3 Anime We Predict Will Be the Next Major Box Office Hit

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Over the past year, anime has not only become competitive with Western movies and shows, but has often outperformed them. Several anime films have been huge successes, both in theaters and through streaming. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle is now the highest-grossing anime film ever made, exceeding the popularity and earnings of many well-known global franchises. Similarly, Chainsaw Man The Movie: The Reze Arc had an incredibly successful opening weekend, earning a substantial amount of money.

Fans are excited about the upcoming anime films scheduled for release next year and are wondering if anime will continue to succeed in theaters worldwide. Anime is becoming increasingly popular with Western audiences, who are now more open to the medium. Here’s a look at some of the biggest anime series planning a film release in 2026 – these movies have the potential to be huge hits, so be sure to keep an eye on them!

3) Puella Magi Madoka Magica

Puella Magi Madoka Magica is a highly acclaimed anime that stands out in the magical girl genre. It quickly gained attention for its unique approach, challenging many common tropes and exploring the darker side of what it means to be a magical girl. The series tackles difficult themes like mental health, trauma, loss of innocence, grief, and sacrifice, all while boasting beautiful animation and a captivating visual style that complements its intricate story.

The highly anticipated movie, Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie: Walpurgisnacht: Rising, is scheduled to be released in February 2026. A trailer and first look images were revealed earlier this year, generating excitement among fans who have waited years for a continuation of the story. The original voice actors will return, and the film is expected to resolve a cliffhanger ending from the previous installment, which aired 13 years ago. Given the franchise’s reputation as a classic in the magical girl anime genre, the new movie is expected to be a success.

2) Made in Abyss

In recent years, Made in the Abyss has gained a lot of popularity as an anime, captivating viewers with its striking contrast between adorable character designs and a deeply disturbing storyline. The initial series, released in 2017, consisted of 13 episodes and explored themes of adventure, ambition, and what it means to be human, all while incorporating elements of psychological horror. Known for its intense imagery and the grim destinies of its characters, Made in the Abyss doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, even when dealing with young characters and the trauma they endure.

I’m so excited! Ever since the second season of Made in the Abyss finished airing in 2022, everyone’s been clamoring for more. We’ve gotten a couple of recap movies and the fantastic Made in Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul which covered the ‘Ido Front’ storyline, but now the creators have announced a whole series of new movies! The first one, Made in Abyss: Awakening Mystery, is coming in 2026 and it’s going to pick up right where season two left off – and it’s hitting theaters, which is amazing!

1) The Apothecary Diaries

In the last year, The Apothecary Diaries has become incredibly popular with anime fans thanks to its beautiful animation, captivating story, and memorable characters. The show first came out in 2023, and a second season released earlier this year was also very well-received. Set in the Imperial Palace of a made-up country, the series cleverly mixes mystery and drama with historical details. If you enjoy stories that explore topics like power structures, science, medicine, courtly life, and social differences, this is definitely a series worth checking out.

Good news for fans of The Apothecary Diaries: a third season is coming next year! Plus, a new movie is planned for release in December 2026. The movie will expand on the show’s story and world. Currently, it’s only scheduled for release in Japan, but that could change before 2026.

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2025-11-03 19:12