The highly anticipated film adaptation of the literary phenomenon reveals its first official trailer and visual poster, confirming that King & Prince will perform the theme song “Waltz for Lily,” a ballad that promises to capture the mystical essence and forbidden love between a demon and a human.
The world of Japanese fantasy is gearing up for one of its most ambitious releases of 2026. After months of anticipation, key details have been revealed about the live-action film Oni no Hanayome (The Demon’s Bride), based on the popular series of novels by Kureha. The film, which will hit Japanese screens on 27 March 2026, not only stands out for its stellar cast led by Ren Nagase (member of King & Prince) and Ai Yoshikawa, but also for a soundtrack that seeks to elevate the film’s emotional narrative.
The release of the first official trailer has left a deep impression on fans of the original material. The footage begins with a scene of high emotional impact: Yuzu (played by Ai Yoshikawa), a young woman who has lived under the shadow of family contempt and loneliness, finds herself in a moment of absolute despair on a bridge, on the verge of giving up on life. That’s when Reiya (Ren Nagase), the heir to the most powerful clan of demons (Ayakashi), appears.
With a magnetic gaze and under the moonlight, Reiya utters the words that change the course of history. This moment not only marks the beginning of their relationship, but also introduces the viewer to a world where humans and supernatural beings coexist under ancient laws. The trailer masterfully shows the evolution of both characters: from initial mistrust to the birth of an unbreakable bond that must face conspiracies in the spirit world and the cruelty of fate.
Along with the trailer, the film’s main poster has been released. It shows Reiya and Yuzu in the middle of a field of white spider lilies (Higanbana), flowers laden with symbolism in Japanese culture, often representing transition and reunion. The image captures a moment of dancing between the two protagonists, where the physical distance is minimal, but emotional tension and mutual respect fill the frame. This dance scene is shaping up to be one of the highlights of the production.
A phenomenon that jumps from the page to the big screen
“Oni no Hanayome” is not just any project. The original work began in 2020 as a series of novels and was later adapted into a manga by Togashi in the electronic magazine “noicomi“. It has been a resounding success, ranking first in Comic Seymour’s annual female comics ranking for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023), as well as winning the Grand User Award at the 2023 Electronic Comic Awards.
The premise captivates with its blend of classic romance and modern mythology: in this world, Ayakashi (supernatural beings with superior appearances and abilities) sometimes choose a human woman as their “one and only bride“. Once a demon finds his chosen one, he swears eternal loyalty and love to her. For Yuzu, who never knew her parents’ affection, being ‘claimed’ by Japan’s most powerful demon represents both salvation and a terrifying challenge.
“Waltz for Lily”: The musical soul of King & Prince
One of the most notable announcements is the participation of King & Prince, who will perform the theme song, titled “Waltz for Lily.” The song was composed specifically for the film and will be released as a single on 25 March, just two days before the film’s premiere.
According to details provided by them, “Waltz for Lily” is a sophisticated waltz that incorporates elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics. The waltz’s three-four time signature seeks to emulate the beating and dancing of the protagonists’ hearts.
Ren expressed his pride in this double project: “I am very happy that King & Prince can participate in the theme song of a work that is so important to me as the lead actor. I feel that the song has a depth that only the two of us can convey at this point in our careers. It is a theme that fits perfectly with the vision of “destined love”.“
For his part, Kaito commented on the creative process: “We worked with the images and atmosphere of the film in mind, seeking to achieve a beauty that was both elegant and ephemeral. I think we have achieved a romantic and moving love song.“
In addition to the theme song by King & Prince, the film will feature an insert song titled “Ray,” composed and performed by singer-songwriter Yu-ka. Known for her hit “Hoshizukiyo” (theme song for the drama Hoshi Furu Yoru ni/On a Starry Night), which surpassed 400 million views, Yu-ka lends her ethereal voice to underscore the film’s most intimate and cinematic moments.
The director and production team have emphasised that the film is not just a romantic drama, but also a visual spectacle. Ren invited viewers to immerse themselves in this universe: “The world of the Ayakashi is so beautiful and so well constructed that you forget about reality. I hope everyone will be carried away by the fate of Reiya and Yuzu while listening to “Waltz for Lily” in the end credits.“
With a combination of pop stars, an established literary fan base, and top-notch visual production, “Oni no Hanayome” is poised to be the cinematic event of the year in the romantic fantasy genre. Fans of King & Prince and lovers of supernatural love stories have already marked 25 and 27 March on their calendars to witness this union between the human and the divine.
King & Prince Comments
――On being chosen for the theme song
Ren: I’m absolutely delighted that King & Prince, who mean so much to me, can participate as the theme song performers for this important work of mine. It’s the same feeling I had for Kaito‘s project – it deepens my affection for the group. I’m truly grateful for this opportunity to showcase the breadth of our music to so many people, precisely because it’s us two at this moment.
Kaito: I was absolutely delighted that King & Prince could add colour to this work! We poured our hearts into the song, hoping it would heighten anticipation for the film and make the feelings after watching it even more wonderful.
――The sentiment behind the theme song
Ren: This song, themed around the “fated love” depicted in “Oni no Hanayome”, is imbued with feelings for someone precious. As it’s a piece with a Japanese flavour, I’m particularly fond of the well-balanced, refined arrangement that maintains a sense of connection while offering more than just that. I’m confident it perfectly complements the lyrics too! I believe the overlapping of our two voices lends a sense of transience, and I’d also like listeners to pay close attention to the waltz’s triple metre, as referenced in the title.
Kaito: While learning about the visuals and worldview of the work, I aimed to create something beautifully mature, elegant, and ephemeral. I believe we’ve crafted a romantic, poignant, and truly lovely waltz love song!
――For those about to watch the film
Ren: This might truly be what the world of supernatural beings feels like. I found myself naturally drawn into this world, thinking “it would be lovely if such a place existed”, and before I knew it, I was completely immersed. And above all, the visuals are stunning.
I believe the end credits song, “Waltz for Lily”, also added colour to the work. I hope you’ll immerse yourselves fully in the world of “Oni no Hanayome”, feeling your hearts flutter and ache at Reiya and Yuzu‘s “fated love”. Enjoy!
Kaito: I’m incredibly excited, and a little nervous too, about how “Waltz for Lily” will sound and be received through this film. As someone who’s genuinely looking forward to the film myself, I’d be delighted if you all shared that anticipation!
For fans overseas, you can get your single of “Waltz for Lily” through CD Japan!
Limited Edition A (DVD / Blu-ray), Limited Edition B (DVD / Blu-ray), Limited edition LIVE (DVD / Blu-ray), Regular edition, Bundled Set of 4 Editions (DVD / Blu-ray).
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