When CloverWorks first teased Grotesqqque at Anime Expo 2024, the anime community knew something special was coming. Directed by Atsushi Nishigori — the creative mastermind behind DARLING in the FRANXX and The Idolm@ster — this original omnibus film was always destined to be ambitious. But today’s announcement just elevated it to a whole new level: 14 voice cast members revealed in a single drop, including some of the biggest names in the industry.
If you’re not paying attention to this film yet, you should be. Because this isn’t just another anime movie — it’s a triple-story experience that could redefine what an original anime film can be.
What Exactly Is Grotesqqque?
Grotesqqque (stylized with a double Q — グロテスク, pronounced Gurotesuku) is an original anime omnibus film produced by CloverWorks and co-produced by JOEN, the powerhouse production company jointly established by CloverWorks, Aniplex, Wit Studio, and Shueisha. The film will consist of three completely separate stories, each set in a different world with its own characters, tone, and narrative:
Aeliens (エリィアンズ) — The first story centers on Elie and Kento Kurikura, voiced by Chika Anzai and Gen Hoshino respectively.
4649 Girl (夜露死駆★少女, Yoroshiku Shōjo) — Named after the Japanese wordplay where 4649 reads as “yoroshiku,” this story features characters like Stella, Nanashi, Hikarin, Gorgeous Mika, Sword, Chiffon, Papico, and Poyomi.
Nocturn: En Cette Nuit Grotesque (ノクターン～このグロテスクな夜に～) — The third story, with its French-titled episode, follows Ayame, Shion, Momo, and Canna in what promises to be a completely different flavor from the other two.
The Star-Studded Cast
Here’s the full lineup that was announced today, and it reads like a who’s who of anime voice acting royalty:
Chika Anzai — Known for her roles in Fire Force and Tokyo Ghoul:re, Anzai takes on the lead role of Elie in Aeliens.
Kana Ichinose — The rising star behind Shoko in A Silent Voice joins this ensemble.
Maaya Uchida — One of the most versatile seiyuu of her generation, famous for Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai and countless other iconic roles.
Rumi Ōkubo — The powerhouse voice behind characters in KonoSuba and Kakegurui.
Rie Kugimiya — The legendary “Queen of Tsundere” herself, known for Fullmetal Alchemist (Alphonse Elric), Toradora!, and Gintama. Her involvement alone is enough to make fans lose their minds.
Miyu Tomita — The breakout star of A Place Further Than the Universe and 86.
Ikumi Hasegawa — Known for her work in Re:Zero and other major productions.
Saori Hayami — One of the most beloved seiyuu in the industry, voice of Yor Forger in Spy x Family and Violet Evergarden.
Gen Hoshino — Not just a voice actor but a celebrated singer-songwriter and actor in his own right. His involvement signals the film’s ambitions go well beyond typical anime productions.
Sara Minami — A talented actress crossing over into the anime world.
Adding to the star power are four members of the idol group Nogizaka46: Miku Ichinose, Nagi Inoue, Nao Tomisato, and Aruno Nakanishi. This marks a fascinating crossover between the idol and anime industries — something CloverWorks has explored successfully before.
Why This Film Matters
There are several reasons why Grotesqqque is shaping up to be one of the most important anime films of 2026.
First, the omnibus format is relatively rare in anime. While anthology films exist, having three completely distinct stories under one directorial vision is bold. Nishigori is known for his emotionally complex storytelling and stunning visual direction — imagine that talent applied across three different worlds.
Second, the JOEN backing means this project has the combined resources of four of the most powerful names in anime production. CloverWorks (Spy x Family, Bocchi the Rock!), Aniplex, Wit Studio (Attack on Titan, Spy x Family), and Shueisha are putting their weight behind this original IP.
Third, the cast itself tells you everything. When you have Rie Kugimiya, Maaya Uchida, Saori Hayami, and Gen Hoshino all attached to a single film, it means the roles are substantial and the production values are exceptional.
What We Know About the Release
The film was originally slated for a 2025 release when first announced at Anime Expo 2024, but it was later pushed to 2026 with the updated title Grotesqqque (adding the double Q). This delay, combined with today’s massive cast reveal, suggests the film is deep into production and likely targeting a late 2026 premiere.
Aniplex is handling distribution, which typically means a strong theatrical run in Japan and a potential international release through their established distribution networks.
For more on what’s coming in anime this year, check out our coverage of Dorohedoro Season 3 and the Jujutsu Kaisen Season 4 announcement.
What Do You Think?
CloverWorks is delivering something truly unique with Grotesqqque. Three stories, fourteen voice actors, one visionary director — this could be the anime film event of 2026. Which of the three segments are you most excited about? And who in this incredible cast are you most hyped to hear in their roles? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
