Crunchyroll has added the Fafner THE BEYOND anime to its streaming catalog as of March 25, 2025. This continues Crunchyroll’s involvement with the Fafner franchise, as they previously streamed Fafner EXODUS. Fafner THE BEYOND consists of 12 episodes that were initially released in Japanese theaters as a series of four films between May 2019 and November 2021.
What is Fafner in the Azure?
Fafner in the Azure is a Japanese mecha anime franchise created by Xebec in collaboration with Starchild Records. The story revolves around children piloting Fafners in a war against giant aliens called Festum. The anime series borrows heavily from Norse Mythology.
The Fafner timeline includes:
- Fafner in the Azure: Dead Aggressor (2004) – The first 26-episode series.
- Fafner in the Azure: Right of Left (2005) – A television special.
- Fafner in the Azure: Heaven and Earth (2010) – A feature film.
- Fafner in the Azure: Exodus (2015) – A 26-episode sequel series.
- Fafner THE BEYOND (2019-2021) – A 12-episode sequel, released as four films.
- Fafner in the Azure: Behind the Line (2023) – A special episode set between Heaven and Earth and Exodus.
Production Details of Fafner THE BEYOND
Many of the main staff members returned for Fafner THE BEYOND. Takashi Noto, chief director for both seasons of Fafner EXODUS and the Fafner: Heaven and Earth film, directed the project. Tow Ubukata and Hisashi Hirai returned as scriptwriter and character designer, respectively. Michie Suzuki took over as art director, and Takuma Morooka was the new compositing director of photography. Gou Nakanishi served as executive producer. XEBECzwei animated the production, and Tsuneyoshi Saito returned to compose the music. The duo angela performed the opening theme song “Sakebe” (Shout!).
Story and Themes
Fafner explores themes of war, identity, and sacrifice, challenging its teenage characters. The series is known for its blend of mecha action with character-driven drama, exploring the relationships and emotional struggles of the Fafner pilots. The interpersonal moments are as important as the battles, highlighting the human cost of war.
Reception and Critical Analysis
Fafner in the Azure has garnered a dedicated fanbase over the years, praised for its engaging story, mecha designs, and exploration of complex themes. While some critics have noted that the characters can be unoriginal, the series stands out for its unique storytelling approach.
Where to Watch
Fafner THE BEYOND is now available for streaming on Crunchyroll. Crunchyroll also licensed and streamed the original 2004 anime Fafner and the 2010 film Sōkyū no Fafner: Dead Aggressor: Heaven and Earth.
