The much-anticipated new animated film The Deer King is coming to Blu-ray and DVD on 18 October and to all major digital platforms on 4 October from GKIDS, with distribution by Shout! Factory. Bonus features on the release include conversations with the voice cast, an introduction from director Masashi Ando, a design gallery and more.
The Deer King is based on the award-winning fantasy novel series by author Nahoko Uehashi, which sold over two million copies and won major literary awards. Animated by the acclaimed studio Production I.G, the film marks the directorial debut of acclaimed animator Ando, who previously worked as a character designer, animation director,and key animator with the famed Studio Ghibli (Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke), and with directors Satoshi Kon (Paprika, Paranoia Agent) and Makoto Shinkai (Your Name).
Co-director Masayuki Miyaji is best known for directing the 2009 series Xam’d: Lost Memories and work on Studio Ghibli films such as My Neighbors the Yamadas. Known for their work in series and feature animation, notable works from animation studio Production I.G include the legendary film Ghost in the Shell and highly influential series FLCL, Haikyu!! and Psycho Pass.
An action-packed anime film with dazzling animation, The Deer King is a breathtaking story of survival. Following a brutal war, former soldier Van toils in a mine controlled by the ruling empire. One day, his solitary existence is upended when a pack of wild dogs carrying a deadly and incurable disease attack, leaving only Van and a young girl named Yuna as survivors. Finally free, the pair seek out a simple existence in the countryside but are pursued by nefarious forces. Intent on protecting Yuna at all costs, Van must uncover the true cause of the plague ravaging the kingdom — and its possible cure.
Here are the bonus features that are a part of the release:
- Bringing the english dub to Life
- Interview with director Masashi Ando
- Introduction from Masashi Ando
- Design gallery
- Trailers
