The film adaption of the hit anime Solo Leveling — subtitled -ReAwakening- made its limited cinematic debut on 6 December, 2024. Building on the immense popularity of the series, the movie is already making waves, boasting an impressive 96% "Popcornmeter" rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on over 100 verified user reviews.

Critics on the review aggregator, however, are less enthusiastic. IndieWire’s David Opie graded it a C+, commenting that it may feel too familiar for dedicated fans of the series (more on this later), while Avi Offer from NYC Movie Guru described it as "Exhausting, shallow, overlong, and tedious."

On IMDb, the film holds a respectable 8.5 rating, reflecting its solid reception among audiences. While not on par with all-time anime classics like Spirited Away, Grave of the Fireflies, or Your Name, Solo Leveling: -ReAwakening- is clearly resonating with anime fans.

Solo Leveling Recap meets sneak peek

Solo Leveling: -ReAwakening- serves as both a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a thrilling sneak peek into the anime’s future. The film recaps key moments from the first season while offering fans an exclusive glimpse of the first two episodes of the upcoming second season, Arise from the Shadow.

Fans can relive Sung Jinwoo's gripping transformation from an E-rank hunter, dubbed the “Weakest Hunter of All Mankind,” to one of the most formidable forces in existence.

In the story, Sung Jinwoo is granted a unique opportunity when he becomes the Player of the System, gaining the ability to grow in strength without limit. Set in a world threatened by monsters emerging from mysterious “gates,” hunters like Jinwoo risk everything to protect humanity. His rise from a weakling to a legendary figure drives the captivating narrative.

Perhaps more importantly for the franchise, the film will attract new fans who may not have had the time or awareness to watch the series when it first started streaming online. The sneak peak at the end is a nice tough for returning fans, ensuring that the film has something for everyone.

The legacy of Solo Leveling

Originally a South Korean web novel, Solo Leveling (also known as Only I Level Up) was penned by Chugong and first serialized in 2016. The story gained widespread acclaim, inspiring a webtoon adaptation illustrated by Jang Sung-rak (Dubu). Its serialized chapters were later compiled into 13 volumes, capturing the imagination of readers worldwide.

The anime adaptation, produced by A-1 Pictures, premiered earlier this year and quickly cemented the series’ status as a global hit. A second season, Arise from the Shadow, is slated to premiere in January 2025, ensuring fans have much to look forward to in the coming months.

Filipino fans can watch soon

For Filipino fans eager to experience the action on the big screen, Solo Leveling: -ReAwakening- will hit theaters on 11 December. Fans unable to catch the theatrical release can look forward to its arrival on Crunchyroll’s anime streaming platform early next year.

As Solo Leveling continues to make its more on the anime landscape, fans should keep an eye out for updates on the second season and additional content. Be sure to mark your calendars and immerse yourself in Sung Jinwoo’s epic journey!