The Lord of the Rings trilogy, directed and co-written by Peter Jackson, has secured its place in film history, adapting J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece into an epic fantasy saga. Now, for the first time, the untold story from 200 years before the original trilogy will be brought to the big screen in The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (Japanese title: The Lord of the Rings: Battle of Rohan), slated for a December 27th release in Japan, with both dubbed and subtitled versions available (except at select theaters).

Chosen to direct this Hollywood epic is Kenji Kamiyama, a leading figure in Japanese animation, known for his work on Eden of the East, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, and Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit. The animation production will be handled by the Japanese studio Studio Sola Entertainment, known for Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045: Sustainable War.

Executive producers Peter Jackson and Philippa Boyens, who were both instrumental in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies, are also involved as producers on this project.

The film adapts an original story that expands upon the account of Helm, the strongest king of the knightly nation of Rohan, as mentioned in Tolkien's Appendix to The Lord of the Rings. This character is beloved by fans of the original work.

In the first released footage, the familiar theme music rings out, revealing that this story takes place 200 years before the events of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The new protagonist is Hera, a young princess with beautiful yet fierce eyes, who stands up to enemies. Under the protection of her father, the mighty King Helm, the proud kingdom of Rohan has long enjoyed peace. However, when her childhood friend Wolf emerges as an enemy, the peace of the kingdom is threatened. To protect the people of Rohan, Hera is destined to fight for the fate of the kingdom. With intense battle scenes, the legendary conflict that will shape the fate of Middle-earth begins!

Japanese Dub Cast Announced

The mighty King Helm of Rohan will be voiced by Masachika Ichimura, who has lent his voice to numerous anime projects in addition to being an accomplished actor.

Princess Hera, the protagonist destined to protect the kingdom, will be voiced by Fuka Koshiba, a multi-talented actress known for her roles in films, dramas, variety shows, and television commercials. This marks her debut as a voice actress in a feature-length animation.

Wolf, Hera's childhood friend and the threat to the kingdom, will be voiced by Kenjiro Tsuda, known for his roles in popular series like Jujutsu Kaisen as Kento Nanami. He has also gained recognition for his work in both film and television.

The Fellowship of The Lord of the Rings will also return. Supporting Princess Hera is Orlwynn, voiced by Takako Honda, who voiced Éowyn in the Japanese dub of the original Lord of the Rings films. In the subtitled version, Orlwynn will be portrayed by Miranda Otto, who famously played Éowyn in the original films, creating a miraculous collaboration across time.

Additionally, Lotho, an important character related to the story's Orcs, will be voiced by Manabu Muraji, who previously voiced Meriadoc Brandybuck (played by Dominic Monaghan) in the Japanese dub of The Lord of the Rings. Rieve, a squire of Rohan, will be voiced by Shun Taya, known for his roles in How to Train Your Dragon as Hiccup and in Kenji Kamiyama's Eden of the East.

Comment from Masachika Ichimura (King Helm)

"I had always hoped to take part in a large-scale animation project like this, so I’m truly delighted. I loved the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and Frodo Baggins’ big eyes left a lasting impression on me back then. Fear, joy, and a glimpse into the future—the grand adventure was told through his eyes. Since this film depicts events 200 years earlier, I believe it will be a story that delves deeply into the essence of The Lord of the Rings."

"Helm, the character I play, is known as the 'Hammerhand King,' a man so strong that he can defeat enemies with his bare fists. Even just recording the preview left my voice hoarse, showing how much power was needed to fully embody the role. This film will portray the emotional drama between King Helm and Princess Hera. As a parent of two children myself, I think there are aspects of the story that I can relate to. I hope everyone will look forward to the completion of the film."

Comment from Fuka Koshiba (Princess Hera)

"Even after 20 years since its release, the Lord of the Rings trilogy remains fresh and incredibly engaging. With its heart-pounding storyline and its exploration of human greed through the 'One Ring,' it is truly a masterpiece. This is my first time voicing a character in an animated film, and I feel a great deal of pressure, but also determination to give my all as Princess Hera, the protagonist of this new chapter in a series beloved by fans worldwide."

"Princess Hera is a dignified woman who was raised with love by her father, King Helm. She is skilled in both horseback riding and swordsmanship. Though she starts off uncertain, she finds the resolve and strength to protect her people and fight against the kingdom’s threats as a princess. The main recording is still ahead of us, but I believe that both fans of the Lord of the Rings and newcomers to the series will enjoy it. It’s a great responsibility, but I hope everyone will look forward to this grand story’s completion."

Comment from Kenjiro Tsuda (Wolf)

"The Lord of the Rings trilogy, a cornerstone of fantasy, was created with incredible energy and continues to shine brightly in cinematic history. I was captivated by it when it first came out, and I am honored to be part of the latest installment in this beloved series."

"Director Kenji Kamiyama is exceptional at blending complex, philosophical themes with entertainment that anyone can enjoy. The character I play, Wolf, is not simply a villain—he has his own reasons and drama behind his actions. The themes resonate even in today's world, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Director Kamiyama brings it all together."

"I believe that this Lord of the Rings animated film will retain the vast world and dynamic action of the original while embracing the unique qualities of animation. I think both longtime fans and those unfamiliar with the series will enjoy immersing themselves in this rich fantasy world."

Source : ORICON NEWS