Anime Feminist

Goodbye, Lara as an intertextual queer retelling

Alex Henderson — Fri, 06 Nov 2026 18:00:00 +0000

This very meta fairy tale retelling both critiques and pays homage to everything that came before it.

The post Goodbye, Lara as an intertextual queer retelling appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Chatty AF 246: 2026 Summer Season Wrap-Up (Part 2)

Peter Fobian — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Dee, Caitlin, and Peter return for part 2 of our massive 2026 Summer Season Wrap-Up where we spend a whole podcast covering Feminist Potential and Sequel titles from the season!

The post Chatty AF 246: 2026 Summer Season Wrap-Up (Part 2) appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Anime Feminist Recommendations of Summer 2026

Anime Feminist — Sun, 01 Nov 2026 23:55:35 +0000

Summer gave us plenty to chew on, from sweet rom-coms to fairy tale retellings.

The post Anime Feminist Recommendations of Summer 2026 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

2026 Fall Premiere Digest

Anime Feminist — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 17:00:00 +0000

While this autumn doesn't offer as bountiful a harvest of anime as earlier in the year, there are still hopefully some series to look forward to.

The post 2026 Fall Premiere Digest appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Magic Knight Rayearth (2026) – Episodes 1-2

Vrai Kaiser — Fri, 23 Oct 2026 01:06:52 +0000

It's great to see a shojo fantasy classic treated with so much love; bursting with charm and a great pick for middle-school viewers.

The post Magic Knight Rayearth (2026) – Episodes 1-2 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Dandivine – Episodes 1-2

Vrai Kaiser — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 15:00:00 +0000

A playful parody of giant robot shows that will probably work best for fans of the genre, but still has its own charm.

The post Dandivine – Episodes 1-2 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Horror Collector – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 03:00:00 +0000

A satisfyingly eerie adaptation of a middle grade novel series. If you have horror fan tweens in your life, you might enjoy this one together (just keep the lights on).

The post Horror Collector – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 01:12:54 +0000

A perfectly fine isekai that focuses on the realistic experience of restarting life in another world with a regular person's magic abilities.

The post Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

TETSURYO! meet with Tetsudou Musume – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 00:00:29 +0000

You'll be chugga-chugging right along with this premiere that introduces a new college student to the wonderful world of trains.

The post TETSURYO! meet with Tetsudou Musume – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Laid-Off Cheat-Granting Mage Enjoys a Second Lease on Life – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 16:00:59 +0000

Nice Guy Rein isn't enough to keep this show from potentially trending toward some of its more upsetting contemporaries, neutral as it seems.

The post The Laid-Off Cheat-Granting Mage Enjoys a Second Lease on Life – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Firefly Wedding – Episode 1

Dee — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 03:00:00 +0000

For a series largely framing itself as a melodrama, there sure is a metric ton of social commentary baked into it.

The post Firefly Wedding – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Chatty AF 245: 2026 Summer Season Wrap-Up (Part 1)

Anime Feminist — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 00:15:42 +0000

A massive batch of good anime deserves a podcast length to match it, so we're delivering this one as a two-parter!

The post Chatty AF 245: 2026 Summer Season Wrap-Up (Part 1) appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Battle Spirits [Re] ZEKKAI NO KU

Cy Catwell — Sun, 18 Oct 2026 21:00:43 +0000

Battle Spirits takes a classic shonen recipe and adds a few simple, fresh ingredients to make for a pretty interesting new series.

The post Battle Spirits [Re] ZEKKAI NO KU appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Suikoden: The Anime – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sun, 18 Oct 2026 17:32:41 +0000

This fifty-minute premiere offers up a tried-and-true story about the nature of war and the young men caught in the middle of it.

The post Suikoden: The Anime – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

MAGICAL GIRL RAISING PROJECT restart – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Fri, 16 Oct 2026 16:00:00 +0000

This premiere begs the question, "Why do these girls have to suffer for our entertainment all over again?"

The post MAGICAL GIRL RAISING PROJECT restart – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Dark Machine the Animation – Episode 1

Dee — Fri, 16 Oct 2026 15:30:00 +0000

The characters may be able to solve their problems with robot battles, but the narrative sure can't.

The post Dark Machine the Animation – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Vermillion Mask – Episode 1

Tony Sun Prickett — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 03:26:15 +0000

A decent if fairly boilerplate seinen battle fantasy show.

The post The Vermillion Mask – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Nia Liston: The Merciless Maiden – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 03:10:52 +0000

Good plot abounds in a premiere about a four year getting a second chance at life when a bloodthirsty hero's soul inhabits her body.

The post Nia Liston: The Merciless Maiden – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Even the Student Council Has Its Holes! – Episodes 1-2

Cy Catwell — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 16:14:22 +0000

Never has banging my head on the wall felt so appealing after this wall-to-wall parade of samey slapstick sex jokes.

The post Even the Student Council Has Its Holes! – Episodes 1-2 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

PSYREN – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 17:00:00 +0000

This blast from the past (ie over a decade old) series fills its runtime with 95% just okay story until the very last minute, making for a confusingly boring premiere.

The post PSYREN – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

So What’s Wrong with Getting Reborn as a Goblin? – Episodes 1-2

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 16:30:00 +0000

Nonsense worldbuilding and sexism makes this isekai a real dud.

The post So What’s Wrong with Getting Reborn as a Goblin? – Episodes 1-2 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Cold Sato-San is Only Sweet to Me – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 02:29:08 +0000

This premiere will leave you feeling cold as you question our female lead's viability as a regular teenager in our everyday world, no sweetness insured.

The post The Cold Sato-San is Only Sweet to Me – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Magical Explorer – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 23:02:09 +0000

This eroge isekai is gross enough to leave a mental oil slick.

The post Magical Explorer – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The World’s Strongest Witch – Episode 1

Alex Henderson — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 20:00:00 +0000

This premiere is silly in a good way, providing plenty of meta humor about RPGs and game mechanics and committing to the bit.

The post The World’s Strongest Witch – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Super Psychic Policeman Chojo – Episode 1

Dee — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 19:00:00 +0000

A buddy-cop comedy that's trying to both lampoon and excuse bad cops but manages to be kinda fun in spite of that.

The post Super Psychic Policeman Chojo – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Hello, I Am a Witch and My Crush Wants Me to Make a Love Potion! – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Sometimes we just need a good old-fashioned love story, and I’m glad this show is going to deliver on that promise.

The post Hello, I Am a Witch and My Crush Wants Me to Make a Love Potion! – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Reborn as a Space Mercenary: I Woke Up Piloting the Strongest Starship! – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Another "reborn in an MMO" series with an especially horny approach and a grating protagonist.

The post Reborn as a Space Mercenary: I Woke Up Piloting the Strongest Starship! – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Magic Repo Man: Dumped by My Party, I’ll Cash In With a Cute Support Fairy to Become the Strongest! – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 16:14:34 +0000

You've seen this show before: the seemingly weak protagonist man is secretly the hottest shit in (inset name) fantasy realm. Cue boob nonsense.

The post Magic Repo Man: Dumped by My Party, I’ll Cash In With a Cute Support Fairy to Become the Strongest! – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

VERTEX FORCE – Episode 1

Vrai Kaiser — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 04:25:11 +0000

Telling a story about alien invasions in Okinawa could go in interesting directions, but the horny camera keeps getting in the way.

The post VERTEX FORCE – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

From Far Away – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 03:10:37 +0000

The animation is decent, but I really love how this 90s shojo adaptation shows care and confidence in its storytelling.

The post From Far Away – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Even Though I’m a Super Timid Noble Girl, I Accepted the Bet From My Cunning Fiancé – Episode 1

Alex Henderson — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 19:03:53 +0000

A fossil-hunting fantasy heroine is a cool concept, but the isekai trappings are still very bland.

The post Even Though I’m a Super Timid Noble Girl, I Accepted the Bet From My Cunning Fiancé – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Romelia War Chronicle – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:30:00 +0000

A promising and very pretty "life after war" series with a heroine who shines as a strategist.

The post Romelia War Chronicle – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Seven Knights of the Marronnier Kingdom – Episode 1

Dee — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

If you can find a little Grimm in your heart, there’s a whole lot to like about this fairy tale-inspired josei fantasy.

The post The Seven Knights of the Marronnier Kingdom – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Tank Chair – Episode 1

Tony Sun Prickett — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 21:00:00 +0000

There's room for this to be interesting from a disability justice perspective, but right now it's mostly badly executed hyperviolence and characters who feel paper-thin.

The post Tank Chair – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

A Tale of a Secret Saint – Episodes 1-2

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

It's always depressing when another fantasy show with a female protagonist barely moves and looks awful; women deserve good popcorn shows too!

The post A Tale of a Secret Saint – Episodes 1-2 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Uncle’s Obsession With Cute Things – Episode 1

Alex Henderson — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 15:12:23 +0000

If this is a slice-of-life comedy, why is this guy so sad?

The post Uncle’s Obsession With Cute Things – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

FX Fighter Kurumi-chan – Episode 1

Vrai Kaiser — Sun, 04 Oct 2026 21:19:24 +0000

On the one hand it's bleak and unflinching in how high-risk investment trading ruined a girl's family...but that's the prologue to what appears to be a cute hobby anime about said high-risk investment trading.

The post FX Fighter Kurumi-chan – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

#I’m Looking For a Zombie – Episode 1

Alex Henderson — Sun, 04 Oct 2026 19:29:49 +0000

This horror-action-comedy has an intriguing emotional hook and, so far, a solid heroine.

The post #I’m Looking For a Zombie – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Overgeared – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 23:32:18 +0000

A Solo Leveling also-ran with an unengaging protagonist and an uneven tone.

The post Overgeared – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The AniFem Guide to Shojosei Series Coming Out in Fall 2026

Caitlin Moore — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 01:31:52 +0000

We cobbled together some pre-release notes about this season's upcoming shojosei titles to help audiences find the right show for them.

The post The AniFem Guide to Shojosei Series Coming Out in Fall 2026 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Lively, Happy People: An Interview with Akiko Higashimura

Caitlin Moore — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 22:02:03 +0000

We were lucky enough to sit down for an interview with Higashimura, the massively accomplished mangaka best known in English for Princess Jellyfish

The post Lively, Happy People: An Interview with Akiko Higashimura appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Performing Girlhood Under Surveillance: Ai’s body as spectacle in Oshi no Ko

Jason Collins — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 18:14:29 +0000

Through her curated idol persona, Ai’s girlhood is reframed as labor, and as a product to be carefully marketed and sold.

The post Performing Girlhood Under Surveillance: Ai’s body as spectacle in Oshi no Ko appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Have you used anime or manga as an educational resource?

Anime Feminist — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 23:00:00 +0000

The post Have you used anime or manga as an educational resource? appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Healing and Recovery: The Heroine’s Journey in My Happy Marriage

Sree — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 17:22:05 +0000

My Happy Marriage begins in the familiar tropes of an arranged marriage romance, but its focus on the healing arc of its main female character allows the show to fully blossom.

The post Healing and Recovery: The Heroine’s Journey in My Happy Marriage appeared first on Anime Feminist.

What anime completely rewired your brain?

Anime Feminist — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 11:00:32 +0000

The post What anime completely rewired your brain? appeared first on Anime Feminist.

What streaming-only anime would you love to collect on home video?

Anime Feminist — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 23:00:00 +0000

The post What streaming-only anime would you love to collect on home video? appeared first on Anime Feminist.

What’s your favorite indie manga?

Anime Feminist — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 23:00:00 +0000

The post What’s your favorite indie manga? appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Who Gets to Learn? Education, power, and feminist pedagogy in Witch Hat Atelier

Zofi Ysa — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Qifrey’s approach to teaching closely resembles principles associated with feminist pedagogy, an approach to education that views learning as a collaborative process grounded in dialogue, critical thinking, and mutual respect.

The post Who Gets to Learn? Education, power, and feminist pedagogy in Witch Hat Atelier appeared first on Anime Feminist.

2026 Summer Three-Episode Check-In

Anime Feminist — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Aside from a couple of nosedives, Summer is shaping up to be a season full of pleasant surprises!

The post 2026 Summer Three-Episode Check-In appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Building Intertextual Communities through Anime Journalism with Anime Herald Founder and EIC Samantha Ferreira

Cy Catwell — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Anifem's own Cy Catwell sat down for a digital chat with Anime Herald Founder and EIC ahead of the second released of Anime Herald's digital and print magazine to discuss what it means to intentionally produce fandom-focused publications in 2026's media landscape.

The post Building Intertextual Communities through Anime Journalism with Anime Herald Founder and EIC Samantha Ferreira appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Anime Feminist Recommendations of Spring 2026

Anime Feminist — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 01:05:06 +0000

Our staff picks from Spring include fantasy adventures, earnestly weird high schoolers, and tender yuri.

The post Anime Feminist Recommendations of Spring 2026 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Spring 2026 Season Wreck: Needy Girl Overdose

Chiaki Mitama — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

NEEDY GIRL OVERDOSE is an incredible show, but it might, for all intents and purposes, not be for you.

The post Spring 2026 Season Wreck: Needy Girl Overdose appeared first on Anime Feminist.

2026 Summer Premiere Digest

Anime Feminist — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:29:27 +0000

Summertime means long days, golden sunshine, and plenty of potentially interesting new anime to choose from---from sweeping historical epics to fairy tale retellings to classic sci-fi.

The post 2026 Summer Premiere Digest appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Draw This, Then Die! – Episodes 1-2

Vrai Kaiser — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 03:54:02 +0000

This is a deceptive little series, soft and adorable and largely a “sensible chuckle” kind of comedy; then it turns around and socks you in the gut by having one of its squishy-cheeked characters deliver a genuinely affecting monologue about burnout.

The post Draw This, Then Die! – Episodes 1-2 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games – Episode 1

Vrai Kaiser — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

An excellent series with a side of yuri , about two girls finding community in their "unladylike" hobby.

The post Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Though I am an Inept Villainess – Episode 1

Tony Sun Prickett — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:00:00 +0000

While it is unlikely to rise to the heights of Mitsue Yamazaki’s greatest properties, it can be recommended to those who want a better version of the villainess fantasy that has become all the rage lately.

The post Though I am an Inept Villainess – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Tomb Raider King — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Korean animation adaptations deserve a lot more respect, but this middling story that feels like a riff on an already bloated subgenre of male fantasy anime isn't helping the medium get the positive representation it needs to be on more equitably footing.

The post Tomb Raider King — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Let’s go KAIKIGUMI — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

A strange and off-putting comedic horror that doesn't feel very funny or even very scary.

The post Let’s go KAIKIGUMI — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

MEBIUS DUST — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Underwelming despite being an anime original, this premiere will have you counting the minutes until you can watch anything else, and honestly, that's a shame since plot wrangling could have giving this preteen anime potential.

The post MEBIUS DUST — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

My Stepmother and Stepsisters Aren’t Wicked — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

Raise that hand to your chin, tilt your head just so, and let out a proud Ah-ha-ha-ha! Tis time to see what viciousness abounds in a premiere that's anything but wicked!

The post My Stepmother and Stepsisters Aren’t Wicked — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Previous violence begets bickering in a hilarious rom-com where the Demon King is a NEET, the Hero is a high schooler, and they seem destined for a less grisly fate in a world full of peace but ripe for revenge!

The post Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

GROW UP SHOW -Sunflower Circus- – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 19:00:46 +0000

A high-flying premiere that strives to wow with its minimal acrobatics, but ultimately needs a bit more practice before it's ready for the big top.

The post GROW UP SHOW -Sunflower Circus- – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Forsaken Saintess and Her Foodie Road Trip in Another World – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 17:00:17 +0000

Delightful from the first bite, this premiere celebrates the slow life in another world through food, camping, and community.

The post The Forsaken Saintess and Her Foodie Road Trip in Another World – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Oh Boy, Was I Wrong About Her – Episode 1

Dee — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 14:00:00 +0000

This premiere handles The Gender Of It All surprisingly well, but it's trapped in the Mediocre Valley thanks to an uninspired, stiff adaptation.

The post Oh Boy, Was I Wrong About Her – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

I Want to Love You Till Your Dying Day — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 05:00:45 +0000

A fantastic, haunting premiere that sets the stage for an intense but tender sapphic story backset by blood and sacrifice.

The post I Want to Love You Till Your Dying Day — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The World’s Strongest Rearguard – Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 01:41:38 +0000

You'll be wishing you were reincarnated in a bus accident with a premiere that's as exciting as overcooked rice and, once again, has slavery in it.

The post The World’s Strongest Rearguard – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Ghost in the Shell – Episode 1

Tony Sun Prickett — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:00:15 +0000

The Ghost in the Shell is truly Ghost in the Shell as only Science Saru could have adapted it.

The post The Ghost in the Shell – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Red River – Episode 1

Chiaki Mitama — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 19:41:26 +0000

A serviceable, if middling, start to an epic tale about ancient Anatolia.

The post Red River – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Victoria of Many Faces – Episode 1

Alex Henderson — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 18:00:00 +0000

This story about an escaped former spy clearly wants to be "nice" before it wants to be "engaging" or "intriguing".

The post Victoria of Many Faces – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

A Livid Lady’s Guide to Getting Even: How I Crushed My Homeland with My Mighty Grimoires – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:30:00 +0000

It's not going to reshape the villainess genre, but it could be an enjoyable time for anyone looking for a proactive protagonist.

The post A Livid Lady’s Guide to Getting Even: How I Crushed My Homeland with My Mighty Grimoires – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Love Unseen Beneath the Clear Night Sky – Episode 1

Alex Henderson — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

While this premiere about a mopey boy and his blind love interest has its heart in the right place, it also has some room to grow.

The post Love Unseen Beneath the Clear Night Sky – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Insipid Prince’s Furtive Grab for The Throne – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

What’s it about? Arnold is the seventh prince of the Adrasia Empire who’s known for being “dull”. He purposefully lets that be known about him because he doesn’t want to become emperor and would much rather live a quiet and peaceful life. In order to achieve his goals he’s willing to do politicking behind the scenes by […]

The post The Insipid Prince’s Furtive Grab for The Throne – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Iron Wok Jan – Episode 1

Chiaki Mitama — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:30:00 +0000

A classic '90s manga getting a faithful adaptation should send off klaxons, but maybe this could be celebratory in nature. Either way, Chiaki is ready to eat it all up.

The post Iron Wok Jan – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

BLACK TORCH – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Aside from some fun moments with the hero's animal-speaking powers, this shonen premiere feels like it's going through a checklist.

The post BLACK TORCH – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Goodbye, Lara — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:30:00 +0000

A fantastic premiere that captures the heart of animation by presenting a retro-style design with a rich color story and a fantastic main character that you can't help but immediately love.

The post Goodbye, Lara — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Rich Girl Caretaker: I’m Secretly the Caregiver of the Most Popular Girl in This Rich Kid School — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Rich girl meets poor boy in a romantic comedy premiere that is supposed to be funny, but misses the mark completely due to its belongs-in-the-trash writing.

The post Rich Girl Caretaker: I’m Secretly the Caregiver of the Most Popular Girl in This Rich Kid School — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Duke’s Son Claims He Won’t Love Me Yet Showers Me with Adoration — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

A soft and sweet premiere that establish the possibility that you can marry and fall in love in that exact order, even when one side just wants a political match.

The post The Duke’s Son Claims He Won’t Love Me Yet Showers Me with Adoration — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Sparks of Tomorrow – Episode 1

Dee — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

There's a lot of passion and creativity put into this premiere, even if it struggles to find cohesion between its many moving pieces.

The post Sparks of Tomorrow – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

BanG Dream! YUME∞MITA — Episodes 1-3

Cy Catwell — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:51:56 +0000

A round of applause for another stellar entry into the BanG Dream! franchise, this time with virtual musicians aiming to make a mark online.

The post BanG Dream! YUME∞MITA — Episodes 1-3 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Ogre’s Bride – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:46:30 +0000

Fans of Cinderella stories will likely be a fan of this supernatural romance as well.

The post The Ogre’s Bride – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Exiled Heavy Knight Knows How to Game the System — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:41:02 +0000

A visually overwhelming anime premiere that will, at best, leave you bored but at worst, will literally induce a migraine during your watch.

The post The Exiled Heavy Knight Knows How to Game the System — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

I Became a Legend After My 10 Year-Long Last Stand — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:37:40 +0000

A pleasant premiere that feels grounded in its world and avoids the often fraught tropes in general fantasy anime by simply being normal about its cast.

The post I Became a Legend After My 10 Year-Long Last Stand — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Chainsmoker Cat – Episode 1

Vrai Kaiser — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:54:17 +0000

Chainsmoker Cat is the artistic equivalent of trying something on a dare and almost throwing up...then finding yourself going back for another taste.

The post Chainsmoker Cat – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia – Episode 1 – 2

Alex Henderson — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:30:00 +0000

A beautifully-rendered, heartbreaking double premiere about the horror and tragedy of war and invasion... and one girl's grasp for her own agency in the middle of it all.

The post Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia – Episode 1 – 2 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:00 +0000

A complicated premiere that never wrestles with its very white main character owning nomadic oni land and instead sets up an interspecies romance with an ambiguously aged character.

The post The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Please Excuse My Younger Brothers — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Blended families---and blended romances---abound in a premiere that's all about finding your stride in a new household full of unexpected brothers.

The post Please Excuse My Younger Brothers — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Recommendations from Iwamoto-Senpai – Episode 1

Chiaki Mitama — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

There's a whole lot going on here and it's hard to say what any of this will pan out to at the end of the day.

The post Recommendations from Iwamoto-Senpai – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

KAIJU GIRL CARAMELISE — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

You'll be wanting to kiss-kiss-rawr in love with this monstrous romantic comedy about a kaiju girl who yearns for connection and the genuinely nice boy who likes her.

The post KAIJU GIRL CARAMELISE — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Villager of Level 999 – Episodes 1-2

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

A power fantasy with dull writing, fan service, and a side of transphobia.

The post The Villager of Level 999 – Episodes 1-2 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

2026 Summer Premiere Reviews

Anime Feminist — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 03:56:48 +0000

All the summer premiere reviews in one easy-to-find place. We’ll update the chart as new series become available, so be sure to check back in the coming days for more!

The post 2026 Summer Premiere Reviews appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Oblivious Saint Can’t Contain Her Power – Episode 1

ThatNerdyBoliviane — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 00:51:51 +0000

This is a fine but unmemorable fantasy romance that unfortunately looks a bit rough.

The post The Oblivious Saint Can’t Contain Her Power – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Dara-san of Reiwa – Episode 1

Alex Henderson — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 23:14:41 +0000

A potentially fun premise for a supernatural comedy that gets mired in lousy jokes.

The post Dara-san of Reiwa – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The World is Dancing – Episode 1

Dee — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 02:59:32 +0000

History meets familiar family conflict meets stunning animation in this promising premiere about a real-life Noh actor and playwright.

The post The World is Dancing – Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

From Overshadowed to Overpowered: Second Reincarnation of a Talentless Sage — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:00:00 +0000

You'll be wishing you were reincarnated into a better premiere with this dead on arrival show that is as dull as dishwater from start to finish.

The post From Overshadowed to Overpowered: Second Reincarnation of a Talentless Sage — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The Cat and the Dragon — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

A paw-sitively purr-fect pre-meow-ire that will make cozy fantasy fans smile from start to finish.

The post The Cat and the Dragon — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Heroine? Saint? No, I’m an All-Works Maid (And Proud of It)! — Episode 1

Cy Catwell — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

You'll be doing your all seasons cleaning after you watch this upbeat premiere about a maid otaku who gets her wish in another world!

The post Heroine? Saint? No, I’m an All-Works Maid (And Proud of It)! — Episode 1 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

What’s your favorite messy queer series?

Anime Feminist — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 02:30:13 +0000

The post What’s your favorite messy queer series? appeared first on Anime Feminist.

The AniFem Guide to Shojosei Series Coming Out in Summer 2026

Caitlin Moore — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 17:29:43 +0000

With 11 series on this list, Summer 2026 might actually mark the highest raw number of shojo series premiering in one season since the site began.
With historical fiction, adaptations of classic manga, rom-coms, isekai, and pretty much every popular genre in the medium is represented here.

The post The AniFem Guide to Shojosei Series Coming Out in Summer 2026 appeared first on Anime Feminist.

Frieren Takes Its Time: How care reshapes fantasy pacing

Darius Ahmadi — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 23:36:27 +0000

A journey can begin because someone remembers food, clothing, sleep, weather, and routine. This kind of labor is often feminized and often pushed to the edge of adventure stories. Frieren pulls it into the center.

The post Frieren Takes Its Time: How care reshapes fantasy pacing appeared first on Anime Feminist.

A Juneteenth Treatise: or, Thoughts on Isekai’s Slavery Problem

Cy Catwell — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 19:36:58 +0000

Cookout style thoughts and vibes in an article that ponders the ongoing cruelty and nature of slavery in isekai in an increasingly diverse, global community.

The post A Juneteenth Treatise: or, Thoughts on Isekai’s Slavery Problem appeared first on Anime Feminist.