In a turn of events that may disappoint fans, the anticipated anime movie adaptation of Rihito Takarai's "Ten Count" BL manga, initially slated for release in 2023, has been abruptly cancelled. The reason cited for this decision revolves around unspecified production circumstances.
The Ten Count movie was revealed to the public in late 2022, with plans for a collaborative effort between East Fish Studio and SynergySP. Sou Toyama, known for directing Helck Episode 18 and 24, took on the role of director and screenwriter. Tomomi Shimazaki, recognized for works like "Mr. Villain's Day Off" and "A Couple of Cuckoos" as a sub-character designer, was responsible for the character designs.
This isn't the first time that "Ten Count" faced setbacks in its journey to the screen. Originally announced as a TV series in 2019 with a scheduled 2020 release, it experienced a shift in format and a delay attributed to "production circumstances."
The source material, "Ten Count" manga, commenced in 2013 and concluded with its sixth tankoubon volume in March 2018. Serialized in Dear+, the plot, as described by SuBLime Manga, revolves around corporate secretary Shirotani, who grapples with obsessive-compulsive disorder. His path crosses with Kurose, a therapist offering a ten-step program to alleviate his compulsions. As they navigate through each step, Shirotani's feelings toward his counselor intensify.
Despite the setback in the anime adaptation, "Ten Count" has left its mark beyond the pages of the manga. It inspired two short-lived smartphone games, offering fans additional ways to engage with the narrative.
While the cancellation brings a sense of disappointment to eager fans, the future may hold new opportunities for the beloved BL manga to find its way to screens in another format or medium.