Anime streaming giant Crunchyroll continues to enrich its library by adding a variety of iconic and beloved titles, both recent and classic, for fans to enjoy. From emotional, music-fueled journeys to absurd and laugh-out-loud battles, the latest releases include a mix of movies and series that promise something for every anime lover. Here’s a look at what’s new and exciting on the platform

Girls Band Cry
2024 (13 episodes) – An Original Anime from Toei Animation

Set against the backdrop of Tokyo, Girls Band Cry follows the journey of Nina Iseri, a high school dropout searching for a purpose after moving to the city. Things turn around when she meets Momoka Kawaragi, her favorite guitarist, and together they decide to form a band with three other girls. Each girl carries her own personal struggles, but their shared love of music drives them forward, pushing them through obstacles in pursuit of their dreams. This heartfelt series celebrates the power of friendship, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of musicians.

Natsume’s Book of Friends
2008~2012 (52 episodes) – Produced by Brain’s Base; Seasons 5 & 6 Coming Soon

A timeless favourite, Natsume’s Book of Friends continues to attract audiences with its mix of supernatural elements and heartfelt storytelling. Takashi Natsume, a young boy who can see youkai (spirits), inherits a book from his grandmother filled with youkai names – granting him power over these beings. Alongside his loyal (and quirky) bodyguard, Nyanko-sensei, Natsume sets off on a mission to return the names to their rightful owners. He encounters different youkai with each episode, building friendships and learning valuable life lessons. This beautifully animated series is a gentle, introspective exploration of what it means to connect with others.

Gridman Universe
2023 (Movie) – Produced by Studio TRIGGER

Based on the live-action Gridman Universe series by Tsuburaya Productions, this cinematic adaptation brings a fresh and thrilling story to the anime community. Yuta Hibiki, who has fragmented memories of the hero Gridman, suddenly finds his peaceful high school life shattered as Gridman reappears with a warning: “The balance of this world is collapsing.” With a blend of mecha action, high stakes, and personal growth, Gridman Universe delivers a dynamic experience sure to delight both newcomers and long-time fans of the franchise.

Dakaichi: I’m Being Harassed By the Sexiest Man of the Year – The Movie: Spain Arc
2021 (Movie) – A Sequel to the Boy’s Love TV Series

In this continuation of the beloved Dakaichi series, actors Junta Azumaya and Takato Saijo embark on an intense journey filled with flamenco, passion, and rivalry. As they prepare for a joint show, Takato finds himself struggling to keep up with Azumaya’s fiery performance style. To better understand his partner’s skill, he travels to Spain, setting the stage for personal revelations and rekindled emotions. This movie is a romantic, culture-rich exploration of love and dedication that fans of the original series will not want to miss.

Planetes
2003 (26 episodes) – Produced by SUNRISE

Set in the year 2075, Planetes presents a future where commercial space travel has become routine, but so has the risk from space debris. Enter the crew of the “Toy Box,” tasked with the unglamorous yet essential job of clearing dangerous debris from orbit. While tackling life’s big questions—from ambition to financial struggles—the team confronts their own dreams and responsibilities. Known for its realism and philosophical themes, Planetes combines space adventure with human drama, making it a standout in the sci-fi genre.

Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo
2003 (50 episodes) – Produced by Toei Animation

For fans of surreal comedy, Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo offers a hilariously absurd experience. In a world where the Bald Empire seeks to make everyone bald, one hero stands defiant: Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo, a warrior with the power of “Fist of the Nose Hair.” Combining slapstick humour, wild battles, and an anti-conformist message, this show is unlike any other anime out there. Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo promises belly laughs and unexpected twists, delivering entertainment in its most unique form.

With these diverse new additions, Crunchyroll is offering fans a chance to explore a range of genres, from soul-stirring dramas to outlandish comedy. Fans of Natsume’s Book of Friends will soon be able to watch Seasons 5 and 6, while Girls Band Cry introduces fresh faces in the anime world with a heartfelt story. Don’t miss these releases now streaming on Crunchyroll, perfect for any anime binge session.

Featured image courtesy of Crunchyroll

_{View of the Arts is an online publication that chiefly deals with films, music, and art, with an emphasis on the Asian entertainment industry. We are hoping our audience will grow with us as we begin to explore new platforms such as K-pop / K-music, and Asian music in general, and continue to dive into the talented and ever-growing scene of film, music, and arts, worldwide.}