The highly anticipated anime film Labyrinth (titled Meikyu no Shiori in Japan) has dropped its official trailer, stirring major excitement across the anime community. The film, helmed by legendary director Shoji Kawamori—best known for Macross and Aquarion—is scheduled for a theatrical release in Japan on January 1, 2026, following its Asian premiere at the Tokyo International Film Festival later this October.
A Mesmerizing Trailer With a Powerful Soundtrack
The newly released trailer introduces viewers to a haunting yet captivating world that blends digital fantasy with emotional realism. The film’s theme song, “Sailor, Sail On,” is performed by the popular Japanese girl group ATARASHII GAKKO!, whose music perfectly complements the story’s surreal tone.
Interestingly, one of the group’s members, SUZUKA, also takes on a dual voice role in the movie—voicing both the protagonist, Shiori Maezawa, and her mysterious alter ego SHIORI@REVOLUTION, a version of herself that manifests from the smartphone world into reality. The combination of SUZUKA’s performance and the group’s signature energy promises to make the film’s soundtrack a standout feature.
Star-Studded Voice Cast and Creative Team
Labyrinth features an impressive voice cast lineup, including industry veterans such as Show Hayami (as Shiori’s father Keizo Maezawa), Maaya Sakamoto (as her mother Yoriko Maezawa), and Tomokazu Sugita (as her homeroom teacher Tosaka).
Behind the scenes, the project brings together some of anime’s finest creative minds. Character designs are crafted by Risa Ebata (Macross Frontier), while the screenplay is written by Taichi Hashimoto, known for his work on Revisions. The animation is produced by SANZIGEN, the studio behind BanG Dream!, ensuring a visually rich and technically sophisticated experience.
A Mystery Between Worlds
The story follows Shiori Maezawa, an ordinary high school girl whose life takes a surreal turn when her smartphone suddenly breaks. She finds herself mysteriously transported into an empty version of Yokohama—an eerie alternate reality where she appears to be completely alone. Soon, she discovers strange photos of herself on social media that she never remembers taking, forcing her to question who is posting them and why.
As Shiori navigates this strange maze of digital reflections and emotional uncertainty, she must uncover the truth about her existence and the identity of the mysterious “other Shiori.” The film promises a gripping exploration of technology, identity, and human connection—delivered through Kawamori’s signature blend of science fiction and emotional storytelling.
A New Era for Sci-Fi Anime Films
With its striking visuals, compelling concept, and a soundtrack by one of Japan’s most dynamic music groups, Labyrinth is poised to be one of 2026’s standout anime releases. Its mix of digital mystery, philosophical undertones, and cinematic direction could make it a modern classic for fans of psychological and sci-fi anime.
Labyrinth will make its first public appearance during the Tokyo International Film Festival on October 28 and 30, before opening in Japanese theaters nationwide on New Year’s Day 2026.
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