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Tiffany Chen contributed to this interview. After its debut in 2016, the Taiwan-based puppet action series Thunderbolt Fantasy brought the high-flying style of glove puppetry to a worldwide audience, thanks in part to the interest and passion of noted anime screenwriter Gen Urobuchi, who helped create the series . Just under a decade of experiencing the adventures of Shāng Bù Huàn and Lǐn Xuě Yā and the Sword Seekers, the series came to an end when Thunderbolt Fantasy Sword Seekers -The Finale- premiered in Japan this last February. Crunchyroll News was given the chance to interview two staff members from the Thunderbolt Fantasy production studio Pili International Media when they attended the Anime North convention in May to talk about bringing the series worldwide, collaborating with Urobuchi and what's next for the company. First, could you please both introduce yourselves? Jen-Jia Huang : Yes, my name is Jen-Jia Huang with Pili International Multimedia.

After a lengthy and uncertain wait, fans of the Puella Magi Madoka Magica finally have a firm release date for the upcoming movie of the franchise.

The official website for the series announced on July 15, 2025 that Puella Magi Madoka Magica The Movie: Walpurgisnacht: Rising is now scheduled to premiere in February 2026.

The announcement was accompanied by a new trailer and key visual for the movie. Check them out below:

The latest update marks the end of a protracted series of delays for the movie, which serves as a direct sequel to the 2013 film Puella Magi Madoka Magica The Movie Part 3: Rebellion.

The film was originally slated for a winter 2024 release. However, on August 16, 2024, the production committee announced a delay to winter 2025, citing “production circumstances” and stating, “We are continuing our efforts to deliver a better work.”

This new February 2026 release date for the Madoka Magica movie, pushes the film...

Walpurgisnacht draws ever closer! Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- , the highly-anticipated next installment in the magical girl series, has just released a new trailer and poster. And both lock in a February 2026 release window for the movie. Take a look at what's to come in a brand new trailer, featuring appearances from puella magi old and new: Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- Trailer Related: Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- Anime Film Reveals First Key Visual Then feast your eyes on the film's new, classically-inspired key art: Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- Key Visual Related: Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Magia Exedra Game Locks in July 17 Steam Release Date All the staff from Rebellion return at Shaft; with Akiyuki Shimbo as the chief director, Yukihiro Miyamoto directing the film, Nitroplus's Gen Urobuchi writing the script, aokiume designing the characters with Junichiro Taniguchi taking those...

“Thunderbolt Fantasy Sword Seekers Final Chapter” is the third feature-length movie created by the Thunderbolt Fantasy Project, spearheaded by Gen Urobuchi. As the title suggests, it serves as the culmination of the narrative arcs from Seasons 1 to 4, taking place immediately after Season 4, Episode 12: “Demonic Pride”. As the Demon Lord’s castle rises and war erupts, heroes and villains alike converge in a desperate battle that will reshape the world.

Thunderbolt Fantasy Sword Seekers Final Chapter is screening at Neuchatel International Fantastic Film Festival

In the Wasteland of Spirits, defenses are prepared and old alliances tested, while in the heart of the demon realm, Shang Bu Huan, Lin Xue Ya, and Lie Mo Xian risk everything to save their fallen comrade Lang Wu Yao, who has been sacrificed as fuel for a demonic fortress. Meanwhile, Zang Xin Jiao appears to have her own agenda, although she eventually aligns with the protagonists.

Announced back in September 2022 , the light novel to theatrical anime film Eisen Flügel today published a new teaser trailer and a new piece of key art. At the time of reporting, the release date of the film has not yet been revealed. Eisen Flügel Teaser Trailer Gen Urobuchi wrote the original Eisen Flügel light novels, which Shogakukan originally published in 2019 under their Gagaga Bunko imprint. Seiji Mizushima serves as chief director and Daizen Komatsuda serves as director for the Eisen Flügel anime film at animation studio A-1 Pictures. Kiminori Itou provides the character designs (based on original characters by Takashi Takeuchi and original character designs by Keigo Sasaki) and Yuki Kajiura provides the music. Eisen Flügel key art Related: Gen Urobuchi's Eisen Flügel Novel Gets Anime Film Set in a world where dragons rule the skies, Eisen Flügel follows the adventures of Karl Schnitz, a skilled pilot from the Silvanna...

The official website for the two-part stage play musical adaptation of Gen Urobuchi's Fate/Zero light novel series released a trailer for its upcoming second show, Musical "Fate/Zero" ~A Hero of Justice~ , introducing the main cast members. Musical "Fate/Zero" ~A Hero of Justice~ Trailer Following the first show ~The Sword of Promised Victory~ in January, the second show ~A Hero of Justice~ is set to perform at Theater Milano-Za in Tokyo from September 6 to 21, 2025. After various advance sales from June 13 to 21, general sales of the 13,800-yen tickets will begin on July 26. Key visual Related: Fate/Zero Stage Musical Adaptation Reveals Trailer, Main Cast Visuals All of the main cast members from the first show reprise their roles. The site has also revealed individual visuals. Kiritsugu Emiya played by Hironori Araki Saber played by Yuka Akino Irisviel von Einzbern played by Yuka Yamauchi Maiya Hisau played by Minami Tsukui Tokiomi Tohsaka played...

Fans of the masterclass series in crafting and glove puppetry, Thunderbolt Fantasy, are getting some fantastic news, as after being exclusive to Asian regions, the most recent movie is finally coming to international streaming.

Crunchyroll has announced that it is now streaming 2025's Thunderbolt Fantasy movie, Thunderbolt Fantasy Sword Seekers -The Finale-. The movie is currently available worldwide, excluding Japan, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macao and Thailand. Thunderbolt Fantasy began in 2016 and has since produced four seasons and two other movies before The Finale. The series garnered a cult following thanks to its unique use of puppetry, in addition to having Gen Urobuchi as creator and writer and its phenomenal soundtrack courtesy of Hiroyuki Sawano. In addition, collectors of anime goods are likely to be familiar with Good Smile Company, who designed all the puppets for the series as well.

Crunchyroll Hits Play on Newest Thunderbolt Fantasy Movie Image via...

The high-flying adventures of Shāng Bù Huàn and the sword seekers comes to its ultimate conclusion as the Thunderbolt Fantasy Sword Seekers -The Finale- movie is now available to stream on Crunchyroll! Thunderbolt Fantasy Sword Seekers -The Finale- Crunchyroll Streaming Release Date: May 28 at 5:00 p.m. Pt Territories: Worldwide excluding Japan, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macao, Thailand Subtitle Languages: English, French, German Created and written by Gen Urobuchi, Thunderbolt Fantasy released its first season in 2016, the second season in 2018, third season in 2021 and fourth season in 2024. The series has also inspired two films: The Sword of Life and Death and Bewitching Melody of the West in 2017 and 2019, respectively. Thunderbolt Fantasy Sword Seekers -The Finale- was originally released in Japanese theaters in February 2025. All four previous seasons, as well as each film, are currently streaming on Crunchyroll. The series is described as such: Presented through the art of traditional Taiwanese puppetry,...

In the last two years, it's been easy to see how quickly Solo Leveling took the anime sphere by storm. The anticipation for the series' January 2024 premiere was palpable, with the anime community making it Crunchyroll's top series of the year. The second season was similarly the top anime series on the platform in the first quarter of 2025.

In an exclusive interview with Deadline, Crunchyroll president Rahul Purini talked about the series' explosive success. He generally gave credit to the strength of the source IP; the manhwa version of the series was already very popular and had a strong following online thanks to the crisp and colorful visuals and the striking art style, which A-1 pictures managed to capture for fans in the anime adaptation.

Solo Leveling's Success Has Crunchyroll Looking for Next Video Game-Like Smash-Hit Image by Brett Cardaro

However, Purini also noted that Solo Leveling also...

More often than not, a fantastic anime is an adaptation of an equally good manga or light novel; such is the case for most of the best-known series of today. Dragon Ball, Death Note, and Solo Leveling are just a few of the handful of great anime with fans who have fallen in love with the stories told on paper and ink long before they hit the TV screen.

The animation studios that adapted such adored series are also responsible for the greatest anime originals of all time. Sunrise, for example, has created the most famous sci-fi anime in history. There are also writers and directors, such as Gen Urobuchi and Shinichiro Watanabe, who’ve become anime legends for their hand in producing iconic anime originals. All this to say: just because it didn't come from a previously loved manga or light novel doesn't mean it shouldn't be given a chance.

The upcoming Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- anime movie, the newest in the Puella Magi Madoka Magica series, published the first official piece of key art for the movie featuring dramatic artwork of Homura Akemi and Madoka Kaname. The visual features artwork by Junichiro Taniguchi, backgrounds by Shuichi Kusamori, finishing work by studio Shaft and Kazuki Kawada as the Visual Director. The movie is currently scheduled to open in winter 2025 in Japan . Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- key art All the staff from Rebellion return at Shaft; with Akiyuki Shimbo as the chief director, Yukihiro Miyamoto directing the film, Nitroplus's Gen Urobuchi writing the script, aokiume designing the characters with Junichiro Taniguchi taking those designs and making them fit for animation, Yuki Kajiura as the composer on the film, and Gekidan Inu Curry returning to design the Witches Spaces. The original cast is also set to reprise...

Censorship can be a bummer and that was the case with Psycho-Pass. The series is underrated in terms of its animation as well as its themes. It dealt with corruption, morality, and the workings of the human psyche. The human mind can be dangerous and there’s an interesting inspiration behind it.

A still from the Psycho-Pass anime | Credit: Production I.G.

Not video games or books but a Russell Crowe movie influenced this 2000s anime. Both share similarities in their themes and elements but here’s a catch. While the film was greenlighted, the anime was eventually banned in China. That, however, doesn’t dispute its masterpiece status in any way.

Russell Crowe’s $126 million movie inspired this dystopian anime

From Insider to Gladiator, Russell Crowe has dabbled in every genre as an actor. He is a well-rounded artist who is celebrated for his diverse roles and filmography. But...

2025 got off to an excellent start with the return of shows like Solo Leveling and Dr. Stone, which, as always, have been phenomenal in their weekly schedule. However, the momentum did not continue until next month, as there were few other exciting premieres, and it seems like March will be similar, with only a handful of series coming out.

Certainly, the lineup includes an intriguing fantasy anime with a distinctive premise, and manga fans are eagerly waiting for its release. Additionally, next month, we will see the release of a few OVAs from prominent franchises like Kaiju No. 8 and Aldnoah Zero, so the overall conclusion should not be disappointing. So, without further ado, let's explore what anime has in store for fans in March 2025.

'Sword of the Demon Hunter' Streaming on Crunchyroll on March 31

Sword of the Demon Hunter, also known as Kijin Gentoushou, is an upcoming...

The Uzumaki anime adaptation had so much potential; it had all the ingredients to make it a mind-blowing horror series filled with a creepy setting, a unique storyline, and of course the touch of Junji Ito! And yet, for obvious production issues, it just did not quite live up to the hype.

The more one watched, the more disappointing it got. It was like the creators had a great story to work on but just couldn’t execute it properly.

The “Medicine Seller” from the Mononoke anime | Credits: Toei Animation

The result was an utter disappointment for horror lovers who are constantly searching for something extraordinary. However, there still remains a faint glimmer of hope! The latest Mononoke film has caused a lot of hype and it might just be what the horror anime fans need.

Mononoke is back again to save the anime industry from the lack of good...

What is the best anime of all time? As anime attracts more new fans every day, that's a question viewers both old and new tend to ask. Watching anime was once a niche pastime, but now it's nearly impossible to find someone who hasn't at least watched one title from the medium. It's easy to see why more people love anime as a mainstream hobby nowadays, especially when the best anime of all time tell incredible, compelling stories with gorgeous visuals and fascinating characters.

Many of the top anime of all time are instantly recognizable classics that defined the medium for years while a few newer-generation hits also have pretty high ratings and command a great deal of respect. Best of all, these top anime series cover an impressive variety of cinematic genres and storytelling themes, meaning there's something for everyone in the industry's uppermost echelon.

Updated on February 5, 2025 by...

It’s finally time to experience the last adventures of the sword seekers as Thunderbolt Fantasy Season 4 premieres on Crunchyroll on January 25! Thunderbolt Fantasy Sword Seekers 4 Crunchyroll Streaming Release Date: January 25 at 2:00 p.m. Pt Territories: Worldwide excluding Japan, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macao, Thailand Subtitle Languages: English, French, German Created and written by Gen Urobuchi, Thunderbolt Fantasy released its first season in 2016, with a second season following in 2018 and a third season in 2021. The series has also inspired two films: The Sword of Life and Death and Bewitching Melody of the West in 2017 and 2019, respectively. The fourth season originally broadcast in Japan from October to December 2024 for 12 episodes. A finale movie, titled Thunderbolt Fantasy: Toriken Yuki Saishusho , is scheduled to premiere in Japan on February 21, 2025. All three previous seasons, as well as both films, are currently streaming on Crunchyroll, who describe the series: Presented through the art of traditional Taiwanese puppetry,...

We are happy to share that some new information about the upcoming Aldnoah.Zero (Re+) movie has been released. A brand-new trailer and a key visual were recently revealed, generating a lot of excitement.

This upcoming movie isn’t just a simple recap—it will repackage the TV anime and include a fresh bonus episode called EP24.5: “Rain Chapter -The Penultimate Truth”. Mark your calendars because it will hit theaters in Japan for a limited time starting February 28, 2025. The movie’s announcement came last December.

For those eager to get a glimpse, you can check out the trailer below:

As for the voices bringing the characters to life, we have Natsuki Hanae voicing Inaho Kaizuka, Kensho Ono as Slaine Troyard, and Sora Amamiya as Asseylum Vers Allusia. These three lead characters are prominently featured in the new key visual for the movie.

The animation studios behind this project are A-1 Pictures and Troyca,...

Aldnoah.Zero (Re+) , an upcoming theatrical anime film that compiles the 2014 – 2015 Aldnoah.Zero TV anime along with new footage, has released a new trailer (below) and new key art. The film will screen at select theaters in Japan beginning on February 28, 2025. Aldnaoh.Zero (Re+) Trailer Based on an original story by Gen Urobuchi (of Nitroplus), Ei Aoki directed the Aldnaoh.Zero TV anime at animation studio Troyca. Katsuhiko Takayama provided the series composition, Masako Matsumoto provided the character designs (based on original creations by Takako Shimura) and served as chief animation director and Hiroyuki Sawano provided the music. Aldnaoh.Zero (Re+) key art Related: Aldnoah.Zero (Re+) Anime Compilation Film Releases in Japanese Theaters February 28 Crunchyroll describes Aldnoah.Zero : Humanity has clearly split into two and currently there is no way these groups will once again unite. Humanity celebrates this transient time of peace as they slowly dismiss from their minds the...

For democracy and giant robots! After unleashing a trailer for the second season of The Last of Us, Sony used their time at CES (Consumer Electronics Show) to announce feature film adaptations for two of its hottest gaming properties, Horizon Zero Dawn and Helldivers 2.

Speaking about the projects at the annual technology showcase, Asad Qizilbash, Head of Playstation Productions, said, “Looking ahead as to what might come next, I’m excited to announce we are working with Sony Pictures on developing a film adaptation of our amazingly popular PlayStation game Helldivers 2.” Qizilbash included plans for an adaptation of Horizon Zero Dawn and a Ghost of Tsushima anime called Ghost of Tsushima: Legends in his address.

Horizon Zero Dawn takes place in a far-flung future where colossal machines roam and rule the Earth, and pockets of humanity survive in unique tribes among the lush, overgrown ruins of our long-lost civilization.

Crunchyroll announced the anime adaptation of Sucker Punch Productions’ Ghost of Tsushima: Legends game during Sony Group Corporation’s CES 2025 press conference in Las Vegas.

The adaptation, co-produced by Crunchyroll, Aniplex, Sony Music, and PlayStation Productions, will premiere exclusively on Crunchyroll in 2027.

The anime will be directed by Takanobu Mizuno, with Gen Urobuchi (Nitro Plus) in charge of story composition. Kamikaze Douga will handle animation. Sony Music Entertainment will serve as the music and soundtrack partner.

“This project is a testament to the creative synergy within the Sony family, uniting the expertise of PlayStation Studios and PlayStation Productions; the creative team of Sucker Punch Productions and Aniplex; Sony Music’s iconic global artist roster; and Crunchyroll’s fan-first global marketing and distribution footprint. The Ghost of Tsushima anime will offer fans an exciting new way to experience the game in an anime style that will be bold and groundbreaking,” said Rahul Purini,...

Crunchyroll, the global anime brand, together with Aniplex, Sony Music, and PlayStation Productions, today announced a new anime series adapted from Sucker Punch Productions’ award-winning “Ghost of Tsushima” video game and its “Legends” cooperative multiplayer experience inspired by Japanese folktales and mythology.

The Ghost of Tsushima anime will be produced in collaboration with Aniplex, the studio behind globally celebrated series such as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Solo Leveling, and Sword Art Online. The adaptation will be helmed by Director Takanobu Mizuno, with Gen Urobuchi (Nitro Plus) for Story Composition and animation by Kamikaze Douga. Together, the team will bring Ghost of Tsushima: Legends’ traditional samurai aesthetics to life with cinematic storytelling and striking visuals. Sony Music will serve as the strategic music and soundtrack partner for the series.“This project is a testament to the creative synergy within the Sony family, uniting the expertise of PlayStation Studios and PlayStation...

Crunchyroll, the global anime brand, together with Aniplex, Sony Music, and PlayStation Productions, today announced a new anime series adapted from Sucker Punch Productions’ award-winning Ghost of Tsushima video game and its Legends cooperative multiplayer experience inspired by Japanese folktales and mythology.

The Ghost of Tsushima anime will be produced in collaboration with Aniplex, the studio behind globally celebrated series such as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Solo Leveling, and Sword Art Online.

The adaptation will be helmed by director Takanobu Mizuno, with Gen Urobuchi (Nitroplus) for Story Composition and the animation by Kamika Douga. Together, the team will bring Ghost of Tsushima: Legends’ traditional samurai aesthetics to life with cinematic storytelling and striking visuals.

Sony Music will serve as the strategic music and soundtrack partner for the series.

“This project is a testament to the creative synergy within the Sony family, uniting the expertise of PlayStation Studios and PlayStation...

A Ghost of Tsushima anime adapting Sucker Punch's smash-hit game and Legends multiplayer game is coming to the Crunchyroll streaming service in 2027.

Via a press release, four companies under the Sony Group: Crunchyroll, Aniplex, Sony Music, and PlayStation Productions will produce an anime series adapted from Sucker Punch Productions’ award-winning Ghost of Tsushima video game and its Legends cooperative multiplayer game. The Ghost of Tsushima anime's initial staff announcement includes director Takanobu Mizuno (Star Wars: Visions - The Duel), with Gen Urobuchi credited for the series composition. Star Wars: Visions studio Kamikaze Douga is responsible for animation production and Sony Music serves as the series' strategic music and soundtrack partner. Readers can check out the newly released Ghost of Tsushima visual below. The series premieres exclusively on Crunchyroll in 2027.

Related 'There’s a Meaning to Everything': Solo Leveling Stars Tease Major Character Developments in Season 2

Popular Solo Leveling actors...

It is official, everyone. Ghost of Tsushima is getting its very own anime. After years of pleading, the powers at be behind Ghost of Tsushima have come together to create an anime at long last. Today, the project was announced with help from Aniplex and PlayStation as the brands are working with Crunchyroll to bring the show Ghost of Tsushima: Legends to life.

For those curious about Ghost of Tsushima: Legends, the anime boasts a killer staff. Takanobu Mizuno will direct the project while Gen Urobuchi handles story composition. Animation will be handled by Kamikaze Douga, and, of course, Aniplex is overseeing production in part. Netizens will know the production company thanks to its work on several high-profile anime titles including Solo Leveling, Sword Art Online, and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.

As for the anime's release, it is slated to go live in 2027. Crunchyroll will be streaming the series,...

Crunchyroll announced during Sony Group Corporation’s CES 2025 press conference today that an anime series based on Sucker Punch Productions’ Ghost of Tsushima video game and its Ghost of Tsushima: Legends multiplayer experience is officially in production. The anime will exclusively premiere on Crunchyroll in 2027. Takanobu Mizuno ( Star Wars: Visions " The Duel" ) will direct the series at Kamikaze Douga, with Gen Urobuchi writing the story composition. The anime will be produced in collaboration with Aniplex, with Sony Music serving as music and soundtrack partner. Additional staff and cast were not announced at the time of the panel. The original Ghost of Tsushima game debuted on the PlayStation 4 in July 2020, with the PlayStation 5 released in 2021 and Windows in 2024. Ghost of Tsushima: Legends debuted in October 2020. A sequel, titled Ghost of Yōtei , was announced in September 2024 with a scheduled release of 2025. Sucker Punch describes the original game as such: The year is...

Crunchyroll revealed it is helping develop a series adaptation of popular video game Ghost of Tsushima and also said it plans to launch a manga app as a premium add-on for subscribers.

The anime outlet made the announcements during Sony Corp.’s annual press conference at CES in Las Vegas. (Sony Pictures Entertainment acquired Crunchyroll in 2021.)

The Ghosts of Tsushima series is a production of Crunchyroll along with Aniplex, Sony Music, and PlayStation Productions. The adaptation of Sucker Punch Productions’ award-winning game will also incorporate material from its Legends cooperative multiplayer experience, which is inspired by Japanese folktales and mythology.

A press release said the new series, premiering exclusively on Crunchroll in 2027, will look to bring the game’s “traditional samurai aesthetics to life with cinematic storytelling and striking visuals.” Sony Music will be the strategic music and soundtrack partner for the series. Most of the creative team and cast...

Anime often uses love triangles to increase the tension in different series. This often leads to one side of the love triangle achieving happiness with their significant other, while the remaining person is rejected. Sometimes, it's expected or appreciated, thanks to how the rejected character treats their love interest. Other times, fans can't help but feel bad for the character who didn't get the love they wanted.

Sometimes, no matter how kind and helpful the rejected character was, they didn't meet the protagonist at the right time or tey just weren't the right person for them. Sometimes, it wasn't their fault at all, or perhaps they were never even considered an option. These ten rejected love interests deserved better.

Sayaka Became a Magical Girl for Kyousuke Kyousuke Had Feelings for Hitomi Instead

In Puella Magi Madoka Magica, Sayaka Miki was friends with a former violin prodigy named Kyousuke. Although she...

Gen Urobuchi's wuxia epic Thunderbolt Fantasy comes to a close this winter. This weekend, it was confirmed that the puppet show's "final chapter"— Thunderbolt Fantasy: Toriken Yuki Saishusho —will premiere in Japanese cinemas on February 21, 2025. The announcement was accompanied by a teaser trailer and poster: Thunderbolt Fantasy: Toriken Yuki Saishusho Related: Thunderbolt Fantasy Returns With Fourth Season in 2024 and Film in 2025 The film was first announced earlier this year alongside the fourth season, which premiered in Japan on October 5 of this year. More information will be forthcoming about this final installment. Created and written by Gen Urobuchi, Thunderbolt Fantasy kicked off its first season in 2016 with a second season following in 2018 and a third season in 2021. The series has also inspired two films ( The Sword of Life and Death and Bewitching Melody of the West ) in 2017 and 2019, respectively. The first three seasons as well as both films are...

Aldnaoh.Zero , a science fiction TV anime from 2014, is receiving a special compilation film entitled Aldnoah.Zero (Re+) which combines footage from the TV series along with new footage from the new work, “Ame no Tanjou” (“Fragments of Rain”). The film will screen at select theaters in Japan beginning on February 28, 2025. Aldnaoh.Zero (Re+) TV Commercial Aldnaoh.Zero key art Related: Director Ei Aoki Discusses Why Aldnaoh.Zero Reveals His True Personality Based on an original story by Gen Urobuchi, Ei Aoki directed the Aldnaoh.Zero TV anime at animation studio Troyca. Katsuhiko Takayama provided the series composition, Masako Matsumoto provided the character designs (based on original creations by Takako Shimura) and served as chief animation director and Hiroyuki Sawano provided the music. Crunchyrolly describes Aldnoah.Zero : Humanity has clearly split into two and currently there is no way these groups will once again unite. Humanity celebrates this transient time of...

The official X (formerly Twitter) account for the stage musical adaptation of Gen Urobuchi's Fate/Zero novel today unveiled a second key visual, depicting the seven Servants that take part in the Fourth Holy Grail War. Fate/Zero Musical Key Visual 2 Hideyuki Nishimori ( Moriarty the Patriot musical) directs the production and pens the script under the supervision of Urobuchi, while also being in charge of song lyrics. Performances are currently slated for Tokyo's Theater Milano-Za on January 18-26, followed by Osaka's Sky Theater Mbs on January 31-February 2. The show's core cast is as follows: Kiritsugu Emiya played by Hironori Araki Saber played by Yuka Akino Irisviel von Einzbern played by Yuka Yamauchi Maiya Hisau played by Minami Tsukui Tokiomi Tohsaka played by Yusuke Toyama Archer played by Harumi Okayama Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald played by Yuichi Ito Lancer played by Teruma Ryunosuke Uryu played by Yoshihide Sasaki Caster played by Metal Yoshida...

Previously announced back in January 2024 , Expelled from Paradise: Resonance of the Heart , the sequel to the 2014 Expelled from Paradise original theatrical anime film, has revealed a new trailer and a new piece of key art (below). The film is scheduled to hit Japanese theaters in 2026. Expelled from Paradise: Resonance of the Heart Trailer The new film reunites the staff of the earlier film, with Seiji Mizushima directing a screenplay by Gen Urobuchi (of Nitroplus) and Masatsugu Saito providing character designs. Kanetake Ebikawa, Junya Ishigaki and Takayuki Yanase provide mechanical designs, and Narasaki provides the music. The cast for the new film has not yet been revealed. Expelled from Paradise: Resonance of the Heart key art Related: Expelled from Paradise Anime Film Gets 10th Anniversary 4K Screening Expelled from Paradise debuted in Japan in 2014. Aniplex of America held a total of 15 screenings across the US in December of the same year.

Shocking plot twists are among the most memorable moments in any anime they're present in. Often dark, tragic, and depressing, the surprise factor of these twists is only one layer of them. In certain cases, they're made even more powerful while watching an anime for the second time.

Some famous anime plot twists are even more impactful when a viewer knows they're coming. Longer anime like One Piece use them to recontextualize decades of events, while shorter anime like Puella Magi Madoka Magica are entirely defined by their twists. When these twists are viewed the second time around, it's easier to appreciate everything that builds up to them.

Related 10 Best Shonen Anime If You Want Even More Action Than Dragon Ball Z

While Dragon Ball Z is the most universally known anime series, these shows are just as action-packed as that legendary title.

Kyubei's True Identity Reveals the Dark Nature...

The story of Puella Magi Madoka Magica is the story of Homura Akemi fighting for love and receiving tragedy in return. All of that comes to ahead in the newest trailer for Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- , the upcoming fourth film in the anime franchise, which focuses on the magical girl as she is now after the events of Rebellion . The trailer was initially attached to a week-long re-screening of Rebellion leading up to Halloween. Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- - Side Homura Teaser Trailer Related: Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- Anime Film Has Their Cake in New Trailer All the staff from Rebellion return at Shaft; with Akiyuki Shimbo as the chief director, Yukihiro Miyamoto directing the film, Nitroplus's Gen Urobuchi writing the script, aokiume designing the characters with Junichiro Taniguchi taking those designs and making them fit for animation, Yuki Kajiura as the composer on the film,...

The official website for Musical "Fate/Zero" ~The Sword of Promised Victory~ , the upcoming stage play musical adaptation of Gen Urobuchi's Fate/Zero light novel series, today released a trailer and visuals introducing its main cast members. Musical "Fate/Zero" ~The Sword of Promised Victory~ Trailer Key visual Kiritsugu Emiya played by Hironori Araki Saber played by Yuka Akino Irisviel von Einzbern played by Yuka Yamauchi Maiya Hisau played by Minami Tsukui Tokiomi Tohsaka played by Yusuke Toyama Archer played by Harumi Okayama Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald played by Yuichi Ito Lancer played by Teruma Ryunosuke Uryu played by Yoshihide Sasaki Caster played by Metal Yoshida Kariya Matou played by Kento Waver played by Raima Hiramatsu Rider played by Yuji Kishi Risei Kotomine played by Ryo Kitazono Musical "Fate/Zero" ~The Sword of Promised Victory~ is set to perform at Theater Milano-Za in Tokyo from January 18 to 26, 2025, then at Sky Theater Mbs in Osaka...

Released in the 2010s, the Puella Magi Madoka Magica series quickly became one of the most popular modern magical girl anime of its era. Now, the movie iteration of the series is being celebrated with a pair of expensive yet stylish dolls.

Based on Madoka and Homura, the upcoming Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie: Rebellion dolls are veritable pieces of art. Portraying both characters in colorful kimonos, the collectibles come complete with cute accessories. Expertly designed by a doll artist but costing a penny as pretty as them, these magical girls are now available to pre-order worldwide. With a new Madoka Magica movie on the way in 2025, these dolls are the perfect representation of the series' legacy.

Related New Sailor Moon Perfume Release Promises a "Refreshing" and "Exquisite" Scent for Diehard Collectors

The Fabulous Shop unveils its new Sailor Moon perfume, promising a "refreshing" and "exquisite" scent in a limited-edition collector's bottle.

2024 marks the 10th anniversary of Expelled from Paradise , the 3Dcg anime film directed by Seiji Mizushima ( Fullmetal Alchemist ) and written by Gen Urobuchi ( Puella Magi Madoka Magica ). To celebrate, the film is being converted to 4K for a special anniversary screening. Titled Expelled from Paradise -Impelled by 10th Anniversary- , the new upconverted version of the film will screen in Japanese cinemas for two weeks starting November 15. A new trailer and poster have been released in advance of the screening: Related: Expelled from Paradise: Resonance of the Heart Anime Film Currently in Production Expelled from Paradise debuted in Japan in 2014. Aniplex of America held a total of 15 screenings across the US in December of the same year. The film follows Angela Balzac, an agent living in a virtual reality world aboard a space station, as she assumes an organic body to investigate a hacker on the now-barren planet Earth.

An official website and X (formerly Twitter) account opened today announced that a stage musical adapation of Gen Urobuchi's Fate/Zero light novel is in the works. Hideyuki Nishimori ( Moriarty the Patriot musical) directs the production and pens the script under the supervision of Urobuchi, while also being in charge of song lyrics. Performances are currently slated for Tokyo and Osaka in January-February, 2025. The show's cast will be revealed at a later date, but in the meantime, we have our first preview of Saber in the below teaser visual! Teaser Visual Related: Yona of the Dawn Stage Musical Unveils New Key Visual Crunchyroll streams the 2011 anime adaptation of Fate/Zero and describes the story: The ultimate battle royal, in which seven Masters vying for control of the miracle-granting Holy Grail summon seven Servants and fight until only one remains... The Holy Grail War. After three inconclusive wars, the fuse has now...

Though the next Puella Magi Madoka Magica outing for the magical girls was pushed back to Winter 2025 , the upcoming Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- anime film got a brand new trailer today at Aniplex Online Fest 2024 along with the first character trailer for the Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Magia Exedra smartphone game. Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- Second Main Trailer In the lead-up to -Walpurgisnacht Rising- , the previous film in the now tetralogy of Madoka Magica anime movies, Rebellion , will return to Japanese theaters for one week from October 25 to 31 with special gifts being given out to those who purchase tickets. Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Magia Exedra Ashley Taylor Character Trailer The above character trailer for the newest Madoka Magica smartphone game announces that Sally Amaki, known for voicing Carol Olston from Tomo-chan Is a Girl! , will voice the character Ashley Taylor. The trailer also confirmed that pre-registration...

Series like Violet Evergarden and Attack On Titan keep gaining widespread popularity owing not only to their extraordinary plot and characters, but also to having some of the best animation in anime. With their success, it's apparent that the quality of animation and pleasant graphics are crucial factors in bringing an anime to the top. There are plenty of anime with beautiful animation that get lost in the shuffle, but others become model series with the right blend of plot, character development, and animation.

With entries from both categories, the anime with the best animation all have agreeable and visually appealing animation that is both clever and beautiful.

Styles, target demographics, and genre can vary highly, but the one thing every one of these series shares is a beautiful animation style that absolutely makes the series.

Aldnoah Zero's Muddled Story is Saved By Incredible Animation Original Anime Series By...

The production committee of the upcoming film Puella Magi Madoka Magica Walpurgisnacht: Rising has announced that the movie will be delayed by almost a year.

Originally slated for a winter 2024 release, the film is now scheduled to premiere in winter 2025.

In a statement issued on Aug 16, 2024, the committee explained that the movie was being delayed due to production circumstances, though specifics were not mentioned. Checkout the translation of their statement below.

“Due to production circumstances, we have decided to change the release date of Puella Magi Madoka Magica Walpurgisnacht: Rising as follows: from winter 2024 to winter 2025. We sincerely apologize to everyone who has been looking forward to this film. We are continuing our efforts to deliver a better work. We kindly ask for your understanding.“

Despite the delay, it was confirmed that new information about the movie will be revealed during the Aniplex Online Festival which will take place on...

Fans of the Puella Magi Madoka Magica anime will have to wait a little bit longer for the follow up for the 2013 anime film Puella Magi Madoka Magica The Movie -Rebellion- as the official accounts for the franchise announced today that the upcoming Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- anime film has been postponed from its original Winter 2024 release to Winter 2025 in Japan. According to the official statement, the delay is due to “production reasons.” Despite this, more information on -Walpurgisnacht Rising- will be announced at the Aniplex Online Fest 2024 on September 16, with the free stream for the event available in English live. Related: Puella Magi Madoka Magica -Walpurgisnacht Rising- Anime Film Rings in New Trailer, Winter 2024 Release All the staff from Rebellion return at Shaft; with Akiyuki Shimbo as the chief director, Yukihiro Miyamoto directing the film, Nitroplus's Gen Urobuchi writing the script, aokiume designing the...

Thunderbolt Fantasy – a Japanese / Taiwanese martial arts puppetry co-production between Nitroplus, Good Smile Company, and Pili International Media – has revealed a new trailer, a new piece of key art (below), and two new cast members for its upcoming fourth season. The series will broadcast in Japan on Tokyo Mx on Thursdays at 10pm Jst beginning on October 5, 2024. The new cast members for the new season include: Bàwáng Yù voiced by Fairouz Ai Huā Wú Zōng voiced by Shogo Batori Created and written by Gen Urobuchi, Thunderbolt Fantasy kicked off its first season in 2016 with a second season following in 2018 and a third season in 2021. The series has also inspired two films ( The Sword of Life and Death and Bewitching Melody of the West ) in 2017 and 2019, respectively. All three previous seasons as well as both films are currently streaming on Crunchyroll. Thunderbolt Fantasy Season 4 key art Related: Thunderbolt Fantasy Returns With...

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A-1 Pictures' highly anticipated Solo Leveling Season 2, titled Arise from the Shadow, has revealed its first teaser trailer, with the upcoming anime still pending a release window.

Solo Leveling came back with a bang at Anime Expo 2024, revealing the first teaser trailer for Season 2. Via Solo Leveling's official X (formerly Twitter) account, the news was revealed during Anime Expo's Solo Leveling panel, which saw Sung Jinwoo voice actors Taito Ban (Japanese-language voice actor) and Aleks Le (English) share the stage. The series' producer at A-1 Pictures, Atsushi Kaneko, was also in attendance. Readers can check out the first Solo Leveling Season 2 teaser trailer below.

Related Solo Leveling's Sung Jinwoo Gets First Concept Art Reveal of Adorable Nendoroid Form

The level grinding continues for Sung Jinwoo in his new adorable form with the upcoming Solo Leveling Nendoroid by Good Smile Company.

If you’ve been involved with the anime community any time in the past few years, there’s a good chance you’ve at least heard of the Fate series. Whether it’s Fate/Zero , Fate/Stay Night , or one of the numerous Fate/Grand Order adaptations, you’ve probably seen people discussing the series or sharing artwork from it. But what actually is this series? Speaking as a long-time fan, I’ll admit, it’s difficult to know where to even start with all these adaptations, spinoffs, games, and more, which is why I’m here to go through the history of this franchise, where it started, where it is now, and how to get into it for newcomers who want to try it out. But first, a little background. The Origins of Type-moon The history of Fate is heavily intertwined with the history of the game studio Type-moon . Type-moon began...

Thunderbolt Fantasy – a Japanese / Taiwanese martial arts puppetry co-production between Nitroplus, Good Smile Company, and Pili International Media – has revealed that it will be returning for a fourth season of sword-seeking adventure in 2024 as well as a film entitled “The Final Chapter” in 2025. A new teaser visual and video have also been revealed (below). Created and written by Gen Urobuchi, Thunderbolt Fantasy kicked off its first season in 2016 with a second season following in 2018 and a third season in 2021. The series has also inspired two films ( The Sword of Life and Death and Bewitching Melody of the West ) in 2017 and 2019, respectively. All three previous seasons as well as both films are currently available via streaming on Crunchyroll. Thunderbolt Fantasy Season 4 teaser visual Related: Seven Seas Licenses Thunderbolt Fantasy Manga Adaptation Crunchyroll describes Thunderbolt Fantasy : What happens when you then take Gen Urobuchi from Nitroplus and partner him with Pili International Media,...

Expelled from Paradise is receiving an official sequel titled Liberated from Paradise: Resonance of the Heart All of the original staff will return for the sequel, including director Seiji Mizushima and writer Gen Urobuchi. Despite its lack of popularity, Expelled from Paradise greatly stands out thanks to its visuals, writing, and overall great direction.

In 2014, acclaimed anime director Seiji Mizushima and acclaimed anime writer Gen Urobuchi collaborated on the CG anime film, Expelled from Paradise. While it's hardly either creator's most notable work, the writing and impressive CG visuals did allow the film to be a modest success and maintain a cult following in the years since its release.

Expelled from Paradise is a very underrated film, and a decade after its release, it's getting an unexpected sequel. In 2022, it was announced that Expelled from Paradise staff members Seiji Mizushima, Gen Urobuchi, Masatsugu Saito, and Narasaki would be collaborating on another project together.

Ten years ago, Expelled from Paradise hit theaters in Japan, marking Toei Animation's first original feature film since 1973. The 3Dcg film was a surprising success — raking in more than 100 million yen across its 13-theater release. Now, the adventure will continue, as a follow-up film is confirmed to be in the works. Expelled from Paradise: Resonance of the Heart (translated as Liberated from Paradise ) is now in production, with Seiji Mizushima returning to direct and Gen Urobuchi once again penning the screenplay. A teaser visual has been released, showing what appears to be a much-changed Angela Balzac braving a snowy wasteland: Related: Synduality Echo of Ada Game Trailer Highlights Magus and Cradlecoffin Customization A teaser trailer has also been released: Related: The Imaginary Anime Film and Studio Ponoc Land New Global Distribution Deal The social media post confirms that the main staff have reunited for production and are currently working...

Toei Animation's metaverse project Onn'on Studios will hold a virtual event "Virtual Anime Fes" using VR space at 15:00-17:00 on January 27 (Jst) / 22:00-24:00 on January 26 (Pst). The event will be held at Toei Animation’s multiverse theme park ImaginaryPark2070 on VRChat, and will also be live-streamed on Toei Animation's official YouTube channel below for free. The event will include a virtual reading stage featuring Kojiro Shindo (CV: Akihiro Miura) and Shuji Asano (CV: Kenji Akabane) from Kado: The Right Answer , an announcement of the release of a new Mr game from Kaiju Decode , and an announcement of a new film project by the production team of Expelled from Paradise , including director Seiji Mizushima and screenplay writer Gen Urobuchi. Additionally, the project 's three official characters — Memory (CV: Momo Asakura), Neiro (CV: Shino Shimoji), and Kaeru (CV: Karin Takahashi) will form a time-limited unit Satellite and will make their stage debut.

Anime teams bring characters together to achieve more than they ever could as individuals. The best anime teams have different goals but work together to do great things. Iconic anime teams like Team 7 from Naruto and the Straw Hat Pirates from One Piece demonstrate strong character development and create memorable stories.

Although some anime characters have become icons all on their own, some the best teams in anime demonstrate how iconic characters are better together. Many of the most popular anime series of all time are carried by the strength of their central teams. These teams have created many famous moments in anime and helped beloved characters reach new heights.

Teams can take many forms. From pirates to school sports teams, there's no definition of what makes a team. The most important aspect of anime teams is that they bring characters together to allow them to achieve more than they ever could as individuals.

Anime shows that focus on scientific topics or the scientific process can be enjoyable for science nerds while still providing an entertaining story. These shows capture the beauty of space, delve into economics, apply technology to policing, explore the life of astronauts, feature science-based powers, and more. Rare gems like Planetes and Spice and Wolf accurately reflect the science they are based on, providing a joy to watch for science nerds despite being in different genres. These shows successfully combine scientific concepts with compelling narratives. Anime like Cells at Work! and Dr. Stone offer educational content by teaching viewers about the human body and scientific discovery, respectively. These shows are accurate in their depiction of science and provide both entertainment and knowledge to science nerds.

While many anime flout the rules of science in favor of bombastic powers, there are some anime that every science nerd would enjoy. These shows...