The Ultimate Guide: Discover the Officially Canonized Bleach Movie!

Determining what is considered canon or not in anime movies, especially for series like Bleach, can be challenging for fans. While it is common for popular anime series to have their own movies, these movies are often separate from the main storyline and not considered canon. This allows for new and original stories to be told without adhering to the continuity of the series, but it can sometimes make the movies feel insignificant. However, there is one Bleach movie that may have defied this debate and become canon thanks to a subtle background detail.

The first Bleach movie, titled Bleach: Memories of Nobody, stands out as one of the more popular films in the series. It tells a focused tale centered around a new character named Senna. Despite not being present in the story by the film's end, Senna gained significant popularity and went on to make appearances in Bleach games and other related media. Senna's popularity potentially played a role in the movie being considered canon, at least within the anime adaptation.

Bleach: Memories of Nobody Might Be Bleach's Only Canon Movie

In the final scene of Memories of Nobody, Ichigo catches a floating ribbon in the wind, triggering a familiar but elusive memory. As he watches a girl who strongly resembles Senna pass by, a smile forms on his face, ending the film. Despite any potential alteration to his memories, it is evident that Senna holds a significant place within Ichigo's heart. Additionally, this scene establishes the existence of a person who bears a striking resemblance to Senna. In episode 204, a filler episode of the anime, Ichigo is seen sitting at a restaurant with his friends. In a brief moment, a girl with Senna's distinct hairstyle and the original yellow ribbon is seen behind Ichigo. Although the appearance is fleeting, those familiar with the film can easily recognize that it is indeed Senna.

Furthermore, there are indications that the film is considered canon within the manga. In chapter 627, Ichigo references having traversed an area known as the Kyogoku, which fans of the movie may recognize as The Valley of Screams when translated. The Valley of Screams was initially introduced in the movie and later mentioned in the manga, suggesting that the events of the film are being referenced by Ichigo. To further support this, Kubo, the author, left an author's note at the end of the chapter, urging curious fans to watch the first movie for more information about the Kyogoku. This serves as strong evidence for the canonicity of the film, leaving no room for doubt.

While it may be advantageous for anime spinoff movies to remain non-canon, there are still advantages to making a movie canon. Canon disputes often boil down to personal preference, but in this particular instance, the truth is unequivocal. The beloved initial movie of Bleach is undoubtedly canon, and it appears that Senna's doppelgänger has managed to pursue a tranquil existence.