Fans of the beloved anime franchise are in for a treat as the “Digimon: The Movies” collection is set to debut on December 17, 2023. This new Blu-ray release brings together three classic films that contributed to the cultural phenomenon surrounding the original “Digimon: The Movie,” well-known for its convoluted production, infectious ska and punk soundtrack, and the plethora of memes that have emerged over the decades.
Among the standout moments that have become iconic in anime history is the unforgettable sight of the impressively muscled rabbit, Wendigomon, dancing to Smash Mouth’s “All Star.” This quirky scene serves as a nostalgic snapshot of a bygone era in animated films, with some fans playfully suggesting that it rivals even the famed Shrek in its cultural impact.
While English-speaking audiences have long been familiar with the fragmented storyline of “Digimon: The Movie,” the truth is that it was pieced together from three independent films previously released in Japan. Until now, English fans have never had the opportunity to experience the original versions of these films. However, the upcoming Blu-ray collection finally offers a chance to own a significant piece of Digimon history.
The collection includes “Digimon Adventure,” the 1999 prequel that set the stage for the series, “Our War Game,” a 2000 installment that takes place shortly after the first season, and “Hurricane Touchdown,” which is set during the second season and also released that same year. Fans can look forward to hearing the original English cast reprise their roles in new dubs, which will feature the original Japanese soundtracks. However, those seeking to relive the nostalgic music from the English film may be disappointed, as this collection prioritizes the authentic soundscapes of the original Japanese versions.
Notably, the collection will also include the English film along with all the unique quirks that resulted from merging the three films, offering fans the best of both worlds. Major retailers like Crunchyroll are already taking pre-orders, although some stores only have placeholder pages listed at this time.
While it’s a joy to revisit these classic Digimon films, the franchise has been busy introducing new stories and characters over the years. The “Digimon Adventure tri.” series, which aired from 2015 to 2018, followed the original cast as they navigated their high school years. This was followed by “Digimon Adventure: Last Evolution Kizuna” in 2020, marking the characters’ transition into adulthood. Most recently, “Digimon Adventure 02: The Beginning” released in 2023, continuing the legacy of the second anime series.
Despite the ongoing expansion of the franchise, many fans are eager for a film focused on the cast of the third season, cherished by longtime viewers. As new stories unfold, loyal fans hope that the original characters will not be left in the spotlight indefinitely, advocating for a fresh narrative featuring new faces amidst a nostalgic backdrop.
With the brand-new “Digimon: The Movies” collection on the horizon, it’s the perfect time for fans—new and old alike—to celebrate the rich history and lasting impact of the Digimon universe.