Currently, there are three My Hero Academia movies that have been officially released in theaters worldwide. Each film expands upon the anime series, offering unique storylines and showcasing the growth of our beloved heroes.
Unpacking the My Hero Academia Movie Universe
The My Hero Academia franchise has successfully transitioned from a manga phenomenon to a beloved anime series, and subsequently, to the big screen. These movies aren’t just filler content; they contribute meaningfully to the overall narrative and character development, providing fans with exciting, self-contained stories. They also often provide new context and expand the universe beyond the core storyline.
My Hero Academia: Two Heroes
Released in 2018, Two Heroes takes place between the second and third seasons of the anime. It focuses on All Might’s past and his relationship with his American friend, David Shield, and his daughter, Melissa. Izuku Midoriya accompanies All Might to I-Island, a moving city dedicated to scientific research, where they encounter a villainous plot threatening the peace.
My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising
Heroes Rising, released in 2019 (2020 in some regions), is set after the Endeavor Agency Arc in the manga, though before it was adapted into the anime. Class 1-A is assigned to protect the residents of Nabu Island. However, their peaceful assignment is disrupted by the arrival of the villain Nine, who seeks a powerful Quirk residing within one of the island’s children. This movie is particularly exciting for fans as it explores the full potential of Class 1-A working together.
My Hero Academia: World Heroes’ Mission
The most recent installment, World Heroes’ Mission, debuted in 2021. This film throws Izuku Midoriya, Shoto Todoroki, and Katsuki Bakugo into a global crisis. A mysterious organization called Humarize aims to eliminate Quirks, deeming them a threat to humanity. The trio teams up with Pro Heroes worldwide to stop Humarize’s plans, and Midoriya even finds himself wrongly accused of a crime, adding another layer of complexity to the story.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About My Hero Academia Movies
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about the My Hero Academia movies, designed to provide you with a deeper understanding of these cinematic adventures:
1. Are the My Hero Academia Movies Canon?
Whether or not the movies are strictly canon is a point of discussion among fans. Officially, they are considered “parallel stories” supervised by Kohei Horikoshi, the creator of My Hero Academia. This means they generally fit within the overall timeline and character development, but might not be directly referenced in the main series. Some elements, like certain character abilities showcased in the movies, subtly influence later events in the anime.
2. Do I Need to Watch the Anime Before the Movies?
Yes, it’s highly recommended. The movies assume you have a solid understanding of the characters, their Quirks, and the overall plot of the anime. Watching them out of order or without prior knowledge of the series will likely lead to confusion and a less enjoyable experience. Specifically, Two Heroes should be watched after Season 2, Heroes Rising after Season 4 (although it references events of the manga beyond that point, the anime adaptation should provide sufficient context), and World Heroes’ Mission after Season 5.
3. In What Order Should I Watch the My Hero Academia Movies?
The best order to watch the My Hero Academia movies is in their release order:
- My Hero Academia: Two Heroes
- My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising
- My Hero Academia: World Heroes’ Mission
This ensures you follow the progression of character development and avoid spoilers for earlier movies.
4. Where Can I Watch the My Hero Academia Movies?
The My Hero Academia movies are typically available for purchase or rental on various digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, and Apple TV. They have also been released on Blu-ray and DVD. Check your preferred streaming service or online retailer for availability in your region. Many cable providers and on-demand services also offer the films.
5. Are There Any Plans for Future My Hero Academia Movies?
As of October 2024, there are no officially announced plans for a fourth My Hero Academia movie. However, given the continued popularity of the series, it’s certainly possible that more films will be produced in the future. Keep an eye on official announcements from the production team and relevant news outlets.
6. Are the Movie Villains Present in the Manga or Anime?
Generally, the villains in the My Hero Academia movies are unique to the films and do not appear in the main manga or anime storyline. This allows the movies to create self-contained threats that don’t disrupt the established canon. However, elements of the villains’ powers or the challenges they pose might subtly influence future events.
7. How Do the Movies Affect Character Development?
While not strictly canon, the movies contribute to character growth and development. They often showcase the heroes facing unique challenges and overcoming personal obstacles, which can deepen our understanding of their personalities and motivations. For example, the dynamic between Deku and Bakugo is subtly explored in the later movies.
8. Which My Hero Academia Movie is Considered the Best by Fans?
Fan opinions vary, but generally, Heroes Rising is considered a fan favorite. It features a high-stakes battle, showcases the full potential of Class 1-A, and offers a glimpse into the future of the characters. However, each movie has its own strengths and appeals to different audiences.
9. Are the Movies Dubbed in English?
Yes, all three My Hero Academia movies have been dubbed in English. You can find the English dub versions on various streaming platforms and Blu-ray/DVD releases. The English voice cast is consistent with the anime series, ensuring a seamless viewing experience.
10. Do the Movies Contain Any Post-Credit Scenes?
Yes, each of the My Hero Academia movies has a post-credit scene. These scenes often provide a small epilogue or hint at future events. It’s always worth staying until the very end to catch these extra moments.
11. How do the Movie Plot Lines Differ From the Anime?
The movies feature original stories that are separate from the main plot of the anime. They often explore different themes and introduce new characters and villains. This allows the movies to offer a fresh perspective on the My Hero Academia universe without disrupting the established canon. Think of them as “side quests” within the larger narrative.
12. Are the My Hero Academia Movies Worth Watching?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of My Hero Academia, the movies are a must-watch. They offer exciting action sequences, compelling storylines, and further develop the characters you know and love. They are a great way to expand your appreciation for the series and delve deeper into the world of heroes and villains. Even though they are not strictly canon, their action and excitement are worth your time as a fan.