The anime community is abuzz with excitement following the announcement that Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust a cult classic film, will finally receive a proper theatrical release in North America. GKIDS, known for bringing high-quality anime films to Western audiences, has acquired the rights to the film and plans to release it in theaters and on home media in 2027.
This news was revealed during the Anime NYC expo, where GKIDS shared their plans for the film’s distribution. The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from fans who have long awaited the opportunity to experience this gothic masterpiece on the big screen.
The Legacy of Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust
Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust was produced by the renowned studio Madhouse and directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri a key figure in the adult anime boom of the 1980s and 1990s. The film is based on the novels by Hideyuki Kikuchi with character designs by the legendary Yoshitaka Amano known for his work on the Final Fantasy series.
The film follows the enigmatic D a dhampir bounty hunter, as he embarks on a mission to rescue a young woman seemingly abducted by a vampire nobleman. Along the way, D faces off against a group of rival mercenary hunters, uncovering a complex web of loyalty, grief, and love. The film’s unique blend of traditional hand-drawn animation and digital compositing has earned it a dedicated following among anime enthusiasts.
A Theatrical Revival
GKIDS plans to give Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust the theatrical release it deserves, with a full North American rollout scheduled for 2027. In addition to theatrical distribution, GKIDS will also produce physical home media for the film. This is a significant step up from the film’s original U.S. release in 2001, which was limited to just twelve theaters.
The film’s return to theaters is part of a broader trend of late-1990s and early-2000s anime being rediscovered by younger audiences. GKIDS has confirmed that the film will be screened with Japanese audio and English subtitles this fall, serving as a preview before the wider release in 2027. This revival is made possible by a recent restoration of the film’s original 35mm negative, ensuring that audiences will experience the film in the best possible quality.
Expanding the Vampire Hunter D Universe
The excitement surrounding Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust extends beyond the film itself. During the Anime NYC expo, Dark Horse announced a new four-issue comic series titled Fortress of Blood. Additionally, the eighth book in the Vampire Hunter D series, The Rose Princess will receive an English translation, set to be released next June.
With the theatrical release of Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust on the horizon, 2027 is shaping up to be a banner year for fans of the franchise. The film’s return to theaters offers a unique opportunity for both longtime fans and new audiences to experience the gothic world of D and the vampire hunters in all its glory.
