The upcoming TV anime series, Hana-Doll: Reinterpretation of Flowering, has released a new teaser trailer, revealing its opening theme song and official premiere date. The anime, based on the popular Hana-Doll 2.5D mixed-media project, is set to debut in Japan on April 9, 2025.
Opening Theme and Premiere Details
The teaser trailer showcases the anime’s opening theme song, “Clockwork Flowers,” performed by **Anthos, the in-story idol group central to the *Hana-Doll project. The trailer also unveiled that Anthos will be performing the ending theme, titled “Fall leaves after fall“. The CD single for “Clockwork Flowers” is scheduled for release on April 11, 2025, in Japan. However, the anime-size version of the song is already available for digital streaming and downloads.
The series will be broadcast on various networks including Tokyo MX, BS NTV, Sun TV, KBS Kyoto, and TV Aichi.
The Hana-Doll* Project: A Deep Dive
The Hana-Doll* project, created by MOVIC, is a 2.5D idol series that blends music and drama. It explores the concept of creating the “perfect idol” through a controversial method. The project’s premise centers around the “Hana Ningyo Project” (Flower Doll Project), which involves implanting special flower seeds into the bodies of aspiring idols. This procedure enhances their potential by removing the limits placed on human brain capacity. The implanted seed also records their memories and genes, exerting influence over their bodies and unlocking their full potential.
The project’s story revolves around young men working as idols for the fictional entertainment agency “Amagiri Productions.” These boys have undergone grueling auditions and training. The Hana-Doll* world is a convergence of art and medical technology, pushing the boundaries of what it means to be an idol.
Core Groups: Anthos* and Loulou*di
The Hana-Doll* franchise features two main idol groups:
- Anthos: This seven-member all-male group is the focal point of the series. The name Anthos is derived from the Greek word for “flower” and represents a unit that grows and evolves over time. Anthos* initially started their activities in a “pre-debut” stage. They officially debuted as a seven-member group after the flowers of the original six members bloomed, welcoming the secret member Setsuna Yashiro.
- Louloudi: This group consists of three members and also plays a significant role in the Hana-Doll universe.
Anime Adaptation: Reinterpretation of Flowering
The anime adaptation, Hana-Doll*: Reinterpretation of Flowering, will adapt the first season of the original drama CD series, titled “Flowering.” The franchise has released three seasons of drama CDs so far. The drama CDs are known for their intellectually stimulating content, incorporating investigative elements into their narratives.
The anime is produced by A-Real, with Masahiro Takata (known for The Iceblade Sorcerer Shall Rule the World) directing. GyroKnuckle (The Family Circumstances of the Irregular Witch) is overseeing the series scripts, while Risa Arai (18if) is designing the characters. Saya Fukase from UWAN Pictures is handling the 3DCG production. R/0, the creator of the Hana-Doll* franchise, is credited as the “Amagiri” supervising producer.
Voice Cast
The anime features a talented voice cast including:
- Seiichiro Yamashita as Mahiro Yuki
- Daiki Hamano as Ryoga Kagekawa
- Kent Ito as Lihito Tōdo
- Wataru Komada as Chitose Shorai/Chise
- Shunichi Toki as Kaoru Kisaragi
- Toshiki Masuda as Haruta Kiyose
- Shun Horie as Setsuna Yashiro
Thematic Elements
The Hana-Doll* project explores complex themes through its narrative. The core question that it poses is, “Are the idols human or dolls?” This highlights the project’s focus on artificial enhancement and its impact on identity. It delves into the concept of pushing human limits to achieve perfection, while raising ethical questions about the cost of such aspirations. The story follows the growth of the young men who, despite their diverse backgrounds and motivations, share the common goal of achieving their dreams within this competitive and often harsh world.
The anime is expected to expand upon the existing lore, adding layers to the project’s already intriguing narrative. The unique blend of idol culture, science fiction, and dark undertones is set to offer a fresh perspective on the idol genre.
Other Media
The Hana-Doll* franchise spans various forms of media:
- Music: Multiple CD albums and singles have been released, featuring music from the different idol groups.
- Drama CDs: These audio dramas form the core of the narrative and expand upon the world of Hana-Doll*.
- Manga: A manga series titled Hana-Doll: Flowering: Boys were still in a dream* was serialized in Kodansha’s Shōnen Magazine Edge.
- Merchandise: A wide array of merchandise, including plushies, apparel and accessories are available for fans to purchase.
- Stage Plays: Live stage plays are also part of the project, bringing the characters and story to life.
Fan Engagement
The Hana-Doll* project has cultivated a dedicated fanbase. Fans can find translations from official sources on various fan sites. There is an official online shop for merchandise, and fans can even send letters to the characters through an online form. This interactive approach to fan engagement creates a strong sense of community around the project.
The Hana-Doll*: Reinterpretation of Flowering anime is highly anticipated. With its unique premise, talented cast and crew, and a strong established fanbase, the anime has the potential to captivate audiences worldwide. The premiere date of April 9, 2025, is eagerly awaited.
