Get ready to relive the magic! AnimEigo is set to release the beloved anime series “Looking for the Full Moon” (満月をさがして, Furu Mūn o Sagashite) with a complete English dub. This exciting news promises to bring the heartwarming story of Mitsuki Kouyama to a whole new audience and delight long-time fans. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated release.
A Shojo Gem Returns in HD
“Looking for the Full Moon” is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Arina Tanemura. It was serialized in Ribon, a shōjo manga magazine, from January 2002 to June 2004, and compiled into seven tankōbon volumes. The series follows Mitsuki Kouyama, a 12-year-old girl with a dream of becoming a singer. However, she’s facing a serious obstacle: a type of throat cancer that prevents her from singing properly.
One day, two shinigami (death gods), Takuto and Meroko, appear before her and reveal that she only has a year to live. However, they also grant her the ability to transform into a healthy 16-year-old girl, allowing her to pursue her dream under the stage name Full Moon.
The manga was adapted into a 52-episode anime television series produced by Nihon Ad Systems and broadcast on TV Tokyo from April 6, 2002, to March 29, 2003. While Viz Media previously held the English distribution rights, they only released the first 28 episodes with an English dub, leaving fans yearning for a complete release.
AnimEigo to the Rescue: A Complete Release is Coming
AnimEigo has stepped in to fulfill fans’ wishes by acquiring the North American home video rights for the anime. They are planning to release the entire series on Blu-ray in two sets in 2025. This release is particularly exciting because it will include the complete Viz English dub, including the previously unreleased episodes 28-52.
On Friday, April 26, 2025, AnimEigo announced that they had found the English dub for the entire series. Volume 1, containing the first 26 episodes, is already available for pre-order and is scheduled to be released on August 12, 2025. This volume features a brand new AstroRes upscale, bringing the classic shojo series to life in HD.
What to Expect From the Blu-ray Release
- Complete Series: All 52 episodes of “Looking for the Full Moon” will be available in two Blu-ray sets.
- HD Remaster: The series has been remastered in HD using AstroRes technology.
- Complete English Dub: The release will include the complete English dub, including the previously unreleased episodes 28-52.
- Original Japanese Audio: Fans can also enjoy the series with the original Japanese audio and subtitles.
- Extras: While details are still emerging, keep an eye out for potential extras such as interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and more.
A Bit About AnimEigo
AnimEigo is a well-known name in the world of anime distribution. Founded in 1988, the company has a long history of releasing classic and obscure anime titles in North America. They are known for their high-quality releases and dedication to preserving the original vision of the creators. Some of their notable releases include “Bubblegum Crisis,” “Oh! My Goddess,” and “You’re Under Arrest!”.
Why “Looking for the Full Moon” Still Resonates Today
“Looking for the Full Moon” is more than just a typical shojo anime. It deals with themes of love, loss, illness, and pursuing your dreams in the face of adversity. Mitsuki’s determination to become a singer despite her illness is inspiring, and her relationships with Takuto and Meroko add depth and humor to the story.
The series also features memorable songs and a heartwarming story that has resonated with fans for years. The combination of drama, comedy, and romance makes “Looking for the Full Moon” a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.
Where to Pre-Order and Stay Updated
Volume 1 of “Looking for the Full Moon” is available for pre-order on MediaOCD. Keep an eye on AnimEigo’s social media channels and website for updates on the release of Volume 2 and other exciting news.
Other Exciting AnimEigo Releases
In addition to “Looking for the Full Moon,” AnimEigo has announced several other exciting releases:
- Bubblegum Crash: The sequel to “Bubblegum Crisis” is getting an HD remaster via AstroRes and will be released on Blu-ray and VOD in January 2025.
- Time of Eve: The complete series, including the movie and original ONA, is scheduled for release in December 2024 on Blu-ray and VOD. The film will be available in both dub and sub.
- Romeo’s Blue Skies: The TV anime series will be released on a 3-disc Blu-ray set in June 2025.
- Vampire Princess Miyu: The complete OVA series is scheduled for Blu-ray release in July 2025.
The Enduring Appeal of Shojo Anime
“Looking for the Full Moon” is a prime example of why shojo anime continues to be popular. Shojo anime, aimed primarily at a young female audience, often features themes of romance, friendship, and self-discovery. These stories often explore complex emotions and relationships, making them relatable and engaging for viewers of all ages.
A New Chapter for a Beloved Anime
The upcoming release of “Looking for the Full Moon” with a complete English dub marks a new chapter for this beloved anime. Thanks to AnimEigo’s dedication and the discovery of the long-lost English dub, fans will finally be able to experience the entire story in English. Get ready to sing along with Mitsuki and rediscover the magic of “Looking for the Full Moon”!.
