Delving into the supernatural world where colossal spacecraft looms over Tokyo, the two-part anime film adaptation of Inio Asano’s mesmerizing Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction manga has just unveiled its latest trailer, featuring the enthralling theme songs. These tracks are uniquely performed by YOASOBI’s vocalist, Lilas Ikuta, known as “ikura,” and the equally captivating singer ano.
The opening film kicks off with the dynamic and resonant “Zett-Zett-Zett-Zett- Zettai Seiiki” (Abababab Absolute Sanctuary) by ano, who joins forces with Lilas Ikuta to create a powerful audio backdrop. For the sequel, Lilas Ikuta returns the favor, featuring ano in the evocative and heartfelt “Seishun Ōka” (Adolescence Hymn), which can be heard first in the gripping trailer.
Lilas Ikuta not only lends her vocal prowess to the theme songs but also breathes life into the anime’s protagonist, Kadode Koyama. Similarly, ano gives voice to the main character Ouran “Ontan” Nakagawa, adding another layer of depth to their musical collaboration.
Meet the Dynamic Voice Cast
The films’ ensemble cast is rich with talent, ensuring an immersive viewing experience. Here’s a quick rundown:
Top Row Talents:
- Atsumi Tanezaki as the determined Kiho Kurihara
- Miyuri Shimabukuro voicing the feisty Ai Demoto
- Saeko Ooki in the role of the unwavering Rin Hirama
- Azumi Waki brings to life the lovable Futaba Takemoto
- The versatile Ryoko Shiraishi as Makoto Tainuma
Bottom Row Stars:
- Miyu Irino portraying the enigmatic Keita Ōba
- Kouki Uchiyama interpreting Kenichi Kohiruimaki
- Taito Ban lending his voice to Naoki Watarase
- Junichi Suwabe takes on Hiroshi Nakagawa
- Kenjiro Tsuda encapsulating Nobuo Koyama
Mark your calendars for March 22 and April 19, as these are the premiere dates for the first and second films respectively. The studio behind this ambitious project is Production +h, marking the first full-fledged anime adaptation of any of Asano’s creations.
The films boast an impressive creative team. Director Tomoyuki Kurokawa, known for works such as “Psychic Detective Yakumo,” leads the production. Reiko Yoshida, a familiar name from titles like “A Silent Voice,” oversees the series scripts. The character designs and animation direction fall under the talented Nobutake Ito, while artistic vision is provided by art director Mika Nishimura. The musical ambiance is deftly composed by Taro Umebayashi.
The manga, which piques our curiosity, follows the somewhat surreal life of the ordinary high schooler Kadode Koyama and her friend Ouran Nakagawa, set against the backdrop of an otherworldly mothership’s presence over Tokyo.
Six years of serialization in Shogakukan’s Weekly Big Comic Spirits magazine culminated in February 2022 with the release of the final chapter and 12th volume in March. Despite periodic hiatuses, the story captivated readers, earning it critical acclaim including the Best General Manga at the 66th Shogakukan Manga Awards and a spot in the 25th Japan Media Arts Festival Awards.
The manga’s significant presence in the western world can be attributed to Viz Media’s English releases, along with Asano’s other celebrated works like “Solanin” and “Goodnight Punpun.” Other notable pieces like “Nijigahara Holograph” and “A Girl on the Shore” have also been published internationally, with several adaptations into live-action films.
Sources: Oricon’s YouTube channel, Comic Natalie article
Final Thoughts
Inio Asano’s vivid imagination once again leaps from the page to the screen in this highly anticipated anime adaptation. The harmony of the vocal talent and the seasoned production crew promises a viewing experience that’s as enriching as it is entertaining.
For fans and newcomers alike, Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction offers a chance to explore Asano’s nuanced storytelling, intertwined with a haunting and beautifully orchestrated soundtrack. As the release dates approach, the excitement is palpable. Prepare to embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary, amidst a Tokyo that’s anything but.
