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Crunchyroll and Toei Animation Ink ‘One Piece Film Red’ Distribution Deal

The highly anticipated movie comes to theaters in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand this fall; Toei Animation announces special ‘One Piece’ events slated for next month’s Anime Expo 2022 in Los Angeles.

Crunchyroll and Toei Animation Inc. announced an agreement for the theatrical distribution of One Piece Film Red in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Produced by Toei Animation and creator Eiichiro Oda, the film is the 15th in the popular franchise. The highly anticipated feature will be released this fall with subtitled and dubbed versions.

“We’re excited to bring One Piece Film Red to theaters around the world this fall, which actually coincides with the 23rd anniversary of the One Piece franchise,” commented Toei Animation Inc. president and CEO Masayuki Endo. “This new film from creator Eiichiro Oda will truly captivate fans in a thrilling new adventure with the Straws Hats that features the debut of Uta – a mysterious new character in the world of One Piece.”

One Piece has been a cornerstone on Crunchyroll, delighting fans around the world,” noted Crunchyroll’s senior vice president of Global Commerce, Mitchel Berger. “We’re thrilled to bring audiences the next adventure in this global franchise and the adventure with a new stand-alone story in theaters.”

One Piece Film Red takes to the stage next month at the Anime Expo 2022 in Los Angeles. Toei Animation will host a series of special events, including a one-night music event, “One Piece Film Red presents Steve Aoki Live,” with two-time Grammy-nominated artist Steve Aoki. Also featured is a panel, “Toei Animation presents One Piece Film Red Panel.” The film’s producer, Shinji Shimizu, ADR director Anthony Bowling, and English dub actors Brandon Potter (Shanks) and Ian Sinclair (Brook) will attend both expo events.

One Piece Film Red is directed by Goro Taniguchi (One Piece Defeat Him! The Pirate Ganzack! OVA) and written by Tsutomu Kuroiwa (One Piece Film: Gold). Produced by Toei Animation and based on a popular manga title by creator Oda, the franchise encompasses theatrical films, home videos, video games, and a catalog of licensed merchandise that includes accessories, toys, novelties, furniture, housewares, and apparel.

In the movie, Uta is the most beloved singer in the world. Known for her otherworldly voice and for concealing her identity when performing, she plans to reveal herself for the first time at a live concert. The venue fills with fans and excited pirates, and the Navy watches closely. The Straw Hats, led by Luffy, come to enjoy Uta’s performance, the voice that has left the world waiting. However, the story begins with a shocking fact; she is Shanks' daughter!

Source: Crunchyroll

Debbie Diamond Sarto's picture

Debbie Diamond Sarto is news editor at Animation World Network.