The nominees for the prestigious Anime Movie of the Year category at the 11th Anime Trending Awards have officially been revealed. Six standout films have been selected from a pool of 12 anime releases, all of which were made available on Blu-ray/DVD or digital formats between October 15, 2023, and October 15, 2024.
The nominated films are:
1. Blue Giant
Directed by: Yuzuru Tachikawa
Studio: NUT
Genre: Music, Drama
Blue Giant tells the story of Dai Miyamoto, a former high school basketball player who discovers jazz and begins an intense journey to master the saxophone. After moving to Tokyo, Dai teams up with the talented pianist Yukinori and convinces his friend Shunji to join him in forming a jazz trio. Their raw energy captivates audiences, but Dai soon realizes that the path to greatness is filled with challenges. This music-driven drama explores passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.
Availability: Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube Movies and TV
2. GRIDMAN UNIVERSE
Directed by: Akira Amemiya
Studio: TRIGGER
Genre: Action, Sci-fi, Mecha
GRIDMAN UNIVERSE follows Yuta Hibiki, a young man who loses his memory and begins experiencing bizarre phenomena, including seeing a massive creature and hearing voices from an old computer. His journey leads him into the digital world, where he becomes the colossal hero Gridman. This film combines mecha action with high-stakes drama as Yuta uncovers his true identity and purpose.
Availability: Crunchyroll
3. Rascal Does Not Dream of a Knapsack Kid
Directed by: Souichi Masui
Studio: CloverWorks
Genre: Drama, Slice of Life, Supernatural, Romance
In Rascal Does Not Dream of a Knapsack Kid, Sakuta Azusagawa is confronted by an elementary school-aged girl who appears to be a younger version of his girlfriend, Mai Sakurajima. As he navigates this bizarre encounter, Sakuta also faces unresolved issues with his mother and the mysterious manifestation of new scars on his body. This supernatural romance delves into the complexities of adolescence, family, and the power of memories.
Availability: Netflix
4. SPY x FAMILY: Code White
Directed by: Takashi Katagiri
Studio: WIT Studio, CloverWorks
Genre: Action, Comedy, Slice of Life
Set against the backdrop of global covert operations, SPY x FAMILY: Code White follows Loid Forger, aka “Twilight,” a highly skilled spy tasked with safeguarding world peace. When a new, incompetent handler is appointed to his operation, Loid must rely on his daughter Anya’s abilities to thwart a dangerous threat. This action-packed comedy adventure brings the Forger family’s dynamic to the forefront while delivering humor and suspense in equal measure.
Availability: Crunchyroll, iQIYi, Disney+, YouTube Movies
5. The Boy and The Heron
Directed by: Hayao Miyazaki
Studio: Studio Ghibli
Genre: Adventure, Drama
The Boy and The Heron, the latest offering from the legendary Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli, is a fantasy adventure about a young boy named Mahito. After losing his mother in the war, Mahito moves to the countryside, where he encounters a mischievous gray heron. Together, they embark on a journey through a mystical world that bridges the living and the dead. The film weaves a poignant tale about grief, growth, and self-discovery.
Availability: Netflix, Apple TV, Max
6. THE FIRST SLAM DUNK
Directed by: Takehiko Inoue
Studio: Toei Animation, DandeLion Animation Studio
Genre: Action, Drama, Sports
THE FIRST SLAM DUNK brings the beloved basketball manga to life with breathtaking animation and action. Focused on Ryota Miyagi, the point guard for Shohoku High School, the film chronicles his journey alongside his teammates as they aim to take down the reigning champions at the National Championship. Based on the classic sports manga, this film blends heart-pounding basketball action with emotional depth.
Availability: Disney+, Netflix, Apple TV
Eligibility for Additional Awards
In addition to the Anime Movie of the Year nomination, the main characters from The Boy and The Heron and Blue Giant are eligible for the Boy of the Year and Girl of the Year awards. These nominations will be determined by the results of the wildcard qualifying polls, which will be held from December 25–30, 2024.
The winners of the 11th Anime Trending Awards will be announced in early 2025, recognizing the finest contributions to the anime industry across a variety of categories.
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