A new promotional video for Mamoru Hosoda’s highly anticipated anime film, Scarlet (titled Hateshinaki Sukāretto in Japan, meaning “Endless Scarlet”), has been released, revealing its poignant theme song “Hateshinaki” (“Endless”). The track is performed by Mana Ashida, who also lends her voice to the film’s protagonist, Princess Scarlet.
Lead Actress Mana Ashida Sings “Hateshinaki”
The reveal of “Hateshinaki” marks a significant moment for Scarlet, with director Mamoru Hosoda himself penning the lyrics for the ending theme. Hosoda envisioned the song as an integral part of the film’s narrative, aiming for it to serve as the final piece of Scarlet’s “endless journey.” Mana Ashida, known for her diverse acting career, embodies a compassionate facet of Princess Scarlet in her vocal performance, delivering the song with a clear and gentle voice that echoes the character’s journey towards peace rather than vengeance.
The theme song’s unveiling came through a special teaser aired after a broadcast of Hosoda’s earlier work, Wolf Children, on the Japanese television program Friday Road Show. Composer Taisei Iwasaki, who previously won the Japan Academy Prize for Best Music for Hosoda’s Belle, composed “Hateshinaki” and is overseeing the entire soundscape for Scarlet, including music, dialogue, and sound effects. Iwasaki noted that Ashida was given creative freedom during recording, resulting in a unique phrasing only she could express.
The Epic Tale of Princess Scarlet
Scarlet is an animated fantasy action film centered on a medieval-era princess named Scarlet. Consumed by grief and fury, she embarks on a dangerous quest for vengeance after her father, the king, is brutally murdered in a coup. However, her mission takes an unexpected turn when, after being fatally injured, she finds herself pulled into a surreal “Land of the Dead” or “Otherworld”—a realm that connects the living and the dead.
In this fantastical setting, Scarlet encounters Hijiri, an idealistic young man from modern-day Tokyo who becomes her unlikely ally and moral compass. Together, they traverse shifting landscapes between past and present, forcing Scarlet to confront whether vengeance will truly heal her pain or destroy her humanity. The film, described as a “dark revenge fantasy” and a reimagining of Hamlet, delves into profound themes of forgiveness, battling inner rage, and finding meaning in life beyond the cycle of hatred.
A New Visual Style and Production by Studio Chizu
Directed and written by Mamoru Hosoda, Scarlet is produced by his renowned Studio Chizu. Hosoda has expressed his intention for Scarlet to showcase a distinct visual style, moving away from traditional 2D animation and “Hollywood-style CG.” The production incorporated advanced digital techniques over four and a half years to achieve a highly detailed aesthetic, particularly in facial expressions, which is uncommon in anime. This approach aims to create a completely new look for the film, blending gorgeous 3D visuals that are intended to be far better than what is typically seen in anime.
The film’s producer, Yuichiro Saito, has confirmed plans for worldwide distribution. Sony Pictures is handling the international release, with Toho distributing the film in Japan.
Key Cast and Release Information
The main voice cast features Mana Ashida as Princess Scarlet, portraying the character across different stages of her life. Masaki Okada plays Hijiri, the modern-day Japanese man who accompanies Scarlet. Veteran actor Koji Yakusho is also part of the cast.
Scarlet had its premiere out of competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2025. The film is scheduled for theatrical release in Japan on November 21, 2025. For audiences in North America, Sony Pictures Classics plans an awards-qualifying run in late 2025, followed by a wider theatrical release on February 6, 2026. Earlier reports indicated a US release on December 12, 2025.
