TV TOKYO has officially announced the world premiere of its newest Gintama anime spin-off, GINTAMA – Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class, set to debut at Anime Expo 2025. The event will take place on Saturday, July 5, 2025, from 3:30 PM to 4:20 PM PDT in Panel Room 408AB at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This highly anticipated panel will give fans the first chance to watch a full episode of the new comedy series, along with exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and special messages from the voice cast.
Based on the Gintama spin-off novel 3-nen Z-gumi Ginpachi-sensei, the new anime reimagines the eccentric Gintoki Sakata as a chaotic high school teacher. Alongside his equally bizarre students, Ginpachi delivers life lessons in the most absurd and unpredictable ways, channeling the same brand of humor that made the original Gintama series a cult favorite.
The premiere panel promises to be more than just a screening. Fans can expect a video message from the beloved Odd Jobs trio: Gintoki (Tomokazu Sugita), Shinpachi (Daisuke Sakaguchi), and Kagura (Rie Kugimiya). In addition, attendees will get a look behind the curtain at the anime’s creative development and will be the first to see brand-new Gintama merchandise reveals. There will also be giveaways and quizzes during the panel, giving lucky fans the chance to win exclusive Gintama goods.
Panel Information Title: [WORLD PREMIERE] GINTAMA – Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class Date: Saturday, July 5, 2025 Time: 3:30 PM to 4:20 PM PDT Location: Panel Room 408AB at Los Angeles Convention Center
“We are incredibly proud to bring the world premiere of ‘GINTAMA – Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class’ to Anime Expo 2025, a premier event for anime enthusiasts,” said Makoto Hijikata, Producer at TV TOKYO. “This spin-off offers a fresh and hilarious take on the beloved Gintama world, and we eagerly anticipate sharing it with fans for the very first time.”
GINTAMA – Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class continues the series’ legacy of irreverent comedy and sharp social commentary, this time within the halls of a high school run by the ever-chaotic Ginpachi-sensei. The series is expected to deliver the same unpredictable antics and genre-bending humor that defined the original franchise.
Anime Expo 2025 runs from July 3 to 6 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. For tickets and full programming details, visit www.anime-expo.org.
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Paru Itagaki, the acclaimed creator of BEASTARS, returns with a bold and offbeat new anime titled SANDA, an unconventional Santa Claus action series adapted from her original manga. Produced by Science SARU (DAN DA DAN, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off), SANDA is set in a dystopian near-future Japan where extreme child protection laws exist to combat a super-declining birthrate. The TV anime will premiere in Japan on October 3, 2025, with a world premiere event scheduled for Anime Expo 2025 in Los Angeles.
Anime Expo 2025 will host the global debut of SANDA on July 4 at the JW Marriott’s Platinum Ballroom. The special event will include a screening of the anime’s first episode, a live drawing session with Paru Itagaki, scene commentary, a Q&A with the creative team, and a guest message from lead voice actor Ayumu Murase, who plays the title role. Attendees will also receive an exclusive SANDA-themed towel.
Joining Itagaki at the event are director Tomohisa Shimoyama and producer Kohei Sakita of Science SARU. The anime’s storyline follows protagonist Kazushige Sanda, a boy living in a society where children are scarce, and Santa Claus has become a hidden, sealed-away figure. Sanda’s journey begins when his connection to Santa is awakened in a world that has forgotten him.
The second teaser PV for the series has also been released, introducing a cast of Sanda’s classmates at Daikoku Welfare Academy. In a world dominated by overprotection and state-mandated adult responsibilities, the trailer raises key questions: how is Santa Claus perceived in an age without children, and what role will Sanda play in uncovering buried truths?
The new cast includes Umeka Shoji as Shiori Fuyumura, a towering classmate who seeks Sanda’s help to rescue her missing friend. Anna Nagase voices Ichie Ono, the vanished best friend at the center of the mystery. Yuuki Shin plays Hitoshi Amaya, Sanda’s enigmatic roommate, and Misato Matsuoka voices Nico Kazao, Sanda’s government-assigned fiancée.
Cast Comments
Shiori Fuyumura (Voiced by Umeka Shoji) –
A 14-year-old classmate of Sanda who stands over 182 cm tall. She seeks help from Santa Claus to find her friend Ono, who suddenly went missing. To break the curse and revive the sealed Santa, she threatens Sanda with a deadly blade.
How did you feel when you were cast as Fuyumura in SANDA? And what message do you have for fans looking forward to the series?
Meeting Shiori Fuyumura during the audition was such a powerful experience that it feels like she’s become a constant presence in my life. I poured everything I have into this role. I’d be thrilled if SANDA reaches a wide audience.
Since this is an action series featuring Santa Claus, is there anything you’d want to ask him for?
A liver so strong that it can handle any alcohol.
Ichie Ono (Voiced by Anna Nagase) –
A classmate of Sanda and best friend of Fuyumura. She suddenly disappeared from their class, and her whereabouts remain unknown. The school considers her dead, but Fuyumura is determined to search for her with Santa Claus’ help.
How did you feel when you were cast as Ono in SANDA? And what message do you have for fans looking forward to the series?
Ono was a role that really challenged me. I struggled a lot while developing the character, and I constantly felt a sense of anxiety and tightness in my chest. I hope that feeling comes through in Ono’s portrayal. Please look forward to the broadcast!
Since this is an action series featuring Santa Claus, is there anything you’d want to ask him for?
When I was a kid, I was always the one receiving presents, so this time, I’d like to give something back. Maybe I could help out? Like riding in the sleigh with Santa and delivering presents around town! That sounds like fun.
Hitoshi Amaya (Voiced by Yuuki Shin)–
Sanda’s roommate, also known as “Prince Amaya.” He is one of the few who know Santa Claus’ secret and wants him to return to fulfill an important wish.
How did you feel when you were cast as Amaya in SANDA? And what message do you have for fans looking forward to the series?
I’m really excited to be voicing Amaya in SANDA. I enjoyed bringing out his mysterious charm through my performance. This story really makes you reflect on what it means to be an adult. It’s a wonderful series, so please be sure to watch it!
Since this is an action series featuring Santa Claus, is there anything you’d want to ask him for?
I’d love to ask Santa Claus for a Nintendo Switch 2. Even if I don’t get one, just a chance to win the pre-order lottery would be great. I’ve been good, so please! I’d like to play racing games on it!
Nico Kazao (Voiced by Misato Matsuoka) –
Sanda’s fiancée, chosen by the country from birth. She’s a realist who wants to rebel a little before becoming a “responsible adult.” She always acts freely and often swears.
How did you feel when you were cast as Nico in SANDA? And what message do you have for fans looking forward to the series?
When I first learned about Nico, I was deeply captivated by her complete freedom from any constraints. She might be someone who truly understands the preciousness of the present moment. I’m genuinely happy to be able to bring her to life! Please watch as these lovable characters struggle and grow together. I poured my heart into this role and had a great time. Thank you for your support!
Since this is an action series featuring Santa Claus, is there anything you’d want to ask him for?
I love eggplant, so I’d want lots of dishes like deep-fried eggplant soaked in light dashi and mapo eggplant!
SANDA is coming to town!
SANDA blends action, social satire, and coming-of-age drama with a uniquely surreal twist on the Santa Claus mythos. The series is directed by Tomohisa Shimoyama, written by Kimiko Ueno, with music by Tomoyuki Tanaka (FPM) and character designs by Masamichi Ishiyama. Animation is handled by Science SARU.
Broadcast for SANDA begins October 3, 2025. For updates and teaser content, follow the official X account @sanda_anime and visit the official website at sanda.red .
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Baku Kinoshita and Kazuya Konomoto, the acclaimed duo behind the cult hit ODDTAXI, are set to return with a powerful new original anime film, The Last Blossom (Japanese title: HOUSENKA), scheduled to premiere in Japan in Fall 2025. Produced by CLAP Animation Studio, known for their work on Pompo: The Cinephile and The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes, the film will explore themes of mortality, memory, and the quiet ache of redemption.
The film has already drawn international acclaim, having been selected for the prestigious Feature Film Competition at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2025. It previously appeared at Annecy 2024 as a Work in Progress, with director Baku Kinoshita, producer Ryoichiro Matsuo, and concept artist Michinoku Toge offering early insight into the creative vision behind the film.
The story follows Minoru Akutsu, an elderly yakuza serving a life sentence in solitary confinement. Awaiting death in silence, he is suddenly confronted by an unlikely visitor—a talking balsam flower named Housenka. “What a pathetic life,” the flower whispers, prompting Akutsu to revisit the regrets and relationships of his past. As fragments of his life unfold, the film weaves a meditation on lost love, quiet prayers, and the delicate possibility of personal redemption.
The cast features a dual performance for the role of Akutsu. Veteran actor Kaoru Kobayashi voices the elder version of the character, while rising talent Junki Tozuka makes his voice acting debut as the younger Akutsu. Hikari Mitsushima, known for her work across acting, music, and narration, voices Nana Nagata, Akutsu’s former partner. Yoshiko Miyazaki joins the cast in a supporting role, while the enigmatic Housenka is voiced by Pierre Taki, last seen in Netflix’s Tokyo Swindlers.
Creator’s Comments
Baku Kinoshita (Director & Character Design)
The beauty of the blue sky. The brilliance of leaves kissed by sunlight. The quiet meaning behind caring for someone. This film is a reflection on beauty, transience, and the values of happiness—and how these things shape our lives. With a desire to return to the essence of living, I aimed to portray the quiet strength that lies within us as we navigate our ever-changing days. I truly hope this story reaches many people and gently resonates in their hearts.
Kazuya Konomoto (Script / Screenplay)
Even in an unrewarded life, we are free to pray. Whether those prayers will ever be answered—we may never know. But still, I wanted to believe. HOUSENKA is the story of a man who has lost the place he once called home, and the silence that lingers between him and his lover. Into that silence, a single flower quietly blooms, giving rise to words that had long withered away. Before the flower could bloom, there were countless moments of silence—and one quiet, unwavering prayer. I hope that the small certainty born at the end of that long silence and prayer will quietly plant a seed in your heart, too.
The film’s soundtrack is composed by members of the band cero, known for their genre-blending musical style. Shohei Takagi, Yu Arauchi, and Tsubasa Hashimoto bring emotional texture to the narrative with their deeply atmospheric compositions.
@ Anime Expo 2025
Heading to Anime Expo? the creators will host a panel to share exclusive insights into the film’s story and production process. If you’re looking for a first glimpse into the world of The Last Blossom, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Panel Details:
Where: LACC – Room 404AB
Date: July 4
Time: 4:15 PM – 5:05 PM
Guests: Baku Kinoshita (Director & Character Designer),Ryoichiro Matsuo (Producer),Hirofumi Ito(Producer)
The Last Blossom is a deeply introspective film that promises to resonate with viewers long after the credits roll. With its striking blend of realism, surrealism, and emotional weight, it continues the creative legacy of ODDTAXI while carving out a powerful space of its own.
Visit the official website anime-housenka.com and follow @anime_housenka on X and Instagram for the latest updates.
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2K DCP Restoration of Anno’s 1998 Live-Action Debut Hits New York and Los Angeles THIS month!
In a groundbreaking moment for anime fans and Japanese cinema enthusiasts alike, Hideaki Anno’s LOVE & POP, his first-ever live-action feature, will have its first-ever North American theatrical release. The 1998 film, originally shot with handheld digital cameras, will be presented in a newly restored 2K DCP format with technical adjustments for its upcoming screenings.
LOVE & POP will debut at the IFC Center in New York City on February 21, followed by a release at the American Cinematheque’s Los Feliz 3 in Los Angeles starting February 23, with additional cities to be announced soon.
The premiere of the new restoration took place on February 1 at New York City’s Japan Society, marking a significant step in bringing this underappreciated gem to a wider audience.
Film Synopsis:
Set in July 1997, LOVE & POP follows Tokyo schoolgirl Hiromi and her friends as they spend their summer dating older men for money. With just a cellphone in hand, Hiromi embarks on a mission to raise ¥128,000, aiming to buy an expensive topaz ring before the mall closes for the day.
Based on the novel by Ryū Murakami, LOVE & POP is a daring exploration of youth and identity from Anno, best known as the creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion. The film’s radical approach to storytelling—filmed using handheld digital cameras, distorted lenses, and a mix of unconventional angles—offers a raw, immersive portrait of Japanese teenage life on the cusp of the 21st century. Despite being largely overlooked for years, LOVE & POP stands as a unique snapshot of a generation’s struggles with alienation and self-discovery.
Running Time: 110 minutes Theme Song: “Ano subarashii ai wo mouichido” by Asumi Miwa
LOVE & POP promises to be a visual and emotional experience for audiences, highlighting Anno’s bold approach to filmmaking before his iconic contributions to anime. Fans of his work in Evangelion will find much to appreciate in this unique live-action debut.
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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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Fans of the supernatural comedy manga Ghost Cat Anzu are in for a treat with the upcoming animated film adaptation. However, this film isn’t just a direct translation of the manga — it’s taking a bold new approach. While the original manga series charmed readers with lighthearted, comedic antics, the film adds a more adventurous twist to the familiar story of Anzu, the mischievous ghost cat.
Meet The Makers
The film is a collaboration between directors Kuno Yoko and Nobuhiro Yamashita. Kuno Yoko is responsible for the animated segments, while Nobuhiro Yamashita directs the live-action segments used in the rotoscoping process.
Often compared to Aki Kaurismäki, known for his films centering on characters who are usually left alone facing the consequences, Nobuhiro Yamashita is best known for his first 35mm film, Linda Linda Linda (2005), about a group teenagers who form a band to cover songs by the Japanese punk rock band the Blue Hearts. The film was a popular success that brought him squarely into the realm of commercial cinema.
Kuno Yoko is a talented animator and manga creator recognized both nationally and internationally. She began creating manga in high school, and her debut publication, The Horn and Love of Yuiko Amagi (2017), won second prize for debut works at the Japan Media Arts Festival, where she also became the first artist to win two First Work prizes in different categories.
Credit: John Salangsang for AIF
She was a rotoscoping animation director known for her work on Shunji Iwai’s The Case of Hana and Alice (2015) and for directing the opening film for the puppet show Gara Piko Pu in 2016. She also worked as a character designer for Shiriri in Alien Shiriri from the Crayon Shin-chan series, created animations for Crayon Shin-chan: Kung-fu Boys Ramen Scrimmage in 2017, and directed episodes of Houseki no Kuni / Age of Crystals, earning significant international recognition. Ghost Cat Anzu marks her feature film directorial debut.
Rotoscoping Ghost Cat Anzu
The film is stands out from most anime films as the production team used a technique called rotoscoping. Rotoscoping involves artists tracing over live-action footage, one frame at a time, to make the animations look more realistic.
This method helps animators capture lifelike movements and is often used to blend animated characters with live-action scenes. While time-consuming, rotoscoping is great for creating detailed, realistic animations.
As you watch the film, you can hear the actors’ voices as if they were recorded along with the live-action scenes, and that’s because they were! The characters’ voices were captured on-site, which enhances the authenticity of the film’s sound design. This blend of live-action and animation creates a unique viewing experience, with real locations being animated over to create a surreal effect.
INTERVIEW
We had the pleasure to briefly speak with director Kuno Yoko and producer Keiichi Kondo at this year’s Animation Is Film Festival,
The Ghost Cat Anzu manga is loved for its fun, slice-of-life style, revolving around Anzu, a mischievous bakeneko (ghost cat), and the residents of his town. The lighthearted interactions between characters are shown with simple and defined artwork, where humor and charm come from Anzu’s everyday situations. The manga focuses on episodic stories instead of one continuous plot. But the film takes the story in a different direction…
The film diverges from the manga by focusing on a complete, full adventure with Aznu and a new character, Karin, a precocious tween who unexpectedly moves to rural Japan to live with her grandfather.
Karin’s distrust of Anzu becomes a central theme in the movie, which contrasts with the lighter and more comedic tone of the manga. Karin actively resists Anzu’s attempts to help her, giving the film a more rebellious and adventurous feel. It’s essential to highlight that the film incorporates various short stories from the manga, adding Karin to the mix while significantly altering other pivotal characters like Anzu’s “mother” and Tetsuya.
According to directors Kuno Yoko and Nobuhiro Yamashita,
In the original work, Anzu is a ghost cat living with a monk in a temple. Unlike the typical expectations associated with ghost cats, which are supposed to surprise and scare people, Anzu behaves like an idle old man: he aimlessly sleeps, works part-time as a massage therapist, and is seen urinating in front of the temple. To present Anzu in a more appealing light, the film required a character to contrast with him. This is how we introduced the original character of Karin into the film, a girl as difficult to deal with as Anzu.
– Via Press Release
What Fans Can Expect from the Film
The film promises a blend of comedy, action, and emotional depth, with Karin and Anzu having to face the demonic consequences of Karin’s impulsive and rebellious actions. Fans can expect intense action scenes and dramatic tension that weren’t present in the manga while still holding onto the comedic elements that make Ghost Cat Anzu beloved.
Fans of the original manga will observe significant shifts in the tone, character dynamics, and stakes of the story. While the manga presents a relaxed, slice-of-life narrative, the film elevates the emotional stakes, infuses dramatic action, and establishes a more compelling plot arc. Despite these transformations, the film preserves the essence of Ghost Cat Anzu by maintaining its comedic core.
That being said, the film faces challenges with narrative coherence and structure; for a runtime of 97 minutes, the film would have been better as short film. However, for fans of the manga the film delivers a cinematic interpretation that skillfully balances humor, adventure, and emotional resonance. This new adaptation presents an innovative perspective on Ghost Cat Anzu, providing an enjoyable experience for both dedicated fans and those new to the series.
After months of anticipation, Spy x Family CODE: White debuts in theaters worldwide! Preceding its release, Crunchyroll hosted a red-carpet event to commemorate the English dub premiere of the series’ first film. On April 11, fans and celebrities gathered at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles to witness the beloved Forger family on the big screen, joined by voice talent: Alex Organ (Loid), Megan Shipman (Anya), Natalie Van Sistine (Yor), Tyler Walker (Bond), Anthony Bowling (Franky), Tyson Rinehart (Luca), Phil Parson (Domitri), and Lindsay Seidel (Nightfall), with additional attendance by actors Dara Reneé, Emery Kelly, Max Ehrich and Zeno Robinson; rapper 24kGoldn; musician Kim Dracula; model, singer, actor and producer Skye Aurelia; and content creators Billy Yue, Jacki Jing, Nicewigg, Neekolul, Izzy Kento, Magdaline Janet and Stella Chu.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 11: (L-R) Tyson Rinehart, Anthony Bowling, Tyler Walker, Phil Parsons, Megan Shipman, Alex Organ, Natalie Van Sistine, Cris George, and Lindsay Seidel attend World Premiere Of The English Dub Version Of “SPY x FAMILY CODE: White” at DGA Theater Complex on April 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Crunchyroll)
We had the thrilling opportunity to attend and view the film firsthand, and we are eager to share the excitement surrounding it!
Spy x Family CODE: White
When Loid faces a critical directive: his role in Operation Strix is slated for replacement and with it entire Forger family. Determined to maintain his position, he embarks on a mission to assist Anya in winning a cooking competition at her school to win a Stella Star and earn him one step closer to his objective; Donovan Desmond. Under the guise of a family vacation, the Forgers embark on a journey to seek the principal’s favorite dessert. However, their seemingly harmless quest sets off a series of events that threatens to disrupt the delicate balance of peace and ignite a full-blown conflict between the two nations.
The Forgers In Action On The Big Screen
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 11: A general view of atmosphere at World Premiere Of The English Dub Version Of “SPY x FAMILY CODE: White” at DGA Theater Complex on April 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Crunchyroll)
Spy x Family is a series I enjoy a lot with its unique concept, storytelling, and loveable characters. Watching the film on the big screen in theaters felt different. The animation is what I would expect from the likes of Wit Studio and Cloverworks; clean and detailed. Its production showcases the high-quality animation that WitStudios and Cloverworks are known for. Fans can look forward to the film knowing it got the seal of approval by having Tatsuya Endo serve as the production supervisor, ensuring the film stayed true to the Spy x Family series.
The action scenes for Loid and especially for Yor’s fighting scenes, were animated with high attention to detail, allowing the audience to enjoy the thrill of the fight. In contrast, there were a lots of heartwarming moments between the Forgers as they enjoyed their little family “vacation”.
While the series balanced action, comedy, and heartfelt moments, the movie felt like it leaned towards the comedic aspect of the Spy x Family series. There wasn’t a time within the movie when the audience was not bursting with laughter. The family’s secrecy about each other’s identity and intentions often led to hilarious misunderstandings between Loid and Yorn. We also can’t forget about the mischievous Anya, who basically launched the film’s storyline through her innocent but troublesome methods.
Family Stays Together
I’ve always been excited to see how the Forgers grow not just as individuals but also as a family with every season. It’s one of the things I enjoy watching in Spy x Family. The movie also focuses on that theme and emphasizes it a lot throughout. It was quite prominent compared to what I saw during the series. Each character played a certain role that led to them being one step closer to learning what a family is.
Loid, who never had a family and created the Forgers specifically for the mission, is still learning what family is and what it means to be one. We could see Loid express his confusion about the meaning of family and why he desires to protect the family even though it’s fake. Yor, who has her little brother, Yuri, became sort of like a guide for Loid, guiding him on what a family means based on her experience. Anya, who wanted a family of her own, kept the family together in her Anya-like way and was the reason that Loid was acting more like a father of the family and learning what it means to be one.
First Time Watching In English Dub
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 11: (L-R) Megan Shipman (Anya), Natalie Van Sistine (Yor) and Alex Organ (Loid) | (Photo by Krystal Kitsune/TKN)
This was my first time watching Spy x Family in English, and it was an interesting experience. I am more of a Japanese dub fan and watch most of my anime series in English sub, including Spy x Family. Listening to the English dub cast was different from watching the English sub, perhaps because I can understand the Japanese version and am already used to their voice actors.
Although there were a couple of times when I cringed at some of the lines they said in the English dub, the English voice cast did a fantastic job voicing their characters, very fitting. Being able to understand them even made the whole movie much funnier than I anticipated.
Conclusion
Packed with action, thrills, and comedy, Spy x Family CODE: White is what you would expect to see in a Spy x Family movie. I love seeing how the Forgers grow as a family as they navigate their way on what it means to be one. The movie might have even given us a glimpse or even an idea that we might see in the series in the future. We won’t know this for sure since the series only has two seasons so far. If you’re a manga reader, then you might have already gotten some foresight into how the Forgers act as a family. As for those of us who only watch anime, it will be a while before you get to see some family development in possible future seasons. Until then, the movie is great for anyone who wants to see more of the Forgers and scratch that itch until a new season is announced.
Spy x Family CODE: White is now in theaters, get your tickets now!Can’t get enough? Check out our YouTube Channel, and watch my interviews with the English dub cast of Spy x Family at the red-carpet premiere!
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Crunchyroll rolled out the red carpet for the much-anticipated English dubbed premiere of SPY x FAMILY CODE: White on April 11, 2024, at the prestigious DGA Theatre Complex in Los Angeles.
(L-R) Tyson Rinehart, Anthony Bowling, Tyler Walker, Phil Parsons, Megan Shipman, Alex Organ, Natalie Van Sistine, Cris George, and Lindsay Seidel attend World Premiere Of The English Dub Version Of “SPY x FAMILY CODE: White” at DGA Theater Complex on April 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Crunchyroll)
The English dub voice talents such as Alex Organ (Loid), Megan Shipman (Anya), Natalie Van Sistine (Yor), Tyler Walker (Bond), Anthony Bowling (Franky), Tyson Rinehart (Luca), Phil Parson (Domitri), and Lindsay Seidel (Nightfall), were in attendance.
(L-R) Tyler Walker, Alex Organ, Natalie Van Sistine, and Megan Shipman attend World Premiere Of The English Dub Version Of “SPY x FAMILY CODE: White” at DGA Theater Complex on April 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Crunchyroll)
SPY x FAMILY CODE: White marks the debut film installment of the beloved television series, presenting an original storyline that revolves around secret agent <Twilight>, his lethal assassin wife Yor, and their telepathic adopted daughter Anya as they embark on a fresh new mission. Inspired by the critically acclaimed manga by Tatsuya Endo, which has earned nominations for Harvey and Eisner Awards, the television series SPY x FAMILY premiered on April 9, 2022, captivating audiences worldwide. The series’ first two seasons are currently available to stream on Crunchyroll.
RED CARPET INTERVIEWS
SPY x FAMILY, the anime series, is brought to life by TOHO Animation and adapted from the highly acclaimed manga of the same name, penned and illustrated by Tatsuya Endo. Originally serialized in Shueisha’s Shonen Jump Plus, the manga currently has over 31 million copies in circulation and has garnered nominations for prestigious awards such as the Harvey and Eisner Awards. Notably, SPY x FAMILY has secured a place on the New York Times Graphic Books and Manga bestseller list, with all ten volumes consistently ranking in the Circana Bookscan Top 20 Adult Graphic Novels.
The animation production is a collaborative effort between two renowned anime studios: WIT STUDIO, known for their work on titles like Attack on Titan and VINLAND SAGA, and CloverWorks, recognized for projects such as The Elusive Samurai and Black Butler: Public School Arc.
Watch SPY x FAMILY CODE: White in theaters on April 19th, and start streaming Spy X Family on Crunchyroll.
Film Synopsis
He’s a spy. She’s an assassin. Together, Loid and Yor keep their double lives to themselves while pretending to be the perfect family. However, their adopted daughter, Anya, a telepath, knows both of their exciting secrets unbeknownst to them. Under the guise of taking his family on a weekend winter getaway, Loid’s attempt to make progress on his current mission, Operation Strix, proves difficult when Anya mistakenly gets involved and triggers events that threaten world peace!
Hazbin Hotel, the eagerly awaited series by Vivienne Medrano (VivziePop), has finally arrived, bringing joy to long-time fans. Collaborating with colleagues from the School of Visual Arts in NYC, Vivienne dedicated almost two years (2017-2019) to bringing the Hazbin Hotel Pilot Episode to life. Prior to the Hazbin Hotel Pilot Episode, Vivienne gained recognition through the animated music video “Die Young – Fan Animated Music Video,” featuring Ke$ha’s song. This newfound recognition helped Vivienne with her early career and later assisted in the success of Hazbin Hotel.
Screenshot of Die Young – Fan Animated Music Video
Released on October 13, 2019, the pilot episode received acclaim for its originality in story and artistic direction, quickly going viral. This success led to the spin-off series “Helluva Boss,” premiering on November 25, 2019.
In 2020, film production companies A24, SpindleHorse Toons, and Bento Box Entertainment took over the production of Hazbin Hotel. However, some changes occurred, including a new cast and redesigned main characters. The series was initially set for a summer 2023 release but faced a delay due to the 2023 strike. A new release date was announced in late September 2023, revealing an Amazon Prime Video premiere, and it was revealed that the now 4-year-old pilot episode would be canon to the series.
The highly anticipated series had its Los Angeles premiere in Culver City on Wednesday, January 17th. Cast members, including Vivienne Medrano, Stephanie Beatriz, Erika Henningsen, and Amir Talai, attended the event, marking a significant moment for the Hazbin Hotel fandom. A Q&A, moderated by Joseph Deckelmeier, was held after screening the first three episodes with the aforementioned cast members and series creator Vivienne Medrano.
Given the success of both “Helluva Boss” and “Hazbin Hotel,” what lies ahead for Vivienne? Could an animated theatrical film be in the works? While that remains uncertain, one thing is clear – we’re all in for one HELL of a ride!
The following are highlights from the Q&A
Joseph Deckelmeier: How does it feel coming into a show that already has such a fan base that’s so strong and hardcore? Is that a little intimidating to step into?
Admir (Alastor VA): It’s funny. I had absolutely no idea until I was well into recording it. [. . .] I auditioned, thinking it would be fun. When I saw the scripts, I thought, “Yes, this is great.” It wasn’t until later, with the new voice actors announcement, that I realized it might be a big deal. Like being the new Batman, it’s definitely intimidating but exciting.
Joseph Deckelmeier: What were your first thoughts when you saw your characters rendered?
Stephanie Beatriz (Vaggie VA): We haven’t discussed this, but I love the throwback-y sailor Moon-y coquette bow, the skirt, and the stockings- I mean, some of my earliest queer awakenings were watching Sailor Moon at, like, 05:00 a.m. I remember watching it being like, some of these girls are gay, so I just love that it’s there, that’s like a little touchstone of it. I just absolutely adore it.
Joseph Deckelmeier: One thing that really stuck out to me was the chemistry that everybody had. It is incredible the way it seems like they play off each other, but they didn’t record together, so what was it that you found in the post-production process to kind of cultivate and create that chemistry amongst the cast?
Vivienne Medrano (series creator): I know what it was, the voice director. Richard Horvitz, and I have been working together for a while. He understands my taste and knows what I want, almost reading my mind for an amazing direction. During the pandemic recordings, he would read with everybody, retaining the essence of each performance. This makes a significant difference, and I’ve witnessed many actors express how much it helps them emotionally connect with the scenes.
Joseph Deckelmeier: The heart of this show is really Charlie and Maggie’s relationship. Can you guys talk about how we see that relationship explored throughout the course of season one? ‘
Stephanie Beatriz (Vaggie VA): One beautiful aspect of this series is its exploration of redemption, questioning if it’s possible to redeem a soul from hell to heaven and whether change is achievable. Sometimes, when you fall in love, you don’t really understand that you’re deserving of that love. You don’t really believe that you are the kind of person that somebody else could be in love with. When considering their (Charlie & Vaggie) relationship, they reflect the uncertainty of feeling deserving of love. Falling in love can reveal one’s true self, and in their case, they don’t seek to change each other, embracing each other’s baggage. Vaggie’s goal is to support her partner’s dreams, raising questions about love, redemption, and self-worth.
Before releasing the Hazbin Hotel pilot episode, we had the opportunity to interview Vivenne during Anime Expo 2019, before we knew what the future held for The Hazbin Hotel!
More recently, we had the opportunity to interview Edward Bosco, the original voice of The Radio Demon, Alastor. Discover what has happened since the pilot episode, why Edward is not returning for the series, and more in our exclusive audio interview! (Giveaway opportunity towards the end!)
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Blue Eye Samurai, created by Micheal Green & Amber Nozumi, is a captivating story set in Edo-period Japan. The series revolves around Mizu, a skilled swordmaster of mixed race, as she navigates a life shrouded in disguise and driven by the pursuit of revenge. Voiced by Maya Erskine, Mizu’s character combines determination, grace, and a deep understanding of the art of the sword. As the plot unfolds, viewers are transported to a world filled with animated intrigue, complex relationships, and epic battles. Blue Eye Samurai offers a unique blend of historical fiction, action, and personal growth, making it a thrilling and immersive watch.
Micheal Green, known for his exceptional storytelling, has previously worked on acclaimed projects such as Logan, Blade Runner 2049, Murder on the Orient Express, and, most recently, A Haunting in Venice. With his unique ability to craft compelling narratives, Green, along with Nozumi, brings their expertise to Blue Eye Samurai, creating a world that will captivate viewers.
Photo Credit, John Salangsang for AIF
Jane Wu, the visionary director behind the series, is renowned for her work as a storyboard artist. Her impressive portfolio includes notable projects such as Mulan (2020), Star Trek Beyond (2016), and Guardians of the Galaxy (2014). In addition, Wu has also contributed her talents to beloved animated series such as The Men In Black, Jackie Chan Adventures, and Godzilla. With Blue Eye Samurai, Wu marks her return to animation, allowing her to showcase her exceptional skills and breathe life into this thrilling series. Together, this series is set to transport audiences to a world of adventure, mystery, intrigue, and a bloody good time.
Photo Credit, John Salangsang for AIF
The first episode of the series premiered at this year’s Animation Is Film Festival at the TLC Chinese Theater in Hollywood. Despite the grandeur of the red carpet, the absence of acting talent served as a constant reminder of the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. However, the series director, Jane Wu, and the series creators, Michael Green and Amber Nozmi, were present at the event. Their presence signified their commitment to the project, even amid industry challenges.
In recent years, we have witnessed the emergence of a new wave of iconic adult animation that ventures beyond the confines of the typical comedy genre. These adult animated series delve into dramatic stories and explore complex themes. While there have been many notable examples from the East, such as Satoshi Ton’s groundbreaking 1997 film Perfect Blue, let’s focus on Western adult animation.
When we think of adult animation in the Western context, the first shows that come to mind are often comedies such as Family Guy or even irreverent black comedies like Sausage Party. However, there is a growing movement within the industry to redefine and push the boundaries of what we understand as “Western adult animation”.
Enter Blue Eye Samurai, a captivating series that aims to challenge the conventions of adult animation in the West. Both the series director and creators are dedicated to redefining the genre, striving to provide a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience. By combining elements of action, drama, and nuanced storytelling, Blue Eye Samurai offers a fresh perspective on the potential of adult animation.
As adult animation continues to evolve, it is exciting to witness the birth of groundbreaking shows like Blue Eye Samurai, which challenge the traditional boundaries of the genre and push the art form to new heights. If you enjoy films such as Kill Bill and episodic storytelling such as Arcane, you’ll love Blue Eye Samurai!
Don’t miss our exclusive interview with director Jane Wu and series creators Michael Green & Amber Noizumi, discussing their work on Blue Eye Samurai. Join us on the red carpet as director Jane Wu shares her insights into the series, followed by creators Michael Green & Amber Noizumi revealing the inspiration behind BLUE EYE SAMURAI.
Add BLUE EYE SAMURAI to your queue & remember to watch on November 3rd!
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