Overview
- The Rose of Versailles is a renowned shōjo manga that explores themes of identity, responsibility, and romance against the backdrop of the French Revolution.
- Despite initial skepticism towards the shōjo genre, this narrative transcended borders, sparking interest in French culture and leading to numerous adaptations.
- The film adaptation, set to be released on January 31, 2025, is directed by Ai Yoshimura and features a powerful musical score from renowned composers Hiroyuki Sawano and Kohta Yamamoto.
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Title |
The Rose of Versailles |
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Director |
Ai Yoshimura |
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Studio |
MAP |
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Release Date |
January 31, 2025 (Japan) |
While many fans are eagerly anticipating MAPPA’s adaptation of Chainsaw Man The Movie, it’s crucial not to overlook The Rose of Versailles. This adaptation of a classic shōjo work plays a significant role in linking modern audiences with French heritage and history.
Created by Riyoko Ikeda, a celebrated mangaka from the 1970s, The Rose of Versailles utilizes the turmoil of the French Revolution as a backdrop for a compelling tale about identity, loyalty, and love during transformative times.
What Is The Rose of Versailles About?
The narrative centers on Marie Antoinette, who arrives at Versailles to wed the crown prince, Louis XVI. However, it is not him who captures her heart; instead, it is Oscar Francois de Jarjayes, the captain of the Royal Guards, who has a secret of her own—Oscar is actually a woman raised as a male to fulfill her family’s legacy, a mission she embraces wholeheartedly.
As societal inequalities evolve, Oscar finds herself conflicted between her loyalty to the royal family and her empathy for the common people, while Marie gradually discovers the stark contrasts between her royal existence and the lives of those she governs. The Rose of Versailles poignantly addresses the intertwined destinies of these two characters as they navigate their responsibilities in a world on the brink of change.
The Global Impact of This Manga
The Rose of Versailles is a trailblazer that shattered stereotypes in the realm of manga. When it first appeared in the early 1970s, there was significant doubt cast upon the viability of shōjo manga, often dismissed as a lesser art form. According to Hotta Junji from Nippon.com, “shōjo manga was the lowest of them all,”with female artists facing stark disparities in earnings compared to their male counterparts.
However, Ikeda and her contemporaries proved these biases wrong, propelling The Rose of Versailles to international acclaim. The series inspired a 40-episode anime adaptation in 1979, along with a live-action film and various stage productions. This surge in popularity fostered a newfound fascination with French culture, culminating in the recognition of Ikeda, who received the Legion of Honor in France in 2009.
The Staff Behind the New Adaptation
The forthcoming adaptation, directed by Ai Yoshimura, brings a wealth of experience from previous projects such as Ao Haru Ride and Dance with Devils. Her impressive résumé includes contributions to popular series like Black Butler and Gintama, positioning her as an ideal architect for this beloved story.
Screenwriter Tomoko Konparu, known for her work on classics like Nana and Kimi ni Todoke, also collaborates with Yoshimura, bringing her extensive experience in romantic narratives to the table. This year, she crafted the Boys Love comedy Cherry Magic and is set to write its sequel in 2025.
Adding to the creative team is Mariko Oka, a seasoned animator whose character design credits span from Attack on Titan to Yuri on Ice, ensuring a visually stunning interpretation that resonates with both new fans and long-time followers.
The Sound of Revolution
Visually captivating, the film’s auditory experience is equally noteworthy. The main theme, “Versailles,”performed by J-Pop star Ayaka, features prominently in the most recent trailer. The score is produced by Hiroyuki Sawano, celebrated for his work on Attack on Titan and Blue Exorcist, with Kohta Yamamoto contributing as the primary composer.
MAPPA continues to hone its expertise in modern remakes while balancing contemporary adaptations like Chainsaw Man and Jujutsu Kaisen. This commitment to honoring classic art styles assures fans that The Rose of Versailles will maintain its magical essence while captivating a new generation. An international release is anticipated shortly after its Japanese premiere.
The Rose of Versailles is set to premiere in theaters across Japan on January 31, 2025.
Source: Nippon.com
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