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Plot summary & ending explained

My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising (2020) Plot Summary, Ending Explained & Timeline

My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising (2020) movie poster

My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising is a 2020 action and adventure film directed by Kenji Nagasaki, running 1 hour 44 minutes. This page retells the whole story in 612 words (about 3 minutes to read) and covers 15 key events in order, 3 characters, where and when it is set, 2 themes and the ending explained. Looking for the cast, ratings and where to stream it? See the movie page for My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising.

to read the plot summary
3 min
key events in the timeline
15
characters profiled
3
themes explained
2
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My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising (2020) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 44m
Director
Kenji Nagasaki
Original language
Japanese
No spoilers

What Is My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising About?

The premise of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising in 322 words, with nothing given away. The full story and the ending follow below.

In a world where society relies on extraordinary individuals to keep the peace, a serene coastal community becomes the backdrop for a test unlike any the heroes have faced before. The island’s winds carry whispers of looming danger, and the very air seems charged with the promise of conflict, setting a tone that balances the bright optimism of heroism with the gritty uncertainty of a looming threat.

When the elite trainees of U.A. High’s Class 1‑A are dispatched to the seaside town, they arrive with the weight of expectations and a deep bond forged through rigorous training. At the heart of the group is Izuku Midoriya, the earnest hero who now carries the legendary One For All, and his fiery counterpart Katsuki Bakugo, whose rivalry fuels both tension and growth. Alongside them, local siblings Mahoro and Katsuma Shimano become unexpected allies, offering a glimpse of civilian life that the students have rarely seen up close. The dynamic between the steadfast idealism of Midoriya, the raw ambition of Bakugo, and the earnest curiosity of the island’s youth creates a compelling mix of personalities eager to prove themselves.

The mission quickly reveals that a powerful new villain has set its sights on the town, a presence felt more in the uneasy silence of the streets than in any visible threat. This looming menace forces the young heroes to confront the limits of their abilities, testing their teamwork, resolve, and the very ideals that brought them to the profession. The atmosphere swells with anticipation, as the class must learn to synchronize their strengths while navigating unfamiliar terrain.

Against the backdrop of crashing waves and an unsettled sky, the story promises an exploration of courage, trust, and the evolution of heroism. The stakes feel personal and expansive, inviting the audience to wonder how these budding protectors will rise to meet a challenge that could redefine their understanding of what it truly means to be a hero.

Full plot

What Happens in My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising?

The complete story of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising, from the first scene to the last, in 612 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout.

Spoilers ahead

The League of Villains finds themselves on the run as a group of Heroes pursues them in a truck loaded with a life support capsule. When Endeavor arrives on the scene, he successfully destroys the vehicle, unveiling that the villains onboard are actually clones created by Twice. Amid the wreckage, a notable figure escapes from the capsule; this is Nine, a villain who had subjected himself to experiments conducted by Daruma Ujiko. Nine intends to regroup with his fellow villains to realize their ambition of establishing a society governed by individuals with powerful Quirks. Though Ujiko has granted Nine a copy of All For One’s Quirk, enabling him to acquire up to eight additional Quirks along with his inherent Weather Manipulation, he struggles with a terminal illness worsened by his modifications, requiring a special Cell Activation Quirk for a cure.

Meanwhile, U.A. High’s Class 1-A embarks on a journey to the distant Nabu Island for a safety work program. Here, Izuku Midoriya, the current bearer of One For All, encounters Mahoro Shimano and her younger brother Katsuma, who are both locals of the island. Despite initial animosity from Mahoro, Izuku forms a bond with them along with his rival Katsuki Bakugo. Katsuma aspires to be a hero, but his sister fears for his wellbeing and tries to discourage him. The siblings’ father faces an attack from Nine’s group, leading to the loss of his Quirk. However, it turns out that the Quirk is not compatible with Nine’s blood type, causing the villains to speculate that one of the children might possess the necessary blood type for the Quirk they desire.

As Nine’s gang launches an invasion on the island, cutting off all escape routes and communication, Class 1-A springs into action to thwart the villains and safeguard the island’s inhabitants. In a pivotal moment, Nine discovers that Katsuma possesses the Quirk he is after but faces opposition from Izuku. Despite Izuku’s and Bakugo’s combined efforts, they are overpowered by Nine’s extensive array of Quirks. Fortunately, Nine eventually has to withdraw due to the excessive use of his abilities, allowing Class 1-A to rescue Izuku, Bakugo, and the Shimano children. After regrouping, the class deduces Nine’s intentions concerning Katsuma when he uses his Quirk to heal both Izuku and Bakugo, leading Class 1-A to strategize and prepare for the villains’ return while they await reinforcements from other Heroes.

Upon evacuating the islanders to a nearby isle, the class manages to separate Nine from his henchmen, defeating each member successfully. Nonetheless, Nine manages to incapacitate the remaining students and gains the upper hand over Izuku and Bakugo by consuming Quirk-enhancing drugs, putting the island at risk of destruction. Realizing their dire situation, Izuku decides to transfer One For All to Bakugo, while he utilizes the residual energy left. Together, they eventually triumph over Nine, although it leaves One For All faded in the process.

As reinforcements from the mainland arrive, All Might revives an unconscious Bakugo and Izuku and notes that One For All still resides within Izuku since the transfer to Bakugo was interrupted. He speculates that the former wielders of One For All wish for Izuku to retain it. Meanwhile, Tomura Shigaraki, filled with spite, discovers and kills the weakened Nine, pledging to fulfill what he failed to accomplish earlier. With Nine’s gang taken into custody, Class 1-A contributes to the restoration of the island’s damage before heading home. In a heartwarming farewell, Izuku and Bakugo, who have forgotten the experience of wielding One For All, bid goodbye to Katsuma and Mahoro. Izuku reassures Katsuma that he, too, can become a hero, much like All Might did for him in the past.

Timeline

My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising Timeline: Every Key Event in Order

15 key events in the order they happen, from “Pursuit of the League of Villains” to “Heartfelt Farewell”. 11 events name a place, across 2 locations.

  1. 1

    Pursuit of the League of Villains

    The League of Villains finds themselves under intense pursuit by a group of Heroes in a truck equipped with a life support capsule. The tension escalates as they evade capture while aiming to complete their sinister plans.

  2. 2

    Endeavor's Intervention

    Endeavor arrives on the scene and successfully destroys the vehicle carrying the villains. This act reveals that the supposed villains onboard are clones created by Twice, heightening the stakes in the ongoing conflict.

  3. 3

    Nine's Escape

    Amid the wreckage, a significant figure emerges from the capsule: Nine. This villain, created through experimental modifications by Daruma Ujiko, is set on a path to unite with other villains to establish a Quirk-dominated society.

  4. 4

    U.A. High's Class 1-A Journey

    Meanwhile, U.A. High's Class 1-A embarks on a journey to Nabu Island for a safety work program. During this trip, Izuku Midoriya meets the local siblings, Mahoro and Katsuma Shimano, who impact his experience on the island.

    Where:Nabu Island

  5. 5

    Rising Tensions with the Shimanos

    Izuku forms a bond with the Shimano siblings, although Mahoro expresses initial hostility towards him. Katsuma dreams of becoming a hero, yet his sister's concerns for his safety create a conflict within the family.

    Where:Nabu Island

  6. 6

    The Villain Attack

    Tragedy strikes when Nine's group attacks the Shimano family, resulting in the father losing his Quirk. This incident raises the stakes as the villains suspect one of the children has the blood type needed for their nefarious plans.

    Where:Nabu Island

  7. 7

    Nine's Invasion

    As Nine's gang launches a full invasion on Nabu Island, they isolate the community from any escape routes and communication. Class 1-A takes a stand to protect the island's inhabitants from the villainous threat.

    Where:Nabu Island

  8. 8

    Katsuma's Secret

    During the confrontation, Nine discovers that Katsuma possesses the Quirk he desires. Despite Izuku's attempts to protect him, they find themselves in a fierce battle against the overwhelming powers of Nine.

    Where:Nabu Island

  9. 9

    Class 1-A's Strategy

    After regrouping post-battle, Class 1-A deduces that Nine intends to utilize Katsuma's Quirk for his goals. They begin strategizing for the next encounter with the villains while awaiting reinforcements.

    Where:Nabu Island

  10. 10

    Evacuation of Islanders

    Class 1-A successfully evacuates the islanders to a nearby isle, showcasing their leadership and resolve. They manage to separate Nine from his henchmen during this critical moment of chaos.

    Where:Nearby Isle

Show the other 5 events of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising
  1. 11

    Confrontation with Nine

    Despite separating Nine from his gang, he incapacitates the remaining students and gains an upper hand by consuming Quirk-enhancing drugs. An atmosphere of desperation envelops the heroes as they face potential destruction.

    Where:Nabu Island

  2. 12

    One For All Transfer

    Facing dire circumstances, Izuku decides to transfer One For All to Bakugo while utilizing the residual energy in a last-ditch effort. This bold move ultimately allows them to prevail against Nine, although it depletes One For All's strength.

    Where:Nabu Island

  3. 13

    Reinforcements Arrive

    Just as Class 1-A emerges from the confrontation, reinforcements from the mainland arrive, with All Might reviving Bakugo and Izuku. The former wielders of One For All seem to want Izuku to retain the Quirk despite the transfer being interrupted.

    Where:Nabu Island

  4. 14

    Final Fate of Nine

    In a dark turn of events, Tomura Shigaraki kills the weakened Nine, vowing to achieve what Nine could not. This moment emphasizes the threat posed by the League of Villains and sets the tone for future conflicts.

  5. 15

    Heartfelt Farewell

    With Nine's gang captured and the island restored, Class 1-A bids farewell to Katsuma and Mahoro. Izuku reassures Katsuma of his potential to be a hero, mirroring All Might's encouragement to him in the past.

    Where:Nabu Island

Characters

Who Are the Main Characters in My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising?

3 characters, among them Izuku Midoriya (Luci Christian), Katsuki Bakugo (Johnny Yong Bosch) and Nine (Clifford Chapin): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.

  • Luci Christian as Izuku Midoriya (Luci Christian) in My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising

    Izuku Midoriya (Luci Christian)

    Played by Luci Christian

    Izuku Midoriya, known for his unwavering determination and heroic spirit, is the current holder of the powerful Quirk, One For All. Throughout the movie, he displays immense courage as he leads his classmates in confronting the threats posed by Nine and his gang. His growth illustrates a journey from aspiring hero to a figure of hope for those around him.

    • 🦸‍♂️ Hero
    • 💪 Determination
    • 🌟 Growth
  • Johnny Yong Bosch as Katsuki Bakugo (Johnny Yong Bosch) in My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising

    Katsuki Bakugo (Johnny Yong Bosch)

    Played by Johnny Yong Bosch

    Katsuki Bakugo is a fierce and competitive student who possesses the explosive Quirk, Explosion. Though initially abrasive and prideful, his character evolves through his interactions with Izuku and the challenges they face together, showcasing his bravery and strategic thinking in battle. He also learns the value of teamwork, particularly in critical moments.

    • 🔥 Explosive
    • 💥 Rivalry
    • ⚔️ Strategy
  • N(

    Nine (Clifford Chapin)

    Played by Clifford Chapin

    Nine emerges as a complex antagonist, endowed with multiple Quirks and driven by a turbulent desire to establish a new world order based on power. Despite his formidable abilities, he grapples with personal vulnerabilities, including a terminal illness that complicates his villainous ambitions. His character serves as a reflection of the darker side of the pursuit for power.

    • 🦹‍♂️ Villain
    • ⚡ Power
    • 💔 Vulnerability
Setting

Where and When Is My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising Set?

My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising is set in Nabu Island. Here is why the place matters to the story.

When

The events occur in a contemporary setting, reflective of modern society where superheroes and villains coexist. The existence of Quirks—a trait that grants individuals special abilities—permeates everyday life, creating a dynamic conflict between those who use their powers for good and those who exploit them for nefarious purposes.

Where

Nabu Island

Nabu Island is a picturesque location where the story unfolds, known for its serene landscapes and close-knit community. It serves as the backdrop for Class 1-A's safety work program, highlighting the peaceful yet vulnerable nature of island life amidst the chaos introduced by the villains. The island's residents, including Mahoro and Katsuma, seek to maintain their way of life against the threats posed by powerful adversaries.

  • 🏝️ Island
  • 🌊 Coastal
  • 🏖️ Local
Themes

What Are the Themes of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising?

2 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Heroism and Identity.

  1. 01

    Heroism

    Heroism is a central theme, explored through the actions and growth of Class 1-A as they confront formidable villains to protect innocent lives. The character development of Izuku and Katsuki illustrates the values of courage and teamwork as they strive to embody the ideals of true heroes. Their journey emphasizes the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

  2. 02

    Identity

    The theme of identity is present in the conflicts faced by characters like Nine, who struggle with their Quirks and what it means to possess extraordinary powers. The film touches on the implications of personal choices and the ethical dilemmas tied to one's abilities, raising questions about destiny and self-acceptance among characters in pursuit of their goals.

Ending explained

How Does My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising End?

The last act of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising and what it means, in 236 words. The ending lands as happy. Big spoilers: read the plot summary first if you have not seen it.

The final act, in full

In the climax of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising, Izuku Midoriya faces a seemingly unstoppable villain, Nine, who has the ability to steal and hold multiple quirks but is limited by the damage overusing them causes. Despite fighting with all his might, even using his full strength, Izuku and his friends find their powers insufficient to defeat Nine. Recognizing the threat to everyone on the island and the children he’s sworn to protect, Izuku makes a selfless decision: he chooses to transfer his powerful quirk, One For All, to Katsuma, one of the children, knowing that this will cause him to lose his own abilities forever. This act of sacrifice allows Katsuma to awaken his own potential and, combined with the strength of the others, they ultimately defeat Nine. After the battle, Izuku’s quirk disappears, and he returns to being an ordinary person, leaving him seemingly powerless. However, when All Might arrives, he finds that One For All still resides in Izuku’s body, revealing that Izuku’s true strength was not his quirk but his unwavering spirit and heroic humanity. This act of sacrifice exemplifies what truly makes a hero—not just powers, but the compassion, humility, and willingness to risk everything to protect others. The film underscores that Izuku’s inner qualities—his passion, humility, and heroism—are what make him the greatest hero, rather than just his quirks, emphasizing that anyone can be a hero through kindness and courage.

Tone & mood

What Kind of Film Is My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising?

Hopeful in tone, with fast pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.

Tone
Hopeful
Pacing
Fast
Story
Moderate
Intensity
High
Ending
Happy

A fast-paced, high-stakes action film fueled by heroic determination and intense battles, ultimately delivering a hopeful and uplifting story of teamwork and self-sacrifice.

  • action-packed
  • hopeful
  • intense
  • heroic
  • uplifting
  • determined
  • heroes vs villains
  • overcoming challenges
  • teamwork
  • sacrifice

Content notes: intense superpowered violence, child endangerment.

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FAQ

My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising Plot Questions

6 quick answers about My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising, taken from the plot summary, ending explained, character guide and setting on this page and the film’s credits.

What is My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising about?

In a world where society relies on extraordinary individuals to keep the peace, a serene coastal community becomes the backdrop for a test unlike any the heroes have faced before.

Read the full plot summary

What happens at the end of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising?

In the climax of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising, Izuku Midoriya faces a seemingly unstoppable villain, Nine, who has the ability to steal and hold multiple quirks but is limited by the damage overusing them causes.

The ending explained

When and where does My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising take place?

My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising is set in Nabu Island. The events occur in a contemporary setting, reflective of modern society where superheroes and villains coexist.

The setting explained

Who are the main characters in My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising?

The story follows Izuku Midoriya (Luci Christian) (played by Luci Christian), Katsuki Bakugo (Johnny Yong Bosch) (played by Johnny Yong Bosch) and Nine (Clifford Chapin) (played by Clifford Chapin).

All the characters

What are the main themes of My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising?

The summary picks out 2 themes: Heroism and Identity.

The themes explained

Who directed My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising?

My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising (2020) was directed by Kenji Nagasaki and runs 1 hour 44 minutes.

Kenji Nagasaki’s films

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