The popular romantic comedy anime franchise, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War, has brought its main story arc to a heartwarming conclusion with the anime film Kaguya-sama: Love Is War -The First Kiss That Never Ends-. The film, which directly follows the events of the third anime season, premiered in Japanese theaters in December 2022, offering fans a definitive resolution to the romantic mind games of Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane.
The movie serves as the official animated finale for the beloved series, adapting the pivotal “First Kiss That Never Ends” arc from Aka Akasaka’s original manga. Under the supervision of the series creator, the film meticulously brings to life the long-anticipated developments in the relationship between the two proud student council leaders.
The Journey to “The First Kiss That Never Ends”
Kaguya-sama: Love Is War first captivated audiences with its unique premise in 2019, showcasing the psychological battle between Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane, two brilliant students who are too proud to confess their love, instead devising elaborate schemes to make the other confess first. The anime quickly gained a dedicated following, leading to a second season in 2020 and a third season in 2022.
The third season, titled Kaguya-sama: Love Is War -Ultra Romantic-, left viewers on a cliffhanger, naturally transitioning into the narrative picked up by The First Kiss That Never Ends film. This strategic release allowed the anime to maintain narrative continuity and provide a comprehensive wrap-up to the core romantic conflict.
Plot Overview: The Unforgettable First Kiss
The film delves into the aftermath of the intense student council election and the growing, yet still unacknowledged, feelings between Kaguya and Shirogane. As their relationship teeters on the brink of confession, the “First Kiss That Never Ends” arc explores the emotional complexities and vulnerabilities that both characters face. It provides a deeper look into their personal struggles and the societal pressures that often dictate their actions, ultimately culminating in a moment that reshapes their dynamic. The narrative is a testament to the series’ ability to blend comedic genius with genuine emotional depth, making the titular first kiss a highly anticipated and significant event.
Stellar Voice Cast Reprise Roles
The iconic characters of Shuchiin Academy’s student council are brought to life once again by their original Japanese voice actors. Aoi Koga returns as the formidable Kaguya Shinomiya, with Makoto Furukawa as the diligent Miyuki Shirogane. Konomi Kohara voices the energetic Chika Fujiwara, Ryota Suzuki as the often-misunderstood Yu Ishigami, Miyu Tomita as the earnest Miko Iino, and Yumiri Hanamori as the perceptive Ai Hayasaka. Their consistent performances have been a cornerstone of the anime’s success, and their return for the finale film ensures an authentic and beloved portrayal of these fan-favorite characters.
International Reception and Availability
Following its successful theatrical run in Japan, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War -The First Kiss That Never Ends- has seen international distribution, allowing fans worldwide to experience the conclusion of the anime series. The film’s release outside of Japan, often through Crunchyroll, has been met with enthusiasm, solidifying its place as a significant entry in the Kaguya-sama canon. This global reach ensures that the saga of Kaguya and Shirogane’s love story can be appreciated by its extensive international fanbase.
Distinguishing from Live-Action Adaptations
It is important to note that Kaguya-sama: Love Is War has also received live-action film adaptations. A live-action film was released in September 2019, followed by a sequel titled Kaguya-sama Final: Love Is War in August 2021. While these films cover similar source material, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War -The First Kiss That Never Ends- specifically refers to the animated feature film that concludes the anime series.
The anime film stands as a testament to the series’ enduring popularity and its narrative commitment to delivering a fulfilling conclusion for its dedicated viewers.
