THE RIBBON HERO RELEASE DATE/ TEASER ART

Osamu Tezuka’s classic manga “Princess Knight” is getting a new adaptation: THE RIBBON HERO will stream worldwide on Netflix in August 2026. Yuki Igarashi, regarded as one of the industry’s most versatile animators, directs the film. He first drew wide attention for the sophisticated animation he handled alone as key animator on the ending sequence of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 1. His directorial debut, Star Wars: Visions - Lop & Ochō, received high praise in Japan and abroad for its delicate storytelling and dynamic action scenes. THE RIBBON HERO marks Igarashi’s first time directing a feature-length film.

Director Igarashi says,

“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 brought into the world. They also created their works while overcoming hardships such as infectious diseases and war, and those works became 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, bringing experience from creating many fan-favorite characters for games such as Fate/Grand Order and Touken Ranbu. Mai Yoneyama, who served as ending director on Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and LAZARUS, joins as a collaborator on the character concepts. Kazunari Arakaki serves as animation character designer, while Cedric Herold takes on the role of art director. Animation is produced by OUTLINE, a studio led by director Igarashi and known for its compelling character designs and visually striking animation.

Bringing together a team of highly skilled creators, the film 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.