Get ready, space travelers! The legendary sci-fi saga "Galaxy Express 999," which captivated audiences with its manga in the late 70s and spawned numerous anime adaptations and films, is officially getting a brand-new theatrical anime film! The announcement dropped on July 25th, sending ripples of excitement through the fandom.
While there have been several special screenings and compilations in recent years, this marks the first entirely new theatrical anime film since "Galaxy Express 999: Eternal Fantasy" hit screens way back in 1998. That's a whopping 28-year wait, making this a truly unexpected and thrilling surprise for long-time fans!
"Galaxy Express 999" is the iconic sci-fi masterpiece created by the late manga legend, Leiji Matsumoto. The original manga ran from 1977 to 1981 in "Weekly Shonen King," followed by a TV anime adaptation from 1978 to 1981. Its first theatrical film premiered in 1979, cementing its status as an enduring classic in Japanese animation history.
The story follows Tetsuro Hoshino, a young boy inspired by his mother's dream to board the Galaxy Express 999. Their destination: the Andromeda Nebula, where he hopes to receive a free mechanical body. However, his mother is tragically killed by "human hunters"—mechanized beings. Soon after, Tetsuro encounters the mysterious woman Maetel, who gives him a ticket. Thus begins his enigmatic journey aboard the train, traversing various planets across the cosmos.
The official announcement also revealed key production staff. The story concept will be handled by Rintaro, who famously directed the 1979 "Galaxy Express 999" theatrical film and the 2001 film "Metropolis." Animation production will be helmed by Toei Animation, celebrating its founding this year. The voice cast will be announced at a later date.
(Note: Masako Nozawa voiced the protagonist Tetsuro Hoshino in the anime series, while the late Masako Ikeda voiced Maetel.)
Regarding the new project, Makiko Matsumoto, representative director of Leijisha (founded by Leiji Matsumoto) and Matsumoto's eldest daughter, shared her excitement:
"Thank you all for your patience. It has been nearly half a century since the first 'Galaxy Express 999' theatrical film. We are incredibly happy to finally announce this brand-new work, fulfilling my father's greatest wish with the support of Toei Animation. Creating animated films was my father's lifelong dream, one he cherished since childhood. This unwavering belief will continue to race along the silver rails that traverse the vast galaxy. I believe my father would be immensely pleased to embark on this journey with everyone once again. Please look forward to the film's official release."
While "Galaxy Express 999" might be an older title, its significance in Japanese sci-fi is undeniable, with a profound and lasting influence. Its return to the big screen after such a long hiatus is undoubtedly a deeply moving moment for many veteran fans.
The official channels promise more details soon, so stay tuned for further updates!
via： 松本零士 零時社 オフィシャルサイト