Netflix is tackling Princess Knight’s subversive themes in an upcoming anime film
Netflix is adapting Osamu Tezuka’s influential manga Princess Knight into a new anime film titled The Ribbon Hero. The project represents a significant moment for the classic series, which originally serialized from 1953 to 1968 and is widely credited as a foundational work in shōjo manga—the genre primarily targeting young female readers.
Princess Knight played a crucial role in shaping shōjo manga and has profoundly influenced numerous celebrated works across decades, including Sailor Moon, The Rose of Versailles, and Revolutionary Girl Utena. Its legacy demonstrates the enduring impact of Tezuka’s groundbreaking creative approach to the medium.
The upcoming film will be directed by Yuki Igarashi, known for his work on Star Wars: Visions, with production handled by animation studio Outline. Netflix announced the project on April 23, positioning The Ribbon Hero as an adaptation that will explore the manga’s thematic elements for a modern audience.
The announcement reflects Netflix’s continued investment in anime content and classic manga adaptations. The film promises to bring a fresh creative perspective to Tezuka’s work while honoring its historical significance in manga and anime history. Specific details regarding plot, voice cast, and release timeline remain unavailable at this early announcement stage.