In exciting news for fans of heartfelt storytelling and mystery, Kusunoki no Bannin (The Keeper of the Camphor Tree ), the acclaimed novel by Keigo Higashino, is getting an anime movie adaptation! Production company Aniplex unveiled an official website for the project on Tuesday, along with a “super” teaser visual (pictured above) that has already sparked widespread anticipation. The highly anticipated film is set to premiere in 2026 , giving fans plenty of time to dive into the source material and prepare for what promises to be a cinematic masterpiece.
Directed by Tomohiko Itou , the creative mind behind hits like Sword Art Online and Boku dake ga Inai Machi (Erased ), the movie will be animated by renowned studio A-1 Pictures . Aniplex, known for its work on blockbuster anime franchises, will handle distribution, ensuring the project receives the attention it deserves.
About the Novel
Published by Jitsugyou no Nihonsha, Kusunoki no Bannin first hit shelves in hardcover in March 2020, followed by a paperback release in April 2023. The novel has sold over 1 million copies , cementing its place as a beloved work in Keigo Higashino’s repertoire. Known for his gripping narratives and emotional depth, Higashino’s latest adaptation is expected to resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
Synopsis: A Story of Redemption and Mystery
What would you do if you knew your time was limited? Who would you tell, and how would you leave your mark on the world?
Kusunoki no Bannin follows Reito Naoi , a young man in his early 20s who finds himself at rock bottom after being unjustly fired from his job. Consumed by anger and thoughts of revenge, Reito attempts to steal a valuable device from his former workplace—but his plan goes awry, leading to his arrest.
While in jail, Reito is visited by a lawyer with an unusual proposition: comply with the wishes of her client, and he’ll be granted his freedom. Desperate and with no other options, Reito agrees, only to discover that the lawyer’s client is none other than his aunt. When asked about his future plans, Reito admits he has none—prompting his aunt to give him a peculiar task: guard a camphor tree located on the grounds of a shrine.
As Reito takes on this seemingly mundane responsibility, he uncovers the mysterious legend surrounding the tree—a tale that intertwines with themes of life, death, and legacy. What begins as a simple act of custodianship soon evolves into a profound journey of self-discovery and redemption.
(Source: Little, Brown Book Group)
Why Fans Are Excited
With Tomohiko Itou at the helm, expectations are sky-high for Kusunoki no Bannin . Itou’s ability to weave emotional depth and suspense into his storytelling has earned him critical acclaim, making him the perfect choice to adapt Higashino’s novel. Additionally, A-1 Pictures’ reputation for high-quality animation ensures that the film will visually capture the novel’s poignant and mysterious atmosphere.
For those unfamiliar with Keigo Higashino’s work, his novels often explore complex human emotions and societal issues, blending them seamlessly with elements of mystery and drama. Kusunoki no Bannin is no exception, offering a narrative that is both thought-provoking and deeply moving.
Official Channels and Resources
Stay up-to-date with the latest news about the Kusunoki no Bannin anime movie by visiting the following links:
- Official Website: https://kusunoki-movie.com/
- Official X (formerly Twitter): @movie_kusunoki
- Novel Special Site: https://www.j-n.co.jp/higashinokeigo/
What to Expect in 2026
While details about the movie remain scarce, the combination of Keigo Higashino’s compelling story, Tomohiko Itou’s direction, and A-1 Pictures’ animation guarantees a memorable experience. Whether you’re a fan of the novel or new to the story, Kusunoki no Bannin is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated anime films of 2026.
