My Hero Academia: Youre Next Is a Fun, Aesthetic Marvel

Key Takeaways

• Setting during the most turbulent time in
  My Hero Academia
  ‘s story,
  You’re Next
  brings a unique narrative approach compared to previous films.
• The villain in the film mirrors All Might, hinting at themes of idolization, though perhaps not exploring them thoroughly enough.
• Despite some underdeveloped characters,
  You’re Next
  showcases Studio Bones’ exceptional animation and serves as a glorious tribute to their 25-year legacy.

As a long-time fan of Studio Bones and their captivating storytelling, I must say that “My Hero Academia: You’re Next” has truly been a celebration of this remarkable studio’s 25-year legacy. From the very first frame, it felt like a loving nod to their past works, with subtle homages hidden throughout the film.

As the seventh season of “My Hero Academia” comes to a close, fans worldwide are getting a special treat: the shōnen series’ newest cinematic experience – “My Hero Academia: Your Turn Now“. This is the penultimate film before the TV anime finishes in 2025, but if this is the final movie, it certainly ended on a high note, offering some of the most impressive spectacle ever seen within the franchise.

The movie “You’re Next” hails from Tensai Okamura, known for directing shows like “Darker than Black”, Season 1 of “Blue Exorcist”, “Seven Deadly Sins”, “Wolf’s Rain”, and the first “Naruto” film from 2004. Notably, this is the initial “My Hero Academia” film without Kenji Nagasaki at the helm. Nagasaki has been responsible for directing the TV anime during Seasons 1 through 3, and serving as chief director since then.

How You’re Next Sets Itself Apart from Past Shōnen Films

When it comes to the setting, the film “You’re Next” starts off in an engaging manner. Unlike typical shōnen films which are standalone and often avoid long-term plot conflicts, this isn’t feasible for “My Hero Academia” at this stage of its storyline. The country is in chaos and the heroes are right in the midst of the struggle to determine not just Japan’s future, but that of the entire world. Instead of trying to bypass or reverse these circumstances, as one might expect, “You’re Next” dives headfirst into them.

Between Episodes 142 and 143, the movie takes place, focusing on Izuku Midoriya and his classmates as they safeguard the nation, shielding civilians while capturing escapees and other malefactors. Considered independently, this film carries a message: These are superhero characters who’ve encountered failure, but even in its opening moments, it becomes evident that the upcoming generation of heroes remains resilient and determined.

Deku leads an exhilarating pursuit to capture a group of mischievous characters who stole resources from a nearby shelter. The eye-catching character designs, the villains’ distinct traits, and the fast-paced action create an impressive opening for the movie, which is just a taste of what’s to come throughout its duration. Well-crafted character introductions and the development of suspense set the stage for a robust start.

Enter, The “New” Symbol of Peace

The main theme in the movie You’re Next centers around an antagonist who shares the likeness of both appearance and voice with All Might, once the top hero, whom all principal characters have admired since their childhood. This villain, subsequently known as Dark Might, is unmasked to be Baldo Gorrini, a wealthy criminal mastermind. His twisted adoration for All Might led him to transform himself into an imitation that aimed to fill All Might’s role.

In this rephrased version: Anna Scervino, a girl possessing an extraordinary ability to amplify powers, has been abducted by the ominous Dark Might and his formidable Gorrini clan. To demonstrate their power, Dark Might publicly reveals himself in Japan, utilizing his quirk called “Alchemy” to convert a section of the city into a floating citadel that captures both civilians and heroes. The movie unfolds as our scattered heroes grapple with this fortress, rescuing innocents, and confronting the Gorrini crime family.

In the world depicted in this movie, where conflict is rampant, the loss of a symbol like All Might is deeply felt. Attempting to revive such an icon would likely lead to confusion about its purpose. Would a new “All Might” be broadly rejected or might the desire for redemption outweigh the warning signs? Although this question could be fascinating, the film instead swiftly portrays the former scenario.

How You’re Next Stacks Up To Past Films

In movies like these, the audience typically anticipates that the primary characters, who they have grown fond of, will not undergo significant transformations. This is because the most effective anime-original shonen films rely on their unique characters – whose destinies aren’t tied to a larger narrative – to give the story depth and direction. For instance, Two Heroes featured David and Melissa Shield, Heroes Rising showcased Mahoro and Katsuma Shimano, while World Heroes’ Mission focused on Rody Soul.

In this scenario, the viewers meet Giulio Gandini, who is technically accompanied by Anna Scervino. It’s clear that Giulio is quite an interesting character. He has a fantastic design, and his interactions with Deku become tense when their goals differ. However, what makes him intriguing isn’t so much his quirk but rather the cybernetic limbs he possesses. Unfortunately, Anna, though she may be technically present, doesn’t seem to add much emotional depth to Giulio’s story arc. Her character development might not be as captivating as one would hope.

Where You’re Next Falls Short of Its Peers

Anna is often controlled by Dark Might, and while flashbacks aim to reveal her true nature, they only scratch the surface. There are hints of a charming character in the portrayal, but we seldom get a chance to fully grasp it. By the conclusion, her princess-like appearance becomes the focal point of the artwork for the final battle, yet as a character, she remains shallow; essentially just a damsel in distress.

The villain, Dark Might, shares a sense of letdown much like mine. His most intriguing aspects lie in his deep-seated insecurities, yet these are scarcely delved into until the heart of the story’s climax. A chance was there to portray an abhorrent antagonist who has horribly misjudged and misused the man he claims to admire. However, Dark Might appears rather uninteresting until the third act, when he takes up his role as the final opponent. Even then, he remains a squandered potential.

A Spectacular Tribute to Studio Bones

This year marks Studio Bones’ 25th anniversary, and the current film seems to be the first where the impact of this milestone has been most noticeable since the start of the year. From a global perspective, it showcases the peak of Bones’ creative prowess – whether it’s seasoned artists like Okamura or fresh talents such as Kohei Hirota – pouring their hearts into their work. However, there are subtle elements that make You’re Next feel like a tribute to their previous masterpieces.

In a nod to Fullmetal Alchemist, Dark Might’s ability and animation style seem to pay tribute to the beloved anime. Characters such as Anna resemble Rose from FMA, particularly when her hair transforms into various colors. The character Giulio, who can neutralize other powers, is voiced by Mamoru Miyano, much like Osamu Dazai from Bungo Stray Dogs. This suggests that the creators aimed to honor multiple series within this film, rather than just focusing on a single one.

Regardless if the theory fits or not, the creative team finds a comfortable fit in a tale that showcases their abilities exceptionally well, much like they did with Darker than Black. In this new piece, director Okamura manages to revive some of that distinctive flair and original powers, truly impressively. Although it may not surpass My Hero Academia’s films in terms of greatness, it undeniably stands out as the most skillfully directed, giving due recognition to Nagasaki’s excellent work on the previous three films, without a doubt.

Another Round of Applause for the Animators

It seems that continually elevating the quality in each movie might eventually feel like an impossible task, as there’s only so high we can climb without it becoming overwhelming. However, I find You’re Next to be an exception; its climax is simply breathtaking among all the films I’ve seen. Kudos to Kohei Hirota, Yuki Hayashi, Shū Sugita, and everyone else involved in the animation – they have truly raised the bar for their studio with their exceptional work. They should be commended for such an honorable achievement.

And that praise for the whole crew needs to be stressed before addressing one animator in particular, lest this review be accused of forgetting them. By now it’s tradition that Yutaka Nakamura animates the final moment of every movie’s final fight, and here is no exception. The twist is that they almost convince you the battle is over… and then the real final fight begins. It’s not fair to call it the “final moment” – it’s practically an extended act belonging solely to Nakamura, in which his talents are stretched to their absolute limits. It is career-defining work.

Post-Yutapon Clarity; What to Make of the Film

My Hero Academia: Up Next

My Hero Academia: You’re Next is now playing in theaters.

Read More

• LUNC PREDICTION. LUNC cryptocurrency
• BTC PREDICTION. BTC cryptocurrency
• BICO PREDICTION. BICO cryptocurrency
• SOL PREDICTION. SOL cryptocurrency
• USD COP PREDICTION
• VANRY PREDICTION. VANRY cryptocurrency
• USD PHP PREDICTION
• USD CLP PREDICTION
• USD ZAR PREDICTION
• FJO PREDICTION. FJO cryptocurrency

2024-10-14 19:34