Shinichirō Watanabe, the visionary director behind anime classics like “Cowboy Bebop” and “Samurai Champloo,” is back with a brand-new original anime series titled “Lazarus.” Produced by MAPPA, the acclaimed animation studio known for “Attack on Titan: The Final Season” and “Jujutsu Kaisen,” “Lazarus” is generating immense excitement among anime fans worldwide. The opening video is now available for streaming, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the stylish and action-packed world Watanabe has created. The series is scheduled to premiere in April 2025, with near-simultaneous broadcasts in both Japan and the United States.
Lazarus: A Deep Dive into Watanabe’s New Anime
Plot and Setting: A Dystopian Future Unveiled
“Lazarus” unfolds in 2052, a seemingly utopian era where humanity has been freed from sickness and pain thanks to Hapna, a miracle drug developed by Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist Dr. Skinner. However, this era of peace is shattered when Skinner reappears, revealing that Hapna has a deadly three-year half-life, and everyone who has taken it will soon die. In response to this impending catastrophe, a special task force of five agents, codenamed “Lazarus,” is assembled to find Skinner and develop a vaccine before time runs out.
The anime delves into themes of societal dependence on medication, the consequences of unchecked scientific advancement, and the resilience of humanity in the face of inevitable death. Watanabe’s inspiration for the anime stems from real-world issues such as the opioid crisis and climate change, adding layers of depth and relevance to the narrative.
Production and Release Details
“Lazarus” is a collaborative effort between MAPPA and Sola Entertainment, with Watanabe serving as the director. The action sequences are designed by Chad Stahelski, known for his work on the “John Wick” film franchise, promising exhilarating and stylish action choreography. The music composition features a score by jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington, along with contributions from Bonobo and Floating Points, ensuring a unique and evocative sonic landscape.
The series will premiere on April 5, 2025, on Adult Swim’s Toonami block in the United States, with a next-day upload on Max. It will also air in Japan on TV Tokyo in April 2025. The Japanese version with English subtitles will be available on Adult Swim and Max 30 days after the English premiere.
Key Characters and Voice Actors
The anime features a diverse cast of characters, each with their unique skills and personalities. The Japanese voice cast includes:
- Axel: Mamoru Miyano (Japanese) / Jack Stansbury (English)
- Doug: Makoto Furukawa (Japanese)
- Christine: Maaya Uchida (Japanese)
- Leland: Yuuma Uchida (Japanese)
- Hersch: Megumi Hayashibara (Japanese)
- Abel: Akio Ootsuka (Japanese)
- Skinner: Kouichi Yamadera (Japanese)
- Eleina: Manaka Iwami (Japanese)
Shinichirō Watanabe: A Master of Anime
Shinichirō Watanabe is a highly acclaimed anime director known for his distinctive style, mature themes, and incorporation of diverse genres. His most famous works include:
- Cowboy Bebop (1998): A space western about a group of bounty hunters traveling the solar system.
- Samurai Champloo (2004): An alternate history series blending samurai themes with hip-hop culture.
- Kids on the Slope (2012): A coming-of-age story about young jazz musicians in 1960s Japan.
- Terror in Resonance (2014): A thriller about two teenage terrorists who challenge the Japanese government.
- Space Dandy (2014): A comedic sci-fi series about a space explorer searching for new alien species.
Watanabe’s works often feature memorable characters, stylish action sequences, and evocative music, earning him a reputation as one of the most influential anime directors of his generation.
MAPPA: The Animation Powerhouse Behind Lazarus
MAPPA (Maruyama Animation Produce Project Association) is a Japanese animation studio founded in 2011 by Masao Maruyama, a veteran anime producer who previously founded Madhouse. MAPPA has quickly become one of the most respected and prolific animation studios in the industry, known for its high-quality animation and diverse range of projects.
Notable works by MAPPA include:
- Yuri!!! on Ice (2016): A sports anime about figure skating.
- In This Corner of the World (2016): An animated film about a young woman living in Hiroshima during World War II.
- Jujutsu Kaisen (2020): A dark fantasy anime about a high school student who becomes involved in a battle against curses.
- Attack on Titan: The Final Season (2020): The final season of the popular action anime.
- Vinland Saga (Season 2) (2023): The second season of the historical adventure anime.
- Chainsaw Man (2022): A horror action anime about a young man who merges with a chainsaw devil.
MAPPA’s commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among anime fans and a driving force in the industry.
Initial Reactions and Anticipation
The release of the opening video has generated a wave of excitement among anime fans. The stylish animation, the intriguing plot, and the involvement of Shinichirō Watanabe and MAPPA have created high expectations for “Lazarus.” Many fans are praising the series’ unique blend of sci-fi, action, and social commentary, as well as its potential to explore complex themes in a thought-provoking way.
With its impressive creative team, compelling premise, and stunning visuals, “Lazarus” has the potential to be one of the most impactful anime series of 2025. Fans eagerly anticipate its premiere to witness Watanabe’s latest masterpiece unfold.
