Netflix is set to transport viewers back to 18th-century France with the upcoming streaming release of the new The Rose of Versailles anime film. Based on Riyoko Ikeda’s iconic manga, the film promises a fresh take on the historical drama, romance, and political intrigue that have captivated audiences for decades. Mark your calendars for April 30th, as that’s when this tale of love and revolution becomes available on Netflix.
A Classic Reimagined
The Rose of Versailles, also known as Lady Oscar, first emerged as a manga series in 1972 and quickly gained a devoted following. Its blend of historical fiction, romance, and gender-bending themes resonated deeply, particularly with young female readers. The story unfolds in pre-revolutionary France, focusing on two central figures:
- Oscar François de Jarjayes: A woman raised as a man to become her father’s heir, Oscar commands the Royal Guard and is tasked with protecting Queen Marie Antoinette.
- Marie Antoinette: The young Queen of France, caught in a web of courtly intrigue and facing growing discontent from her subjects.
The manga’s success led to various adaptations, including an anime television series in 1979, stage musicals by the Takarazuka Revue, and a live-action film. Now, over 50 years since the manga’s debut, a new anime film adaptation is set to enchant a new generation of viewers.
What to Expect from the New Film
The new Rose of Versailles anime film, produced by MAPPA, aims to bring the classic story to life with updated animation and a fresh perspective. Here’s what we know so far:
Story: The film will follow the intertwined destinies of Oscar, Marie Antoinette, André Grandier (Oscar’s childhood friend and servant), and Hans Axel von Fersen (a Swedish aristocrat) as they navigate the tumultuous years leading up to the French Revolution. The story explores themes of love, loyalty, sacrifice, and the struggle for freedom against the backdrop of a decadent and crumbling aristocracy.
Production: The film boasts a talented creative team, with Ai Yoshimura (Ao Haru Ride, Cheer Boys!!) directing, Tomoko Konparu (Uta no Prince-sama, From Me to You: Kimi ni Todoke) writing the screenplay, and Mariko Oka (First Love Monster, Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan) designing the characters. Hiroyuki Sawano (Attack on Titan) produced the music, composing it alongside KOHTA YAMAMOTO (Ooku: The Inner Chambers).
Visuals: Produced by MAPPA, known for its work on Jujutsu Kaisen and Yuri on Ice, the film promises stunning visuals that capture the grandeur of 18th-century France and the beauty of the characters.
Music: Ayaka, a popular Japanese singer, performs the theme song “Versailles,” adding another layer of emotional depth to the film.
Voice Cast: The film features a stellar voice cast, including:
- Miyuki Sawashiro as Oscar François de Jarjayes
- Aya Hirano as Marie Antoinette
- Toshiyuki Toyonaga as André Grandier
- Kazuki Katō as Hans Axel von Fersen
- Akio Ōtsuka as General François Claude de Bouillé
- Daiki Yamashita as Jean
- Fukushi Ochiai as Louis XVI
- Hōchū Ōtsuka as Louis XV
- Kenshō Ono as Maximilien de Robespierre
- Miyu Irino as Bernard Châtelet
The Enduring Appeal of The Rose of Versailles
The Rose of Versailles has resonated with audiences for decades due to its compelling characters, dramatic storyline, and exploration of timeless themes. Here are some key reasons for its enduring appeal:
Strong Female Characters: Oscar and Marie Antoinette are complex and multifaceted characters who challenge societal norms and defy expectations. Oscar’s journey as a woman raised as a man and her eventual embrace of her own identity has inspired many.
Historical Setting: The French Revolution provides a rich and dramatic backdrop for the story, adding depth and complexity to the characters’ struggles. The series blends historical accuracy with fictional elements, creating a captivating and immersive world.
Romance and Intrigue: The relationships between Oscar, André, Marie Antoinette, and Fersen are filled with passion, jealousy, and heartbreak. The series explores the complexities of love and loyalty in a time of political upheaval.
Themes of Freedom and Equality: The Rose of Versailles touches upon themes of freedom, equality, and social justice, which continue to be relevant today. The series challenges viewers to question authority and fight for what they believe in.
Where to Watch
The Rose of Versailles anime film will be available for streaming on Netflix starting April 30th. The film will be available with both English subtitles and an English dub, making it accessible to a wide audience.
A Glimpse into the Plot
In the late 18th century, four individuals find their lives intertwined amidst the opulence and turmoil of Versailles:
- Oscar François de Jarjayes: Raised as a son by her father, a distinguished general, Oscar becomes the commander of the Royal Guard. She is a skilled swordsman and a woman of unwavering conviction.
- Marie Antoinette: The daughter of the Austrian Empress, destined to become Queen of France. She is admired for her grace and elegance but struggles with the pressures of her position as the revolution looms.
- André Grandier: Oscar’s devoted servant and childhood friend. He harbors unspoken feelings for Oscar and remains steadfast in his loyalty to her.
- Hans Axel von Fersen: A handsome and intelligent Swedish count who becomes entangled in the affairs of the French court and develops a close relationship with Marie Antoinette.
As the French Revolution gains momentum, these characters must confront their own destinies and make difficult choices that will shape the course of history.
What Critics Are Saying
The film opened in Japan on January 31, 2025, and has garnered mixed reviews. Some critics have praised the film’s stunning visuals, compelling characters, and faithful adaptation of the original manga. Others have noted that the film is highly compressed, attempting to condense a complex story into a shorter runtime.
Despite the mixed reviews, The Rose of Versailles remains a beloved and influential work, and the new anime film is sure to attract both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Beyond the Film: Exploring the World of The Rose of Versailles
For those who want to delve deeper into the world of The Rose of Versailles, there are several options:
The Manga: Read Riyoko Ikeda’s original manga series to experience the full story and explore the characters in greater depth.
The Anime Series: Watch the 1979 anime television series, which offers a more expansive adaptation of the manga.
The Musicals: Experience the Takarazuka Revue’s elaborate stage productions of The Rose of Versailles, known for their extravagant costumes and all-female cast.
The Live-Action Film: Watch the 1979 live-action film Lady Oscar, a campy and visually striking adaptation of the manga.
Final Thoughts
The Rose of Versailles is a timeless tale of love, loss, and revolution that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With its upcoming release on Netflix, the new anime film offers a fresh opportunity to experience this iconic story and discover the beauty and drama of 18th-century France. Will you be watching?
