#Japan #Tokyo #Bandai Namco #Earth Maiden Arjuna #Masashi Kawamori

A Look Back at 'Earth Maiden Arjuna'

In a celebration of its 25th anniversary, Bandai Namco Filmworks is set to release the special "Director's Edition" of the beloved anime series 'Earth Maiden Arjuna' on February 25, 2026. Originally aired from January to March 2001, this edition will provide fans with a comprehensive viewing experience of all 13 episodes on three Blu-ray discs, priced at ¥22,000 (tax included).

Special Features of the Director's Edition

The 'Director's Edition' is not just a simple re-release; it enhances the original series with new content and remastered visuals. Each of the 13 episodes has been reconfigured with additional scenes and dialogue that were not present in the original airing. The remastering includes an updated audio design featuring Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround sound and maintains a clear 16:9 aspect ratio.

One of the most exciting features of this release is the inclusion of a talk session between Masashi Kawamori, the series' original creator, director, and scriptwriter, and voice actress Asami Shimoda, who played the role of Juna Ariyoshi. This exclusive content provides fans with insight into the making of the series and its enduring impact on the anime industry. Also included are previously released video features, ensuring viewers have access to a wealth of supplementary material.

In addition, a special booklet will accompany the limited-edition box set, containing new interviews with Kawamori, along with artwork by character designer Takahiro Kishida. The double bookcase housing the Blu-rays features a striking new illustration, making it a perfect addition to any anime collection.

Storyline and Legacy

At the heart of 'Earth Maiden Arjuna' is Juna Ariyoshi, an ordinary high school girl whose simple wish to see the ocean propels her into an extraordinary mission that intertwines her fate with Earth's future. Following a life-threatening accident, Juna experiences an out-of-body journey that exposes her to the grim realities of modern civilization's impact on the planet. This tale of environmentalism, personal struggle, and mystical adventure delves into themes that resonate even today.

Faced with a mysterious boy named Chris and burdened with the responsibility to combat a dark entity known as Raja, Juna's story is one of sacrifice and hope. The anime's innovative narrative and visual storytelling have made it a landmark in the genre, prompting discussion and analysis among fans and critics alike.

Composed by the talented Yoko Kanno, the hauntingly beautiful score complements the show’s narrative depth. The series' unique approach to storytelling and its commitment to environmental themes challenged the conventions of anime at the time, paving the way for future generations to tackle similar issues through the medium.

Product Details

• - Product Name: Earth Maiden Arjuna Director's Edition Blu-ray Box (Limited Edition)
• - Price: ¥22,000 (tax included) / ¥20,000 (excluding tax)
• - Release Date: February 25, 2026
• - Total Runtime: 436 minutes (approximately 347 minutes of main content + 89 minutes of special features)
• - Audio/Visual Specs: Dolby TrueHD (5.1ch), Linear PCM (Stereo), AVC, BD50G x 3 discs, 16:9 <1080p High Definition>, with Japanese subtitles available.

Additional Information

To keep fans connected, the official website for 'Earth Maiden Arjuna' can be found here, and updates are available on their official social media platforms. This special release promises to be a cherished collectible for both new fans and long-time followers of this iconic series.

Get ready to immerse yourself once more in the enchanting world of Juna Ariyoshi and witness the awakening of a new generation familiar with the profound tales woven by the brilliant mind of Masashi Kawamori.