CloverWorks has revealed the star-studded cast and character details for its original omnibus anime film Grotesqqque (previously titled Grotesque), which will open in 2026. The film brings together 14 actors including several Nogizaka46 members in a three-part anthology directed by Atsushi Nishigori (THE iDOLM@STER, Darling in the FRANXX).
Key Announcement Details
Atsushi Nishigori is directing, writing the screenplay, and designing characters for the film. The omnibus format presents three distinct stories with different worldviews:
“Aeliens” — featuring characters Ellie and Kento Kurikura.
“4649 Girl” (pronounced “Yoroshiku★Shojo”) — a pun title meaning “Nice to Meet You★Girl,” featuring characters Stella, Unknown (Nanashi), Hikarin, Gorgeous Mika, Sword, Chiffon, Papico, and Poyomi.
“Nocturne: Kono Grotesque na Yoru ni” — featuring characters Ayame, Shion, Momo, and Canna.
The full cast list includes (character assignments not yet specified): Chika Anzai, Kana Ichinose, Miku Ichinose (Nogizaka46), Nagi Inoue (Nogizaka46), Maaya Uchida, Rumi Okubo, Rie Kugimiya, Nao Tomisato (Nogizaka46), Miyu Tomita, Aruno Nakanishi (Nogizaka46), Ikumi Hasegawa, Saori Hayami, Gen Hoshino, and Sara Minami.
The film comes from JOEN, the company jointly established by Sony media subsidiary Aniplex, its CloverWorks animation studio, Production I.G sister company Wit Studio, and publisher Shueisha.
Community Reception
The cast announcement has generated considerable buzz on social media, particularly for the inclusion of four Nogizaka46 members (Miku Ichinose, Nagi Inoue, Nao Tomisato, Aruno Nakanishi) alongside established voice acting veterans like Rie Kugimiya and Saori Hayami. Singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino’s inclusion also drew attention from music fans. The omnibus format and the enigmatic story descriptions have sparked speculation among anime fans about the film’s themes and tone.
What This Means
Grotesqqque represents CloverWorks’ continued push into original film productions following acclaimed series like Spy x Family and Bocchi the Rock!. The JOEN production structure — connecting Aniplex, CloverWorks, Wit Studio, and Shueisha — signals a significant investment in original anime IP. The film’s 2026 release window puts it alongside several other high-profile original anime films in what is shaping up to be a landmark year for theatrical anime.