On June 27, 2025, the much-anticipated film Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid: A Lonely Dragon Wants To Be Loved made its debut across theaters in Japan. This delightful supernatural slice-of-life anime has garnered a dedicated fanbase since the inception of its TV adaptation, which aired eight years earlier, and is rooted in the beloved manga created by Coolkyousinnjya. With the renowned Kyoto Animation studio at the helm, this cinematic release was impossible to overlook.
Just days before the film’s premiere, I decided to immerse myself in the series once again, finally catching up on the 12-episode second season and its accompanying OVA, which had been released in 2021. While I initially watched the first season during its original airing in 2017, life had kept me from diving into Season 2 until now. With my upcoming movie outing in mind, I dedicated an evening to binge-watching the episodes. The experience of watching anime movies in theaters is something I cherish, especially in Japan, where it is a common and exhilarating experience—a stark contrast to the United States, where such opportunities were scarce nearly a decade ago.
Reflecting on my recent viewing, I have no regrets about the time spent re-engaging with Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid. Season 2 proved to be an even richer experience than the first, and the movie served as the perfect culmination of my binge-watching. While I won’t delve into spoilers, I can confidently say that anyone who has even a passing interest in Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid should prioritize seeing this film in theaters.
For those outside Japan, there’s no need to worry. Crunchyroll has already announced that they hold theatrical rights to the film for regions outside Asia, ensuring that fans around the world will have the chance to experience this cinematic gem.
An Overview of Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid
At its core, Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid is a charming blend of slice-of-life and supernatural comedy, which revolves around a Japanese salarywoman navigating her unusual life alongside dragon girls. The series is renowned for its heartwarming moments, humor, and adorable characters. However, viewers who may have only caught glimpses of the show might overlook the intricate lore and thrilling action that permeate its narrative.
The film Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid: A Lonely Dragon Wants To Be Loved, directed by Tatsuya Ishihara, retains the quintessential elements of a moe slice-of-life while also delving deeper into the action and lore than the series has ever done before. While the original anime oscillated between lightheartedness and heavier themes, the movie takes a more serious approach, exploring the deeper emotional currents of the story, which was precisely what I hoped to see.
The plot centers on a young dragon named Kanna Kamui, who receives a request from her father to return to the dragon realm and fulfill her responsibilities. Kobayashi and Tohru, both protective of Kanna, hesitate to comply, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict.
The Visual and Artistic Brilliance of Kyoto Animation
Kyoto Animation has a storied reputation for its stunning animation, as evidenced by acclaimed titles like Violet Evergarden and Sound! Euphonium. While Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid always had its charm through its characters and storytelling, witnessing its world brought to life on the big screen was a revelatory experience. The film’s animation quality is exceptional, showcasing not only the vibrant settings but also the dynamic fight sequences that elevate the storytelling.
The cinematography in this film is a visual feast, showcasing the characters and their surroundings in ways that enhance the narrative. The fight scenes are particularly noteworthy, offering a level of expressiveness and flair that rivals even legendary franchises like Dragon Ball Z. Moments of tension and action allow characters like Tohru to shine, showcasing their powers in a way that fans will thoroughly enjoy. For anyone who appreciates the more action-oriented moments from the anime, A Lonely Dragon Wants To Be Loved is a treasure trove of excitement.
A Heartfelt Soundtrack
Music plays a significant role in the emotional impact of the film. To my surprise, the soundtrack included poignant piano scores reminiscent of the heartfelt melodies found in CLANNAD. These musical pieces heighten the film’s emotional stakes, drawing viewers deeper into the narrative. The more somber moments resonate even more profoundly against the backdrop of the tragic loss of Yasuhiro Takemoto, the original director of Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid, who was sadly taken from us in the Kyoto Animation arson attack in 2019. The film serves as a testament to the resilience of Kyoto Animation and its ability to produce such a beautiful work amidst adversity.
While the primary focus of the movie is on Kanna’s journey, familiar characters from the television series join in on the quest to protect her. The film enriches the lore of the dragon world, illustrating the complexities of coexistence between dragons and humans. It’s an engaging narrative that will resonate with both casual viewers and devoted fans of the series.
Experience the Magic in Theaters
For those who have only casually watched the first season, or for die-hard fans of Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid, this film is a must-see when it becomes available in your area. If you find yourself in Japan, you have a limited window of about six weeks to catch it in theaters. As an added bonus, attendees in Japan receive a special piece of artwork alongside their ticket while supplies last, a delightful keepsake for fans.
You can also explore the series on streaming platforms such as Crunchyroll or Netflix in select regions, allowing both new viewers and long-time fans to engage with this enchanting world.
In summary, Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid: A Lonely Dragon Wants To Be Loved is not just a film; it’s an experience that captures the essence of the series while expanding its universe. The combination of captivating animation, an engaging story, and an emotional soundtrack makes it a landmark moment for fans of the franchise. Whether you’re watching in Japan or waiting for its international release, this film is poised to leave a lasting impression.
