Nippon Animation Reveals “Araiguma Calcal-dan,” a New Series in the Beloved Raccoon Rascal Franchise
Nippon Animation has announced the development of a new television anime spinoff from the Raccoon Rascal (Araiguma Rascal) franchise, titled Araiguma Calcal-dan (Raccoon Calcal Force). The series, which marks a significant milestone for the franchise, is set to premiere in 2025.
The anime’s official teaser visual, released alongside the announcement, carries the tagline: “A half-century after the enduring masterpiece, they arrive on Earth.” The visual hints at a fresh take on the classic series, appealing to both nostalgic fans and a new generation of viewers.
Star-Studded Cast
The anime will feature a talented voice cast, including Junya Enoki, Taku Yashiro, Kenshō Ono, Yōhei Azakami, and Kenjirō Tsuda. However, details regarding their specific roles have yet to be revealed.
Behind the Scenes
Araiguma Calcal-dan is directed by Henry Hirakawa at Nippon Animation. The character designs are handled by Ayano Yoshioka, known for Let’s Make a Mug Too. The music will be composed by Arisa Okehazama, with Kisuke Koizumi serving as the sound director. The project is produced by Hiroya Tanaka (Yomiuri TV) and Kasumi Dekune (Nippon Animation), while Kozo Misawa and Hitomi Hiratsuka are credited as chief producers.
A Legacy of Raccoon Rascal
The Raccoon Rascal franchise began with the 1977 television anime Araiguma Rascal, based on Sterling North’s novel Rascal, A Memoir of a Better Era. The series was part of Nippon Animation’s World Masterpiece Theater project, which adapted classic children’s literature into anime. Notably, Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki contributed as an animator on the original series.
Since then, the Raccoon Rascal franchise has seen continued success, including the 2006 Poka Poka Mori no Rascal and the 2014 Meitantei Rascal anime series. With the new spinoff, Nippon Animation continues to build on the enduring legacy of Raccoon Rascal, introducing the beloved raccoon character to audiences in a new and exciting format.
Araiguma Calcal-dan promises to continue the tradition of heartwarming stories and charming characters that have made Raccoon Rascal a beloved part of anime history.
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