A new anime adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved novel, Anne of Green Gables, titled “Anne Shirley,” is generating excitement as it unveils its premiere date and a captivating teaser video. Fans can mark their calendars for April 5th, when the 24-episode series will begin airing on NHK Educational TV in Japan.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Tale
The upcoming anime promises to breathe new life into the timeless story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative orphan girl who finds an unexpected home with the Cuthbert siblings on Prince Edward Island. This adaptation arrives 46 years after the original 1979 anime adaptation by Nippon Animation, a series that left a lasting legacy. The new series aims to capture the hearts of both longtime fans and new audiences alike, covering the first three volumes of the Anne of Green Gables series.
Production Details and Creative Team
The Answer Studio, known for its work on acclaimed films like “Suzume” and “Your Name,” is producing the anime, ensuring high-quality animation that beautifully depicts Anne’s world and the stunning landscapes of Prince Edward Island.
Here’s a glimpse at the key staff members bringing this vision to life:
- Director: Hiroshi Kawamata
- Character Design: Kenichi Tsuchiya
- Chief Animation Directors: Yuji Watanabe & Naoko Saito
- Art Director: Tadashi Kudo
- Color Design: Shiho Kuriki
- Director of Photography: Shinji Saito
- Sound Director: Kisuke Koizumi
- Music: Michiru Oshima
The musical score is composed by Michiru Oshima, known for her work on “Fullmetal Alchemist” and “The Tatami Galaxy,” promising an enchanting auditory experience.
Voice Cast Announcement
The voice cast features talented actors who will embody the spirit of the iconic characters:
- Honoka Inoue as Anne Shirley
- Aya Nakamura as Marilla Cuthbert
- Yasunori Matsumoto as Matthew Cuthbert
- Naoya Miyase as Gilbert Blythe
- Yume Miyamoto as Diana Barry
Manga Adaptation
Adding to the anticipation, a manga adaptation by Akane Hoshikubo launched in Kadokawa’s B’s-LOG COMIC magazine on January 5th, offering fans another way to engage with the story.
Story Overview
Set in the late 19th century in the fictional town of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island, Canada, Anne of Green Gables tells the story of Anne Shirley, an 11-year-old orphan girl mistakenly sent to middle-aged siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert. The siblings had intended to adopt a boy to help them on their farm. The novel follows Anne’s adventures in school and within the town, showcasing her imaginative spirit and her journey to find her place in the world. The anime adaptation promises to depict Anne’s growth and the transformative impact she has on the lives of those around her.
A Beloved Story Across Generations
Anne of Green Gables has resonated with readers worldwide since its publication in 1908. The story has been translated into numerous languages and adapted into various forms of media, including films, television series, and stage productions.
The novel was translated into Japanese by Hanako Muraoka in 1952, where it became a beloved classic amongst Japanese readers.
The enduring popularity of Anne of Green Gables lies in its heartwarming portrayal of childhood, friendship, and the power of imagination. The story celebrates the beauty of nature, the importance of kindness, and the resilience of the human spirit.
“World Masterpiece Theater” Legacy
The original 1979 anime was a part of Nippon Animation’s acclaimed “World Masterpiece Theater” series (known by various names over the years, including “Calpis Children’s Theater” and “Calpis Family Theater”). This series adapted classic works of literature for young audiences, and “Anne of Green Gables” became one of its most beloved installments. The show was broadcast on Fuji TV from January 7 to December 30, with a total of 50 episodes produced. The first six episodes were later edited into a compilation film released in 2010.
Other notable works in the World Masterpiece Theater include:
- The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
- Heidi, Girl of the Alps
- The Swiss Family Robinson: Flone of the Mysterious Island
The “World Masterpiece Theater” has had significant success in Europe.
What to Expect from the New Anime
The new “Anne Shirley” anime is expected to offer a fresh and visually stunning take on the classic story. With a talented team of animators, writers, and voice actors, the series promises to capture the essence of Anne’s character and the charm of Avonlea. Fans can anticipate a faithful adaptation of the novel, while also enjoying new interpretations and artistic flourishes.
The key visual released showcases Anne, Gilbert Blythe, and Diana Barry in Avonlea Village, enjoying a picnic scene, portraying them slightly older than at the story’s beginning.
Where and When to Watch
The “Anne Shirley” anime will premiere on April 5th on NHK Educational TV at 6:25 p.m. JST (5:25 a.m. EDT). International viewers may be able to stream the series on various platforms, but details are yet to be announced.
A New Chapter for Anne
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation continues to build for the “Anne Shirley” anime. This adaptation offers a new generation the opportunity to fall in love with Anne’s story, while also providing longtime fans with a fresh perspective on a timeless classic. With its beautiful animation, talented voice cast, and faithful adaptation of the novel, “Anne Shirley” is poised to become a beloved addition to the world of anime.
