Sentai Filmworks is bringing Leiji Matsumoto’s classic Queen Millennia anime series to Blu-ray. This complete collection release packages all 42 episodes of the television adaptation, offering fans a chance to revisit this influential space opera in high quality. Scheduled for release on September 2, 2025, this collection is a significant event for anime enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Story of Queen Millennia
Queen Millennia (Japanese: 新竹取物語 1000年女王, Shin Taketori Monogatari: Sennen Joō, lit. ‘The New Tale of the Bamboo Cutter: Millennium Queen’) is a manga series written and illustrated by the legendary Leiji Matsumoto. It was serialized from January 28, 1980, through May 11, 1983, in both the Sankei Shimbun and Nishinippon Sports newspapers.
Premise
The story is set in 1999, a time when Earth faces imminent destruction. Professor Amamori, an astronomer, discovers a tenth planet in the solar system, which he names La-Metal. He soon realizes that La-Metal has an eccentric orbit and is on a collision course with Earth, predicting impact on September 9, 1999, at 9:09:09 JST.
Characters
- Yukino Yayoi/Queen Millennia/La Andromeda Promethium II: Secretly sent from La-Metal to gather humans as slaves, Yayoi, known to Earthlings as Yukino Yayoi, is the current Millennial Queen. However, her interactions with humans, especially Hajime, lead her to question her mission.
- Hajime Amamori: Professor Amamori’s nephew, orphaned after his parents’ death. He develops a keen interest in space and feels infatuated with Yayoi.
- Professor Amamori: An astronomer who discovers La-Metal and its impending collision with Earth.
- Other Characters: The series features a variety of supporting characters, including Yayoi’s parents, Hajime’s classmates, and various operatives from La-Metal.
Plot Development
As Earth faces its potential doom, Yayoi grapples with her identity and loyalties. Originally tasked with enslaving humans for La-Metal, she begins to sympathize with them, especially through her bond with Hajime. The series explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the conflict between duty and personal feelings.
Production Details
Queen Millennia was adapted into a 42-episode anime television series by Toei Dōga (now Toei Animation) and broadcast on the Fuji TV network from April 16, 1981, through March 25, 1982. An anime film was released on March 13, 1982, shortly before the TV series concluded.
- Director: Nobutaka Nishizawa
- Writers: Keisuke Fujikawa, Shigemitsu Taguchi, Hiroyasu Yamaura, Toyohiro Andō
- Music: Ryudo Uzaki, Tomoyuki Asakawa
- Studio: Toei Dōga
Music
The opening theme song, “Cosmos Dream” (コスモス・ドリーム, Kosumosu Dorīmu), was sung by Masaki Takanashi, while the ending theme song, “Excellent Legend” (まほろば伝説, Mahoroba Densetsu), was performed by Manami Ishikawa. Both songs had lyrics by Yoko Aki, were composed by Ryudo Uzaki, and were arranged by Motoki Funayama.
Release Information
Sentai Filmworks’ Blu-ray release includes:
- All 42 episodes of the original TV anime series
- Japanese language with English subtitles
- Runtime: 1050 minutes
- Rating: TV-14
- Aspect ratio: 4:3
- Special features: Disc Credits
- Region: A
- Number of discs: 5
- UPC: 816726023670
The Blu-ray set is currently available for pre-order for $64.99 (retail price $99.98) and is scheduled to ship on September 2, 2025.
Historical Context and Significance
Queen Millennia holds a significant place in anime history. It is part of Leiji Matsumoto’s interconnected universe, which includes other famous works like Space Battleship Yamato, Galaxy Express 999, and Space Pirate Captain Harlock.
Leiji Matsumoto’s World
Matsumoto’s works often feature recurring themes, similar character designs, and interconnected storylines. Queen Millennia shares visual and thematic elements with Galaxy Express 999, with the character Yayoi resembling Maetel from the latter series.
Harmony Gold Adaptation
In the 1980s, Harmony Gold combined Queen Millennia with Space Pirate Captain Harlock to create Captain Harlock and the Queen of a Thousand Years. This adaptation, comprising 65 episodes, aired in the United States from 1985 to 1986. However, this fusion was met with mixed reactions, and Queen Millennia remained relatively obscure in the West.
Reception and Legacy
Queen Millennia received mixed reviews over the years. Some appreciate its depth and emotional resonance, while others find its pacing slow and its plot convoluted.
Criticisms
- Pacing: Reviewers have noted that the series can be slow-paced, with long stretches between major plot developments.
- Complexity: The intricate backstory and numerous characters can make the series challenging for first-time viewers.
Praises
- Emotional Depth: The characters are well-developed, and their struggles feel genuine.
- Visuals: Despite its age, the animation has aged gracefully and has a unique charm.
- Themes: The series explores profound themes of love, sacrifice, and the clash between civilizations.
Final Thoughts
Sentai Filmworks’ release of Queen Millennia on Blu-ray is a welcome event for anime fans. It offers a chance to experience this classic series in high quality and appreciate Leiji Matsumoto’s unique vision. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this Blu-ray collection is a valuable addition to any anime library. With its blend of science fiction, mythology, and human drama, Queen Millennia remains a thought-provoking and visually captivating work.
