Funimation Unveils Co-Production of Original Anime Film "Sing a Bit of Harmony"
Funimation, a leader in anime distribution, has officially declared its partnership in the co-production of the upcoming original anime feature titled "Sing a Bit of Harmony." This film comes from the talents of celebrated director and writer Yasuhiro Yoshiura, who is well-known for his unique storytelling abilities and innovative animation style. "Sing a Bit of Harmony" promises to be a captivating addition to the anime film landscape, focusing on the adventures of a new transfer student whose enchanting song has the power to uplift her classmates.
The film is set to debut in Japan in 2021, with plans for a subsequent release in both the United States and Canada. This strategic timing aims to cater to the growing demand for quality anime films outside of Japan, particularly in North American markets.
A Visionary Behind the Project
Yasuhiro Yoshiura, the mastermind behind "Sing a Bit of Harmony," has a track record of success in the anime industry. His previous projects have garnered critical acclaim, including winning the prestigious Best Film Award at the Japan Media Arts Festival for "Patema Inverted: Beginning of the Day." Additionally, he secured the Best Anime Award at the Tokyo International Anime Fair for his work on "Time of Eve." Yoshiura’s ability to blend deep emotional narratives with compelling visuals is expected to shine in this new film.
Collaborators and Production Team
The production of "Sing a Bit of Harmony" boasts a talented team of animators and writers. Ichiro Ohkouchi, known for his work on "Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion" and "Lupin the Third Part 5," joins as a co-screenwriter. This collaboration promises a rich script filled with engaging dialogue and intricate plot development.
Character design is in the capable hands of Kanna Kii, who previously worked on "The Stranger by the Beach." Kii’s creative vision is sure to bring the characters to life, making them relatable and memorable for audiences. The animation production is handled by the esteemed J.C.STAFF, recognized for their work on popular series like "Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma" and "Is it Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?" This studio’s expertise in high-quality animation will contribute significantly to the film’s visual appeal.
Furthermore, Hidekazu Shimamura, who has experience with projects like "Trigun: Badlands Rumble" and "Code Geass: Akito the Exiled," serves as the animation director. His direction will play a crucial role in shaping the film’s aesthetic and movement, ensuring that the animation captures the essence of Yoshiura’s vision.
Funimation’s Expanding Anime Portfolio
The announcement about "Sing a Bit of Harmony" comes on the heels of a new collaboration between Funimation and VIZ Media, a prominent publisher and distributor in the anime industry. This partnership is designed to enhance the selection of popular and iconic anime titles available on the Funimation streaming platform. By integrating VIZ Media’s extensive catalog, Funimation aims to offer fans a richer viewing experience.
Among the titles currently accessible on Funimation’s platform are beloved series such as "Naruto" with its original 220 episodes, "Hunter x Hunter" comprising 75 episodes, and the classic film "Sailor Moon R: The Movie." Additionally, fans can enjoy "Berserk: The Golden Age Arc II – The Battle for Doldrey" and "Berserk: The Golden Age Arc III – The Advent." The addition of these titles marks a significant enhancement to Funimation’s offerings.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. In the coming months, viewers can anticipate the arrival of even more series, including "Terra Formars," "Terra Formars Revenge," "Coppelion," "Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet," and "Megalobox." This expansion is part of Funimation’s commitment to delivering a diverse array of anime content to its subscribers.
A Promising Future for Anime Enthusiasts
Colin Decker, CEO of the Funimation Global Group, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership with VIZ Media, stating, “We’re incredibly excited to partner with VIZ Media in bringing even more great anime to Funimation.” This collaboration signifies a notable step forward for anime distribution, as it allows fans access to a broader selection of high-quality anime titles.
With the ever-growing popularity of anime in North America and beyond, such partnerships are crucial for enhancing the viewing experience for fans. The addition of "Sing a Bit of Harmony" and other titles to Funimation’s platform will undoubtedly satisfy the cravings of anime lovers for fresh and engaging content.
Anticipation Builds for "Sing a Bit of Harmony"
As the release date of "Sing a Bit of Harmony" approaches, anticipation is building among anime fans. The film’s unique premise, combined with Yoshiura’s acclaimed direction and the talented production team, sets the stage for a memorable cinematic experience. The story’s central theme revolves around the power of music and connection, a universal message that resonates with audiences of all ages.
The film’s exploration of friendship, joy, and the transformative nature of song is expected to strike a chord with viewers. As the narrative unfolds, audiences will likely find themselves immersed in a world where music acts as a catalyst for happiness and unity. With its engaging plot and stunning animation, "Sing a Bit of Harmony" is poised to leave a lasting impact on the anime film landscape.
In conclusion, Funimation’s co-production of "Sing a Bit of Harmony" represents an exciting development in the anime industry. With a talented team and a compelling story at its core, the film is set to capture the hearts of audiences upon its release in Japan, followed by its arrival in the United States and Canada. As Funimation continues to expand its catalog with valuable partnerships and new titles, the future of anime looks bright for fans everywhere.
