Chainsaw Man the Movie Reze Arc Brings Firepower to the Big Screen

(Image credit: ©MAPPA Studio)
The roar of the chainsaw is back, and this time, it’s heading straight to theaters. After blowing fans away with its wild first season, Chainsaw Man is returning not with a second season, but with its first cinematic adventure, Chainsaw Man - the Movie: Reze Arc. With an official release date already announced and the hype racking up at a steady pace, this film now looks set to be one of the most hyped anime releases of 2025. The movie is based on one of the most popular arcs in the manga, and it is guaranteed to blow your mind with action, touching moments and an unknown personality who may also turn the tide of events and completely alter the life of Denji.
Let’s dive into what makes this upcoming movie a big deal for Chainsaw Man fans and what you should know before it hits the big screen.
A New Girl Enters the Scene and Nothing Will Be the Same
This movie picks up right where Season 1 of Chainsaw Man left off. After the intense showdown with Katana Man and the shocking events that closed out the first season, the story takes a dramatic turn with the introduction of Reze, a mysterious girl who works at a café and seems oddly interested in Denji. But as fans of the manga know, Reze is far more than she appears.
The movie is based on the Reze Arc, also known by manga readers as the Bomb Girl Arc, and spans chapters 40 to 52 of the original series. Without giving too much away, this arc can be described as a roller coaster of emotions, emotional character building, and the most intense encounters and action scenes we have seen so far. Denji finds himself caught between two powerful forces; Makima, the manipulative superior who has him under her thumb, and Reze, the seemingly sweet newcomer who hides a dangerous and dark secret. Not only does this emotional tug-of-war question Denji’s loyalty, but it also makes him face his utmost desires and fears.
Why a Movie Instead of a New Season Might Be a Genius Move
Fans may be wondering why the creators skipped over a full second season and chose to go the movie route instead. It’s not uncommon in the anime world, just look at Demon Slayer's Mugen Train, which became a global hit when it was released in theaters. The same strategy is now being used for Chainsaw Man, and there are good reasons behind it.
The Reze Arc works perfectly as a standalone story. It's packed with action, drama, and character depth, all wrapped into a tight narrative that fits neatly into a movie format. By making it a film, Studio MAPPA can give it the high-quality animation it deserves, with detailed fight sequences and cinematic storytelling that’s hard to match in a TV format. This isn’t just filler or side content, this is canon, and it plays a key role in Denji’s journey.
Also, releasing a movie gives fans a chance to experience Chainsaw Man in a whole new way. Seeing these characters and battles on a massive screen, with theater-level sound and visuals, will be something fans won't want to miss. And it sets up future arcs perfectly for a second season down the line.
Mark Your Calendars for the Chainsaw Mayhem
The official Japanese release date for Chainsaw Man-The Movie: Reze Arc is September 19, 2025, announced during AnimeJapan and confirmed through the anime's official social channels. This announcement came alongside a jaw-dropping 1 minute and 30-second teaser that switches between shots of Makima and Reze, showcasing the emotional conflict Denji will face, and closes with an explosive burst of action.
International fans don’t have to wait much longer either. The movie will hit US and UK theaters on October 29, with France getting it a bit earlier on October 22, and other regions like Spain, Mexico, and most of South America receiving it on October 30. This global release strategy mirrors successful anime blockbusters of the past and suggests that the studio is expecting big things. You can check out the official teaser right now on YouTube:
This Could Be the Biggest Chainsaw Man Story Yet!
Everything about this movie screams potential. The animation quality shown in the trailers is nothing short of breathtaking, once again handled by the master’s at Studio MAPPA. We’re talking fluid fight scenes, emotional close-ups, and a haunting score that sets the tone just right. Fans can expect some unforgettable moments, whether it’s the growing tension between Denji and Reze or the high-stakes battles that push Denji to the edge.
But there’s more than just flashy fights. This arc dives deeper into Denji's emotional state, raising questions about what he truly wants in life and whether he can ever have it. It’s a perfect mix of action and heart, making it not only fun to watch but also deeply moving for long-time fans. Reze herself is already creating buzz. Voiced by Reina Ueda, she brings a mysterious and emotional edge to the story that might just make her one of the most memorable characters in the series. And with familiar faces like Makima, Power, Aki, and Kobeni returning, the stakes have never felt higher.
A Must Watch Before Season 2 Arrives!
For fans wondering if they can skip the movie and wait for season 2, the answer is a clear no. This movie is canon. It directly continues the story from season 1 and sets the stage for what comes next, likely the International Assassins Arc, a high-octane follow-up filled with danger and global intrigue.
If you’re someone who loved season 1’s mix of wild battles, dark humor, and emotional drama, this movie promises all that and more. It’s not just an extra, it’s the next essential chapter in Denji’s journey. Until then, catch up on the first season of Chainsaw Man on Crunchyroll, where both the sub and dub are streaming for premium members. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for local theater listings as the release date approaches.
The countdown to chainsaws, bombs, and heartbreak begins!