"PSYCHO-PASS 3" Welcoming life-sized panel of Arata or Ren to your home!? Pop-up store is now open

A new "Love Live!" series TV anime "Love Live! Super Star!!" will be broadcast on NHK E Tele from July 2021. "Love Live" is a "School Idol Project" developing in various media, including CD releases, anime, games, and live events under the theme of "Minna de Kanaeru Monogatari" (The Story Fulfilled by Everyone) The new series "Love Live! Super Star!!" started as a new project following μ's, Aqours, and Nijigasaki High School Idol Club in January 2020. In December 2020, the announcement of the members of the new group "Liella!" became a hot topic. And finally, it was announced that a TV anime will be broadcast on NHK E Tele from July 2021. In addition, the production of the first live-action promotion video by the cast members of Aqours from "Love Live! Sunshine!!" and the live concert and fan meeting of the groups from "Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club" were announced. Check out the "Love Live!" series official website for further information. (C) 2017 Project Love Live! Sunshine!! (C) 2020 Project Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club (C) Project Love Live! Super Star!!

"JOJO WORLD in YOKOHAMA", a limited-timelimited time theme park where visitors can experience the world of the TV anime series "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure", will open in the "Yokohama World Porters" from March 5 to May 9, 2021. The park will feature mini-games, attractions, and photo spots that can only be experienced there. "JOJO WORLD" will feature mini-games that can only be experienced there, such as "Memetaa! Ripple Roulette", "Ancient Roman Chariot Death Match Galapon", "DIO no Kisama! Don't look at me!" and other attractions such as "Joestar's World Tour," "Let's Go to the Manga Artist's Home",," and "Passchone Team Aptitude Test",," as well as a limited-timelimited time theme park where you can enter the world of the main visuals and enjoy commemorative photos with the Joestar family. In addition, original goods featuring five life-size illustrations of the main characters of each series, including Jonathan Joestar, Joseph Joestar, Jotaro Kujo, Higashikata Josuke, and Giorno Giovana, and ten "chibi-chara" illustrations drawn by illustrator Yupon, as well as collaboration food based on the works will be available at restaurants in "Yokohama World Porters". In addition, for the enjoyment of "JoJo" fans all over the country, original goods will be available for sale via the Internet, and a mini-game will be available to play online only. "JOJO WORLD in YOKOHAMA" will be open for a limited-timelimited time from March 5 to May 9 in the "Yokohama World Porters". After Yokohama, Osaka and Hakata will also be open for a limited-timelimited time. (C) Hirohiko Araki & LUCKY LAND COMMUNICATIONS/Shueisha, JoJo's Bizarre Adventure THE ANIMATION PROJECT

The "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle" live event, "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle was held from 7:00 p.m. on February 21, 2021, and was exclusively streamed on "Abema PPV Online Live". "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle photo by Kumei Kenta / nishinaga "saicho" isao / Kobayashi Kousuku (C) Abema TV, Inc. (C) King Record Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. src="https://animeanime.jp/imgs/zoom/388793.jpg" class="inbody-img"> In "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" two teams were chosen to battle each other on each day. The Osaka Division "Dotsuitare Honpo" (Iwasaki Ryouta / Kasai Keingo / Kuroda Takaya) and the Ikebukuro Division "Buster Bros!!!" (Kimura Subaru / Ishiya Haruki / Amasaki Kouhei) battled in the 1st Battle, which was streamed from 4:00 p.m. on January 31, and the Nagoya Division "Bad Ass Temple" (Hayama Shouta / Sakakibara Yuuki / Takeuchi Eiji) and the Shinjuku Division "Maternrou" (Hayami Shou / Kijima Ryuuichi / Itou Kento) battled in the 2nd Battle, which was streamed from 4:00 p.m. on February 14. The 3rd Battle, the final battle, was the battle between the Shibuya Division "Fling Posse" (Shirai Yuuskuke / Saitou Souma / Nozuyama Yukihiro) and the Yokohama Division "Mad Trigger Crew" (Asanuma Shintarou / Komada Wataru / Kamio Shinichirou). They fascinated the fans from the opening with an intense battle. Many fans commented in the "Abema" comments saying, "Cool, cool, Coooollllll!", "They give me the shivers!", and "Yokohama will win! Shibuya will win, too!" You could feel the audience enjoying the live streaming as if they were "together" at an actual concert. Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle photo by Kumei Kenta / nishinaga "saicho" isao / Kobayashi Kousuku (C) Abema TV, Inc. (C) King Record Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. src="https://animeanime.jp/imgs/zoom/388792.jpg" class="inbody-img"> The live event started with the songs by the Division All-Stars, "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle +" and "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle Anthem +", followed by "Hypnosis Mic: Glory or Dust", the theme song of <<2nd D.B.R.>> that was released in the opening trailer the other day. The songs were special versions performed by the two teams, "Fling Posse" and "Mad Trigger Crew". An entrance movie was played for each division's part, and the three members of each team appeared on stage. With the unique solo songs of both Shibuya and Yokohama, and the teams' songs with impressive staging that express the color of each team, the two teams performed in great coordination. Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle Chuuouku photo by Kumei Kenta / nishinaga "saicho" isao / Kobayashi Kousuku (C) Abema TV, Inc. (C) King Record Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. src="https://animeanime.jp/imgs/zoom/388814.jpg" class="inbody-img"> Also, in the middle of the live event, the three members of the Party of Words from Chuuouku, Kobayashi Yuu as Touhouten Otome, Takahashi Chiaki as Kadenokouji Ichijiku, and Yamamoto Nozomi as Aohitsugi Nemu, appeared on the center stage to perform their song from last year, "Femme Fatale". Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle Fling Posse photo by Kumei Kenta / nishinaga "saicho" isao / Kobayashi Kousuku (C) Abema TV, Inc. (C) King Record Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. src="https://animeanime.jp/imgs/zoom/388797.jpg" class="inbody-img"> Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle Mad Trigger Crew photo by Kumei Kenta / nishinaga "saicho" isao / Kobayashi Kousuku (C) Abema TV, Inc. (C) King Record Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. src="https://animeanime.jp/imgs/zoom/388805.jpg" class="inbody-img"> The latest songs from both Shinjuku Division and Yokohama Division were also performed for the first time. "Black Journey" from "Fling Posse", which was composed by "Tanaka (former job: Boku no Lyric no Bouyomi) and "Kenkaiyoshi", and "Hunting Charm" from "Mad Trigger Crew", which was composed by "Ice Bahn" and "Dirty Orange". They performed the battle song "Reason to Fight", which will be recorded on the CD "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 2nd D.R.B Fling Posse VS Mad Trigger Crew" (set to be released on March 24), towards the end of the concert. And their final intense performances for the fans watching online were a special 2-Division version of "Survival of the Illest +" and "Summit of Division". Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle photo by Kumei Kenta / nishinaga "saicho" isao / Kobayashi Kousuku (C) Abema TV, Inc. (C) King Record Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. src="https://animeanime.jp/imgs/zoom/388796.jpg" class="inbody-img"> The leaders of each division talked about their thoughts on the performance. Shirai Yuusuke as Amemura Ramuda, the leader of the Shibuya Division, said, "It was so fun! Today's performance was a mixture of our enjoyment and the desire to win," and Asanuma Shintarou as Aohitsugi Samatoki, the leader of the Yokohama Division, said, "Since we once lost in the battle between the Divisions, we came with our minds set to never lose again. I felt great joy to be able to deliver entertainment through the screen when not only Japan but the whole world is feeling down," closing the curtains on "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle with its intense energy still lingering in the air. "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>>" 3rd Battle is available on "Abema PPV Online Live" until 11:59 p.m. on February 28. The streaming ticket for the show can also be used as a vote to decide the winning team. You can vote once per ticket. In addition, it was announced that "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle 6th Live <<2nd D.R.B>> Final Battle Shinshutsu Kekka Happyoukai" (announcement of the teams advancing to the final battle) will be exclusively streamed on "Abema Special Channel" from 7:00 p.m. on May 15, 2021. The leaders of all six Divisions get together to hear the results of the battles. (C) Abema TV, Inc (C) King Record Co., Ltd. All rights reserved.

AnimeJapan 2021, one of the world's largest anime events (held online from March 27 to March 30, 2021), has released a group visual with a newly-drawn illustration based on the theme of this year's event, "Connect (∞)". At the same time, all the programs of the pay channels, "AJ Stage" and "AJ Studio" that will be available on the day were announced. However, in light of the current situation of the coronavirus and the emergency declaration issued by the government on January 7, and after considering the health and safety of the visitors and people involved, the real event will be canceled and the event will be held online only. This time, all the programs of "AJ Stage" and "AJ Studio," the pay-per-view channels that will be available on the day of "AJ 2021," have been released. There will be a total of 33 programs on the AJ Stage and 21 programs on the AJ Studio, for a total of 54 programs over the two days. On both days, 24-hour archived streaming will be available, so you can enjoy "AJ" all day long. Online tickets for AnimeJapan 2021 will go on sale at 1:00 pm on March 1, 2021. Tickets for March 27 (available from 9:00 am Japan time on March 27 to 11:59 pm Japan time on March 28) and March 28 (available from 9:00 am Japan time on March 28 to 11:59 pm Japan time on March 29) will be priced at 3,800 JPY each (tax included). Two-day tickets are priced at 7,300 JPY (tax included). Goods featuring the newly drawn illustrations will also be available online.

A papercut art of Kirito, Asuna, and Alice from the TV anime "Sword Art Online: Alicization - War of Underworld" has appeared. It is available for pre-order on "Kiritorie" for a limited time, starting from Feb. 26, 2021. The product 'TV anime "Sword Art Online: Alicization - War of Underworld" Kiritorie' is a papercut artwork of Kirito, Asuna, and Alice, made with the artisan's impressive skill just like the sword skills of these characters. The '"Black Swordsman" Kirito,' uses black colored paper which is the image-color of Kirito. This single piece of black paper was more than enough to express the details of Kirie and the strongness of Kirito himself. The swords that Kirito used; Elucidator and Dark Repulser from the Aincrad Arc are also strong and firm. The 'Goddess of Creation "Stacia" Asuna,' is a piece that expresses Asuna in the look of the Goddess of Creation, Stacia, based on the image-color of Asuna from the "Knights of the Blood" using red colored paper. Including the details on the outfit and the "Radiant Light," this single piece of paper is full of the artisan's outstanding passion. The '"Integrity Knight" Alice,' uses blue colored paper based on the image of Alice's eyes and armor. The fluttering cape and hair of Alice make this piece extremely lively, almost like it would move at any moment. Every piece of flower on the 'Fragrant Olive Sword' is cut into detail with care. 'TV Anime "Sword Art Online: Alicization - War of Underworld" Kiritorie' is priced at 14,080 JPY (Tax Incl.) each. It is available for pre-order on "Kiritorie" for a limited period of one week, starting from Feb. 26, 2021. (C) 2017 Kawahara Reki / KADOKAWA ASCII Media Works / SAO-A Project

Gyroaxia from "Argonavis from BanG Dream!" made the cover of the music magazine "GiGS April Issue". It also received a cover article at the beginning of the magazine and a special poster is included, too. GyroAxia is a band from "Argonavis from BanG Dream!", a project that centers on boys' bands. The band plays intense music and is comprised of Asahi Nayuta (voice: Ogasawara Jin) on vocals, Satozuka Kenta (voice: Hashimoto Shinichi) on lead guitar, Misono Reon (voice: Mano Takumi) on rhythm guitar, Akebono Ryou (voice: Akiya Hiroto) on bass, and Sakaigawa Miyuki (voice: Miyauchi Kousuke) on drums. The special feature in the "GiGS April Issue" is titled "Ima Koko ni Hibiku, Zettai Ouja no Atsuki Houkou 'ONE'" ("ONE", the echoing roar of the absolute king). It digs into "Argonavis from BanG Dream!", the project that gave birth to Gyroaxia, and conducts personal interviews with each member. It also includes content like "Breaking down the sound of Gyroaxia", "About their first album 'ONE'", and "Practicing their band score 'MANIFESTO'". Hashimoto Shinichi (the voice of Satozuka Kenta) and Akiya Keito (the voice of Akebono Ryou) have posted comments about the magazine on their Twitter account. "GiGS April Issue" is priced at 980 JPY, and will be in stores from February 27, 2021.

The 3rd collaboration items between the voice actor Okamoto Nobuhiko and "Q-pot." has been announced. It is now available on "Q-pot." branches and official online shops. Also, the collaboration menu can also be enjoyed in Q-pot Cafe. in Omotesandou. The highlight of the collaboration is the sweet, crunchy Bisquinu (Biscuit Dog) "NOBUPOO". "NOBUPOO" is a cookie inspired by Okamoto Nobuhiko's signature "Oka-kun", which is a Bisquinu made of freshly baked cookies. The design features a cute and adorable appearance of "NOBUPOO" while it is biting its favorite chocolate. The necklace has an appearance as if it was a real freshly baked biscuit that also gives off a nice fragrances. Do also check out the cute expression that was drawn with the chocolate pen. The general goods, such as tote bag, mug, and tin badge, have also been announced. The canvas-made bag is perfect when you go on a stroll, during lunch time, or even for shopping. The limited menu of Q-pot Cafe. in Omotesandou has also been announced, and it features the sweets with the actual "NOBUPOO". Cookie jar and take-away cake are also available. "Q-pot. X Okamoto Nobuhiko Collaboration/ Accessory" is now available on "Q-pot." branches and official online shop. A limited commentary video from Okamoto Nobuhiko will be given upon the purchase of the collaboration accessories.

"Misoji Eco", designed by illustrator Nishizawa 5mm, becomes a figure. Pre-orders are currently available on the "Union Creative" official website. "Nishizawa 5mm Illustration [Mizoji Eco]" is a 3D model of the illustration drawn as a commemoration of Nishizawa 5mm reaching 300,000 followers on Twitter. It's a complete recreation of Eco's overwhelmingly voluptuous body pouring out of her sexy swimsuit. "Nishizawa 5mm Illustration [Mizoji Eco]" is priced at 15,800 JPY (tax excluded). Pre-orders are available on the "Union Creative" official website until April 9, 2021, and shipping is scheduled for September 2021. (C) Nishizawa 5mm

New products of the apparel brand "Noitamina Apparel", from Fuji TV's late-night anime slot "Noitamina", including "'PYSCHO-PASS' Wristwatches" have been announced. As a celebration for the 10th anniversary of the brand, the online shop got a renewal, and visuals that exceed the common sense of anime goods, have been revealed. "Noitamina Apparel" is an apparel brand that started together with the broadcast of the TV anime "Guilty Crown" in 2011. Regarding the TV anime "PSYCHO-PASS" that was broadcasted in 2013, various products that are not limited to anime-related goods, including the "characters’ perfume voting project" where fans will vote for the fragrances of the character's perfume to be created, were conducted. A total of 5 new products were announced along with the 10th anniversary of "Noitamina Apparel". For the "'PYSCHO-PASS' Wristwatches", it comes in "Public Safety Bureau's Model" with the color of the raid jacket that only Inspector can wear as the base's color and the silver carving of the public safety's mark, and "Ministry of Foreign Affairs Operations’ Model" with shining black as the base's color and the carving of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Operations Department "SAD's mark that gives off a luxurious aura. Other products from "PSYCHO-PASS" series are the "Bottled Aroma Gel Candle" (7 types) inspired by Shindo Arata, Kei Mikhail Ignatov, Hinakawa Sho, Kogami Shinya, Ginoza Nobuchika, Makishima Shingo, and Tsunemori Akane, and the "Graphic Art Canvas" featuring the illustration of Kogami Shinya, Makishima Shingo, and Ginoza Nobuchika. Do also check out "Big Silhouette Hoodies" with the cute Noitamina official characters, Mina & Noitan, which is illustrated by Umino Chika, known for "Honey & Clover" and "Eden of the East". The price for the latest product of "Noitamina Apparel" are as follows: "PSYCHO-PASS 3" Wristwatch Public Safety Bureau's Model (First Press Limited Specification): 32,780 JPY (tax included) "PSYCHO-PASS 3" Wristwatch Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Model (First Press Limited Specification): 36,080 JPY "PSYCHO-PASS 3" Bottled Aroma Gel Candle (7 types): 4,950 JPY (tax included) each "PSYCHO-PASS 3" Graphic Art Canvas (3 types with 2 sizes): 4,840 JPY (tax included) each for small and 13,200 JPY (tax included) each for big "'Mina & Noitan' Big Silhouette Hoodies": 6,380 JPY (tax included) Further details can be found on each product webpage of "Noitamina Apparel" Online Shop. （C）Psycho Pass Production Committee

As a new project in the "Psycho-Pass" series, 3 movies had been released continuously from Jan. 2019. The first movie "Case.1 Crime and Punishment", was released on Jan. 25. Then, on Feb. 15 was released "Case.2 First Guardian", and on Mar. 8 the third movie "Case.3 On the Other Side of Love and Hate" was released, and each movie focused on the story of different characters. "Psycho-Pass" is an SF original anime broadcasted on Fuji TV's "Noitamina" slot, produced by Production I.G, and it involve many famous creators , including Motohiro Katsuyuki, known for "Bayside Shakedown", as main director and Urobuchi Gen, who is known for his dark stories such as "Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica", as a scenarist. The TV anime series started in 2012, and many related works have been released since then, including manga, novels, and games. In 2015, the completely new work "Psycho-Pass: The Movie" was released and became a big hit. The long-awaited new trilogy features major characters such as Shimotsuki Mika x Ginoza Nobuchika (Case.1), Sugo Teppei x Masaoka Tomomi (Case.2), and Kogami Shinya (Case.3). Currently, a preview video with the "keywords" from the three stories is released, and it is an exciting preview that unraveling the missing points of "Pycho-Pass" that has not been revealed so far. This time, we will reveal more information about Ginoza and Shimotsuki, who are the main characters of "Case.1 Crime and Punishment" that was released on Jan. 25. Those who said, "I watched 'Pycho-Pass', but I forgot the story and characters," or "I didn't see the work in the first place, but I want to see now", please read this article . ■"Pycho-Pass"'s world concept The story is set in Japan in 2112 AD, which is controlled by the "Sibyl System" that has the function of quantifying people's psychological state. This qualification is called "Psycho-Pass", and everyone is living using it as an index in order to lead an "ideal life" free from harmful stress. Among it, "crime coefficient" is a measured value related to crime, and even if a person who has not committed a crime will be judged as a "potential offender" if it exceeds the specified value. To suppress crimes that happen even in such a surveillance society, inspectors (= enforcers) of the police organization "Public Security Bureau" under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Health and Welfare use a special pistol "dominator" that is organically connected to the Sibyl System and carry out security maintenance activities. Moreover, even if the Crime Coefficient exceeds the specified value, a potential criminal (= executive officer), who is evaluated as having the ability to understand, predict, and resolve the crime, also joins in as an enforcer. The first season, broadcast from Oct. 2012 to Mar. 2013, is dedicated to the member of the Public Security Bureau who suffered from Shougo Makishima, a thug but because he has a peculiar constitution called exemption constitution, in which the criminal coefficient corresponding to the criminal trend is not measured by Sibyl, his Crime Coefficient can not be measured. Tsunemori Akane, a new inspector is struggling with the threat but decided to confront and eventually find a new way that did not require the Sibyl System. The second season, which had been broadcast from Oct. to Dec. 2014, is set one and a half years after the end of the first season. Ginoza, who became an executive officer after a series of incidents, and a new member of the Public Security Bureau with a new inspector Shimotsuki will fight against a person named Kasumi Kirito who can lower the crime coefficient by medication and psychological guidance. Kasumi was a human from a multi-body transplant operation from 184 people who died in a plane crash, and the Sibyl System, which can only measure individual crime coefficients, could not find him. Like Makishima in the first season, members of the Public Security Bureau will suffer because of the Sibyl System. "Case 1.Crime and Punishment" will focus on Ginoza, who had helped Akane, the main protagonist in season 1 and 2, and also Shimozuka, who was troubled by Akane. It take place on winter 2117, when a runaway car crash into the Public Security building. The driver of that car is Yasaka Izumi, a counselor at a potential criminal isolation facility (sanctuary) in Aomori. However, immediately before the interrogation, Yasaka was immediately sent home. Shimotsuki goes to Aomori with Ginoza to repatriate Yasaka. They found what can be called a "false paradise"... ■Ginoza, who becomes popular by his appearances in the 2nd season, is also a reason for the success of the new work! Ginoza, who is the main protagonist in "Case.1 Crime and Punishment," is a character that has been appearing in this work since the 1st season. At that time, he wore a suit and had slightly long bangs but a nervous expression and glasses, expressing the so-called "elite inspector" with his body. However, at the end of the 1st season, when his Crime Coefficient exceeded the specified value, he becomes an executive officer, and his appearance greatly changed! First, he cut his hair, stopped wearing glasses, and even showed off his tank top, which he never showed in the first season. There is no women who can't resist this drastic gap, "Hiding such a great body under the suit..." Also, although he was only preaching to Akane, he stopped talking around, and on the contrary, he started talking with the newbie Shimotsuki. Furthermore, it was even more surprising that in the movie released in 2015, his hair was stretched into a ponytail. Since in the trailer, he appeared again with a ponytail, to find an answer to your expectations, "How Ginoza will change in new work?", you should check out his development on the cinema's big screen. It's impossible to talk about Ginoza's past without tears... Ginoza hates people with a high Crime Coefficient. Because of that and to keep his mental state clean, he believe that he inspectors and enforcers shouldn't interact deeply, so he didn't talk much with Kogami, his former partner and colleague inspector that he knew from high school, and also his father Masaoka as both of them become potential criminals. After being betrayed and losing everything, he becomes a close person, and the psycho-pass of Ginoza gradually deteriorates after Kogami was not a potential criminal. He also attended counseling. In addition, while searching for Makishima's whereabouts, he was caught in a trap and suffered from a serious injury, which destroyed his left arm. At that time, Masaoka protected Ginoza but gets fatally injured and eventually dies. They had a parent-child conversation just before death, and Ginoza regretted that he pushed him away until now. After that, his Crime Coefficient exceeded the specified value, and he became a potential offender, he chose to live as an executive officer. His left arm was replaced by an artificial limb, and he took off his fake glasses that he wore because he hated his eyes, which resemble him of his father, and his tense posture had become calm. In the second season, as was said before, Ginoza impressed us with his muscular body. He has done many things since 1st season, such as sending advice to Akane and destroying the drone with his artificial hand. → Next page: Cheeky and extra moves... Is Shimotsuki growing in the new work? ■Cheeky and extra moves... Is Shimotsuki growing in the new work? Shimotsuki, who appeared in the 2nd season, was defined as a proper person by the Sibyl System even though he was a minor, and became an inspector at an unusually young age, at 18. Since he sincerely believes in the Sibyl System and thinks that people with a high Crime Coefficient should be eliminated promptly, he is rebellious toward Akane who in her turn tries to confront it. As a result, they often act in a way that interferes. Also, although he basically looks down on executive officers and potential criminals as an inspector, he seems to be longing for Kunizuka Yayoi. He also smelled like "Lilly". Shimotsuki seems to be quite "cheeky" in the anime. Even in the promo video, he confidently said, "This time it's my case," so even in the new work, Shimotsuki's actions along with his personality are likely to interfere the story.

While awaiting Blu-ray and DVD for the latest series "PSYCHO-PASS 3 FIRST INSPECTOR" on Jul. 15, 2020, the interviews will be released 3 consecutive weeks. Miyano Mamoru, who played Homura Shizuka, talked about his impression of playing a mysterious character and his opinion about the society controlled fully by "the Sibyl System" through the 3rd volume of the official interview. <Full comments are listed below> ---Please tell us your impression about playing the character from the 3rd season "PSYCHO-PASS 3" (rephrased as "PP3") to "PSYCHO-PASS 3 FIRST INSPECTOR" (rephrased as "PP3FI"). Miyano Mamoru (rephrased as "Miyano"): I felt "PP3" became a hard-liner mystery because 60 minutes were given per episode. When I played Homura Shizuka, I asked the director (Shiotani Naoyoshi) about his impression of the character, like "why would he take such action?" or "what is his goal?". Every time I received an answer, I was always surprised by it. There are many hidden features in "PP3", and I feel love for delicate designs. I wondered how many things does he want to do through the anime. I think the biggest appeals of this work are the abundant settings and neat structures. ---How did you understand Homura Shizuka? Miyano: You cannot understand what is he thinking only by looking at his actions. Being mysterious is one of his appealing points. But I thought that I cannot keep Homura as a mysterious character through my acting, therefore, I asked the director to update Homura's settings, and I always had Homura's believes and sense of justice in my mind. There are not many expressions of his belief and sense of justice in the anime, but I tried to voice him according his thoughts. ---So there was a movement in his feelings behind the scene. Miyano: There is just one scene in "PP3FI" that Homura kindly talks to others, and how he talked was much different from how he usually behaves. It slightly shows his spirituality and belief toward his goals. It is the first moment when he showed his emotions openly to others. I am sure that scene makes him look mysterious. ---What did you think about the inspectors Shindou Arata and Kei Mikhail Ignatov, who oppose to the mysterious organization "Bifrost", where Homura belongs to? Miyano: I believe that one of the appealing points of this series is the characteristics of two characters (Arata and Kei). I believe many of you had surprised from the appearances of a new type of partnership and new abilities, and there were changes to the flow of the story after the interactions between the characters were made. I like how the relationship between the two gradually changes and the story of each inspector gets depicted as well. ---In episode 8 of "PP3", Shizuka meets Kei and invites him as the 13th inspector. What impression did you get from Kei in episode 8? Miyano: Kei is an honest man with a strong sense of justice and a clear weak point. (His wife, Maiko Maya Stronskaya) I think Kei was an easy man to handle for Shizuka. I think a tricky part of Shizuka became evident with it. ---At the same time, Shizuka confronts "Bifrost"'s congressman, Shirogane Haruki and Saionji Eiko in "PP3" and "PP3FI". How did he understand the environment of "Bifrost"? Miyano: I was stunned when I talked to the congressmen in "Bifrost". I did not want to lose to them (Shirogane and Saionji). I always rely on the actors playing them (Shirogane is played by Naka Hiroshi and Saionji is played by Tanaka Atsuko), since they are more experienced than I am, but I feel like confronting them as Shizuka. I exchanged words carefully while being nervous. ---The secret of "Bifrost" is revealed n "PP3FI". What's your thought on the society controlled by "Sibyl System"? Miyano: I know, I know that "Sibyl System" is right...but is it acceptable? I think the interesting point of this series is that you always have "but" in your mind. A decrease in the number of criminals can be expected (by arresting the possible future criminals), and the safety can be intensified. I think having your career chosen is an efficient way of living your life, but following the right and efficient paths may not be the only interesting way. I think I am allowed to work in multiple fields because I had experienced many things in my life. I believe having many experiences is the method to foster your life with more choices. For example, when choosing a career, I like to look for things which suit me well. That is why the theme of "'Sybl System' and humans" is interesting. You never get any mistake when you rely fully on the system and there is a possibility of believing in the wrong form of justice. That is why system needs humans, and it is depicted in "PP3FI" as well. ---How do you want the fans to enjoy "PP3FI"? Miyano: I think many fans so far thought that Shizuka is a quiet character, and I think many people also believed that he is the last enemy. How he behaves in episode 8 toward Kei is clearly hiding something. (laugh) But if you take a look at "PP3FI", you will quickly realize that Shizuka is one of the main characters. I am relieved to hear that by knowing the story plot for "PP3FI". Please enjoy the progression by watching the series. (C) PSYCHO-PASS Production Committee

As the release of the Blu-ray & DVD of "Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector", the latest title of the series, on Jul. 15, 2020 is getting close, a 3-week interview has been conducted. This is the 2nd part in which Horiuchi Kenyuu as Azusawa Kouichi talks about what difficulty he felt in playing the lunatic character, his impression of the character, and his thoughts on his role. <Full comments are as below> Horiuchi Kenyuu as Azusawa Kouichi ――What was your impression on the TV series "Psycho-Pass 3" (hereinafter PP3)? Horiuchi Kenyuu(hereinafter Horiuchi): I was told that the "Psycho-Pass" series was very popular, so it was a pleasure as an actor to be part of it. ――How did you interpret the role of Azusawa Kouichi, the First Inspector who does the dirty work for the mysterious <Bifrost>? Horiuchi: I've been informed that he was a "villain", but when I saw the line "I'm happy" in the 1st episode and was told to "Portray him as an elusive character," it made me confused since there were so many patterns to play him in. But after a few takes, I got a kind of "Not knowing if he is good or bad" feeling, and as the story developed I could grasp his past. The relationship between Azusawa and (Shindou) Arata's father (Shindou Atsushi) made me think he must have a scar in his heart. It was quite a challenge to figure out the elusive character little by little, but at the same time, was very interesting. ――Azusawa's character got revealed episode by episode. In episode 4 we found out that he was good at martial arts. Horiuchi: He was so strong that the Audio Director told me not to use too much breath, haha. He even says "Ack-chooww!" Anyway, he was an interesting character. Oh, and he gives Enomiya Haruki a "choice" yet drives him to his death. He doesn't directly kill him, he lets him choose (death)... Azusawa is really crafty, haha. ――Azusawa, the First Inspector of <Bifrost> was one of the smartest criminals of the series. Horiuchi: I've seen many villains in various series, but he may be the sharpest of them all. He dodges through the <Sibyl System> and kills people without staining his hue. How he gives his victims a "choice" was so scary, I would even call it lunacy. But to him, this is just life. Everything that happens is within his expectations, so it doesn't mean much to him. In a way, he's a genius. Still, he has a hole in his heart, and his ambition comes from his desire to fill in that hole. I felt that sorrow of his in Azusawa's lines when I played his role. ――Azusawa's partner, Obata (Chiyo)-chan, is a tough female that denounces him. But Azusawa doesn't mind, and even adores her. What do you think of their relationship? Horiuchi: She was quite the partner. Exchanging lines with Obata-chan (Yahagi Sayuri) came naturally to me. I still wondered why Azusawa, as a superior as an Inspector, let Obata-chan be so harsh on him, haha. But Azusawa has a lot of trust in Obata-chan. He never gets mad at her for making a mistake, and tells her it's okay. I once asked the director (Shiotani Naoyoshi) about their relationship, and he told me that Obata used to be an apparel designer, and she accidentally reached <Bifrost> when she was hacking in her spare time. Azusawa headhunted her to become an Inspector. (Shindou) Arata and Kei (Mikhail Ignatov) are called climbing partners, but I believe Azusawa and Obata-chan have the same kind of relationship. ――So, they're the counterpart of Arata and Kei. Horiuchi: In the scene where Azusawa tells Obata-chan about the story of "The Nutcracker (and the Mouse King)" (in episode 8), he is indirectly telling her about his plans. But since their conversation is so comical, the story sounds casual. I thought it was a beautiful scene. ――What did you think of the detectives of the Public Safety Bureau? Horiuchi: I believe this is a series with many complex words. However, the actors play their roles so well that you can understand their lines, thanks to their skills. Personally speaking, I liked Todoroki (Tenma). He is a member of an elite family, yet he's a tough-looking Enforcer. It's amazing how carefully the past is depicted in the story. The scene where Todoroki is delighted of getting a Dominator was so cute, haha. Also, when I saw the scene where Irie (Kazumichi) fiddles with the music box, I was like "Yeah, there are people like that." Oh, I just remembered, Irie used to be a delinquent too... It was fascinating to watch the detectives being themselves, but pulling up their socks when they need to. ――In "PP3FI", Azusawa takes over the Public Safety Bureau building. What was your impression on "PP3FI"? Horiuchi: Even Obata-chan being taken in custody in the Public Safety Bureau building was within his expectations. I was purely impressed by his actions. There were also scenes where Obata-chan showed her skills, and seeing the relationship between the two was interesting. ――Azusawa finally confronts Shindou Atsushi's son, Shindou Arata. Horiuchi: I would like everyone who watched the show to imagine what happened to Shindou Arata and Azusawa. Azusawa climbed the ladder from Enforcer to First Inspector, and wanted more. His expression when he talked about what his goals were was so intense. It was terrifying, but at the same time, he seemed like he was in ecstasy. He had calculated way through so far, but just twice, he gets it wrong. The ending was quite sad. Obata-chan's last scene left a strong image on me. ――<Bifrost> gets unveiled in "PP3FI". How do you feel about a society controlled by the <Sibyl System>? Horiuchi: There may really be a society controlled by an AI in the near future. But I think there will be people who try to take advantage of the system. <Bifrost> does exactly that. They're playing a game by taking advantage of the <Sibyl System>, so probably the same thing will happen in the near future. However, I also thought that maybe the people of <Bifrost> were trying to create a better system than the <Sibyl System>. ――What are your thoughts on playing the role of Azusawa. Horiuchi: It wasn't difficult to take on the role of Azusawa, but I can't say I could fully grasp what kind of person he was, he was quite complex. To be honest it was hard work. However, it was a great opportunity to take on such an interesting role. What's amazing about this series is that you can enjoy it from various perspectives. Each of the main characters or even different from them. The story doesn't conclude that Azusawa is "evil". This gives the series the depth it has. ――How would you like the fans to enjoy "PP3FI"? Horiuchi: Many elements from the former series appear in the show, so I believe all the "Psycho-Pass" fans can enjoy it. However, we need more explanation from Azusawa. I was talking with Kaji (Yuuki)-kun (as Shindou Arata) the other day, and I said "Maybe Azusawa will come back as an Enforcer." He told me Azusawa has too strong of a character, haha. I wish that someday, he will tell us more about himself. (C)Psycho-Pass Production Committee