Directed by Ryosuke Takahashi and produced by Sunrise, the mecha anime series Armored Trooper VOTOMS (装甲騎兵ボトムズ) is an undeniable 80s classic, a true icon for veteran mecha fans.
Back in January, it was announced that a brand-new Armored Trooper VOTOMS: The Gray Witch anime was in the works, marking the series' return after 15 years. Today (May 12), the project dropped a bombshell: it's hitting theaters as a two-part film series, with the first installment slated for a November 20 release! Alongside the big news, fans got a sneak peek with a special teaser trailer, a new key visual, and details on some of the core production team. Original creator and director Ryosuke Takahashi is also confirmed to be supervising the project.
Armored Trooper VOTOMS: The Gray Witch is the first new anime in the series in roughly 15 years, and it's also part of SUNRISE's 50th-anniversary celebration. The last entry in the franchise was the "Alone Again" OVA, released way back in April 2011.
This new film is helmed by none other than Mamoru Oshii, the visionary director behind the "Ghost in the Shell" series – a move that's sure to thrill longtime fans! In addition to original creator and director Ryosuke Takahashi supervising, the mechanical design will be handled by Shinnosuke Tsuneki, known for his work on "Legend of the Galactic Heroes." Manga artist Yuudai Sono, who illustrated "Armored Trooper VOTOMS AT Stories," is also joining the team.
On the music front, longtime Oshii collaborator and composer Kenji Kawai is taking the reins. Having scored classics like the "Ghost in the Shell" series, Kawai is practically an indispensable soul for Oshii's works.
[Director: Mamoru Oshii]
"I've been a huge fan of 'Armored Trooper VOTOMS' for ages and always wanted to work on something like this. Some of you might be wondering if I'm going to cram in some standing soba noodles again (laughs), but I'm dead serious about this one. We're really going all out with the war action."
[Original Creator/Supervisor: Ryosuke Takahashi]
"Films inherently carry a director's unique 'style,' and I'm actually a big fan of the 'Mamoru Oshii style' myself. I'm really looking forward to seeing how Mamoru Oshii, as a visual creator, will showcase his distinctive directorial flair this time."
So, it's official: "Armored Trooper VOTOMS: The Gray Witch" is coming as a two-part theatrical film, with the first installment hitting screens on November 20 this year. Fans eager for more details will just have to keep an eye out for future official announcements!
▼ "Armored Trooper VOTOMS: The Gray Witch" Teaser Trailer
via： 『装甲騎兵ボトムズ灰色の魔女』公式サイト