I didn’t really know what to expect going into the theater to see this. For context I’ve never seen any of the anime (a problem I will rectify.) I absolutely loved Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Beginning of a New Era. Beautiful art style, compelling characters, and a narrative with depth that I was not expecting. Horse girl racing is my new favorite sport. ★★★★★★★★★★🏁❤ Highly Recommend It’s Phenomenal

From the first frame to the final beat, this film is a triumphant celebration of ambition, camaraderie, and the fierce beauty of competition. Clocking in at a tight 1h 48m, it never wastes a moment: the pacing is confident, the emotional beats land hard, and every scene is crafted to both dazzle and move. As Jungle Pocket chases the once-in-a-lifetime Classic Triple Crown, the movie balances the thrill of the race with quieter, character-driven moments that give the stakes real heart. Visually, the film is gorgeous. The animation elevates the spectacle of racing — speed, tactics, and tension are rendered with clarity and flair — while softer shots let character expressions and relationships breathe. Cygames and the production team deliver a look that feels both polished and lively, keeping anime fans fully engaged without overwhelming the story. The voice cast is superb. Yuri Fujimoto brings Jungle Pocket to life with a compelling mix of grit and vulnerability, while the outstanding ensemble (including Sumire Uesaka, Yui Ogura, and many others) gives each rival and teammate distinct presence. Direction and series composition (Tetsuya Kobari and team) guide the narrative so that every performance and plot turn supports the film’s emotional core. Tone-wise this leans into drama and inspiration while still allowing moments of comedy and warmth. It respects the source material’s world-building and gives longtime fans satisfying depth, while remaining accessible to newcomers thanks to clear storytelling and strong character focus. In short: a beautifully animated, emotionally resonant sports anime film that nails both spectacle and substance. Whether you came for the races, the characters, or the emotional payoff, this is a must-watch — easily a 10/10.