Hiroshi Kamiya on Mononoke: Fire Rat Release: “I Hope It Enriches Your Life”
Voice actor Hiroshi Kamiya appeared at the stage greeting event for Mononoke: Fire Rat, the second installment in the Mononoke film series, held in Tokyo on the 15th. Expressing his gratitude, he reflected on the significance of the film's release.
Hiroshi Kamiya at the stage greeting for Mononoke: The Movie - Chapter Two: Fire Rat (C) ORICON NewS inc.
During the event, Kamiya shared insights into the film’s appeal and the recording process. “I believe entertainment and visual works are not just sources of information but experiences,” he stated. “I hope that by watching this film, audiences can experience emotional growth and a richer life.” He also emphasized the unique value of watching the film in theaters:
Hiroshi Kamiya at the stage greeting for Mononoke: The Movie - Chapter Two: Fire Rat (C) ORICON NewS inc.
“The theater is a space dedicated solely to enjoying this work. In our daily lives, we're constantly multitasking—thinking about one thing while doing another. But the theater is different. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the experience.”
Closing his speech, he encouraged the audience, saying, “I hope you can take in this precious experience through Mononoke. Thank you very much.”
(From left) Chief Director Kenji Nakamura, Director Kiyotaka Suzuki, Yoko Hikasa, Hiroshi Kamiya, Haruka Tomatsu, and Kenyu Horiuchi at the stage greeting for Mononoke: The Movie - Chapter Two: Fire Rat (C) ORICON NewS inc.
Mononoke: The Movie – Chapter Two: Fire Rat (Kaso)
The Mononoke franchise originated from the 2006 anime anthology Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales with its popular Bakeneko arc. The series received its own anime adaptation the following year and has remained a cult favorite for 18 years.
Following the first theatrical installment, Mononoke: Karakasa, released in July 2024, this film is the second in a planned trilogy. It preserves the unique washi-paper textures and vivid, artful storytelling that define the series while expanding on the mysterious world of the Medicine Seller.
A Tale of Power Struggles in the Inner Palace
Mononoke Teaser Visual (C)Twin Engine
Following the first chapter, the story continues within the Ooku (Women’s Inner Palace), where noble families engage in ruthless schemes and conflicts over succession. As the women’s burning emotions manifest into a Mononoke, the Medicine Seller must once again confront this supernatural force.
The event featured Hiroshi Kamiya, Yoko Hikasa, Haruka Tomatsu, Kenyuu Horiuchi, director Kiyotaka Suzuki, and chief director Kenji Nakamura.
Source : ORICON NEWS