The latest buzz in the anime world revolves around Natsuki Hanae, who is set to bring a beloved character to life once again. This time, he will voice Kensuke, the son of the iconic character Nana from the series of the same name. Additionally, Hanae will reunite with the creative duo behind the acclaimed anime ODDTAXI, director Baku Kinoshita and writer Kadzuya Konomoto, for their upcoming original anime film, The Last Blossom.
The film’s official website recently announced that Hanae will be starring as Kensuke. Fans of ODDTAXI will recall Hanae’s outstanding performance as the protagonist Odogawa, a role that solidified his talent and versatility as a voice actor.
The Last Blossom, also known as Housenka, has been generating significant anticipation. The film premiered in Japan and made a strong impression at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where it was featured in the Feature Film Competition. A sneak peek of the film was also part of the Work in Progress lineup at the previous year’s Annecy Film Festival, further building excitement among anime enthusiasts.
The story of The Last Blossom is both poignant and intriguing. Set in autumn 2023, the narrative follows Akutsu, an elderly inmate serving a life sentence. As he faces his impending death, a talking Housenka flower prompts him to reflect on his past. The film then flashes back to summer 1986, where Akutsu is living with Nana and her son Kensuke in a modest apartment surrounded by Housenkas. The tale weaves together the final moments of a dying yakuza and the stories of his family, all narrated by a flower that blooms in prison.
The cast of The Last Blossom is a powerhouse of talent. Kaoru Kobayashi and Junki Tozuka will both voice the protagonist Minoru Akutsu, capturing his journey from youth to old age. Hikari Mitsushima and Yoshiko Miyazaki will similarly bring depth to the character of Nana Nagata, Akutsu’s partner, at different stages of her life. Pierre Taki will lend his voice to the enigmatic talking Housenka flower.
The film is directed by Baku Kinoshita, with Kadzuya Konomoto handling the script and the original concept. Animation production is overseen by CLAP, known for their work on Pompo: The Cinéphile and The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes. Michinoku-Toge is credited with the concept art, and the band cero has composed the film’s music, performing the theme song “Moving Still Life.”
Kinoshita and Konomoto’s previous collaboration on ODDTAXI has set high expectations for The Last Blossom, and fans are eagerly awaiting its release to see how this talented team will bring their new vision to life.
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News Source: Animenewsnetwork.com
