Best Anime Movies of 2026: Must-Watch Titles for Anime Fans
From long-awaited sequels to bold original films, here are the anime movies defining 2026
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We have selected high-quality movies that feature fresh elements unique to anime in 2026. Our picks also include highly anticipated titles such as sequels to popular series and works by renowned studios and directors.
While some titles have yet to be released, others are anime films already available worldwide and ready to watch at home right now. Please use this list as your go-to watch guide.
For anime TV series airing in 2026, be sure to check out this related article as well.
1. 100 Meters
100 Meters (ひゃくえむ。) is an anime film that has been well received since its global release on Netflix in late December 2025. Notably, the original manga was created by Uoto, best known for Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, a 25-episode anime series that captivated many fans throughout 2024–2025.
This is far more than a simple coming-of-age story. It portrays universal realities, especially the parts where life does not go as planned, so vividly that many viewers may feel it reflects a part of their own lives. It is truly a recommended anime film to watch in 2026.
Synopsis:
Togashi, born with exceptional speed, has always had both friends and a place where he belongs. Komiyama, a transfer student, runs desperately simply to escape from a painful reality. Togashi teaches Komiyama how to run faster, and the two begin training together after school.
As Komiyama finds something he can devote himself to, he grows increasingly obsessed with breaking records. Gradually, through the 100-meter sprint, the two form a bond that is both rivalry and deep friendship.
Several years later, Togashi has earned fame as a genius sprinter, yet he lives in fear of the pressure to keep winning. One day, Komiyama—now one of the top sprinters himself—appears before him once again…
Release: September 19, 2025 (Japan) / December 31, 2025 (Worldwide)
Runtime: 106 min
Recommended for Viewers who enjoy grounded coming-of-age stories, sports dramas with emotional depth, and anime that quietly reflects the struggles and realities of growing up.
2. Cosmic Princess Kaguya!
Cosmic Princess Kaguya! (超かぐや姫!) is an anime film that unexpectedly captured the hearts of anime fans after its Netflix debut in January, despite having little pre-release buzz. While it taps into contemporary themes such as virtual worlds and VTubers, its appeal goes far beyond trends.
With high-quality character designs, a humor-filled script, lively and playful animation, and carefully observed depictions of everyday life, the film feels like a crystallization of what defines anime in the 2020s.
It also marks the feature-length directorial debut of Shingo Yamashita, known for creating the opening animations for Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man. At 142 minutes, it runs longer than most recent anime films, yet never once feels its length. If asked to recommend just one anime movie to watch in 2026, this title would be the clear front-runner.
Synopsis:
In the near future, just a little ahead of our time. Seventeen-year-old Iroha Sakayori attends a prestigious high school in Tokyo while juggling her studies and a part-time job, leaving her perpetually busy. Her daily escape is watching streams by Yachiyo Lunami, the administrator of the online virtual world Tsukuyomi and a hugely popular live streamer.
In Tsukuyomi, a virtual space where anyone can create an avatar and freely express themselves, Iroha supports Yachiyo as a devoted fan while earning a bit of pocket money by playing battle games.
One evening on her way home, Iroha comes across a mysterious, rainbow-colored glowing utility pole. From inside emerges an unbelievably cute baby. Unable to leave it behind, she takes the baby home, only to watch it rapidly grow into a girl about her own age. “Could you be Princess Kaguya?”
Release: Janaury 22, 2026
Runtime: 142 min
Recommended for Anime fans looking for something genuinely new, creative, and distinctly modern, especially those interested in virtual worlds, online culture, and visually inventive storytelling.
3. Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie -Walpurgisnacht Rising-
The latest entry in the Puella Magi Madoka Magica series, Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie: Walpurgisnacht Rising (劇場版 魔法少女まどか☆マギカ〈ワルプルギスの廻天〉), a continuation of the highly acclaimed 2011 TV series that enjoys especially strong support from core anime fans, is once again drawing attention this year. The reason for saying “once again” is that the film was originally scheduled for release in winter 2024, but after multiple delays, its premiere has now been pushed back to February 2026.
Given the amount of time being spent on its production, expectations are high that the film’s quality is being refined to the highest level. More than anything, it clearly reflects the all-out commitment of Studio Shaft and director Akiyuki Shinbo to deliver a definitive anime feature.
Since more than a decade has passed since the release of the previous film, Rebellion (2013), this is the perfect opportunity to revisit the series so you are ready whenever the new movie arrives. To catch up, it is recommended to watch the three films: Beginnings and Eternal, which re-edit the original 12-episode TV series into two movies, followed by their sequel, Rebellion.
Synopsis:
This film is a direct sequel to Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie: Rebellion. Apart from the trailer, almost no story details have been revealed in advance, making it very much a watch-and-discover experience. Enjoy the new installment spoiler-free.
Release: Originally scheduled for February 2026, now officially delayed
Runtime: TBA
Recommended for Fans of the original Puella Magi Madoka Magica series, and viewers who appreciate dark, psychologically intense narratives hidden beneath a magical girl aesthetic.
4. Grotesqqque
Although Grotesqqque (GROTESQQQUE-グロテスク-) has been announced for a 2026 release, it remains one of the most enigmatic and highly anticipated titles on the slate. What is known so far is that it is an animated feature composed of three short films, each set in a different world, but beyond what is shown in the trailer, concrete details have not been disclosed.
That said, the trailer and the creative team alone are enough to raise expectations, making it fair to say that this title will be one of the must-watch anime movies to watch in 2026. The production is handled by CloverWorks, the studio behind Spy × Family and the Rascal Does Not Dream series. The director, Atsushi Nishigori, is also a major draw, having served as director of Darling in the Franxx and as chief animation director for Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time
Synopsis:
Grotesqqque consists of three completely original anime works: Aeliens (エリィアンズ), 4649 Girl (夜露死駆★少女), and Nocturn: En Cette Nuit Grotesque (ノクターン～このグロテスクな夜に～). Further details are yet to be revealed, so for now, all we can do is await future announcements.
Release: 2026
Runtime: TBA
Recommended for Experimental anime lovers who enjoy bold visuals, unconventional storytelling, and anthology-style films that challenge expectations and reward curiosity.
5. The Dangers in My Heart: The Movie
Following the success of Seasons 1 and 2, which aired in 2023 and 2024, the popular romantic comedy series The Dangers in My Heart is getting an anime film release this February, titled The Dangers in My Heart: The Movie (劇場版 僕の心のヤバイやつ). Among the recent wave of slice-of-life romantic comedies, this title stands out for its exceptionally high quality, with especially strong appeal in its characters and its polished, visually expressive animation.
The movie is structured as a combination of a re-edited version of the TV anime series and newly produced footage that continues the story beyond the previous seasons. As such, it is a must-watch for existing fans, while newcomers who enjoy romantic comedies may also want to start with Season 1 before diving in.
Synopsis:
The TV anime series is re-edited from Ichikawa’s perspective, staying closely attuned to the emotions hidden deep within his heart and vividly portraying their subtle fluctuations. It powerfully captures the value of courage that is mustered even while trembling, leaving a striking impression on the big screen.
In addition, the film features completely new scenes never shown on TV, including events that take place after Season 2, such as Kana’s live performance and a special moment shared with Yamada.
Release: February 13, 2026
Runtime: 101 min
Recommended for Fans of heartfelt romantic comedies, character-driven stories, and viewers who enjoy tender portrayals of adolescence and emotional growth.
6. The Apothecary Diaries: The Movie
The Apothecary Diaries (薬屋のひとりごと) has become one of the fastest-rising anime series in global popularity over the past few years. The series is defined by its unique world-building, blending a classic rise-from-the-bottom protagonist arc with court politics and suspenseful mystery elements. The very first anime movie in The Apothecary Diaries franchise is scheduled for release in December 2026.
Based on the light novel series by Hyuganatsu, the anime adaptation began in 2023. Season 2 aired in 2025, and it has already been confirmed that Season 3 will air across 2026 and 2027.
The anime film announced for 2026 is not a direct continuation of the TV series, but instead is built around a completely original story written by the original author. This means even fans of the light novels will be treated to an experience they have never seen before. Moreover, despite not being a straightforward sequel, the film is far from a simple spin-off and may have meaningful implications for the main storyline itself.
Release: December 2026
Runtime: TBA
Recommended for Viewers who enjoy smart historical settings, mystery-driven plots, strong female leads, and richly detailed worlds with political and social intrigue.
For more in-depth anime knowledge and the latest news, be sure to check out the article below.
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Hi! I’m a writer and editor at Japan Web Magazine. Since 2017, I’ve written over 500 articles covering a wide range of Japan-related topics—must-visit travel spots, local food culture, helpful travel tips, seasonal events, anime, manga, and more. I travel all over Japan, from the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido to the tropical beaches of Okinawa. My hobbies, such as hunting for the best ramen shops and keeping up with the latest anime every season, help me share the magic of Japan with people from all over the world. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Japan fan planning your dream trip, I want to help you experience the best of what this country has to offer. After traveling to many countries around the world, I still love Japan the most, and I continue to share information while making the most of my perspective as someone who was born and raised here. [Connect with me] ▷You can find more of my writing and follow my latest thoughts on Japan over on Medium. A bit more about me: [Traveler at heart] ▷Most unforgettable trip: Chichijima Island, a remote island that takes over 23 hours to reach by ferry from Tokyo! ▷Favorite neighborhood in Tokyo: Kichijoji [Foodie life] ▷Obsessed with sushi and ramen ▷Proud foodie moment: Scored a seat at the legendary Sukiyabashi Jiro [Passionate otaku] ▷Favorite anime: March Comes in Like a Lion and Attack on Titan ▷My Best Anime ▷Manga I live by: One Piece and Slam Dunk ▷My Best Manga
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