The official website of the next film in the Anpanman anime franchise, Soreike! Anpanman: Miija to Mahō no Lamp (Do It! Anpanman: Miija and the Magic Lamp), announced on Tuesday that the film has cast former AKB48 member Yuko Oshima as the movie's heroine and guest character, Miija. This is her first voice-acting role since leaving the AKB48 idol group.

In the film, Miija is the spirit of the magic lamp. Creampanda and Kokin-chan accidentally enter the world of the lamp. Miija's bracelet breaks, and they are unable to return to their world. All three go on an adventure to find a way to repair Miija's bracelet and find a magic fountain. Oshima will also perform the song "Anpanman Taisō" (Anpanman Exercise) in the film. This is the first time in the series that a guest voice actor will sing the famous ending theme.

The theme of the film will be "If we show consideration, we'll be closer to our friends," as well as "If we always combine our efforts and join hands, our feelings will connect." The film is currently in production, and the other anime part that will screen during the film will be titled Rhythm de Utao! Anpanman Natsu Matsuri (Let's Sing With Rhythm! Anpanman Summer Festival), which is being produced as a work that fans at the cinema can sing along to. Guest voice actors also scheduled to star.

The Soreike! Anpanman television anime series began in 1988, and new Anpanman films have opened each summer since 1989. Last year's Soreike! Anpanman: Ringo Bōya to Minna no Negai (Let's Go! Anpanman: The Apple Boy and Everyone's Wishes) was the first film since Anpanman creator Takashi Yanase's passing.

Source: Tokyo Pop Line