The upcoming anime film Fushigi no Kuni de Alice to -Dive in Wonderland- (With Alice in Wonderland -Dive in Wonderland-) has revealed more about its cast and theme song in a newly released trailer. The film, which is described as Japan’s first anime film adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s classic novel Alice in Wonderland, is set to premiere in Japan on August 29, 2025.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Tale
Dive in Wonderland tells the story of Rise, a modern-day university student struggling to find her place in the world. One day, she discovers an invitation left behind by her late grandmother, which leads her to a mysterious “Wonderland”. There, she encounters a young Alice, and together they embark on a surreal adventure filled with bizarre characters and unexpected challenges.
The film is directed by Toshiya Shinohara (Black Butler, A Lull in the Sea, The Aquatope on White Sand) and features a screenplay by Yūko Kakihara (Blue Box, Urusei Yatsura 2022, The Aquatope on White Sand). The animation is being handled by P.A. Works, known for their high-quality and visually stunning productions.
Stellar Voice Cast Announced
In addition to the previously announced lead roles, the trailer reveals a host of talented voice actors who will bring the iconic characters of Wonderland to life. The cast includes:
- Nanoka Hara as Rise
- Maika Pugh as Alice
- Mayu Matsuoka as The Queen of Hearts
- Kōji Yamamoto as The Mad Hatter
- Norito Yashima as The March Hare
- Ryūichi Kosugi as Humpty Dumpty
- Kappei Yamaguchi as The White Rabbit
- Toshiyuki Morikawa as The Cheshire Cat
- Takahiro Yamamoto as The Caterpillar
- Shōtarō Mamiya as Akira Urai, a butler who invites Rise to Wonderland
- Keiko Toda as Ayako Azumino, Rise’s grandmother
SEKAI NO OWARI to Perform Theme Song
Adding to the film’s allure, the popular Japanese band SEKAI NO OWARI will be performing the theme song, titled “Zukan” (図鑑, meaning “Guidebook” or “Illustrated Book”). The band is known for their unique sound and imaginative lyrics, which perfectly complement the whimsical and thought-provoking nature of Alice in Wonderland.
Saori, a member of SEKAI NO OWARI, shared her thoughts on the theme song:
“The protagonist of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ is a girl who spends her days struggling to get things right. As I thought about what kind of words would be suitable to depict her fantastical journey of facing difficulties, many images of ‘creatures that have a hard time just living because their environment doesn’t suit them’ came to mind. That’s why I titled the song ‘Zukan’ and wrote the lyrics. I hope that the song will make the days of worrying and struggling about why I can’t do things a little more endearing.”
The trailer offers a sneak peek of “Zukan,” showcasing the song’s enchanting melody and poignant lyrics.
A Journey Through Wonderland
The synopsis of the film reads:
“I’m supposed to be reading the atmosphere to not fail and I’m doing what everyone else is doing, so why can’t I get it right――?” Rise Azumino is a university student who has lost in her life. One day, guided by an invitation letter left behind by her late grandmother, she enters “Wonderland”. She meets a girl named Alice there and they travel together. White Rabbit, Caterpillar, Queen of Hearts, Card Soldiers, Mad Hatter, March Hare, Humpty Dumpty, Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee who are twins, Cheshire Cat and… The residents of Wonderland appear before Rise one after another! And the crazy commotion that ensues! What kind of future will Rise choose in this crazy adventure with Alice?”
Dive in Wonderland promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adaptation of Alice in Wonderland, exploring themes of identity, self-discovery, and the courage to embrace one’s individuality. With its talented cast, imaginative animation, and captivating theme song, this film is sure to delight audiences of all ages.
Production Details
Here’s a breakdown of the key staff and production details:
- Director: Toshiya Shinohara
- Screenplay: Yūko Kakihara
- Original Character Design: Tomomi Takada, Jun Suzuki, Hiranko Konohana
- Character Design: Kousuke Kawazura, Mio Fujishima
- Animation Directors: Kanami Sekiguchi, Kousuke Kawazura
- Concept Design: Kiyoshi Arai
- Art Director: Kentarō Akiyama
- Compositing Director of Photography: Tomo Namiki
- Color Key Artist: Miho Tanaka
- 3D Director: Haruki Suzuki
- Editing: Ayumi Takahashi
- Sound Director: Haru Yamada
- Sound Effects: Naoto Yamatani
- Sound Production: Sound Team Don Juan
- Music: kotringo
- Animation Production: P.A. Works
- Production Coordinators: Shochiku, TBS
Fushigi no Kuni de Alice to -Dive in Wonderland- is poised to be a major cinematic event in 2025, offering a fresh and exciting take on a beloved classic. Be sure to check out the trailer and mark your calendars for its release on August 29, 2025.