Keigo Higashino's 'Kusunoki no Bannin' Anime Film Unveils Star-Studded Cast, Key Staff, and Gripping Trailer Ahead of January 2026 Premiere

Prepare for a compelling cinematic journey as Kusunoki no Bannin (The Keeper of the Camphor Tree), the much-anticipated anime film adaptation of Keigo Higashino's renowned mystery novel, has officially pulled back the curtain on its main cast, crucial additional staff, and a captivating teaser trailer. Fans worldwide can mark their calendars for January 30, 2026, when this intriguing narrative makes its grand debut in Japanese theaters.

The film plunges viewers into the life of Reito Naoi, a young man whose world shatters after an unjust dismissal from his job. Driven by a thirst for retribution, Reito commits a crime, leading him down a path of legal repercussions. As he awaits indictment, a mysterious lawyer extends an unexpected offer: freedom, contingent upon Reito's compliance with specific, undisclosed instructions. This intriguing premise sets the stage for a deeply character-driven mystery.

The Voices Behind the Mystery

The vocal talents bringing these complex characters to life have been announced. Fumiya Takahashi, celebrated for his role in Black Clover: Mahou Tei no Ken, steps into the shoes of the central protagonist, Reito Naoi. Joining him is the esteemed veteran actress Yuuki Amami, widely recognized for her powerful performance in Meitantei Conan Movie 20: Junkoku no Nightmare, who will voice the enigmatic Chifune Yanagisawa.

A Stellar Creative Team

Behind the scenes, a stellar team is shaping this cinematic vision. Tomohiko Itou, acclaimed director of Sword Art Online and ERASED, is at the helm, guiding the narrative with his seasoned expertise. The screenplay is penned by Taku Kishimoto, known for his masterful work on series like Haikyu!! and 91 Days, promising a script rich in suspense and emotional depth. Character designs are a collaborative effort, with Tsubasa Yamaguchi, the brilliant mind behind the Blue Period manga, lending his artistic vision alongside animation director Akiko Itagaki. The evocative art direction is handled by Hiroshi Takiguchi, celebrated for his contributions to Tenki no Ko.

The animation itself is a powerful collaboration between industry giants A-1 Pictures and Psyde Kick Studio, ensuring a visually stunning experience. Aniplex will be handling the distribution, bringing this thrilling adaptation to audiences.

The source material, Keigo Higashino's original novel, was first published by Jitsugyou no Nihonsha in hardcover in March 2020, followed by a paperback edition in April 2023. The recently released teaser trailer provides a tantalizing glimpse into the film's atmospheric mystery, underscored by the compelling tagline: This tree has a secret. This brief yet impactful preview hints at layers of narrative complexity and a deep, unfolding enigma.

For enthusiasts of Keigo Higashino's intricate storytelling and devotees of the mystery anime genre, Kusunoki no Bannin is poised to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience, seamlessly blending gripping suspense with profound character exploration. Its unveiling firmly establishes the film as one of early 2026's most anticipated anime projects.