Gotham’s Dark Knight is back, but this time, he’s not just fighting crime in his familiar city. Warner Bros. Japan is releasing Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League, a sequel to the visually stunning and creatively daring Batman Ninja (2018). This new anime film throws Batman into a chaotic conflict against the Yakuza, with a twisted version of the Justice League leading the charge.
Release Dates and Availability
Fans in the U.S. won’t have to wait long to see this anime spectacle. The film is set to premiere digitally on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu on March 18, 2025. For those who prefer physical media, the 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Disc versions will be available on April 15, 2025. In Japan, the digital release is scheduled for March 21, 2025. A two-film digital collection featuring both Batman Ninja and Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League will also be available.
Storyline: When Japan Invades Gotham
Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League picks up shortly after Batman and his allies return to present-day Gotham City, following their time-traveling adventure in feudal Japan. However, their homecoming is far from peaceful. A startling event unfolds as the island of Japan vanishes, replaced by a giant island called “Hinomoto” that appears in the sky over Gotham.
The chaos escalates as countless Yakuza members descend upon the city, leading to a clash between Gotham’s protectors and the invading Japanese criminals. The Yakuza League is not just any ordinary group of villains; it is led by an alternate, corrupted version of the Justice League, presenting a formidable challenge for Batman and his team.
The Creative Minds Behind the Anime
The film boasts a talented team of creators. Junpei Mizusaki, known for his work on the opening animation sequences for JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure and CEO/founder of Kamikaze Douga, returns to direct alongside Shinji Takagi (unit director for Blood: The Last Vampire). Kamikaze Douga is again handling the animation. The script is penned by Kazuki Nakashima, with character designs by Takashi Okazaki, and music composed by Yūgo Kanno.
Voice Cast: A Reunion of Talented Actors
The voice cast is a star-studded lineup of Japanese talent, featuring returning actors from Batman Ninja, ensuring continuity in character portrayals:
- Kōichi Yamadera as Bruce Wayne/Batman
- Yūki Kaji as Robin
- Kengo Kawanishi as Red Robin
- Daisuke Ono as Nightwing
- Akira Ishida as Red Hood
- Hōchū Ohtsuka as Alfred Pennyworth
- Masaki Terasoma as James Gordon
- Wataru Takagi as The Joker
- Rie Kugimiya as Harley Quinn
- Ayane Sakura as Green Lantern
- Akio Ōtsuka as Aquaman
- Nobuyuki Hiyama as The Flash
- Romi Park as Wonder Woman
- Kazuhiro Yamaji as Ra’s al Ghul
Justice League Gone Rogue: Villains in Disguise
One of the most intriguing aspects of Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League is the concept of an alternate Justice League leading the Yakuza. This twisted version of Earth’s greatest heroes presents a unique and dangerous threat to Batman and his allies.
- Green Lantern (Jessica Cruz): Voiced by Ayane Sakura
- Aquaman (Arthur Curry): Voiced by Akio Ōtsuka
- The Flash (Barry Allen): Voiced by Nobuyuki Hiyama
- Wonder Woman (Princess Diana): Voiced by Romi Park
Special Features and Language Options
The film will be available in Japanese with subtitles in various languages, including English, and with an English dub. Bonus features for the home video release include behind-the-scenes content such as “Bringing Justice to Japan” and “Anime Action: Choreographing the Fights”.
Potential Plot Points and Theories
While the full details of the plot remain under wraps, the available information and trailers hint at several potential storylines and character arcs.
- Ra’s al Ghul’s Involvement: Given Ra’s al Ghul’s prominent role in the film, it is speculated that he might be responsible for creating the “Yakuza League.” As an immortal antagonist with vast resources and influence, Ra’s al Ghul possesses the means to manipulate events on a global scale.
- The Mystery of Hinomoto: The sudden appearance of the island “Hinomoto” over Gotham City raises questions about its origins and purpose. Is it a separate dimension, a technologically advanced fortress, or something else entirely?
- Batman’s Strategy: Facing a corrupted Justice League, Batman will need to rely on his intellect, combat skills, and the strength of his allies to overcome this unprecedented threat. How will he defeat those who were once his allies?
- Yakuza origins: How did the Yakuza rise to power and prominence in this alternate reality?
A Unique Fusion of Cultures and Genres
Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League promises to be a visually stunning and narratively complex film that blends elements of superhero action, Japanese culture, and crime drama. By pitting Batman against a Yakuza League led by a twisted Justice League, the film explores themes of justice, corruption, and the clash between different worlds.
