The highly anticipated CG anime short, Milky☆Subway: The Galactic Limited Express, has unveiled its second trailer, revealing additional voice cast members and its theme song ahead of its premiere on July 3. This new installment serves as a sequel to animator Yohei Kameyama’s widely acclaimed 2022 CG short, Milky☆Highway.
A Return to the Stars with a New Journey
Milky☆Subway: The Galactic Limited Express continues the creative vision of Yohei Kameyama, who is credited with writing, directing, producing, and handling the character designs and sound production for the short. Kameyama’s previous work, Milky☆Highway, garnered significant attention, amassing 6.75 million combined views across its original and English-subtitled versions, establishing a strong foundation for this new adventure. The sequel promises to build upon its predecessor’s unique charm, expanding the narrative within its meticulously crafted CG world.
The narrative of Milky☆Subway plunges viewers into a comedic yet chaotic space odyssey. The story centers on superhuman Chiharu and cyborg Makina, who find themselves arrested for breaking intergalactic traffic laws. As a consequence, they are sentenced to community service: cleaning the “Milky☆Subway,” an interplanetary train. What begins as a routine task quickly devolves into pandemonium when the train unexpectedly blasts off into the depths of deep space, trapping its motley crew of misfits onboard. The official synopsis teases a “never-before-seen space-train spectacle, powered by nothing but pure momentum!”
An Ensemble of Stellar Voice Talent
The second trailer for Milky☆Subway: The Galactic Limited Express has brought to light an impressive roster of voice actors joining the previously announced leads. Anna Nagase, known for her role as Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad ISEKAI, lends her voice to Makina, the resourceful cyborg. Joining her is Momoko Terasawa, who voices the superhuman Chiharu, having previously played Chika Komari in Makeine: Too Many Losing Heroines!.
The newly revealed cast members add considerable depth to the ensemble:
- Hisako Kanemoto as Akane, a superhuman character. Kanemoto is recognized for her work as Zenith Greyrat in Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation.
- Makoto Koichi portrays Kanata, forming another superhuman pair with Akane. Koichi’s credits include Lloyd in I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince.
- Koki Uchiyama takes on the role of Kurt, one of the cyborg pals. Uchiyama is well-known for voicing Rin Itoshi in BLUE LOCK.
- Yoshitaka Yamaya voices Max, the other cyborg companion. Yamaya’s notable roles include Itsuki Kawasumi in The Rising of the Shield Hero.
- Mikako Komatsu steps into the role of Ryoko, the police officer responsible for sentencing the group. Komatsu has previously voiced Fels in Is It Wrong to Try to Pick up Girls in a Dungeon?.
This diverse and experienced cast is poised to bring Kameyama’s vibrant characters to life, adding personality and humor to the unfolding cosmic chaos.
A Nod to the Past: The Theme Song Choice
Adding to the short’s unique flavor is its choice of theme song: “Gingakei Made Tonde Ike!” (Fly to the Galaxy!) by the iconic Japanese girl group Candies. Originally released in 1977, the inclusion of this classic track provides a nostalgic touch and an unexpectedly fitting auditory backdrop to the futuristic, albeit quirky, space adventure. The song’s energetic and whimsical tone perfectly complements the lighthearted sci-fi premise, promising an engaging viewing experience.
Production and Global Reach
Milky☆Subway: The Galactic Limited Express is a product of Titan Industries, with Shin-Ei Animation handling planning production. Yohei Kameyama’s comprehensive involvement in the project, from scriptwriting and direction to character design and sound, underscores his singular vision for the animated short.
The short is scheduled to premiere on July 3 on TOKYO MX in Japan. For a global audience, Milky☆Subway will also be simultaneously streamed on YouTube. In a significant move to ensure accessibility, dubbed versions will be available in ten different languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Hindi, Indonesian, Korean, Thai, Russian, and Chinese, allowing a broad international audience to enjoy the galactic escapade.
With its blend of seasoned and emerging voice talent, a compelling premise, and a nostalgic musical touch, Milky☆Subway: The Galactic Limited Express is set to offer a captivating and entertaining experience for anime fans worldwide this summer.
