A new anime adaptation based on the unsettling works of horror manga maestro Junji Ito, titled Junji Ito Crimson, has been officially announced. The reveal came during a panel at Japan Expo 2025 in Paris, France. Adding to the anticipation, it was also confirmed that acclaimed singer Yumi Matsutōya will perform the anime’s theme song, titled “Karasu Ageha”.
This latest adaptation expands the animated universe of Junji Ito’s terrifying tales, following previous series such as Junji Ito Collection (2018), Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre (2023), and the long-awaited Uzumaki mini-series, which finally premiered in September 2024 after multiple delays.
“Karasu Ageha” by Yumi Matsutōya to Soundtrack the Horror
Yumi Matsutōya, a legendary figure in Japanese music, is set to provide the haunting auditory backdrop for Junji Ito Crimson with her new theme song, “Karasu Ageha”. The announcement was accompanied by the release of a music video for “Karasu Ageha,” which notably features original illustrations by Junji Ito himself. The music video’s central character, also named Karasu Ageha, is depicted as a conduit connecting the underworld with the present world, a concept that aligns perfectly with the supernatural themes often explored in Ito’s manga. This theme song is slated to be part of Matsutōya’s upcoming 40th original album, expected to be released in the fall.
Expanding the Animated World of Junji Ito
The announcement of Junji Ito Crimson signifies a continued effort to bring more of Ito’s vast and varied catalog of horror stories to the animated screen. While specific stories to be adapted in Junji Ito Crimson have yet to be fully detailed, the series is expected to draw from various narratives within Ito’s extensive body of work, similar to previous anthology adaptations.
Junji Ito’s distinctive art style and narrative approach, characterized by grotesque imagery, psychological dread, and cosmic horror, have garnered a dedicated global fanbase. Previous anime adaptations have sought to capture the essence of his unique horror, with varying degrees of success. The Uzumaki anime, for instance, has been praised for its faithful black-and-white aesthetic, aiming to replicate the manga’s visual impact.
With Junji Ito Crimson, fans can anticipate another journey into the unsettling and macabre worlds conceived by the master of horror manga. The involvement of Yumi Matsutōya and the early release of her theme song’s music video, featuring Ito’s art, suggests a strong creative collaboration aimed at delivering an immersive and terrifying experience. Crunchyroll has also confirmed that they will be streaming the new series, making it accessible to international audiences.
