Netflix Unveils ‘The Ribbon Hero’ Anime Film Teaser and Key Art

Fans had a sneak peek at the upcoming Netflix anime feature film The Ribbon Hero today, as the streamer released the teaser trailer and key art. Streaming globally from August 8, the film is a new adaptation of Osamu Tezuka’s classic manga, Princess Knight.

The key art showcases the transformed image of the main character, Sapphire. In the center, we also see Sapphire in her pre-transformation state, adorned with her iconic red ribbon, alongside three new characters.

The teaser begins with intense scenes depicting the kingdom and its soldiers after a disaster occurred, followed by a heartrending scream from a severely injured Sapphire. Just when all hope seems lost, a figure appears before her… And enveloped in ribbons, Sapphire acquires the ability to transform. Finding a reason to persevere, she resolves to assist everyone in need. As scenes of her battling a monster unfold, we also catch a glimpse of a mysterious figure with a threatening grin. Can the newly forged hero restore balance to the world?

Coinciding with the reveal, it was announced that Saya (Lalande) has been cast as the voice of Sapphire, marking her first leading role in a feature-length animated film. Saya expressed in a statement that the director shared aspects of Sapphire’s background and upbringing that resonated with her own. “Now that I’m over 30, I’ve never had a job where I struggled and enjoyed the challenge this much. I’d be so happy if you could watch it!” she remarked.

The director is Yuki Igarashi, recognized as one of the most adaptable animators in Japan. He first garnered attention for his sophisticated solo animation in the ending sequence of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 1. His directorial debut, Star Wars: Visions – Lop & Ochō, received acclaim in Japan and internationally for its intricate storytelling and dynamic action scenes. The Ribbon Hero marks Igarashi’s first project as a feature director.

The key creative team includes original character designer Kei Mochizuki, acclaimed for creating beloved characters for games like Fate/Grand Order and Touken Ranbu; character concept collaborator Mai Yoneyama, who served as an ending director for Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and Lazarus; animation character designer Kazumari Arakaki; and art director Cedric Herold. The animation is produced by studio OUTLINE, led by Igarashi. The Ribbon Princess is produced by Twin Engine.

Synopsis: Sapphire is the princess of a kingdom that no longer exists. Having lost everything in her homeland of Silverland due to the disaster known as “Nergal,” she wanders in despair until she finally arrives in Goldland. Although burdened by her past, she begins to find a spark of hope as she experiences the kindness of the people there. Yet, as if mocking her newfound tranquility, the calamity Nergal reemerges. The very despair that once turned her homeland to ashes now threatens to extinguish the light in this land as well.

“I won’t lose anything ever again. And I won’t let anyone else lose anything either.” Wiping away her tears of sorrow, the girl draws her sword. This is the tale of a lone hero who ties her ribbon and determines to defy her fate.