Toei Animation Europe has announced a deal with Viz Media Europe for the DVD distribution rights to the classic anime series Sailor Moon. The deal covers plans to release the series in Germany, and “all the French-speaking European countries”.
The French publisher Kazé will release the 46 episodes of the first series. Viz Media Switzerland will release all 200 episodes of the series, comprised of Sailor Moon, Sailor Moon R, Sailor Moon S, Sailor Moon SuperS and Sailor Stars. Both the German and French releases will feature Japanese audio with subtitles and dubbed audio tracks in their respective language.
While this deal has no direct effect on a potential North American release, the fact that the series is getting licensed is a good sign. Combined with the success of the reprints of the original manga by Kodansha USA, it’s not unreasonable for fans to start hoping for the series to come out here, including the previously unaired Sailor Stars.
There is no announced release date, but according to a German newsletter Viz Media Switzerland expects it to be out this winter.
