A fresh adaptation of Osamu Tezuka’s iconic work Princess Knight is scheduled to debut on Netflix this August. Named The Ribbon Hero, the feature is helmed by Yuki Igarashi, featuring original character designs by Kei Mochizuki, artistic direction by Cedric Herole, produced by Twin Engine, and animated by Outline.
The official plot description states that the movie “depicts the story of a lone hero who chooses to defy a harsh destiny, set in a delicately crafted world and brought to life through polished action.”
The Ribbon Hero draws inspiration from The Princess Knight manga by Tezuka, first introduced in 1953.
Igarashi initially gained considerable attention for his sophisticated solo work as key animator on the ending sequence of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 1. His directorial debut, Star Wars: Visions – Lop & Ochō, was well received in both Japan and abroad for its nuanced storytelling and dynamic action sequences. The Ribbon Hero signifies Igarashi’s inaugural venture into directing a feature-length film.
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According to Director Igarashi, “For this film, I poured in my respect for Osamu Tezuka, the creator of Princess Knight, for Ichizo Kobayashi of the Takarazuka Revue, which lies at the root of the work, and for the supreme, classic entertainment they contributed to the world. They also created their works while facing hardships like infectious diseases and war, with those creations forming the very foundation of our culture. To everyone living in this era, I hope you enjoy this blood‑stirring, heart‑pounding piece of what I believe is ‘true’ mainstream entertainment.”
Kei Mochizuki provides the original character designs, leveraging experience from developing beloved characters for games such as Fate/Grand Order and Touken Ranbu. Mai Yoneyama, who acted as the ending director on Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and Lazarus, joins as a collaborator on the character concepts. Kazunari Arakaki serves as animation character designer, with Cedric Herold assuming the role of art director. Animation is managed by Outline, a studio led by director Igarashi and recognized for its compelling character designs and visually striking animation.
Known as “the Father of Manga,” Tezuka (1928-2989) is best recognized for creating timeless children’s manga such as Astro Boy, Princess Knight, Kimba the White Lion, and adult series like Black Jack, Phoenix, and Buddha. Princess Knight (Ribon no Kishi) chronicles the adventures of Sapphire, a girl born with “the blue heart of a boy and the pink heart of a girl.” She masquerades as a prince to thwart the villainous Duke Duralumin from seizing control of the kingdom. The narrative drew inspiration from the all-female musical theater group known as Takarazuka Revue, where women played both female and male roles.
Source: Netlix
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Recognized as “The Father of Manga,” Osamu Tezuka is renowned for creating enduring classics such as Astro Boy, Kimba the White Lion, and Princess Knight.
The Ribbon Hero image: (C) Twin Engine
