The highly anticipated compilation film, Attack on Titan The Movie: THE LAST ATTACK, has released an English-subtitled trailer, sending waves of excitement through the global anime community. Crunchyroll streamed the trailer on Monday, January 13th, confirming the film’s imminent international theatrical release. This cinematic event brings together the final two episodes of the acclaimed Attack on Titan Final Season, offering fans a chance to witness the epic conclusion on the big screen.
A Colossal Conclusion: What to Expect
Attack on Titan: The Last Attack is not simply a re-release of the final episodes. This 145-minute film is a “brushed-up” edition, featuring enhanced visuals and a 5.1ch surround sound mix. The film combines the two special episodes that concluded the anime series, titled Attack on Titan Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Parts 1 and 2. These episodes originally aired in March and November 2023, respectively, and also streamed as episodes 88-94 of Attack on Titan The Final Season. The movie also includes some new footage that was not in the original broadcasts, making it a must-see for even the most dedicated fans.
The Story So Far
The narrative of Attack on Titan centers on humanity’s struggle against gigantic humanoid creatures known as Titans. The story begins with Eren Yeager, a young boy who witnesses his mother’s death during a Titan attack. Vowing revenge, he joins the military and uncovers a complex world beyond the walls of his home. Eren’s journey is marked by his acquisition of a special ability and his subsequent plan to eradicate all life beyond the island of Paradis, a plan known as the “Rumbling.” This plan puts him at odds with former allies and enemies alike, forcing them to unite to try and stop him.
The film focuses on the climax of this conflict, showcasing the desperate attempt by Eren’s former comrades, including Mikasa Ackerman, Armin Arlert, and Levi Ackerman, alongside former foes like Gabi Braun and Annie Leonhart, to halt Eren’s devastating plan.
International Release Dates
The film is set for a staggered release across different regions, offering fans worldwide a chance to experience the finale in theaters. Here’s a breakdown of the key dates:
- February 6: Australia, New Zealand
- February 10: North America (One-day-only screening)
- February 12: Finland
- February 13: Spain
- February 20: Denmark, The Netherlands
- February 21: Norway, Sweden
- February 25: Germany
- February 26: United Kingdom, Ireland
- March 1: France
- March 3: Italy
It’s worth noting that the English dub will be available at the February 6 showing in Australia and New Zealand, the February 10 showing in the United States and Canada, and the February 26 showing in the United Kingdom.
The Anime’s Ending and the Compilation Film
The Attack on Titan anime finale has been a significant topic of discussion among fans. The anime’s conclusion closely follows the manga’s ending, but with some key adjustments. These changes were made to address the criticism the manga received and provide greater clarity on certain character motivations and plot points.
Differences Between the Anime and Manga Endings
While the core events of the ending remain consistent between the anime and the manga, some important distinctions were implemented. The anime attempts to flesh out Eren’s character more, making his emotional state clearer in his final conversation with Armin.
- Eren and Armin’s Conversation: In the anime, Armin actively disapproves of Eren’s use of the Rumbling, where in the manga, this is less clear. The anime makes it more apparent that Armin does not condone the genocide that Eren commits.
- Eren’s Character: The anime portrays Eren’s anger more explicitly than the manga.
- Historia’s Role: The anime paints Historia’s letter as more anti-Rumbling, stating that Eren told her about the future.
- The Future of Paradis: The anime adds a post-credits scene showing a futuristic Paradis, which was absent from the manga.
- Tone and Theme: The anime gives a more hopeful tone to the ending. The manga’s ending is less optimistic about the future peace.
- Violence: Some violent scenes from the manga were censored in the anime, though the studio aimed to make Season 4 more brutal to maintain the story’s depth.
Additional Content in the Movie
The compilation film also features some new, bonus scenes not seen in the original broadcasts, enhancing the viewing experience for long-time fans. The film’s director, Yuichiro Hayashi, expressed his excitement for the release and encouraged fans to see it in theaters, highlighting the unique experience of viewing it on the big screen.
The Legacy of Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan has had a profound impact on the anime landscape, captivating audiences with its intricate plot, complex characters, and intense action. The series began as a manga in 2009, followed by the anime adaptation which premiered in 2013. Over its run, the series has explored themes of war, freedom, and the nature of good and evil, prompting many discussions and analyses.
The final season, produced by MAPPA, saw a change in the direction and character design, with Jun Shishido and Yuichiro Hayashi taking over the directorial roles. The show covers the “Marley” and “War for Paradis” arcs from the original manga, culminating in a devastating climax that explores the depths of human conflict. The final episodes aired as two hour-long specials, completing the adaptation of Hajime Isayama’s manga.
The Attack on Titan: The Last Attack film is the final chapter in this epic tale. With its theatrical release, fans have a chance to experience the conclusion of this iconic series on the big screen, with enhanced visuals, sound, and some new footage, solidifying its place in anime history.
The film’s release is highly anticipated by fans, and many are eager to see how the new scenes enhance the conclusion of this popular series. The global release dates are a testament to the show’s immense popularity, allowing international audiences to share in this monumental cinematic event.