Kenji Iwaisawa's 'On-Gaku: Our Sound' Returns with Meticulously Refined 'Brush-Up Version'

Fans of acclaimed independent animation, prepare for a treat! Kenji Iwaisawa's critically lauded Japanese animated film, On-Gaku: Our Sound, is set to captivate audiences once more with a special "Brush-Up Version," launching on September 19, 2025.

This highly anticipated rerelease promises an elevated viewing experience, featuring over 200 meticulously cleaned-up cuts personally refined by Iwaisawa himself over an intensive six-month period. The updated edition will make its grand debut at Tokyo's prestigious Shinjuku Musashinokan theater, strategically timed to coincide with the opening of Iwaisawa's newest cinematic endeavor, 100 Meters (Hyakuemu), on the very same day. This offers a double celebration of his artistic vision.

Based on Hiroyuki Ohashi's original manga, ON-GAKU, the film chronicles the uproarious journey of three high school delinquents, utterly devoid of musical talent, who audaciously form a rock band. Their motivations are simple yet profound: to impress their sole friend and deftly navigate the perils of a rival gang.

On-Gaku: Our Sound has garnered widespread recognition for its distinctive lo-fi aesthetic, a masterclass in deadpan humor, and an immersive musical narrative that culminates in an electrifying and unforgettable finale. The film further boasts a lead vocal performance by the legendary Japanese alt-rock icon, Shintaro Sakamoto.

Since its international premiere at the Ottawa International Animation Festival in 2019, where it clinched the Best Feature Award, the film has been lauded for its unparalleled originality and sharp wit. It went on to secure the esteemed Ōfuji Noburō Award at the 75th Mainichi Film Awards and received nominations, including Best Independent Animated Feature at the Annie Awards. GKIDS, a prominent distributor, introduced the film to North American theaters in 2020, followed by its Blu-ray and DVD release in 2021.

This "Brush-Up Version" is not merely a rerelease; it is an invitation to rediscover the film's unique artistic brilliance and a testament to Kenji Iwaisawa's enduring and profound impact on the landscape of anime and independent animation.