The upcoming anime film Fushigi no Kuni de Alice to – Dive in Wonderland- (With Alice in Wonderland -Dive in Wonderland-) has released its full trailer, revealing more about the cast and a preview of the theme song “Zukan” (Guidebook) by SEKAI NO OWARI. Described as Japan’s first anime film adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, the film promises a unique take on the classic tale.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Tale
Dive in Wonderland centers on Rise, a modern-day university student struggling to find her path. She stumbles into Wonderland after discovering an invitation left by her late grandmother. In this bizarre world, she meets Alice, and together they embark on a series of curious adventures.
The Cast of Characters
The film features a talented cast, including:
- Nanoka Hara as Rise, the modern-day protagonist.
- Maika Pugh as Alice, the iconic Wonderland resident.
- Mayu Matsuoka as the Queen of Hearts.
- Kōji Yamamoto as the Mad Hatter.
- Norito Yashima as the March Hare.
- Ryūichi Kosugi as Humpty Dumpty.
- Kappei Yamaguchi as the White Rabbit.
- Toshiyuki Morikawa as the Cheshire Cat.
- Takahiro Yamamoto as the Caterpillar.
- Shōtarō Mamiya as Akira Urai, a butler who invites Rise to Wonderland.
- Keiko Toda as Ayako Azumino, Rise’s grandmother.
SEKAI NO OWARI’s Enchanting Theme Song
SEKAI NO OWARI, the band behind the theme song “Zukan,” aims to capture the spirit of the film. Saori, a member of the band, hopes the song will “make the days of worrying and struggling about why I can’t do things a little more endearing.”
Production Details
Dive in Wonderland is directed by Toshiya Shinohara (Black Butler, A Lull in the Sea, The Aquatope on White Sand) at P.A. Works. Yūko Kakihara (Blue Box, Urusei Yatsura 2022, The Aquatope on White Sand) is writing the script. Shochiku and TBS are listed as production coordinators. The film’s concept design is by Kiyoshi Arai, with Kentarō Akiyama as the art director. Tomo Namiki is the compositing director of photography, and Miho Tanaka is the color key artist. Haruki Suzuki is the 3D director, and Ayumi Takahashi is responsible for editing. Haru Yamada is the sound director, with sound effects by Naoto Yamatani and sound production by Sound Team Don Juan. The music is composed by kotringo.
Release Date
Dive in Wonderland is slated to open in Japan on August 29, 2025.
A Closer Look at the Characters and Story
Rise: A Modern Girl in a Timeless World
Rise Azumino is a university student grappling with the uncertainties of life. Feeling lost and unsure of her future, she discovers an invitation from her late grandmother, leading her to the fantastical world of Wonderland. Rise’s journey mirrors the struggles of many young adults today, making her a relatable protagonist for audiences.
Alice: The Eccentric Guide
Alice, a young girl living in Wonderland, becomes Rise’s guide through this bizarre and enchanting realm. Her unique perspective and fearless nature challenge Rise’s perceptions and help her discover new aspects of herself.
The Wonderland Crew: Familiar Faces with a Twist
The film reimagines classic Alice in Wonderland characters, including the Cheshire Cat, Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts, and White Rabbit. Each character plays a role in Rise’s journey, offering lessons and challenges that push her to grow and evolve.
Thematic Elements: Identity, Reality, and Choice
Dive in Wonderland explores themes of identity, reality, and the power of choice. As Rise navigates the absurdities of Wonderland, she confronts her own insecurities and learns to embrace her individuality. The film questions the nature of reality, blurring the lines between dreams and waking life. Ultimately, Rise must make a decision about her future, choosing the path that aligns with her true self.
P.A. Works: A Studio Known for Quality Animation
P.A. Works, the animation studio behind Dive in Wonderland, is renowned for its visually stunning and emotionally resonant works. With titles like A Lull in the Sea and The Aquatope on White Sand, the studio has a proven track record of creating captivating anime with memorable characters and immersive worlds. Their involvement in Dive in Wonderland raises expectations for the film’s animation quality and storytelling.
Why This Adaptation Stands Out
While Alice in Wonderland has been adapted numerous times, Dive in Wonderland offers a fresh perspective by blending the classic story with modern sensibilities. The inclusion of a contemporary protagonist like Rise allows the film to explore themes relevant to today’s audiences. The film also marks the first anime feature film adaptation of Alice in Wonderland in Japan, offering a unique cultural lens on the beloved story.
What to Expect
Dive in Wonderland promises a visually stunning and emotionally engaging journey through the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland. With its talented cast, renowned animation studio, and captivating theme song, the film has the potential to become a classic in its own right.
