Irina: The Vampire Cosmonaut

Aired: 2021

A TV anime produced by Arvo Animation, based on the light novel by Keisuke Makino published by Shogakukan's Gagaga Bunko, completed in 7 volumes. Ranked 4th in the Bunko category of "Kono Light Novel ga Sugoi! 2018" and winner of the 53rd Seiun Award for Best Japanese Long Form (2022). Spanning 12 episodes, the story is set in a world modeled after the Cold War space race, where the Zirnitra Federal Republic in the east and the United Kingdom of Arnack in the west compete for space supremacy. In Eastern Year 1960, the Republic launches a secret program to send a member of the persecuted vampire race Nosferatu into space as a test subject before manned spaceflight. Reserve cosmonaut candidate Lev Leps is assigned to monitor and train the vampire princess Irina Luminesk. Through grueling training, a bond forms that transcends prejudice. Main cast includes Megumi Hayashibara as Irina and Kikunosuke Uchiyama as Lev. Music by Yasunori Mitsuda. Series composition by original author Keisuke Makino. ©Keisuke Makino, Shogakukan/"Tsuki to Laika to Nosferatu" Production Committee