All-Star Creators Assemble! "THE RIBBON HERO," a Netflix Film Inspired by Osamu Tezuka's "Princess Knight," to Premiere in August

The Netflix film "THE RIBBON HERO," based on the classic manga "Princess Knight" by Osamu Tezuka, is set for a worldwide exclusive premiere this August. Along with this announcement, the teaser visual, main staff, and staff comments have been revealed.

Yuki Igarashi, known as one of the industry's most versatile animators, will serve as director. He garnered attention for his sophisticated animation in the ending sequence of "JUJUTSU KAISEN" (Season 1), which he animated single-handedly. His directorial debut, "Star Wars: Visions - Lop and Ochō," received high praise both domestically and internationally for its meticulous storytelling and powerful action scenes. This film marks Igarashi’s long-awaited debut as a feature film director.

The original character designs are by Kei Mochizuki, who has designed popular characters for numerous games such as "Fate/Grand Order" and "Touken Ranbu ONLINE." Furthermore, Mai Yoneyama, who served as the ending director for "Cyberpunk: Edgerunners" and "LAZARUS," joins as the original character design collaborator. In addition, Issei Arakaki will serve as the animation character designer, and Cédric Hérole will be the art director.

The animation will be produced by OUTLINE, a studio led by Director Igarashi. The studio is known for its strength in creating charming characters and its overwhelming, stylish animation. This team of talented creators has come together to depict the story of a hero who decides to resist a cruel fate, portrayed through a delicate worldview and sophisticated action.

The newly released teaser visual is a special illustration by Kei Mochizuki, the original character designer. It depicts the young female protagonist, featuring a large red ribbon reminiscent of the original "Princess Knight," which exerts a particularly strong presence.

"I won't be who someone else wants me to be." This tagline reflects the girl's inner conflict and determination as she struggles to reject the expectations of those around her and choose her true self. Her captivating expression, which reflects emotions that cannot be described in a single word, is also impressive.

What will she confront, and what will she fight? While the details of the story have not yet been revealed, expectations are high for how "Princess Knight"—the masterpiece shojo manga featuring the cross-dressing protagonist Sapphire, created by the "God of Manga" Osamu Tezuka, whose work continues to find new readers even 37 years after his death—will be reborn for the modern era.