Masaya Sano (Ae! group) and Toshiki Masuda are the double leads for the Japanese-dubbed version of the epic battle fantasy mythological masterpiece “Youzen”/“New Gods: Yang Jian”!
Long ago, the world was divided into the Celestial Realm and the Human Realm. However, after the devastating wars between the Yin and Zhou dynasties, the Celestial Realm’s power weakened. Like many other celestial beings, Erlang Shen, also known as Yang Jian, fell from grace and now makes a living as a bounty hunter in the Human Realm.
One day, Yang Jian has a chance encounter with his nephew, Shen Xiang. Shen Xiang is on a journey to find the Lotus Lamp, said to grant immense power, in hopes of rescuing his mother, who has been imprisoned on Mount Hua. But their paths are fraught with challenges and unforeseen twists…
Get ready for the highly anticipated Japanese-dubbed version of Youzen! Featuring stunning visuals, gripping action, and heartfelt storytelling, this record-breaking 3DCG fantasy hit from China is set to captivate audiences when it premieres in Japan in March 2025.
Youzen (Original Title: New Gods: Yang Jian) is a feature-length animation by Chinaโs renowned animation studio Light Chaser Animation, directed by Zhao Ji. Known for their works White Snake and New Gods: Nezha Reborn, the film reimagines Yang Jian, a character from the classic Chinese novel Fengshen Yanyi (The Investiture of the Gods), in an original story as part of the New Gods animated film series.
Upon its release in August 2022 in China, Youzen garnered widespread attention for its stunning, high-quality visuals and breathtaking action scenes, achieving a record-breaking box office revenue of over 10 billion yen in China.
The Japanese-dubbed version of Youzen is set to premiere in March 2025, co-produced and distributed by Bushiroad Move and Omoro Film.
The filmโs double protagonists bring a dynamic clash to the story: Masaya Sano (Ae! group) plays Youzen, a bounty hunter who has lost his “divine power,” while Toshiki Masuda voices Jinkou, a boy who has stolen the “divine power.”
The newly unveiled visual highlights the contrast between the two protagonists, showcasing their opposing roles.
Additionally, the first teaser PV offers a special preview of the film, featuring key scenes from the movie along with dialogue from the lead actors, Masaya and Toshiki.
Watch the teaser now on the official channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@officialchannel8085
Masaya Sano as Youzen
“I was incredibly surprised when I received this offer. I never imagined the day would come when Iโd get the chance to work as a voice actor, so I was truly delighted. When I first watched this film, I was struck by how stunningly beautiful the visuals were and how amazing the music sounded. While the story features elements of Chinese mythology that might not be familiar to everyone, it also has many accessible and relatable aspects, making it easy for anyone to enjoy.
Itโs an honor to voice Youzen, a character with so much depth and challenge to portray. The film is packed with themes of bondsโbetween Youzen and Jinkou, and also with his mentorโreminding us of the important connections we must cherish.”
Fans of Masaya have been eagerly waiting for a chance for Ae! group’s youngest member to shine with his vocals in a different way than on stage. Masaya once did a voice-over for one of their regular programs when he couldn’t attend the location shoot in person, and while his witty comments and narration were brilliant, what really made it special was the way he narrated.
His musical talent is highly regarded among his members, fellow agency mates, and fans alike, and now, his radiophonic voiceโsomething his fans and alike absolutely adore him forโgets a spot in the spotlight. It’s certainly a different stage and work than he’s usually used to, but this new opportunity presents an exciting challenge that he eagerly embraces. His unique ability to convey emotion through his voice not only captivates listeners but also draws them into a deeper connection with the way he presents his craft.
As he navigates this fresh terrain, he is determined to showcase the versatility of his musical talents and bring back something to the group, and concludes, “I would be so happy if people could experience this wonderful story in theaters.“
Toshiki Masuda as Jinkou
“Iโm deeply honored to be cast in such a remarkable film as it makes its way to Japan. This work is full of thrilling action and also beautifully depicts emotional development, human relationships, and bonds, creating a heartfelt story.
I believe that viewers of any age will walk away feeling inspired to value something important to them after watching this movie. If this film piques your interest, I highly encourage you to come and experience it in the theater.“
The official website and social media channels for Youzen now feature exclusive comment videos from Masaya Sano and Toshiki Masuda! Be sure to check them out!
ยฉLight Chaser Animation Studios ยฉYOZEN