During the second day of The Idolm@ster SideM 11th Stage ～Ever Ever＠fter～ live event, Bandai Namco Entertainment revealed that the male idol sub-franchise is heading to the big screen. The theatrical project, titled Gekijō-ban Idolm@ster SideM F＠ntastic Battle Fes ～Who goes first～, is scheduled to open across Japanese theaters on November 20. The narrative centers on the F＠ntastic Battle Fes event featuring the talents of the 315 Production agency.
Bandai Namco Entertainment is overseeing and producing the feature, while animation production is handled by studios hotarubi and SIKAKU. Takanori Urui (ManaMoA) serves as director, with Zenta Yamazaki supervising CG direction. Asuka Fujimoto leads composite photography and editing, Takatoshi Hamano directs sound design, and music production is managed by Lantis. Shochiku ODS Jigyō-shitsu will distribute the film, offering interactive "cheering screenings" from day one.
Console Gaming Debut
In addition to the cinematic announcement, the event confirmed the first dedicated console game in the history of The Idolm@ster SideM. Co-published by D3 Publisher and Bandai Namco, the title is currently in development for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
The console entry is structured as an adventure game featuring an original storyline. Players will take on the role of producer, managing schedule logistics and stage preparation for 16 distinct units comprising 49 male idols across 315 Production.
Franchise Background
First launched in 2014, the original The Idolm@ster SideM mobile game built its identity around male talent within 315 Production (pronounced Saikō Production). Following a successful run, the original app wrapped service in January 2023, while subsequent mobile titles Live on St@ge! and Growing Stars closed in 2021 and 2023 respectively. The main line previously received a full television anime adaptation by A-1 Pictures in late 2017, alongside the short-form series The Idolm@ster SideM Wake Atte Mini! in 2018.
