Get ready to relive the epic conclusion (again!) as “Gintama the Final” and “Gintama THE VERY FINAL” are hitting Japanese theaters with brand new 4D screenings. As part of the Gintama franchise’s ongoing 20th-anniversary celebration, fans will have the chance to experience the feels, the laughs, and the action in a whole new dimension.
A Blast From The Past (and Future?)
The announcement came via a trailer released on the official YouTube channel for the Gintama anime, sending fans into a frenzy of excitement and nostalgia. The screenings are scheduled for:
- “Gintama: The Final Chapter – Be Forever Yorozuya”: Summer 2025
- “Gintama THE VERY FINAL”: Fall 2025
These 4D screenings promise to be more than just a re-release; they’re a chance to immerse yourself in the world of Gintama like never before, feeling every punch, splash, and comedic pratfall.
A Look Back at the Final Chapters
Before you grab your tickets, let’s revisit these iconic films:
Gintama: The Movie: The Final Chapter: Be Forever Yorozuya (2013)
Often considered one of the best anime films of all time, “Be Forever Yorozuya” is a completely original story penned by Gintama’s creator, Hideaki Sorachi.
- Story: Gintoki finds himself thrown into a future where Edo has drastically changed, and familiar faces are older and different. He must team up with future versions of the Yorozuya crew to uncover the mystery behind this altered timeline and save the world from a devastating virus.
- Why it’s special: This film is a love letter to Gintama fans, filled with callbacks, emotional moments, and the series’ signature blend of humor and heart. The time-travel plot allows for unique character interactions and a glimpse into possible futures.
Gintama THE VERY FINAL (2021)
This film was intended to be the true finale of the Gintama anime series, adapting the final arc of the manga while adding new story elements.
- Story: Gintoki, Shinpachi, and Kagura face their ultimate enemy, Utsuro, in a battle to save not only Earth but the entire galaxy. The film brings together characters from all corners of the Gintama universe for an epic showdown.
- Why it’s special: “THE VERY FINAL” delivers on its promise of closure, providing a satisfying conclusion to the series’ overarching plot. It’s packed with action, emotional farewells, and plenty of Gintama’s trademark humor.
Gintama’s 20th Anniversary Celebration
The 4D screenings are part of a larger celebration of Gintama’s 20th anniversary. Here’s a quick timeline of the Gintama universe:
- 2003: The Gintama manga begins serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump.
- 2006: The first season of the Gintama TV anime airs.
- 2010: “Gintama: The Movie: The New Benizakura Arc” is released.
- 2013: “Gintama: The Movie: The Final Chapter: Be Forever Yorozuya” hits theaters.
- 2019: The Gintama manga concludes.
- 2021: “Gintama THE VERY FINAL” is released.
- 2023: “Gintama on Theater 2D” compilation screenings begin.
- 2025: 4D screenings of “Gintama: The Final Chapter – Be Forever Yorozuya” and “Gintama THE VERY FINAL” are announced.
What to Expect from the 4D Experience
For those unfamiliar, 4D screenings take the movie-watching experience to another level. Expect:
- Moving Seats: Feel every bump, jolt, and explosion as your seat syncs with the on-screen action.
- Environmental Effects: Wind, water, scents, and even bubbles might be unleashed to match the scenes in the film.
- Enhanced Immersion: Get ready to be fully transported into the world of Gintama, making you feel like you’re right there alongside Gintoki and the gang.
Where to Watch (If You Can’t Make It to Japan)
If you can’t hop on a plane to Japan for the 4D screenings, don’t worry! You can still enjoy these films:
- Streaming: “Gintama THE VERY FINAL” is available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Home Video: Both “Gintama: The Final Chapter – Be Forever Yorozuya” and “Gintama THE VERY FINAL” have been released on Blu-ray and DVD.
A Gintama Refresher
Need a reminder of who’s who in the world of Gintama? Here’s a quick rundown of the main cast:
- Gintoki Sakata: The lazy but surprisingly capable samurai and founder of the Yorozuya.
- Shinpachi Shimura: The straight-laced member of the Yorozuya, often acting as the voice of reason.
- Kagura: The powerful Amanto girl with a bottomless appetite and a surprising amount of strength.
- Utsuro/Shoyo Yoshida: Gintoki’s former teacher and the series’ main antagonist, seeking to destroy the world.
- Shinsuke Takasugi: Gintoki’s former comrade, now a vengeful rebel seeking to destroy the world order.
- Kotaro Katsura: Another of Gintoki’s former comrades, now a charismatic terrorist fighting against the Bakufu.
- Toshiro Hijikata: The stern vice-commander of the Shinsengumi, dedicated to upholding the law.
- Sogo Okita: The sadistic captain of the Shinsengumi’s first division, always looking for an opportunity to torment Hijikata.
- Isao Kondo: The gorilla-like commander of the Shinsengumi, fiercely loyal to his men and hopelessly in love with Tae Shimura.
- Tae Shimura: Shinpachi’s strong-willed sister, known for her dark cooking and even darker sense of humor.
The Legacy of Gintama
Gintama’s impact on the anime and manga world is undeniable. Here’s why it’s so beloved:
- Unique Humor: Gintama’s comedy is a blend of slapstick, parody, and meta-humor that constantly breaks the fourth wall.
- Loveable Characters: The series boasts a diverse cast of memorable characters, each with their own quirks and backstories.
- Emotional Depth: Despite its comedic nature, Gintama tackles serious themes like loss, trauma, and the importance of friendship.
- Action-Packed Battles: When it’s time to fight, Gintama delivers with thrilling sword fights and over-the-top action sequences.
- Enduring Appeal: Even after its conclusion, Gintama continues to be celebrated for its unique blend of humor, heart, and action.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, the 4D screenings of “Gintama the Final” and “Gintama THE VERY FINAL” are an event you won’t want to miss. Get ready to laugh, cry, and experience the world of Gintama in a whole new way!
