The upcoming anime adaptation of “SANDA,” produced by the renowned Science SARU studio, has unveiled its main trailer, along with a fresh visual, cast details, and global streaming information. This adaptation is based on a new manga created by Paru Itagaki, who is also the mastermind behind the popular series “BEASTARS.” The announcement of the anime coincided with the conclusion of the manga series, creating a buzz among fans eager for its release.
“SANDA” is set to make its debut in Japan on October 3, with worldwide streaming set to kick off exclusively on Prime Video the following day, October 4. The primary visual highlights the Daikoku Welfare Academy, the educational setting where the central character, Sanda, and his peers embark on their journey. In this striking image, the principal, Hifumi Oshibu, casts a formidable shadow in the background, while Santa Claus is depicted dramatically breaking through a glass barrier.
### Key Details About the “SANDA” Anime
The newly announced voice cast brings a range of talent to the project. Toshihiko Seki lends his voice to Hifumi Oshibu, the 92-year-old principal who has an unusual obsession with youth, often undergoing extensive plastic surgery. Hiroaki Hirata takes on the role of Saburo Yagiuda, a standout member of the St. Nick Pursuit Unit, which focuses on capturing Santa Claus. The anime’s opening theme, titled “Childlike Adults,” is performed by yama, while the closing theme, “Diary,” is by Soushi Sakiyama. Viewers can get a taste of the new voice cast alongside the opening song in the recently released trailer.
### Behind the Scenes of “SANDA”
The creative team behind “SANDA” includes several notable figures in the anime industry. The direction is in the capable hands of Shimoyama Tomohisa, while the series composition and script are crafted by Kimiko Ueno. Character designs are handled by Masamichi Ishiyama, and the music is composed by Tomoyuki Tanaka. This lineup promises a well-rounded production that aligns with the high standards expected from Science SARU.
“SANDA” is a Japanese manga series that has captured the attention of readers since its serialization began in Akita Shoten’s Weekly Shonen Champion magazine. The series ran for three years, from July 2021 until its conclusion in July 2024, resulting in a total of 14 volumes released by June 2024. The anime’s announcement on the same day as the manga’s ending has heightened anticipation among fans, who are eager to see how the story translates to animation. Titan Manga is set to start releasing the English version of the manga in September, broadening its reach to an international audience.
### The Storyline of “SANDA”
At its core, “SANDA” is described as an action-oriented narrative centered around Santa Claus. The tale unfolds in a futuristic Japan where the birth rate has significantly declined, leading to a societal shift that elevates children’s status above that of adults. In this world, Santa Claus has been sealed away due to a curse, leaving Christmas as a mere legend. The protagonist, Sanda Kazushige, discovers that he has a unique connection to the mythical figure of Santa, setting the stage for an exhilarating adventure.
Paru Itagaki’s previous work, “BEASTARS,” has left a lasting impact on the manga community. It began serialization in 2016 in the same magazine and concluded in 2020 after an impressive run of 196 chapters. The anime adaptation of “BEASTARS” has also garnered significant attention, with its final season releasing Part 1 in December and Part 2 scheduled for 2026. This history of successful adaptations adds to the excitement surrounding “SANDA.”
### Science SARU’s Animation Quality
The studio behind “SANDA,” Science SARU, is known for its visually stunning animations and unique storytelling techniques. In addition to “SANDA,” the studio is currently working on several projects, including the ongoing second season of “DAN DA DAN” and an anime adaptation of “A Witch’s Life in Mongol.” Furthermore, they are involved in the upcoming GHOST IN THE SHELL project, which is set to release next year. Science SARU’s reputation for quality animations gives fans confidence that “SANDA” will be a visually engaging experience.
### Anticipation and Fan Engagement
The excitement surrounding “SANDA” is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting its release. The combination of a compelling storyline, a talented voice cast, and the high production values associated with Science SARU makes this anime a highly anticipated addition to the fall season lineup. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions about the characters, the story, and what viewers can expect from this new adaptation.
The use of trailers and promotional content has also played a crucial role in generating interest. The combination of sound, visuals, and storytelling in the trailers provides a glimpse into the world of “SANDA,” enticing viewers to dive into the story once it premieres. The strategic launch of streaming on Prime Video further expands access, allowing fans globally to experience the series simultaneously.
### Conclusion
As the premiere date approaches, the “SANDA” anime adaptation is poised to make a significant impact within the anime community. With its engaging story, diverse voice cast, and the creative talents of Science SARU, it is set to attract both long-time fans of Paru Itagaki’s work and newcomers alike. The anticipation surrounding this series marks it as a noteworthy entry in the evolving landscape of anime adaptations. As viewers prepare for the official release, it will be exciting to see how Sanda Kazushige’s journey unfolds and how it resonates with audiences around the world.
