The universe of Shōtarō Ishinomori's legendary Cyborg 009 is set to expand with the upcoming anime Cyborg 009: Nemesis. Fans are buzzing with the latest casting announcements, which introduce pivotal characters and the skilled voice actors bringing them to life. This new iteration promises a fresh yet faithful take on the classic tale of augmented heroes battling a sinister global organization.
Iconic Mentors Join the Ranks
The newest revelations focus on two immensely important figures: Dr. Isaac Gilmore and Dr. Robert Golbert. Veteran voice actor Kazuhiro Yamaji steps into the shoes of Dr. Isaac Gilmore, a leading expert in bioengineering. Dr. Gilmore is famously known as the compassionate father figure to Cyborg 009, Joe Shimamura, and the rest of the 00 Cyborgs. His role is crucial, providing guidance and a moral compass to the team of cybernetic heroes.
Joining him is Tōru Nara as Dr. Robert Golbert, a brilliant and formidable nanotech expert. Dr. Golbert is the mind behind the advanced modifications of the Nemesis group, making him a central antagonist figure. His technological prowess ensures that the Nemesis cyborgs pose a significant challenge to the 00 Cyborgs, pushing the boundaries of cybernetic warfare and strategy.
The 00 Cyborgs and Their Nemesis
The core of the Cyborg 009 narrative revolves around the nine distinct cyborgs who rebel against their creators. Yūki Kaji leads the charge as the anime's main protagonist, Joe Shimamura, also known as Cyborg 009. He is joined by a stellar ensemble cast for the other 00 Cyborgs:
- Yuu Hayashi as Cyborg 008/Pyunma
- Kentarō Tone as Cyborg 007/Great Britain
- Mitsuaki Kanuka as Cyborg 006/Chang Changku
- Hiroki Yasumoto as Cyborg 005/Geronimo Junior
- Tomokazu Sugita as Cyborg 004/Albert Heinrich
- Saori Hayami as Cyborg 003/Francois Alnul
- Mamoru Miyano as Cyborg 002/Jet Link
- Junko Minagawa as Cyborg 001/Ivan Whiskey
Facing off against these heroes is the formidable Nemesis group, each with unique powers and a dedicated cast:
- Yūichi Nakamura as Graviton / Nemesis 009
- Ayane Sakura as Deps / Nemesis 008
- Maaya Uchida as Morphone / Nemesis 007
- Shion Wakayama as Blitz / Nemesis 006
- Tetsu Inada as Aspida / Nemesis 005
- Kikuko Inoue as Opro / Nemesis 004
- Hiroshi Kamiya as Crack / Nemesis 003
- Yoshimasa Hosoya as Blizzard / Nemesis 002
- Rina Hidaka as Mu / Nemesis 001
A Classic Tale Reimagined
Cyborg 009: Nemesis delves into the classic premise established by Ishinomori. A nefarious global organization known as Black Ghost seeks to plunge the world into perpetual conflict. To achieve this, Black Ghost captures individuals and transforms them into cybernetic soldiers. However, nine of these augmented individuals rebel against their creators, choosing to fight for peace and freedom.
The anime is being directed by Hideki Ambo at Arect, promising a dynamic visual experience. The screenplay is crafted by Atsuhiro Tomioka, known for his work on Pokémon, and CHARATEX, ensuring a compelling narrative. Character designs are handled by sanorin, who will undoubtedly bring a fresh aesthetic to the beloved characters while respecting their iconic looks.
Honoring the Legacy
Adding to the anticipation, singer Kyōko from the renowned rock band Barbee Boys will perform the theme song, "Taga Tame ni" (For Whom). This is a significant nod to the franchise's history, as the song was originally featured in the 1979 Cyborg 009 television anime series. The original track was performed by Ken Narita and Koorogi '73, with lyrics penned by Ishinomori himself, creating a powerful link between past and present iterations.
The Cyborg 009 franchise boasts a rich history, beginning with Shōtarō Ishinomori's original manga launch in July 1964. It has inspired numerous adaptations over the decades, including television anime series in 1968, 1979, and 2001, as well as films in 1966, 1967, and 1980. More modern entries include the 009 Re:Cyborg movie in 2012, Cyborg 009 Call of Justice in 2016, and a crossover OVA with Devilman in 2015. The legacy continues with ongoing manga, such as Tsuguo Okazaki's Cyborg 009 Bgooparts Delete and the recently launched Cyborg 009 Taiheiyō no Bōrei (Cyborg 009: Ghost of the Pacific) by Masaki Tsuji and Masato Hayase.
Fans can look forward to Cyborg 009: Nemesis streaming this summer, ready to immerse themselves in a world where cybernetic heroes fight for the future against powerful adversaries. The blend of a classic narrative, a talented cast, and a respectful nod to its enduring legacy makes this anime a highly anticipated release.
