A new key visual and trailer have been released ahead of the premiere of the Dark Gathering anime series next summer. The main cast has also been announced, with Yu Sasahara playing Yayoi Hozuki, Nobunaga Shimazaki playing Keitaro Gentoga, and Kana Hanazawa playing Eiko Hozuki. The cast has also provided comments, which you can read below!

The Dark Gathering manga was launched in Shueisha’s Jump SQ in March 2019. Created by Kenichi Kondo, the series follow Keitaro Gentoga, a boy with the ability to see spirits. A shut-in for over two years, he slowly reintroduces himself to society as a private tutor, where he meets an incredibly smart girl named Yayoi Hozuki. She’s instantly able to see Keitaro’s mysterious skill and quicking invites him to go with her to a haunted place. From there, the two begin capturing evil spirits.

The anime is being directed at OLM by Hiroshi Ikehata, known for his work on FLCL Progressive. Shigeru Murakoshi is in charge of series composition while Shinya Segawa provided character designs.

The key visual shows the three main characters in front of a spooky Torii gate, each holding candles to add to the mysterious atmosphere.

The trailer also shows the three characters in action and is filled with traditional horror elements. Fans certainly have their hopes up for this one!

Keep an eye out for more details about Dark Gathering ahead of its broadcast in the summer of 2023!

Cast Comments

Yu Sasahara (Yayoi Hozuki)

“I’m Yu Sasahara, and I’m happy to announce that I’ll be playing the role of Yayoi Hozuki! I’ve always loved spooky occult stories, so when I asked to audition for Dark Gathering, I quickly read the original manga and was overwhelmed by its incredible world. It was so fascinating! I felt like I was meant to play Yayoi! I’ll do my best to make sure that everyone enjoys both the horror and the fighting elements, so let’s go!!”

Nobunaga Shimazaki (Keitaro Gentoga)

“Keitaro is a boy who’s attracted to the occult and who is constantly being pushed around by ghosts and his occult-loving childhood friends. Something I love about him is that no matter how many times he finds himself in a bad situation, he always manages to react in a different way and never gets accustomed to it. Even people who don’t typically like horror might like this series just for Keitaro’s reactions! (laugh)

The staff and cast have worked incredibly hard to bring this series to life. Ghost-centric horror anime is pretty rare these days, so I hope that you’ll love it as much as the original manga!”

Kana Hanazawa (Eiko Hozuki)

“To be honest, I’m not good with horror. Dark Gathering is seriously scary, but putting myself into Eiko’s shoes made things easier! She’s so excited by psychic phenomena that she’s strangely okay with the terrifying things happening around her. Sure, she’s a little weird, but that’s okay! Eiko, thank you! Both fans who have read the manga and those totally new to the story will have a great time–it’s scary, but it’s super compelling too.”

Ⓒ近藤憲一／集英社・ダークギャザリング製作委員会

In March 2022, the cover song project CrosSing was launched. Amassing instant popularity, tracks featured as part of the project have pulled in hundreds of millions of views. The project has featured popular voice actors Maaya Uchida, Kana Hanazawa, and Akari Kito. 

Ahead of the release of CrosSing Collection Vol. 1 on September 21, a clip of Kana Hanazawa’s cover of Rain has been uploaded to YouTube. The song will be included as a bonus track on the album. 

The track was used as the ending theme for Makoto Shinkai’s short anime film The Garden of Words, in which Hanazawa played the lead role. 

Rain – Kana Hanazawa (Sample Video)

Preorders for CrosSing Collection Vol. 1 are now open at the Canime shop.

Kakehiki wa Poker Face, the newest song from Kana Hanazawa, will serve as the opening theme for the romantic comedy anime series When Will Ayumu Make His Move? The song will be released on July 20, 2022, and a new photo of the artist has been released ahead of the single.

Hanazawa transferred to the Pony Canyon label in 2021, releasing the song Moonlight Magic in September. Her second single SHINOBI-NAI was released on November 3, and her first album via Pony Canyon, BLOSSOM, dropped on February 23, 2022.

The opening for the new anime series When Will Ayumu Make His Move?, Kakehiki wa Poker Face is an upbeat electro dance-pop number that might inspire those who are having trouble taking the next step forward. 

Hanazawa herself will provide the voice of Maki in the series, which is set to premiere in July.

FIREBUG studio and animation planning and production company Enishiya have teamed up for a new short anime, Massara. The animation itself was inspired by the song of the same name by Kiyoe Yoshioka, the lead singer of the popular pop duo Ikinonogakari. This was her first original solo song. 

The animation is a cross between a music video and a brief anime. The story follows a singer-songwriter, Nazuna (Voiced by Yoshioka), who is about to stop chasing her dream, along with a shy girl, Yuna. As they meet, they influence each other to keep running towards their respective dreams. Yuna is voiced by Kana Hanazawa, known for voicing Mitsuri Kanroji in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Both the music video and short anime are available to watch on the official Ikimonogakari YouTube channel, so check it out!

Comments from Performers and Staff

Kiyoe Yoshioka (Nazuna) 

“I tried as hard as I could, and when I realized how much I was putting into the role, it was over in an instant. The animation was so beautiful that I was drawn in and was able to enjoy working on it. I was very moved by the scene where Nazuna and Yuna, the two main characters’ thoughts and inner struggle for the songs are depicted, and their feelings really connected with each other. One of the highlights of the film is the faithful reproduction of the scenery of the station where I used to perform on the street when I made my debut. I think this is a kind of work that you can feel ‘real.’ I hope you will all enjoy it.” 

Kana Hanazawa (Yuna)

“The animation was so delicate and captivating that I wanted it to be released in theaters as it was, and I felt that it was a work that was created with great care. I’ve listened to a lot of Yoshioka-san’s singing voice, so I was very happy to be able to participate in such a wonderful project. She was very friendly and talked to me a lot during the recording process. I became more and more a fan of her personality, which is refreshing and gentle, and makes me feel comfortable being in the same space with her. I think the anime has a joy of being able to enjoy Yoshioka-san’s voice to the fullest, and also has the depth of flavor of the songs you listen to while feeling the story!” 

Keita Nagahara (Director)

“Before the actual post-recording session, we had a practice session as a test, where I explained the nuances of the dialogue and the character’s emotions, but Yoshioka already seemed completely capable of capturing Nazuka with very little prep. Her voice is charming, and although she doesn’t have a ton of voice acting experience, I was amazed by her natural talent. The song scene at the beginning was recorded right in front of me, and I was so moved by the power of her voice. This work is beautiful, and I was able to work with an amazing staff to create a short film that really emphasizes the atmosphere in which these characters live. Just as Yuna, who was unable to sing in front of others, was able to take a step forward with Nazuna, I hope that this film inspires someone else to take another step.”

Popular voice actress Hanazawa Kana has released a short music video for her upcoming single Moonlight Magic, releasing on September 29.

 「Moonlight Magic」Music Video short ver. 

The music video conveys a story almost entirely in CG, with a world-view reflecting the music. The chorus features an adorable dance with movements you’ll find yourself wanting to copy. 

It has also been announced that the full music video for Moonlight Magic will be premiering on YouTube on September 15 at 20:00.

We have high expectations for the full MV!

Japanese voice actress veteran Kana Hanazawa (Oreimo, Steins;Gate, Tokyo Ghoul, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba) has moved labels to Pony Canyon and announced the release of her first single with them. Titled Moonlight Magic, it will be released on CD on September 29, 2021.

Moonlight Magic is Kana’s first single to be released since Daijobu in July 2018. It will feature lyrics written by her and be made in collaboration with Japanese sound producer Katsutoshi Kitagawa who has worked with Kana since her early years in the industry. The single will be coupled with the song Minato no Mieru Oka which also has lyrics written by Kana, as well as two Chinese versions of both tracks.

The title track will be used as the opening theme for the Japanese drama series Omimi ni Aimashitara which will begin airing on TV Tokyo on July 8.

Kana Hanazawa | Comment

I have made the decision to move from ANIPLEX and SACRA MUSIC, where I have been for around nine years, to Pony Canyon. This is a positive reason for me to continue actively delivering music. I’m really happy to be able to take on new challenges without worry together with the staff that I’m usually working with on anime.

While it has been frustrating to not be able to see all the people who have been supporting me, as well as my live shows being stopped, due to COVID-19, I have been working hard with the music producer Katsutoshi Kitagawa to create songs. We’re working on a lot of great songs which I can’t wait for everyone to hear.

My first single, “Moonlight Magic,” was composed by Katsutoshi Kitagawa and the lyrics were written by me. We poured all of our energy in, which has grown over the past nine years, into this sparkling song reminiscent of “Hoshizora Destination.” In the lyrics, I wrote about my hopes that people will cherish the time when they feel happy because the world is so constrained right now.

I’m looking forward to this song reaching everyone, and I’m looking forward to seeing you all again in that happy place at my next live show. Thank you for your continued support!!

©「お耳に合いましたら。」製作委員会 

The highly-anticipated animated film Human Lost finally hit Japanese cinemas on November 29. Several of the staff and cast appeared at the film’s premiere event held in Tokyo, including Mamoru Miyano (Yozo Oba), Fuminori Kizaki (director), and Tow Ubukata (screenwriter). They discussed how they reconstructed Japanese novelist Osamu Dazai’s 1948 novel Ningen Shikkaku which the film is based on.

Miyano, who was clad in an all-black suit, began the talk, saying: “I’m very glad that we can celebrate the first day of release here in Japan.” Kizaki and Ubukata followed with their greetings.

Human Lost is a retelling of Osamu Dazai’s dark hero action and sci-fi novel. When it comes to adaptations, people already expect there to be major changes carried out from the original. But the film’s director Kizaki had something to say about that. “We made sure not to stray away from the original work laid down by Dazai.”

Ubukata followed this up: “Those of you who have read the original may think completely differently, but we kept in mind not to ruin the relationships between [the character] Yozo Oba and the people around him when making the film.” Miyano said: “I was taken aback when I heard about the plans for the film, like, whose idea was it to make this a hero story?” Ubukata laughed and followed with: “I really thought it was crazy when I first heard about it.”

Kizaki also said: “It’s such an immense piece of literature, so it was easy to construct Oba’s personality.”

Talking about what he likes about the film, Miyano said: “The action is amazing, and I think that comes from it being the heart of the film” He continues: “I’m the only voice actor here today, but the entire cast is incredibly talented. Everyone plays their roles with everything they’ve got. Jun Fukuyama really goes all out <laughs>.”

He also commented on the animation industry, saying that he felt this film “has widened the possibilities of animation.” He continues: “I too poured my spirit into my role so that viewers will feel many things.”

 Human Lost animated film is based on Japanese novelist Osamu Dazai’s 1948 novel Ningen Shikkaku (No Longer Human). It was directed by Fuminori Kizaki (Afro Samurai) at Polygon Pictures with Yūsuke Kozaki (Speed Grapher, Bubuki Buranki) acting as supervisor and Tow Ubukata (Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Psycho-Pass 2) as screenwriter.

Human Lost‘s story is set in 2036. A breakthrough in medical science has led to the creation of nanomachines, and the S.H.E.L.L. system that controls them, which ensures humans are free from disease and injury and extends their lifespan to 120. But this ultimate social system has warped the Japanese nation in a number of ways, whether it be economical disparities, serious environmental pollution, or the “Human Lost” phenomenon that malforms people disconnected from the S.H.E.L.L. network.

©2019 HUMAN LOST Project

Human Lost is right around the corner, with a release date in Japan of November 29, 2019. The animated film is based on Japanese novelist Osamu Dazai’s 1948 novel Ningen Shikkaku (No Longer Human). It is being directed by Fuminori Kizaki (Afro Samurai) directing the film with Yūsuke Kozaki (Speed Grapher, Bubuki Buranki) acting as supervisor and Tow Ubukata (Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Psycho-Pass 2) storyboarding.

At Japanese theatres, three postcards will be handed out over the course of three weeks respectively. Each one has a QR code on it which when scanned gives you access to audio dramas for three of the characters. This offers more insight into the story which won’t be covered in the film. Also, on December 5, you can delve deeper into the film with a special experience at Shinjuku LOFT Plus One, so don’t miss out. Full details on everything below.

©2019 HUMAN LOST Project

A new trailer has dropped for the upcoming animated film Human Lost which is set for release on November 29.

The trailer shines more lights on the film’s story and setting, including showing what Japan would be like if it were still in the Showa Period, specifically the 111th year.

Fuminori Kizaki is directing the film, and so additionally, to promote the film, the director’s cut of the Afro Samurai film and Bayonetta Bloody Fate filmーboth of which he directed and storyboardedーas well as the TV anime series Speed Grapher, which featured character designs by Yūsuke Kozaki who is also working on Human Lost, will be made available to watch for free for a limited time on Yahoo’s streaming service GYAO!.

Human Lost‘s story is set in 2036. A breakthrough in medical science has led to the creation of nanomachines, and the S.H.E.L.L. system that controls them, which ensures humans are free from disease and injury and extends their lifespan to 120. But this ultimate social system has warped the Japanese nation in a number of ways, whether it be economical disparities, serious environmental pollution, or the “Human Lost” phenomenon that malforms people disconnected from the S.H.E.L.L. network.

The film is being directed by Fuminori Kizaki and Katsuyuki Motohiro at Polygon Pictures with screenwriting from Tow Ubukata.

©2019 HUMAN LOST Project

The upcoming animated film Human Lost, to be released on November 29, is set to tie-up with various locations across Tokyo, including Shinjuku Golden Gai, the Rinkai Line, Shibuya Niku Yokocho, and the manga cafe Manboo, as well as establishments like the Japan Library Association.

Shinjuku Golden Gai is the first area to be hit by the tie-up and it will run until December 8. Multiple bars and eateries around this famous area of Shinjuku will sell “Human Lost Highballs,” and if you say the film’s Japanese title “Ningen Shikkaku!” at the entrance to certain places you’ll receive a free Shinjuku Golden Gai x Human Lost coaster.

The Rinkai Lineーone of Tokyo’s railway lines which connects the city centre to Aomi and Odaibaーis holding a Twitter campaign. If you take a train along the like to Tokyo Teleport, you’ll find a life-sized sticker of the characters at the station. Take a picture with it and post it on Twitter with the Japanese hashtag #ヒューマンロスト目撃情報 (“Human Lost Eyewitness Info”) for a chance to win an exclusive signed press sheet which won’t be available for general sale, another press sheet, tickets to see the movie in Japan, and a movie poster. This campaign is running until December 15.

Niku Yokocho, or “Meat Alley,” is an indoor bazaar in Shibuya of delicious meat eateries. It’s now holding an Instagram campaign which began today and will run until December 8. Take a picture of yourself inside Niku Yokocho and post on Instagram after tagging @shibuya.nikuyokocho and including the Japanese hashtags #渋谷肉横丁 (“Shibuya Niku Yokocho”) and #ヒューマンロスト肉祭り (“Human Lost Meat Festival”) for a chance to win an exclusive signed press sheet which won’t be available for general sale, another press sheet, a movie poster, and more.

The Japan Library Association has created a poster in collaboration with the film which is being handed out at public libraries across Japan until December 15. And at Jiyu Kukan, an internet cafe chain in Japan, you need to fill out a form on their website for a chance to win that signed press sheet, movie tickets and more. Finally, if you head to the manga cafe Manboo and access the campaign banner from one of the PCs at the cafe, you can choose a present to sign up to win.

Human Lost‘s story is set in 2036. A breakthrough in medical science has led to the creation of nanomachines, and the S.H.E.L.L. system that controls them, which ensures humans are free from disease and injury and extends their lifespan to 120. But this ultimate social system has warped the Japanese nation in a number of ways, whether it be economical disparities, serious environmental pollution, or the “Human Lost” phenomenon that malforms people disconnected from the S.H.E.L.L. network.

©2019 HUMAN LOST Project

The animated film Human Lost was screened at the 32nd Tokyo International Film Festival on November 2. Kana Hanazawa, who voices Yoshiko Hiiragi, as well as the film’s director Fuminori Kizaki and writer Tow Ubukata made an appearance at the red carpet opening the day before where they shed some light on the making of the film as well as unveiled a new key visual.

Human Lost is an adaptation of Japanese novelist Osamu Dazai’s 1948 novel Ningen Shikkaku (No Longer Human). The 3DCG film was animated at Polygon Pictures. Its story is set in 2036. A breakthrough in medical science has led to the creation of nanomachines, and the S.H.E.L.L. system that controls them, which ensures humans are free from disease and injury and extends their lifespan to 120. But this ultimate social system has warped the Japanese nation in a number of ways, whether it be economical disparities, serious environmental pollution, or the “Human Lost” phenomenon that malforms people disconnected from the S.H.E.L.L. network.

This was the staff’s first public appearance in Japan, the first having taken place in North America where the film premiered on October 22, 2019. Kana Hanazawa, who studied Japanese Language and Literature at university, explained how she was already a fan of the original work: “I was so happy to be involved at this point in time. I couldn’t imagine how [the film] would turn out. I was so excited to see how it would be done.”

Fuminori Kizaki also commented: “I thought it was interesting and was captivated by the idea of combining classical literature with sci-fi.” He continued, “I thought to myself I mustn’t be a difficult person to get along with, but when I heard [Tow] Ubukata was on board, I thought something might happen,” ending with a chuckle.

Ubukata responded with a smirk, saying, “He was such hard work I can’t bring myself to remember.” He went on to highlight two points with regards to conceiving the story: “First of all, we went down the sci-fi route because of the title, Human Lost. This is a world where all of humanity are no longer human. Secondly, by having a world without death, we have a story that in turn highlights the notion of death.”

Human Lost is a complete reconstruction of Daizai’s Ningen Shikkaku (No Longer Human), and there is so much so be taken from that title alone. The three of them were asked what stands out most to them in the film. Hanazawa said, “The fear of old people.” Kizaki said, “In terms of perspectives, the parts that about Japan that are ‘bizarre’ to foreigners.” Ubukata said, “The bike scene which is an homage to AKIRA.”

At the end of the talk, the above-pictured new key visual was showcased on the screen.

©2019 HUMAN LOST Project

Last week, an animated music video was released for the main theme song of the upcoming original anime film Human Lost. The song was written by m-flo and features vocals from Colombian Grammy Award-winning artist J Balvin.

It has since amassed over 200k views on YouTube, and has garnered worldwide attention, with fans praising the triple, no-borders collaboration between m-flo, J Balvin and the animated film.

The music video ranked at No. 2 on the iTunes Store, while the song made it into various Spotify playlists around the world, including New Music Friday in Asia, New Music Friday Latin in Latin America, and Tokyo Super Hits in Japan. The video has also made it onto TV in Columbia, which is the home country of J Balvin and m-flo’s own LISA. Rolling Stone described Balvin as having “made a name for himself by transcending borders, both of the national and musical variety.”

The music video was animated by internationally-acclaimed and award-winning animators Polygon Pictures, Inc and OLM Digital. The character design work for J. Balvin’s animated character was created by Yūsuke Kozaki.

Scenes of m-flo and J.Balvin are woven together with highlight scenes from the anime film Human Lost. The original animated feature film will be released in Japan on November 29, 2019. The film will be screened in the US ahead of the Japanese release on October 22 and 23 with the subtitled version rolling out on October 22 and the dubbed version on October 23.  which will hit US theatres on October 22, 2019.

J Balvin is one of the world’s top artists with over 50 million monthly listeners on Spotify and more than 30 million Instagram followers. He has also performed with other global superstars including Beyoncé, Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez. The song was released simultaneously worldwide on October 11.

©2019 HUMAN LOST Project