On the 27th, at Netflix’s new lineup presentation event “Next on Netflix 2026” held in Tokyo, it was announced that the new anime Sparks of Tomorrow, based on the original novel Sparks of Tomorrow (JP: JP: 二十世紀電氣目録-ユーレカ・エヴリカ-, Nijusseiki Denki Mokuroku) by Hiroshi Yuki and published under KA Esuma Bunko by Kyoto Animation, will be released worldwide as a Netflix exclusive this July.
©Hiro Yuki, Kyoto Animation/Sparks of Tomorrow Production Committee
The story follows the dreams and rebirth of young people connected to an animation studio, set in an alternative version of early 20th century Kyoto that has evolved differently from real history. In this world, steam engines have developed abnormally, while electricity remains only a distant dream. The narrative centers on Kihachi Sakamoto, a distrustful boy who lost his brother, who once dreamed of an age of electricity together with him. Kihachi is voiced by Yuma Uchida. Alongside him is Inako Momokawa, a devout girl who lives while quietly holding her future aspirations and unresolved feelings toward her late mother. Inako is voiced by Sora Amamiya. Their encounter is triggered by the hidden secrets surrounding the illustrated book titled “Twentieth Century Electricity Catalog.”
Kihachi Sakamoto from Sparks of Tomorrow ©Hiro Yuki, Kyoto Animation/Sparks of Tomorrow Production Committee
A Visually Ambitious Work That Redefines Kyoto Animation’s Artistic Approach
Inako Momokawa from Sparks of Tomorrow ©Hiro Yuki, Kyoto Animation/Sparks of Tomorrow Production Committee
The series draws attention for its bold art direction, inspired by Impressionist painting, combined with Kyoto Animation’s signature meticulous animation techniques. Particular emphasis has been placed on the depiction of the characters’ eyes. Rather than relying on digital processing, the production team pursued an approach that conveys light purely through color expression.
©Hiro Yuki, Kyoto Animation/Sparks of Tomorrow Production Committee
Director Minoru Ohta commented on the project, stating that the work is set in an if version of Kyoto in Japan, where steam engines have evolved beyond reason, and portrays young people striving to live with determination. He explained that the entire core staff embraced the challenge of delivering expressions never seen before, approaching the project with intense passion in order to present something new to anime fans.
©Hiro Yuki, Kyoto Animation/Sparks of Tomorrow Production Committee
Ohta further noted that while background art is typically designed not to overpower the characters, this production deliberately enhances the presence of its backgrounds. Although the process was difficult and required repeated attempts, he believes the result achieved scenes where the art and characters elevate one another. He added that production is now entering its final stages, with staff members and voice actors alike breathing life into the work. According to Ohta, the series represents a new frontier for Kyoto Animation and is expected to resonate deeply with viewers, carrying the studio’s passion from Kyoto to audiences around the world.
©Hiro Yuki, Kyoto Animation/Sparks of Tomorrow Production Committee
Staff
Director: Minoru Ohta
Series Composition: Tatsuhiko Urahata
Character Design and Chief Animation Director: Kohei Okamura
Worldbuilding Design: Takaaki Suzuki
Music: Hitomi Koto
Animation Production: Kyoto Animation
Cast
Yuma Uchida (Kihachi Sakamoto) ©Hiro Yuki, Kyoto Animation/Sparks of Tomorrow Production Committee
Kihachi Sakamoto: Yuma Uchida
Sora Amamiya (Inako Momokawa) ©Hiro Yuki, Kyoto Animation/Sparks of Tomorrow Production Committee
Inako Momokawa: Sora Amamiya
Teaser PV
Source : ORICON NEWS
AloJapan.com