The Rose of Versailles is back with a new anime adaptation done by animation studio MAPPA. This anime is in the spotlight for bringing back the classic Shojo story with a new style. Announced for September 2022 through the release of key visuals and a promotional video (PV), the project caught the attention of fans who have been waiting for the continuation of the story of this legendary work.
Anime Background The Rose of Versailles
The Rose of Versailles, known by the Japanese title Versailles no Bara (ベルサイユのばら), is a manga by Riyoko Ikeda that was first published in Margaret Magazine between 1972 and 1973. The manga is set during the French Revolution and features historical figures with a touch of drama and romance. The success of the manga was later adapted into an anime series in 1979 by TMS Entertainment, which is still considered one of the most important Shojo works today.
In September 2022, MAPPA, the studio now better known for Shonen series like Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man, announced that it will be working on a new movie adaptation of The Rose of Versailles. Key visuals and a short PV were released, showcasing the main characters and the dramatic atmosphere that the anime will bring. The announcement was immediately met with enthusiasm by fans of classic anime and those who follow Riyoko Ikeda's work.
Trailer and Production Team
MAPPA releases first trailer The Rose of Versailles in July 2024, gives a brief overview of the visual style that will be presented. The trailer features elegant character designs, with the 18th century French setting visualized in detail. The animation is expected to combine the classic beauty of the 1979 anime with the modern touch of MAPPA.
Several well-known voice actors are involved in this anime movie:
- Miyuki Sawashiro as Oscar François de Jarjayes.
- Aya Hirano as Marie Antoinette.
- Toshiyuki Toyonaga as André Grandier.
- Kazuki Kato as Hans Axel von Fersen.
Behind the scenes, Ai Yoshimura acted as director, while Tomoko Konparu wrote the script. Character design was entrusted to Mariko Oka, who aimed to maintain the authenticity of the characters with fresh visual updates. Music was composed by Hiroyuki Sawano with KOHTA YAMAMOTO, providing an immersive atmosphere that is expected to reinforce the drama in the movie.
Story and Theme The Rose of Versailles
Anime The Rose of Versailles tells the story of Oscar François de Jarjayes, a noblewoman raised as a man to be the successor of her family's military command. He is assigned as personal bodyguard to Marie Antoinette, the Austrian princess who arrives in France as a future queen. Their relationship develops into a complicated friendship, while the social situation in France heats up in the run-up to the Revolution.
The story presents profound themes, including gender roles, social conflicts, and moral dilemmas. Oscar is torn between his loyalty to the royal family and sympathy for the people living in hardship. Meanwhile, Marie Antoinette struggles to adjust to the intriguing life of the French court. The drama becomes more intense as social changes threaten the stability of the kingdom.
Release Date
Anime The Rose of Versailles is scheduled to premiere in Japan on January 31, 2025. While there is no confirmation of a release date outside of Japan, an international release is expected to follow within a few months of its home country.
Legacy The Rose of Versailles
As a work that has inspired many mangaka and anime lovers, The Rose of Versailles had a huge influence in shaping the Shojo genre. The manga was not only popular in Japan, but also helped introduce the story of French history to readers around the world. Riyoko Ikeda, the manga's creator, even received the "Legion of Honor" award from the French government in 2009 as a token of appreciation for his contributions.
This anime adaptation by MAPPA is expected to revive interest in this classic work, introducing the story to a new generation who may not be familiar with the original manga or anime.
With the latest anime adaptation The Rose of VersaillesFans can expect to see a new interpretation that stays true to the original story, while presenting fresher visuals. MAPPA is expected to deliver a quality of animation and story that is in line with the expectations of fans old and new. Don't miss this important moment, because The Rose of Versailles ready to steal the show in the animation world in 2025. The Rose of Versailles is a work that is always relevant, and this adaptation is a reminder of how timeless and profound this story is.
Source: Official Website
© Riyoko Ikeda Production / The Rose of Versailles Production Committee
