The upcoming anime film, Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage, has released a new trailer, key visual, and additional cast members, heightening anticipation for its premiere. The film is slated to arrive in Japanese theaters on March 14, 2025. This second installment in the Mononoke trilogy promises to delve deeper into the surreal and unsettling world of the Medicine Seller.
A Sequel Emerges From Ashes
Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage was announced following the release of the first film, Mononoke the Movie: Karakasa (Paper Umbrella), on July 26, 2024. The trilogy serves as a sequel to the original Mononoke series from 2007, itself a spin-off of the Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales anime. This complex lineage has cultivated a dedicated fanbase eager for more tales of the supernatural.
The Ominous Trailer
The newly released trailer offers a glimpse into the film’s eerie atmosphere. It begins with the Medicine Seller’s ominous pronouncement: “The flames that form a Swarm – The Ashes of Rage.” The trailer then transitions to the Ooku, the women’s quarters within Edo Castle, depicting women struggling against constraints and seeking to embrace their beliefs. The trailer teases the appearance of a mysterious ayakashi, born from the depths of human emotion. The ending theme, “Hana Musou” by AiNA THE END, enhances the trailer’s surreal vibe.
A Striking Visual
Along with the trailer, a new key visual has been revealed. The artwork dynamically portrays the Medicine Seller confronting a mononoke, surrounded by flames and eyes that evoke the ashes of rage. A tagline accompanies the visual: “If you don’t kill it, it won’t stop.”
New Faces Join the Cast
The film will feature returning and new cast members. Hiroshi Kamiya will reprise his role as the Medicine Seller. New additions to the cast include:
- Yuuki Kaji
- Ayumu Murase
- Taku Yashiro
- Katsuyuki Konishi
- Yoko Soumi
The return of Hiroshi Kamiya is particularly noteworthy. Kamiya stepped into the role of the Medicine Seller, replacing Takahiro Sakurai, who departed due to allegations of an extramarital affair.
The Legacy of Mononoke
Mononoke has captivated audiences with its unique blend of horror, mystery, and Japanese folklore. The series distinguishes itself through its visual style, which draws inspiration from traditional Japanese art. Its stories explore the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of unchecked emotions.
The Medicine Seller: A Mysterious Protagonist
At the heart of Mononoke is the enigmatic Medicine Seller. He travels through feudal Japan, confronting and exorcising malevolent spirits known as mononoke. To defeat these spirits, the Medicine Seller must uncover their form (Katachi), truth (Makoto), and reason (Kotowari). He uses various tools and talismans, but his most potent weapon is his ability to understand the human emotions that give rise to the mononoke.
A Trilogy in the Making
The Mononoke film project is planned as a trilogy. The first film, Mononoke the Movie: Karakasa, premiered on July 26, 2024. The second film, Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage, is slated for release on March 14, 2025. Details about the third film are yet to be revealed.
Production Details
Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage is directed by Goro Taniguchi. The film is animated by EOTA, the same studio that produced the first film.
Where to Watch
The first film, Mononoke the Movie: Phantom in the Rain, is available on Netflix. Fans can anticipate that Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage will also eventually be available on streaming platforms following its theatrical release.
A Continuing Journey Into Darkness
Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant addition to the Mononoke universe. With its exploration of human emotions, supernatural phenomena, and striking visuals, the film is poised to captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike. The release of the new trailer and the announcement of additional cast members have only heightened the excitement surrounding this highly anticipated anime film.
Mononoke: A Deeper Dive into the Series
Mononoke is more than just a horror anime; it is a psychological exploration of the human condition. The series uses traditional Japanese folklore and ghost stories to examine themes such as:
Grief and Loss: Many mononoke are born from the lingering pain and sorrow of those who have experienced loss. The series explores how these emotions can manifest into vengeful spirits.
Social Injustice: The mononoke often expose social inequalities and the suffering of marginalized groups. The series critiques societal structures that contribute to human suffering.
The Power of Belief: The beliefs and desires of individuals and communities can shape the very reality around them. The series demonstrates how these beliefs can create and sustain mononoke.
The Significance of the Ooku Setting
The choice of the Ooku as a setting for Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage is significant. The Ooku was the women’s quarters of Edo Castle, a place of confinement and intrigue. The women who lived in the Ooku were often pawns in political games, their lives dictated by the desires of powerful men. This environment bred resentment, jealousy, and suppressed desires, making it a fertile ground for the birth of mononoke.
The Enduring Appeal of Mononoke
Mononoke‘s enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend horror, mystery, and social commentary. The series challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the world around them. Its distinctive visual style and complex characters create a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. As the Mononoke trilogy continues, fans can expect even more unsettling tales from the dark corners of feudal Japan.
