Alright anime fam, it’s that time of year again! The Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2025 are upon us, and you know what that means—heated debates, passionate stanning, and at least one existential crisis over picking a favorite. But today, we’re zeroing in on the big screen with one fiery category: Film of the Year.
This year’s nominees aren’t just good—they’re a rollercoaster of feels, sakuga, and peak anime energy. Whether you’re into emotional slice-of-life, heart-pounding shounen, artsy masterpieces, or epic spy comedy (yes, really), this list is stacked with gems that made 2024 a phenomenal year for anime films.
Let’s break down the six contenders battling it out for the golden glory!
Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle – Rivalries, Sweat, and Pure Volleyball Hype
You don’t need to be a sports anime fan to appreciate the intensity of Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle. This long-awaited film adaptation covers the legendary showdown between Karasuno and Nekoma—a match fans have been dreaming of seeing animated for years.
With top-tier animation, emotionally-charged moments, and a rally that could power a small city, this movie is both a love letter to fans and a masterclass in tension. It’s heartfelt, explosive, and—dare we say it—worth every scream you let out in the theater.
Look Back – Quiet, Beautiful, and Soul-Crushing (in the Best Way)
Look Back may be the most subtle film on this list, but don’t let that fool you—it hits hard. Adapted from the one-shot manga by Chainsaw Man creator Tatsuki Fujimoto, this short but powerful film explores art, friendship, and loss through the lives of two aspiring manga artists.
With gorgeous, hand-drawn animation and a haunting emotional arc, Look Back is less about spectacle and more about stillness, connection, and the bittersweet pain of growing up. If you left this one dry-eyed… teach us your ways.
Mononoke The Movie: The Phantom in the Rain – Art in Motion
Fans of the cult-favorite Mononoke series finally got their wish with this dazzling cinematic return—and wow, The Phantom in the Rain was worth the wait.
Stylistically bold and narratively complex, this film dives into a haunting mystery with that signature Mononoke flavor: folklore meets surreal horror wrapped in ukiyo-e inspired visuals. It’s a feast for the eyes and the soul, packed with layers of meaning and aesthetic brilliance.
If you love your anime smart, strange, and stunningly drawn, this one’s probably at the top of your list.
My Hero Academia: You’re Next – Deku and Co. Bring the Heat
My Hero Academia: You’re Next brings the shounen spectacle in full force. It’s everything fans love about MHA—big action, high stakes, and emotional payoffs—but ramped up to movie levels of awesome.
With a new villain, fresh original story, and movie-only battles that go beyond PLUS ULTRA, this film delivers on all fronts. It also leans into the darker side of the MHA world, with some serious moral dilemmas and character development moments that hit harder than a Detroit Smash.
SPY x FAMILY CODE: White – Secret Agents, Snowy Chaos, and Peak Family Fun
Imagine a James Bond movie… but with a telepathic kid, a deadly assassin mom, and a spy dad who’s winging it. That’s SPY x FAMILY CODE: White in a nutshell—and it’s every bit as fun as it sounds.
This original movie blends holiday vibes, heartfelt family moments, and wild action into one delightful bundle of chaos. You don’t need to be fully caught up on the show to enjoy this one—it’s super accessible and endlessly entertaining. Bonus: Bond the dog gets MVP status (again).
The Colors Within – A Newcomer That Surprised Everyone
The Colors Within came out of nowhere for some fans, but it quickly earned a spot on this list thanks to its striking visual direction and emotionally resonant story.
This film explores mental health, creativity, and identity with sensitivity and grace, backed by breathtaking art design and a moving soundtrack. It’s the kind of film that stays with you long after the credits roll. Quietly powerful, beautifully animated, and refreshingly sincere—it’s the dark horse of the year, and we love it.
Final Thoughts
No matter who wins, one thing’s crystal clear: anime films are in their golden era. From shounen showdowns to psychological tearjerkers, this year’s nominees prove that anime on the big screen is as vibrant and diverse as ever.
What was your Film of the Year? Let us know in the comments.
