The animation director behind classics such as "Mononoke Hime (Princess Mononoke)", "Kimi no Na wa. (your name.)" is back with a new film but in a different role. Ando Masashi will be serving as a director for the first time in the upcoming "Shika no Ou Yuna to Yakusoku no Tabi " (lit.: The Deer King: The Promised Journey with Yuna), which is set to be released in Japan on Friday 4th February 2022! The magnificent scale of author Uehashi Nahoko's much-loved fantasy novel has finally been brought to life on the big screen. There was some concern as to whether or not the task was possible but Ando's beautiful cinematic depiction of the epic tale in his directorial debut has proven that the story can be told on film!

At the beginning of the movie, the audience is introduced to a world that is living under the rule of the Empire of Zol. The subjugated Kingdom of Aquafa devise a rebellion during the outbreak of an infamous disease called Black Wolf Fever. One of the key protagonists is a warrior named Van who has been captured and enslaved by the Zolian Empire. Van sets out on a journey with a young girl named Yuna after surviving an attack by infected mountain dogs. In a world clouded by mysterious deaths, Hohsalle, a doctor seeking to develop a cure for the disease and Sae, an assassin from the Kingdom of Aquafa, both aim to track down Van.

As the various layers of the story to start to unfold, the viewer begins to get a better understanding of the inner workings of the characters. The movie depicts interactions between people from different sections of society, countries, and races. Physical expressions of emotion, such as eye contact and hand gestures that convey feelings of love are also beautifully illustrated throughout the film. The artwork is astounding... It is truly a masterpiece! The wonderful cast of voice artists help bring the story to life. The movie stars Tsutsumi Shinichi, who plays the lone warrior Van, and Takeuchi Ryoma, who imbues the character of Hohsalle with a real sense of status.

What does the future hold for Van as he struggles against impending disaster? You will have to watch the film to find out! (Editorial Dept .: Nika)