Highlights
Finally, after nearly a decade, Haikyuu!! is coming to an end, providing fans with two exciting new animated movies. This opportunity allows fans to once again join the Karasuno Crows on the volleyball court for one last time.The upcoming movie, "Haikyuu!! Movie: Battle of the Garbage Dump," centers around the intense face-off between Karasuno and Nekoma High at Nationals, highlighting their enduring rivalry. Directed and written by Susumu Mitsunaka, this film features the talented staff members from the original series, as they strive to deliver a fresh and unique experience to the fans in movie form. Mitsunaka expresses heartfelt appreciation for the support from the fans.
After nearly a decade since its debut, Haikyuu!! will finally reach its conclusion. The beloved sports anime has undergone changes in its animation style, staff, and faced significant delays in content production due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the journey is now coming to an end with the release of two new animated movies. As dedicated Haikyuu!! fans, we will soon bid farewell to the exhilarating volleyball matches featuring the Karasuno Crows. Here's what we currently know about these exciting upcoming projects.
What is Haikyuu!! about?
Haikyuu!! depicts the journey of volleyball enthusiasts Hinata Shoyo and Tobio Kageyama, who strive to become the top players on their high school team at Karasuno High School, despite their profound differences and initial aversion towards each other. Karasuno has been experiencing a dearth of victories, yet their fervent aspiration is to reclaim their glory by participating in Nationals, the most prominent interschool volleyball tournament in the nation. Through overcoming numerous hurdles, refining their skills, and even forming new friendships, the anime chronicles the endeavors of Hinata, Kageyama, and their teammates in their quest to reach Nationals and, ideally, secure a triumphant outcome.
Where Did Haikyuu!! Leave Off?
In season 4, the boys finally made it to Nationals! The court size increased, the opponents became more skilled, and the matches grew more challenging. After a tiring season-long battle against Shiratorizawa Academy and their exceptional Ace, Wakatoshi "Ushiwaka" Ushijima, the Crows emerged victorious in a thrilling and suspenseful game, securing their spot in Nationals. The upcoming competition is full of pressure, as Japan's top teenage players will gather with their respective schools. Karasuno High, the underdogs in the high school volleyball scene, displayed great courage in the initial games of Nationals and are now preparing to face their eternal rivals, Nekoma High, who have also advanced to Nationals.
Haikyuu!! Movie - When Will It Be Released?
Haikyuu Final Announcement Poster
The two animated films, known as "Haikyuu!! FINAL", will mark the end of Haikyuu!!. The first movie, titled "Haikyuu!! Movie: Battle of the Garbage Dump", has already released a trailer and key visual. It will showcase the highly-anticipated and famous showdown between Karasuno and Nekoma High at Nationals. The peculiar title of the match is derived from the fact that Karasuno's mascot is a crow, while Nekoma's is a cat – animals commonly found in garbage dumps in alleyways. This rivalry between Karasuno and Nekoma has been long-standing, dating back to when their respective coaches were students. With the tension that has been building up since season one, this battle will go down in Haikyuu!! history.
The upcoming movies are helmed by Susumu Mitsunaka, known for his previous works such as Cowboy Bebop: The Movie, Detective Conan: The Bride of Halloween, and most notably the anime series Haikyuu!!. Mitsunaka will not be the sole returning member on this project. The team also includes Takahiro Kishida (known for works like That Time I Got Reincarnated As Slime, Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind, and Haikyuu!!) as the character designer and Takahiro Chiba (known for works like Blue Exorcist, Naruto, and Haikyuu!!) as the chief animation director. Mitsunaka aims to present a refreshing and unique cinematic experience within the anime medium. He commends his talented team for their dedication and expresses gratitude towards the fans for their unwavering support. The first film is scheduled to premiere in Japan on February 16, 2024.
Sources: Anime News Network; Comic Book; SK Anime