Mamoru Hosoda, the acclaimed director behind cinematic hits such as Belle and Mirai, has recently unveiled a new video, a key visual, and five additional cast members for his upcoming anime feature film, Scarlet (originally titled Hateshinaki Sukāretto or “Endless Scarlet”). The announcements build anticipation for the dark revenge fantasy, which had its world premiere at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2025.
“Scarlet” Unveils New Visual and Trailer
A new main poster visual has been released for Scarlet, providing a fresh glimpse into the film’s distinct aesthetic. An English version of this visual was also made available, hinting at the film’s global aspirations. Complementing the visual, a new trailer has been unveiled, showcasing the unique animation style that director Hosoda has emphasized. He previously stated that the film aims for a completely new look, eschewing traditional 2D or “Hollywood-style CG” animation. This visual and video offer fans a deeper dive into the mystical world of Scarlet, a story centered on a princess traversing time and space.
Expanding the Cast of “Scarlet”: Key Voice Actors Join
The latest announcement confirms several prominent voice actors joining the already impressive cast of Scarlet. Previously, Mana Ashida was revealed as the voice of the titular heroine, Scarlet, with Masaki Okada taking on the role of Hijiri.
The newly revealed cast members further enrich the ensemble, with many roles drawing inspiration from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The new additions include:
- Koji Yakusho as Claudius
- Masachika Ichimura as Amleth
- Kotaro Yoshida as Voltimand
- Yuki Saito as Gertrude
- Yutaka Matsushige as Cornelius
- Kazuhiro Yamaji as Polonius
- Tokio Emoto as Laertes
- Munetaka Aoki as Rosencrantz
- Shota Sometani as Guildenstern
- Noa Shiroyama as Girl
- Kayoko Shiraishi as Old Woman
Additionally, four other cast members previously announced include Mamoru Miyano as Gravedigger (1), Kenjiro Tsuda as Gravedigger (2), Michio Hazama as Chief Elder, and Toshio Furukawa as Innkeeper. These additions promise a rich vocal performance for the film’s intricate narrative.
A Deeper Dive into the World of “Scarlet”
Produced by Studio Chizu, the film tells the story of Scarlet, a medieval-era princess on a perilous quest for vengeance after her father’s murder. After a failed attempt at revenge, she finds herself gravely injured in the “Otherworld,” or “Land of the Dead,” a realm described as brimming with madness and a place for the unfulfilled. Here, she encounters Hijiri, an idealistic young man from the present day who helps her heal and offers a vision of a future free from bitterness.
Director Mamoru Hosoda, who is both directing and writing the screenplay, has indicated that Scarlet will delve into profound themes of life and death, action, and romance. He also noted that the film is based on a “global classic” and will have a different feel from his previous works. This narrative depth, combined with Hosoda’s commitment to a groundbreaking animation style, positions Scarlet as a highly anticipated release.
Release Dates and Festival Circuit
Scarlet is scheduled for a theatrical release in Japan on November 21, 2025, distributed by Toho. While originally slated for a North American release on December 12, 2025, through Sony, the wide theatrical release has since been delayed to early 2026. However, Sony Pictures Classics plans an awards-qualifying run in late 2025.
The film has already begun its international festival circuit, making its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2025. It was also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 10, 2025, and is slated for screenings at the New York Film Festival. These early festival showings underscore the film’s potential for critical acclaim and its significant presence on the global animation stage.
