Anime fans across Liverpool are in for a treat as the much-loved Plaza Community Cinema prepares to host its first-ever Anime Klash — an action-packed, all-day celebration of Japanese animation featuring four incredible films on the big screen!
Taking place on Saturday 14th November 2026, the special event will bring together anime lovers from across Merseyside for a full day of spectacular animation, futuristic adventures, supernatural thrills and unforgettable storytelling. And with an all-day pass costing just £20 for all four screenings, it’s a fantastic opportunity to experience some of anime’s most celebrated titles in a proper cinema setting.
From the beautiful romance of Your Name to the cyberpunk chaos of Cyber City Oedo 808, the gothic fantasy of Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust and the explosive action of Bubblegum Crisis, there’s something for every anime enthusiast. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or someone looking to discover the magic of Japanese animation for the first time, Anime Klash promises to be a brilliant addition to Liverpool’s cultural calendar.
FOUR INCREDIBLE ANIME FILMS — ONE EPIC DAY!
The Plaza has put together an exciting programme featuring four very different anime experiences, taking audiences on a journey through romance, science fiction, horror and high-octane action. Here’s what’s coming to the big screen….
11.40AM — YOUR NAME (12A)
The day begins with one of the most beloved anime films of modern times. Directed by Makoto Shinkai, Your Name is a visually breathtaking romantic fantasy that follows two teenagers, Mitsuha and Taki, whose lives become mysteriously connected despite living in completely different parts of Japan.
As they begin inexplicably swapping bodies, the pair develop a remarkable connection that transcends distance, time and their understanding of reality. What starts as a charming and often hilarious story gradually becomes something much more emotional and extraordinary. With stunning animation, a beautiful soundtrack and a storyline that has captivated audiences around the world, Your Name is a wonderful way to kick off the festival.
2.30PM — CYBER CITY OEDO 808 (15)
Next up, things take a seriously futuristic turn! Directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri, Cyber City Oedo 808 is a cult cyberpunk anime set in the year 2808, where technology, crime and danger collide in a sprawling futuristic metropolis. The story follows three convicted criminals who are offered the chance to reduce their prison sentences by working as cyber police officers, tackling some of the city’s most dangerous threats.
Packed with stylish animation, intense action, futuristic technology and a wonderfully atmospheric cyberpunk aesthetic, this is a classic of the genre. For fans of dystopian science fiction and retro anime, seeing Cyber City Oedo 808 on the big screen should be a real highlight.
5.30PM — VAMPIRE HUNTER D: BLOODLUST (15)
As the evening approaches, the festival takes a darker turn with the spectacular gothic fantasy Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust. Also directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri, this atmospheric anime follows D, a mysterious half-human, half-vampire hunter travelling through a haunting post-apocalyptic world.
When a wealthy family hires him to rescue a young woman who has been taken by a powerful vampire, D embarks on a dangerous mission filled with supernatural creatures, terrifying enemies and unexpected revelations. Renowned for its extraordinary artwork, gothic atmosphere and beautifully animated action sequences, Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust is a feast for the eyes. Its combination of horror, fantasy, romance and science fiction makes it a truly distinctive anime experience.
8PM — BUBBLEGUM CRISIS (12A)
The festival concludes with a blast of retro futuristic action as Bubblegum Crisis brings the day to an explosive finale. Set in MegaTokyo in 2033, this cult cyberpunk anime transports viewers to a futuristic world of advanced technology, powerful corporations and dangerous artificial beings.
At the centre of the action are the Knight Sabers, a group of women who use sophisticated powered armour to battle deadly threats and protect the city. With its distinctive 1980s aesthetic, futuristic battles, memorable characters and energetic soundtrack, Bubblegum Crisis has earned a devoted following among anime fans. It’s a fittingly action-packed way to bring Liverpool’s first Anime Klash to a close!
A BIG DAY FOR ANIME FANS IN LIVERPOOL!
Organiser Phillip Larner from Empire Sector said: “We’re so excited to be hosting Liverpool’s first ever anime film festival! Anime has grown from a niche interest into a global cultural phenomenon, with Japanese animation attracting audiences of all ages and inspiring everything from fashion and music to video games and contemporary art. Liverpool has its own enthusiastic community of anime, manga, gaming and Japanese pop-culture fans and we can’t wait to welcome everyone!”
With four very different titles included in the programme, Anime Klash offers a chance to discover new favourites, revisit much-loved classics and enjoy a full day immersed in anime culture. For those who grew up watching classic Japanese animation, it’s also a welcome opportunity to experience some nostalgic favourites in a completely different setting. Individual screenings are also available for £7 each, or a full day pass for just £20.
Anime Klash / Saturday 14th November 2026, 11am-8pm / The Plaza Cinema, 13 Crosby Road North, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 0LD
Because two of the films are rated 15, anyone attending the full-day event must be aged 15 or over. Younger viewers can attend the 12A screenings subject to the usual age restrictions.
