10 Best Anime Movies of 2025

In 2025, to be fair, there are no upcoming standalone anime movies from big-name directors like Makoto Shinkai, Mamoru Hosoda or Hatao Miyazaki (Update: Mamoru Hosoda’s new film has been officially announced for release in 2025). But this year still boasts some of the most anticipated film sequels to hit anime in recent years. Additionally, a highly awaited anime movie that was originally scheduled for release last year will finally make its debut.

So, what masterpieces will be born this year? In this article, I’ll introduce the best anime movies of 2025. For sequel films, I’ll also provide a guide on how to catch up for those who haven’t yet watched the original series.

What Kind of Year is 2025 for Anime?

2025 is shaping up to be a standout year in the anime world, driven by a strong lineup of sequels, long-awaited finales, and promising new adaptations. Popular titles like Re:Zero Season 3, Dandadan Season 2, and Spy × Family Season 3 are set to return, bringing back familiar favorites while also attracting a new wave of fans both in Japan and overseas.

It’s also a year of endings, with major franchises such as Dr. Stone: Science Future (Season 4) and My Hero Academia Final Season (Season 8) reaching their climactic conclusions. These emotional send-offs are sure to leave a lasting impression on longtime viewers.

At the same time, fresh anime adaptations are gaining traction. Series like Blue Box, Medalist, and Orb: On the Movements of the Earth have made a strong entrance, each based on acclaimed manga and poised to become the next big hits.

One of the greatest anime achievements in recent years, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, is finally entering its grand finale—a three-part final arc that marks the climax of the series.

At the same time, Chainsaw Man is set to return with a brand-new, full-length sequel film—not a spin-off—raising anticipation across the fanbase. And we can’t overlook the major news that eight short stories by the same manga creator, Tatsuki Fujimoto, will also be adapted into anime, Tatsuki Fujimoto 17–26, further fueling excitement for 2025.

In addition, Jujutsu Kaisen is set to release two re-edited films with new content added, directly tied to the TV series—making this a landmark year for the franchise.

Add to that upcoming films from beloved series like Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid and Zombie Land Saga, and it’s clear: 2025 is a year that promises something for every anime fan.

If you’re looking for recommendations on the best anime series airing or streaming in 2025 that aren’t covered in this article, be sure to check out this list ▶︎ List of the Best Anime Series to Watch in 2025

Best Anime Movies Released in 2025

Now, let’s take a look at the best anime movies of 2025. This list is presented in ranking format—based on anticipation levels for unreleased titles and actual reviews for those already released. Be sure to check out the most highly rated films worth watching, as well as upcoming anime movies to keep an eye on.

1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle (Part 1: Akaza Returns)

The latest anime movie of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, one of the most socially impactful anime series in history, is Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle (劇場版「鬼滅の刃」無限城編). For anyone interested in anime today, this is an unmissable title. The series began with its 26-episode first season in 2019, followed by the 2020 release of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train, which covered the equivalent of 7 episodes. The second season, Entertainment District Arc, ran for 11 episodes, while the third season, Swordsmith Village Arc, also consisted of 11 episodes. Most recently, the fourth season, Hashira Training Arc, was aired and distributed with 8 episodes.

Now, the story continues into its final act with Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle, which has been announced as a trilogy. In terms of content, this adaptation is expected to cover the equivalent of about 20 to 30 episodes. The long-standing battle between Tanjiro and the Demon Slayer Corps and their ultimate enemy, the demon king Muzan Kibutsuji, reaches its climax. Just when it seems that Tanjiro and the Hashira members have finally cornered Muzan, they fall into his trap instead.

This highly anticipated installment will show intense battles between the strongest Hashira and the most powerful demons Twelve Kizuki. Fans are eager to see who will face off against whom. Additioanally, for readers of the original manga, a major point of interest will be whether the anime addresses unresolved plot points that were not covered in the completed manga. The beginning of the grand finale of one of the best anime in recent years kicks off in 2025. Don’t miss it.

Release date: July 18, 2025

Official website: https://kimetsu.com/anime/mugenjyohen_movie/

▶︎For more details on Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle, please check here.

2. Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc

Chainsaw Man, one of the most shocking but acclaimed dark-fantasy anime in 2020s, can be one the best anime movie of 2025, which is titled Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc (劇場版 チェンソーマン レゼ篇). Based on the hit manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto, the first season of the Chainsaw Man was broadcast with 12 episodes in 2022, produced by Mappa. As a sequel to the first season, Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc enters a new story arc featuring a new girl character Reze.

After defeating the Samurai Sword, Denji meets a girl named Reze while working at a cafe. As they spend more time together, their bond deepens. For the first time since developing feelings for Makima, Denji finds himself truly drawn to Reze as a woman. But who is she, really? Is she a friend or a foe? The release date of this anime film has been announced as around the time of a typhoon in 2025, a reference to the story’s setting. This strongly suggests a summer premiere.

Release date: September 19, 2025

Official website: https://chainsawman.dog/movie_reze/

▶︎For more details on Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, please check here.

3. Scarlet

One of Japan’s most renowned anime directors, Mamoru Hosoda, is returning with a new anime movie in 2025. Titled Scarlet (果てしなきスカーレット), it will be his first feature since 2021’s Belle.

Known for acclaimed works like The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Wolf Children, and Mirai, Hosoda has built a reputation through emotionally grounded, slice-of-life stories. With Scarlet, which appears to blend historical themes with fantasy elements on a global scale, it’s hard to predict exactly what kind of achievement he will deliver—but expectations are certainly high.

After failing to avenge her father, Princess Scarlet awakens in the Land of the Dead—a brutal world where the weak vanish into “nothingness.” Learning that her enemy, her uncle Claudius who murdered her father, is also there, she renews her vow for revenge. During her journey, Scarlet meets Hijiri, a nurse from modern-day Japan. Though they clash at first, they travel together, their bond growing as Hijiri’s kindness begins to thaw Scarlet’s frozen heart.

Meanwhile, Claudius seeks to seize control of a mythical place within the Land of the Dead, sending assassins to eliminate Scarlet. Facing deadly threats, Scarlet and Hijiri continue their journey toward this fabled destination—where a fateful decision awaits.

Release date: November 21, 2025

Official website: https://scarlet-movie.jp/

4. Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death

Jujutsu Kaisen, which made headlines last year when its original manga reached its conclusion, is set to release a new movie titled Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death (劇場版総集編 呪術廻戦 懐玉・玉折) in May 2025. This film serves as a compilation of episodes that have already aired in the second season of the anime. However, given the high quality and popularity of these five episodes, bringing them together into a single cinematic experience makes perfect sense.

The Jujutsu Kaisen anime first aired its first season from 2020 to 2021, followed by the second season in 2023. Out of the 23 episodes in the second season, the first 5 are now reimagined as a movie. And, this is second Jujutsu Kaisen film, following the release of Jujutsu Kaisen 0 in 2021.

The story explores the past of Satoru Gojo, a teacher of the protagonist Yuji Itadori and now known as the strongest jujutsu sorcerer. It delves into how he became so powerful and the shifting dynamics of his relationship with Suguru Geto, who was once his classmate but later became his greatest enemy. The film features intense battle scenes, unexpected plot twists, and even lighthearted slice-of-life comedic moments. They have made this storyline a favorite among Jujutsu Kaisen fans. As the franchise moves toward future arcs, why not take a moment in 2025 to relive the very best of Jujutsu Kaisen?

Release date: May 30, 2025

Official website: https://jujutsukaisen.jp/kaigyokugyokusetsu/

5. Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution – Shibuya Incident x The Culling Game Begins

It has officially been announced that Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 will air in 2026. Alongside the announcement, a special theatrical release has also been confirmed for this November in Japan: Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution – Shibuya Incident x The Culling Game Begins (劇場版 呪術廻戦「渋谷事変 特別編集版」×「死滅回游 先行上映」).

While it isn’t a completely new standalone anime film, it will re-edit part of the series and include an early preview of the upcoming season—much like Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death, which was released in May. For dedicated fans, it’s a highly valuable experience that offers an early glimpse into what’s next.

In the Shibuya Incident, Satoru Gojo, the strongest jujutsu sorcerer of the modern era, enters the scene alone—but waiting for him are cursed spirits and sorcerers intent on sealing him away. Meanwhile, Yuji Itadori and numerous other jujutsu sorcerers gather in Shibuya, setting the stage for an unprecedented large-scale battle.

The chaos only escalates as the deadly “Culling Game,” a survival contest orchestrated by the most sinister sorcerer in history, Noritoshi Kamo, begins. Amid the turmoil, Yuji finds himself facing Yuta Okkotsu, a special grade sorcerer tasked with carrying out his execution.

Release date: November 7, 2025

Official website: https://jujutsukaisen.jp/

6. Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26

The anime adaptations of works by Tatsuki Fujimoto, currently one of the most globally watched manga artists, show no signs of slowing down. Eight of his short stories, created between the ages of 17 and 26, are being adapted all at once into anime under the title Tatsuki Fujimoto 17–26. The series will be exclusively released worldwide on Amazon Prime Video starting November 8, 2025.

Each story is handled by a different animation team, with an impressive lineup of voice actors and staff. Several up-and-coming studios are also participating, including the newly established Graph77, which is making its production debut with Shikaku, one of these titles.

Following the critically acclaimed 2024 anime adaptation of Look Back, 2025 will also see the release of Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, continuing the unstoppable rise of Fujimoto’s works. With titles like Fire Punch, the series that first brought him widespread attention, and his 2022 short Goodbye, Eri still waiting for adaptation, it’s only a matter of time before they too receive the anime treatment.

Comment from original creator Tatsuki Fujimoto:
When I heard that works I created back in my student days were going to be adapted into anime, I couldn’t help but wonder if it was really okay. I worried whether they might just be pieces entirely dependent on someone else’s inspiration.
But even though I haven’t seen them yet, I believe that, thanks to the talented directors bringing them to life, they’ve been turned into proper works.

Release date: November 8, 2025

Official website: https://fujimototatsuki17-26.com/

▽Introduction to Each Title▽

– A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin’ in the Schoolyard (庭には二羽ニワトリがいた。)

Story Summary:
Humanity was believed to have gone extinct after losing a war against aliens.　On the now alien-inhabited Earth, a young alien student named Yohei takes care of two chickens at school. But these chickens are hiding a secret.

Studio: Zexcs
Original Manga Published: 2017

– Sasaki Stopped a Bullet (佐々木くんが銃弾止めた)

Story Summary:
During spring break, a student named Sasaki joins a makeup class, driven by his desire to see his homeroom teacher, Mr. Kawaguchi. Suddenly, gunshots ring out. A man appears in the classroom—the very one who was once rejected by Mr. Kawaguchi.

Studio: Lapin Track
Original Manga Published: 2016

– Love is Blind (恋は盲目)

Story Summary:
On the day before high school graduation, student council president Ibuki asks Yuri—the girl he has secretly loved for years—to walk home with him. He plans to finally confess his feelings, but unexpected obstacles keep getting in the way of their journey home!

Studio: Lapin Track
Original Manga Published: 2014

– Shikaku (シカク)

Story Summary:
Shikaku is a young girl known far and wide as a skilled assassin. Yugeru, a vampire who has lived an immortal life for 3,500 years, grows weary of his endless existence and hires Shikaku to kill him.

Studio: Graph77
Original Manga Published: 2014

– Mermaid Rhapsody (人魚ラプソディ)

Story Summary:
Toshihide, a boy living in a seaside town, treasures an old piano that was thrown into the ocean. One day, while playing the piano as usual, he encounters Shiju—a mermaid girl who had been secretly listening to his music.

Studio: 100studio
Original Manga Published: 2014

– Nayuta of the Prophecy (予言のナユタ)

Story Summary:
Kenji’s younger sister, Nayuta, is feared and shunned by those around her as a child prophesied to bring about the end of the world. One day, she finally causes a major incident…

Studio: 100studio
Original Manga Published: 2015

– Woke-Up-as-a-Girl Syndrome (目が覚めたら女の子になっていた病)

Story Summary:
One day, Toshihide wakes up to find that he has turned into a girl. Targeted by the boys in class who begin bullying him, Toshihide is saved by an unexpected ally—Akira, the older brother of his girlfriend, Rie.

Studio: Studio Kafka
Original Manga Published: 2017

– Sisters (妹の姉)

Story Summary:
One morning, when Mitsuko arrives at her art school, she’s shocked to find a nude portrait of herself displayed at the entrance! The painting was created by her younger sister, Kyoko, and is set to be exhibited for an entire year. Determined to reclaim her dignity, Mitsuko decides to take action…

Studio: P.A.Works
Original Manga Published: 2018

7. Zombie Land Saga: Yumeginga Paradise

A new entry in the unconventional idol anime series is hitting the big screen. Zombie Land Saga: Yumeginga Paradise (劇場版『ゾンビランドサガ ゆめぎんがパラダイス』) is set to premiere on October 24 as an anime movie. The Zombie Land Saga series began in 2018 as an original anime and quickly gained attention for its unique premise and the high production quality of studio Mappa. With the second season airing in 2021, the series now totals just 24 episodes, but it’s become a title any anime fan would recognize.

This anime stands out for two main reasons. First, while it belongs to the ever-popular idol genre, its idols are actually zombies resurrected from the dead—a twist that blends emotional growth and humor in a compelling way. Second, the series is deeply rooted in Saga Prefecture, portraying the region with a mix of affection and self-deprecating humor. Despite its strong local flavor, or perhaps because of it, the series has won the hearts of Saga’s residents. And of course, it’s an anime that can be enjoyed by viewers from around the world.

In Yumeginga Paradise, the story takes an even more cosmic turn. Set in the year 2025, the world is buzzing with excitement over the upcoming Saga Expo. Franchouchou—the zombie idol group resurrected by the mysterious producer Kotaro Tatsumi—has been chosen as official ambassadors for the event. As they prepare to deliver the greatest performance of their undead careers, an unknown force threatens not just Saga, but the fate of the entire planet. What will become of Saga? What will become of Earth?! Thus begins an unprecedented, galaxy-sized festival movie like no other.

Release date: October 24, 2025

Official website: https://zombielandsaga-movie.com/

▶︎For more details on Zombie Land Saga: Yumeginga Paradise, please check here.

8. Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid: A Lonely Dragon Wants to Be Loved

The latest part in the beloved fantasy slice-of-life anime series from Kyoto Animation is Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid: A Lonely Dragon Wants to Be Loved (小林さんちのメイドラゴン さみしがりやの竜). To be honest, it’s unlikely this film will be considered the best anime movie of 2025 by most viewers. However, that has less to do with the film’s quality and more with its nature as a spin-off entry. For fans of the original Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid (which began airing in 2017) and its 2021 second season, this Kanna-centered story is nothing short of sublime. The film is directed by Tatsuya Ishihara, who also helmed Season 2 (Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid S).

Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid is a heartwarming comedy about an ordinary office worker, Miss Kobayashi, who ends up living with a dragon named Tohru in maid form. As more quirky dragons join their daily life, the story blends fantasy and slice-of-life humor. In Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid: A Lonely Dragon Wants to Be Loved, one day, a surprise visitor appears before Kanna, a young dragon living with them. Shockingly, it’s her real father, which is an encounter that could change everything.

Release date: June 27, 2025

Official website: https://maidragon.jp/movie/

9. Detective Conan: One-Eyed Flashback

A brand-new anime film from a long-running series, now an annual trasdition, is set to hit theaters once again this year. Detective Conan, known as Case Closed in North America, is a legendary detective manga with 100 volumes and its anime series that has been airing since 1996. In 2025, it returns with its 28th anime movie title, Detective Conan: One-Eyed Flashback (名探偵コナン 隻眼の残像), premiering this spring.

The trailer has revealed that the film takes place in a snowy mountain setting. While the main characters, of course, make an appearance, the story focuses on the Nagano Prefecture Police members Kansuke Yamato, Takaaki Morofushi and Yui Uehara. Most notably, this movie partly centers around Kogoro Mori, a rare occurrence in the series. It is the first time Kogoro takes on a central role in a Detective Conan movie since the 9th film Detective Conan: Strategy Above the Depths released in 2005.

Although Conan’s films may seem like standalone spin-offs, they often conrain crucial elements that tie into the main story. For newcomers, catching up on past episodes before watching this movie may feel overwhelming. However, for those who get hooked, it promises an outstanding mystery experience. That being said, one of Detective Conan’s biggest strengths is that even without prior knowledge of past episodes, you can still enjoy each movie to a certain extent.

Release date: April 18, 2025

Official website: https://www.conan-movie.jp/2025/

10. KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World! 3 -Bonus Stage-

KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World! 3 -Bonus Stage- (この素晴らしい世界に祝福を！3 ―BONUS STAGE―) isn’t a full-length anime film in the traditional sense, but rather a theatrical release made up of two brand-new OVA episodes. That said, KonoSuba has been a global fan favorite since its first season aired in 2016, making this a must-watch addition to the 2025 anime movie lineup. With Season 3 released in 2024, the series is still going strong—so don’t miss this fresh spin-off while the hype is alive. Its lighthearted humor and isekai setting also make it a perfect entry point for newcomers to anime.

In one tale, Kazuma’s party is called upon to face a looming typhoon, with Megumin’s explosive magic at the center of a high-spirited mission. In another, a mysterious adventurer seeks the legendary “Kazuma Satou,” leading to a comical twist as stories blur the line between truth and illusion. Two light-hearted adventures unfold in the whimsical world of KonoSuba.

Release date: March 14, 2025

Official website: https://konosuba.com/3rd/ova/

Looking Back at the Anime Movies of 2024

Looking back at last year, it was truly a thrilling year for anime movie fans. Several highly anticipated films made a huge impact: Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle, a sequel to the popular TV series, became a box office hit; the two-part adaptation of the acclaimed manga Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction captured audiences’ attention; The Colors Within, the latest film from a renowned director, made waves; and Look Back stood out as one of the most compelling short movies.

For more modern finest anime movies in these few years, check these articles below!

▶︎ 7 Best Anime Movies of 2024 from The Colors Within to Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction

▶︎ 11 Best Anime Movies of 2023 from The Boy and the Heron to Spy x Family Code: White

▶︎ 10 Best Anime Movies of 2022 from Suzume to One Piece Film: Red

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This article will be updated with additional titles every time a new renowned anime movie is released.

It should now be clear that 2025 will be a significant year for many anime fans. At the same time, looking back at the history of anime films, the works introduced above are just a small fraction of the many great works out there. If you want to explore the best anime movies of all time, be sure to check out this list ▶︎ 30 Best Anime Movies of All Time

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