My Hero Academia [Season 8]

Alright, let’s dive into the final season of My Hero Academia. First off, I need to set the scene for anyone who hasn’t been following along. Season 8, also known as the Final Season, wraps up the epic journey of Izuku Midoriya and his friends. Produced by Bones Film and directed by Kenji Nagasaki and Naomi Nakayama, it’s the culmination of years of storytelling. The season premiered in October 2025 and concluded in December, with a total of 11 episodes.

Now, let’s talk about the fan reactions. From what I’ve seen, the response is a mix of absolute adoration and some criticism. Let’s start with the positives because there’s a lot to love here. Many fans are calling this season a masterpiece, especially the later episodes. One user mentioned getting chills from start to finish, and another said it was everything they could have asked for and more. The animation quality is consistently praised—Bones really outdid themselves with the fight scenes and emotional moments.

The use of the iconic “You Say Run” theme song in the final battle was a huge highlight for fans. Multiple comments gushed about how hearing it one last time gave them goosebumps and even brought tears to their eyes. It’s a nostalgic callback that ties the entire series together, and it seems to have hit the right note for most viewers.

The emotional depth of the season is another big win. Fans loved seeing Deku’s growth and his unwavering kindness, even in the face of overwhelming odds. The final battle against All For One and Shigaraki was described as epic and satisfying, with many praising the way the characters came together to support Deku. The moment where All Might acknowledges Deku as his “greatest hero” was particularly moving for many.

However, not everyone was on board. Some fans felt that the final arc was unoriginal, comparing it to a “Walmart version of Avengers Endgame.” There were also complaints about the handling of the villains—specifically, that the author didn’t seem to know who the final villain should be, leading to a messy conclusion. A few critics mentioned that the power of friendship trope felt overused, though others argued that it’s a staple of shonen and should be enjoyed for what it is.

Another point of contention was the pacing. Some fans felt that the season dragged on, with the final battle stretching out longer than necessary. There were also mixed feelings about the epilogue, with some wanting more closure for certain characters.

But let’s not forget the impact this series has had. Many fans expressed gratitude for being able to watch it in real-time, calling it a “landmark anime” and a “generation-defining show.” They believe future viewers will look back and wish they could have experienced the hype firsthand.

In terms of technical aspects, the animation was top-notch. Bones has always been known for their fluid action sequences, and Season 8 is no exception. The fight scenes were dynamic and visually stunning, with each character’s quirk being showcased in creative ways. The voice acting was also praised, with many noting the emotional delivery that brought the characters to life.

The music deserves a special mention. Beyond “You Say Run,” the soundtrack was carefully crafted to enhance the mood of each scene. Whether it was a tense battle or a heartfelt moment, the music added depth and emotion that resonated with viewers.

Now, let’s address the criticism. The comparison to Avengers Endgame might stem from the large-scale battle and the gathering of heroes to fight a common enemy. While it’s true that both have similar elements, My Hero Academia puts its own spin on it by focusing on the personal growth of its characters. The power of friendship trope, while overused in some contexts, works here because it’s been a core theme of the series from the beginning. Deku’s journey is about learning to rely on others, and the final battle is the ultimate payoff for that.

As for the villains, some fans felt that Shigaraki’s arc was rushed or underdeveloped. However, others appreciated the complexity of his character and the tragic elements of his backstory. The final confrontation between Deku and Shigaraki was emotional, with Deku showing sympathy even in victory—a true reflection of his heroism.

In conclusion, My Hero Academia Season 8 is a bittersweet end to a beloved series. It has its flaws, but the emotional resonance, stunning animation, and satisfying character arcs make it a worthy finale. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, there’s something to appreciate here. The series leaves us with a message of hope, friendship, and the idea that anyone can be a hero—even if they don’t have a quirk.

So, if you’re looking for a show that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer, My Hero Academia Season 8 is definitely worth watching. It’s a fitting end to a journey that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. Plus Ultra!