Uma Musume: Pretty Derby – Beginning of a New Era Anime Movie
Uma Musume: Pretty Derby – Beginning of a New Era (Anime Movie)
Genre: Sports / Drama
Japanese Title: ウマ娘 プリティーダービー 新時代の扉 (Umamusume Puritī Dābī Shinjidai no Tobira)
Year of Release: 2024
Origin: Japan
Runtime: 1 hour and 48 minutes
Director: Ken Yamamoto
Production: Cygames Pictures
TV: Umamusume: Cinderella Gray Anime Series 2025 (23 episodes), Uma Musume: Pretty Derby Anime Series 2018 – 2023 (39 episodes & 3 OVAs)
Manga: Umamusume: Cinderella Gray Manga 2020 – 2025 (23 volumes)
Video Games: Umamusume Pretty Derby Video Game (2021)
Plot Summary
Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Beginning of a New Era focuses on the journey of Jungle Pocket, an energetic and spirited young horse girl brimming with ambition. Her aspiration to become the fastest Umamusume is ignited after she witnesses the breathtaking and awe-inspiring race performance of Fuji Kiseki. Deeply inspired by this spectacle, Jungle Pocket makes the momentous decision to enroll at Tracen Academy, a prestigious institution dedicated to training aspiring horse girls. There, she embarks on rigorous training under the watchful guidance of the veteran Trainer Tanabe. Throughout her arduous journey, Jungle Pocket encounters a series of significant challenges and formidable rivals, most notably the exceptionally skilled Agnes Tachyon, as she relentlessly strives to achieve her dreams and prove her mettle in the demanding world of competitive racing.
Key Plot Points
- Jungle Pocket is utterly captivated by Fuji Kiseki’s electrifying performance, a moment that serves as the catalyst for her decision to pursue a career in horse racing.
- She diligently trains at Tracen Academy, setting her sights on dominating the prestigious Triple Crown series, a testament to her ambition.
- Jungle Pocket engages in fierce competitions against a cast of talented rivals, including the scientifically-minded Agnes Tachyon, the dedicated Dantsu Flame, and the uniquely motivated Manhattan Cafe.
- The film explores universal themes of intense rivalry, the pervasive nature of self-doubt, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the world of sports.
Main Characters
- Jungle Pocket: The determined protagonist, a horse girl driven by the singular aim of becoming the fastest Umamusume. Her journey is one of passion, hard work, and overcoming obstacles.
- Agnes Tachyon: A highly skilled rival who approaches racing with a unique, scientific methodology. She often serves as a significant foil to Jungle Pocket, pushing her to innovate and improve.
- Dantsu Flame: A dedicated competitor who trains alongside Jungle Pocket, often sharing the same training grounds and facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of camaraderie amidst the competition.
- Manhattan Cafe: Another notable rival whose motivations for racing are deeply personal and unique, adding a layer of complexity to the competitive landscape.
- Trainer Tanabe: The experienced and wise veteran trainer who mentors Jungle Pocket. He provides essential guidance, wisdom, and support throughout her challenging journey.
Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Beginning of a New Era not only delivers exhilarating and intense racing sequences but also delves deeply into the emotional struggles, personal growth, and unwavering determination of its characters, making it a compelling and emotionally resonant addition to the Umamusume franchise.
