A stage greeting for the revival screening of "Aikatsu Stars! The Movie -Anniversary Stars-," a theatrical anime film from the popular "Aikatsu!" series of anime and games, was held on July 4th at Shinjuku Wald 9 (Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo). Miyu Tomita, who plays Yume Nijino, and Ayaka Asai, who plays Laura Sakuraba, appeared at the event. As part of the "Aikatsu Stars!" 10th anniversary project, the film, which was released in August 2016, was screened again. In front of the fans gathered at the theater, Tomita said, "There are people who have been supporting us since back then, and also people who are experiencing it for the first time, so it feels fresh even though 10 years have passed!" Asai added, "I also had the opportunity to do a stage greeting at Wald 9 10 years ago, so it's very moving for me."
Asai recalled the time of recording the movie version, saying, "It reminded me of Tomita-chan back then. She was in her teens then, and she would say things like, 'I want to grow up quickly,' and 'I want to get my nails done,' which I thought was so dreamy (laughs)." Tomita smiled and replied, "I do (get my nails done) now! Back then, it wasn't allowed because of school rules."
Tomita said thoughtfully, "We got the offer for the movie shortly after the TV series started. We did the voice recording over two days, it was like a training camp. The fight scene was shocking. The seniors gave us advice, and the two of them got along, so it was a turning point and very memorable. Looking back, I thought Koharu and Ako were really cute."
Asai recalled, "We did many retakes on the reconciliation scene and were very particular about it. In the end, I was told to 'forget everything and just do what you want,' and that was approved. I was impressed by how I was able to act honestly in the end." Tomita nodded in agreement, saying, "It was a visual highlight, and I think it was a kind of direction that could only be done in a theater."
Tomita, being a newcomer at the time, said, "Looking back now, I realize that I had very little experience with voice acting for both the TV series and the movie, so for better or worse, I probably wasn't thinking too much. There was a freshness to it, and if I did it now, I wouldn't be able to produce the same result. Perhaps that freshness was a good thing," indicating that she threw herself into playing Yume.
When the topic of "Yume and Laura's relationship" came up, Tomita said, "They are best friends, teammates, and rivals. Together they are unstoppable. But they can also shine individually. It's a great relationship." Asai added, "It's a one-of-a-kind relationship, and they are special to each other. At first they were rivals, but as the story progressed, there were feelings that only someone who was by her side could understand. I can do my best because Yume is there."
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It has also been announced that a new theatrical anime film, "Aikatsu Stars! ~Progress of the Stars~," is in production and will be released in early spring 2027. After approximately 10 years, the original staff, including director Teruo Sato, screenwriter Yuko Kakihara, and character designer Yukiko Aikei, will be reuniting.
Tomita said, "I'm honestly very happy. Although 10 years have passed, I remember the voice recording sessions from back then. I'm so happy and excited to be gathering in the same studio again after 10 years and returning to the world of 'Aikatsu Stars!'" Asai added, "I think it will feel like a class reunion when various cast members gather in the studio to do the voice recordings. I'm so excited, I can't stop feeling thrilled."
Details about the new movie have not yet been announced, but Tomita said, "Just the thought of a scene where everyone gathers for a tea party will bring tears to my eyes. Just seeing them smiling like they did back then will make me happy. I also want to see a live performance scene and some new songs!"
Finally, Asai said, "I'm so happy that so many people still love it after 10 years. This revival and new work are all thanks to everyone's support. I hope to have a wonderful voice recording session. I would be happy if you could continue to support us."
Tomita said, "Even after 10 years, I'm still savoring the joy of being able to introduce myself as 'Miyu Tomita, who played Yume Nijino' in front of everyone. I'm filled with nothing but excitement. After we finished recording the voiceovers for the TV series, we all said, 'We're ready to be ready anytime.' I hope you all will also be waiting with the same excitement! Let's get hyped!"
The "Aikatsu!" series is a project that began in October 2012, depicting girls striving to become top idols through idol activities (Aikatsu!). To date, it has included "Aikatsu!", "Aikatsu Stars!", "Aikatsu Friends!", "Aikatsu on Parade!", and "Aikatsu Planet!". The "Aikatsu Stars!" anime aired from April 2016 to March 2018.
