Basketball fans, assemble! The critically acclaimed animated sports thriller “The First Slam Dunk” is set to make its North American home entertainment debut on Blu-ray on June 25, 2024. Distributed by GKIDS and Shout! Studios, this highly anticipated release promises to be a slam dunk for fans of the beloved “Slam Dunk” manga and anime series.
Based on the iconic manga by Takehiko Inoue, which sold over 185 million copies globally, “The First Slam Dunk” marks the franchise’s first new feature-length film in over 26 years. Moreover, it serves as Inoue’s directorial debut, a testament to his passion for the beloved series.
The film’s initial domestic release in Japan in December 2022 shattered box office records, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon. Its impact was further cemented when it won the 2023 Japan Academy Prize for Best Animation of the Year, marking Inoue’s first nomination and win.
“The First Slam Dunk” is a high-octane sports thriller that captures the emotional and suspenseful journey of Ryota Miyagi, Shohoku’s “speedster” point guard. Born and raised in Okinawa, Ryota followed in his older brother’s footsteps, becoming addicted to basketball from a young age. In his second year of high school, Ryota plays alongside Sakuragi, Rukawa, Akagi, and Mitsui as the Shohoku High School basketball team takes the stage at the Inter-High School National Championship, on the brink of challenging the reigning champions, Sannoh Kogyo High School.
The initial Blu-ray run includes a limited-edition sticker sheet featuring Shohoku team uniforms, making it a must-have for collectors. Additionally, the release offers a wealth of bonus features, including an interview with director Takehiko Inoue, a behind-the-scenes look at the English dub with the “Behind the Starting Line-up” featurette, audio commentary with the English dub team, and trailers for the film.
Mark your calendars for June 25, 2024, when “The First Slam Dunk” bounces onto the North American home entertainment scene.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the franchise, this release is a slam dunk you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for details on an upcoming Collector’s Edition later this year.