Tired of the same old Netflix offerings? Craving a story that transcends the mundane, one that whisks you away to fantastical realms and explores the depths of human emotion? Look no further than the vibrant universe of anime.
Netflix has become a treasure trove for fans of this captivating art form, offering a diverse catalog that caters to every taste. From heart-pounding action to laugh-out-loud comedy, from thought-provoking drama to mind-bending sci-fi, there’s an anime series waiting to ignite your imagination.
The Rising Tide of Netflix Anime
Netflix has undergone a significant transformation in its approach to anime. Gone are the days of delayed releases and limited selections. The platform now actively seeks out exclusive content and prioritizes timely distribution, challenging its former reputation and solidifying its position as a major player in the anime world.
This renewed focus caters directly to the growing audience of anime fans who demand quality and accessibility. Netflix’s extensive library now encompasses a diverse range of genres, from the action-packed adventures of “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure” to the emotionally resonant storytelling of “Neon Genesis Evangelion.”
A global stage is provided by Netflix’s global reach, allowing anime creators to showcase their work to international audiences. This exposure can lead to increased recognition and opportunities for both established and emerging talents within the anime industry.
A Spectrum of Styles: Exploring Genre Diversity
While shonen titles like “My Hero Academia” and “Demon Slayer” remain popular, Netflix offers a diverse selection that extends beyond this genre. “Delicious in Dungeon,” with its unique blend of fantasy and cooking, showcases the platform’s willingness to explore unconventional themes.
For viewers seeking more mature narratives, “Neon Genesis Evangelion” and “Devilman Crybaby” delve into complex psychological themes and offer thought-provoking explorations of humanity.
Netflix also caters to fans of romance and comedy with series like “Kaguya-sama: Love is War,” a hilarious battle of wits between two high school students, and “Horimiya,” a heartwarming story about two seemingly different classmates who find common ground.
18 Must-Watch Anime Series on Netflix
Delicious in Dungeon
Adapted from Ryoko Kui’s hit manga, “Delicious in Dungeon” lovingly brings the author’s clear adoration for old-school RPGs and tantalizing feasts to life. Following broke monster fanatic Laios and his party as they venture deeper and deeper into the eponymous dungeon, it starts out seeming like your typical D&D fare before quickly veering into Food Network or even National Geographic territory.
The result is hilarious and heartfelt, while still giving viewers enough action and drama to keep coming back for more adventures. And the animation, provided by the deft hands at Studio Trigger, is a great match: equally warm and ferocious, depending on the scene.
Devilman Crybaby
An adaptation of Go Nagai’s classic manga, “Devilman Crybaby” is a great introduction to the characters and themes that inspired much of the modern shonen and tokusatsu landscape. Under the direction of industry legend Masaaki Yuasa, studio Science Saru lovingly dedicates itself to depicting gritty sex and violence in almost every other scene, and yet it all feels tasteful within the tight runtime.
A hellish treatise on human nature, love, and cycles of pain, this story ends in some truly biblical places, and the ride there is well worth it.
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Originally starting in the late ’80s as a supernatural spin on the tropes set by classic manga and anime Fist of the North Star, the series has since morphed into its own beast, drawing inspiration from high fashion, classic rock, the author’s own travels, and more.
To be honest, I’d recommend it to both battle anime and Drag Race fans alike. And yet as bizarre as it gets, it’s always got a sense of earnestness that truly helps you stay attached to the Joestar family amid its generations-long conflicts with vampires, serial killers, and mob bosses alike.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
A new dub of Neon Genesis Evangelion has been financed by Netflix, and the platform has also announced a new limited series set to be released in February with a star-studded cast.
This renewed focus on anime distribution marks a significant shift in Netflix’s strategy, and it will be interesting to see how the platform continues to evolve in this area.
Recent Releases
Some of the recent releases on Netflix include:
- “Heartstopper,” a super queer teen romance series based on the graphic novel series, which returns for its third season on October 3.
- “The Diplomat,” a show where Keri Russell plays a diplomat, which has been renewed for a second season.
- “Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft,” an animated adaptation of the Tomb Raider games, which is set to be released on October 10.
Other Highlights
Some other highlights on Netflix include:
- “Ali Wong” and “Rachel Bloom,” who will be releasing their comedy specials on October 8 and October 15, respectively.
- “Detroiters,” a two-season run of the show starring Tim Robinson, which is set to be released on October 15.
- “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” which will be leaving on October 2.
- “Crazy Rich Asians,” which will be leaving on October 10.
- “It Follows,” which will be leaving on October 21.
What’s Leaving Netflix in October
Some of the titles that will be leaving Netflix in October include:
The Art of Animation: Visual Storytelling
Netflix collaborates with renowned animation studios such as Studio Trigger (“Promare,” “Kill la Kill”), Science Saru (“Devilman Crybaby,” “Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!”), and Ufotable (“Fate/Zero,” “Demon Slayer”). These studios are known for their distinctive visual styles and commitment to high-quality animation.
Pushing Boundaries
Netflix’s platform allows animators to experiment with new techniques and push the boundaries of visual storytelling. From the fluid action sequences in “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure” to the surreal landscapes of “Little Witch Academia,” Netflix anime showcases a diverse range of artistic expression.
A Global Perspective
The platform’s global reach exposes audiences to anime styles from different cultures and countries, enriching the overall anime landscape.
Call to Action for Unionjournalism
The Power of Anime: Netflix’s investment in anime presents a valuable opportunity for Unionjournalism to explore the cultural impact of this medium.
Behind the Screens
Feature interviews with anime creators, artists, and voice actors to delve into the creative process and the challenges and rewards of working in this industry.
Fan Culture
Examine the vibrant online communities surrounding anime and the role of fandom in shaping the industry.
Anime’s Future
Discuss the future of anime and its potential to reach even wider audiences through Netflix and other streaming platforms.
Conclusion
From the poignant drama of “Violet Evergarden” to the thrilling action of “Demon Slayer,” this curated list spotlights a diverse range of anime series available on Netflix, each offering a unique perspective on life, love, and the human experience. We’ve explored how these animated narratives tackle complex themes with emotional depth, captivating visual storytelling, and compelling characters that resonate long after the credits roll. Beyond entertainment, these anime offer a window into Japanese culture, exploring its rich history, societal norms, and artistic sensibilities. As anime continues to gain global recognition, its influence on popular culture expands, blurring the lines between artistic boundaries and sparking conversations about storytelling, innovation, and the power of visual mediums. The next time you’re seeking a captivating cinematic experience, step beyond the familiar and allow yourself to be transported by the vibrant artistry and thought-provoking narratives of these must-watch anime. The stories waiting are boundless, and the possibilities for connection are infinite.