That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the Movie: Tears of the Azure Sea Review

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the Movie: Tears of the Azure Sea is the kind of film that at first feels lighter, but eventually reveals itself as a side story with emotional depth and some unexpected romance. I am a big fan of the Great Rimuru, but this movie instead shifts its focus to Gobta, a supporting character mostly overlooked as comic relief, which means the movie already kicks off to a unique and strong start. How exciting! But does the movie get past its beach episode vibes, or does it stay as a fun filler arc? Let’s dive into it.

Tears of the Azue Sea is an original film that comes right after the events of Season 3. The first act of the movie begins the same way the trailer introduced it: vacation energy, resort scenery, swimwear, and a very star-studded entourage. What should have been a relaxing island trip gets turned upside down when the Tempest crew, Gobta in particular, gets dragged into trouble involving the underwater kingdom of Kaien, a girl named Yura, and a plot to awaken the Great Water Dragon. 

Right off the bat, the film has a refreshing and relaxing energy. I always feel that there is something oddly enjoyable about watching a cast of powerful characters just vibing and taking a break from their usual busy lives. There are elite Tempest fighters with their new clothes and tourist get-ups (someone commented Hakuro Jackson on YouTube on the trailer, and that hasn't left my mind since), Veldora and Milim playing around, and even Ramiris, Hinata, and Luminous enjoying drinks. But while they’re out having their fun, Gobta is the first to notice that someone is on their tail.  

The animation was beautifully executed and worthy of the big screen, with the landscape visibly vibrant and the movements much sharper and more fluid than in the last movie and the series. The pacing of the events kept me entertained, while the soundtrack did a pleasant job of keeping me locked in. Above all, I especially enjoyed watching the action scenes here, and how they perfectly highlight Gobta and Yura’s unlikely partnership and emotional connection.

Their scenes together end up being the strongest part of the movie, mainly because they don’t depend on Rimuru’s usual overpowering presence. Instead, it’s all about simple moments, their personalities, and the trust they build with each other throughout the movie. Seeing Gobta step up to protect Yura from assassins, as she slowly realizes there’s real sincerity behind his goofy attitude, adds a heartwarming touch to the story. By the end, they feel genuinely important to each other, and to the movie as a whole. 

You see, Gobta is just… ordinary. He doesn’t have any special skills except for his martial arts (and Ranga). He is an uncomplicated personality. This difference is what makes this movie unique–Gobta in the spotlight creates a more profound drama, suspense, and danger than how we see him in the original series. His point of view makes his choices and the movie’s storytelling more grounded.

Overall, his funny and awkward qualities become his strengths, something that pierces through Yura’s worldview. This dynamic, together with the entire cast’s subtle support,  is what makes Tears of the Azure Sea truly worth watching.

The only thing that ticked me off was Zodon, the antagonist of the movie. Other than my personal discomfort with this creepy character, I felt like something was missing in the overall execution of their evil grand scheme. He was there, but his actions felt a bit awkward and underdeveloped. Maybe he could’ve been a much more compelling villain if there had been a bit more buildup or sharper direction. Although it doesn't necessarily ruin the movie experience for me, since I still got to see my favorite characters shine.

There’s a development in the finale that I think was a brave character choice for this TenSura movie. Although I was surprised by it at first (I literally referenced an ATLA quote to Gobta in my head, IYKYK), it eventually sinks in as bittersweet and somewhat meaningful. As they say, “the greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” Again, it’s a great story for Gobta. 

Other things I enjoyed in the movie were the montages that happen often, the outfit changes, and the misadventures that naturally feel like a TenSura staple. The ending drawings, in particular, were adorable, making this vacation movie a bit more poignant than it initially let on. And after a conclusion like that, the story hits the feels all the more so. Meanwhile, Diablo’s subplot is a treat for light novel readers, which adds an extra layer of excitement for what’s to come in the upcoming arcs. 

All in all, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the Movie: Tears of the Azure Sea was a fun adventure to watch. I was honestly just expecting a fun side story with Rimuru and the gang; something light, maybe a bit fanservice-y, and not too heavy plotwise. And in a lot of ways, that’s exactly what it is. There’s enough charm and humor to make it worth watching, and it definitely has a lot of enjoyable moments, especially if you’re already attached to the characters. Most of all, Tears of the Azure Sea is more than just a filler vacation movie; it’s a film with a solid and entertaining story that gives our best boy Gobta some of his best moments in the series. 

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the Movie: Tears of the Azure Sea will be released theatrically in North America by Crunchyroll on May 1, 2026.

Photos via Sony, Rotten Tomatoes, and Isekai Channel YouTube
© Taiki Kawakami, Fuse, KODANSHA/ “Ten-Sura” Project

Anime Atelier received a screener of the film for review purposes.