By: Mark Evangelista
Star Wars: Visions – an anime anthology series set in our favorite galaxy far, far away – is coming to Disney+ this September. Seven Japanese anime studios are bringing their unique talent and perspective to the upcoming series, which will be made up of nine episodes, each with a very distinct take on the space fantasy – including more than a few nods to Japanese culture.
“As a first formal venture into anime, each Star Wars: Visions short bears a unique Japanese sensibility, which in many ways align the tone and spirit of Star Wars storytelling,” Disney+ said in a press release.
From the beginning, stories told in the Star Wars universe have counted Japanese mythology and the films of Akira Kurosawa among their many influences, and these new visions will further explore that cultural heritage through the unique animation style and perspective of each anime studio.
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The seven Japanese anime studios and their respective episodes are Kamikaze Douga (Batman Ninja, Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure) for “The Duel”, Geno Studio (Golden Kamuy, Genocidal Organ) for “Lop & Ocho”, Studio Colorido (Burn the Witch, A Whisker Away) for “Tatooine Rhapsody”, Studio Trigger (Kill La Kill, Little Witch Academia) for the episodes “The Twins” and “The Elder”, Kinema Citrus (Tokyo Magnitude 8.0, The Rising of the Shield Hero) for “The Village Bride”, Science Saru (Japan Sinks: 2020, Devilman Crybaby) for the episodes “Akariri” and “T0-B1”, and Production IG (Ghost in the Shell, Psycho-Pass) for “The Ninth Jedi”.
Star Wars: Visions is executive produced by Lucasfilm’s Jacqui Lopez, James Waugh, Josh Rimes, and Qubic Pictures’ Justin Leach. Kanako Shirasaki is onboard as producer. Catch it on Disney+ on September 22.