by A brand-new visual and preview trailer have been released for the original animated feature Super Kaguyahime!, further raising anticipation ahead of its global debut. Alongside the new footage, seven additional characters and their voice actors have been announced, including Miyu Irino, Yuma Uchida, and Yoshitsugu Matsuoka.
This highly anticipated project marks the first feature-length directorial debut of animation creator Seigo Yamashita, a name well known among anime fans for crafting unforgettable opening sequences.
What Is Super Kaguyahime!?
Super Kaguyahime! is an original musical animation inspired by the classic Japanese folktale “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter.” Rather than a traditional retelling, the film boldly reimagines the story in a near-future setting, blending:
- Virtual worlds
- Live streaming culture
- Music-driven storytelling
- Youth, dreams, and emotional bonds
The result is a modern fairy tale that resonates strongly with today’s digital-native generation.
Director Seigo Yamashita’s First Feature Film
Director Seigo Yamashita has left a lasting mark on the anime industry through his dynamic and emotionally charged visuals. He previously directed opening animations for major hit series such as:
- Jujutsu Kaisen (Season 1 OP)
- Chainsaw Man
- Urusei Yatsura
With Super Kaguyahime!, Yamashita brings his signature cinematic camera work, expressive character motion, and music-synchronized storytelling into a full-length film format for the first time.
Star-Studded Music Lineup by Vocaloid Producers
One of the film’s biggest highlights is its music, produced by a dream lineup of Vocaloid creators, including:
- ryo (supercell)
- kz (livetune)
- 40mP
- HoneyWorks
- Aqu3ra
- yuigot
The film’s songs are not mere background tracks—they actively drive the narrative, portraying emotions, conflicts, and dreams through music. Tracks like the theme “Ex-Otogibanashi” and the insert song “Instant Symphony” (written by 40mP) are already drawing attention for their emotional depth and catchy melodies.
Story Overview (Beginner-Friendly)
Set in the near future, the story follows Sakayori Ayaha, a 17-year-old high school student attending a prestigious school in Tokyo. Balancing her studies and part-time job, Ayaha finds comfort in watching streams from Tsukimi Yachiyo, a popular livestreamer in the virtual world “Tsukuyomi.”
In Tsukuyomi, users can freely create avatars, perform music, and earn money through games and creative activities. Ayaha herself supports Yachiyo while playing battle games to earn some extra income.
One day, Ayaha encounters a mysterious seven-colored glowing utility pole, from which an adorable baby emerges. The baby rapidly grows into a girl her age and asks a simple yet shocking question:
“Are you Princess Kaguya?”
A Modern Princess Kaguya Story
The girl, Kaguya, soon reveals a selfish yet innocent personality. At her request, Ayaha helps her begin activities as a livestreamer in Tsukuyomi. Ayaha produces the music, while Kaguya sings—slowly building a powerful bond through song.
However, an ominous fate looms in the background:
the destiny that may force Kaguya to return to the moon.
The story asks a timeless question in a modern way:
Can bonds formed through music and shared dreams overcome destiny?
New Visual Highlights
The newly released visual depicts Kaguya and Ayaha in the real world, surrounded by streaming equipment—microphones, monitors, and cables scattered across a cramped room. On the monitor, Kaguya appears inside Tsukuyomi, full of energy, while Ayaha looks exasperated yet caring.
This contrast beautifully captures their relationship:
- Kaguya: playful, free-spirited, radiant
- Ayaha: grounded, realistic, quietly supportive
Newly Announced Cast & Characters
Seven new characters have been revealed, adding depth to the story:
- Miyu Irino as Akira Mikado, charismatic leader of the pro-gamer group Black Onyx
- Yuma Uchida as Kaminari Komazawa, a quiet but impactful team member
- Yoshitsugu Matsuoka as Noyi Komazawa
- Yoshino Aoyama as Aya Tsumugi Ashika, Ayaha’s close friend
- Yoshimi Kohara as Mami Isayama
- Fairouz Ai as a Loyal Dog Otaku streamer in Tsukuyomi
- Natsuki Hanae as Otokoto Terukoto
Cast comments praised the film’s emotional performances, music-driven scenes, and unique atmosphere, further fueling fan expectations.
Massive Early Buzz
- Teaser visuals ranked #1 on YouTube’s “Most Popular Movies”
- Over 15 million views across social media (as of late November)
- Official trailer trended on X (formerly Twitter) in Japan
This level of engagement highlights Super Kaguyahime! as one of the most talked-about anime films of the year.
Release Information
Worldwide exclusive streaming on Netflix
Release date: January 22
Final Thoughts
Super Kaguyahime! stands out as a bold fusion of folklore, music, and virtual culture. With visionary direction, top-tier music creators, and a star-studded voice cast, the film promises a heartfelt story about connection, dreams, and choosing one’s own future.
If you enjoy music anime, emotional storytelling, or modern fantasy reimaginings, this is one January release you won’t want to miss.
