Some of the NEW Shows Coming in Fall 2024
Hey anime fans! Fall 2024 is right around the corner, with the new season starting in just 2 weeks and it’s bringing a lineup of shows that are sure to keep you glued to your screens. Filled to the brim with remakes, squils, and returns let's instead look at some of the NEW releases. From eerie horror to heartfelt romance, here’s a rundown of some of the most exciting anime dropping this season:
Uzumaki
First up, horror aficionados, get ready for the highly anticipated adaptation of Junji Ito’s classic manga, Uzumaki. This series dives into the spine-chilling world of a small town plagued by spirals that drive its residents to madness. Known for its creepy and unsettling atmosphere, Uzumaki promises to deliver a visually striking and eerie experience that fans of horror won’t want to miss.
Ao no Hako
Moving on to something a bit more mysterious, Ao no Hako is a new entry that’s caught the eye of many. The show revolves around a group of high school students who uncover dark secrets linked to a mysterious blue box. With its intriguing premise and promise of suspense, Ao no Hako is set to be a thrilling watch this fall.
Ao no Miburo
If you’re into action and fantasy, don’t miss Ao no Miburo. This anime features a world where ancient powers and modern conflicts collide. It follows a group of heroes battling against dark forces while uncovering secrets about their own abilities. Expect epic battles, intricate world-building, and a story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
Mecha Ude
Last but definitely not least, Mecha Ude brings a unique twist to the mecha genre. Set in a future where people can enhance their bodies with robotic limbs, the series follows a young mechanic who uncovers a conspiracy involving these enhancements. With its blend of futuristic tech and gripping storyline, "Mecha Ude" is sure to satisfy fans of mecha and sci-fi alike.
So there you have it! Fall 2024 is set to offer a fantastic mix of horror, romance, mystery, and action. Make sure to mark your calendars and get ready for an exciting season of anime.
Review: Spice and Wolf Remake.
Spice and Wolf is an anime that stands out in a crowded field with its blend of economic intrigue and charming light hearted romance. Set in a medieval world where trade and travel are central, the show follows the adventures of Kraft Lawrence, a traveling merchant, and Holo, a wolf deity with a penchant for mischief and sharp intellect.
From the get-go, Spice and Wolf captures your attention with its unique premise. Lawrence is a merchant who’s always looking for ways to increase his profit margins, and his journey takes a turn when he encounters Holo in the form of a wolf with a human-like demeanor. Holo, who claims to be the harvest goddess of the region, decides to join Lawrence on his travels, both to see the world and to find her way back to her homeland. Sounds great, it's actually quite slow to get going. To this end I can understand why some preferred the original release over this remake. However for me the first one was just as hard to get into, I've only seen the first two episodes of the original release. With this new release I got 3 in, took a break and returned later to continue watching.
One of the standout aspects of Spice and Wolf is its focus on economics. While that might not sound like the most thrilling subject, the show manages to make trade and market dynamics incredibly engaging. At one point they simulate a stock market in very easy to understand terms, as well as demonstrating it's downfalls. Lawrence’s negotiations and the strategic elements of his business dealings are portrayed with a level of detail that adds a layer of depth to the narrative. It’s a refreshing change from the usual action-packed anime, offering instead a cerebral look at commerce and trade. The trade off is Lawrence is the star, and only real needed element for this story. Holo has to insert herself with some odd quirk or made up problem that only she could solve.
This makes the heart of the show the relationship between Lawrence and Holo. Their interactions are a delightful mix of humor, banter, and genuine affection. Holo, with her dual nature as a deity and a playful trickster, provides a lot of the show’s charm. Without her it would drag, hard, even if she's really not needed for Lawrence dealings. Her sharp wit and occasional arrogance make for some amusing moments, and her evolving relationship with Lawrence is handled with nuance and depth. The chemistry between the two characters is palpable, and watching their dynamic grow over the course of the series is both heartwarming and engaging.
Visually, Spice and Wolf has a distinct and appealing style. Fans of the original don't seem to be a fan of the new look but personally I prefer it. The animation is smooth, and the character designs are both attractive and fitting for the setting. The rural, medieval backdrop is richly depicted, adding to the show’s immersive atmosphere. The warm color palette and detailed backgrounds help bring the world to life, making the setting feel vibrant and lived-in.
The biggest thing to note is that the pacing of Spice and Wolf can be a bit slow at times. The focus on dialogue and economic strategies means that action scenes are few and far between. However, this deliberate pace allows for more character development and deeper storytelling, which is a plus if you’re into character-driven narratives.
In conclusion, Spice and Wolf is a refreshing anime that combines clever economic strategies with a charming romance. It’s a unique experience that stands out for its focus on trade, its well-developed characters, and its engaging dialogue. If you’re looking for something different from the typical anime fare, this series is definitely worth a watch. The blend of intellect and heart makes it a memorable journey through a beautifully crafted world.
Anime You Probably Never Heard Of
Anime fans often flock to popular series like Naruto, Dragon Ball or more recently Jujutsu Kaisen, but there are some long-running gems out there that fly under the radar. Let’s dive into a few lesser-known, yet fascinating anime that have stood the test of time.
1. Sazae-san
Starting in 1969, "Sazae-san" is Japan's longest-running animated TV show, and according to Guinness Book - the world. Despite this somehow no one outside of Japan seems to know it. This slice-of-life series follows Sazae Fuguta, a cheerful housewife navigating everyday life with her quirky family. Its simplicity and focus on mundane life resonate deeply with Japanese audiences, making it a beloved staple on TV. Even though it's not widely known globally, "Sazae-san" has become a cultural icon in Japan, reflecting the country's evolving social norms over the decades.
2. Chibi Maruko-chan
Chibi Maruko-chan debuted in 1995 and brings a similar vibe to Sazae-san but with a focus on childhood. The show revolves around Maruko, a young girl whose humorous and often relatable adventures provide a window into the daily life of a Japanese elementary school student. With its charming characters and nostalgic tone, this series has managed to captivate audiences for years, making it a comforting favorite for many.
4. Crayon Shin-chan
Perhaps the most recognizable on this list, for all the wrong reasons. Crayon Shin-chan has been delighting audiences since 1992 with its irreverent humor and the antics of a precocious five-year-old named Shin-chan. If you're in America you may have a bit of an odd experience with this show. To start, this show is family friendly, and the English dub is, well, not. But other major differences, Shin Chan rarely stops in Japan. It's a show you can go home and just count on watching. It also gets a new movie every year, with 32 movies to date.
These long-running anime may not be as well-known as some of their counterparts, but they each offer unique glimpses into different aspects of Japanese life and culture. If you’re looking to broaden your anime horizons, give these gems a watch. It will definitely give you a better glimpse into life and the culture of Japan than your average anime. They might just become your new favorites!
Why Doesn't Summer Have Good Anime?
Ever notice how the anime lineup seems to hit its peak during the spring and fall seasons, while summer and winter sometimes feel like they’re lacking in exciting new shows? Let’s take a look into why that might be the case.
First off, spring and fall are known for their strong anime debuts. Why? Well, these seasons align with the start of Japan’s academic year and fiscal year, respectively. Spring kicks off in April and marks the start of the school year, which means anime studios are eager to debut new shows to capture the attention of students who are just settling in. They're likely to be home studying instead of out doing things and when they do leave the house to go to school they'll talk to their friends about what they watched. Similarly, fall, starting in October, coincides with the start of the fiscal year for many companies, making it a prime time for fresh content to get funding.
On the other hand, summer and winter often see fewer new shows making a splash. During summer, many anime studios are wrapping up projects and gearing up for the big releases of the upcoming fall season. Meanwhile summer brings vacations for everyone across Japan so no one would be home to watch anyway. It’s a bit of a breather before the rush of new content. Winter can be similar—it's a time when studios are regrouping and preparing for the big spring debuts while taking time off for the winter and new year holiday gaps. Despite the cost of holidays in this time frame, you are more likely to see a big release in winter trying to take advantage of the cold keeping people in doors. This means the summer sun is one of the main causes for it consistently being the weakest anime season of the year
That said, summer and winter aren’t without their gems. While they might not have as many high-profile releases, you'll find if a hit anime feels it's going to have a weak season they'll throw it in during the summer or winter where it's previous popularity might help boost its position on the charts. These seasons also tend to surprise you with hidden treasures and unique shows that might not fit the usual mold of spring and fall and you may not have watched if the heavy hitters were airing. Frequently those hidden gems will then change to a Spring or Fall releade if there's a season 2. Plus, with fewer new releases, there’s more room to catch up on shows you might have missed earlier in the year.
So, while spring and fall might be the heavy-hitters for anime seasons, there’s always something worth checking out year-round. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might just find a new favorite in the off-seasons too!
Review: The Elusive Samurai
The Elusive Samurai (Japanese: Nigejōzu no Wakagimi) is a pretty fun watch if you're into historical settings with a comedic twist. It follows a young samurai who’s got some serious skill when it comes to dodging trouble—literally. The show mixes action with humor and has a unique take on the samurai genre. The animation is solid, the design is impressive and the characters are lively and engaging. If you enjoy a good blend of historical drama and comedy, this one's worth checking out.
So, the story kicks off during Japan’s Kamakura period, and our main guy is Hojo Tokiyuki, a young prince who’s pretty much thrown into the deep end after being raised poorly - on purpose. After his clan falls from power, Tokiyuki is left on the run. But here’s the twist: he’s not your typical samurai hero. Instead of being a fierce warrior, he’s runner. That's it, having skirted all lessons in life, he's only good at running.
Along his journey for revenge, he bumps into historical figures and gets caught up in historical events, which adds a cool layer of authenticity to the show.
On the visual front, The Elusive Samurai looks great. The art style blends traditional samurai aesthetics with a modern vibe, giving it a fresh look. The character designs are detailed and period-appropriate, surprising for the difficulty in animation but it helps immerse you in the historical setting.
Action scenes are a highlight too. The choreography is smooth and dynamic, making the battles and chase sequences exciting to watch. Plus, the way the anime handles humor alongside serious moments gives it a bit of a dragon ball feel. For a show billed as a comedy it was a bit of a surprise though not an unwelcome one.
Overall, The Elusive Samurai is a fun and engaging watch. It’s got a unique take on the samurai genre, with a main character who’s more of a strategic thinker than a traditional warrior. The blend of historical context, character development, and stylish animation makes it a standout series. If you’re into historical dramas with a bit of humor and a lot of heart, this anime is definitely worth checking out.
Review: Kengan Ashura
Kengan Ashura is a solid watch if you're into intense martial arts battles and a good character development. The series dives into a world where corporate CEOs settle disputes through brutal, high-stakes underground fighting tournaments. If you're into epic showdowns and seeing characters unleash some seriously crazy moves, this anime delivers while also giving history lessons on some real life martial arts.
The fights are brutal and well-choreographed, making for some pretty exhilarating moments. However, the animation style might not be for everyone. It is CG and has a unique look that can be a bit jarring compared to more traditional anime styles. That said, the animation style has its ups and downs. It has a unique look that can feel a bit rough around the edges compared to more polished anime but it can also add to the grit of its themes. It's then mixed with a separate art style for memories and backstory so of you're someone who gets bothered by less traditional animation, this might be a turn-off.
Also, it's definitely one of those shows that's better binged rather than watching week by week or even season by season. The story and fights flow much smoother when you watch it all at once rather than in chunks. It flows better that way and keeps the momentum going. The series covers a single tournament so stopping 1/3rd of the way in is a real tension killer.
Adapted from the manga of the same name, this story shines brightest in its characters. The stories main character and narrator is Kazuo Yamashita but mostly focuses on Ohma Tokita, a fierce and skilled fighter who enters these underground battles with hopes of proving himself and uncovering his past. As they meet new characters along this journey, each is fully fleshed out. It doesn't matter if you're going to know this guy for only 5 minutes you're going to get his life story making those 5 minutes meaningful.
If you're familiar with a similar show, Baki, you'll likely appreciate Kengan Ashura. They share a similar vibe with over-the-top action and larger-than-life characters. Or if Baki was a bit 'too much' for you Kengan Ashura offers a similar but toned down feel. On the other hand, if Baki wasn't your thing, Kengan Ashura might not win you over.
Overall, Kengan Ashura is a thrilling ride for fans of martial arts and action-packed anime, delivering a satisfying mix of high-octane battles and intriguing character arcs. As it stands this anime is done and can be watched in its entirety. There is a sequil manga called Kengan Omega, but the anime deviated so much from the manga I don't think it will ever happen. If I'm honest, I hope it doesn't because this is a rare case of 'the anime did it better' and for Omega to come out they'd have to recon the current Ashura.
Review: Suicide Squad Isekai – A Mixed Bag of Chaos
Suicide Squad Isekai offers a concept that sounds like a commercial recipe for success: the infamous anti-heroes from the Suicide Squad thrust into a fantastical, isekai world. Unfortunately, that same concept combined with the execution leaves much to be desired for some.
Plot and Setting
The premise is upfront in the title. Watching the Suicide Squad’s notorious members navigate a magical realm that provides ample opportunities for chaos and comedy. DC wanting to bring their characters to anime brought on who they thought a sure-fire-hit writer Nagatsuki, Tappei. Not familiar with Japanese writers? Well he's the guy responsible for Re:Zero, it seems DC wanted Harley to be the next Rem. However, the story often feels like it’s spinning its wheels, relying too heavily on its gimmicky concept and growing cast without delivering much in terms of plot development or depth. Which might be a familiar issue to the readers of Re:Zero light novels.
Characters and Humor
The humor is where the show shines the most. The interactions between the squad members and their new world offer some genuinely amusing moments. However, these moments are sporadic and don’t always land. The characters are true to their original selves depending on what your experience with Batman is, but lack significant growth or new insights, making them feel a bit stagnant or maybe too familiar.
Animation and Style
The animation is decent, but it doesn’t stand out. The fantasy elements and action scenes are visually engaging, yet they fail to impress beyond the basics. The design is competent but lacks the flair that could elevate the series.
Themes and Execution
While the show attempts to explore themes of redemption and adaptation, it often feels superficial. The narrative doesn’t delve deeply enough into these themes, leaving them underdeveloped. The series is more focused on its gimmicky premise than on delivering a compelling story.
Suicide Squad Isekai is a mixed bag. Its concept is entertaining, and the humor has its moments, but the show struggles with consistency and consistent depth. It all somewhat pays off with a twist ending to bait for a season 2 but it's been off putting for some. It’s worth a watch if you’re a fan of either the Suicide Squad, isekai addicts or or just want a light funny, but don’t expect a groundbreaking experience. With a bit more refinement, it could have been a standout, but as it stands, it’s a fun but forgettable ride.
Review Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction
"Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction" is a unique and captivating anime series that stands out for its distinctive blend of comedy, science fiction, political commentary, and slice-of-life elements with a dash of possibly taking Doraemon a little too seriously. Created by Inio Asano, the show masterfully balances its lighthearted and surreal moments with deeper themes of existential dread and societal collapse.
The story is set in a world where an alien invasion has become a mundane part of everyday life, with the focus shifting to the lives of high school girls navigating this bizarre reality. The characters are well-developed, each bringing their own quirks and struggles to the narrative, with one girl seeming way off until you hear her story. Their interactions provide both humor and poignant insights into human nature and relationships.
The animation style is quirky and expressive, aligning perfectly with the show's offbeat tone. Their odd character designs can be off putting at times and hilarious at others, such as a quite entertaining Trump parody. This blend of vibrant visuals and quirky character designs contributes to its charm. The soundtrack, while not overly memorable, complements the series' tone and doesn't really matter overall since it's not essential to the story.
One of the strengths of Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction (I'm not typing that out again) is its ability to mix absurdity with genuine emotional depth. It challenges viewers to reflect on the absurdity of modern life and the way people adapt to bizarre situations. They've put so much effort into adding very real pieces of advice or commentary that is just glossed over and ignored unless you're paying close attention. The series may not appeal to everyone due to its unconventional storytelling and pacing. For instance the first episode (which is actually called episode 0) sets you up with expectations for something very different then what we actually get, and also Spoilers you on the fates of 3 characters, so you may want to skip it. But overall the series offers a refreshing take on the genre for those willing to embrace its idiosyncrasies.
Overall, Dededede is an intriguing watch that offers both humor and thought-provoking content, making it a standout in the anime landscape for those who appreciate a blend of the surreal and the sincere.
Review: Oshi no Ko Season 2
Oshi no Ko, the standout star of Doga Kobo (though my favorite is Maoujou de Oyasumi.) has returned for its highly anticipated second season, and it picks up right where the first left off, diving deeper into the complex world of the entertainment industry with its trademark blend of drama, mystery, and heartfelt moments.
Season 2 continues to explore the intricate lives of Ruby and Aqua with a fresh intensity. The storytelling remains sharp and engaging, delving into the personal and professional challenges faced by the characters. Some seem disappointed in hearing from characters other than Aqua, so if you were hoping for a Sherlock Holmes arc this might disappoint. That's not to say no progress is made towards the mystery of AI Hoshino, by episode 9 we've gotten some major updates. This season's narrative is rich with unexpected twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
One of the standout aspects of Season 2 is still its character development. The show takes time to flesh out the backstories and motivations of solid cast and new characters. The emotional depth and complexity of the characters add layers to the story, making their struggles and triumphs all the more impactful. The dynamic between the lead characters evolves, adding new dimensions to their relationships and personal growth.
Visually, Oshi no Ko maintains its high standards. The animation is crisp and vibrant, with detailed backgrounds and fluid character movements that enhance the storytelling. The artistic direction complements the show’s tone perfectly, whether it’s capturing the glitz of the entertainment world or the quieter, more introspective moments.
The soundtrack deserves a mention as well. The music, from the opening and ending themes to the background score, beautifully supports the narrative and emotional beats of the show. After all it's a show about a pop idol, if the soundtrack failed so would the show. It helps to create a compelling atmosphere that draws viewers deeper into the story.
Season 2 also explores new themes and issues, expanding on the industry’s darker aspects and the personal cost of fame. The balance between dramatic tension and moments of levity is handled well, ensuring that the show remains engaging without becoming overwhelming.
Overall, Oshi no Ko Season 2 builds on the strong foundation of its predecessor, delivering a season that is both gripping and emotionally resonant. It’s a must-watch for fans of the first season and anyone interested in a story that offers a nuanced look at the price of success and the pursuit of dreams.
If you haven’t started watching yet, now’s the perfect time to jump in. Even if the series as a whole doesn't sound like your cup of tea, the movie-like first episode is a great watch for everyone. And for those already following the series, Season 2 is sure to keep you hooked.
Oshi no Ko airs Wednesday at 11pm in Japan.
