The Forgers may be far from being the first family of anime, but they’re one of the most beloved in recent times. Where else can you find an unlikely combination of a spy, an assassin, a telepath, and a psychic coming together to pass off as a normal family? Enter the world of the anime/manga Spy X Family.

Tatsuya Endo’s action-comedy manga has been a hit in Shonen Jump+ since 2019. It’s already been adapted into a TV anime, with the second season concluding in December 2023. The Forger family’s escapades have delighted anime fans as they navigate their respective roles while keeping their true identities hidden from each other.

Now, the Forgers make their big-screen debut with Spy X Family Code: White, a full-length movie released in 2023. In Japan, it was a sensation, selling 866,436 tickets and earning 1.224 billion yen in just three days. Now, Filipino fans can experience the hype as the movie hits local cinemas.

Having watched the anime avidly and the movie just recently, I can confidently say that Spy X Family Code: White lives up to its box office success— and it’s worth every penny of admission

Spy x Family, as a whole, is a tale with a straightforward premise. Loid Forger, the head of the family, operates under the codename “Twilight” as a spy on a mission in the fictional country of Ostania. His wife, Yor Forger (also known as Yor Briar), is no ordinary matriarch—she’s a skilled assassin, aptly named the Thorn Princess. Their adopted daughter, Anya Forger, possesses telepathic abilities, allowing her to delve into minds. And then there’s Bond Forger, the family dog, who has the unique gift of foreseeing the future.

This unconventional family has come together out of necessity, each harboring a double life. They guard their secrets fiercely, fearing the consequences if their true identities were exposed. Interestingly, Anya and Bond share their psychic abilities, so they’re aware of each other’s hidden talents. Code: White chronicles yet another thrilling escapade for the Forgers as they gradually form genuine family bonds while simultaneously saving the day.

Spy X Family Code: White, like many anime theatrical releases, stands alone as a self-contained story. Newcomers need not be intimately familiar with the source material—the movie succinctly introduces the anime’s premise, ensuring a smooth viewing experience without drowning in exposition.

In the shadow of a potential replacement, Loid Forger embarks on an out-of-town excursion with his family. Their mission? To assist Anya, Loid’s daughter, with a school project that could significantly impact Operation Strix—a critical endeavor that might sway Loid’s superiors to retain him as an operative. However, fate intervenes, thrusting the Forger family into a web of events where their unique skills become essential to preventing a catastrophic war.

Despite my limited exposure to promotional materials for the movie, watching “Code: White” proved unexpectedly delightful. The premise of “Spy X Family” ensures that chaos and intrigue are never far behind the Forgers.

Anticipating a series of events showcasing Loid and Yor’s talents as a spy and assassin, respectively, I was not disappointed. Meanwhile, Anya, their telepathic daughter, operates from the sidelines, guarding her secret identity. And then there’s Bond, the family’s silent canine companion, who communicates without words, forming an unlikely duo with Anya.

The film balances seriousness, comedy, and heartfelt moments, all stemming from the quirks of the Forger family. Loid’s seasoned spy instincts often lead him to overthink, while Yor grapples with maintaining normalcy despite her assassin background. As for Anya? Well, she’s endearingly awkward, and Bond’s silence adds an intriguing layer to their teamwork.

Code: White proves a simple point – that family bonds and covert operations can coexist in the most unexpected ways.

Code: White is a visually stunning and seamless experience. While “Spy X Family” already dazzled as an anime series, the transition to the big screen necessitates an elevated quality, and the film delivers. From meticulously crafted backgrounds to fluid animation and vibrant visuals, the attention to detail shines through. Notably, a particular scene defies expectations—but we won’t talk about it further, so watch the film to uncover this delightful surprise!

What truly impresses me is how select side characters, familiar to those who followed the anime, manage to secure a place in the movie despite limited screen time. Fans of Yor’s overprotective younger brother, Yuri, and Twilight’s steadfast subordinate, Nightfall, will delight in their appearances. However, it’s essential to temper expectations; the true protagonists remain the Forger family.

The auditory experience is equally captivating. As expected, the voice cast from the TV anime reprises their roles, delivering entertainment in abundance. Fans will recognize Anya’s distinct speech pattern and Yor’s contrasting voice—alternating between awkwardness and combat readiness. Loid, the master spy, seamlessly oscillates between seriousness and normalcy. And let’s not forget the superbly composed music, perfectly attuned to the film’s various moods, including familiar cues from the anime.

I don’t want to say too much about Spy X Family Code: White for fear of messing up the viewing experience. Suffice it to say that this movie has earned its status as a smash hit for good reason. As an action-comedy, it balances laughter and heart-pounding action sequences to great success.

The Forger family holds the key to setting this film, and the series as a whole, apart. The dance between them as they navigate perilous situations, all while safeguarding their well-kept secrets from one another, is a treat to watch and radiates warmth and authenticity throughout the film.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, Spy X Family Code: White promises an enjoyable and highly entertaining experience. It’s equally delightful for solo viewers or those sharing the cinematic adventure with friends. And yes, even families can revel in the Forgers’ escapades.

Spy X Family Code: White is now showing across cinemas nationwide.