3rd Mononoke Film Releases First Trailer, Reveals New Cast Members, Debuts May 29
The third installment of the Mononoke franchise’s film series, titled Gekijōban Mononoke Dai-San-Shō: Hebigami (Mononoke the Movie: Chapter 3: Snake God), has released its first trailer, announcing a premiere date of May 29, 2026, and introducing a new cast member, Miyuki Sawashiro. The trailer, unveiled by animation studio Twin Engine, along with the film’s teaser visual, offers a glimpse into the upcoming movie.
Aside from Miyuki Sawashiro, the film features a host of other talented actors lending their voices to new characters not previously seen in the first two films. Fumi Hirano portrays Tokiwai, who serves as Sachiko’s wet nurse and aide, while Mariko Honda brings Kawa, Tokiwai’s subordinate and Sachiko’s maid, to life.
The storyline of the third film follows a series of events after two significant occurrences involving Mononoke and a battle between a medicine seller and a Karakasa umbrella. Peace seemed to have finally settled in the inner palace after these incidents, but a lingering ominous presence has the medicine seller on high alert. Empress Sachiko, after giving birth to a long-awaited baby boy, tragically passes away, leaving behind questions and mysteries that unfold throughout the movie.
The narrative delves deeper into the inner workings of the Ooku and uncovers a sinister plot that threatens the very core of its existence. As Empress Sachiko’s struggle and sacrifice come to light, the film explores themes of regret, resentment, and the unfolding of dark secrets buried 150 years ago. The medicine seller must confront the Snake God, a menacing Mononoke that embodies the Ooku’s troubled history, and uncover its true nature before it consumes all in its path.
Returning staff members from the second film, under the directorial helm of Kenji Nakamura and Tomoaki Koshida, ensure a seamless continuation of the Mononoke story. The production boasts a stellar lineup of talents, including Yasumi Atarashi for screenplay, Kitsuneko Nagata for character design, and Yūichi Takahashi as the Animation Character Design and Chief Animation Director.
Hiroshi Kamiya, reprising his role as the Medicine Seller, leads the ensemble cast, supported by returning actors such as Atsumi Tanezaki, Miyu Irino, Kenjirō Tsuda, Yoshiko Sakakibara, Tomoyo Kurosawa, Yōko Hikasa, and Haruka Tomatsu. The film trilogy’s first two chapters continue to enthrall audiences with their immersive storytelling and richly detailed animation.
The Mononoke film series has cemented its status as a standout in the animated feature landscape, captivating viewers with its unique narrative and compelling characters. As fans eagerly await the premiere of the third chapter, they can anticipate another thrilling installment that promises to unravel even more mysteries and deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.