Adult Swim’s track record in anime adaptations has been a mix of ambition and missteps. While Adult Swim has certainly helped bring about the popularity of anime in Western markets, its own foray into original shows has not gone so well. Take, for example, their highly anticipated anime adaptation of Uzumaki, which has already been pushed back multiple times to the point of having fans in doubt about Adult Swim’s potential. And now, Lazarus.
The anime is directed by the iconic Shinichirō Watanabe (the same director behind Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo), animated by MAPPA, and action sequences choreographed by John Wick mastermind Chad Stahelski, so hopes are high. Yet, considering Adult Swim’s history, there is always a fear that Lazarus might suffer the same destiny as its predecessors.
The curse of Adult Swim’s anime adaptations
Lazarus‘ biggest warning story is Uzumaki, an adaptation of Junji Ito’s critically acclaimed horror manga. When the project was first announced, fans were excited by its striking black-and-white aesthetic, which closely resembled Ito’s artwork.
However, multiple delays pushed its release further into uncertainty, leaving fans frustrated and doubtful. Though there remains hope in Uzumaki, the questionable history of this project indicates how capable Adult Swim is in fulfilling bold anime projects.
Another Adult Swim-supported anime, Ninja Kamui, had a solid premise and good action but ultimately didn’t live up to expectations. While not a disaster, it just lacked the polish and engaging storytelling necessary to leave a lasting impression. The show is a reminder that even with talented creative teams, execution is key, and mistakes can turn likely hits into forgettable flops.
Why Lazarus looks promising: Should we get excited?
In spite of the past disappointments, Lazarus has a number of things working in its favor that might stop it from going down the same road. Watanabe’s name alone has prestige in the world of anime. His former series, Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, and Space Dandy, are all known for having different storytelling, music, and aesthetics. If anyone can deliver an engaging cyberpunk action adventure, then it is Watanabe.
Adding to that, MAPPA has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the anime world, delivering breathtaking animation in Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, and Attack on Titan: The Final Season. Their presence in Lazarus guarantees quality visuals and smooth action scenes. MAPPA’s infamous overworking of staff is an issue, though. Can the studio manage to deliver without compromising its artists’ health?
Moreover, hiring John Wick director Chad Stahelski to write the action sequences is a bold and thrilling move. His background in creating quick, hard-hitting fight scenes could take Lazarus to new levels, distinguishing it from typical anime action sequences. If done right, this could be one of the biggest selling points of the show.
Meanwhile, the story of the anime takes place in 2052, when human society has reached an unprecedented height of peace and prosperity. This utopia is attributed to a groundbreaking drug called Hapuna, developed by Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist Dr. Skinner. Hapuna apparently cures all diseases without side effects, until, as always happens, something goes horribly wrong.
The cyberpunk world and dystopian themes of the show sound intriguing, but the execution will decide if Lazarus turns into a groundbreaking series or yet another missed chance. The project’s talent is undeniable, but considering Adult Swim’s history with anime, skepticism among the fans is also justified.
If all goes well, Lazarus may be a game-changer for Adult Swim’s original anime output. If not, it might join Uzumaki and Ninja Kamui as another cautionary tale of wasted potential.
For now, I will keep my fingers crossed for the time being. Lazarus has all the ingredients for success, but with previous disappointments, it needs a miracle to truly deliver. Lazarus anime to make its debut on April 5 on Adult Swim.
Lazarus will also be available to watch on Crunchyroll after its release.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
