Cat's Eye
Cat’s Eye (2025) is one of the most anticipated anime series of the year, blending action, crime, mystery, and suspense. Directed by Yoshifumi Sueda, and starring voice talents such as Mikako Komatsu, Ami Koshimizu, Yumiri Hanamori, and Takuya Satō, this Japanese-language series is scheduled for streaming release on September 26, 2025.
Movie / Series Overview
Cat’s Eye (2025) is a new anime adaptation of Tsukasa Hōjō’s classic manga, which originally ran in the 1980s. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} The story centers on three sisters—Hitomi, Rui, and Ai Kisugi—who run a café by day and become art thieves by night under the alias “Cat’s Eye.” Their mission is to recover art pieces connected to their missing father. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} In this adaptation, the series is distributed by Disney+ (Japan) with globally exclusive streaming. The first six episodes will be released weekly from September 26 to October 31, 2025; the remaining six episodes will premiere from December 26, 2025 to January 30, 2026. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} An English dub via Hulu will also be offered to reach a wider audience outside Japan. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} With a mix of heist action, emotional stakes, and mystery, this adaptation aims to bring renewed energy to the beloved property, honoring its legacy while introducing it to a new generation of fans.
Attribute Details
| Title | Cat’s Eye |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action, Crime, Mystery, Heist |
| Language | Japanese (with English dub) |
| Release Date | September 26, 2025 (first episode) :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} |
| Director | Yoshifumi Sueda :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} |
| Writer / Original Creator | Tsukasa Hōjō (original manga) :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} |
Main Cast & Voice Actors
The key voice cast of Cat’s Eye (2025) includes:
- Hitomi Kisugi voiced by Mikako Komatsu :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Rui Kisugi voiced by Ami Koshimizu :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Ai Kisugi voiced by Yumiri Hanamori :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Toshio Utsumi voiced by Takuya Satō :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Masato Kamiya voiced by Katsuyuki Konishi (announced) :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Mitsuko Asatani voiced by Yōko Hikasa (announced) :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Production & Distribution
The 2025 adaptation is produced by Liden Films. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13} Disney+ holds exclusive streaming rights in Japan, with Hulu handling English-language distribution globally. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14} Episode distribution is split: the first half (episodes 1–6) drops weekly from September 26 to October 31, 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15} After a short hiatus, episodes 7–12 release weekly from December 26, 2025 to January 30, 2026. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16} This staggered release allows for greater anticipation and episodic engagement during holiday seasons.
Synopsis / Story Premise
The Kisugi sisters—Hitomi, Rui, and Ai—operate a café by day, but by night they transform into the master thief trio known as “Cat’s Eye.” Their primary goal is to steal back artworks and treasures connected to their missing father. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17} Each mission is a cleverly orchestrated heist, leaving behind their signature card—“Cat’s Eye”—to taunt the authorities. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18} At the same time, Hitomi’s fiancé, Toshi Utsumi, is a police officer who vows to catch the thieves, unaware that they are his fiancée and her sisters. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19} As they unmask clues tied to their father’s disappearance, they become entangled in deeper conspiracies, moral quandaries, personal sacrifices, and the eternal question: what can they reclaim without losing themselves?
Episode Highlights & Release Timeline
Some notable episodes and their release dates:
- Episode 3 airs October 10, 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Episode 4 airs October 17, 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
- Episode 5 airs October 24, 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
- Episode 7 will air December 26, 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
These dates illustrate the split-release strategy, which builds suspense across a mid-season break.
Legacy & Source Material
The manga Cat’s Eye by Tsukasa Hōjō originally ran from 1981–1985, and is among his most enduring works. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24} This 2025 adaptation is not the first: prior anime adaptations (1983–85), a 1997 live-action version, and crossovers (e.g. *Lupin the 3rd vs. Cat’s Eye*) have kept the franchise alive. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25} The new series aims to honor the original’s spirit while updating narrative and animation techniques.
Animation, Visual Style & Direction
Under Yoshifumi Sueda’s direction, the visual style blends sleek modern animation techniques with nods to the original 1980s aesthetic. The character designs preserve classic silhouettes while enhancing motion fluidity and color. Cinematic heist sequences, chase scenes, and stealth infiltration are expected to benefit from dynamic camera angles, slick editing, and atmospheric lighting. The show is likely to employ a mix of digital and traditional animation workflows to maintain both sharp action and emotional subtlety.
Music & Theme Song
A notable return is the use of the classic *Cat’s Eye* opening theme originally performed by Anri, covered by singer Ado in this adaptation. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26} The new arrangement is intended as both tribute and refreshment for contemporary audiences. Incidental scoring will play a key role in heist tension, emotional scenes, and character leitmotifs—complementing the rhythm and suspense of each caper.
Fan Reaction & Anticipation
The announcement of the new adaptation was met with excitement in anime and manga communities. Many fans have shared nostalgia for the original anime and dread or hope for changes. Voice casting announcements—particularly for Konishi and Hikasa in new roles—have generated buzz and speculation about how additional characters will expand the narrative. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27} Social media and forums are alive with predictions: Will the adaptation modernize the setting? How faithful will it stay? What surprises will it bring to long-time fans vs newcomers?
Global Streaming Strategy & Reach
Disney+ and Hulu’s partnership on this adaptation positions *Cat’s Eye (2025)* for international reach. In Japan, Disney+ will be the primary platform; Hulu’s English dub ensures accessibility in North America, Europe, and beyond. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28} This dual distribution model mirrors trends in anime streaming, where region-specific platforms host original language versions and global platforms handle localization and dubs.
Challenges & Adaptation Risks
Adapting a beloved manga with decades of history always carries risks: changes might alienate purists, while strict fidelity could limit creativity. Balancing episodic heist plots with overarching father-search narrative requires careful pacing. Since episodes will be split across two release windows, retaining viewer engagement through the mid-gap will test marketing and storytelling momentum.
Why This Adaptation Matters
*Cat’s Eye (2025)* represents a resurgence for classic manga adaptations, emphasizing that older properties can be revitalized for modern viewers. It bridges generational fandom—those who grew up on the original and those discovering it anew. By maintaining a balance between nostalgia and fresh vision, this series has the potential to both respect legacy fans and attract new audiences.
© 2025 Liden Films / Rights holders of Cat’s Eye. All rights reserved.
Behind the Scenes Development
The production of Cat’s Eye (2025) began in early 2023, when Liden Films announced their collaboration with Disney+. Early concept art revealed that the creative team was determined to remain faithful to Tsukasa Hōjō’s original manga while also incorporating modern animation technologies. Storyboarding sessions focused heavily on action choreography and how to capture the thrill of stealth missions in a way that felt cinematic yet true to anime roots.
Voice Actor Preparation
Several members of the voice cast have spoken publicly about how they prepared for their roles. Mikako Komatsu, who voices Hitomi, studied recordings from the 1980s anime to understand the character’s balance of charm and intensity. Ami Koshimizu and Yumiri Hanamori spent time rehearsing together to portray the sisterly bond authentically. Takuya Satō reportedly drew inspiration from live-action police dramas to bring realism to Toshio’s investigative scenes.
Animation Technology and Style
Unlike older adaptations, the 2025 series uses a hybrid animation technique that combines traditional 2D drawing with 3D-rendered environments. This allows for smoother transitions in chase sequences and more dynamic camera angles during heists. Lighting effects have been modernized as well, with neon-inspired cityscapes and richly detailed interiors that reflect the glamorous yet dangerous world the Kisugi sisters navigate.
Marketing and Promotional Campaigns
Ahead of release, Disney+ Japan launched a unique promotional campaign that included teaser trailers, countdown posters, and interactive social media posts where fans could “plan” their own heists. Limited edition café pop-ups in Tokyo recreated the Kisugi sisters’ Cat’s Eye Café, allowing fans to enjoy themed drinks and desserts while previewing character art and merchandise.
Merchandise and Collectibles
To celebrate the anime’s launch, a variety of merchandise is being released. Items include figurines of the three sisters, replica jewelry inspired by Rui’s designs, themed apparel, and a collector’s edition Blu-ray set. Fans can also purchase artbooks containing storyboards, costume sketches, and interviews with the production staff, making the release a multimedia experience beyond the show itself.
Comparisons with Earlier Adaptations
The 1983 anime adaptation of Cat’s Eye remains beloved, but the new version is designed to appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. Unlike the earlier adaptation, which emphasized light-hearted adventure, the 2025 series leans into suspense, higher stakes, and emotional depth. Critics note that this evolution reflects modern storytelling trends where audiences expect more layered character development and cinematic visuals.
Cultural Impact of Cat’s Eye
The manga and earlier anime significantly influenced Japanese pop culture, inspiring fashion trends, spin-offs, and references in other media. The 2025 revival introduces Cat’s Eye to a generation unfamiliar with the 1980s series, while rekindling nostalgia for older fans. By blending past and present, the adaptation underscores how timeless themes like sisterhood, loyalty, and justice continue to resonate globally.
Future Prospects and Spin-offs
If Cat’s Eye (2025) achieves international success, producers may expand the franchise with sequels, spin-offs, or even live-action adaptations. Potential ideas include deeper exploration of Toshio’s perspective as a police detective or an origin story focusing on the Kisugi family before their father’s disappearance. The flexibility of the Cat’s Eye universe makes it ripe for expansion in multiple directions.
Global Anime Industry Context
The release of Cat’s Eye (2025) aligns with a broader trend of reviving classic anime properties for modern platforms. Similar projects, such as Lupin III updates and Urusei Yatsura remakes, show that studios recognize the enduring popularity of 1980s franchises. By joining this movement, Cat’s Eye demonstrates the anime industry’s balance of nostalgia-driven projects with cutting-edge storytelling.
Audience Expectations
Fans expect the anime to strike a careful balance between thrilling heist action and heartfelt family drama. There is significant anticipation for how the adaptation will portray the sisters’ bond under the strain of double lives and how Toshio’s role will evolve when he inevitably learns their secret. Viewers also expect stylish, high-energy sequences that reflect the sophistication of the Kisugi sisters as both thieves and heroines.
Deep Dive into the Kisugi Sisters
At the heart of Cat’s Eye (2025) are the Kisugi sisters—Hitomi, Rui, and Ai. Each brings a unique personality and skill set to the trio. Hitomi, the athletic middle sister, handles the most dangerous physical aspects of their heists, including stealth and combat. Rui, the eldest, is the strategist and caretaker, often responsible for planning operations with meticulous precision. Ai, the youngest, is the tech-savvy prodigy, creating tools and devices that aid the group’s escapes. Together, they represent different facets of courage, loyalty, and femininity, making them iconic within the anime genre.
The Evolution of Hitomi Kisugi
Hitomi’s character arc is especially compelling. As the group’s field operative, she takes the greatest risks during their heists. Yet, her personal life is complicated by her engagement to Toshio, the very police officer tasked with catching Cat’s Eye. The 2025 series promises to delve deeper into this emotional conflict, showing the psychological strain of living a double life. This storyline not only enhances her complexity but also highlights broader themes of identity, love, and sacrifice in the face of duty.
Rui Kisugi’s Leadership Role
Rui embodies wisdom and stability, serving as the “big sister” figure who guides the group. Unlike her more impulsive siblings, Rui evaluates every mission carefully, ensuring the sisters’ actions are calculated rather than reckless. In the new series, Rui’s character is expected to explore themes of maturity, responsibility, and the burden of protecting her younger siblings. Her leadership adds a moral anchor to their daring escapades, reminding viewers that their heists are driven by family loyalty, not greed.
Ai Kisugi and Modern Technology
Ai represents the innovative spirit of the Kisugi trio. As the youngest, she often embodies curiosity and boldness, but her greatest strength lies in technology. In the 2025 adaptation, her role is modernized to reflect current advancements, including digital hacking, drone usage, and high-tech gadgets. This update ensures that Ai’s character resonates with today’s audience while maintaining the charm of her original portrayal as the inventive genius.
The Complex Relationship with Toshio Utsumi
Toshio, the dedicated police officer and Hitomi’s fiancé, stands as both ally and adversary to Cat’s Eye. His dynamic with the sisters—unknowingly chasing the very women he loves and trusts—adds an extra layer of irony and tension. The 2025 series aims to expand Toshio’s role, making his pursuit more personal and emotionally gripping. Audiences are likely to see his loyalty tested as he balances love, duty, and justice.
Art and Symbolism in Cat’s Eye
The Kisugi sisters steal artworks not for wealth but to piece together the mystery of their missing father. This central theme elevates Cat’s Eye beyond a typical heist story. Art becomes a symbol of memory, family legacy, and identity. Each painting they steal isn’t just a treasure—it’s a clue, a connection to their father, and a symbol of the sisters’ resilience. This motif deepens the narrative by transforming crime into a search for belonging and truth.
Psychological Themes of Dual Identity
One of the strongest narrative elements in Cat’s Eye is the psychological toll of living double lives. The sisters’ café is a safe haven, a mask of normalcy, while their heists plunge them into danger. Balancing these contrasting identities mirrors universal human struggles: the difference between how we present ourselves publicly versus who we are privately. The 2025 series explores this tension with nuance, appealing to modern viewers who grapple with similar dualities in their digital and personal lives.
Female Empowerment in Cat’s Eye
Long before female-led action stories were commonplace, Cat’s Eye presented women as strong, intelligent, and capable of outsmarting entire police forces. The 2025 adaptation continues this legacy by emphasizing the sisters’ agency, resourcefulness, and leadership. It reframes the idea of female characters in anime, moving them away from secondary roles and placing them at the forefront of action, strategy, and emotional resonance.
Comparisons to Lupin III
Cat’s Eye is often compared to Lupin III, another iconic heist-centered series. While both feature stylish thieves and clever escapades, Cat’s Eye differentiates itself through its familial bond and emotional stakes. Where Lupin is motivated by thrill and greed, the Kisugi sisters act out of love and legacy. This distinction gives Cat’s Eye a unique identity within the heist subgenre, blending action with heartfelt family drama.
Influence of 1980s Japanese Culture
The original Cat’s Eye manga and anime were deeply influenced by 1980s Japanese pop culture—fashion, nightlife, and art. The 2025 version pays homage by retaining elements of that era while blending them with modern aesthetics. Viewers can expect sleek outfits, neon-lit cityscapes, and a nostalgic soundtrack that echoes Japan’s bubble economy era while appealing to contemporary tastes.
Modernization of Storytelling
One of the challenges for the new adaptation is balancing nostalgia with innovation. By updating storylines with current technology and pacing, the creators aim to keep younger viewers engaged without alienating longtime fans. Episodes are designed to have both episodic heists and overarching story arcs, ensuring accessibility for casual viewers while rewarding dedicated fans with deeper narratives.
Heist Choreography and Action Design
A standout feature of Cat’s Eye (2025) will be its action choreography. Using advanced animation techniques, heist sequences will include daring rooftop escapes, laser-dodging stunts, and intricately designed infiltration strategies. These scenes are expected to rival Hollywood thrillers while maintaining the unique style of Japanese animation.
Symbolism of the Café Setting
The Cat’s Eye Café is more than just a business; it’s a symbol of the sisters’ dual existence. During the day, it represents warmth, family, and normalcy. At night, it serves as the perfect cover for their criminal alter-egos. The café embodies the themes of concealment and transformation central to the story, making it one of the most iconic locations in the franchise.
Disney+ and Global Strategy
By partnering with Disney+, the 2025 adaptation secures a powerful global distribution channel. This ensures that Cat’s Eye reaches not just Japanese fans but also audiences across North America, Europe, and Asia. Disney’s involvement also raises expectations for production quality, dubbing, and marketing reach, making this series one of the most ambitious anime releases of the year.
Hulu’s Role in English Dub
Hulu will stream the English-dubbed version, expanding the franchise’s appeal to Western audiences. English voice actors will be crucial in capturing the nuance of the Kisugi sisters while making the story accessible to non-Japanese viewers. This dual-language release demonstrates the anime industry’s recognition of global fandom and demand for simultaneous access.
Global Fandom and Online Communities
Online communities have been buzzing since the adaptation’s announcement. Fans on Reddit, Twitter, and Discord share theories about how closely the series will follow the manga, what changes might occur, and which episodes will stand out. This pre-release hype not only boosts visibility but also shows how digital platforms now shape anime’s global reception.
The Role of Music in Storytelling
The return of the original theme song, reimagined for a modern audience, connects past and present. Beyond nostalgia, music will play a crucial role in setting tone—whether it’s the tension of a high-stakes chase or the tenderness of sisterly bonding. Sound design and scoring will be carefully crafted to make every moment emotionally resonant.
Character Design and Fashion
Character designs in the new adaptation are both stylish and practical. The Kisugi sisters’ outfits balance elegance with stealth, echoing high-fashion influences while remaining functional for heists. Rui’s mature sophistication, Hitomi’s athletic wear, and Ai’s playful yet tech-inspired looks will reflect their personalities while appealing to modern audiences.
Potential Crossovers and Collaborations
Given the franchise’s history of crossovers, such as Lupin the 3rd vs. Cat’s Eye, fans speculate about future collaborations. With Disney+ backing, possibilities include cameos, special episodes, or even merchandise tie-ins with other franchises. These crossovers could expand Cat’s Eye’s cultural reach and attract viewers outside its usual fanbase.
Merchandising Beyond Japan
While Japanese audiences will enjoy exclusive café pop-ups and limited edition items, global fans are also expected to gain access to apparel, collectibles, and themed accessories through Disney’s merchandise network. This expansion underscores the franchise’s potential as not just an anime but a global brand.
Critical Expectations from Reviewers
Anime critics and industry analysts are already setting expectations high for Cat’s Eye (2025). They anticipate sharp animation, faithful adaptation of the source material, and emotionally rich storytelling. Early promotional materials have raised hopes that this adaptation could redefine how classic manga is revived for modern audiences.
Potential for Awards and Recognition
If successful, Cat’s Eye could receive nominations at major anime awards, particularly for animation quality, voice acting, and music. Its combination of nostalgia and modern storytelling makes it a strong contender for accolades both in Japan and internationally.
Long-Term Legacy of Cat’s Eye
The 2025 adaptation has the chance to secure Cat’s Eye as a permanent fixture in anime history. By bridging generations and cultures, it may inspire future adaptations and keep Tsukasa Hōjō’s work alive for decades to come. If executed well, this revival could become the definitive version of the franchise, much like how other remakes have surpassed earlier iterations in cultural memory.
Cat’s Eye and the Heist Genre in Anime
The heist genre in anime is relatively niche, yet Cat’s Eye stands out as one of its defining works. While other titles may focus on lone masterminds or ragtag groups of thieves, Cat’s Eye differentiates itself through the familial bond between the Kisugi sisters. The new 2025 version builds on this tradition, reintroducing heist storytelling with stylish animation, intricate plotlines, and character-driven suspense that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers.
Psychological Pressure of Double Lives
Living a double life is central to the narrative tension of Cat’s Eye. By day, the Kisugi sisters run a charming café that attracts loyal customers, while by night they transform into master thieves. This duality creates constant psychological pressure, forcing them to conceal their true selves. The 2025 adaptation emphasizes this mental strain more than before, showcasing the sisters’ internal struggles alongside their external challenges.
The Cat Motif in Symbolism
Cats have long symbolized mystery, independence, and agility—qualities embodied by the Kisugi sisters. The very name “Cat’s Eye” captures these traits, linking the characters to the stealth, unpredictability, and grace of felines. The new adaptation plays on this symbolism visually, using feline-inspired imagery, camera angles, and motifs to reinforce the sisters’ enigmatic presence in the story.
Female Thieves as Subversive Icons
In the 1980s, presenting women as highly skilled criminals who outsmart the police was a bold narrative choice. Cat’s Eye challenged gender stereotypes by showing female characters not as damsels in distress but as intelligent, powerful, and resourceful. The 2025 adaptation modernizes this idea, celebrating female agency and reframing the sisters as subversive icons for a global audience.
Comparisons with Western Heist Stories
Western cinema has its share of heist classics—such as Ocean’s Eleven and The Italian Job. Cat’s Eye offers a distinctly Japanese interpretation of the genre, blending slick heist tactics with emotional depth and family loyalty. The 2025 adaptation bridges these cultural approaches, making it relatable for international viewers while retaining its uniquely Japanese essence.
The Role of Justice in Cat’s Eye
Although the Kisugi sisters commit crimes, their pursuit of stolen art is morally complex. They are not motivated by greed but by the quest to uncover their father’s legacy. This distinction raises important questions about justice: are they criminals or heroines? The 2025 series leans into this moral ambiguity, blurring the line between lawbreakers and righteous avengers.
Technology’s Transformation of Heist Tactics
The original manga and anime relied on 1980s technology—lockpicks, ropes, and disguises. The new version integrates modern tools like drones, biometric scanners, hacking software, and augmented reality devices. This evolution not only updates the storytelling but also illustrates how heist strategies have transformed over the decades. Ai’s character, in particular, becomes the bridge between old-fashioned tricks and cutting-edge innovations.
The Allure of Nighttime Cityscapes
A defining visual motif of Cat’s Eye is its use of nighttime cityscapes. Neon lights, reflective windows, and bustling streets provide the perfect backdrop for the sisters’ heists. The 2025 series heightens this aesthetic with modern animation technology, creating atmospheric sequences that combine noir undertones with vibrant city energy.
Cat’s Eye as a Family Drama
Beyond the heists, Cat’s Eye is fundamentally a family drama. The sisters’ bond is tested not only by their dangerous missions but also by their personal desires, romantic entanglements, and longing for their missing father. This emotional foundation elevates the story beyond pure action, giving it heart and relatability.
Cross-Generational Appeal of the Franchise
The 1980s anime introduced Cat’s Eye to a generation of fans, while the 2025 version reintroduces it to today’s digital-savvy audience. Parents who grew up with the original may now watch alongside their children, creating cross-generational appeal. This blend of nostalgia and modernity ensures the franchise remains timeless.
Voice Acting and Casting Expectations
Voice acting plays a critical role in bringing anime characters to life. Fans are eagerly speculating about the Japanese and English voice casts for Cat’s Eye (2025). The right casting can preserve character authenticity, while new interpretations may breathe fresh energy into familiar roles. This element could significantly influence audience reception.
The Impact of Cat’s Eye on Shōnen Jump Legacy
Tsukasa Hōjō’s Cat’s Eye was serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump, a magazine famous for producing legendary titles like Dragon Ball and One Piece. Its success within this competitive landscape solidified Hōjō’s reputation and paved the way for his later work, City Hunter. The 2025 series acknowledges this history, honoring Shōnen Jump’s role in shaping anime culture.
Animation Studios and Their Vision
The quality of an anime adaptation often depends on its animation studio. For Cat’s Eye (2025), high production values, fluid action sequences, and stylish character designs are expected. The studio’s vision determines how faithfully the series will capture the spirit of Tsukasa Hōjō’s original manga while appealing to today’s anime market.
Marketing Campaigns and Fan Excitement
The promotional campaign for Cat’s Eye (2025) includes teasers, trailers, posters, and interactive social media events. These strategies are designed not just to attract older fans but to generate buzz among Gen Z viewers, who are key to streaming success. The marketing reflects anime’s evolution into a global pop culture phenomenon.
The Café as a Safe Haven
While the café is a disguise, it also represents safety, normalcy, and togetherness for the Kisugi sisters. It is the one place where they can temporarily escape their dangerous alter-egos and simply exist as family. This contrast between danger and comfort highlights the emotional stakes of their double lives.
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