From the latest original feature-length animation Fureru. (releasing on October 4th), directed by Tatsuyuki Nagai, written by Mari Okada, and with character design by Masayoshi Tanaka, the team behind the "youth trilogy" that moved hearts—Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (2013), The Anthem of the Heart (2015), and Her Blue Sky (2019)—six new scene photos have been released. These stills reveal the current lives of Aki (voiced by Ren Nagase), Ryo (voiced by Ryuta Bando), and Yuta (voiced by Kentaro Maeda), and give a glimpse into their communal living arrangements, which are central to the story.

Aki, portrayed by Nagase, works part-time at a bar. Ryo, played by Bando, is a new graduate employee at a real estate company. Yuta, voiced by Maeda, is a fashion student aiming to become a designer. Now 20 years old, each of them is pursuing different paths. Although their personalities and hobbies differ—Aki is quiet, prone to using his fists since childhood, but deeply caring toward his friends, Ryo is athletic and acts as a big brother figure to Aki and Yuta, and Yuta, despite his occasional bouts of insecurity, harbors dreams of becoming a designer—they have moved to Tokyo’s Takadanobaba and begun living together with a mysterious creature called "Fureru," which they brought with them from their island.

While each of them works toward their goals, they take turns caring for "Fureru," share household chores, and enjoy meals together, often prepared by the culinary-inclined Aki. The scene photos give a warm glimpse into their harmonious life under one roof.

Regarding this project, Nagase commented, “This film makes you rethink the importance of communication and human connection in daily life. It’s a work that everyone, regardless of age or generation, should see right now.” Bando added, “It’s a story that makes you reconsider how you connect and relate with others.” The deep friendship between the three, linked by "Fureru," plays a pivotal role in the film. Maeda shared that, “During the recording sessions, we laughed and were moved, all working together with a strong bond,” highlighting the captivating interactions between the trio, who seem like childhood friends.

Moreover, the new song Monochrome by YOASOBI, marking their first use in an animated film as a theme song, will be released on CD on October 2. The song is based on the novel Fureru. no Zenya (The Night Before Fureru.), written by Okada specifically for the film. The CD will come in a picture book-style booklet, inspired by the legend of the mysterious creature "Fureru" as seen in the film. The jacket illustration is an original work by the film’s official art team, and the novel Fureru. no Zenya will also be included. CD pre-orders start today, August 23, with information on store-exclusive purchase bonuses also announced.

Source : ORICON NEWS