Umamusume: Pretty Derby - Beginning of a New Era

Umamusume: Pretty Derby - Beginning of a New Era (2026) Review

1. Introduction

Oh boy, when I first heard they were making a new Umamusume movie, "Beginning of a New Era," I was bouncing in my seat! The Pretty Derby franchise has always had a special place in my heart, with its unique blend of thrilling races, heartwarming friendships, and unforgettable songs. After the TV series and all the games, the idea of seeing these magnificent horse girls on the big screen with a brand-new story really piqued my interest. Was it going to be another heartwarming sprint to the finish, or stumble out of the gate? I strapped in with my popcorn, ready to find out if this new chapter truly lived up to its promising title.

2. Story Overview

"Beginning of a New Era" introduces us to Mirai, a spirited but slightly clumsy Umamusume with a heart full of dreams and legs that haven't quite found their rhythm yet. She’s a fresh face at Tracen Academy, arriving just as many of the legendary "First Generation" racers are winding down their careers. The movie really leans into the idea of legacy and finding your own path when the shadows of greatness loom large.

Mirai dreams of winning the "Starlight Cup," a prestigious new race designed to highlight emerging talent. Her journey isn't just about speed; it's about finding her own running style, connecting with her eccentric but dedicated trainer, and forming unexpected friendships—and rivalries—with her classmates. We see her struggle with self-doubt after early losses, learn the importance of teamwork during training camps, and ultimately, find her unique shine on the track. The plot flows pretty smoothly, focusing on Mirai's emotional growth as much as her physical training, making it easy to root for her every step of the way.

3. Main Characters & Performances

Mirai, our main protagonist, is absolutely charming. She's relatable in her earnestness and her moments of awkwardness, making her struggles feel genuinely impactful. You can feel her determination even when she's messing up, and her triumphant moments are incredibly satisfying because you've seen how hard she's worked. She's not a prodigy, which makes her journey feel more earned.

Then there’s Suzuka Sapphire, her main rival. She's cool, collected, and incredibly fast, but the movie cleverly peels back layers to show a more vulnerable, equally ambitious side beneath the tough exterior. The dynamic between Mirai and Suzuka is one of the film's highlights, showcasing how healthy competition can push both individuals to be better.

Supporting characters, like Mirai's slightly over-the-top but incredibly caring trainer, and her two best friends, provide plenty of comedic relief and emotional anchor points. While the focus is heavily on Mirai, the surrounding cast feels well-integrated, adding depth to the Tracen Academy environment. Even though we're talking about animated characters, their personalities shine through so brightly, making them feel real and impactful.

4. What Works Well

First off, the animation is utterly breathtaking. The race sequences are, without a doubt, the standout feature. The camera swoops and dives with the Umamusume, making every gallop, every turn, and every burst of speed feel incredibly dynamic and exhilarating. You’ll find yourself holding your breath and cheering aloud as they thunder down the final stretch! The character designs are vibrant and expressive, capturing every emotion perfectly.

The music, as always with Umamusume, is fantastic. The instrumental tracks during the races are epic and really pump up the tension, and the post-race "Live Show" is pure joy. Mirai's character song, which gets a spotlight moment, is catchy and perfectly encapsulates her journey. The film also does a wonderful job of balancing the intense racing with quieter, character-driven moments, giving you time to breathe and connect with the cast. The themes of friendship, perseverance, and daring to dream big are woven in beautifully, making it an incredibly uplifting experience.

5. What Could Be Improved

While I loved "Beginning of a New Era," it does tread some familiar ground. The "underdog rookie makes it big" storyline isn't exactly groundbreaking in sports anime. While Mirai is a lovely character, her arc follows a pretty predictable path, which means seasoned fans of the genre might anticipate certain plot points well in advance.

I also felt that some of the supporting Umamusume, while charming, didn't get as much screen time or individual development as I would have liked. With such a rich world and so many unique characters, it sometimes felt like there were missed opportunities to explore some of the other racers' backstories or motivations beyond their immediate connection to Mirai. A slightly longer runtime or more focused side plots could have enriched the overall experience even more.

6. Overall Entertainment Value

Despite a few predictable beats, "Umamusume: Pretty Derby - Beginning of a New Era" is an absolute joyride from start to finish. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you feeling energized and hopeful. Whether you're a long-time fan of the franchise who knows every Umamusume by name, or a newcomer just discovering the world of Pretty Derby, there's a lot to love here.

The blend of thrilling sports action, genuine character development, and infectious musical numbers creates a truly unique and engaging experience. It’s perfect for a family movie night, a feel-good watch with friends, or even just a solo escape when you need a dose of inspiration. The emotional beats land well, and the humor is genuinely funny, keeping the energy high throughout.

7. Final Verdict

"Umamusume: Pretty Derby - Beginning of a New Era" is a vibrant, exciting, and ultimately very sweet movie that captures the heart and soul of the franchise perfectly. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel in terms of storytelling, it delivers on its promise of introducing a compelling new character and setting the stage for future generations of Umamusume. The stunning animation and incredible music alone make it worth the price of admission, and Mirai's journey will undoubtedly leave you feeling inspired.

Definitely worth seeing! It’s a beautifully animated, heartwarming race to a satisfying finish that proves the Pretty Derby franchise still has plenty of winning laps left. Get ready to cheer!