by The upcoming Netflix animated feature THE RIBBON HERO has unveiled its third official trailer, new cast members, and exciting updates ahead of its worldwide streaming debut. One of the biggest announcements is that popular Nijisanji VTubers Tsukino Mito, Runrun, and Debidebi Debiru will make their first-ever voice acting appearances in a feature-length anime film, marking an important milestone in their careers.
Inspired by Osamu Tezuka’s legendary manga Princess Knight, THE RIBBON HERO reimagines one of manga’s most influential stories for a new generation with breathtaking animation, an all-star creative team, and an emotional coming-of-age adventure.
A Modern Reimagining of Osamu Tezuka’s Classic
THE RIBBON HERO draws inspiration from Osamu Tezuka’s groundbreaking manga Princess Knight, one of the earliest works to feature a female action heroine in Japanese manga history.
Rather than serving as a direct adaptation, the film presents a fresh interpretation that introduces new characters, updated themes, and spectacular action while honoring the spirit of Tezuka’s timeless classic.
The project immediately attracted widespread attention after its teaser visual was released, ranking No. 1 on Yahoo! Japan Trends and No. 3 on X (formerly Twitter) in Japan, demonstrating the enormous anticipation surrounding the film.
Selected for the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2026
Adding to the excitement, THE RIBBON HERO has been officially selected for the Annecy Presents program at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2026, the world’s most prestigious animation festival.
Director Yuki Igarashi is also scheduled to participate in a special panel discussion during the festival, highlighting the film’s growing international recognition even before its global release.
Its Annecy selection reflects the confidence many industry professionals have in the movie’s artistic quality and storytelling.
Director Yuki Igarashi Makes His Feature Film Debut
The film is directed by Yuki Igarashi, one of Japan’s most respected young animators.
Anime fans may recognize his work from:
- The celebrated ending animation of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 1
- Star Wars: Visions – The Ninth Jedi production team contributions
- Star Wars: Visions – Lop & Ochō, praised worldwide for its emotional storytelling and dynamic action
THE RIBBON HERO marks Igarashi’s long-awaited debut as a feature film director, bringing together his signature fluid animation style and cinematic visual direction.
A Star-Studded Creative Team
The production boasts an impressive lineup of creators from some of anime’s biggest franchises.
Key Staff
- Director: Yuki Igarashi
- Original Work: Based on Princess Knight by Osamu Tezuka
- Original Character Design: Kei Mochizuki (Fate/Grand Order, Touken Ranbu ONLINE)
- Character Design Collaboration: Mai Yoneyama (Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, LAZARUS)
- Animation Character Design: Kazunari Aragaki
- Art Director: Cedric Errol
- Music: Akatsuki Kanzaki (MONACA), Ryuichi Takada (MONACA)
- Animation Studio: OUTLINE
- Production: Twin Engine
Together, this creative team aims to deliver a visually stunning fantasy adventure filled with emotional storytelling and stylish action sequences.
Third Trailer Highlights Sapphire’s Heroic Journey
The newly released third trailer offers a deeper look into the film’s emotional narrative.
After being forced to flee her homeland, protagonist Sapphire begins building strong friendships in a new land while confronting the terrifying calamity known as Nergal.
As repeated attacks leave the people without hope, Sapphire refuses to surrender.
“No… I won’t let it end like this!”
With unwavering determination, she transforms into the legendary Ribbon Hero, donning a flowing veil before entering battle.
The trailer also showcases:
- High-quality action animation
- Emotional character interactions
- Sapphire’s growing confidence
- The mysterious figure Velvet
- Beautiful fantasy environments
- Dramatic transformation sequences
The latest footage raises expectations for both the film’s emotional impact and its spectacular action scenes.
Nijisanji VTubers Make Their Feature Anime Debut
One of the biggest surprises is the casting of three popular Nijisanji talents.
For the first time, Tsukino Mito, Runrun, and Debidebi Debiru will voice characters in a theatrical-length anime production.
Their casting reflects the increasing collaboration between the anime industry and virtual creators, as VTubers continue expanding into voice acting and mainstream entertainment.
New Characters and Cast Revealed
Sapphire’s companions at the mining settlement have also been introduced.
Rock – Voiced by Yoshimasa Hosoya
The dependable leader of Sapphire’s team.
Although he has a stylish appearance, Rock possesses the personality of a traditional craftsman who always protects his friends, even in hopeless situations.
Hosoya described him as:
“A character who represents the classic hero image of the Showa and Heisei eras.”
Hecate – Voiced by Tsukino Mito
An honest, passionate, and emotionally strong woman who becomes one of Sapphire’s trusted allies.
Tsukino Mito commented:
“Being involved in a project based on the legendary Princess Knight filled me with both excitement and responsibility. I hope audiences enjoy Hecate as much as I enjoyed bringing her to life.”
Chorogi – Voiced by Yusuke Tezuka
A timid yet sincere young companion whose kindness and playful personality help strengthen the group’s bond.
Chick – Voiced by Runrun
A cheerful twin character who teams up with Tack throughout the adventure.
Runrun shared:
“It was my first professional voice acting experience, and although I was nervous, everyone made the recording sessions so much fun.”
Tack – Voiced by Debidebi Debiru
The other half of the energetic twin duo.
Debidebi Debiru said:
“At first I wondered how everything would go, but once recording started, I became completely absorbed in the story.”
An Inspiring Story About Hope and Courage
At its heart, THE RIBBON HERO explores themes of:
- Courage against impossible odds
- Friendship and teamwork
- Fighting against oppression
- Believing in hope
- Discovering one’s true strength
As Sapphire gathers allies from different backgrounds, she challenges the world’s harsh belief that “the weak inevitably become victims of the strong.”
The film asks whether courage and unity can truly overcome overwhelming power.
Main Cast
The film features an impressive voice cast.
- Saya (Lalande) as Sapphire
- Seiran Kobayashi as Pine
- Koki Uchiyama as Velvet
- Mayumi Shintani as Zirco
- Haruhiko Jyo as Pope
- Yoshimasa Hosoya as Rock
- Tsukino Mito as Hecate
- Yusuke Tezuka as Chorogi
- Runrun as Chick
- Debidebi Debiru as Tack
Production Staff
Director: Yuki Igarashi
Original Story: Based on Princess Knight by Osamu Tezuka
Script Cooperation: Junko Komura
Character Original Design: Kei Mochizuki
Character Design Collaboration: Mai Yoneyama
Animation Character Design: Kazunari Aragaki
Art Directors: Cedric Errol, Masanobu Nomura
Nergal Design: okama
Color Design: Natsumi Watanabe
CG Director: Akane Nagamine
Director of Photography: Hikaru Fukuda
Editing: Junichi Uematsu
Music: Akatsuki Kanzaki (MONACA), Ryuichi Takada (MONACA)
Sound Director: Keiichiro Miyoshi
Sound Production: Tohokushinsha
Production: Twin Engine
Animation Production: OUTLINE
Theme Song
The film’s official theme song is:
“Reborn” by Girls Archives
The uplifting track reflects Sapphire’s emotional journey of overcoming despair and embracing her destiny as the Ribbon Hero.
Why Anime Fans Should Watch THE RIBBON HERO
THE RIBBON HERO is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated anime films of the year. Combining the timeless legacy of Osamu Tezuka’s Princess Knight with cutting-edge animation, an award-worthy production team, and an emotionally powerful story, the movie offers something for both longtime anime fans and newcomers alike.
The feature is also significant for marking the first feature anime voice acting roles of Nijisanji stars Tsukino Mito, Runrun, and Debidebi Debiru, making it an exciting milestone for VTuber fans worldwide.
With its inspiring heroine, visually stunning action, heartfelt friendships, and universal themes of courage and hope, THE RIBBON HERO promises to be a memorable addition to the modern anime film landscape.
