Bandai Namco Filmworks has released a trailer and visual for Gunjō no Asteroid (Ultramarine Asteroid), the third film in the Yamato yo Towa ni: Rebel 3199 (Be Forever Yamato: Rebel 3199) project. This latest installment remakes the classic Space Battleship Yamato series, promising a fresh take on the beloved space opera. Gunjō no Asteroid is slated to premiere in Japanese theaters on April 11, with a special limited-edition Blu-ray Disc available the same day. The retail Blu-ray and DVD release will follow on June 25.
Rebel 3199: A Modern Remake
Be Forever Yamato: Rebel 3199 is not just a simple remake. It’s an ambitious project that reinterprets the 1980 film Be Forever Yamato, recasting it as a 26-episode series. This reimagining allows for deeper exploration of the story and characters, adding new layers of complexity to the Space Battleship Yamato universe. The series is being released as a set of seven films.
Storyline and Key Differences
Rebel 3199 takes place in 2207, following the destruction of twin planets Gamilas and Iscandar by the Dezarium in 2205. Earth becomes the Dezarium’s next target. While Earth’s government is inclined to believe the Dezarium’s claim of being modified humans from a thousand years in the future, the crew of the Space Battleship Yamato remains skeptical.
The Yamato crew, led by Susumu Kodai and Yuki Mori, defies orders and embarks on a journey into uncharted space and time. Their mission: to uncover the truth about the Dezarium and find a way to save Earth. The series introduces twists and turns, separating Kodai and Mori, and presenting a different identity for their enemies.
The Third Film: Gunjō no Asteroid
Gunjō no Asteroid (Ultramarine Asteroid) is the third film in the Rebel 3199 series. TRUE performs the ending theme song “Eureka” for the film, with lyrics written by Miho Karasawa. The film opens in Japan on April 11.
Release Details
The first film, Be Forever Yamato: Rebel 3199: Part 1: Dark Invasion, premiered on July 19, 2024. The second film, Be Forever Yamato: Rebel 3199: Part 2: The Assault of the Burning Sun, was released on November 22, 2024.
The Legacy of Space Battleship Yamato
Space Battleship Yamato, also known as Star Blazers in the United States, is a science fiction anime series that first aired in Japan in 1974. Created by Leiji Matsumoto, the series follows the crew of the Space Battleship Yamato as they journey to the planet Iscandar to obtain a device that can save Earth from radiation poisoning.
The original Be Forever Yamato film was released in 1980. It tells the story of the Black Nebula Empire’s invasion of Earth. The Yamato crew discovers that the Yamato has been secretly rebuilt and sets sail to attack the Black Nebula’s home planet.
Themes and Impact
Space Battleship Yamato explores themes of hope, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds. The series has had a significant impact on Japanese popular culture and has gained a dedicated following around the world.
Rebel 3199: A New Chapter
Be Forever Yamato: Rebel 3199 continues the legacy of Space Battleship Yamato, offering a new generation of fans the chance to experience the epic space opera. With its updated visuals, complex storyline, and compelling characters, Rebel 3199 is a must-see for fans of the original series and newcomers alike.
Production Team
The Rebel 3199 project involves a talented team of directors, writers, and voice actors. Naomichi Yamato and Harutoshi Fukui are directing Be Forever Yamato Rebel 3199: Part 3: Ultramarine Asteroid. The cast includes Daisuke Ono and Houko Kuwashima. Harutoshi Fukui, Leiji Matsumoto, and Yoshinobu Nishizaki are credited as writers.
The Future of Yamato
As Space Battleship Yamato approaches its 50th anniversary, the franchise continues to evolve and captivate audiences. Be Forever Yamato: Rebel 3199 is a testament to the enduring appeal of the series and its ability to resonate with viewers across generations.
Enduring Popularity
The themes explored in Space Battleship Yamato, such as the fight for survival and the importance of hope, remain relevant today. The series’ focus on character development and emotional storytelling has also contributed to its enduring popularity.
Be Forever Yamato: Rebel 3199 is more than just a remake; it’s a reimagining of a classic that promises to deliver a thrilling and emotional experience for fans old and new. The release of the trailer and visual for Gunjō no Asteroid has only heightened anticipation for the film’s premiere in April.
