoy this bold, no-holds-barred, unapologetic work—one that hides nothing and shies away from nothing!
– via press release
☆Taku Takahashi (m-flo),
I’m really happy to be able to participate again in such an experimental and bold work among the TRIGGER productions. Each episode has its own unique tone and I had a great time creating music in a variety of styles to match that. This time, we also worked on the production while having sessions with different track makers. Compared to the previous series, I was able to communicate even more closely with the TRIGGER staff, so I’d love for you to check out how the visuals and music synchronize this time!
– via press release
After its 14-year hiatus, New Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt is shaping up to be an electrifying continuation of the cult classic. For updates the series, visit the official website (Japanese).
What are you most excited to see in the new series? Let us know in the comments below!
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MAKE A GIRL had its world premiere at the Global Stage Hollywood 2024 Film Festival on November 3rd! The new and upcoming animated film is directed by Gensho Yasuda, an independent artist and rising star in the world of Japanese animation. The film began as a crowdfunding campaign where it met its goal of 10 million yen to bring this film to life. The film is set to premiere in Japan on January 2025. I had the opportunity to watch MAKE A GIRL , ahead of its Japanese premiere, a rarity in anime.
Dir.Yasuda Gensho, and lead actress Tanezaki Atsumi, (No. 0) at the Global Stage Hollywood 2024 Film Festival | Source
Prior to watching this movie, I only knew a few bits and pieces about it and had never heard of Gensho Yasuda. The first time I heard about him and his work, was through my colleague’s interview from this year’s Anime Expo. I approached the movie with no expectations, just hoping it would be enjoyable. I must say, the movie was unexpectedly amazing!
Amazing CGI Animation
What truly surprised me about MAKE A GIRL was its CGI animation. For me, CGI-animated movies can be hit or miss, but this one was absolutely stunning. The animation was crisp, clean, and packed with detail. From the subtle character movements to the dynamic action scenes, every moment felt alive and engaging. It’s clear that an incredible amount of time and effort went into bringing this film to life. It’s been a while since I’ve seen CGI animation this impressive, and MAKE A GIRL has definitely earned a spot on my list of outstanding examples of the craft.
MAKE A GIRL is both intriguing and enjoyable. In the aforementioned interview, director Gensho Yasuda shared that the plot was inspired by the phrase “make a girlfriend” and its various interpretations. While I’m not sure if this was his original intent, I saw the plot from a different perspective. To me, the film explores the many meanings of love and what it truly means to be alive. This theme is beautifully conveyed through the interactions between Akira, the main character, and Zero, the girlfriend he creates. Their unique relationship brings depth and emotion to the story.
The movie is full of unexpected twists, especially when it comes to Akira’s backstory and the ending. The final twist ties beautifully back to the film’s opening, creating a seamless connection. Without giving too much away, there’s a key moment where characters, Zero and Akira share an emotional conversation about their relationship. I highly recommend watching this film—it truly resonated with me and brought my interpretation to life.
MAKE A GIRL is an impressive film with breathtaking CGI animation and a captivating story. Coming in with no expectations, I was pleasantly surprised by how well-thought-out the plot and characters were. The animation truly stood out—it was clean, smooth, and an absolute visual delight. As someone who doesn’t watch much CGI animation, it’s been a while since I’ve seen work this polished, making MAKE A GIRL a must-watch for anime fans.
The film set to release on January 31st of the incoming year, I highly recommend watching this movie when it gets its international debut.
This marks the first full-length theatrical project by animator Gensho Yasuda, who has amassed over 6 million followers across YouTube, TikTok, and other platforms. Known for his 3D short animations, music videos, and corporate promos, Yasuda’s work has been praised both in Japan and abroad. MAKE A GIRL is a completely original story, brought to life with 100% 3DCG and described as “300% Gensho Yasuda purity.” Its success is already evident—the crowdfunding campaign exceeded its goal by 230%, showcasing Yasuda’s incredible popularity and the high anticipation for this film.
KADOKAWA describes the film as follows,
The story takes place in the near future: Akira Mizutamari, a scientific genius who succeeded in developing and commercializing SALT, a robot that supports people’s lives, finds himself stuck in a rut when all of his new inventions fail. After hearing from a friend that he can “power up” by creating a girlfriend, he does literally that and scientifically creates an “artificial” girlfriend named “No. Zero”. Torn between her programmed emotions and her growing feelings, No. Zero starts to waver. Is it “love” that buds between her and Akira, who is unaccustomed to communicating with others, or perhaps something else?
The fascinating characters for this story are played by Atsumi Tanezaki (No. Zero), who has shown her ability to transform from one character to another in roles such as Anya in “SPY x FAMILY” and Frieren in “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End”, and Shun Horie (Akira Mizutamari), who has been selected for leading roles in various popular works, including Kyoutarou Ichikawa in “The Dangers in My Heart”. Gensho Yasuda’s unpredictable super-new cyber love suspense animation is now coming to the world ──!
Read our interview with Make A Girl director, Gensho Yasuda during Anime Expo 2024 here. For more updates and information visit the film’s official website (Japanese).
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