The world of animated films is buzzing with excitement as the highly anticipated “Ninja Batman vs Yakuza League” has made its grand debut at Tokyo Comic Con 2024. This thrilling new installment promises to captivate audiences with its stunning visuals and engaging storyline. Join us as we delve into the highlights of this remarkable premiere and what fans can expect from this unique blend of Batman lore and Japanese culture.

Exciting Premiere Event

The premiere event was a star-studded affair, featuring key figures from the production. Notable attendees included Koichi Yamadera, the voice of Batman, along with directors Junpei Mizusaki and Shinji Takagi, screenwriter Kazuki Nakashima, and character designer Yoshinori Okazaki. Each shared their thoughts and excitement about the project:

• Koichi Yamadera (Batman):“I have voiced various Batmans before, but this time, Batman faces an incredible enemy. The voice cast for the Yakuza League is amazing, especially Akio Otsuka as the Yakuza’s young leader! I put a lot of effort into my performance.”
• Junpei Mizusaki (Director):“I was able to bring Nakashima’s script to life. Such works are completed when the audience sees them. If you enjoy it, please recommend it to others!”
• Shinji Takagi (Director):“We aimed to enhance the density of the visuals. I hope you can confirm whether we achieved that today!”
• Kazuki Nakashima (Screenwriter):“After receiving praise for the previous work, I proposed several ideas, and the concept of the Yakuza League was quickly approved. Warner and DC are incredible for greenlighting this project!”
• Yoshinori Okazaki (Character Designer):“I didn’t struggle with any character designs because the script was enjoyable. I drew inspiration from various Yakuza images, as I have always loved yakuza films.”

New Cast Announcement

In conjunction with the world premiere, the final cast member for “Ninja Batman vs Yakuza League” was revealed. Takaya Kawaguchi will voice the main antagonist, “Steel Dark Evil,” the leader of the Steel Family, who plots to expand his territory from the suddenly appeared Japanese archipelago (known as Hinomoto) over Gotham City. Kawaguchi shared his thoughts on taking on this role:

• Takaya Kawaguchi (Steel Dark Evil):“I was aware that I lacked the innate qualities of a boss, such as a fierce spirit and presence, which made me hesitate at first. However, I was captivated by the previous film, had great trust in Kazuki Nakashima, and couldn’t resist the allure of the stellar cast. I decided to take the plunge and give it my all, reminding myself that I once ruled the universe (Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann). Please enjoy this outrageous adventure of Batman, which far surpasses the previous installment!”

About Ninja Batman vs Yakuza League

This film is a Japanese animated work born from the concept of “Batman x Ninja.” The previous installment featured Batman time-traveling to the Sengoku period, where he battled the evil ambitions of various warlords, including the Joker. Released in 2018, it was met with enthusiastic acclaim worldwide, particularly in North America.

The latest installment reunites a powerhouse of creators: directors Junpei Mizusaki and Shinji Takagi, screenwriter Kazuki Nakashima, character designer Yoshinori Okazaki, and animation studio Kamikaze Douga. The film is set to be released on various platforms in Japan on March 21, 2025. Stay tuned!

Cast and Crew

• Directors: Junpei Mizusaki, Shinji Takagi
• Screenwriter: Kazuki Nakashima
• Character Designer: Yoshinori Okazaki
• Music: Yugo Kanno
• Animation Production: Kamikaze Douga
• Batman: Koichi Yamadera
• Robin: Yuki Kaji
• Red Robin: Kengo Kawanishi
• Nightwing: Daisuke Ono
• Red Hood: Akira Ishida
• Green Lantern: Ayane Sakura
• Water Dragon: Akio Otsuka
• Speedster: Nobuyuki Hiyama
• Hawkgirl: Romi Park
• Harley Quinn: Rie Kugimiya
• Joker: Wataru Takagi
• Alfred Pennyworth: Yoshitada Otsuka
• James Gordon: Masaki Terasoma
• Ra’s al Ghul: Kazuhiro Yamaji
• Steel Dark Evil: Takaya Kawaguchi

For more information, visit the official website:Ninja Batman Official Site