Crunchyroll’s latest anime lineup continues to spotlight a wide range of storytelling, from magical fantasy and post-apocalyptic science adventure to supernatural action rooted in mystery and family conflict. As part of our coverage, our in house Vtuber talent Krystal Vee, had the opportunity to speak with the English voice cast behind three standout anime titles: Witch Hat Atelier, Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE, and Daemons of the Shadow Realm.
Witch Hat Atelier
Based on Kamome Shirahama’s beloved manga, Witch Hat Atelier follows Coco, a young girl who dreams of becoming a witch in a world where magic is believed to be something only a select few are born with. Her life changes after a fateful encounter with the mysterious witch Qifrey, leading her into a world of magical study, wonder, and hidden dangers.
In our interview, Joshua A. Waters (Qifrey), and Madeleine Morris (Agott) discussed bringing the magical world of Witch Hat Atelier to life, the emotional layers behind their characters, and how the series balances wonder, mentorship, and personal growth.
Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE
Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE continues the story of Senku Ishigami and the Kingdom of Science as they push humanity closer to a future rebuilt through knowledge, experimentation, and determination. With the series entering a major stage of its story, the anime continues to blend science, adventure, comedy, and emotional character moments.
The English dub features returning cast members Aaron Dismuke as Senku, Felecia Angelle as Kohaku, and Brandon McInnis as Gen. Crunchyroll confirmed the English dub cast for Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE Cour 3, including Dismuke, Angelle, and McInnis in their respective roles.
During our conversation, the cast reflected on their characters’ journeys, the energy of returning to such a beloved series, and what makes Dr. STONE stand out as an anime that celebrates intelligence, teamwork, and the drive to move forward.
Daemons of the Shadow Realm
From Fullmetal Alchemist creator Hiromu Arakawa, Daemons of the Shadow Realm introduces audiences to a world of supernatural forces, hidden truths, and powerful bonds. The story follows twins Yuru and Asa, whose lives are shaped by mystery, conflict, and the strange beings known as daemons.
The English dub stars Ben Stegmair as Yuru and Molly Zhang as Asa. Crunchyroll announced the English dub cast with Stegmair and Zhang leading the series as the twin protagonists.
In our interview, Stegmair and Zhang spoke about portraying siblings caught in extraordinary circumstances, the tone of Arakawa’s storytelling, and how the series mixes action, humor, and emotional tension.
From the magical artistry of Witch Hat Atelier, to the scientific adventure of Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE, and the supernatural mystery of Daemons of the Shadow Realm, each title brings something distinct to Crunchyroll’s anime lineup. Through our conversations with the English voice cast, it is clear that these performances are built with care, enthusiasm, and a deep appreciation for the stories they help bring to life.
Watch our full interviews above, and stay tuned to The Kitsune Network for more anime coverage, cast interviews, and convention features.
GKIDS is bringing Another World, a visually arresting animated dark fantasy from Hong Kong, to audiences following the film’s landmark theatrical and festival success.
Directed by Tommy Ng Kai Chung in his feature directorial debut, Another World has already made history as the No. 1 highest-grossing Hong Kong film of 2025 and the highest-grossing Hong Kong animated film of all time. The film also earned Best Animated Feature at the 62nd Golden Horse Awards and was selected for several major international festivals, including the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2025, the Taipei Golden Horse Film Festival and the 21st Zurich Film Festival.
Based on Naka Saijo’s novel SENNENKI, published by Tokuma Shoten Publishing Co., Ltd., Another World blends supernatural fantasy with deeply human themes of grief, rage, forgiveness and reconciliation.
A Dark Fairy Tale Between Life, Death and Reincarnation
Another World follows Gudo, a Soul Keeper responsible for guiding human souls into their next life. When Gudo befriends a young girl named Yuri, he discovers that her untimely death has left her soul cursed by unresolved rage and regret.
As Yuri’s soul teeters on the edge of annihilation, Gudo sets out on a dangerous journey to prevent her pain from unleashing destruction across both the human world and the spirit realm.
Described as a dark fairy tale, the film explores how hatred and despair can shape a soul — and how compassion, even in its smallest form, can become a path toward healing.
A Story Rooted in Forgiveness and Emotional Healing
In his director’s note, Tommy Ng Kai Chung describes Another World as a reflection of the harshness of the real world and the hidden struggles people often carry. He explains that the film centers on belief: the belief that compassion can bridge generations and heal even the deepest scars.
Screenwriter and producer Polly Yeung Po Man also connects the film’s emotional core to anger, regret and redemption. Her note frames the story around a central question: how long does it take for someone to let go of anger and hatred, not only toward others, but toward themselves?
That question gives Another World its emotional weight, positioning the film not only as a fantasy adventure, but as a meditation on pain, self-forgiveness and the possibility of change across lifetimes.
Interview with Tommy Ng Kai Chung
In collaboration with VTuber, Krystal Vee, we had the opportunity to sit down with director Tommy Ng Kai Chung for a special virtual interview about the making of the film.
Cast and Creative Team
The Cantonese-language film stars Chung Suet Ying as Gudo, Choi Hiu Tung as Yuri, Louis Cheung as Dark Sky, Kay Tse as Goddess, Will Or as Keung and Yeung Nga Man as Goran.
The film is directed by Tommy Ng Kai Chung, written by Polly Yeung Po Man and produced by Yeung alongside Chan Gin Kai. Another World runs 112 minutes and is presented in its original Cantonese language. The film is currently not rated.
Ng is the founder of Point Five Creations, a Hong Kong-based animation studio specializing in full-service cel animation production. His previous work includes award-winning animated shorts such as Everywhere, Another World and Tale of Rebellious Stone, along with commercial and music video projects for brands and titles including Assassin’s Creed, Nike Air Max and Snakehips X Jess Glynne’s “Lie For You.”
Hong Kong Animation Steps Onto a Larger Global Stage
With its record-breaking box office performance and growing international festival presence, Another World represents a major moment for Hong Kong animation. The film’s combination of hand-crafted visual style, spiritual fantasy and emotionally driven storytelling places it alongside the kind of global animated cinema GKIDS has long championed.
GKIDS has built its reputation around bringing artist-driven animation to North American audiences, including works from acclaimed filmmakers such as Makoto Shinkai, Satoshi Kon, Tomm Moore and Mamoru Hosoda. The company also serves as the North American home of Studio Ghibli.
For audiences drawn to fantasy stories with emotional depth, Another World offers a journey through rage, sorrow and redemption — one that asks whether compassion can survive even across death, reincarnation and a thousand years of unresolved pain.
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Renowned anime creator Shoji Kawamori is ready to release his latest original feature film, Labyrinth in North America, marking a highly anticipated return to long-form storytelling from one of the industry’s most influential visionaries.
Best known for his work on the Macross franchise and his contributions to mechanical design and worldbuilding across decades of anime, Kawamori’s new project is already drawing attention for its ambitious concept and creative pedigree.
A New Original Vision
Labyrinth is described as an original anime film that explores complex themes through a visually immersive narrative. The film’s plot is described as follows; Shiori is a typical high school student who dreams of online stardom, but struggles to capture attention. After an embarrassing video of her goes viral, she gets trapped in her smartphone and replaced by a charismatic alter ego. As the doppelganger charms the internet and devises a nefarious plot to replace mankind with brainrot, Shiori must partner with other online outcasts to stop her digital counterpart and reclaim her life in the real world.
Additionally, Labyrinth stars globally popular Japanese girl group ATARASHII GAKKO!’s Suzuka as “Shiori Maezawa” in her voice acting debut, joined by Taizo Harada as “Komori” and Takuto Teranishi, from the boy group timelesz, in his debut acting role as “Suguru Kagami”. Fans of ATARASHII GAKKO! can also look forward to their performance of the film’s theme song “Sailor, Sail On,” with additional music by yonkey.
Kawamori has long been recognized for crafting narratives that balance spectacle with introspection, and Labyrinth appears poised to continue that legacy. The project is expected to feature intricate worldbuilding and symbolic storytelling elements, hallmarks of his past works.
INTERVIEW WITH SHOJI KAWAMORI
To learn more about the creative vision behind Labyrinth, our VTuber talent Krystal Vee, spoke directly with Shoji Kawamori about the film’s origins, themes, and what audiences can expect from this ambitious new project,
Kawamori’s Legacy in Anime
Over the course of his career, Kawamori has played a pivotal role in shaping modern anime, not only as a director but also as a designer and conceptual creator. In addition to Macross, his credits include work on titles such as Aquarion and AKB0048, where he explored themes of identity, music, and society.
His influence extends beyond storytelling—Kawamori is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of transforming mecha design, helping define the look and functionality of variable fighter systems that remain iconic today.
Watch Labyrinth Now
Tickets are now on sale for Labyrinth, and will be released in theatres for two nights only in Japanese with English subtitles and English-dubbed from May 10–11.
GKIDS, the acclaimed animation distributor and producer, also revealed a new English dub trailer for the film. The English dub voice cast stars Shay Rudolph as “Shiori”, Jesse Inocalla as “Komori”, Nicholas Leung as “Suguru”, Patrick Mealey as “Yamada”, and Brianna Gentilella as “Kirara”.
English Trailer
Japanese Trailer
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The world of KPop Demon Hunters is stepping off the screen and into real life as McDonald’s and Netflix unveil a new collaboration that transforms the film’s iconic rivalry into an interactive dining experience.
Beginning March 31, fans across the United States will be able to choose their side with two limited-time meals inspired by the film’s central groups — HUNTR/X and the Saja Boys — alongside exclusive collectibles and digital rewards.
The campaign blends anime-style storytelling, K-pop energy, and Korean-inspired flavors, creating an experience that goes beyond a traditional fast-food promotion and taps directly into the film’s growing global fandom.
Pick Your Side: HUNTR/X vs. The Saja Boys
At the center of the collaboration are two themed meals designed to reflect each group’s identity.
The Saja Boys Breakfast Meal channels the group’s fiery, charismatic energy with a spicy Sausage McMuffin with Egg, crispy hash browns, and a drink — a bold start for fans aligning with the rival boy group.
Meanwhile, the HUNTR/X Meal takes the spotlight for the rest of the day, featuring 10-piece Chicken McNuggets, a medium drink, and unique additions like Ramyeon McShaker fries and two signature sauces — Hunter Sauce and Demon Sauce — inspired by the group’s dynamic personalities.
The menu also incorporates Korean flavor influences, reinforcing the cultural roots that define KPop Demon Hunters.
Collectibles and Exclusive Fan Access
Each meal comes with a collectible photocard pack tied to either HUNTR/X or the Saja Boys, alongside a special “Derpy” access card. By scanning the QR code through the McDonald’s app, fans can unlock exclusive content and participate in a campaign-wide “Battle for the Fans” event, culminating in a final reveal of the winning group.
This interactive element turns the collaboration into more than a promotion — it becomes a fan-driven experience that mirrors the competitive spirit of the film itself.
A Sweet Newcomer Hits the Menu
Rounding out the collaboration is the debut of the Derpy McFlurry, a new dessert featuring vanilla soft serve blended with berry popping pearls and wild berry sauce. Inspired by the film’s mascot-like character, the treat adds a playful finishing touch to the lineup.
Derpy McFlurry
Expanding Anime’s Cultural Footprint
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, KPop Demon Hunters follows a K-pop girl group balancing global stardom with secret lives as demon hunters, all while facing a rival boy band hiding a darker truth.
With this collaboration, McDonald’s and Netflix continue to push anime and animation-inspired properties further into mainstream culture — not just through streaming, but through real-world, interactive fan experiences.
For anime fans, K-pop listeners, and collectors alike, the question now becomes simple:
Which side are you on?
The KPop Demon Hunters meals and promotional rewards will be available for a limited time through April 26 at participating McDonald’s locations nationwide.
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A new chapter in anime-themed entertainment is set to arrive in Southern California as Universal Studios Hollywood announces the debut of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Miracle – Moon Palace Chapter Deluxe, an original Japanese CG anime short film, as part of its upcoming Universal Fan Fest Nights event.
The experience will run on select nights from April 23 through May 16, offering fans a limited-time opportunity to step into the world of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon through a cinematic and interactive showcase.
A New Sailor Moon Story Comes to Life
Originally introduced as part of Universal Studios Japan’s “Cool Japan” initiative, the CG anime short will make its U.S. debut inside the DreamWorks Theatre. The presentation will feature Japanese audio with English subtitles and center on Super Sailor Moon as she faces a new enemy seeking the Legendary Silver Crystal.
Guests will be immersed in a story-driven experience that blends animation with audience engagement, encouraging viewers to support Sailor Moon as she battles to restore peace to the Moon Palace.
Universal Fan Fest Nights Expands Anime and Pop Culture Offerings
Universal Fan Fest Nights is a separately ticketed, after-hours event designed to celebrate fandom across anime, gaming, film, and television. The event features immersive environments, live entertainment, cosplay opportunities, themed food and merchandise, and character interactions.
Alongside the Sailor Moon attraction, the 2026 lineup includes a wide range of experiences:
ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show — A live-action stage production inspired by the globally popular anime, featuring action-packed performances and fan-favorite characters.
The addition of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Miracle – Moon Palace Chapter Deluxe underscores the continued global expansion of anime as a central pillar in themed entertainment. By bringing a Japan-originated experience to U.S. audiences, Universal Studios Hollywood is further bridging international fandoms through immersive storytelling.
As anime continues to grow in popularity worldwide, events like Universal Fan Fest Nights highlight how franchises such as Sailor Moon are evolving beyond the screen—offering fans new ways to engage with beloved characters and stories in real-world environments.
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In recent years, manga readers have increasingly embraced works that challenge conventional storytelling. One such title is HORIZON, a series that blends philosophical themes, grounded realism, and an unusual narrative tone that shifts between genres.
Created by Shiten Akiyama, HORIZON explores the relationship between fiction and reality while following a protagonist navigating personal history and unresolved emotions. With its distinct pacing, cinematic composition, and thought-provoking ideas, the series has sparked curiosity among readers searching for something outside traditional manga structures.
Front cover of HORIZON (Japanese) | (c) 秋山視点/少年画報社
Although the manga itself remains relatively niche in Japan, HORIZON recently circulated widely on social media following controversy surrounding creator Shiten Akiyama posting an English-translated version of the first chapter online in an effort to reach overseas readers—a move that reportedly drew concern from the series’ Japanese publisher.
In this interview with The Kitsune Network, Akiyama-sensei discusses the origins of HORIZON, the themes that shaped its creation, and how his perspective on storytelling continues to evolve.
Interview With Shiten Akiyama – HORIZON
Shiten Akiyama‘s Twitter profile picture
The Origins of HORIZON
Krystal: To begin, could you tell us what inspired you to create HORIZON?
Shiten Akiyama: Originally, I planned to draw only short works. However, if I wanted to pursue manga professionally, serialization was essentially the only path forward. I created several proposals and storyboards, but most of them did not work out.
During discussions with my editor, I encountered a barrier—the idea that “a project must be fully understood before it can be approved.” At that point, I decided to stop overthinking and simply create a storyboard for a first chapter. That draft became the early concept for HORIZON. From there, I began developing the series’ concept and setting.
Meaning Behind the Title
Krystal: The title HORIZON suggests ideas like distance and perspective. What meaning does the title hold for you?
Shiten Akiyama: In the earliest concept, the series was actually titled Because the Earth Is Ending. However, the core theme of the work eventually became “fiction and reality.” I chose the word HORIZON because it represents the boundary between those two worlds.
Interestingly, I discovered the word while working on music production in a DAW. I noticed a plugin called “Horizon” by Waves that I frequently used.
I also designed the logo myself. The base font is “Plaza,” which was used in the logo for director Satoshi Kon’s animated film Perfect Blue. I also like the symmetrical arrangement of the “O” letters centered around the “I.”
The Reader Experience
Krystal: When you began drawing the series, what kind of experience or emotions did you want readers to feel?
Shiten Akiyama: My goal was to create the feeling that the genre changes with each volume. Chapters 1 through 6 were intentionally written with the tone of a light romantic comedy. The reason for that is to betray the reader’s expectations in Chapter 7.
Another core theme is the relationship between fiction and reality—something I constantly think about. Ultimately, this leads to a paradoxical message to the reader: “Don’t read manga.”
Even the discomfort someone might feel from reading a manga can be part of what makes manga interesting.
Character Inspiration
Krystal: Were the characters in HORIZON inspired by real people or society, or do they reflect parts of yourself?
Shiten Akiyama: Each character has a real-life model among people close to me. I sometimes ask them about subtle nuances in dialogue, their thought processes, or their values.
However, because I am the one drawing them, my own personality inevitably enters every character. Sometimes that even feels a little unsettling.
Creating the Series’ Atmosphere
Krystal: HORIZON has a distinctive atmosphere from the very beginning. How did you approach building that tone visually and narratively?
Shiten Akiyama: For me, realism is always the most important factor, so I never intentionally tried to create something unusual.
However, readers often comment on the dialogue. Since much of the story is conversation-driven without action scenes, I try to make those exchanges engaging enough to carry the scene.
Even within those dialogue-heavy moments, I spend a lot of time thinking about camera angles and panel layout. My approach is heavily influenced by the directing style of Akio Jissoji, known for his work on Ultraman.
Silence, Pacing, and Visual Rhythm
Krystal: The series also uses silence and panel spacing in striking ways. What role do these elements play in the storytelling?
Shiten Akiyama: I personally dislike overly “manga-like” techniques, so I always imagine a live-action camera when composing scenes.
I try to avoid elaborate paneling and instead focus on the rhythm of time as experienced by the reader. This includes background-only panels and carefully adjusting the amount of dialogue within a panel.
These decisions help the story feel less like an exaggerated fictional world and more like the lives of people who might exist nearby in reality.
Artistic Influences
Krystal: Were there particular artists or works that influenced the tone of HORIZON?
Shiten Akiyama: The foundation of my manga comes from the works of Inio Asano. However, although I’ve been influenced by many manga, I rarely incorporate those influences directly.
Most of my inspiration comes from films and novels.
For HORIZON, I often thought about Night on the Galactic Railroad by Kenji Miyazawa and 2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke.
Toward the later chapters of the story, The Consumer Society by Jean Baudrillard also served as an important conceptual influence.
Introducing HORIZON to New Readers
Krystal: How would you describe HORIZON to readers discovering it for the first time?
Shiten Akiyama: I often see readers struggling to describe the series, and honestly, I feel the same way. It is not an easy work to introduce.
In truth, I create manga primarily for myself. As I get older, I find myself disliking more things—even becoming bored with manga that I once loved.
So I created the kind of manga that would still excite someone like me.
If it reaches readers who feel the same way I did in the past, that would make me very happy.
Message to International Readers
Krystal: What would you like to say to international readers discovering your work through HORIZON?
Shiten Akiyama: Overseas readers often know a great deal about Japanese culture, and communicating with them is always enjoyable.
First of all, I want to sincerely thank readers for their interest in Japanese culture.
The freedom and diversity of manga culture are supported not only by creators but also by the diversity of readers. Because I am not a mainstream author, reaching international readers and communicating with them can positively influence my creative work.
Thank you very much for reading HORIZON. I will continue doing my best so that one day readers can confidently call it a masterpiece.
(c) 秋山視点/少年画報社
HORIZON is currently published in Japan by Shōnen Gahōsha, and an official English-language release has not yet been announced. Readers interested in experiencing the series and supporting creator Shiten Akiyama can find the manga available through retailers such as Amazon(JP account required) and Kinokuniya Books (US).
To celebrate our interview with Shiten Akiyama, The Kitsune Network is giving readers a chance to win a copy of HORIZON. This giveaway is independently organized by The Kitsune Network and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Shiten Akiyama, the manga HORIZON, or its publisher Shōnen Gahōsha. Go to the NEXT PAGE and enter for your chance to win and experience the thought-provoking series for yourself.
Vtuber, Krystal Vee speaks with voice actors from three major anime series about their characters, performances, and the stories ahead.
As anime continues to expand its global audience, the voices behind its characters remain central to bringing these stories to life. From introspective fantasy journeys to high-stakes supernatural battles, voice actors help shape the emotional depth that resonates with fans worldwide.
In a series of VA (voice actor) interviews, The Kitsune Network’s VTuber host, Krystal Vee, spoke with voice actors from three highly anticipated anime titles: Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2, JUJUTSU KAISEN Season 3, and Sentenced to Be a Hero.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2
Voice Talent: Mallorie Rodak, Jill Harris, and Jordan Dash Cruz
Few modern fantasy anime have resonated with audiences as strongly as Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Known for its reflective storytelling and emotional themes, the series explores life after the traditional “hero’s journey.”
Together, the cast reflected on how the bond between Frieren, Fern, and Stark continues to shape the heart of the series as the story moves forward.
Watch the Interview
JUJUTSU KAISEN Season 3
Voice Talent: Adam McArthur and Kayleigh McKee
With its intense action and complex characters, JUJUTSU KAISEN has become one of the defining anime franchises of the modern era. As the series heads into its third season, the stakes for its characters continue to rise. Krystal, spoke with two returning voice actors from the English dub Adam McArthur as Yuji Itadori, and Kayleigh McKee as Yuta Okkotsu.
McArthur reflected on Yuji’s emotional resilience and how the character’s desire to protect others remains central to his journey. McKee discussed portraying Yuta’s quiet strength and the internal struggles that make him one of the series’ most compelling characters.
Both actors also shared insight into the demanding recording process behind the show’s high-energy battles and the excitement of continuing the story for a passionate international fanbase.
Watch the Interview
Sentenced to Be a Hero
Voice Talent: Dawn M. Bennett
Among the upcoming fantasy titles generating buzz among anime fans is Sentenced to Be a Hero, a series that blends action with darker themes of redemption and fate.
In a conversation hosted by Krystal Vee, Dawn M. Bennett, who voices Patausche Kivia, discussed the complexity of portraying a character navigating responsibility and redemption within the series’ darker narrative tone. She also shared insight into the voice recording process and how actors collaborate with directors to capture the emotional atmosphere of each scene.
Watch the Interview
Bringing Fans Closer to the Voices Behind Anime
At the heart of every unforgettable anime moment is a performance that brings the story to life. Through these conversations, Krystal Vee and The Kitsune Network offer fans an inside look at the voices shaping some of today’s most anticipated anime series.
From the reflective, emotional journey of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End to the high-stakes supernatural battles of JUJUTSU KAISEN and the darker fantasy world of Sentenced to Be a Hero, each interview explores the passion, creativity, and dedication voice actors bring to their roles.
For anime fans, these discussions provide more than just behind-the-scenes insight—they offer a deeper appreciation for the performances that give these characters their heart, intensity, and humanity. As these stories continue to unfold, audiences can look forward to powerful new moments, evolving characters, and the voices that make modern anime truly unforgettable.
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The global music × anime project Running Girl premiered its second music video Thursday, expanding its cross-media universe through a fashion-driven collaboration with BEAMS MANGART, the newly rebranded cultural initiative from Japanese apparel company BEAMS.
Titled “Michiko – RUN / tofubeats – Supported by BEAMS MANGART,” the video debuted on YouTube at 12 p.m. JST and introduces a new protagonist whose story unfolds in Tokyo’s Harajuku district .
Phase 2 shifts focus from the first installment’s character, Ran, to Michiko, whose aesthetic reflects Harajuku’s contemporary street culture. The video follows her run toward BEAMS WOMEN HARAJUKU, capturing the district’s vibrant atmosphere while reinforcing the project’s central motif of motion as both physical expression and emotional momentum .
BEAMS MANGART Rebrand Signals Expanded Cultural Vision
Originally launched in 2022 as MANGART BEAMS, the initiative has been revamped under the name BEAMS MANGART, accompanied by a new logo and refined creative direction.
Building on its established collaborations, BEAMS MANGART aims to fuse fashion with Japanese pop culture, including manga, anime and games. The project seeks to compile the artistry embedded within these works and amplify the passion of their creators through branding initiatives, product development and cross-industry collaborations.
A newly launched BEAMS MANGART brand website will provide updates on current activities, archive past projects and preview upcoming initiatives, positioning the label as a long-term cultural platform bridging fashion and entertainment.
Music × Anime With Global Ambitions
The Phase 2 music video features “RUN” by tofubeats, pairing electronic rhythms with fluid animation that mirrors Harajuku’s urban pulse .
Originally launched on YouTube, Running Girl is a short-form anime project built around the theme of “girls running around the world.” By combining high-quality visuals with music tailored to each scene, the series presents a stylized format designed to function as both narrative storytelling and immersive, everyday background viewing.
As BEAMS MANGART formalizes its cultural rebrand and Running Girl continues to evolve its global footprint, the collaboration highlights the growing intersection of fashion, music and anime-driven storytelling.
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Bandai Namco Filmworks has unveiled a new promotional video and key visual for Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe, marking the film’s recent theatrical release in Japan .
The newly released promotional video features the film’s ending theme, “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses, and is now available on the official Gundam YouTube channel, GUNDAM CHANNEL INTL. The footage highlights protagonist Hathaway Noa’s inner turmoil as he struggles to reconcile lingering feelings for Gigi Andalucia, whose growing influence and mysterious abilities increasingly shape the course of the conflict .
According to the announcement, the song was selected to underscore the emotional weight of Hathaway’s journey while amplifying the epic scale of the story. The promotional video also includes new footage spotlighting the mobile suit TX-ff104 ALYZEUS, offering a closer look at one of the film’s notable mechanical additions .
Alongside the video, Bandai Namco Filmworks released a second key visual depicting a climactic standoff set at Ayers Rock in Australia. The image captures a tense moment just before Hathaway’s XI Gundam clashes with Lane Aim’s TX-ff104 ALYZEUS, emphasizing the immediacy and intensity of the film’s central battle .
TX-ff104 ALYZEUS is described as a mobile suit developed as a temporary high-speed flight trainer for Lane Aim during the development of the Penelope. Built on a modified RX-94 mass-production Nu Gundam frame, the unit incorporates repurposed components from earlier prototype testing and utilizes a Shelf Nozzle propulsion system capable of achieving high-speed flight comparable to the Penelope despite relying on older engine technology .
Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe is set in the Universal Century timeline 12 years after Char’s Rebellion and continues the story of Hathaway Noa, the secret leader of the anti-government organization MAFTY. As Hathaway prepares an attack on the Adelaide Conference, his actions intersect with those of Federation officer Kenneth Sleg and the enigmatic Gigi, whose role grows increasingly significant as events unfold .
The film is directed by Shukou Murase, with a screenplay by Yasuyuki Muto and music composed by Hiroyuki Sawano. Animation production is handled by Bandai Namco Filmworks, with theatrical distribution by Bandai Namco Filmworks and Shochiku Co., Ltd. The film opened in Japanese theaters on Jan. 30, with U.S. release details yet to be announced.
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Guns N’ Roses’ iconic rock anthem “Sweet Child O’ Mine” has been selected as the ending theme for Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe, the latest entry in the Gundam Hathaway film series, Bandai Namco Filmworks announced Thursday .
A special promotional trailer featuring the song is scheduled for release Monday, Feb. 2. According to the announcement, the song’s themes of tenderness and longing were chosen to reflect the emotional state of protagonist Hathaway Noa, particularly following his encounter with the mysterious young woman Gigi Andalucia .
Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe opened in Japanese theaters Friday, Jan. 30, with a global theatrical release planned for a later date. The film follows the 2021 release of Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway, which drew widespread attention for its grounded combat sequences, subdued dialogue and psychologically driven storytelling within the long-running Gundam franchise .
Originally released in 1987, “Sweet Child O’ Mine” became Guns N’ Roses’ signature hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1988. The song is widely recognized for Slash’s opening guitar riff and has endured as a cross-generational anthem. Its official music video surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube in 2019 — the first song from the 1980s to do so — and has since exceeded 1.8 billion views worldwide .
Set in the Universal Century timeline 12 years after Char’s Rebellion, the Gundam Hathaway storyline centers on Hathaway Noa, the son of Federation officer Bright Noa, who secretly leads the anti-government organization MAFTY. As Hathaway prepares an attack on the Adelaide Conference, Federation officer Kenneth Sleg mobilizes countermeasures, while Gigi’s cryptic presence complicates the motives and actions of all involved .
The film is directed by Shukou Murase, with a screenplay by Yasuyuki Muto and music composed by Hiroyuki Sawano. Animation production is handled by Bandai Namco Filmworks, with theatrical distribution by Bandai Namco Filmworks and Shochiku Co., Ltd. A U.S. release date has not yet been announced .
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