Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dear Friend, the Franchise Finale, Gets a Main Trailer and October 16 Release

The official account for the Rascal Does Not Dream anime has released the main trailer for Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dear Friend, confirming that the franchise's final film opens in Japanese theaters on October 16, 2026.

The end of the Adolescence Syndrome saga

According to Anime News Network, A Dear Friend is the fourth and final film in the Rascal Does Not Dream franchise and adapts volumes 14 and 15 of Hajime Kamoshida's light novel series, bringing the long-running anime to a close. The light novels are published under KADOKAWA's Dengeki Bunko label, with illustrations by Keji Mizoguchi.

What the story covers

Per Anime News Network, the film follows Sakuta Azusagawa as he faces a reality where impossible dreams begin to manifest, forcing him to confront the truth about Miori Mito and Touko Kirishima in what is framed as his final case of Adolescence Syndrome. Mai Sakurajima remains at the center of the story alongside him.

Returning staff and cast

According to Crunchyroll and Anime News Network, director Soichi Masui returns to lead production at CloverWorks, with Masahiro Yokotani writing the script, Satomi Tamura handling character designs, and fox capture plan composing the music. The voice cast also returns, including Kaito Ishikawa as Sakuta Azusagawa and Asami Seto as Mai Sakurajima.

When to watch

The film's teaser first appeared at AnimeJapan in March 2026, and the main trailer is now online ahead of the October 16 theatrical premiere. A release outside Japan has not yet been announced.