GKIDS has officially announced the English dub cast for the highly anticipated anime film ALL YOU NEED IS KILL, based on Hiroshi Sakurazaka’s acclaimed science fiction light novel. The reveal comes as excitement builds for the film’s North American theatrical debut on January 16, 2026, following its Japanese premiere on January 9, 2026.
Key English Voice Actors Revealed
The English voice cast features a lineup of seasoned talent bringing the time-looping sci-fi narrative to life. Leading the cast are:
- Stephanie Sheh as Rita Jadon
- Jadon Muniz as Keiji
- Lisa Kay Jennings as Shasta
- Cherami Leigh as Rachel
- Jonny Cruz as Yonabaru
- Dave Fennoy as Bartolome
- Victoria Grace as Athica
- Michael Sinterniklaas as Ralph
- Joy Odofu as Rita’s Mother
The English dub production is reportedly handled by NYAV Post, a studio known for its extensive work on GKIDS’ releases.
“ALL YOU NEED IS KILL” Film Overview
The anime film adaptation is helmed by STUDIO4°C, celebrated for its distinctive animation style in works such as Tekkonkinkreet and Children of the Sea. Directed by Kenichiro Akimoto, the film reimagines Sakurazaka’s seminal work, which also inspired the live-action Hollywood movie Edge of Tomorrow starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt.
A New Perspective on a Familiar Story
While the original novel and the live-action film primarily focused on Keiji Kiriya, the anime adaptation shifts its perspective to emphasize Rita Vrataski’s inner journey. The narrative delves into her solitude, struggles, and personal growth as she repeatedly navigates a deadly time loop. This fresh approach promises to offer fans a deeper understanding of the “Full Metal Bitch,” as Rita is known.
Plot Synopsis
Set in the year 20XX, ALL YOU NEED IS KILL follows Rita, a dedicated young volunteer helping rebuild Japan after the appearance of a mysterious alien flower known as “Darol.” When Darol unleashes monstrous creatures, Rita is caught in the ensuing destruction and killed. However, she awakens to relive the same day repeatedly, trapped in an endless time loop. As she hones her combat skills through countless deaths, she encounters Keiji, a shy young man who shares her fate, also caught in the same temporal prison. Together, they must fight to break free from the loop and find meaning amidst the chaos.
Release Dates and Distribution
The film had its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival on June 9, 2025. Japanese audiences will first experience the film in theaters starting January 9, 2026. North American distribution rights have been acquired by GKIDS, with a theatrical release scheduled for January 16, 2026. GKIDS will also distribute the film in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. The film’s theme song, “Tsuretette,” is performed by AKASAKI.
