Ever since it was revealed of Crunchyroll’s merger with Funimation, the anime streaming giant has slowly been adding in the former’s library into their own. This included dubs, a new format, and now they’re branching into movies! The company announced during Crunchyroll Expo 2022 that classic anime movies such as Akira, Your Name, and more will be coming to their library as early as this month! As of now, the current release dates can be viewed below (though are subject to change and can vary in availability based on region).
August 11:
- Josee, the Tiger, and the Fish
- The Stranger by the Shore
- Human Lost
August 18th:
- Akira
- Your Name
August 25:
- Wolf Children
- The Boy and the Beast
- Sing a Bit of Harmony
September 21:
- Jujutsu Kaisen 0
Other movies have been also included into the announcement, but currently have no release dates as of yet. These films include Afro Samurai: Resurrection, Sing a Bit of Harmony, and the films from the Free!, Fairy Tail, PSYCHO-PASS, Code Geass, and Back Buter series. The movies will be releasing to the streaming service every Thursday, starting in August, and running through October.
An Anime Movie Marathon Right At Home
The streaming wars have absolutely shaken the anime industry for better or for worse. But one nice thing about this new announcement is the film accessibility. Some of these films were previously difficult to find on any streaming services, but now they’ll be dusted off and ready to find new audiences. It’s also much appreciated to see classics of old mixed in with the newer titles. Let’s take a look at some of them, shall we?
Akira
Released in 1988, Akira is a science fiction thriller that continues to stand out against anything you’ve ever seen. The film is set in the near future, in Neo-Tokyo. When Tetsuo, a member of a biker gang, finds himself developing telekinetic powers after a motorcycle accident, things get more than explosive. The film continues to be praised for its flawless traditional animation, spellbinding soundtrack, and a chaotic script; and as such continues to inspire creatives around the world. The film has been dubbed into English twice since its release in the United States. Currently, it is unclear which dub will be available for streaming (if at all). But considering Funimation’s previous 4K release of the film had both dubs, there’s a chance the streaming option might include both options as well as the original Japanese.
Your Name
Released in 2016, Your Name follows the story of a boy in the city and a girl in the country who one day wake up in each other's bodies! As the two try to figure out what’s happening, a major discovery is soon made that could change their lives forever. Your Name was an unexpected smash hit at the box office, claiming the title of the first anime not directed by Hayao Miyazaki to earn more than $100 million in Japanese theaters. The film also had a very successful theatrical run in the United States, currently Paramount is handling a live action remake. Funimation handled the English dub for this film, so it is also safe to bet that the English dub could be available for streaming upon its release.
Wolf Children
Released in 2012, Wolf Children tells the story of Hana, the mother of two very special children. The film is narrated by her daughter, Yuki, as we follow her through her life. In college, she comes across a special nameless young man, who reveals a big secret to her, he is the last of a race of Japanese wolves. After their two children are born, Yuki and Ame, a devastating incident leaves Hana alone to raise her strange children. Through trial after trial, Hana allows her love to guide her. Wolf Children is a story of motherhood and love that was praised by audiences and critics alike upon its release. The film was also dubbed by Funimation so chances are the English dub will be available for streaming along with the original Japanese.
These are just a few of the titles that will be available for viewers to enjoy. Are there any favorites among the titles? Any new? Whether you’re finally getting a chance to watch something new, or falling in love with a classic all over again, it looks like summer is going to go out with a bang for Crunchyroll!