Best Drama Anime of 2021

Gabi Braun and Falco Grice have devoted their lives to rigorous training, hoping to inherit one of Marley's seven Titans to destroy the Eldians on Paradis. Yet, their promising futures are suddenly shattered by the arrival of Eren Yeager and the surviving members of the Survey Corps. Having discovered the dark origins of the Titans within the Yeager family's secret basement, the Survey Corps finally holds the vital truths they sought. Now armed with this knowledge, they step out into the world beyond the walls. In "Attack on Titan: Final Season," these conflicting factions collide as each side races toward their goals, leading to the long-awaited conclusion of Paradis's fight for freedom.

After thirty-four years defined by bullying and oppression, a man finally finds the courage to stand up for himself, only to die an untimely death. Fate, however, grants him a second chance, rebirthing him as Rudeus Greyrat, an infant embraced by a loving family. Retaining the memories and wisdom of his past life, Rudeus swiftly adapts to his new reality. Possessing the maturity of an adult, he displays exceptional talent for magic, honing his skills under the guidance of the wizard Roxy Migurdia. He also studies swordsmanship with his father, Paul, and forms a profound connection with Sylphiette, a friend who becomes his most cherished companion. As Rudeus navigates this unfamiliar world, he strives to heal the scars of his previous existence and make the most of his reincarnation, hoping to discover the love that was denied to him in his former life.

Once a popular middle schooler with devoted friends and a girlfriend, Takemichi Hanagaki has spent the last twelve years as a disrespected, apologetic nobody drowning in mockery and regret. His despair deepens upon learning that his ex-girlfriend and her brother were murdered by the infamous Tokyo Manji Gang. As he contemplates suicide by stepping in front of a train, Takemichi is suddenly thrust back in time to the day he last saw Hinata Tachibana. In this temporal loop, he meets Hinata's younger brother and, driven by desperation, warns him of his impending doom. Immediately after, he is inexplicably returned to the present, discovering he is alive and that the future has shifted. Realizing he can manipulate time, Takemichi views this ability as his sole opportunity to prevent Hinata's tragic death at the hands of the Tokyo Manji Gang. Determined to alter the course of events, he embarks on a mission to change history.

After the enigmatic mana catastrophe, Rudeus Greyrat and his formidable student Eris Boreas Greyrat are cast onto the Demon Continent. There, they team up with Ruijerd Supardia, the ex-leader of the Superd's Warrior unit, to establish the thriving adventurer party "Dead End." As their fame spreads, the trio embarks on a trek across the continent with the goal of returning to Fittoa. Under the guidance of the cryptic god Hitogami, Rudeus saves Kishirika Kishirisu, the Great Emperor of the Demon World. In thanks, Kishirika bestows upon Rudeus a peculiar power. As Rudeus strives to master this potent ability, which offers numerous possibilities, unexpected dangers emerge that threaten to derail their journey home.

Following Otto Suwen's sincere plea, Subaru Natsuki vows to keep going and save as many lives as possible in this timeline. His first mission is to assist Emilia in confronting her past, a grueling process that reveals her deep-seated inability to trust others due to past betrayals. Even Subaru, who sees himself as her protector, finds it difficult to earn her trust. The season ends with Subaru facing trials within the Sanctuary, demonstrating his unwavering determination and hope for the salvation of those he cares about.

In To Your Eternity, a nameless entity arrives on Earth for observation, possessing the ability to assume the forms of various creatures. Initially appearing as a stone and later transforming into moss due to temperature shifts, it remains motionless until a dying wolf approaches. By taking on the wolf's form, it gains awareness and begins to wander. It encounters the wolf's owner, a lonely child left behind when his tribe heads south in search of abundant food. Despite his isolation, the boy clings to the belief that his family will return for him. Seeking adventure, he sets out with the entity, following his tribe's path toward what they perceive as a better future. As the boy's health deteriorates from his wounds and the absence of his companions, his fate remains uncertain. The narrative follows this eternal being through its varied experiences and interactions with people across different times and places.

The Republic of San Magnolia claims to have achieved a war with zero civilian casualties against the Giadian Empire, yet this assertion is nothing more than propaganda. While the silver-haired Alba citizens of the Republic's eighty-five sectors live safely behind protective barriers, those with different appearances are hidden away in a clandestine eighty-sixth sector. Labeled as the Eighty-Six, these individuals are compelled to fight the Empire's automated Legion forces under the command of Republican Handlers. Vladilena Milizé assumes the role of Handler for the Spearhead squadron, replacing the previous leader. Although she faces isolation from her peers for advocating on behalf of the Eighty-Six, she strives to challenge their unjust treatment. Simultaneously, Shinei Nouzen, the captain of Spearhead, shoulders the heavy burden of being the sole survivor of every squadron he has commanded, carrying forward the memories and wishes of those who have fallen. As their fates converge, it remains uncertain whether their meeting will spark a beacon of hope or be consumed by the fires of despair.

Following the suicide of her close friend Koito Nagase, Ai Ooto feels adrift and desperately seeks meaning. When a mysterious voice guides her to a Wonder Egg, she cracks it open to find herself in a bizarre dream realm. There, Ai begins aiding individuals trapped in their personal struggles, believing that rescuing them might somehow lead to saving her friend. This perilous yet mesmerizing journey forces Ai to confront not only the shadows haunting others but also her own inner darkness. As she delves deeper into the enigmatic world of Wonder Egg Priority, Ai uncovers buried traumas, lingering regrets, and concealed fears. Gradually, she comes to understand the internal battles that torment people and works to liberate them from their most profound terrors.

After his confession to Airi Gotou is rejected, ordinary office worker Yoshida returns to his small apartment in a dejected state. Having already failed to propose to his boss, he spent the evening drinking with his friend Hashimoto and arrives home intoxicated, where he encounters Sayu Ogiwara, a runaway high school student. She requests to stay, and in his drunken condition, he agrees. The following morning, Yoshida wakes up with a severe hangover and no recollection of the prior night's events. Sayu explains how she came to be in his residence. Although he initially intends to make her leave, learning that she traveled all the way from Hokkaido makes him unable to turn her away. Reluctantly, he permits her to stay, and the two begin their life of sharing the apartment.

Following the Spearhead Squadron's departure, the Republic of San Magnolia persists with its relentless propaganda. Vladilena Milizé continues her role as "Handler One," directing another unit from the marginalized 86th sector in the conflict against the Legion. Meanwhile, Shinei Nouzen and his team are stationed at a military base within the Federal Republic of Giad, a region formerly belonging to the Giadian Empire. Under the new leadership of President Ernst Zimmerman, they are granted citizenship and liberty. Zimmerman also introduces them to his adopted daughter, Augusta Frederica Adel-Adel, the former Empress. Despite the tranquil environment, Shinei and his comrades feel an undeniable draw back to the battlefield. They soon return to the fray as members of the Federacy's Nordlicht Squadron, fighting alongside Augusta Frederica. As they face the Legion again, they realize that no matter which side they serve, the grief and loss inherent to the front lines are inescapable constants.

Devoted his entire life to the organization that raised him, the world's greatest assassin is ultimately betrayed and killed by that very group. Burdened by lingering regrets, he encounters a goddess who admires his abilities. She grants him a second chance in a fantasy world filled with magic and combat, entrusting him with a crucial mission: eliminate the hero destined to bring ruin upon this world. Reborn as Lugh Tuatha Dé, the heir to a noble lineage of assassins serving the Alvan Kingdom, he trains under his father, learning techniques that differ from his previous lethal methods. As he hones his other skills and forms new bonds, Lugh remains keenly aware of his current limitations. To fulfill his sacred duty, he must achieve ultimate mastery to overcome his formidable foe.

Centuries past, the spirits of the Chinese zodiac and their deity swore an eternal vow to remain united. This oath dictates that the Souma family members, each inhabited by a zodiac animal, are destined to reunite at any cost. Yet, these ties often transform into a heavy burden, denying them normal lives. Akito, the clan head, obsessively maintains that he holds a unique bond with the other Soumas, while the rest of the family endures isolation and the terror of punishment. Tooru Honda, having grown deeply attached to the Soumas, is resolved to shatter the curse binding them. Bolstered by her friends and her new family, she finds the strength to challenge the curse. However, shocking revelations threaten to undermine her determination. As time dwindles, Tooru must steer through an uncertain future, hoping to discover peace beyond the chaos.

Yatora Yaguchi is a second-year high school student who maintains good grades and sports a delinquent appearance, yet internally he struggles with uncertainty about his future. He drifts through his daily routine alongside similarly unmotivated friends, though he secretly yearns for something more meaningful. After being deeply moved by a striking scene in Shibuya, Yatora picks up a brush to paint and capture his emotions. Encouraged by the praise his work receives, he sets his sights on the highly competitive Tokyo University of the Arts, an institution that accepts only one applicant out of every two hundred. In pursuing this new goal, Yatora confronts significant hurdles: rivaling talented peers with extensive experience, grappling with his own limited background in fine arts, and navigating his parents' disapproval. To secure a spot in his chosen program, he must demonstrate that his lack of formal art education is not a barrier to his success.

In Odd Taxi, Hiroshi Odokawa, a walrus known for his blunt and quirky demeanor, lives an unassuming life working as a taxi driver. While on duty, he picks up a diverse array of passengers, including Taichi Kabasawa, an unemployed man chasing online stardom; Miho Shirakawa, a nurse shrouded in mystery; the struggling comedy duo Homo Sapiens; and Dobu, a well-known troublemaker. Odokawa's daily rhythm is shattered when he becomes entangled in the investigation of a missing girl, a situation that draws the attention of the yakuza and two corrupt police officers who begin to pursue him.

In a world where anthropomorphic animals live side by side, the esteemed title of Beastar is granted to those who fight prejudice to unite carnivores and herbivores. For five years, Cherryton Academy has gone without a Beastar, but the murder of an alpaca on campus has escalated tensions between species, making the need for a unifying leader more critical than ever. After Louis, the frontrunner for the role, steps down and leaves, the student council declares that the student who identifies the killer will be crowned Beastar. Motivated by his determination to shield the weak, Legoshi accepts the challenge of solving the crime, a quest made even more difficult by his complicated feelings for Haru, a white rabbit.

In the world of "Link Click," a photograph is said to harbor countless hidden secrets instead of simply capturing a moment. Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang, two friends running a small shop named "Time Photo Studio," provide a unique service. By utilizing their special power to step inside photographs, they fully immerse themselves in the images submitted by clients to carry out specific requests. Viewing the scene through the photographer's eyes, they revisit the circumstances surrounding the photo and strive to fulfill the client's desires. However, every entry into a photograph carries significant danger. Even a single error can alter the photographer's future and potentially trigger a chain reaction of further changes. As the situations they face within these photos become increasingly personal, they must summon all their resolve to set aside their emotions and focus on completing their mission.

In the online game Attack Families, or Tackfam, Fumiya Tomozaki is the top-ranked player in Japan. While he excels in the virtual world, his real-life social awkwardness and lack of charisma leave him isolated at school with no friends. Convinced that life is governed by unfair and complicated rules, he accepts his role as a bottom-tier character in reality. This outlook changes when he meets Aoi Hinami, a classmate who is both socially skilled and a top-tier Tackfam player. Impressed and surprised by Fumiya's complete ignorance of everyday social dynamics, Aoi decides to mentor him through the ultimate game—life. As Fumiya tackles the challenges of social interactions and relationships, he slowly improves his position in the grand scheme of existence.

Following the Fourth Impact, Shinji, Asuka, and Rei are left without their Evangelions, seeking shelter in one of the few remaining pockets of humanity on a devastated Earth. There, they lead lives vastly different from their former roles as pilots. Yet, the threat to the world persists, with a new impact approaching that promises to be the true conclusion of Evangelion. As the Human Instrumentality Project is finally set in motion, WILLE mounts one final, grueling stand to halt the Final Impact. Note: This title exists in several versions denoted by version numbers: 3.0+1.0 released theatrically on March 8, 2021; 3.0+1.01, a second theatrical release on June 12, 2021, featuring updated scene cuts without altering the overall story; and 3.0+1.11, a home media release scheduled for the film's two-year anniversary on March 8, 2023.

After his family died in an explosion, Mirai Kakehashi lived a miserable life full of suffering and despair under the care of his indifferent relatives. At his lowest point, about to jump off a cliff to his death, he unexpectedly falls into a trance and meets Nasse, a celestial guardian angel. Nasse gives him two incredible powers and urges him to keep living. Empowered with these new abilities, Mirai finally experiences the freedom he had been missing. Soon, he is pulled into a deadly competition against eleven other participants, where the ultimate prize is becoming the next God. Driven by his desire to hold onto his newfound chance for happiness, Mirai is determined to do whatever it takes to keep this opportunity.

Once every thousand years, the gods from Greek, Norse, and Hindu mythologies convene to evaluate humanity. Disgusted by human greed, the divine assembly decides to eradicate the species. Just as the extermination order is set to be executed, Brunhilde, one of the 13 Valkyries of Valhalla, intervenes to offer humanity a last opportunity. She suggests a Ragnarök tournament in which 13 of the strongest human fighters will compete against 13 gods in individual combat. Though the gods initially mock her proposal, Brunhilde manipulates their vanity to establish a binding contract. Her objective is to assemble the most formidable champions from the previous millennium and lead them to triumph before they fall.

Kyouya Hashiba is in a bind. At 28, after leaving his stable office job to pursue his dream of working in video games, he is now unemployed and back living with his parents. He regrets not choosing an arts college and feels resentment toward his former peers, who have become part of the successful Platinum Generation. When he mysteriously wakes up ten years in the past, Kyouya sees this as an opportunity to change his fate. In this new timeline, Kyouya decides to study art at Oonaka University of Art. There, he meets Eiko Kawasegawa, who was once his intern supervisor, and becomes friends with his new roommates: Aki Shino, a talented but secretive artist; Nanako Kogure, a naturally gifted singer and actress; and Tsurayuki Rokuonji, a prolific writer. Together, these future members of the Platinum Generation collaborate on various creative projects, inspiring each other to reach their full artistic potential and achieve the success they have always dreamed of.

In a body ravaged by an unhealthy lifestyle, chaos reigns as germs, bacteria, and foreign elements run rampant. The cells responsible for maintaining bodily functions face escalating dangers and difficulties. Amid this turmoil, Red Blood Cell AA2153 and White Blood Cell U-1196, who have grown up in these harsh conditions, continue performing their roles despite the grim reality of many cells perishing in the process. Set against a backdrop distinct from the original narrative, Cells at Work! CODE BLACK! delves into the struggles of these cells as they fight to sustain the body's health. Yet, with the human's condition deteriorating further, the fate of their efforts lies in the hands—or rather, the cilia—of these resilient cells.

U is a massively popular social media platform where users can craft a new digital identity and start fresh. Among its five billion users, a newcomer named Belle is drawing significant attention for her enchanting singing voice, gradually winning over the hearts of many listeners. Yet, in this world where everyone hides their true selves behind virtual personas, curiosity grows about the real identity of this mysterious girl. A shy country girl, Suzu Naitou, has lost the ability to sing due to a past trauma; every attempt leads to a breakdown and makes her sick. But when Suzu joins U, she regains her voice. Using the alias Belle, her singing quickly rises to fame, earning both adoration and hostility. Meanwhile, rumors circulate in U about a chaotic monster known as Dragon. After an unexpected encounter at a concert, Belle realizes he is not as evil as the legends claim. Now, both online and in real life, Suzu must face the challenges of identity, fame, and opening her heart.

The Game Master's quest world summons Yuusuke Yotsuya and his original team once more. The group gains a new member, Keita Torii, and reunites with Kahabell, who does not realize the consequences their actions have on the world around them. After saying their goodbyes to Kahabell, the team embarks on a fresh assignment: delivering a Jiffon Buffalo to Vaikdamnia on Jiffon Island. However, the trip reveals that the mission is anything but straightforward. Orcs have overrun the island, having made a pact with the inhabitants to receive the buffalos instead of attacking them. As the buffalo supply runs low, the annual Vaikdamnia festival faces cancellation. In spite of these difficulties, the team must confront the orcs and free the island's people.

Two years after the Tendoshuu's assault on the O-Edo Central Terminal, the Yorozuya team has disbanded. Gintoki Sakata, anticipating Utsuro's return, begins exploring the Earth's ley lines for clues about Utsuro's Altana. He encounters surviving Tendoshuu members who still seek immortality, and eventually returns to Edo. Once reunited, the Shinsengumi and Yorozuya launch a counterattack on the occupied Central Terminal. With the extracted Altana from the Tendoshuu ship at risk of exploding, the Yorozuya and their allies fight a fierce battle against their enemies, with the fate of Edo and the world at stake. In memory of their mentor, Shouyou Yoshida's former students gather once more, reflecting on their past as they work toward securing their future.

After leaving the idol industry, Fuuka Miyazawa chooses to go to Okinawa instead of returning to Morioka, seeking comfort in a place she doesn't know. Without a clear goal and burdened by sorrow, she wanders until she stumbles upon Gama Gama Aquarium, a small facility facing closure due to financial troubles and a lack of visitors. The aquarium is barely keeping itself running, needing expensive repairs and drawing few customers to bring in money. The facility's director is considering shutting down by the end of summer, which greatly upsets his granddaughter, Kukuru Misakino, a passionate lover of sea life. She is determined to gather enough funds in time to keep the aquarium open. Captivated by the aquarium's unique charm, Fuuka asks for a job, but soon discovers that her lack of experience makes her more of a burden than an asset. At the same time, Kukuru struggles with the realization that her ambitious fundraising goals may be out of reach. As pressure mounts, can Kukuru and Fuuka manage to save the place that has become so meaningful to both of them?

Tamahiko Shima, who sees himself as a pessimist, resides alone in the mountains of Chiba after a car accident took his mother and the use of his right hand. His wealthy family has cast him out as unsuitable, leaving him to spend his days reading while his nights are consumed by restless anxiety. Driven by the Shima family's honorable name and a determination not to bring shame to it, Tamahiko has accepted his fate—staying isolated until death claims him. One snowy evening, his sleepless nights are broken by a knock at the door. Tamahiko meets 14-year-old Yuzuki Tachibana, who declares she has come to be his bride. This encounter triggers Tamahiko's memory of his father's promise to send someone to aid him with his daily struggles. Though she was sold as a bride to clear her family's debts, Yuzuki displays remarkable care, diligence, and devotion toward Tamahiko. Can this weary young man maintain his detachment in the face of such genuine warmth and support entering his desolate life?

After his grandfather, the legendary shamisen player Matsugorou Sawamura, passes away, Setsu Sawamura leaves his quiet home in the countryside. Before his death, Matsugorou told Setsu to give up the shamisen if he couldn't find his own unique style of playing. Overwhelmed by grief, Setsu goes to Tokyo, hoping the lively city will help him discover his own individuality. But the noisy urban environment of Tokyo drowns out everything else, leaving him feeling adrift. Worried about her son, Setsu's wealthy and successful mother, Umeko, comes back into his life and enrolls him at Umezono Academy. There, Setsu meets Shuri Maeda, a girl who is fascinated by the Tsugaru shamisen and wants to recreate a song her grandmother once heard long ago. Shuri starts a shamisen appreciation club and persuades Setsu to teach its members. As he gets more involved with the club, can Setsu rekindle his love for the shamisen and discover the distinctive sound he is searching for?

In "Wonder Egg Priority: My Priority," Ai Ooto is on the verge of solving the mystery surrounding her best friend's suicide. By venturing into the surreal realm of the Wonder Egg and rescuing individuals from their struggles, Ai succeeds in bringing her friend back to life. However, with her friend revived, Ai finds herself confused and hurt by the realization that her friend no longer remembers her. This disconnection extends beyond Ai; the other girls involved in these events experience similar estrangement from those they have brought back. As they grapple with their changed realities, the girls must face the emotional wounds left by their "mission" and decide whether to re-enter the Wonder Egg to uncover the full truth behind what happened.

In the belief that fireworks can calm the spirits of the deceased, Tomoya Sugisaki, Aoi Harukawa, and Ryou Kobayashi come face-to-face with the Summer Ghost through a display of pyrotechnics. This spectral figure, rumored to be the soul of a young woman who committed suicide, appears only at a specific site and is seen exclusively by those nearing death. Tomoya, burdened by the stress of gaining entry to a top-tier university, shares this unique vision with Aoi, a shy girl tormented by bullies, and Ryou, a former basketball star whose career was cut short due to a grave health issue. Their shared experience allows them to see the Summer Ghost, who is said to possess answers to questions concerning death—an enigma the trio is eager to unravel. Dissatisfied with their initial meeting, Tomoya takes it upon himself to revisit the Summer Ghost. As he spends more time with her, the mysteries regarding her true identity begin to come to light.

In "Sing a Bit of Harmony," Satomi Amano is a model student and the daughter of the lead project manager at Hoshima, a company that is transforming AI technology. Despite her accomplishments, Satomi feels distant from her classmates because of her family's prominence. One ordinary morning as she gets ready for school, Satomi discovers her mother's newest revolutionary concept: an AI designed to explore living together between humans and robots. Fascinated by this innovation, Satomi goes to class, where she meets the very AI intended for the experiment, Shion Ashimori. Shion is assigned to blend smoothly into the daily life of a typical high school student while hiding her artificial nature. But her real purpose is to bring happiness to Satomi. Using her extraordinary singing talent, Shion aims to create harmonious melodies that build bonds among her peers and heal the fracture in Satomi's heart.

After an incident with his former volleyball team in Tokyo, gifted setter Kimichika Haijima relocates to Fukui. There, he reunites with his childhood friend Yuni Kuroba, a talented but overlooked player on the Monshiro Middle School Boys' Volleyball Team. Seeing Kuroba's untapped potential, Haijima hopes to build a new squad around him. But during a prefectural tournament, Kuroba crumbles under pressure, causing Monshiro to lose and driving a wedge between the two friends, leading Haijima to quit the team. At Seiin High School, Haijima and Kuroba end up on the same team again. Determined to make amends, Haijima helps Kuroba conquer his anxiety and become the team's star. With support from captain Shinichirou Oda and vice-captain Misao Aoki, Seiin aims to win the prefectural championship and earn a spot in the Spring Tournament as Fukui's representative. Their journey pits them against Fukuho Technical High School, the defending champions of Fukui. Can Haijima's team overcome the odds, or will the past repeat itself?

In everyone's dreams, their next heist would be their last, leading to a serene life of leisure and fishing. Yet, jails are filled with failed crooks who shared that same fantasy. The Heat find themselves in a tight spot, burdened by a massive gambling debt that could cost them their lives if unpaid. The criminal fraternity, unwilling to see the most beloved supercrook fall to the mob—especially not to Johnny Bolt, their biggest fan—prompts Johnny to devise a plan aimed at saving the Heat and making his gang extremely rich. To pull this off, they must travel to Spain to rob the world's most infamous supervillain. This mission, however, brings with it considerable difficulties.

Since their first live performance together, Mafuyu Satou and Ritsuka Uenoyama's relationship has grown steadily. Their mutual passion for music deepens their connection, and every moment they share becomes more meaningful. However, they are bound to face difficulties ahead, as both struggle with their own inner conflicts.

Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji come across a stone marker reading "Yi City" while traveling through a desolate rural area. As they investigate the mystery of the cursed severed arm, they enter the abandoned city to find more clues. Their inquiry takes a turn when an unidentified cultivator appears, leading them to uncover a conspiracy threatening the entire cultivation realm. The situation worsens when they learn of Jin Guangyao, the respected leader of the Lanling Jin Sect, being involved. As Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji piece together the complex web of deceit woven into cultivation history, their friends and allies begin to question their motives. Facing widespread suspicion, Wei Wuxian must clear his reputation as a supposed diabolical sorcerer and restore trust in his efforts to save the cultivation world from the hidden evil that plagues it.

The Heike, also referred to as the Taira clan, hold considerable influence over Japan. A young girl who possesses a unique eye capable of foreseeing the future unintentionally offends the clan, leading to her father's death as punishment. Later, she meets Taira no Shigemori, the eldest son of the Heike leader, and adopts the name "Biwa." Biwa warns Shigemori about the Heike's impending downfall. After learning of the injustice she endured because of the clan, Shigemori decides to protect her instead of eliminating her. As military conflicts escalate, the Heike become entangled in a strategic power struggle, with a bloody war looming on the horizon. Shigemori, who can see the spirits of the dead, finds himself caught between fear and hope as he attempts to prevent his clan's collapse. Biwa, however, is reluctant to reveal more about the future and has difficulty adapting to her new life, experiencing both joy and sorrow during this critical period in Japanese history.

Following a controversial incident with a male fan that forced her to leave JPX48, Ai Narata makes a firm decision to keep men at a distance. Drawing on her experience and strong aversion to males, she auditions for the Kouka School of Musical and Theatrical Arts, a prestigious institution that trains exceptional actresses for the all-female Kouka Theatre Troupe. Though Ai’s background as an idol makes her a natural fit for the school’s centennial intake, her aloof attitude pushes her fellow students away. Sarasa Watanabe, with her distinctive personality, is the only one eager to befriend Ai. Sarasa dreams of becoming a premier "otokoyaku," an actress who specializes in male roles. Inspired by a childhood performance of The Rose of Versailles at Kouka, she longs to one day portray Lady Oscar. However, her lack of social awareness often creates tension, especially with Ai, who is assigned as her roommate and study partner in several classes. Success at Kouka does not rely solely on natural talent; the young women must navigate jealousy, deception, and the harsh realities of the entertainment industry. Will Ai and Sarasa overcome these obstacles and achieve their goals, earning a place on the illustrious silver bridge?

Wu Liuqi, together with his companions Dabao and Xiaofei, sets out on a trip to the Xuanwu Kingdom in order to safeguard the inhabitants of Xiaoji Island and preserve their tranquil way of life. Their goal includes revealing the mysteries connected to Wu Liuqi's past and discovering a method to rescue their island. The road forward is packed with additional puzzles and exciting escapades.

Every few decades, the Wild Hunt—a procession of fairy knights on horseback—emerges and travels across the land, causing old plants to wither and making room for fresh growth. However, a lightning strike on the stone monument where the Wild Hunt lies dormant dislodges a fragment containing the leader of the group. As a result, when the Hunt reawakens, its members lose their formation and wander aimlessly through the woods, leaving destruction in their wake. To address this issue, Spriggan commissions Elias Ainsworth to retrieve the lost guide’s steed and return it to its rightful owner. Simultaneously, Gabriel, a young boy with asthma who longs for adventure, stumbles upon the broken stone and inadvertently summons the knight entrapped within. With his sole clear memory being the necessity to return, the guide must find his horse and rejoin his fellow riders before the consequences of his absence become irreparable.

After a risky escape from the Memory Museum, Sayaka Miki heads back to Mitakihara City, bringing alarming news with her. She reveals to Madoka Kaname and Homura Akemi the whereabouts of Mami Tomoe and also uncovers the harsh truth about the fate of magical girls. Realizing the grim future that awaits them, the three decide to work together to save Mami once and for all. Meanwhile, in Kamihama City, Yachiyo Nanami investigates various "rumors" to find Hotel Fendt Hope, the headquarters of the Wings of Magius. This group is Yachiyo's only lead on the disappearance of Iroha Tamaki. Determined to reunite Team Mikazuki Villa, Yachiyo is set on dismantling the Wings of Magius and stopping their evil plans. As these events unfold, a perilous threat arises, posing a grave risk of plunging the whole world into a severe conflict.

In the world of idols, the VENUS Program functions as an impartial ranking system driven by AI and data analysis. This system is used each year in the VENUS Grand Prix to identify the next generation of star idols. Among all participants, Mana Nagase stood out as the most exceptional. Tragically, her career ended due to a fatal accident during the final round of the tournament. Years later, Kouhei Makino, who once managed Mana, remains at Hoshimi Productions. Aiming to form a new idol group, he holds auditions and encounters Kotono Nagase, Mana's younger sister, who is determined to carry on her sibling's legacy with the help of her former mentor. Another applicant, Sakura Kawasaki, impresses Makino with her voice, which eerily resembles Mana's. Makino selects Kotono and Sakura, along with eight other hopefuls, to form a group. Together, the ten girls live in a communal dormitory, learning the intricacies of teamwork and striving toward their ambitious goals. They face the challenges of the competitive idol industry as they pursue success.

The manga centers on the craft of filmmaking and follows Joelle Davidovich "Pompo" Pomponette, a gifted movie producer who looks like a small child. Working from the film capital Nyallywood, Pompo has been churning out one B-grade entertainment flick after another that anyone can enjoy. One day, Gene, Pompo's "movie buff" assistant, discovers a new script written by Pompo and is deeply moved by its exquisite story. In a burst of passion, he exclaims, "I want to see this as a finished work in theaters as soon as possible!" However, Pompo tells him, "So you shoot this film." Thus, Gene takes on his first directorial gig. Meanwhile, Natalie, an ordinary girl who just arrived in town with dreams of becoming a movie actress, has been discovered by Pompo.

In the 105th year of the Universal Century, a fragile peace exists following the sacrifices of war heroes like Amuro Ray, yet the Earth Federation maintains its military dominance over Earth and its space colonies. Despite Char Aznable's failed rebellion, his vision of complete human freedom endures. Hathaway Noa, the son of a celebrated Federation commander, embodies both Amuro's steadfast dedication and Char's rebellious spirit. Haunted by the aftermath of Char's uprising, Hathaway leads a resistance group called Mafty under the alias Mafty Navue Erin, using force to counter the Federation's growing oppression. After a foiled hijacking by impostors claiming to be Mafty, Hathaway's true identity is revealed to Gigi Andalucia. Though he forms connections with Gigi and Federation Colonel Kenneth Sleg, his secret identity endangers their safety as the conflict between Mafty and the Federation intensifies.

At Puqi Shrine on a quiet evening, Xie Lian and Hua Cheng discuss their recent experiences. Within this peaceful setting, the Crimson Rain Sought Flower sheds light on deeper aspects of Xie Lian's character, and a shameful recollection highlights how much he has evolved since his early ascensions. Though time has passed, Xie Lian still maintains his conviction in seeing the goodness in others. Even when the heavens test him, his deeds and words have secured the steadfast devotion of his most loyal follower.

Unaired episodes included in the third and fourth Blu-ray/DVD releases. This entry contains: 1) Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki: Post-game equipment for girls is a little different than usual - The group stops for lunch at the café where Kikuchi works, and she attempts to eavesdrop on their conversation about love and dating while staying hidden. 2) Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki: Most strange spell names have unknown origins - Aoi, Mimimi, and Tama recall the early days of their friendship and a fireworks display that inspired Tama's nickname.

Kousuke Mikado has possessed the ability to see spirits since childhood, a power that fills him with dread. To suppress this, he wears glasses in hopes of blocking his sight. One day while working at a bookstore, he attracts the attention of Rihito Hiyakawa, an unusual medium who insists their meeting was fated. Hiyakawa's strange behavior draws Mikado into the supernatural world, offering to help him overcome his fears if he stays close. Together, they investigate a series of sinister curses all linked to one person, Erika Hiura. Their search grows more complicated as they try to understand her motives and her connection to both Mikado and Hiyakawa.

In 2041, following World War III which has decimated two-thirds of the human population, faith in gods or the supernatural is dismissed as nonsense. To suppress any dissident thinking, the government has created a Special Weapon Enforcement unit tasked with hunting down and reforming those who hold such beliefs. Naoya and Naoto Kirihara, twin brothers possessing psychic abilities, have been hidden by their captors for years under the promise of eventual freedom when society becomes ready to accept them. Yet, as they navigate a world that rejects psychics, the twins must escape the relentless pursuit of Enforcement officers Yuuya and Takuya Kuroki.

In a world torn apart by a thirty-year conflict with the alien BETA, which began their invasion in 1973, high school student Takeru Shirogane awakens from a troubling dream depicting humanity's total annihilation. He comes to understand that these visions are actual memories from an alternate universe where the Alternative V plan was enacted, sending hundreds of thousands of people into space to preserve humanity while condemning those left on Earth to a tragic end. Determined to change this grim future, Takeru enlists at a military base in Yokohama, which was once his school. There, he persuades Professor Yuuko Kouzuki, the vice-commander and head of the Alternative IV project, to stop the implementation of Alternative V. To make Alternative IV succeed, Takeru must train alongside his classmates to pilot Tactical Surface Fighters (TSF), giant humanoid mechas. With only two months to prepare and using his limited knowledge of what lies ahead, Takeru strives to prevent the impending catastrophe.

In Japan, women's soccer has seen a steady decline in popularity. Despite this, some schools continue to field teams, keeping the sport's future alive. Nozomi Onda, who sharpened her skills playing with a boys' soccer club in middle school, feels that competing against girls would hinder her growth. She only thrives when facing opponents she considers worthy. Meanwhile, Sumire Suou, a talented newcomer, finds her abilities held back by less skilled teammates. After her previous coach encouraged her to join a girls' team, Onda teams up with Suou and Suou's close friend and rival, Midori Soshizaki, at Warabi Seinan High School's girls' soccer team. In this new environment, both girls discover and unlock their true potential. Along with their teammates, each step, kick, and goal drives them toward success, potentially restoring the sport's former glory.

In "Dakaichi: I'm Being Harassed By the Sexiest Man of the Year the Movie - Spain Arc," Takato Saijou and Junta Azumaya, both recognized as Japan's most attractive men, are cast together in a theatrical production centered around a flamenco duel. Despite their joint involvement, Junta holds a distinct edge due to his background, whereas Takato, lacking any flamenco experience, finds himself at a disadvantage. Driven by his resolve to surpass Junta, Takato travels to southern Spain to absorb the passionate essence of flamenco. While in Spain, Takato encounters Ceres, a skilled flamenco dancer, and begins training under her guidance. His progress is disrupted when Junta arrives to visit his grandfather's hometown. Now, Takato must strive to match Junta's proficiency, navigate his interactions with Junta's family, and contend with Antonio, an unforeseen rival for Junta's attention.

Following the conclusion of the first season of Majutsushi Orphen Hagure Tabi, Orphen discovers Azalie's real intentions and journeys to the holy city of Kimluck. There, he faces an intense confrontation with the "Death Teacher" who is waiting for him.

Prior to crossing paths with Catarina Claes, each of her close companions endured their own individual struggles. However, through her radiant smile and considerate gestures, Catarina's companionship gradually soothed their solitary grief.

Following the loss of divine protection, humanity enters a new era with the opportunity to rebuild. The members of Sanshu Middle School's Hero Club have completed their obligations to Taisha and now enjoy typical middle school life. However, this peace comes with significant sacrifices. In the 298th year of the Divine Era, Mebuki Kusunoki is among those vying to be the next hero. Despite her hard work to surpass her competitors, the title goes to Karin Miyoshi, leaving Mebuki enraged by Taisha’s decision. Two years pass, and Mebuki is appointed as the leader of the Sentinels, a team tasked with exploring uncharted territories outside the protective barrier. What appears to be a simple mission quickly becomes complicated by unforeseen threats that endanger many lives. Resolved to prove her worth as a hero, Mebuki pledges to bring everyone back safely, regardless of the challenges ahead.

As their first anniversary approaches and their popularity continues to rise, IDOLiSH7 plans a live tour to express gratitude to their fans. At the same time, the Black or White event is drawing near, and as the defending champions, the group must prepare to face new challengers. Determined to solidify their place in the idol scene, IDOLiSH7 pushes for victory and aims to finally settle their rivalry with TRIGGER once and for all. While juggling their hectic schedules, IDOLiSH7, TRIGGER, and Re:vale encounter significant figures in the entertainment industry. Amidst this turbulent period, rumors about IDOLiSH7 surface, causing the group to worry about their public image and putting their relationships to the test. Meanwhile, a sinister entity carries out a secret plot from the shadows.

In the bustling halls of Seishou Music Academy, a new group of talented young women marks the start of another lively academic year. The upcoming graduation of the 99th class brings intense preparations for the anticipated performance of Starlight, a moving story about two girls parting ways. While most students in the Actor Training Department have clear plans after graduation, Karen Aijou remains undecided. Having fulfilled her promise to share the stage with her ambitious childhood friend Hikari Kagura, Karen now finds herself without direction. With Hikari gone, Karen must face the realities of her theatrical journey and find a path that aligns with her own dreams—searching for a stage that belongs uniquely to her.

In his childhood, Ryuuhei Oda witnessed his beloved elder brother's tragic demise alongside a peculiar symbol near the scene. As a vibrant and spontaneous high school student, Ryuuhei spends most of his time engaged in his passion—kickboxing. One night while returning home, a bizarre creature attacks and bites Ryuuhei’s leg, leading him to experience a surreal dream filled with unusual entities. The following day, these creatures attempt to attack him again in reality, but he is saved by Jessica Clayborn and Aruto Fushibe, who reveal that they have recruited him as their new member. Confronted with an urgent danger, Jessica presses the bewildered Ryuuhei to undergo a transformation into a "knocker-up," someone endowed with the ability to combat the dream-originated monsters. Leveraging his kickboxing talents, Ryuuhei activates his latent abilities to defend the city, only to encounter a symbol he will never forget.

Preparations for the WSG (World Sports Games), the premier global athletic competition, are underway in Tokyo. On the same day as the opening ceremony, the cutting-edge "Vacuum Superconducting Linear" train—a marvel of Japanese engineering capable of reaching 1,000 km/h—is scheduled to make its maiden journey from Shin-Nagoya Station to Shibahama Station in Tokyo. As worldwide attention intensifies, chaos breaks out at a gala attended by key tournament sponsors, resulting in the successive kidnappings of several high-ranking corporate executives. Meanwhile, Shuichi Akai closely watches the situation, awaiting instructions from the FBI. Conan discovers a connection between these incidents and a WSG kidnapping case in Boston, USA, that occurred fifteen years ago and was also investigated by the FBI. Could this be mere coincidence? With Tokyo hosting a diverse array of international visitors, what new developments lie ahead?

In 54 AD, Cestvs, a fifteen-year-old gladiator, longs to flee his harsh existence in the arena. His master promises him freedom after one hundred victories, but Cestvs soon understands that his life as a slave is worth little. Following the death of a close friend, the hope of liberty becomes Cestvs' only reason to keep going. With steadfast determination, he sets out on a path to regain his freedom, battling fellow slaves for the amusement of the crowd.

In the fashionable Harajuku neighborhood, rumors circulate about a hidden store in Ura-Harajuku where a witch grants unvoiced wishes, assisting people in realizing their deepest yearnings. Nina, a driven apprentice witch, eagerly takes on this responsibility, viewing it as an opportunity to increase her own power and influence by satisfying her customers' desires. However, not every aspiration results in happiness, and as Nina delves into the inner worlds of her clients, she reveals the troubling side of her calling. Her growing ambitions start to conflict with her aim to reduce pain in the world.

In the world of Shikizakura, cherry blossoms bloom together with vibrant autumn leaves, merging the fleeting human realm with the domain of spirits. This setting serves as the stage for a ritual meant to protect humanity. High school student Kakeru Miwa unexpectedly joins a squad of Yoroi operators—those who pilot advanced power suits combining ancient wisdom with modern technology—to fight the Oni, evil spirits that take over humans and resist being sent back to the spirit world. Driven by his wish to shield Ouka Myoujin, the shrine maiden prophesied to save the world, Kakeru dedicates himself to becoming a hero against the Oni. During the season of Shikizakura, Ouka carries out her shrine maiden duties amid the overlapping beauty of autumn and cherry blossoms. The story unfolds as the past intertwines with the future, the physical world blends with the spiritual, and dreams merge with reality, heralding the start of an epic adventure.