Tokyo, Japan – The upcoming animated film, Dragon Heart – Adventures Beyond This World, from the Happy Science Organization, will be showcased at AnimeJapan 2025 before its theatrical release in May. The film is already generating buzz among anime enthusiasts and those familiar with Happy Science’s previous ventures into animation.
AnimeJapan 2025 Exhibition
The official website for AnimeJapan has confirmed that Dragon Heart will feature an exhibition at the convention, scheduled to take place at Tokyo Big Sight on March 22nd and 23rd. This exhibition will provide attendees with a sneak peek into the movie’s plot and characters, setting the stage for its highly anticipated release. AnimeJapan is a major event in the Japanese animation industry, attracting numerous studios and fans from around the globe.
Film Synopsis and Story
Dragon Heart tells the story of Ryusuke, a junior high school student from Tokyo, who visits Tokushima during his summer vacation. There, he reunites with his cousin, Tomomi. While exploring the Anabuki River, they are swept away by a strong current. As they are sinking, a dragon appears, rescuing them and taking them to a mysterious old man. The old man reveals that they have died but can return to the world of the living if they explore the spirit world and discover their mission in life.
This revelation prompts Ryusuke and Tomomi to embark on a surreal journey through the spirit realm. Their adventure leads them to a dark, 1960s-esque city, where they encounter scenes of violence and despair, ultimately revealing that they have found themselves in hell. Their journey continues into the unknown, as they seek to understand their life’s purpose.
Production and Cast
The film is directed by Isamu Imakake, who also directed The Mystical Laws, another animated movie by Happy Science. Ryuho Okawa, the late founder of Happy Science, is credited as the executive producer and original creator for the movie.
The main cast includes Yūsuke Kobayashi as Ryusuke and Chinatsu Hirose as Tomomi. Other notable cast members are Shigeru Chiba, Shunsuke Takeuchi, and Shinichirō Miki. The theme song, titled “Dragon Heart,” is performed by kouta.
Happy Science’s History in Animation
Happy Science has a long history of producing animated films, often to promote their religious beliefs. Their previous works include:
- Hermes – Winds of Love (1997)
- The Laws of the Sun (2000)
- The Golden Laws (2003)
- The Laws of Eternity (2006)
- The Rebirth of Buddha (2009)
- The Mystical Laws (2012)
- The Laws of the Universe Part 0 (2015)
- The Laws of the Universe: The Age of Elohim (2021)
These films often explore themes of spirituality, the afterlife, and the search for meaning, all central tenets of Happy Science’s teachings. Dragon Heart seems to follow this trend, utilizing animation as a medium to convey its unique message.
Release and Expectations
Dragon Heart – Adventures Beyond This World is slated for release in Japan in May 2025, with the exact date set for May 23. The movie’s premiere at AnimeJapan is expected to generate substantial interest, drawing both fans of the animation genre and those intrigued by the religious organization’s philosophies. This film marks a continuation of Happy Science’s tradition of using animated movies to share their spiritual messages. It also breaks the organization’s 25 year streak of releasing a movie every 3 years since 1997, as this one is coming a year late.
AnimeJapan 2025 Overview
AnimeJapan, formerly known as the Tokyo International Anime Fair, is a major trade show that is held annually in Odaiba’s Big Sight convention center. This convention is one of the world’s largest anime-related events. AnimeJapan attracts many Japanese and international TV and film production companies, as well as toy, game and software developers.
This year’s event is scheduled to take place between March 22nd and 25th, with the first two days open to the general public and the last two designated for industry and media professionals. AnimeJapan 2025 will feature multiple stages for various anime series. Some of the most well-known titles that will be featured at the event include:
- Demon Slayer
- Jujutsu Kaisen
- My Hero Academia
- One Piece
- Rurouni Kenshin
The convention is renowned for showcasing the latest news, trailers, and announcements in the anime world, making it a key event for fans and industry professionals.
Controversies Surrounding Happy Science
Happy Science, while being a prolific producer of animated films, is not without its controversies. The organization has been described by some as a cult, and its recruitment practices have faced criticism. Hiroshi Okawa, the son of the late Ryuho Okawa, has publicly denounced his father’s teachings and described Happy Science as a “cult”, while also estimating the number of members to be around 13,000. He stated that his father’s spiritual channeling sessions are just a “performance.”
The group has also been criticized for its political views, particularly through its political wing, the Happiness Realization Party, which has advocated for nuclear deterrence and the amendment of Japan’s pacifist constitution. These controversies often accompany the release of Happy Science’s films, prompting both interest and scrutiny.
Conclusion
Dragon Heart – Adventures Beyond This World is a notable addition to Happy Science’s animation catalog. Its premiere at AnimeJapan 2025 provides a platform for fans to preview the movie before its May release. While the film is set to be a significant event in the anime calendar, it is important to consider the controversies surrounding the organization. This film is another example of how Happy Science integrates its unique spiritual views into popular entertainment.
