Prime Video is set to launch “Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26,” an anime anthology series adapting eight of the renowned manga artist’s early short stories, globally on November 7, 2025. Each of the eight distinct films in the collection showcases a unique directorial vision, bringing to life the formative works of the “Chainsaw Man” creator.
The series offers a diverse exploration of genres, ranging from post-apocalyptic survival to romantic comedy and psychological drama, reflecting Fujimoto’s creative breadth before his breakout successes.
A Glimpse into Fujimoto’s Formative Years
“Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26” compiles stories penned by Fujimoto between the ages of 17 and 26, drawing from his short story collections “Tatsuki Fujimoto Before Chainsaw Man: 17-21” and “Tatsuki Fujimoto Before Chainsaw Man: 22-26.” This project allows audiences to witness the foundational elements of the mangaka’s unique storytelling style that would later define hits like “Chainsaw Man” and the critically acclaimed film “Look Back.”
Prior to its global streaming debut on Prime Video, the anthology had a limited theatrical run in Japan, beginning October 17, 2025. It also held its world premiere at the Global Stage Hollywood 2025 Film Festival in Los Angeles on October 5.
Diverse Directors and Animation Studios Unveil Each Story’s World
A remarkable aspect of “Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26” is its collaborative nature, with seven acclaimed directors and six prominent animation studios each taking on an individual short story. This multi-studio approach ensures that each episode maintains its distinct identity and artistic interpretation, honoring the original manga’s diverse themes and tones.
The animation studios involved include ZEXCS, Lapin Track, GRAPH77, 100studio, Studio Kafka, and P.A. WORKS. The lineup of directors features talents such as Tetsuaki Watanabe, Nobuyuki Takeuchi, Kazuaki Terasawa, Seishiro Nagaya, Nobukage Kimura, Naoya Ando, and Osamu Honma, each bringing their expertise to Fujimoto’s narratives.
The Eight Distinctive Tales
The anthology comprises eight compelling narratives:
- “A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin’ in the Schoolyard”
- “Sasaki Stopped a Bullet”
- “Love is Blind”
- “Shikaku”
- “Mermaid Rhapsody”
- “Woke-Up-as-a-Girl Syndrome”
- “Nayuta of the Prophecy”
- “Sisters”
These stories delve into varied themes, from a post-apocalyptic bond in “A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin’ in the Schoolyard” to the adolescent intensity of “Sasaki Stopped a Bullet,” the cosmic romance of “Love is Blind,” and the twisted affections in “Shikaku.” Other tales explore a poignant romance in “Mermaid Rhapsody,” identity in “Woke-Up-as-a-Girl Syndrome,” familial destiny in “Nayuta of the Prophecy,” and artistic rivalry in “Sisters.”
Fujimoto’s Reflection on Early Works
Tatsuki Fujimoto himself has commented on the adaptation of his earlier works, admitting a degree of anxiety. “Having my works from my student years being adapted into anime made me anxious, wondering if this was really okay, and if these works might have relied too heavily on others’ inspiration,” he stated. However, he expressed trust in the creative teams, adding, “Although I haven’t seen them yet, I believe that through the work of talented directors, they have become proper, well-crafted pieces.”
The anthology is a testament to Fujimoto’s creative evolution and offers fans a unique opportunity to explore the origins of a manga artist who continues to push the boundaries of storytelling.
