Anime fans rejoice! Crunchyroll has recently added new content to its streaming library, including the “Bocchi the Rock!” compilation films and the prequel anime film “Touken Ranbu Kai – Den Chikashi Haberau Monora -.” Here’s what you need to know about these exciting additions.
“Bocchi the Rock!” Compilation Films Now Available
Following the successful release of the Latin Spanish dub of “Bocchi the Rock!” a few months ago, Crunchyroll has surprised fans with the addition of the series’ compilation films. Titled “Bocchi the Rock! Re:” and “Bocchi the Rock! Re:Re:”, these films offer a condensed version of the beloved anime series.
A Recap for Fans, a Gateway for New Viewers
The “Bocchi the Rock!” compilation films recap the 12-episode TV anime series, presenting the story in a concise format. For those already familiar with the series, these films offer a chance to revisit their favorite moments with some additional scenes. For newcomers, they serve as an excellent introduction to the world of Hitori “Bocchi” Gotou and her journey to overcome social anxiety through music.
What to Expect from the Films
The compilation film combines all of season one into one big recap, and includes a lyric video for the song “Tsukinami ni Kagayake” with new animation created for the opening sequence of the compilation film, as well as a new ending theme song, “Ima, Boku, Underground Kara” by Kessoku Band.
About “Bocchi the Rock!”
“Bocchi the Rock!” began as a manga series written and illustrated by Aki Hamaji, which started publication in Manga Time Kirara magazine in December 2017. The anime adaptation, produced by CloverWorks, premiered in Japan on October 8, 2022, and quickly gained popularity for its relatable characters and engaging storyline.
The story follows Hitori “Bocchi” Gotou, a lonely and anxious girl who dreams of socializing with others. She spends her time honing her guitar skills, hoping that it will be her ticket to making friends. Her life changes when she meets Nijika Ijichi, an extroverted drummer who invites her to join her band.
“Touken Ranbu Kai” Prequel Anime Film Streams on Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll is now streaming “TOUKEN RANBU KAI KYODEN”. In addition to the series, the prequel film “TOUKEN RANBU KAI – Den Chikashi Haberau Monora -“ is also available.
Delving Deeper into the “Touken Ranbu” Universe
“TOUKEN RANBU KAI – Den Chikashi Haberau Monora -” is a prequel to the “TOUKEN RANBU KAI KYODEN” anime series. The movie is the latest entry in the “Touken Ranbu” multi-media franchise, based on the concept of famous historical swords that transform into warriors who lead “Touken Danshi” (sword fighters) to fight to protect history.
The prequel features an original story written by Kenichi Suemitsu, who also serves as the writer/director of the Touken Ranbu stage plays.
Synopsis of “TOUKEN RANBU KAI KYODEN”
The eight-episode anime series TOUKEN RANBU KAI KYODEN aired in Japan from April 2 – May 21, 2024, and is now streaming on Crunchyroll.
The official plot synopsis reads… In 2205 A.D., evil forces attack the past, threatening to alter the course of history. The judge calls on four swordsmen, with blades blessed by a Shinto priest, to protect the past and save the future. Loyal to their former master, the demon king Oda Nobunaga, they travel back to the Honnoji Temple where he was murdered. Can they stop evil in its tracks and preserve the past? Only time will tell.
The World of “Touken Ranbu”
The “Touken Ranbu” franchise began with the hit game “TOUKEN RANBU ONLINE” by DMM GAMES and NITRO PLUS in January 2015. The brand has since expanded into anime, musicals, consumer games, stage performances, live-action movies, and Kabuki.
The game centers around a sage who must battle an evil entity trying to alter history with the help of anthropomorphized swords that transform into heroic, sword-wielding men.
Where to Watch
Both the “Bocchi the Rock!” compilation films and the “Touken Ranbu Kai” prequel anime film are now available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
