The anime-inspired short film series “Ninjago Legends: Duskfall” held its world premiere in South Korea this Friday, kicking off ahead of its global digital release. The event took place at the Park Mall Yongsan in Seoul during a dedicated fan gathering.
Following the Korean debut, the three interconnected episodes will become available worldwide on the Lego Group’s official YouTube channel on Saturday, Sept. 19. Each short runs approximately three minutes, forming a cohesive narrative arc that introduces new challenges and battles for the franchise’s most popular characters.
The project serves as a centerpiece for the 15th anniversary of the Ninjago brand. It features returning voice talent from both the original series and “Ninjago Dragons Rising,” including Andrew Francis as Cole, Kelly Metzger as Nya, and Vincent Tong as Kai. Additional returning voices include Brian Drummond as Diviner and Runt, Adrian Petriw as Scott, and Sabrina Pitre, known for voicing Sora in “Dragons Rising,” who appears as a reporter.
Directed by David Cazeaux and Charles Lefebvre, with Hugo Cierzniak co-directing the final episode, the trilogy is titled “The End Begins,” “Terminus,” and “Epilogue.” A trailer for the series highlights intense action sequences, with dialogue hinting at a shift in tone where characters are referred to as “warriors” and “protectors” rather than just fighting conventional monsters.
Fans who have grown up with the franchise are hoping the successful launch of these anime-style shorts leads to a full-length series expansion.
Cool concept, but I honestly prefer the classic cartoon style. This looks a bit too dark for my taste.
A full series would be amazing, but three short episodes feels like a test run. Let’s see how the ratings go first.
Is anyone else excited about the voice cast returning? Andrew Francis and Kelly Metzger are essential for this franchise.
Wait, the premiere was already in Seoul? I missed that. Good thing it drops on YouTube tomorrow for the rest of us.
Finally, some mature storytelling in Ninjago! The anime style is a perfect fit for these legends.