Netflix has confirmed the production of a film adaptation of the anime series The Ribbon Hero , inspired by Osamu Tezuka 's classic Princess Knight . The film will premiere globally in August 2026, produced by Twin Engine studio and directed by Yuuki Igarashi .
This project marks Igarashi's feature film debut. He has previously worked on Star Wars: Visions and the ending of Jujutsu Kaisen. The animation will be produced by OUTLINE studio, created by the director himself.
In addition to directing, the film features character designs by Kei Mochizuki . Mai Yoneyama collaborates on the visuals, while Issei Arakaki adapts the designs for animation. Art direction is by Cédric Hérole .
Princess Knight is a classic action and fantasy manga created by Osamu Tezuka and published in 1958 in the magazine Nakayoshi. The work has influenced generations and helped shape the narrative style of modern shoujo manga.
Synopsis
The story follows Princess Sapphire, who is born with two hearts, one male and one female. Since the kingdom only allows male heirs, she grows up as a prince. However, she must hide her identity to protect the throne.
Finally, the manga received a recent compiled edition from Kodansha USA in 2022. Now, The Ribbon Hero promises to introduce this story to a new generation, while maintaining classic elements from the original work.
