Naniwa Danshi's Theme Song for Nintama Rantaro Movie Revealed: Full Trailer and Key Visual Unveiled
The full trailer and key visual for Nintama Rantaro the Movie: The Strongest Strategist of the Dokutake Ninja (in theaters on December 20), featuring the theme song “Arigato Kokoro Kara” performed by the seven-member group Naniwa Danshi, have been unveiled.
The movie is based on the popular anime Nintama Rantaro, derived from Sōbē Amako’s manga Rakudai Ninja Rantaro. Loved by audiences for decades, Nintama Rantaro returns to the big screen with a storyline adapted from the 2013 novel Rakudai Ninja Rantaro: The Strongest Strategist of the Dokutake Ninja, a highly anticipated film adaptation that fans have long awaited.
Animation production is handled by Ajia-do, the same studio behind the TV series. The main cast returns, including Minami Takayama (Rantaro), Mayumi Tanaka (Kirimaru), Teiyū Ichiryūsai (Shinbei), and Toshihiko Seki (Doi-sensei), promising to bring back the familiar voices. However, the plot of this film takes a more serious tone than usual. Alongside the theme song, Naniwa Danshi also performs the movie’s iconic theme "Yūki 100%". Two of its members, Ryūsei Ōnishi and Jōichirō Fujiwara, make guest appearances as voice actors.
In the newly released trailer, the true identity of the mysterious figure Tenki is revealed. The trailer begins with the sixth-year students of Ninjutsu Academy being attacked by the Dokutake Ninja Army’s strategist, Tenki. Despite their best efforts, the six students stand no chance against Tenki, who excels both in strategy and combat. During the battle, Tenki's true identity is revealed to be none other than Doi-sensei, shocking everyone.
The trailer is emotionally charged, as Kirimaru’s words to Doi-sensei resonate deeply, portraying the strong bond the students share with their teacher, who has always been by their side. This touching preview highlights the students’ determination to rescue Doi-sensei.
The new theme song, "Arigato Kokoro Kara," written by Gorō Matsui and composed by Kōji Makaino, is a heartfelt track with gentle melodies, expressing gratitude and friendship. It beautifully aligns with the film’s depiction of the bond between Doi-sensei and the students, adding an emotional layer to the story.
The main visual, also released, shows the students of Ninjutsu Academy running desperately, hands outstretched, determined to rescue Doi-sensei. Kirimaru’s strong gaze as he clutches Doi-sensei's attendance book stands out. The sword held by the cold-eyed Tenki reflects a sinister moon, while Hieta Happōsai watches with an evil grin. This visual raises anticipation for the epic battles and bonds that will unfold in the most intense Nintama Rantaro movie yet.
Additionally, new character visuals drawn by Emiko Niiyama, featuring the Dokutake Ninja Army leader Hieta Happōsai, Tasogaredoki Ninja Corps captain Zatto Konnamon, and his subordinate Morozumi Sonnamon, have also been revealed, alongside comments from the cast.
Cast Comments: ▼ Yasuhiro Mamiya (Hieta Happōsai)
"Ha ha ha! It’s me, Hieta Happōsai, leader of the Dokutake Ninja Army! After 13 years, I’m the star of this new movie! Singing, dancing, fighting—I do it all in this movie! Wait, what? You say the key player in this story is Doi-sensei, and it’s full of action and serious scenes? Nonsense! Why are you telling the truth? Anyway, I hope you come to see Nintama Rantaro the Movie: The Strongest Strategist of the Dokutake Ninja, releasing on December 20! This was Yasuhiro Mamiya as Hieta Happōsai."
▼ Shōtarō Morikubo (Zatto Konnamon)
"The usually lively world of Nintama is suddenly filled with a serious atmosphere! People of all ages are sure to enjoy this film! My character, Zatto Konnamon, does some great work in this movie, and I’ve grown to like him even more through this episode! Please watch it!"
Tsubasa Yonaga (Morozumi Sonnamon)
"It’s been a long time since we’ve had a Nintama Rantaro movie! I’ve been waiting for this!! I’m truly excited to be a part of this film as Morozumi Sonnamon! This movie has a different feel from the usual Nintama atmosphere, offering a story that showcases bonds and connections. Plus, the action scenes are so cool! The characters move around with such intensity! Please come to the theater as many times as you can! And bring a handkerchief—it’s a must!"
Source : ORICON NEWS