The official website for Shōji Kawamori’s highly anticipated original animation film, Labyrinth (Meikyū no Shiori), announced 18 more cast members on Friday, December 12. These new additions, many of whom have previously collaborated with Kawamori, will join an already star-studded lineup for the film set to premiere in Japan on January 1, 2026.
The announcement significantly expands the ensemble for the psychological thriller, which promises to be a unique blend of pop and horror elements, exploring the modern relationship between individuals and their smartphones.
Expanding the Voice Cast for Labyrinth
The newly revealed cast members, whose specific character roles were not immediately disclosed, include a roster of prominent names in the anime and entertainment industry. These include Yūichi Nakamura, Yūma Uchida, Inori Minase, Kana Hanazawa, Yōko Hikasa, Aya Endō, May’n, Megumi Nakajima, Ami Koshimizu, Kiyono Yasuno, Minori Suzuki, Nao Tōyama, Nozomi Nishida, Kenjirō Tsuda, Yūki Kaji, Soyogi Soyogi (Yūki Kaji’s voice AI project), Takuma Terashima, and Hiroki Nanami. This extensive list highlights the film’s ambition and the caliber of talent Kawamori has assembled for his first original feature-length animated film not based on an existing franchise.
Previously Announced Key Cast Members
Prior to this latest announcement, several key cast members and their roles had already been revealed, giving fans a glimpse into the film’s core characters. These include:
- Suzuka (from Atarashii Gakkō!): Making her voice acting debut as the protagonist Shiori Maezawa and her alternate self, Shiori@Revolution.
- Taizō Harada: As Komori, a distinctive character resembling a rabbit stamp.
- Aoi Itō: Playing Kirara Kurashina, Shiori’s classmate.
- Jun Saitō: Portraying Kento Yamada, another of Shiori’s classmates.
- Takuto Teranishi (timelesz): As Suguru Kagami, an entrepreneur researching the direct interface between human brains and smartphones.
- Shō Hayami: As Keizō Maezawa.
- Maaya Sakamoto: As Yoriko Maezawa.
- Tomokazu Sugita: As Tōsaka.
The Intriguing Premise of Labyrinth
Labyrinth centers on Shiori Maezawa, an ordinary high school student whose life takes a bizarre turn after her smartphone malfunctions. She finds herself transported to a deserted, parallel version of Yokohama. The mystery deepens when she discovers photos of herself on her social media that she has no memory of posting. Driven by a desire to prevent her “other self” from spiraling out of control, Shiori embarks on a journey to escape this strange labyrinth within her smartphone.
Director Shōji Kawamori has commented that the film was inspired by the idea of smartphones serving as “other selves” that accumulate vast amounts of personal information. He aims to deliver an “emotional, narrative film that blends song and horror, resulting in a unique pop entertainment experience.”
Creative Team and Production Details
The film is being directed by Shōji Kawamori, renowned for his work on the Macross and Aquarion series, at SANZIGEN. The original story concept is a collaborative effort by Slow Curve, Vector Vision, GAGA, and Fuji Television, with Slow Curve also handling the planning and production. Risa Ebata (Macross Frontier, AKB0048) is responsible for character designs, and Taichi Hashimoto (Listeners, Gate Keepers 21) penned the script. The theme song, “Sailor, Sail On,” will be performed by Atarashii Gakkō!, with music composed by yonkey, who also composed the film’s overall score.
Labyrinth is set to open in Japan on January 1, 2026. A special premiere screening, accompanied by a Q&A session with Kawamori, is scheduled for December 21 at the Malaysia Comic Fiesta convention. The film will also see a release in Southeast Asia in 2026.
