Let’s start this review with a little test to see if you like this movie or not. Does the idea of an extended sequence about a little girl trying so hard not to poop — to the point where she starts having surreal hallucinations — sound like the height of comedy? If so, you’ve found the movie for you.
Like many anime adaptations of popular ongoing series, SPY×FAMILY Code: White is an original story not found in the manga. The downside is that the film, by its nature, cannot impact the overall SPY×FAMILY story. No matter what happens in the film, the status quo must be maintained until the end credits roll. Worse still, the film’s overall plot has very few twists, and the one-off bad guy feels like he was copied straight from the forgettable movie villain handbook. That said, while it’s hard to feel stressed while watching the movie, that doesn’t mean it’s not an enjoyable ride.
The movie is very much written for you to watch and feel. understand it even if you’ve never heard of SPY×FAMILY. Anya is her typical self — that is, the perfect interpretation of a child who can read other people’s minds but has trouble understanding what she finds there. On the other hand, Yor fully displays his contrasting personality, being both the most innocent member of the family and the meanest. Meanwhile, Loid continues to struggle with the fact that he has grown to love his family (even if he doesn’t realize it) and doesn’t want to give it up—even for the sake of duty.
The movie is filled with cute moments, funny misunderstandings, and all kinds of crazy coincidences. There are also many touching scenes as the family overcomes personal difficulties and grows closer. And as always, there’s the message that communication is important: talking out your problems and respecting your loved ones’ feelings is the best way to move forward.
But where SPY×FAMILY Code: White shines is in the action scenes. Studio Wit channels their experience with Attack on Titan diligently in this film—giving Yor one of the best and most beautifully choreographed fight scenes I’ve seen in a long time. Honestly, it might be worth the price of admission. Likewise, Anya’s hallucinations, which cause the film to shift to a completely different animation style, are a visual highlight. And musically, we have a new standout song from Official HiGE DANdism called “SOULSOUP” that further solidifies that SPY×FAMILY feeling.
Overall, SPY×FAMILY Code: White is a fun if forgettable film. While it has some solid comedy, heartfelt moments, and great action, the lack of real elements or impact to the overall SPY×FAMILY story holds it back. However, if you love SPY×FAMILY and want more, you will find what you want here. And if you want to introduce someone to this series without trying to force them to watch the entire movie, this movie wouldn’t be a bad start.