My Hero Academia returns to the big screen! Following three exceptional films, the heroes of Kohei Horikoshi's manga are back for a new (and possibly final) feature-length adventure. Produced once again by Studio Bones, this fourth installment continues seamlessly within the manga’s storyline—a remarkable feat—while remaining accessible to new audiences. With stunning visuals and masterful execution, this latest film is a true gem.

Heroes on the Brink

Chaos reigns in the world of My Hero Academia. Villains have launched a major offensive, freeing scores of dangerous prisoners. Cities lie in ruins, and disillusioned civilians have begun turning against the heroes, blaming them for the endless cycle of destruction. To save as many innocents as possible and stop the fugitives, professional heroes and students from U.A. High join forces to restore order.

As Deku and his friends apprehend an enemy, a new figure appears in the sky, calling himself the “New All Might.” With a mysterious young girl and allies wielding unknown Quirks, he traps Deku’s team and several civilians within his massive flying fortress. Inside, the heroes discover an otherworldly realm: an Italian city, mountains, and serene lakes. Separated, they must hunt down this enigmatic enemy and uncover his true intentions.

My Hero Academia: You’re Next—Soaring to New Heights

This fourth installment is a masterclass in animation. From the devastated cityscape in the opening sequence, reminiscent of *Akira’s* Neo-Tokyo, to the vibrant and seemingly magical settings of the flying fortress, every scene is meticulously crafted. This dazzling environment includes Renaissance-style cities, amusement parks, and tranquil nature—an ornate prison brought to life like an open-world game, fully exploited by the animators.

The stunning visuals are complemented by breathtaking action sequences. While the previous films excelled in this area, this one raises the bar. The new antagonist and the young girl’s Quirk unleash a spectacle of devastating and psychedelic effects. The scale of the threat ensures every hero gets their moment to shine, whether in the skies, arenas, or Renaissance gardens, showcasing boundless creativity and the full potential of each character.

A Brilliant Storyline

The film’s most impressive feat is its integration into the manga’s main storyline. Declared canon from the opening sequence and confirmed by a post-credits scene, the plot fits seamlessly within the broader narrative. The writers skillfully build on the passing of the torch from All Might to Deku, introducing Dark Might, a villain grappling with impostor syndrome. Despite knowing his eventual defeat, fans will find the journey thrilling.

The inclusion of foreign adversaries adds another layer to the story. The Gorrini Clan, a shadowy Italian mafia, comes with a tragic backstory centered on a young girl whose Quirk has turned her life into a nightmare. She becomes a pivotal figure, with different factions vying for control over her devastating powers. The emotional depth of her journey, especially through the character of Giulio, whose moral conflict keeps viewers guessing, adds a compelling dimension.

My Hero Academia: You’re Next—A Love Letter to Pop Culture

Beyond its gripping narrative, the film is packed with tributes to pop culture. The visual style of Giulio’s motorcycle and Dark Might’s climactic meltdown clearly nod to *Akira*. Dark Might himself evokes Batman, as a flawed hero distorting his mentor’s legacy. The Italian setting also recalls the animated series *Noir*, while the arena battle draws parallels to the Geonosis fight in *Star Wars: Attack of the Clones*.

The flying fortress is a treasure trove of video game references. The heroes navigate a vast open world filled with secret zones and portals, facing off against the Gorrini Clan—each member echoing iconic gaming archetypes. Déborah mirrors a Mind Flayer, Paulo wields magic protected by energy fields, and Hugo—a dwarf atop a silent giant—resembles a boss from *Shadow Warriors Ninja Gaiden* on Game Boy.

This fourth film is a resounding success, justifying its box office triumph. With exceptional animation and storytelling, it’s a must-see spectacle, holding fans over until the manga’s grand finale.