A new contender has entered the anime arena with a powerful and provocative reveal. Killtube, a futuristic Edo punk anime film, made a dramatic debut during Anime Expo 2025. The panel, hosted on July 5, featured the premiere of its development trailer along with a striking key visual and a full voice cast announcement. Backed by a team of rising and established talents including CHOCOLATE Inc., Studio Dotou, VFX house Kassen, and Pony Canyon, the project already stands out for its unique creative ambition and daring visual identity.
Set in a dystopian 2026, Killtube envisions a world where societal outcasts are forced to fight to the death for views and survival. These deadly duels are broadcast live across the world, blending brutal combat with viral entertainment. The film’s world building is grounded in a twisted evolution of internet culture where fame, blood, and digital spectatorship collide. The anime is directed by newcomer Kazuaki Kuribayashi, marking his bold entry into the anime filmmaking scene.
The film’s concept was first announced in April 2024 and has since gathered serious momentum. With a production budget of one billion yen, it is among the most ambitious indie anime projects in recent years. Its trailers have already amassed more than five million views online, generating international interest from fans eager to see how the film pushes the boundaries of storytelling and visual design. The production process has been dubbed the “108 Experiments,” suggesting a creative framework that leans heavily on innovation, iteration, and unpredictability. These experimental phases are expected to continue through 2026, leading up to the final release.
The newly revealed cast features some of the industry’s top voice talents. Yui Tsukada plays Musashi, bringing experience from projects like Uma Musume Pretty Derby and Dose, Koishite Shimaunda. Kengo Kawanishi voices Kikuchiyo, known for performances as Muichiro in Demon Slayer and Mikazuki in Iron Blooded Orphans. Ayane Sakura lends her voice to the enigmatic Leo “Leonardo,” adding another major role to her resume alongside her performances as Ochaco in My Hero Academia and Gabi in Attack on Titan.
To complement the announcement, an official Killtube merchandise site has also launched. The online store currently offers three exclusive items that push the boundaries of fan interaction. These include a limited edition poster that places the buyer into the anime’s world, an opportunity to have your name featured in the credits, and an actual appearance within the film’s main story itself. Part of the sales proceeds will go directly to the production of the film, making this a rare opportunity for fans to directly support and participate in the creation of a major anime release.
CHOCOLATE Inc. confirmed that the merchandise portal will be updated regularly, offering new ways for viewers to connect with the project and become part of the story. With this level of interactivity, Killtube is not just an anime film. It is a cross media experience that merges storytelling with fan culture in deeply personal ways.
As anticipation builds and new updates continue to drop, Killtube is shaping up to be one of the boldest anime events of the coming year. With its blend of gritty narrative, cutting edge design, and a fearless creative team, this is one story that refuses to follow the rules.
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