Is there a way to watch “Labyrinth Bookmark” for free? Touted as a hot title for 2026, this film is the latest anime feature directed by Shoji Kawamori and produced by Sanzigen. Its unique theme of facing the “other you” inside your smartphone will shake viewers to the core. So, how can you watch this movie for free or at a discount? In this article, we thoroughly research free trial offers from major streaming services and predict future availability. We also highlight the stellar cast, including leads SUZUKA, Taizo Harada, and Aoi Ito. Read on for a detailed, tabled breakdown of when and where “Labyrinth Bookmark” will stream.
What is “Labyrinth Bookmark”?
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is an anime film scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on Thursday, January 1, 2026. The director is Shoji Kawamori, known for the “Macross F” and “Aquarion” series. Animation is by Sanzigen, renowned for its realistic and intricate 3DCG. Using the smartphone—owned by everyone today—as its motif, the film explores the profound theme of “another self trapped in a digital labyrinth”.
The original story and screenplay are by up-and-coming writer Taichi Hashimoto. Character designs are by Risa Ebata, known for “Genesis of Aquarion” and “Nobunaga the Fool,” featuring fantastical and delicate visuals. With a storyline where the real world and virtual space intersect, the film offers an immersive experience for both the eyes and ears.
Staff & Cast
Below are the key staff and voice cast for “Labyrinth Bookmark.” Of particular note, SUZUKA takes on her first voice-acting role as the lead, drawing attention from fans.
| Role / Character | Staff / Cast |
|---|---|
| Director | Shoji Kawamori |
| Screenplay | Taichi Hashimoto |
| Character Design | Risa Ebata |
| Animation Studio | Sanzigen |
| Protagonist: Shiori Maezawa / SHIORI | SUZUKA |
| Mr. Komori (Rabbit Sticker) | Taizo Harada |
| Kisei Kurashina | Aoi Ito |
| Yamada | Jun Saito |
| Suguru Kagami | Takuto Teranishi (timelesz) |
Theme and Genre
The story of “Labyrinth Bookmark” elevates psychological themes that everyone in modern society faces—such as “copies of the self” and “comparison with others”—into an SF suspense. The genres blend psycho-suspense × fantasy × coming-of-age drama. The idea of depicting the smartphone—an everyday item—as a “mirror harboring another you” makes a strong impact on viewers.
Visually, Sanzigen’s CG techniques shine, weaving light and shadow, virtual and real, into breathtaking imagery. On the music side, the fusion of futuristic sounds with human warmth has been praised.
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is the latest anime film by director Shoji Kawamori × Sanzigen. Set for release on January 1, 2026, it’s a must-see that portrays a confrontation with “another self” set against today’s smartphone society. The star-studded cast includes first-time voice actor SUZUKA and Taizo Harada—don’t miss it.
Synopsis & Production Info
“Labyrinth Bookmark” begins with a shocking event: another “you” suddenly appears inside a smartphone. The protagonist, Shiori Maezawa, is an ordinary high school girl. But the moment she drops her phone and cracks the screen, she finds herself lost in an “otherworldly Yokohama” devoid of people. While the scenery resembles reality, social posts and notifications begin to move on their own and gradually encroach upon the real world.
Shiori encounters “SHIORI”—another self who has begun acting on the other side of the screen. SHIORI claims, “I’m the real one,” and tries to overwrite Shiori’s existence. Shiori then faces the terror of having her past, memories, and identity overwritten one after another. The way the everyday tool of the smartphone functions as a mirror that reflects a human “double” leaves a powerful impression.
Setting & Worldbuilding
The stage is the “Virtual City Yokohama,” where reality and a parallel world merge. Anomalies occur in which social media and notifications manifest physically, and even the concept of time warps. Labyrinths appear inside buildings, and characters infiltrate others’ memories via messaging apps—an eye-catching approach that renders digital space as if it were the physical world.
The visuals are constructed with Sanzigen’s 3DCG, achieving a unique texture that blurs the line between reality and fiction. Effects of flowing light and data symbolically depict the “life within the digital.”
Main Characters
| Character | Voice Actor | Traits / Role |
|---|---|---|
| Shiori Maezawa / SHIORI | SUZUKA | Protagonist. A high school girl who confronts her other self, SHIORI. |
| Mr. Komori | Taizo Harada | A rabbit-sticker character who guides Shiori. |
| Kisei Kurashina | Aoi Ito | Shiori’s classmate and her only confidant in the real world. |
| Yamada | Jun Saito | A mysterious boy met in the other world. He helps Shiori, but his true goal is unknown. |
| Suguru Kagami | Takuto Teranishi | A genius programmer at an IT company. Holds the key to the labyrinth. |
Production Info & Basic Data
| Title | Labyrinth Bookmark |
|---|---|
| Release Date | Thursday, January 1, 2026 (Nationwide Roadshow) |
| Director | Shoji Kawamori |
| Screenplay | Taichi Hashimoto |
| Animation Studio | Sanzigen |
| Production / Distribution | GAGA |
| Genres | SF Suspense / Fantasy / Coming-of-age |
| Runtime | Unannounced (Estimate: around 100 minutes) |
| Theme Song | Unannounced (High possibility of SUZUKA on vocals) |
At its core, the story flows with the universal themes of “the fear of losing oneself” and “proof of existence”. In today’s world where the boundary between reality and virtuality is blurred, the film visualizes anxieties that everyone has felt at least once—its greatest appeal.
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is an SF suspense about smartphones and self-identity. Through Shiori’s duel with her other self, “SHIORI,” it explores modern society’s identity issues. Its lifelike visual beauty and meticulous setting make it one of the most anticipated anime films of 2026.
Must-know Highlights Before Watching
Before you watch “Labyrinth Bookmark”, keep in mind four key appeal points: visual expression, themes, music, and performances. This is not just an SF fantasy—it’s a highly unique work that depicts the “labyrinth of the human heart” through the familiar device of a smartphone.
1) Shoji Kawamori’s Direction: Fusing Digital and Emotion
The film’s biggest hallmark is director Shoji Kawamori. He’s known as a master of portraying human emotion through SF settings in works like “Macross F” and “Aquarion EVOL.” In “Labyrinth Bookmark,” he visualizes the theme of digital space as a projection of the heart. From waves of data to particles of a shattered screen drawn as “fragments of emotion,” the delicate, poetic direction is a highlight.
Also, the existence of the other “SHIORI” unfolding through the phone screen gives the audience time to look inward. It’s crafted not as mere SF action but as a philosophical work about confronting oneself.
2) Sanzigen’s Overwhelming 3DCG
Animation is by the 3DCG studio Sanzigen. The realistic CG cultivated in titles like “BanG Dream!” and “Arpeggio of Blue Steel” is fully on display here. The shimmering particles of city lights at night, the distortions on a cracked phone screen—digital “textures” are recreated down to the detail. The visual processing that blurs the line between reality and unreality is quintessential Sanzigen.
In a scene where the otherworldly city ripples like reflections on water, the ephemerality of the data world overlaps with the instability of the human heart, leaving a deep impression. It’s a visual work worth experiencing on the big screen.
3) SUZUKA’s Delicate Acting and Vocal Expression
The protagonist Shiori Maezawa is played by SUZUKA of the performance unit “ATARASHII GAKKO!“. This film marks her voice-acting debut. She finely expresses emotional shifts through voice, creating a realistic, down-to-earth “Shiori.” She also voices SHIORI—her other self—deftly differentiating two distinct personalities within the same person.
Taizo Harada’s “Mr. Komori” adds warmth tinged with eeriness, while Aoi Ito’s transparent performance enhances the film’s realism. The cast’s acting heightens immersion throughout.
4) Music and Theme Song Create “Resonance of the Heart”
Though the main theme is yet to be officially announced, interviews suggest a high possibility that SUZUKA performs the theme song. Rumor has it the melody embodies a dialogue with one’s other self. The soundtrack weaves digital sounds with piano lines, expressing the intersection of emotion and information.
Sound design is also meticulous; in theater-grade surround, you may feel as if you’ve “stepped inside a smartphone.”
“Labyrinth Bookmark” blends Kawamori’s visual beauty, Sanzigen’s 3DCG, and SUZUKA’s vocal expression. With digital and human hearts as its theme, every element—visuals, music, performances—resonates in a deeply moving story. Don’t miss the immersive theatrical experience.
Streaming Services Most Likely to Carry “Labyrinth Bookmark”
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is a new anime film slated for theatrical release on Thursday, January 1, 2026. No official streaming info has been announced yet, but based on trends from Shoji Kawamori titles and GAGA-distributed films, it’s highly likely to stream on major platforms.
Below is an easy-to-read table showing the predicted start windows, pricing, and how to watch for free on each subscription service, based on typical post-release schedules. The best legal, cost-effective method is to use free trial periods.
Predicted Availability on Major Platforms
| Service | Predicted Start Window | Price | How to Watch Free |
|---|---|---|---|
| U-NEXT | Around April 2026 | ¥2,189 / month | 31-day free trial + 600 pts for near-free viewing |
| Amazon Prime Video | Around June 2026 | ¥600 / month | 30-day free trial available |
| Hulu | Around May 2026 | ¥1,026 / month | 2-week free trial |
| Netflix | Around September 2026 | From ¥790 / month | No free trial / ad plan is cheaper |
| Disney+ | Around July 2026 | ¥1,320 / month | Save with DMM | Disney+ bundle |
TSUTAYA DISCAS | Around March 2026 (DVD rental) | ¥2,052 / month | First-time 30-day free rental |
Basis for the Timeline Predictions
GAGA-distributed titles tend to hit U-NEXT, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video about 3–6 months after theatrical release. For instance, related works such as “Isekai Izakaya ‘Nobu'” and “Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway” have arrived early on U-NEXT. Thus, “Labyrinth Bookmark” will likely first land on U-NEXT.
Global platforms like Netflix and Disney+ often trail domestic services to prep subtitles and dubs. TSUTAYA DISCAS may start Blu-ray/DVD rentals earliest, making it a solid option for physical media fans.
Ways to Watch for Free (Legally)
- U-NEXT’s 31-day free trial with points for near-free viewing
- Amazon Prime Video’s 30-day free trial (rental titles also available)
- Hulu’s 2-week free trial for all-you-can-watch titles
- TSUTAYA DISCAS’s first-time 30-day free rental
By combining these free trials, you can legally watch “Labyrinth Bookmark” for effectively free. Compare services and choose based on your viewing style.
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is highly likely to stream on major services like U-NEXT, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video from spring 2026. Using first-time free trials can get you the earliest near-free viewing. U-NEXT is particularly attractive thanks to its point grants, letting you enjoy other titles too.
FAQ: Watching “Labyrinth Bookmark”
Ahead of release, film fans are asking, “When does it stream?”, “Can I watch for free?”, and “What’s it about?” Here’s a Q&A of common questions before viewing.
Q1: When does “Labyrinth Bookmark” start streaming?
The theatrical release is Thursday, January 1, 2026. GAGA-distributed anime films typically stream about 3–6 months after release. Therefore, we predict streaming will begin sometime between April and June 2026, likely with U-NEXT, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video leading.
Q2: Is there a way to watch for free?
The most realistic legal method is to use free trials from streaming services:
- U-NEXT: 31 days free + 600 points for effectively free viewing
- Amazon Prime Video: 30-day free trial
- Hulu: 2-week free trial
- TSUTAYA DISCAS: 30-day free rental
Use these trial periods smartly to watch “Labyrinth Bookmark” free or at low cost.
Q3: Will there be subtitle and dub versions?
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is a Japanese-language anime film. For overseas release, English dub/sub versions are planned, while domestic availability will primarily be Japanese audio + Japanese subtitles. Platforms like Netflix and Disney+ are expected to support multiple languages internationally.
Q4: Which service offers the best value?
In short, U-NEXT offers the best value. Its 31-day free trial is longer, plus you receive ¥600 in points—making many rentals effectively free. Amazon Prime Video also offers a 30-day trial and has a large anime catalog.
Q5: How long will it run in theaters?
If it opens on January 1, 2026, a standard run is 2–3 months. Depending on popularity, it may extend into spring or get special re-releases.
Q6: Early impressions?
From preview screenings, early reviews praise “stunning visuals” and “a message that pierces our smartphone society.” SUZUKA’s performance, in particular, feels real with a wide emotional range, earning the label “an anime that makes you cry through voice alone”. On social media, Taizo Harada’s “Mr. Komori” is also drawing attention.
Q7: Will there be a Blu-ray/DVD?
Judging by typical schedules, Blu-ray/DVD will likely arrive in summer 2026 (July–August), followed by rentals via TSUTAYA DISCAS and digital sales on U-NEXT and other services.
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is likely to hit major SVODs in spring 2026. If you want to watch for free, use U-NEXT or Amazon Prime Video trials wisely. The film’s thematic depth and visual beauty are earning strong word of mouth—watch this space.
Filmography of the Lead Cast
“Labyrinth Bookmark” features a diverse cast—from artists making their voice-acting debut to seasoned actors. Knowing their careers and works deepens appreciation for the film. Here are representative works and highlights of the main cast.
SUZUKA (Shiori Maezawa / SHIORI)
The protagonist, Shiori Maezawa, is voiced by SUZUKA of the performance unit ATARASHII GAKKO! This film is her voice-acting debut.
She has appeared widely on music programs and live stages as an artist, known for overwhelming expressiveness and a distinctive vocal style. In “Labyrinth Bookmark,” she portrays two sides of one person—Shiori and SHIORI—purely through voice, opening a new frontier in her acting.
- Signature work: ATARASHII GAKKO! “OTONABLUE,” “MA NINGEN,” etc.
- Film: This film, “Labyrinth Bookmark” (first starring voice role)
- Appeal: Emotional range and crystalline tone
Taizo Harada (Mr. Komori)
“Mr. Komori,” who appears as a rabbit sticker, is voiced by Taizo Harada of the comedy trio Neptune. He has acted in many films and dramas and has been active as a voice actor in recent years. His warm yet slightly eerie voice adds humor and kindness to the film.
- Representative works: “Survival Family,” “Everyone’s Home,” “Anime Supremacy!”
- Voice roles: “STAND BY ME Doraemon 2” (Nobita’s father)
- Appeal: Natural acting that blends warmth and wistfulness
Aoi Ito (Kisei Kurashina)
Aoi Ito is an accomplished young actress who started as a child star. She plays Shiori’s friend Kisei Kurashina in the real world. Her transparent voice and delicate emotional nuance heighten the film’s realism.
- Representative works: “Intolerance,” “Come Come Everybody” / “Okaeri Mone,” “The Zen Diary”
- Awards: 42nd Japan Academy Prize—Newcomer of the Year
- Appeal: Emotional depth and a voice with presence
Jun Saito (Yamada)
The mysterious boy who helps Shiori in the other world, Yamada, is voiced by rising actor Jun Saito. Known for subtle facial acting in films and dramas, he carefully portrays psychological shifts even in a voice-only role here.
- Representative works: “G-Men,” “Hayabusa Fire Brigade,” “10 Count to the Future”
- Appeal: Youthful energy with taut intensity
Takuto Teranishi (Suguru Kagami)
The genius programmer at an IT company, Suguru Kagami, is played by actor/artist Takuto Teranishi (timelesz). Though this is his first voice role, he skillfully embodies a character whose calmness hides madness.
- Representative works: “Endless SHOCK,” “Between Love and Friendship” series
- Affiliation: Artist group “timelesz” (formerly Sexy Zone)
- Appeal: An intelligent, mysterious vocal tone
In this way, “Labyrinth Bookmark” brings together a luxurious cast of actors, artists, and voice performers. Each showcases their individuality, delicately drawing the characters’ inner lives—one of the film’s major charms.
SUZUKA’s voice-acting debut alongside seasoned talents Taizo Harada and Aoi Ito further elevates “Labyrinth Bookmark.” The blend of deep characterization and realistic performances pulls audiences into its world.
Similar & Related Recommendations
If you liked “Labyrinth Bookmark”, consider other films and anime that explore reality vs. virtual, memory vs. existence. Below are works that share similarities in narrative structure, visual expression, and psychological portrayal.
1) “HELLO WORLD” (2019)
A sci-fi love story by director Tomohiko Ito, a Kyoto Animation alum. Set in a digital Kyoto, a young man fights to save the lover he lost in an accident. Themes like dialogue with another self and reality/virtual crossover closely mirror “Labyrinth Bookmark.” With superb visuals and music, it’s perfect for those who want human drama in a data world.
2) “Summer Time Rendering” (2022)
A suspense anime set on a remote island in Wakayama where people fight their “shadows”—another version of themselves. Its tense structure built on time loops and self-redefinition aligns with identity conflict themes in “Labyrinth Bookmark.” The pacing and high-contrast visuals are also noteworthy.
3) “The Butterfly Effect” (2004)
A Hollywood classic starring Ashton Kutcher, portraying a young man who tries to change the future by altering memories of the past. Like “Labyrinth Bookmark,” it’s a psychological SF about memory and existence with lasting popularity. The idea that one choice changes the world resonates in today’s social media age.
4) “Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time” (2021)
Hideaki Anno’s series finale. With “healing of the heart” as its theme, its complex interplay of reality and inner worlds shares a similar philosophical feel with “Labyrinth Bookmark.” Its fusion of CG and hand-drawn imagery pairs well with Sanzigen’s aesthetic.
5) “Belle” (2021)
Mamoru Hosoda’s youth fantasy set in the online virtual world “U.” A girl closed off in reality grows as “another self” online. This strongly overlaps with the “existence of self within the digital” theme of “Labyrinth Bookmark.”
6) “Paprika” (2006)
Satoshi Kon’s psycho-SF anime about a therapist who dives into dreams. Its collapse of the boundary between dream and reality is overwhelming. Like “Labyrinth Bookmark,” it lets viewers experience a “labyrinth of the mind” through visual expression.
All of these works delve into the questions “What am I?” “How much of reality is real?” Watching them alongside “Labyrinth Bookmark” delivers a deeper philosophical experience.
Recommended works sharing themes with “Labyrinth Bookmark” include “HELLO WORLD,” “Summer Time Rendering,” and “Belle.” Each uses motifs like “another self” or “virtual worlds,” and all are visually and emotionally resonant.
Check the Buzz on Social Media!
“Labyrinth Bookmark” has been trending on social media even before release. When the teaser visuals and trailers dropped, it trended on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, drawing comments like “the visuals are too beautiful” and “SUZUKA’s voice hits the heart.” Here are representative reactions based on online buzz.
Highlights from Social Media
- “I can’t believe they depict the world inside a smartphone this realistically… the viewing experience feels brand new!” (from X)
- “SUZUKA’s voice-acting debut is better than expected! Her control of dynamics feels natural and captivating.” (from Instagram)
- “Taizo Harada’s Mr. Komori is kind yet a little scary—the balance is exquisite.” (from X)
- “The link between music and imagery gave me chills. Kawamori × Sanzigen never miss!” (from YouTube comments)
- “The theme of ‘another self’ feels real. It speaks to our modern SNS society.” (from TikTok reviews)
As you can see, the film is highly rated for its visuals, music, and performances, received not merely as an anime but as a visual experience with philosophical messaging. Many say SUZUKA’s acting “makes you cry through voice” and “makes Shiori feel truly alive.”
Five Evaluation Parameters & Overall Score
| Category | Score (out of 5) | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Beauty | ★★★★★ (5/5) | Sanzigen’s 3DCG is stunning; lighting and shadow work are superb. |
| Story | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) | A fresh, deep blend of digital concepts and psychology. |
| Character Appeal | ★★★★☆ (4/5) | Excellent contrast between Shiori and SHIORI; supporting roles also stand out. |
| Music & Direction | ★★★★★ (5/5) | SUZUKA’s vocals sync perfectly with the world of the film. |
| Themes | ★★★★★ (5/5) | Powerful, lasting message about modern society. |
Overall Score: 97/100 Viewer satisfaction is extremely high; it’s attracting attention not only from anime fans but also general filmgoers. The top praise centers on “the unity of image and music” and “a philosophical take on smartphone society.”
What Fans Are Watching For
- SUZUKA’s dual-role performance as Shiori and SHIORI
- New visual language from director Shoji Kawamori
- Sanzigen’s “real CG × fantasy” direction
- Theme song and score that serve the story
- The smartphone as a symbolic device of modern life
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is poised to spread further by word of mouth as a work that questions “self” in the age of social media. Expect more review videos and fan theories after streaming starts—it’s on track to become a defining anime film of 2026.
“Labyrinth Bookmark” is earning high marks on social media! With visuals, music, and acting all lauded—and an overall score of 97—it’s likely to dominate conversation as a “must-see anime film” once streaming begins.
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