Anime Expo 2023 in LA: ZAN Movie Revealed, A Match Made in Otaku Heaven

Hold on to your katanas, anime lovers, because ZAN is about to rock your world! The long-awaited Japan-U.S. joint production made its grand entrance on July 6, 2023, at the Anime Expo in the heart of Los Angeles. And let me tell you; it was a spectacle fit for the masters of Japanese pop culture.

Now, if you’ve been living under a rock and have no idea what the Anime Expo is, let me enlighten you. It’s the largest anime convention in North America, a gathering of fanatics and industry insiders alike, all coming together to celebrate the wonder and whimsy of this cherished art form. It’s basically the Mecca for all otakus out there, and ZAN just joined the ranks of its illustrious showcases.

The Anime Expo opening ceremony was ablaze with excitement as Yoshitaka Amano, the legendary painter known for his striking character illustrations in the “Final Fantasy” series, took center stage. Amano, who has donned the hat of the original writer and supervisor, kicked off the proceedings for this ambitious project. And boy, is it ambitious!

According to Yoshitaka Amano, “ZAN started over twenty years ago, in 1999, with the simple premise of “hero,” and it was meant to involve art and video and different types of mediums. Over those twenty-some years, it’s grown and developed — matured, you could say — and evolved into something a bit different.”

“For me, it’s basically a dream come true. I never imagined things would progress this far in this short amount of time, but here we are. And to be able to announce that in America, of all places, is a very special thing as well”, Amano added.

ZAN, the brainchild of JAYMEN TOKYO and N LITE MEDIA, is set to bring together the best of both Japanese and American talents. With Japanese directors, screenwriters, and creators at the helm, the animation production promises to be a feast for the eyes. However, we’ll have to practice our patience a little longer since the release date is scheduled somewhere beyond the horizon of 2026. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right?

Let’s talk about Amano’s involvement, shall we? This artistic maestro has conjured up a fantastical world of action and fantasy for ZAN. With over 300 breathtaking pieces of art, he has woven a tapestry of wonder that has captivated fans since its initial announcement in 2010 as “DEVA ZAN.” And let’s not forget the art book released by DARK HORSE COMICS in 2013, solidifying Amano’s reputation as a visual virtuoso.

But wait, there’s more! Surprise guest alert! Picture this: the opening ceremony panel, buzzing with anticipation, and then BAM! In walks YOSHIKI, the famous pop singer and composer from Japan, formerly of the iconic X-Japan. The crowd went wild as it was revealed that Amano had graced YOSHIKI’s latest music album cover with the exquisite art of ZAN. Talk about a match made in Otaku heaven!

Now, my dear anime aficionados, here’s a little treat for you. In case you haven’t had your fill of ZAN’s awesomeness, you can dive into the world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Head over to Trophee and behold the marvels that await you. These NFTs will undoubtedly make your inner collector swoon with delight.

And if you’re one of those enthusiasts craving a taste of the ZAN manga series, fear not! Trophee has got you covered with their manga reader. It’s a portal to the mystical land where ZAN unfolds its epic saga. So, prepare yourself to be transported into a realm of adventure, excitement, and, let’s be honest, probably a fair amount of fan service too.

So, dear readers, mark your calendars, keep your eyes peeled, and brace yourselves for the imminent arrival of ZAN! It’s bound to be a wild ride through a world painted by the talented brush of Yoshitaka Amano. And remember, in the words of our favorite anime characters, “Believe it!”

Also published here.