Demon Slayer is receiving all the spotlight right now with the release of its latest film, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Part 1 – Akaza’s Return. The franchise has shown the immense potential of anime films by breaking record after record. It’s no surprise that such success could usher in an era where several other anime receive canonical films as grand as this. Franchises like One Piece or Solo Leveling would definitely benefit from a film with the same quality as Infinity Castle. Here are 7 anime that deserve that chance.
Chainsaw Man
Chainsaw Man is a relatively new anime, but it has already captivated many with just a short season. Recently, the franchise had its biggest theatrical release with Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc. The film has been a huge success in Japan, with fans praising its quality. Although it may be on the same quality level as Infinity Castle, a future canonical film could achieve even greater global success.
Solo Leveling
Solo Leveling is one of the most popular anime of the new generation. The series caught attention in 2024, but its popularity reached new heights this year after the epic finale of the 2nd season. One thing fans would love is a good movie. Currently, Solo Leveling technically has a film, Solo Leveling: Reawakening, but it’s only a recap of the first season. A true franchise film could be a huge hit, especially overseas.
One Piece
One Piece is the biggest anime in the world and has already had its share of great films. Currently, its highest-grossing success is the most recent, One Piece: Film Red (2022), which became one of the highest-grossing films of all time in Japan. However, Film Red was not canonical. A canonical One Piece film, in the style of Infinity Castle, could be an even bigger success if it ever happens.
Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisen has become one of the most popular and best-selling series of all time, being the most anticipated anime of 2026. The franchise also has a great track record with films; its only canonical film (though a prequel), Jujutsu Kaisen 0, is the 11th highest-grossing Japanese film in history. Another canonical Jujutsu Kaisen film, covering a major manga battle, could easily break records.
Naruto
Naruto is one of the most beloved and recognized series in the world. Despite ending over a decade ago, it still holds an important place in the hearts of many fans. The most recent franchise film, Boruto: Naruto the Movie, is the most successful, but there is definitely untapped potential. A new film focused on the classic era or post-manga events would be more than welcome.
My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia is a beloved series that is nearing its conclusion with the 8th and final season launching in a week. After the anime ends, there will be no more animated content to look forward to. This is where a movie would fit perfectly. My Hero Academia could explore the adult lives of the new Professional Heroes through a film, and it would be a huge success among fans, much bigger than My Hero Academia: You’re Next.
Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter is an iconic shonen series but has suffered from slow manga adaptation. However, Yoshihiro Togashi’s work still has a dedicated fanbase who would love any new animated content. An HxH film could be grand, especially because a full anime adaptation of the manga’s most recent arc is not a viable option at the moment. A film focusing on one of the manga’s most anticipated battles would be a sure bet. All these anime, and many others, can be watched on Crunchyroll.
