The first Hunter x Hunter movie to be released is Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge, debuting in Japanese theaters on January 12, 2013. Understanding its placement is crucial for fans looking to experience the Hunter x Hunter world in its intended cinematic sequence.
Diving into the Hunter x Hunter Cinematic Universe
Hunter x Hunter, Yoshihiro Togashi’s beloved manga and anime series, has captivated audiences for years. Beyond the core anime adaptations, the franchise has expanded into the realm of cinema, offering fans additional stories and perspectives on their favorite characters. This article clarifies the release order of the Hunter x Hunter movies, answering the common question: “What HxH movie comes first?” and delving deeper into related aspects.
The Definite Answer: Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge
The answer is definitive: Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge is the first movie. This film introduces a new antagonist and explores Kurapika’s backstory in more detail, focusing on the events surrounding the massacre of his clan. It offers a compelling narrative that complements the main storyline of the anime series, particularly the Yorknew City arc.
Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission – The Sequel
The second and, currently, final Hunter x Hunter movie is Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission, released in Japan on December 27, 2013. It’s important to watch Phantom Rouge first to avoid potential spoilers and appreciate the chronological development of certain character arcs. The Last Mission presents a new threat connected to the Hunter Association’s shadowy past.
Why Chronological Order Matters
While the movies aren’t strictly canon to the main Hunter x Hunter story, they provide valuable context and expand on existing character relationships. Watching them in the correct order enhances the viewing experience and ensures a smoother understanding of the characters’ motivations and developments.
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
To further enhance your understanding of the Hunter x Hunter movies and their place within the broader franchise, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
H3 FAQ 1: Are the Hunter x Hunter Movies Canon?
The answer is generally no, the Hunter x Hunter movies are not considered strictly canon to the main manga storyline. They are considered more as side stories that take place within the established universe. Togashi, the creator of Hunter x Hunter, has involvement in the conceptualization but the movies don’t directly impact the core plot progression.
H3 FAQ 2: Do I Need to Watch the Anime Before the Movies?
Absolutely. Watching the anime series, particularly up to the Yorknew City arc, is highly recommended before watching Phantom Rouge. Understanding the character dynamics, especially those of the main quartet (Gon, Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio) and the Phantom Troupe, is crucial for appreciating the movie’s narrative. For The Last Mission, having watched the Chimera Ant arc enhances the understanding of Nen and character powers.
H3 FAQ 3: Where Can I Watch Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge?
Availability varies by region. Popular anime streaming services like Crunchyroll and Funimation sometimes carry the movies. DVDs and Blu-rays are also available for purchase from various retailers. Checking legal streaming platforms specific to your region is the best way to find it. Keep in mind that licensing agreements change, so availability may fluctuate.
H3 FAQ 4: Is There a Third Hunter x Hunter Movie Planned?
As of today, there are no confirmed plans for a third Hunter x Hunter movie. While fans have expressed interest, no official announcements have been made by the production companies involved. The focus remains on the ongoing manga series and potential future anime adaptations.
H3 FAQ 5: What is Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge About?
Phantom Rouge centers around Kurapika’s quest for revenge against the Phantom Troupe. It introduces a new character, Omokage, who is connected to Kurapika’s past and holds the eyes of other members of his clan. The movie explores themes of vengeance, loss, and the importance of friendship.
H3 FAQ 6: What is Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission About?
The Last Mission delves into the dark history of the Hunter Association, introducing a group of Hunters who were banished long ago due to their use of “On,” a forbidden form of Nen. The movie explores themes of justice, redemption, and the complexities of morality within the Hunter world. It also involves a conflict between Gon and the antagonistic Shura, forcing him to question the very nature of being a Hunter.
H3 FAQ 7: Are the Movies Available in English Dubbed Versions?
Yes, both Phantom Rouge and The Last Mission are available in English dubbed versions. These versions are typically available on DVDs/Blu-rays and on certain streaming platforms.
H3 FAQ 8: Is it necessary to watch the 1999 Hunter x Hunter anime before the movies?
No, it’s not strictly necessary. While the 1999 anime adaptation is a classic, the 2011 reboot covers the same storyline with improved animation and pacing, making it the more accessible and recommended starting point before watching the movies. The core narrative and character introductions remain consistent between the two adaptations up to the points relevant for the movies.
H3 FAQ 9: Does the movie Phantom Rouge explain Kurapika’s powers fully?
While Phantom Rouge expands on Kurapika’s backstory and motivations, it doesn’t fully explain his powers. His abilities are thoroughly detailed within the main anime series, particularly in the Yorknew City arc, which is essential viewing for understanding his Nen abilities and his Scarlet Eyes. The movie assumes prior knowledge of these core elements.
H3 FAQ 10: Are there any special features or extras on the Hunter x Hunter movie DVDs/Blu-rays?
Yes, depending on the edition and region, the Hunter x Hunter movie DVDs and Blu-rays often include special features like trailers, promotional videos, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews with the voice actors and creators. Check the specific product details before purchasing to confirm the included extras.
H3 FAQ 11: How do the movies compare to the overall quality of the anime series?
The movies are generally considered enjoyable additions to the Hunter x Hunter universe but might not reach the same level of narrative depth and complexity as the main anime series. They offer a more condensed and self-contained story, focusing on action and character interactions. The animation quality is comparable to that of the anime series.
H3 FAQ 12: Where do the movies fit into the Hunter x Hunter timeline?
Phantom Rouge takes place roughly between the end of the Greed Island arc and the beginning of the Chimera Ant arc. The Last Mission is believed to occur sometime after the Chimera Ant arc but before the Election arc. It’s important to remember they are not strictly canon, so pinpointing an exact placement within the main timeline can be speculative. They are designed to be enjoyed as standalone adventures featuring the established characters.