There are two full-length animated feature films based on Yoshihiro Togashi’s popular manga and anime series, Hunter x Hunter. Both movies were released in Japan and later subtitled and dubbed for international audiences.
Delving Deeper into the Hunter x Hunter Filmography
Hunter x Hunter, with its complex characters, intricate power system, and captivating storyline, has amassed a global fanbase eager for any and all content. While the primary attraction remains the manga and the two anime adaptations, the films offer a unique, standalone experience within the Hunter x Hunter universe. These movies, while not considered strictly canon, provide valuable insight into the characters and explore compelling side stories. Understanding their place within the larger narrative can significantly enhance your overall Hunter x Hunter appreciation.
Understanding the Context: Manga and Anime
Before diving into the movies, it’s crucial to understand the relationship between the manga, the 1999 anime, and the 2011 anime. The manga is the source material. The 1999 anime, produced by Nippon Animation, covered a significant portion of the initial story arc. The 2011 anime, produced by Madhouse, offers a more faithful and comprehensive adaptation of the manga, concluding with the end of the Chimera Ant arc. The movies are generally considered to exist outside the main continuity of either anime series. They present self-contained narratives featuring familiar characters in new situations.
Identifying the Two Movies
The two Hunter x Hunter movies are:
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Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge (劇場版 HUNTER×HUNTER 緋色の幻影, Gekijōban Hantā Hantā: Hiiro no Gen’ei): Released in Japan in 2013. This film focuses on Kurapika’s quest for vengeance against the Phantom Troupe for their massacre of his clan, the Kurta.
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Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission (劇場版 HUNTER×HUNTER -The LAST MISSION-, Gekijōban Hantā Hantā: The Last Mission): Released in Japan in 2013. This film delves into the dark history of the Hunter Association and introduces a powerful new enemy with ties to the organization’s past.
Unraveling the Mystery: Addressing Common Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to further clarify your understanding of the Hunter x Hunter movies:
FAQ 1: Are the Hunter x Hunter Movies Canon?
The Hunter x Hunter movies are generally not considered canon to the main storyline presented in the manga and the 2011 anime adaptation. While they feature established characters and familiar elements of the Hunter x Hunter world, the events depicted are not directly referenced or integrated into the primary narrative. They are best viewed as standalone side stories.
FAQ 2: Where Can I Watch the Hunter x Hunter Movies?
Availability varies depending on your region. Commonly, you can find the movies through streaming services like Crunchyroll, Funimation, or through digital purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video or Google Play Movies. Check your local streaming services and digital storefronts for availability.
FAQ 3: Are the Hunter x Hunter Movies Worth Watching?
Despite not being canon, the movies are worth watching for fans of the series. They offer a chance to see familiar characters in new and exciting situations, explore different aspects of the Hunter x Hunter universe, and enjoy visually stunning animation. They also provide more character development, even if not strictly canonical.
FAQ 4: Which Hunter x Hunter Movie Should I Watch First?
It’s generally recommended to watch Phantom Rouge first, followed by The Last Mission. While the order doesn’t significantly impact the viewing experience, Phantom Rouge provides a more natural introduction to the characters and the established relationships within the series.
FAQ 5: Do I Need to Finish the Anime Before Watching the Movies?
It’s highly recommended to watch at least the first part of the 2011 anime (up to the end of the Yorknew City arc) before watching the movies. This ensures familiarity with the core characters, their relationships, and the world’s fundamental concepts like Nen.
FAQ 6: Are the Movies Available with English Dubs?
Yes, both Hunter x Hunter movies are available with English dubs. This makes them accessible to a wider audience and allows viewers to enjoy the films without having to focus on reading subtitles.
FAQ 7: Do the Movies Feature New Characters?
Yes, both movies introduce new characters that are unique to their respective storylines. These characters often have intriguing backstories and unique Nen abilities, adding depth and complexity to the narratives.
FAQ 8: Are the Movies as Good as the Anime Series?
The movies generally don’t reach the same level of critical acclaim as the anime series. While they offer entertaining and visually appealing experiences, they often lack the depth, complexity, and emotional resonance of the core storyline. However, they’re still enjoyable for dedicated fans.
FAQ 9: What is the Run Time of Each Hunter x Hunter Movie?
Both Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge and Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission have runtimes of approximately 97 minutes.
FAQ 10: Where Do the Movies Fit in the Hunter x Hunter Timeline?
The movies are best considered as non-canonical side stories that don’t directly impact the main storyline. They don’t have a specific place in the chronological timeline of the manga or anime.
FAQ 11: Who Created the Story for the Hunter x Hunter Movies?
While Yoshihiro Togashi is credited with the original work, the specific stories for the movies were written by different screenwriters. Phantom Rouge was written by Shoji Yonemura, and The Last Mission was written by Nobuaki Kishima. Togashi provided input and oversaw the production, ensuring the films maintained the spirit of his original creation.
FAQ 12: Will There Be More Hunter x Hunter Movies in the Future?
As of today, there are no confirmed plans for additional Hunter x Hunter movies. However, given the enduring popularity of the series, it’s always possible that new films could be produced in the future. Fans continue to hope for more content, and any developments will surely be widely publicized.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Hunter x Hunter Universe
While the Hunter x Hunter movies may not be essential viewing for understanding the core narrative, they offer a valuable opportunity to further immerse yourself in the Hunter x Hunter universe. By understanding their context and appreciating them as standalone stories, you can enhance your overall enjoyment of this beloved series. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and experience the world of Hunters on the big screen!