Star Wars: Visions Volume 3, the latest installment in the critically acclaimed animated anthology series, officially premiered on Disney+ on October 29, 2025. This new collection of nine animated shorts marks a significant return to the series’ roots, focusing exclusively on Japanese anime studios to deliver fresh and diverse takes on the beloved Star Wars galaxy.
Return to Japanese Anime Roots
Following Volume 2, which featured a global array of animation studios, Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 re-embraces the distinct artistic styles and narrative approaches of Japanese anime. This strategic decision by Lucasfilm aims to deepen the exploration of Star Wars mythology through the unique cultural lenses that defined the first volume. The new volume showcases shorts from a mix of returning and new Japanese animation powerhouses, including David Production, Kamikaze Douga (+ANIMA), Trigger, Kinema Citrus, Polygon Pictures, Project Studio Q, Production I.G, and Wit Studio. Each studio brings its signature aesthetic and storytelling prowess, ensuring a rich tapestry of visual and thematic experiences within the Star Wars universe.
Fan-Favorite Shorts Receive Sequels
A highlight of Volume 3 is the inclusion of direct sequels to three popular shorts from the inaugural Star Wars: Visions volume. This marks the first time the anthology has revisited existing narratives, offering fans a deeper dive into beloved characters and storylines.
“The Duel: Payback”
Kamikaze Douga, known for its striking black-and-white animation, returns with “The Duel: Payback.” This sequel continues the story of the Ronin, a mysterious figure first introduced in “The Duel.” The episode promises to delve further into the Ronin’s backstory and his conflict with a twisted Jedi known as the Grand Master.
“The Ninth Jedi: Child of Hope”
Production I.G. revisits the captivating world of “The Ninth Jedi” with “Child of Hope.” The original short was widely praised for its innovative take on lightsabers and the Jedi Order. The sequel continues this narrative, with many anticipating further revelations about the fate of the Jedi in this corner of the galaxy. A new limited series, Star Wars: Visions Presents: The Ninth Jedi, is also slated to premiere in 2026, indicating a significant expansion of this particular story.
“The Lost Ones” (The Village Bride Sequel)
Kinema Citrus brings a continuation of “The Village Bride” with “The Lost Ones.” This short follows F, the incognito Jedi protagonist, as she confronts her past while assisting refugees fleeing a natural disaster. The narrative explores themes of memory and rebirth within the Force.
New Visions, Diverse Narratives
Beyond the sequels, Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 introduces several entirely new stories that explore a wide range of themes and character archetypes. These include:
- “Yuko’s Treasure” (Kinema Citrus Co.): An adventurous tale set on Tatooine, following a sheltered orphan and a street-rat kid on a quest for lost treasure.
- “The Smuggler” (Trigger): A fast-paced narrative about a rogue smuggler hired to transport a young prince escaping the Empire, leading to unexpected consequences.
- “The Bounty Hunters” (Wit Studio): Features a tough and sarcastic bounty hunter and her split-personality droid taking on a job for a shady industrialist.
- “The Song of Four Wings” (Project Studio Q): Follows a princess-turned-rebel in a dramatic new adventure.
- “The Bird of Paradise” (Polygon Pictures): An intimate story of a Jedi padawan blinded in a fight and lost in a cave.
- “BLACK” (David Production): An experimental and haunting short that delves into the psyche of an Imperial stormtrooper amidst the chaos of the Death Star.
Each new short pushes the boundaries of Star Wars storytelling, offering unique perspectives outside the Skywalker Saga’s traditional conflicts.
Star-Studded Voice Cast
Volume 3 features an impressive lineup of voice talent, adding another layer of depth to the anthology. Notable actors lending their voices include Simu Liu, Anna Sawai, Brian Tee, Freddie Highmore, Stephanie Hsu, and George Takei. These performances contribute to the rich characterizations and emotional resonance of each short.
The Future of Visions: A Spin-off Series on the Horizon
The continuous evolution of Star Wars: Visions highlights Lucasfilm’s commitment to exploring diverse animation styles and narratives. With the announcement of Star Wars: Visions Presents: The Ninth Jedi, a dedicated spin-off series expected in 2026, the future of the Visions initiative appears set for even broader expansions. This new series indicates a willingness to move beyond the anthology format for particularly compelling stories, offering creators a larger canvas to develop their unique visions.
Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 is now streaming exclusively on Disney+, offering fans nine new opportunities to experience a galaxy far, far away through fresh and imaginative eyes.
