by The beloved anime series Kaguya-sama: Love is War is officially approaching its conclusion. It has been announced that a completely new theatrical film, titled Kaguya-sama: Love is War – Final Chapter, is currently in production. The announcement came as a surprise following the broadcast of the TV special Kaguya-sama: Love is War – The Stairway to Adulthood, which aired on December 31, 2025.
The reveal immediately set social media abuzz, as fans learned that the upcoming movie will not be a standard adaptation of existing manga material. Instead, it will feature a completely original story written by Aka Akasaka himself, marking a rare and ambitious creative decision for a long-running anime franchise.
A Truly New Story Not Just an Adaptation
Alongside the announcement, a teaser trailer and a detailed comment from Aka Akasaka were released. In his statement, Akasaka explained that the idea for a brand-new ending had been discussed with the anime production team approximately four years ago.
“The anime team and I had always wanted to create something completely new something that no one had ever seen before rather than simply adapting the original manga,” Akasaka said. “When we talked about it, everyone on the production team agreed. That conversation happened about four years ago.”
Rather than extending the story out of obligation, Akasaka described the process as both exciting and frightening, as it required adding new meaning to a story that had already reached a satisfying conclusion in manga form.
“Terrifying, But Fun”: Akasaka on Writing the Final Chapter
Akasaka went on to describe the long period of contemplation that followed the decision:
“Ever since then, I kept thinking about what kind of story would be right. What kind of ‘unnecessary additions’ I could make to a story that had already been closed. It was terrifying but also fun.”
He explained that one day, a single idea finally crystallized:
“At that moment, I knew this was it.”
At the same time, Akasaka acknowledged the enormous challenge facing the anime staff, many of whom have worked on Kaguya-sama for nearly eight years.
“I thought, ‘Wow, this must be a tough one for the anime team.’ But I trust them completely. This is probably the last one, so I hope they’ll forgive me for making a slightly unreasonable request.”
He concluded by describing the film as “new, yet nostalgic,” and expressed his hope that fans will feel they are witnessing the definitive final form of Kaguya-sama.
What Is The Stairway to Adulthood?
The TV special The Stairway to Adulthood, which aired on New Year’s Eve, serves as a bridge between the previous adaptations and the upcoming movie. It depicts events after the main story involving:
- Miyuki Shirogane, the proud and hardworking student council president
- Kaguya Shinomiya, the brilliant yet emotionally reserved vice president
- The rest of the eccentric student council members
Rather than focusing on the familiar “battle of wits” romantic comedy format, the special leans into themes of growth, change, and life after confession, preparing viewers for a more mature final chapter.
A Franchise That Defined a Generation
Kaguya-sama: Love is War began as a manga serialized in Weekly Young Jump and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The anime adaptation has so far included:
- Three TV anime seasons
- A theatrical sequel film
- Multiple OVAs and special episodes
The series earned widespread praise for its sharp comedy, inventive narration, and surprisingly emotional character development. For many fans, Kaguya-sama represents one of the most successful romantic comedy anime of the past decade.
Why This Final Movie Matters
Unlike many anime finales that simply adapt remaining manga chapters, Final Chapter represents something much rarer:
- A creator-written original conclusion
- A story developed specifically for animation
- A true “after story” that explores life beyond the ending
For longtime fans, this offers emotional closure. For newer viewers, it highlights the strength of the franchise and the trust between creator and animation staff.
Is This Really the End?
While Akasaka strongly implied that this will be the final installment, he stopped short of making an absolute declaration. However, his wording“surely the very last Kaguya-sama”suggests that the film is intended to serve as the definitive conclusion.
Given the care and time invested in its development, expectations are extremely high.
Beginner-Friendly: Can New Viewers Jump In?
For viewers new to Kaguya-sama, it is recommended to:
- Watch Season 1–3 of the TV anime
- Watch the previous theatrical sequel
- Watch The Stairway to Adulthood TV special
Doing so will provide full emotional context before the Final Chapter film.
Final Thoughts
The announcement of Kaguya-sama: Love is War Final Chapter marks the end of an era. With Aka Akasaka personally crafting a brand-new story and the long-time anime team returning for one last challenge, the film promises to be more than a conclusion it aims to be a celebration.
For fans who laughed, cried, and grew alongside Kaguya and Shirogane, this final chapter may well become one of the most memorable anime endings of the decade.
