In a year packed with blockbuster releases, an anime movie has quietly claimed the top spot on Letterboxd. Chainsaw Man — The Movie: Reze Arc has been crowned the highest-rated film of 2025 on the popular movie-logging platform, and it's easy to see why. The film picks up right where the first season of the anime left off, plunging viewers back into the chaotic world of Denji, the chainsaw-wielding devil hunter. With its blend of over-the-top action and surprisingly tender moments, this adaptation has struck a chord with both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
A Faithful Adaptation That Breaks the Mold
Unlike many anime movies tied to popular series—think One Piece or Naruto—Reze Arc isn't a filler story. It adapts a canonical arc from Tatsuki Fujimoto's original manga, giving fans a big-screen experience that actually advances the plot. Studio MAPPA, known for their high-octane work on Attack on Titan and Jujutsu Kaisen, took a page from Demon Slayer's playbook by turning a major storyline into a feature-length film. This approach paid off, delivering a cinematic experience that feels essential rather than optional.
From Slow Burn to Unhinged Chaos
The movie starts with a deceptively quiet setup: Denji meets a sweet girl named Reze, and the two begin a tentative romance. But as anyone familiar with Chainsaw Man knows, peace never lasts. When Reze's dark secret is revealed, the plot spirals into a frenzy of devil battles and jaw-dropping set pieces. The car chase with the Bomb Devil and the showdown with the Typhoon Devil are highlights, showcasing MAPPA's animation at its most spectacular. The extra time and budget clearly went to good use—every frame is packed with detail and energy.
Emotional Depth Beneath the Gore
What truly elevates Reze Arc beyond a simple action spectacle is its emotional core. Denji remains one of anime's most endearing protagonists—naive, kind, and surprisingly gentle despite his brutal lifestyle. His relationship with Reze is given room to breathe, making the inevitable chaos feel all the more impactful. Even Aki, Denji's stoic partner, gets a moment to show his vulnerability, revealing the deep care he has for his comrades. These human touches ground the story, adding a bittersweet melancholy that lingers long after the credits roll.
For those who've been waiting since the anime's first season ended in December 2022, Reze Arc is a worthy payoff. It's a rare anime film that satisfies both as a continuation and as a standalone piece. If you're looking for more hidden gems in the streaming world, check out our list of underrated sci-fi films or explore timeless crime classics for your next movie night.
With its perfect blend of action, emotion, and faithful storytelling, Chainsaw Man — The Movie: Reze Arc has earned its place as Letterboxd's top film of 2025. It's a must-watch for anime fans and a great entry point for those curious about the hype.
