Mamoru Hosoda’s eagerly anticipated new anime feature film, Scarlet (Japanese title: Hateshinaki Scarlet), has unveiled an impressive roster of additional voice cast members, further building anticipation for its release. The film, from Studio Chizu, is set to debut in Japanese theaters on November 21 and in the United States on December 12.
A Stellar Ensemble Joins Mana Ashida and Masaki Okada
Previously announced, Mana Ashida takes on the titular role of Scarlet, a princess navigating a quest for vengeance, while Masaki Okada voices Hijiri, a modern-day nurse who becomes Scarlet’s companion in the enigmatic “Land of the Dead.” The latest announcement introduces eleven prominent actors, many of whom are familiar faces in Japanese cinema and television, bringing their depth of experience to the animated world of Scarlet.
Among the newly revealed cast, acclaimed actor Koji Yakusho steps into the pivotal role of Claudius. Yakusho, a frequent collaborator with Director Hosoda, marks his fourth consecutive voice appearance in a Hosoda film, following his roles in The Boy and the Beast, Mirai, and Belle. Claudius is depicted as a ruthless and inhumane king responsible for the murder of Scarlet’s father, King Amlet, and usurping the throne. He actively seeks Scarlet’s life in the “Land of the Dead.”
Key Supporting Characters and Their Voice Actors
The expanded cast includes several other significant characters, many of whom bear names reminiscent of William Shakespeare’s tragedy Hamlet, hinting at the film’s thematic inspirations.
- Masachika Ichimura portrays Amlet, Scarlet’s kind-hearted father, who was framed and executed by Claudius.
- Kotaro Yoshida voices Voltimand, a close associate of Claudius who leads the knights and targets Scarlet in the “Land of the Dead.”
- Yuki Saito joins as Gertrude, Scarlet’s mother, who, having given up on Amlet, conspires with the ambitious Claudius.
- Yutaka Matsushige is cast as Cornelius, another influential aide to Claudius, characterized by his physical strength.
- Kazuhiro Yamaji takes on the role of Polonius, a close associate of Claudius tasked with monitoring Scarlet’s movements in the “Land of the Dead.”
- Tokio Emoto voices Raretees (Laertes), who, alongside Polonius, keeps tabs on Scarlet and her allies.
- Munetaka Aoki plays Rosenkranz, a retainer of Claudius whose objective is to eliminate Scarlet.
- Shota Sometani completes the pair as Guildenstern, another retainer of Claudius working with Rosenkranz to target Scarlet.
- Noa Shiroyama will voice a young girl Scarlet encounters in the “Land of the Dead.”
- Kayoko Shiraishi provides the voice for a mysterious old woman, also encountered by Scarlet in the “Land of the Dead.”
Scarlet‘s Intriguing Premise and Visual Style
Scarlet is an original work, with Mamoru Hosoda credited as director, screenwriter, and original creator. The narrative centers on Princess Scarlet, who, after a failed attempt to avenge her father’s murder, awakens in a realm known as the “Land of the Dead.” This world is described as brimming with madness, where individuals must confront their nemeses or risk being reduced to “Emptiness” and ceasing to exist. The film promises an adventure that transcends imagination and a relentless struggle, posing the question of whether Scarlet can find a way to live at the conclusion of her endless journey.
Hosoda has previously teased that Scarlet will feature a distinctive visual style, aiming for a completely fresh look that deviates from both traditional 2D animation and Hollywood-style CG. He has also indicated that the film draws inspiration from a “world-famous work on par with Beauty and the Beast,” further emphasizing its grand scope and narrative ambition. The film will also incorporate elements of action and romance, promising a multifaceted cinematic experience.
