Renowned anime director Hideaki Anno, known for his work on Neon Genesis Evangelion, recently announced a new project in collaboration with his studio Khara. The project involves the iconic Space Battleship Yamato anime series, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Anno revealed that Khara has obtained the necessary licenses from Yamato’s rights holders to produce new anime footage for the project.
During the announcement, Anno expressed his deep connection to the Yamato franchise, noting how it had inspired his interest in anime since his middle school days. He also mentioned his involvement in the opening sequence of the Space Battleship 2199 series. The new project, separate from the ongoing remake projects, will see the chief director of the remakes, Yutaka Izubuchi, collaborating with Anno and his team at Khara.
The original Space Battleship Yamato anime follows the story of the resurrected World War II battleship Yamato as it embarks on space voyages to protect Earth from alien threats. The franchise first aired on television in 1974, followed by a successful animated film in 1977. The upcoming project aims to capture the essence of the original series while introducing new elements to captivate both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.
Anno expressed his excitement for the project and shared his nostalgia for the impact Yamato had on his life. He recalled missing the first episode’s broadcast but eagerly watching the subsequent episodes, showcasing his dedication to the series even during his school days. With production slated to begin in 2025 and a theatrical release expected later on, fans can anticipate a fresh take on the beloved Yamato universe.
As the Space Battleship Yamato franchise continues to evolve and resonate with audiences, Anno’s involvement promises a unique and innovative approach to storytelling in the realm of science fiction anime. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration between Hideaki Anno, Khara, and the legendary Space Battleship Yamato series.
