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Japan Anime News Edit by Satoru Shoji

"The Elusive Samurai" Unveils New Cast and Theme Songs: Katsuyuki Konishi to Voice Takauji Ashikaga, DISH// and BOTCHI BOROMARU Provide OP & ED

The TV anime The Elusive Samurai, set to premiere on July 6, has announced its theme songs. The opening theme, "Plan A," will be performed by DISH//, and the ending theme, "Kamakura STYLE," will be performed by Bocchi Boromaru. Along with this announcement, the third PV and additional cast details have been revealed. Katsuyuki Konishi will voice Takauji Ashikaga, the protagonist Tokiyuki Hojo's greatest enemy, known for his compelling charisma.


Ashikaga Takauji "The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut

Ashikaga Takauji "The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut (C) Yusei Matsui/Shueisha, The Elusive Samurai Production Committee


In the PV, which begins with the phrase "The die has been cast," Tokiyuki Hojo, who loves to run away, is shown participating in a life-and-death game of tag. The character Suwa Yorishige says, "Takauji becomes a hero by killing, and you will become a hero by living." Can the "Elusive (good at escaping)" Tokiyuki survive and reclaim the world? The PV features DISH//'s "Plan A" as the opening theme.


Suwa Yorishige "The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut

Suwa Yorishige "The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut (C) Yusei Matsui/Shueisha, The Elusive Samurai Production Committee


Katsuyuki Konishi, known for his intense charisma, will voice the critical character Takauji Ashikaga, the protagonist's greatest foe.


"The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut

"The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut (C) Yusei Matsui/Shueisha, The Elusive Samurai Production Committee


"The Elusive Samurai" is based on the manga of the same name, which started serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in January 2021. Created by Yusei Matsui, known for "Neuro: Supernatural Detective" and "Assassination Classroom," the story is set in 1333 Kamakura. It follows the life of Tokiyuki Hojo, the last successor of the Kamakura shogunate, a young warlord renowned for his exceptional escape skills. The manga has surpassed 2 million copies in circulation.


"The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut

"The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut (C) Yusei Matsui/Shueisha, The Elusive Samurai Production Committee


The story focuses on Tokiyuki Hojo, a historical figure rarely chosen as a story's subject, highlighting his tumultuous life through Matsui's interpretation and artistry. The narrative begins with the sudden rebellion of Takauji Ashikaga, leading to the fall of the Kamakura shogunate. Tokiyuki, who was supposed to live as the shogunate's successor, loses everything at the age of eight due to this rebellion.


Shizuku "The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut

Shizuku "The Elusive Samurai" Scene Cut (C) Yusei Matsui/Shueisha, The Elusive Samurai Production Committee


However, Tokiyuki excels in escaping and surviving. Suwa Yorishige, a priest from Shinano Province, sees potential in him, leading Tokiyuki to embark on a path to becoming a hero through escape. The story depicts the historical spectacle of the South and North Courts through Tokiyuki's journeys of flight, concealment, and counterattack.


Comments from DISH//

DISH

DISH


Takumi Kitamura:
"I am thrilled to create and sing the theme song for a TV anime. The joy of coming home from school to watch anime as a child is something I still cherish, and 'Runaway Young Lord' will be a part of someone's daily enjoyment. It's a great honor to announce the beginning of such a series. There are times when running away is the best option, and I believe that's the coolest way to approach challenges. We created 'Plan A' with this in mind. I hope everyone enjoys it."

Masaki Yabe:
"I've loved watching anime since I was little, and I still enjoy anime and manga. It's an honor to be part of this wonderful work. I hope our song captures the hearts of viewers, as great anime always have great theme songs. We'll be supporting the series with our song 'Plan A.'"

Toi Tachibana:
"Reading the manga, I was captivated by its pacing and thrilling battle scenes, which inspired many ideas for the song. Thank you for this incredible opportunity."

Daichi Izumi:
"I love Japan's proud anime and manga culture, and I'm delighted to be part of this project. I hope our music can contribute to the work."



Source : ORICON NEWS