A new promotional video for The Rose of Versailles anime film has been released, highlighting Oscar François de Jarjayes. Alongside the trailer, seven new cast members have been announced, adding to the already star-studded lineup. The film, adapted from Riyoko Ikeda’s classic manga, is set to premiere in Japan on January 31, 2025.
New Cast Members and Their Roles
The newly revealed cast members include several veteran voice actors, each bringing their unique talents to the iconic characters:
- Madame Noailles will be voiced by Fumi Hirano, known for her role as Lum in the 1981 anime Urusei Yatsura.
- Louis XV will be voiced by Hōchū Ōtsuka, famed for his portrayal of Yazan Gable in Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam.
- Rosalie will be voiced by Saori Hayami, recognized for her role as Shinobu Kocho in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
- Colonel d’Agout will be voiced by Jin Yamanoi, who played King Clays in I Parry Everything.
- General Bouille will be voiced by Akio Ōtsuka, known for his role as Dimple in Mob Psycho 100.
- Madame Jarjayes will be voiced by Sumi Shimamoto, remembered for her role as Kyoko Otonashi in Maison Ikkoku.
- Robespierre will be voiced by Kenshō Ono, known for his role as Ukyo Saionji in Dr. STONE.
These additions join the already announced main cast, which 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.
Other cast members include Shunsuke Takeuchi as Alain de Soissons, Takuya Eguchi as Florian de Gerodelle, Miyu Irino as Bernard Châtelet, Fukushi Ochiai as Louis XVI, Banjō Ginga as General Jarjayes and Mayumi Tanaka as Maron Glacé Montblanc. Hitomi Kuroki, a former Takarazuka star, will narrate the film.
The Promo Video
The promotional video focuses on Oscar François de Jarjayes, highlighting her journey and pivotal moments from the upcoming film. The trailer offers a glimpse into the drama and emotion that fans can expect from the adaptation of the beloved manga. The film promises a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.
Production Team and Music
The film is directed by Ai Yoshimura, known for her work on Case File nº221: Kabukicho. The screenplay is written by Tomoko Konparu, who has worked on Ashita no Nadja and Uta no Prince-sama – Maji Love 1000%. Mariko Oka, known for Hell Girl, is the character designer. The music is produced by Hiroyuki Sawano of Attack on Titan fame, along with Kohta Yamamoto. Animation production is being handled by MAPPA, a studio renowned for high-quality animation. The theme song, “Versailles”, is performed by singer-songwriter Ayaka.
Story Synopsis
The Rose of Versailles is a historical drama that takes place in the late 18th century, in the opulent court of Versailles, France, on the cusp of the French Revolution. The story revolves around several key characters:
- Oscar François de Jarjayes, a woman raised as a man, who serves as a palace guard. She is the heir to a general’s family, and her role places her at the heart of the French court.
- Marie Antoinette, the elegant and noble queen who arrives from Austria. Her life, filled with courtly intrigue and challenges, is central to the narrative.
- André Grandier, a commoner who is Oscar’s servant and childhood friend. His loyalty and love for Oscar are a key part of the drama.
- Hans Axel von Fersen, a handsome and intelligent Swedish count, whose arrival further complicates the lives of the main characters.
The film explores themes of love, duty, and destiny against the backdrop of a turbulent era. The characters navigate complex relationships while facing the inevitable changes brought on by the French Revolution.
Release and Streaming Details
The Rose of Versailles anime film is scheduled to release in Japanese cinemas on January 31, 2025. Prior to the theatrical debut, there will be a free streaming of the original anime series in Japan. Five episodes will be released each week from January 17 to March 7, allowing fans to revisit the classic series before the film’s premiere.
A Timeless Classic Reimagined
The Rose of Versailles remains a beloved story that has captivated audiences for decades. With its rich characters, historical backdrop, and compelling themes, the new anime film is poised to bring this classic manga to a new generation. The combination of a talented cast and crew, along with the latest in animation technology, promises a cinematic experience that will honor the original manga while offering fresh perspectives.
The film is produced by MAPPA and distributed by Toho, with support from the French Embassy in Japan and the Institut français. The anticipation for this film is high, and fans around the world are eager to experience this classic story on the big screen. The release of the new trailer and the announcement of additional cast members have only heightened this excitement.
This new adaptation is not just a remake; it’s a reimagining of a timeless story, blending historical elements with powerful character drama. The combination of veteran voice actors, a talented production team, and a beautiful score should make this an unforgettable cinematic experience.
