My Hero Academia: World Heroes' Mission

Likable characters, positive messages, small doses of humor, and swift, swirling animation will make this superhero anime a must-see for longtime fans, as well as a good entry point for newcomers. The secret weapon of My Hero Academia: World Heroes' Mission is new, instantly lovable character Rody (pronounced "Roadie") Soul. A sly, charming rapscallion dressed in a patched up-shirt with a smart tie, coat, and gloves, his rooster-tail hair kept back with a headband and propped-up sunglasses, he's a charming thief. He keeps the movie's material from getting too serious, but he also gives it its heart. His "quirk" is delightful; it's a little pink bird named Pino who always expresses Rody's true emotions, even when he's lying or trying to be cool. In essence, can't lie.

Deku comes across as a little too good and selfless here, and his pet theme -- not giving up -- is hammered home a few too many times, but his friendship with Rody feels genuine. The rest of the battalion of characters show up just enough to be useful without being confusing to newcomers, while the story manages to make its twists and turns painless enough to follow. The action scenes are fluid and rhythmic, although very fast-paced and sometimes strobe-like. The battles often ramp up into higher and higher doses of adrenaline, letting loose in "kablammo" moments that can rattle speakers. But with its message of embracing all kinds of people, rather than hating and fearing, My Hero Academia: World Heroes' Mission really takes flight.