Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru: Washio Sumi no Shou 1 - Tomodachi

Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru: Washio Sumi no Shou 1 - Tomodachi was released in 2017 as the first installment of a three-part film series serving as a prequel to the original 2014 television anime. Produced by Studio Gokumi, the project was developed to expand upon the backstory of the series' central conflict, focusing on the middle school years of Washio Sumi and her companions. The film adapts the light novel series of the same name, exploring the origins of the Hero system and the emotional toll exacted upon its young protagonists.

The film's visual direction reflects the established aesthetic of the franchise, emphasizing a contrast between the ordinary, peaceful lives of the students and the surreal, often haunting nature of their battles. The character designs, originally envisioned by the illustrator BUNBUN, were adapted for the screen to maintain a sense of continuity with the previous installments. Upon its release, the film was received as a poignant exploration of themes such as friendship and duty, garnering praise for its ability to deepen the lore of the series while maintaining a focused, character-driven narrative.