“BLUELOCK” Season 2! Special “Cheering Screening” for Nagi!

On May 6th (Monday, public holiday), the “Nagi’s Birthday Commemorative Stage Greeting & Cheering Screening” event was held to celebrate the birthday of Seishiro Nagi, the genius striker who is the protagonist of the first “BLUELOCK” series film adaptation, “BLUELOCK -EPISODE Nagi-“. Let’s take a look at what went down.

With over 30 million copies of the manga series in circulation, “BLUELOCK,” which became hugely popular after the TV anime aired in 2022 (serialized in Kodansha’s “Weekly Shonen Magazine”), is known for its death-game-like style where 300 high school forwards (FWs) gathered in the “Blue Prison” aim to become the world’s greatest egoist striker, risking their soccer careers and goals in the process. It has garnered attention across all age groups as the “hottest and craziest soccer anime in history,” and its presence has expanded into areas such as mobile games and stage productions. Now, the series’ first-ever film adaptation, “BLUELOCK -EPISODE Nagi-,” is in its third week since release and has already surpassed 1.2 billion yen in box office revenue.

May 6th (Monday, public holiday) marks the birthday of Seishiro Nagi, the genius striker and protagonist of the film. On this final day of Golden Week, Nobunaga Shimazaki (voice actor for Seishiro Nagi), Yuma Uchida (voice actor for Nagi’s partner Reo Mikage), and Kazuki Ura (voice actor for Yoichi Isagi, the TV series protagonist) took to the stage to hold the “Nagi’s Birthday Commemorative Stage Greeting & Cheering Screening” event! Fans who came to the venue adorned themselves with a touch of “blue,” inspired by the film, and during the cheering screening, loud cheers erupted for Nagi and Reo in the movie. Enthusiastic voices of empathy were heard in various scenes, as audience members expressed their passionate feelings and cheered on the characters.

During the stage greeting, the voice actors appeared in glamorous tuxedos and suits for the birthday party, engaging in plenty of talk about the hit film. In the end, a special “golden soccer ball-shaped” birthday cake made its appearance! Along with the gathered fans, they celebrated Nagi’s birthday in grand style. Check out the exciting details of this event!

Event Report

■ The Cast Gathers in Full Force!

Reo Mikage, the protagonist Seishiro Nagi’s partner and the heir to the large corporation Mikage Corporation, announced the start of the stage greeting, as Mikage Corporation was hosting Nagi’s birthday party. “Thanks for coming to Nagi’s birthday party today!” Reo’s voice called out to the audience, which responded with enthusiastic cheers and applause as the voice actors took the stage.

Shimazaki (Seishiro Nagi) said, “It’s my… birthday!”, Uchida (Reo Mikage) exclaimed, “Today is Nagi’s birthday!”, and Ura (Yoichi Isagi, Team Z) introduced himself, “I’m Yoichi Isagi from Team Z. Here to celebrate Nagi!” Each of them delivered their comments in the persona of their respective characters, greeting the audience with smiles.

In its third week since release, the film has already surpassed 1.2 billion yen in box office revenue and attracted over 900,000 viewers. Many fans have repeatedly visited theaters since its release and throughout Golden Week, so the cast was asked how they spent this final day of Golden Week on May 6th (Monday).

Ura remarked, “I got a haircut! (laughs)” and Shimazaki joined in with, “I got a haircut too!” Uchida then quipped, “I… didn’t get a haircut!! (laughs),” playfully prompting laughter from the audience.

In this friendly atmosphere, the conversation shifted to the relationship between the protagonist Nagi and his best friend Reo, which is deeply portrayed in the film. Although they care for each other, they can’t be honest with their feelings, creating moments of joy and frustration for viewers. Shimazaki emphasized this relationship, saying, “As I’ve said many times before, this is a work that shines the more Reo suffers!” reiterating his past stage greeting comments about Reo’s struggles being a highlight of the film.

Uchida also shared his perspective, “Growth and change come with pain. Reo’s suffering means he’s growing, and that’s what makes it so emotional.” He commented on the transformation of Reo, the character he plays.

Additionally, he analyzed, “It’s because of the ‘BLUELOCK’ environment that their hearts waver so much, making them both appear so captivating.” Shimazaki responded, “That’s because Yuma (Uchida) portrays Reo so attractively. That’s why I always think, ‘Thank you, Yuma,’ while acting.”

Shimazaki further praised Reo’s resolve, “Reo’s ego is truly remarkable. He’s obsessed with being with Nagi and unwavering in his desire to reach the top together. But I believe Nagi feels the same way. In the end, they both need each other.” Uchida and Ura nodded vigorously in agreement.

■ Another Cheering Screening to Be Held on May 12th Amidst Enthusiastic Cheers!

The screening before the day’s event was also a “cheering screening” where audience members could vocally support their favorite characters, creating an electrifying atmosphere. In response to the positive reception, another cheering screening will be held on Sunday, May 12th.

Various recommended scenes were highlighted for viewers to focus on during the cheering screening. Shimazaki suggested, “If it were me… I’d probably say, ‘Let’s express our gratitude! We have to share our appreciation every day!’ (laughs)” commenting that he might shout out at Nagi, who often fails to express himself fully in the film.

Ura offered another hot tip, saying, “How about everyone in the audience says, ‘I’m the one who will beat you two!’ when Isagi says it to Nagi and Reo?” He enthusiastically recommended this unexpected way to enjoy the screening by speaking along with the characters.

■ The Birthday Party Kicks Off

Finally, the main event of the day was Nagi Seishiro’s birthday celebration! As the host of the Mikage Corporation-sponsored party, Uchida (Reo Mikage) grabbed the mic and efficiently energized the audience.

With the participants, the audience at the venue, and fans watching via live viewing across the country, they sang “Happy Birthday,” and afterward, the luxurious “golden soccer ball-shaped cake” made its appearance!

At the center of the celebration, Shimazaki, who plays Nagi, shared his heartfelt comment, “It feels… wonderful,” adding, “I’m not Nagi himself, but I think today he’d say, ‘Thank you!’ instead of ‘What a hassle.'”

A special birthday illustration sent by the manga artist Kouta Sannomiya was also revealed for the celebration, surprising not only the cast but also the audience. Shimazaki expressed his delight with a big smile, “This is an incredibly wonderful surprise!”

■ Second Season Confirmed! New Giveaway Information

New information to delight fans has been announced!

The broadcast of the second season of the TV series “BLUELOCK,” starring Yoichi Isagi, is set for October of this year (2024), sending the venue into a frenzy! An illustration celebrating the announcement of the second season, drawn by Yusuke Nomura, who is responsible for the “BLUELOCK” manga, was also unveiled as a surprise, further exciting the audience. Ura enthusiastically called out, “The protagonist, Yoichi Isagi, is coming back! I’m home!!” in full “ego-search” mode, adding, “I’m really looking forward to the October broadcast, but until then, please enjoy ‘EPISODE Nagi’!” He expressed his strong desire for people to continue following the story of “BLUELOCK.”

In addition, new information about the fourth-week theater giveaway was revealed during the event! The current third-week giveaway, a mini art board illustrated by Kouta Sannomiya, has been a huge hit. Starting from Friday, May 10th, the fourth-week giveaway will feature mini art boards drawn by Yusuke Nomura (randomly distributed between two types: Yoichi Isagi and Rin Itoshi).

Similar to the third week, this new giveaway will make fans want to return to theaters to complete their collection of exclusive mini art boards. The series of exciting surprise announcements kept the audience buzzing with joy throughout.

■ The Unstoppable “BLUELOCK” Craze

With Nagi’s birthday celebration and plenty of new information revealed, the venue was abuzz with excitement. In closing, Ura shared his gratitude, “I was a bit nervous to come here as Isagi, where Nagi and Reo were together, but feeling everyone’s enthusiasm made me realize once again how much ‘BLUELOCK,’ and Nagi himself, are loved all around the world! Please continue to show your love for this film.”

Uchida also shared an episode from his personal life, “We’ve unveiled a lot of new information, and entering the third week of the release, I feel like so many people have watched it. My mom even told me, ‘I’m going to watch it for the second and third time!’ and that’s only because of ‘BLUELOCK’! (laughs)” He continued, “Today’s Nagi’s birthday, and I’m so grateful he was born! Thanks to him, we met, and even though meeting brought hardships, those hardships double the joy. Please continue supporting BLUELOCK until the day the two can celebrate together.”

Shimazaki recalled a memory with Uchida, “About ten years ago, I had a memorable birthday celebration, and Yuma, who was probably meeting us for the first time, made it so lively that everyone was moved, saying, ‘What a great guy!’ Seeing him livening things up today brought back memories of that time. It was wonderful to see everyone wholeheartedly enjoying the celebration, and I’m sure Nagi also thought, ‘Thank you,’ making it a beautiful birthday.”

He added, “One more thing I felt was that everyone was vocal today! I could sense that everyone received the message from the film and put it into practice, ‘Let’s express ourselves properly.’ (laughs) I was delighted to see that something from the work could make everyone’s daily lives better. It truly was a happy day. We still have giveaways and ‘Additional Time!’ in the coming weeks, so please continue to enjoy ‘BLUELOCK’ to the fullest! Thank you very much for today!” He concluded with the day’s brightest smile.

With additional cheering screenings, new giveaways, and second season information announced, the “birthday party” was filled with fresh news. The excitement surrounding “BLUELOCK” continues to build, and it’s a story that fans won’t want to miss!

[Screening Information]

“BLUELOCK -EPISODE Nagi-” Cheering Screening Event

• Date and Time: Sunday, May 12th, 2024, 13:00 session
• Theaters:Hokkaido: Sapporo Cinema Frontier
  Miyagi: MOVIX Sendai
  Tokyo: Shinjuku Piccadilly / Grand Cinema Sunshine Ikebukuro
  Kanagawa: Yokohama Burg 13 / TOHO Cinemas Kawasaki / TOHO Cinemas Ebina
  Chiba: TOHO Cinemas Lalaport Funabashi
  Saitama: MOVIX Saitama
  Shizuoka: MOVIX Shimizu
  Niigata: T-Joy Niigata Bandai
  Aichi: Midland Square Cinema
  Osaka: Osaka Station City Cinema / Namba Parks Cinema
  Kyoto: MOVIX Kyoto
  Hyogo: Kino Cinema Kobe International
  Okayama: MOVIX Kurashiki
  Hiroshima: Hiroshima Wald 11
  Fukuoka: T-Joy Hakata

<Guidelines for the Cheering Screening>

• This is a special screening session where light sticks, penlights, and cheering are allowed. If you prefer a quieter viewing experience, please attend a regular screening.
• Cheering and calls with vocalization are allowed, but please refrain from excessive shouting or any actions that may disturb other guests.
• Please use light sticks of appropriate length and brightness that do not obstruct the view of other guests.
• Changing rooms are not provided. Please refrain from changing clothes in the theater restrooms.
• To avoid obstructing the view of guests in the back rows, please refrain from raising cheering items above shoulder level or wearing cosplay that obstructs the view of others.
• Bringing in firearms and using items that emit loud noises, such as crackers and whistles, is prohibited. (Plastic and paper megaphones and stick balloons are acceptable, but intense actions that disturb other guests are not allowed.)
• Please refrain from standing, jumping, hopping, thrashing, hitting objects, or watching the movie in the aisle during the screening.
• Avoid extreme statements, slander, abusive language, screaming, and spoilers related to the story. Please participate while being considerate of those around you. Other intense actions that may disturb others are also prohibited. If such actions are observed, you may be asked to leave the venue.
• If disruptive behavior is observed, theater staff will approach you. Please follow their instructions. If you do not comply, you will be asked to leave promptly. No refunds will be given if you are asked to leave, and the screening may also be canceled.

[Celebratory Illustrations]

▼ Special Birthday Illustration by Kouta Sannomiya

▼ Second Season Broadcast Announcement Illustration by Yusuke Nomura

[Giveaway Gifts]

■ Fourth Week Giveaway: Mini Art Boards Drawn by Yusuke Nomura (2 Types, Random – Yoichi Isagi and Rin Itoshi)

• Distribution Date: From Friday, May 10th

Notes:

• You cannot choose the specific illustration since it will be randomly distributed between the two types.
• Each person watching “BLUELOCK -EPISODE Nagi-” at the screening venue will receive one mini art board.
• Limited quantities are available per theater. Distribution will end once supplies run out, so please be aware.
• This is not a ticket purchase bonus. Gifts will not be distributed without entry to the screening.
• These gifts are not for sale. Resale, copying, reproduction, redistribution, or posting on social media is strictly prohibited.
• We cannot accept returns or exchanges for minor initial defects or scuffs that occur during production.
• These gifts are available for the standard version, IMAX version, 4DX version, and MX4D version. The giveaway gifts are limited in quantity.
• Distribution will end once the gifts run out.

[Work Information]

“BLUELOCK -EPISODE Nagi-” The Movie

<Story>
A genius only becomes one when someone discovers their talent––
Now, the ego of the genius striker Seishiro Nagi will set the world on fire!!

Seishiro Nagi, a second-year high school student who frequently says “It’s a hassle,” was living a life of indifference. That is until his classmate Reo Mikage, who dreams of winning the World Cup, discovered his talent. Nagi started playing soccer at Reo’s invitation, and his overwhelming soccer sense quickly shone through. One day, an invitation to the “Blue Prison (BLUELOCK)” project arrived.

Awaiting him were encounters with top-class strikers gathered from all over the country, including Yoichi Isagi, Meguru Bachira, and Rin Itoshi.

<Cast>
Seishiro Nagi: Nobunaga Shimazaki
Reo Mikage: Yuma Uchida
Zantetsu Tsurugi: Kazuyuki Okitsu
Yoichi Isagi: Kazuki Ura
Meguru Bachira: Tasuku Kaito
Rensuke Kunigami: Yuki Ono
Hyoma Chigiri: Soma Saito
Shoei Barou: Junichi Suwabe
Rin Itoshi: Koki Uchiyama
Ryō Narioka: Akira Kimura
Jinpachi Ego: Hiroshi Kamiya

<Staff>
Original Story: Muneyuki Kaneshiro
Manga: Kouta Sannomiya
Character Design: Yusuke Nomura (Serialized in Kodansha’s “Bessatsu Shonen Magazine”)
Director: Shunsuke Ishikawa
Composition & Script: Taku Kishimoto
Story Supervision: Muneyuki Kaneshiro
Character Design: Yuu Shindou, Sora Shimizu
Chief Animation Directors: Kenji Tanabe, Tomoko Mori, Sora Shimizu
Special Effects: Akane
Color Design: Sakura Komatsu
Art Setting & Director: Akira Hirozawa
Background Art: Creative Freaks
Director of Photography: Yasuhiro Asagi
Photography: Chiptune
3DCG: Aura Studio
Editing: Mai Hasegawa
Sound Director: Hiroyuki Gō
Sound Production: Bit Groove Promotion
Music: Jun Murayama
Theme Song: “Stormy” by Nissy×SKY-HI (MoooD Records/Bandai Namco Music Live)
Producers: Ryo Arisawa, Naoya Sato, Yusuke Kawakatsu, Hiroshi Yanai
Animation Producer: Hidenori Kosuge
Animation Production: 8bit
Distributor: Bandai Namco Filmworks

(C) Muneyuki Kaneshiro, Kouta Sannomiya, Yusuke Nomura, Kodansha / “BLUELOCK – The Movie” Production Committee

If you’re interested in this work, please check out the original comic here : https://amzn.to/3UfyPSV

Theatrical Edition of Blue Lock -EPISODE NAGI- to be Released in Spring 2024! Teaser Trailer and Visual Revealed