What happens when Earth's peaceful existence clashes with the Moon's fight for independence?

Produced by WIT Studio, Moonrise features character concepts by Hiromu Arakawa (Fullmetal Alchemist) brought to life by Chiaki Kobayashi and Yuto Uemura, with an original theme song by... pic.twitter.com/efcgHJYcTE

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Japanese Sci-Fi Animated Series 'Moonrise' Premieres April 10

What happens when Earth's peaceful existence clashes with the Moon's fight for independence? Premiering on April 10, Moonrise unfolds on a grand scale, adapting the novel by Tou Ubukata (author of "Tenchi Meisatsu" and series composition/scriptwriter for Fafner in the Azure and Psycho-Pass) to explore this question. Directed by Masashi Koizuka (Attack on Titan Seasons 2 and 3) and produced by WIT Studio (Ranking of Kings, SPY x FAMILY), this brand-new sci-fi series features stunning character concepts by manga artist Hiromu Arakawa ("Fullmetal Alchemist," "Silver Spoon"). Together, they combine their expertise to form this all-original masterpiece.

In a not-too-distant future, humanity has established a loosely organized world government with everything managed by an international AI network called Sapientia. People live peaceful lives by loyally obeying its rational decisions. However, Sapientia's lunar development project, which sends criminals and pollutants to the Moon to maintain Earth's peace, creates disparity and poverty on the Moon, sparking a catalyst for war. Jacob "Jack" Shadow gets caught up in this conflict after losing his family to a terrorist bombing by the Moon's rebel army. Vowing revenge, Jack joins the Earth army as a scout on the Moon, only to discover an unexpected leader among the resistance forces.

Chiaki Kobayashi voices Jack, the series protagonist, with Yuto Uemura lending his voice to Phil Ashe, Jack's childhood friend. "Daijoubu," by AiNA THE END, serves as the original theme song for this anime series. The newly released stills offer a glimpse into the epic space battle that awaits viewers.

The key to the intense cosmic conflict lies in Jack and Phil's roots. As this vast tale of destiny and rebellion unfolds, what awaits beyond the tragic struggle between the Earth and the Moon?

Moonrise premieres April 10, only on Netflix.

Comments from the Director/Casts:

Director Masashi Koizuka: "This may be WIT Studio's first space opera. It is our team's first original work produced with Netflix. There was a real sense of excitement and a sort of madness as we were making it, and I believe that's visible throughout the series. I've looked over the completed footage many times, and it's clear that the voice actors infused their performances with passion, and the staff elevated the production far beyond what we'd envisioned. I hope everyone will enjoy the results of that synergy."

Chiaki Kobayashi: "I am honored to be voicing Jack in the anime Moonrise. I feel extremely honored to be able to work on this project alongside such wonderful people who I respect very much. As this is an original anime, much of the story remains shrouded in mystery, but the powerful and fast-paced action is incredibly appealing. To ensure that we match the intensity of the amazing animation, we, the cast, are giving it our all, shouting and fighting with all our might. I hope you will watch it and feel the passion that this work embodies. Moonrise!"

Yuto Uemura: "The dubbing sessions for "Moonrise" took place over a long period of time, and it was a pleasure to feel the energy. I am extremely happy because I have been eagerly waiting for this announcement. The series is full of battle scenes and intense clashes, and Phil is a character who is moving forward with firm convictions and ambitions, but also struggling in the midst of the conflict. I put my all into my performance of Phil. I hope you enjoy the various emotions and stories behind the characters."

Project Details:
Original Work by: Tou Ubukata
Original Character Design by: Hiromu Arakawa
Character Design by: Ayumi Yamada
Directed by: Masashi Koizuka
Animation Production by: WIT STUDIO

Cast:
Chiaki Kobayashi (Jacob "Jack" Shadow)
Yuto Uemura (Phil Ashe)

Theme Song by: AiNA THE END ("Daijoubu")

Title Page: netflix.com/Moonrise