It should come as no surprise that a lot of Japanese films, specifically Akira Kurosawa’s works, influences much of the aesthetics of the Star Wars lore. So it makes sense that we get to see those influences in action in an anime anthology series called “Star Wars Visions.” Star Wars fans first got wind of this when it was announced during an investment meeting a few months back. Then we got a first look at what’s to come and all of the varying styles from acclaimed directors and artists in a trailer. Now Disney has released a brand new trailer that not only gives us more footage to drool over but also has announced the cast that will voice the characters from Jedis and Siths to bounty hunters and more.
While this may not be essential to the Star Wars universe that we know now, it does provide a look into a galaxy that has gone unexplored. And so it is exciting to see how Lucasfilm wants some of the biggest names possible, including some very memorable actors (both live-action and voice) from the Star Wars universe, to be a part of this.
“Lucasfilm is partnering with seven of the most talented anime studios in Japan to bring their signature style and unique vision of the Star Wars galaxy to this inspired new series,” says James Waugh, executive producer and Lucasfilm Vice President, Franchise Content & Strategy. “Their stories showcase the full spectrum of bold storytelling found across Japanese animation; each told with a freshness and voice that expands our understanding of what a Star Wars story can be, and celebrates a galaxy that has been such an inspiration to so many visionary storytellers.”
Additionally, because “Star Wars Visions” is an anime anthology, it will not only utilize Japanese animation houses to produce respective episodes, but also have Japanese actors voicing them as well. The talents include Masaki Terasoma, Akeno Watanabe, Hiroyuki Yoshino, Akio Kaneda, Tokuyoshi Kawashima, Takaya Kamikawa, Chinatsu Akasaki, Shin-ichiro Miki, and Kenichi Ogata.
The studios creating the nine shorts include Kamikaze Douga – “The Duel”; Geno Studio (Twin Engine) – “Lop and Ochō”; Studio Colorido (Twin Engine) – “Tatooine Rhapsody”; TRIGGER – “The Twins” and “The Elder”; Kinema Citrus – “The Village Bride”; Science Saru – “Akakiri” and “T0-B1”; and Production I.G. – “The Ninth Jedi.”
The new trailer provides a glimpse of the captivating tone and stunning visuals from each of the animated shorts, which can all be viewed both with the original Japanese voice cast or the English dub cast when the series launches on Disney+ on September 22.
We’ve included both trailers for you enjoyment.
“Star Wars Visions” premieres exclusively on Disney+ on September 22, 2021.
