Shoji Kawamori's 'Labyrinth' Anime Film Unleashes Epic Main Trailer, Stunning Visual, and Expanded Star-Studded Cast

The highly anticipated anime feature film Labyrinth, known in Japan as Meikyuu no Shiori, has ignited a fervor within the anime community by officially releasing its main trailer, a breathtaking new visual, and an expanded list of acclaimed voice actors. This monumental reveal amplifies excitement for the project, set to debut on January 1, 2026, in Japan. Helmed by the legendary Shoji Kawamori, celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to iconic series like Macross and Aquarion, Labyrinth marks his first original feature-length animated film. Expectations are soaring for a production poised to masterfully intertwine Kawamori's distinctive musical sensibilities and captivating visual storytelling with a fresh, contemporary narrative.

Animation powerhouse Sanzigen, renowned for its cutting-edge CG work, is bringing this ambitious vision to life. The recently unveiled trailer offers a tantalizing glimpse into the film's enigmatic premise while also previewing the compelling theme song, "Sailor, Sail On." This track is performed by the sensational Japanese group ATARASHII GAKKO!, with its member SUZUKA also stepping into the pivotal role of lead voice actress for the protagonist, Shiori Maezawa. The film's auditory landscape is further enriched by the compositions of yonkey, celebrated for his infectious pop arrangements, promising a soundtrack as unforgettable as the visuals.

At its heart, Labyrinth plunges into the extraordinary journey of Shiori, a seemingly ordinary high school girl whose mundane existence is shattered when her smartphone malfunctions, unexpectedly transporting her into an eerie, deserted parallel version of Yokohama existing within her device. Simultaneously, a flamboyant doppelgänger, who ominously calls herself “SHIORI,” infiltrates the real world, usurping Shiori's identity and triggering an unsettling game of perception and reality. As Shiori navigates this perplexing digital maze, she crosses paths with Suguru Kagami, a young entrepreneur whose true intentions remain shrouded in mystery, adding layers of suspense to the unfolding drama.

The project's prestige is further solidified by new character visuals and an impressive expanded voice cast. Esteemed additions include Shō Hayami lending his voice to Shiori’s distant father, Keizō Maezawa; Maaya Sakamoto portraying her mother, Yoriko Maezawa; and Tomokazu Sugita as her homeroom teacher, Tōsaka. This rich ensemble promises to imbue the film’s emotional core with profound depth. The distinct and visually engaging character designs are the work of Risa Ebata, celebrated for her contributions to notable projects such as AKB0048 and Macross F. The intricate script is crafted by Taichi Hashimoto, known for his robust track record as a series composer for revisions and a story draft writer for Listeners. The comprehensive production team, overseeing everything from CG supervision to art direction, underscores a steadfast commitment to unparalleled quality and innovation. Slow Curve is managing project planning and production, with GAGA handling global distribution.

For enthusiasts of Kawamori’s storied career, Labyrinth presents an irresistible fusion of his signature thematic explorations identity, the power of music, and the pervasive influence of technology all encapsulated within a modern, deeply mysterious setting. The trailer's release has already sparked vibrant online discussions, with widespread acclaim for its captivating concept, the high-caliber casting, and the seamless synergy between ATARASHII GAKKO!’s theme song and the film’s enthralling atmosphere. With these fresh revelations and stunning visuals, anticipation continues to mount for what is poised to be one of the most creatively original and impactful anime features of early 2026.