Maboroshi (also known by its full Japanese title, Alice to Therese no Maboroshi Kōjō) is a Japanese animated film written and directed by Mari Okada and produced by MAPPA — the studio’s first original anime film. Okada previously wrote and directed Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018). The film stars Junya Enoki, Reina Ueda, and Misaki Kuno.
In the story, a factory explosion mysteriously freezes a city in time. Two students then discover a mysterious feral child, sparking a rush of love fueled by the frustration of their daily lives that begins to upend their world.
Quick Facts
| Title | Maboroshi |
| Type | Animated Film (MAPPA) |
| Director | Mari Okada |
| Theatrical Release | September 15, 2023 (Japan) |
| Streaming Release | January 15, 2024 (Netflix, worldwide) |
| Composer | Masaru Yokoyama |
| Theme Song | “Shin-on” by Miyuki Nakajima |
| Where to Stream | Netflix |
| Status | Released |
Who Composed Maboroshi?
Masaru Yokoyama composed the film’s score. Yokoyama is a Japanese composer and arranger known for his work on anime including Astra Lost in Space (2019), Occultic;Nine (2016), and Fruits Basket (2019–2021).
Maboroshi Theme Song
The film’s theme song, “Shin-on” (meaning “heartbeat”), is performed by veteran Japanese singer-songwriter Miyuki Nakajima. Notably, this marked the first time in Nakajima’s decades-long career that she recorded a theme song for an anime or game; director Mari Okada personally asked her to contribute the track, and Okada supervised its production alongside MAPPA.
Where to Stream Maboroshi
Maboroshi debuted in Japanese theaters on September 15, 2023, and is now streaming worldwide on Netflix, where it has been available since January 15, 2024.
Official Trailer
You can watch the film’s official trailer on YouTube for a glimpse of the story and cast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who composed the Maboroshi soundtrack?
Masaru Yokoyama composed the score, and Miyuki Nakajima performed the theme song “Shin-on.”
Is “Shin-on” Miyuki Nakajima’s first anime theme song?
Yes. Maboroshi marked the first time the veteran singer-songwriter recorded a theme song specifically for an anime or game, at director Mari Okada’s personal request.
Where can I watch Maboroshi?
Maboroshi is streaming worldwide on Netflix, where it became available on January 15, 2024, after its September 2023 Japanese theatrical run.
Who directed Maboroshi?
Mari Okada wrote and directed Maboroshi, marking her first original feature film for MAPPA.
Is Maboroshi based on a manga or novel?
No. Maboroshi is an original story conceived by Mari Okada, not an adaptation of an existing manga or novel.
Related reading: Discover more anime soundtracks, browse what’s new on Netflix, or explore our movie soundtrack hub.