A new promotional video for the highly anticipated anime film adaptation of Riyoko Ikeda’s classic manga, “The Rose of Versailles,” has been released, this time putting the spotlight on the character of André Grandier. The film is set to premiere in Japan on January 31, 2025, marking a new chapter for the beloved story.
André Grandier Takes Center Stage
The latest video focuses on André Grandier, a character deeply intertwined with the protagonist, Oscar François de Jarjayes. André, a commoner and childhood friend of Oscar, serves as her attendant and confidant. He is known for his unwavering loyalty and his profound, often unspoken love for Oscar. The trailer showcases his character’s resolve and devotion, highlighting his role in the tumultuous events of the story.
This new trailer follows previously released character spotlights for Marie Antoinette and Oscar, building anticipation for the film’s release.
Character Overview: André Grandier
André Grandier is more than just a side character; he’s a crucial element in the narrative of “The Rose of Versailles.” Raised alongside Oscar, he serves as a grounding force amidst the opulence and political machinations of the French court. His character is described as a man who faces his destiny with an unyielding spirit and an all-consuming love.
In the upcoming film, André Grandier will be voiced by Toshiyuki Toyonaga, adding a new dimension to this fan-favorite character.
Film Details and Production
The new anime film is being produced by MAPPA, a studio renowned for its high-quality animation work. The film is directed by Ai Yoshimura, with the script written by Tomoko Konparu. Character designs are handled by Mariko Oka, and the music is composed by Hiroyuki Sawano and Kohta Yamamoto.
The cast includes:
- Miyuki Sawashiro as Oscar François de Jarjayes
- Aya Hirano as Marie Antoinette
- Toshiyuki Toyonaga as André Grandier
- Kazuki Katō as Hans Axel von Fersen
These actors bring new life to the iconic characters that have captivated audiences for decades. The film aims to capture the essence of Ikeda’s manga while also presenting it with modern animation techniques.
Release Date and Bonuses
The film is officially scheduled for release in Japanese theaters on January 31, 2025. To celebrate the release, theatergoers will receive a special bonus during the first two weeks of the film’s screenings. These bonuses will include a reproduction of Riyoko Ikeda’s original draft pages from the manga, featuring two famous scenes.
Additionally, a mini-anime series, “Berubara Mini!”, will be screened alongside the film, with a new episode each week during its theatrical run.
The Enduring Legacy of ‘The Rose of Versailles’
“The Rose of Versailles” is a landmark series in the shojo manga genre. Originally serialized in the manga magazine Margaret from 1972 to 1973, it tells a compelling historical drama set during the French Revolution. The series intertwines fictional characters with real historical figures, primarily focusing on Marie Antoinette and Oscar François de Jarjayes.
The series has been adapted multiple times, including:
- A 40-episode TV anime series that aired from 1979 to 1980
- A live-action film
- Numerous stage musicals by the Takarazuka Revue
The series has also garnered significant international acclaim, with Riyoko Ikeda receiving the Legion of Honour award from the French government in 2009. The story’s blend of historical drama, romance, and powerful female characters has made it a lasting influence on popular culture. The manga’s popularity even contributed to an increase in Japanese tourism to France, showcasing the series’ impact on a global scale.
Synopsis: A Tale of Love and Revolution
The story of “The Rose of Versailles” is set in pre-revolutionary France. The narrative revolves around Marie Antoinette, the young Austrian princess who becomes Queen of France, and Oscar François de Jarjayes, a woman raised as a man to serve as the commander of the Royal Guard. Oscar’s loyal friend and attendant, André Grandier, is a commoner whose life is intertwined with hers.
The series explores themes of social injustice, political intrigue, and personal sacrifice as the characters navigate the tumultuous times leading up to the French Revolution. The love triangle between Oscar, André, and the Swedish count Hans Axel von Fersen, adds a layer of romantic complexity to the story.
Characters: Key Players in the Drama
Oscar François de Jarjayes is the main character, a woman raised as a man by her father to become a military leader. She is depicted as a strong, independent, and noble character who questions the social norms of her time. She becomes the commander of the Royal Guard, tasked with protecting Marie Antoinette, and is a symbol of bravery and defiance.
Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France, is portrayed as a young, naive woman thrust into a role she is not fully prepared for. Her character undergoes significant development throughout the series as she learns to navigate the political landscape and the challenges of her position.
Hans Axel von Fersen, a Swedish count, is the object of affection for both Oscar and Marie Antoinette. His character adds another layer of romantic intrigue to the complex relationships within the story.
Rosalie Lamorlière, another important character, acts as an audience surrogate, providing perspective on the events of the story.
The 2025 Film: A New Take on a Classic
The 2025 anime film represents a significant revival of this classic series. With a talented team at MAPPA and a stellar voice cast, the film aims to honor the legacy of “The Rose of Versailles” while also introducing it to a new generation of fans. The focus on André Grandier in the latest trailer indicates the film’s intention to explore the complexities of his character and his relationship with Oscar.
The film’s release on January 31, 2025, is eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide, who are excited to experience this beloved story once again on the big screen. The bonus items for the first two weeks also serve as a great incentive for fans to go see it as soon as possible.
