The timeless tale of Anne of Green Gables has been reimagined once again, this time as a charming anime series titled Anne Shirley. Produced by The Answer Studio and directed by Hiroshi Kawamata, this new adaptation premiered in April 2025, captivating audiences with its fresh take on L.M. Montgomery’s beloved novel. Let’s delve into what makes this premiere so special and why fans of all ages are falling in love with Anne all over again.
A New Chapter for a Classic Story
Anne of Green Gables has seen numerous adaptations over the years, from live-action films and TV series to animated features. Each version brings its unique flair to the story, and the 2025 anime is no exception. This series promises to delve deep into Anne’s journey from a spirited orphan to a young woman, highlighting her encounters and relationships with the people around her.
Production Details
The anime series is being produced by The Answer Studio, known for its high-quality animation work on films like Your Name. and Suzume. Hiroshi Kawamata is directing, ensuring a faithful yet innovative adaptation. Other key staff members include:
- Character Design: Kenichi Tsuchiya
- Animation Directors: Yuji Watanabe and Naoko Saito
- Art Director: Tadashi Kudo
- Color Designer: Shiho Kuriki
- Director of Photography: Shinji Saito
- Sound Director: Kisuke Koizumi
- Music: Michiru Oshima
Voice Cast
The voice cast brings the characters to life with fresh energy:
- Anne Shirley: Honoka Inoue
- Marilla Cuthbert: Aya Nakamura
- Matthew Cuthbert: Yasunori Matsumoto
- Gilbert Blythe: Naoya Miyase
- Diana Barry: Yume Miyamoto
Premiere and Availability
The 24-episode series premiered on April 5, 2025, on NHK Educational TV in Japan. For international viewers, Crunchyroll is streaming the series, making it accessible to fans worldwide. The opening theme song, “Yokan” (予感, lit. ‘Premonition’), is performed by Tota, while the ending theme song, “Heart,” is performed by Laura Day Romance.
A Plot That Resonates Across Generations
The story centers around Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative orphan who is mistakenly sent to Green Gables. Siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert had intended to adopt a boy to help with farm work, but Anne’s arrival changes everything. While Matthew is immediately charmed by Anne, Marilla is more reserved but eventually grows to love the spirited young girl.
Anne’s Journey
The anime portrays Anne’s upbringing from ages 11 to 17, capturing her growth, challenges, and triumphs. Key themes explored include:
- Finding Belonging: Anne’s quest to find a place where she truly belongs.
- Friendship and Relationships: Her deep bond with Diana Barry and her evolving relationship with Gilbert Blythe.
- Personal Growth: Anne’s development into a confident and independent young woman.
- Overcoming Adversity: Dealing with prejudice and the challenges of being an orphan.
Manga Adaptation
In addition to the anime series, a manga adaptation illustrated by Akane Hoshikubo began serialization in Enterbrain’s B’s Log Comic online magazine in January 2025. This manga is based on the 1952 translation by Hanako Muraoka, offering another way for fans to experience the story.
Why This Anime Stands Out
Fresh Animation Style
The Answer Studio’s involvement ensures that the anime boasts high-quality animation. The character designs by Kenichi Tsuchiya capture the essence of the original characters while adding a modern anime aesthetic.
Faithful Adaptation
While the anime brings a fresh visual style, it remains faithful to the original story by L.M. Montgomery. Fans can expect to see their favorite moments and characters brought to life with care and attention to detail.
Universal Themes
The themes explored in Anne of Green Gables are timeless and universal. The story resonates with audiences of all ages because it deals with topics such as:
- Identity: Anne’s journey to discover who she is and what she wants in life.
- Acceptance: The importance of accepting others for who they are.
- Love: The different forms of love, including familial love, friendship, and romantic love.
- Imagination: The power of imagination and creativity.
Other Adaptations
Before this 2025 anime adaptation, Anne of Green Gables was previously adapted into a TV anime series twice in Japan by Nippon Animation as part of its World Masterpiece Theater series:
- The first was directed by Isao Takahata (Grave of the Fireflies) in 1979
- The second directed by Katsuyoshi Watabe (Brave Exkaiser) in 2009.
There’s also the 2017 Canadian period drama television series “Anne with an E” loosely adapted from Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 1908 classic work of children’s literature, Anne of Green Gables created by Moira Walley-Beckett for CBC and Netflix.
Conclusion
The Anne Shirley anime series offers a delightful and fresh take on a classic story. With its high-quality animation, faithful adaptation, and universal themes, it’s sure to captivate both longtime fans and new viewers alike. The premiere marks an exciting new chapter in Anne’s enduring legacy, proving that her story continues to resonate across generations and cultures.
