“Just Being Able to Get Excited About Yamato Makes Me Happy”: Hideaki Anno's Space Battleship Yamato √2199 Is Underway! Social Media Celebrates: “Can't Wait”

On October 6, the 52nd anniversary of the show's 1974 debut, production was announced on the feature-length theatrical animation Space Battleship Yamato √2199, with director Hideaki Anno serving as executive producer and director, drawing a big response on social media.

Space Battleship Yamato, a landmark of science fiction anime, is a legendary work that shocked audiences in just 26 episodes, at a time when animation was still called “TV manga,” and set off a social phenomenon. In October 2024 it marked 50 years since its debut, and a host of anniversary projects, including screening events, exhibitions and publications, were carried out under the planning and production of director Anno, who has said, “If I had not encountered Space Battleship Yamato back then, I would not have the life I have today.”

Now, an all-new theatrical film has been announced, with Yutaka Izubuchi serving as co-director under Anno. Animation production will be handled by Production I.G and Studio Khara, in their first collaboration. The teaser visual, revealed for the first time, is an impactful piece showing Yamato about to launch into space from a devastated land.

Born in 1960, Anno reportedly became captivated by the series in his second year of junior high school. Half a century later, speaking about this project that he launched himself, he offered the following comment: “It is not only to fulfill a dream I had as a boy. We want to keep making a Yamato that carries our prayers and wishes for the next generation and for our own generation. That is the thought with which we are making it.” Production has been ongoing since 2024, and details such as the release timing will be announced as they are decided.

In response to the surprise announcement, many messages of joy and anticipation have appeared on social media, such as “So it's not called Shin Yamato,” “I'm happy just to be able to get excited about Yamato with everyone,” “The Yamato in the teaser looks way too cool...” and “Anno's Yamato, I can't wait.”

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