Japan’s popular snack, Tabekko Doubutsu, is set to be adapted into an animated film. The movie, titled Tabekko Doubutsu THE MOVIE, marks the first time the snack has been brought to the big screen and is scheduled for release on May 1, 2025. Along with this announcement, a teaser visual, character visuals, and a special video have been unveiled.

Tabekko Doubutsu has been a beloved snack since it first went on sale in 1978. The biscuits, shaped like various animals with their English names inscribed, promote the theme "Eat, Learn, and Have Fun." The snack, which has become a long-selling product of Ginbis and is available in over 20 countries worldwide, has seen a surge in popularity, particularly among young people. The animal characters featured on the packaging have gained such widespread appeal that there were increasing calls for a film adaptation, which has now come to fruition.

The staff for the film has also been announced. The movie is directed by Hitoshi Takekiyo, known for his work on the feature-length animated film After School Midnighters. The screenplay is written by Tetsuhiro Ikeda, who has penned scripts for popular works such as Kichijoji Losers, Patalliro! the Movie, and Go! Boys' High School Drama Club. The animation production is handled by Marza Animation Planet, renowned for their work on Lupin III THE FIRST, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Captain Harlock.

The newly released teaser visual shows the film’s main character, Lion-kun, who is a fan favorite among Tabekko Doubutsu fans, lovingly hugging a small child with his fluffy body. Additionally, starting on August 10, limited-edition mini cards featuring this visual will be distributed at the Tabekko Doubutsu LAND event currently being held in Yokohama.

In the special video titled "Freshly Baked Movie Logo Special Video," the announcement of the movie is made using Tabekko Doubutsu-like biscuits baked into the film's logo. The video shows Lion-kun dashing around energetically, offering a first look at Tabekko Doubutsu in motion for the first time in animated form.
Moreover, nine character visuals, showcasing the unique and charming personalities of the Tabekko Doubutsu animals, have also been revealed.

Regarding the decision to create this film, producer Kotaro Sudo (TBS Television) commented, “In today’s world, where online communication has increased, real-life interaction has become scarce. Reflecting on the significance of human connection, I was reminded of the presence of snacks. What enriches people’s hearts is ‘smiles,’ and the ‘friends’ with whom those smiles are shared. It is precisely because of the times we live in that we want to tell a story about ‘smiles, friends,’ and mutual understanding centered around the beloved Tabekko Doubutsu snack, which has been cherished globally across generations.”

Source : ORICON NEWS