New Releases Unveiled at Anime Expo 2025
Anime Expo 2025 once again shined with six cinematic premiere announcements that reflect the continuous evolution of anime.
From experimental feature films to highly anticipated sequels and original adaptations, these productions aim to surprise and thrill audiences.
With releases scheduled for 2025 and 2026, we review the details of each title coming soon to screens.
GROTESQQQUE
The Latest from Atsushi Nishigori and CloverWorks
Release Date: First half of 2026 (Japan)
Atsushi Nishigori, director of DARLING in the FRANXX, presents GROTESQQQUE, an ambitious cinematic project divided into three parts: ÆLIENS, 4649GIRL, and NOCTURN: EN CETTE NUIT GROTESQUE.
Produced by CloverWorks under the creative direction of JOEN (an alliance between WIT Studio, Shueisha, Aniplex, and CloverWorks), the film combines distinct narrative styles and separate worlds.
It is expected to revolutionize experimental anime in cinemas.
Additionally, JOEN aims to improve working conditions in the industry by prioritizing the well-being of creators and the quality of the 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 cinema.
Directed by Yuichi Fukuda, with his own screenplay and animation by BN Pictures, this film brings together the original voice cast.
The trailer featured the promotional captain singing alongside Soshina.
The film promises a mix of nostalgia, comedy, and amphibious action.
Fumitoshi Oizaki and Satoshi Koike collaborate on the direction and character design.
Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc
Release Date: September 19 (Japan), September 24 (other countries)
The highly anticipated cinematic sequel to Chainsaw Man, focusing on the Reze arc, has released a trailer featuring the song “IRIS OUT” by Kenshi Yonezu.
Directed by Tatsuya Yoshihara, with a screenplay by Hiroshi Seko and animation by MAPPA, new characters and voice actors such as Hidenori Takahashi and Eri Kitamura have been incorporated.
MAPPA combines veteran talent and rising stars to bring this explosive story to life.
Crunchyroll is expected to distribute it internationally.
Scarlet
Fantasy and Death by 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.
The 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 screenplay 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 romantic comedy elements with references to the VTuber world.
Eisen Flügel
Dragons and Warplanes
Release Date: To be confirmed (expected in 2026)
Based on Gen Urobuchi's light novel, Eisen Flügel follows Karl Schnitz, a pilot of the first jet plane who seeks to overcome the terrifying Kaiser Drache.
Directed by Seiji Mizushima and Daizen Komatsuda, with animation by A-1 Pictures and music by Yuki Kajiura, the film promises to be a steampunk epic with war and existential undertones.
The revealed trailer made an impact with its epic scale and aerial combat design.
New Animated Films Coming Soon
Anime Expo 2025 defined the anime cinematic 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 film enthusiasts.
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