Anime Expo 2025 shined once again with six theatrical release announcements that reflect the ongoing evolution of anime.
From experimental feature films to highly anticipated sequels and original adaptations, these productions aim to surprise and excite audiences.
With releases planned for 2025 and 2026, we review the details of each title coming soon.
GROTESQQQUE
The latest from Atsushi Nishigori and CloverWorks
Release date: First half of 2026 (Japan)
DARLING in the FRANXX director Atsushi Nishigori presents GROTESQQQUE, an ambitious film project divided into three parts: ÆLIENS, 4649GIRL and NOCTURN: EN CETTE NUIT GROTESQUE.
Produced by CloverWorks under the creative direction of JOEN (a partnership between WIT Studio, Shueisha, Aniplex and CloverWorks), the film combines distinct narrative styles and separate worlds.
It is expected to revolutionize experimental anime in theaters.
In addition, JOEN aims to improve working conditions in the industry by prioritizing the well-being of creators and the quality of their work.
Sgt. Frog
20 years of intergalactic humor
Release date: Second half of 2026 (Japan)
To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Sgt. Frog (Keroro Gunsou) returns to the big screen.
Directed by Yuichi Fukuda, with his own script and animation by BN Pictures, this film reunites the original voice cast.
The trailer showed the promotional captain singing alongside Soshina.
The film promises a mix of nostalgia, comedy and amphibious action.
Fumitoshi Oizaki and Satoshi Koike collaborate on direction and character design.
Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc
Release Date: September 19 (Japan), September 24 (other countries)
The highly anticipated Chainsaw Man sequel, centered on the Reze arc, has unveiled a trailer featuring Kenshi Yonezu's song "IRIS OUT."
Directed by Tatsuya Yoshihara, with a script by Hiroshi Seko and animation by MAPPA, new characters and seiyuus such as Hidenori Takahashi and Eri Kitamura are incorporated.
MAPPA combines veteran talent and promising young talent to bring this explosive story to life.
Crunchyroll is expected to distribute it internationally.
Scarlet
Fantasy and death according to Mamoru Hosoda
Release Date: November 21, 2025 (Japan)
Mamoru Hosoda returns with Scarlet, an original epic produced by Studio Chizu.
Mana Ashida plays Princess Scarlet and Masaki Okada plays Hijiri, a modern man who accompanies her on a journey through the Land of the Dead.
The story blends mythology, existential drama, and an emotional journey through the afterlife.
Visual art and music accompany a deeply poetic narrative.
Toi-san wa Seishun Shitai!
Romance, humor and virtual reality
Release Date: July 18, 2025 (Japan)
Based on Jel's web shorts, this film blends animation and live action.
Antony (comedian from Matenrou) plays Jel in the flesh.
Directed by Mankyu with a script by Yoichi Kato, music by Hiromi Mizutani and animation by Seven Arcs, the story follows Akane Toi, a student who joins an eccentric romance club.
The film combines elements of romantic comedy with references to the VTuber world.
Eisen Flügel
Dragons and warplanes
Release date: To be confirmed (scheduled for 2026)
Based on the light novel by Gen Urobuchi, Eisen Flügel follows Karl Schnitz, pilot of the first jet plane to outrun the fearsome Kaiser Drache.
Directed by Seiji Mizushima and Daizen Komatsuda, with animation by A-1 Pictures and music by Yuki Kajiura, the film is shaping up to be a steampunk epic with warlike and existential overtones.
The trailer revealed awe-inspiring results for its epic scale and aerial combat design.
New animated films coming soon
Anime Expo 2025 defined the anime cinema landscape with announcements covering science fiction, drama, comedy, fantasy, and supernatural action.
Titles like GROTESQQQUE, Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc, and Scarlet are poised to become major hits, while Toi-san and Sgt. Frog appeal to broad audiences with their humor and romance.
Japanese animation continues to push creative boundaries, consolidating 2025 and 2026 as key years for anime fans.
Don't forget to check out our collection of anime products and more .
