Ever since it was revealed of Crunchyroll’s merger with Funimation, the anime streaming giant has been slowly adding the former’s library into its own. This included voiceovers, a new format, and now they’re getting into movies! The company announced at Crunchyroll Expo 2022 that classic animated films such as Akira, your name, and more will come to their library this month! As of now, current release dates can be viewed below (although they are subject to change and availability may vary by region).
August 11:
- Josée, the tiger and the fish
- The stranger from the shore
- lost human
August 18:
August 25:
- Wolf children
- The boy and the beast
- Sing a little harmony
September 21:
Other movies were also included in the announcement, but currently have no release date as of yet. These films include Afro Samurai: Resurrection, Sing a little harmonyand the movies of Free!, Fairy tale, PSYCHO PASS, Code Geassand Back Butt series. The films will air on the streaming service every Thursday, starting in August and running through October.
A marathon of animated films at home
The streaming wars have absolutely rocked the anime industry for better or worse. But one good thing about this new announcement is the film’s accessibility. Some of these movies were previously hard to find on all streaming services, but now they’ll be dusted off and ready to find new audiences. It’s also very popular to see old classics mixed in with newer titles. Let’s take a look at some of them, shall we?
Akira
Released in 1988, Akira is a sci-fi thriller that continues to stand out from anything you’ve seen before. The film takes place in the near future, in Neo-Tokyo. When Tetsuo, a member of a motorcycle 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, haunting soundtrack, and chaotic storyline. 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 unknown which dub will be available for streaming (if any). But given that Funimation’s previous 4K version of the movie had both dubs, it’s possible the streaming option will include both options as well as the original Japanese.
your name
Released in 2016, your name follows the story of a city boy and a country girl who wake up one day in each other’s bodies! As the two try to figure out what’s going on, a major discovery is soon made that could change their lives forever. your name was an unexpected box office hit, claiming the title as the first anime not directed by Hayao Miyazaki to earn over $100 million in Japanese theaters. The film was also a big theatrical success in the United States. Paramount is currently running a live-action remake. Funimation handled the English dub for this film, so it’s also safe to bet that the English dub could be available to stream upon 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 middle school, she meets a special, unnamed young man, who reveals a big secret to her, he is the last of a race of Japanese wolves. After the birth of their two children, Yuki and Ame, a devastating incident leaves Hana alone to raise her strange children. From trial to trial, Hana lets her love guide her. Wolf children is a story of motherhood and love that received critical acclaim upon its release. The movie was also dubbed by Funimation, so chances are the English dub will be available to stream 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 news? Whether you finally get the chance to watch something new or fall in love with a classic all over again, it looks like the summer is going to end on a high for Crunchyroll!