Fans of the “Pretty Series” franchise can look forward to a new cinematic experience as Himitsu no AiPri officially announces its first anime film, titled Eiga Himitsu no AiPri: Mankai Buzzlume Live!. The movie is slated to premiere in Japan on March 13, 2026, extending the popular idol and dress-up rhythm game franchise onto the big screen.
Unveiling Eiga Himitsu no AiPri: Mankai Buzzlume Live!
The upcoming film, Eiga Himitsu no AiPri: Mankai Buzzlume Live!, will be a significant addition to the Himitsu no AiPri narrative. While specific plot details for the film are currently scarce, it has been revealed that the Ai Princesses will gather for a “Spring Float Race” at the invitation of a mysterious figure. A teaser video and a visual for the film have already been released, building anticipation among the fanbase.
Diving into the World of Himitsu no AiPri
Himitsu no AiPri (ひみつのアイプリ, Himitsu no AiPuri), meaning “Secret AiPri,” is the latest installment in Takara Tomy’s long-running “Pretty Series” multimedia franchise. It originated as a Japanese dress-up rhythm arcade game developed by syn Sophia and published by T-ARTS Company, launching in April 2024. The franchise combines elements of music, fashion, and magic, revolving around girls aiming to become top idols, known as “AiPris” (Idol Princesses).
The Anime Series Journey
The television anime series, co-produced by OLM and DongWoo A&E, first premiered on April 7, 2024. It follows the story of Himari Aozora, a shy first-year student at Paradise Private Academy who secretly admires AiPri idols. By chance, she makes her own AiPri debut in the mysterious AiPriVerse, a world where idols perform. Himari must keep her idol activities a secret, a challenge complicated by her childhood friend Mitsuki Hoshikawa also being a secret AiPri. The anime series has continued to expand, with a second season, subtitled “Ring Arc,” having premiered on April 6, 2025.
Production and Creative Team
The Himitsu no AiPri anime series is directed by Junichi Fujisaku and Kentaro Yamaguchi, with Gigaemon Ichikawa handling the series’ scripts. Character designs are by Yuki Nagano, based on original concepts by Yumi Nashimoto of syn Sophia, and music is composed by Izumi Mori. OLM and DongWoo A&E are the animation studios behind the series. While specific staff for the Mankai Buzzlume Live! film have not been fully detailed, it is expected to maintain the high production standards of the existing anime.
The Enduring Legacy of the Pretty Series
Himitsu no AiPri is the fifth main entry in the “Pretty Series,” a beloved franchise that began with Pretty Rhythm: Aurora Dream in 2011. Over the years, the series has spawned multiple anime television series, films, and video games, including PriPara, Idol Time PriPara, Kiratto Pri☆Chan, and Waccha PriMagi!. The franchise is known for its vibrant idol performances, intricate fashion, and themes of friendship and dreams, captivating audiences across generations. The upcoming film represents a continued evolution and expansion of this popular idol-themed universe.
