Ghost in the Shell is a cult classic of manga drawn and written by Masamune Shirow that has already been adapted many times. Both to anime and live action as well as video games, it is a work that is considered seminal of Japanese cyberpunk. Although not according to its author. And now we have the most faithful adaptation to date, from the hands of Science SARU, creators of Dandadan and Devilman Crybaby, with the confirmation of its release date. A classic animated by contemporary masters of anime Focusing on Major Motoko Kusanagi leading the Security Section […]
Ghost in the Shell is a cult classic manga drawn and written by Masamune Shirow that has been adapted many times. Both to anime and live-action as well as video games, it is a work that is considered seminal of Japanese cyberpunk. Although not according to its author. And now we have the most faithful adaptation to date, brought to us by Science SARU, creators of Dandadan and Devilman Crybaby, with the confirmation of its release date.
A classic animated by contemporary masters of anime
Focusing on Major Motoko Kusanagi, who leads Public Security Section 9, a counter-terrorism group specialized in technological crimes, the series promises to be the most faithful adaptation of the manga to date. This can be seen in a trailer with an art direction much closer to that of the original work, although with some peculiarities. It not only has the distinctive touch in animation from Science SARU but also a style similar to Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, the popular series that premiered in 2002. Combining the cartoon and retro style characteristic of the original work from the 90s with a more contemporary touch.
The series, which will be called Ghost in the Shell, like the original manga, will premiere on July 7 on Prime Video. With a global release already confirmed, that means we won’t have to wait to see the series: as it airs in Japan, we will be able to watch it in the rest of the world. And given the tremendous popularity of not only Ghost in The Shell but also Science SARU, it is expected that this will be one of the most talked-about series of the year.
Every year there is an anime that manages to sweep the general public. Sometimes there is more than one, but there is always at least one that manages to break out of the sphere of the anime-consuming audience. A series that stands out, generally because it has spectacular animation and a very dynamic pace, managing to captivate a much larger audience. This year we have not yet had any series of that kind, surprisingly, but that does not mean there haven’t been any in other years. In fact, the anime that took the world by storm last year is now returning with a second season. And it promises to double down […]
Every year there is an anime that manages to sweep the general public. Sometimes there is more than one, but there is always at least one that manages to break out of the anime-consuming audience. A series that stands out, generally because it has spectacular animation and a very dynamic pace, managing to captivate a much larger audience. This year we have not yet had any series of that kind, surprisingly, but that does not mean there haven’t been any in other years.
In fact, the anime that took the world by storm last year is now returning with a second season. And it promises to double down on everything that made it popular and a bit controversial as well. Because DanDaDan is back to prove that, if necessary, it will be the one to dominate for two consecutive years.
An explosive mix for a successful series
DanDaDan is a series about Momo Ayase and Ken Takakura, two high school boys. Momo believes in ghosts, but not in aliens; Ken believes in aliens, but not in ghosts. To determine who is right, they both decide to undertake their own tests of courage to prove that they are right and the other is wrong. The result is that, in fact, both are right and both are wrong. Ghosts exist. And aliens do too. And for some reason, they seem to be working together.
Due to this discovery, both begin to have successive encounters with the supernatural. This leads to the key to the series’ success: a mix of romantic comedy, action, drama, and spectacular animation.
Because the great success of DanDaDan lies in how it manages to combine all its elements. The romantic tension between Momo and Ken is palpable, but it simmers slowly. The action scenes are dynamic and spectacular. The moments of drama are heartfelt and brutal, although not without certain issues. And all the supernatural elements skillfully balance comedy and horror with enough grace. If we add to that an excellent soundtrack by Kensuke Ushio, probably the most sought-after composer in anime today, the result is a perfectly conceived work that is sure to captivate the audience.
A second season that will reinforce everything that has made it popular
In fact, this second season aims to reinforce this. To begin with, the direction is handled by Abel Góngora, a Spaniard who already directed the spectacular Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, and who promises to elevate the direction of the series even further. Moreover, it has been confirmed that this second season will adapt two specific arcs from the manga: Mal de Ojo and Casa Maldita.
Mal de Ojo is an arc where they will have to face a particularly powerful specter, all while a childhood friend of Momo joins them. In Casa Maldita, they will confront giant apparitions for the first time, raising the stakes and the action to a new level, but also leading to greater emotional development of the characters. Therefore, fans of the series, whether they prefer the romantic comedy aspect, character development, or action, should greatly enjoy this new season, as it will continue to hammer on those particular aspects.
The first season of DanDaDan is now available on Netflix and the second season premiered today, July 3rd, simultaneously on Crunchyroll and Netflix. So if you are a fan of Momo and Ken, you shouldn’t miss it, and if you’re not yet a fan, what are you waiting for to discover why it’s a hit among the audience?
The summer anime season officially kicks off in July and, as every quarter, Crunchyroll is preparing an extensive list of titles. The streaming platform will offer weekly premieres that will air simultaneously with their release in Japan, promising fans a summer filled with new series. The summer of anime Among the most notable premieres are the second season of ‘Dandadan’ and ‘Kaiju No.8’, as well as the fourth installment of ‘The Rising of the Shield Hero’. These continuations are highly anticipated by fans of the respective franchises and are set to keep […]
The summer anime season officially kicks off in July, and like every quarter, Crunchyroll is preparing an extensive list of titles. The streaming platform will offer weekly premieres that will air simultaneously with their release in Japan, promising fans a summer filled with new series.
The Summer of Anime
Among the most notable premieres are the second season of ‘Dandadan’ and ‘Kaiju No.8’, as well as the fourth installment of ‘The Rising of the Shield Hero’. These continuations are highly anticipated by fans of the respective franchises and are set to keep the excitement high throughout the season.
Summer will also bring back popular romantic comedies like ‘My Dress-Up Darling’ and ‘Rent-A-Girlfriend’, which have found a special place in the hearts of fans thanks to their charming plots and character development. However, the season will not be limited to comedies; ‘Gachiakuta’ is emerging as one of the most promising action animes, while ‘Solo Camping for Two’ presents itself as a calmer option for those looking to enjoy a relaxing narrative.
Aside from the premieres, Crunchyroll will also continue airing several series that started in spring. ‘One Piece’, one of the audience’s favorites, will remain the center of attention, along with new episodes of ‘Anne Shirley’, ‘To Be Hero X’, ‘Summer Pockets’, and ‘Witch Watch’.
As the start of the summer season approaches, anime fans can look forward to great moments and captivating narratives that will further solidify the place of Japanese animation in global pop culture. Crunchyroll ensures there is something for everyone, and with so many titles in the works, entertainment is guaranteed.
Although it may be difficult to pronounce and you might not say it out loud, Crunchyroll has announced that it will exclusively stream Gachiakuta, one of the most successful shonen of recent years, in July 2025. This new anime promises to capture the attention of fans thanks to its intriguing story and unique aesthetic inspired by urban art. The series is based on the work of Kei Urana and graffiti artist Hideyoshi Andou, who have managed to develop a visual style that sets Gachiakuta apart in the competitive world of anime. The adventures of Rudo, a very tough young man who […]
Although it may be difficult to pronounce and you might not say it out loud, Crunchyroll has announced that it will exclusively stream Gachiakuta, one of the most successful shonen series in recent years, in July 2025. This new anime promises to capture the attention of fans thanks to its intriguing story and unique aesthetic inspired by urban art. The series is based on the work of Kei Urana and graffiti artist Hideyoshi Andou, who have managed to develop a visual style that sets Gachiakuta apart in the competitive world of anime.
The Adventures of Rudo, a Very Tough Young Man Who Digs in the Trash
Hiroshi Seko, the writer behind Gachiakuta, is known for his work on other successful series such as DandaDan, Jujutsu Kaisen, Shingeki no Kyojin, and Chainsaw Man. In an official statement, Seko expressed his excitement for the project and the type of energy he hopes to evoke in each episode of the new anime, suggesting that Gachiakuta will offer an intense and engaging experience for viewers.
As Crunchyroll prepares for the summer anime season, Gachiakuta is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated premieres by fans of the genre, thus expanding its offering of exclusive and quality content. There is anticipation about how the saga’s followers will receive this adaptation to the animated format in the coming year.
Today, we’re talking about the most anticipated anime of 2024, focusing on the major new releases we can look forward to this year.
Although 2023 has been a great year for anime, that doesn’t mean that 2024 has to slack off in any way. In fact, on the horizon, we have some very promising series. While it is true that in this medium it is sometimes difficult to predict when a year is going to be good, since many unexpected things can happen, we are going to try at least to get a feel for a handful of things that we should keep an eye on. So that not everything catches us by surprise.
With adaptations of manga that have already been adapted in the past, there is always the risk of encountering a failure. Especially when the previous adaptation was a cult success. Something that happens with Bartender: Kami no Glass, but that will not prevent us from having faith for two very specific reasons: the trailer has given us hope and the name Mariko Kunisawa inspires confidence.
Bartender: Kami no Glass is about a bartender who is able to create exactly the drink that each person needs to drink at the exact moment of their life they are in. Something that releases their repressed emotions, thoughts, and memories, leading them to talk about how they feel and allowing them to move forward with their life. And if we say that the name Kunisawa inspires confidence, it’s because she is the scriptwriter of Ascendance of a Bookworm and The case files of Jeweler Richard, two series that are very solid in their script and the treatment of their characters and their psychological development. Exactly what this Bartender needs.
Dandadan
This year we have two series with the potential to sweep everything in their path. One of them is Dandadan. The reason is quite clear: no Shonen Jump manga has had the success that this work by Yukinobu Tatsu has had in a long time. Even if it hasn’t been published in any magazine, being published directly on the digital service Shonen Jump+, it has been a great success. With 3.2 million copies in circulation of a total of 12 volumes, which is a huge but not overwhelming number, and 360 million views on Shonen Jump+, which is a staggering number, the series is an undisputed success.
But in addition, for the adaptation to anime they have not chosen just anyone. They have decided that those who have the potential to turn it into a mass phenomenon should take charge. Behind it is Science Saru, responsible for Scott Pilgrim Takes Off or Devilman Cry Baby, so success is practically guaranteed. Putting Dandadan in our list of series to watch no matter what when it premieres in October.
Dungeon Meshi
We don’t have to go far to know about the other series with the potential to sweep everything in its path. Dungeon Meshi, has everything to succeed. It has a cult manga, it is inspired by Dungeons & Dragons, it is produced by Trigger studio and it is premiered on Netflix. Everything is in its favor to be a success, because absolutely nothing stands in the way of people enjoying the series.
In addition, it’s easy to connect with its premise. A group of adventurers must descend into an unprepared dungeon to save a companion who was left behind. Because of that, they will have to feed on what they find along the way, which is basically one thing: monsters. Delirious, hilarious, and very, very fun, it has the potential to be the first great anime of the year. And perhaps the great anime of the year, in general.
Korea has slowly but steadily entered the world of comics, drawing inspiration from manga but giving it its own personality. Very focused on its own style, with its own personality, they have achieved many successes, especially in the romance and action genres, where Japan seemed unbeatable. In this second case, there is now an anime adaptation of one of Korea’s most famous webtoons: Solo Leveling.
Produced by A-1 Pictures, who are premiering this season the second season of Mashle: Magic and Muscles, the story puts us in the shoes of a notably weak young man in a world of monster hunters with supernatural powers. At least, until a mysterious program chooses him as a lone player and gives him a powerful ability that makes him unstoppable. Packed with action, we can expect spectacular animation and lots of fights, with healthy doses of adventure and classic life-threatening situations typical of this type of stories. Exactly what we are looking for.
Tokidoki Bosotto Russia-go de Dereru Tonari no Alya-san
Making a list of the most anticipated anime of a year without including a romantic comedy feels like a waste. To begin with, it is one of the most represented genres in anime and although underrated, it usually has a more than acceptable average quality. In the case of 2024, the most promising one so far is Tokidoki Bosotto Russia-go de Dereru Tonari no Alya-san. Or translated into English, Alya sometimes hides her feelings in Russian.
The premise is very simple. A demotivated boy named Masachika who always sleeps in class has a Russian girl as his desk mate, nicknamed Alya, who is always complaining about him. But from time to time she makes flirty comments to him, of course, in perfect Russian. What she doesn’t know is that Masachika knows Russian. All of this leads to a series of entanglements and situations that will bring them closer over time in a charming series that will delight lovers of romantic comedies.
Dandadan, the manga of the moment, will have an anime adaptation by one of the most cutting-edge studios in Japanese animation
Even as the year draws to a close, the industry never stops, and announcements for upcoming anime are already among us. Anything announced now won’t premiere until well into 2024, but that doesn’t make this final stretch of the year any less exciting. It prepares us for everything we’ll see starting from next spring or summer. Especially thrilling is the announcement of the anime adaptation of one of the most esteemed manga of the present, from one of the most pioneering animation studios of all time.
Dandadan, the popular manga of battles, paranormal mystery, and romantic comedy by Yukinobu Tatsu, will have an anime adaptation. Produced by Science SARU, the studio founded by Masaaki Yuasa and Eunyoung Choi, known for works like Ping Pong the Animation and the highly successful Scott Pilgrim, it will be directed by Fūga Yamashiro, making their directorial debut after working as an assistant director on Inu-Oh, Tatami Time Machine Blues, and Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!
Adding to the mix, the script will be handled by Hiroshi Seki, known for works in a similar vein such as Attack on Titan, Chainsaw Man, Mob Psycho 100, and Jujutsu Kaisen. And in keeping with the studio’s tradition, the music will be composed by Kensuke Ushio, recognized for his work in excellent productions like Liz and the Blue Bird, Devilman Crybaby, and Chainsaw Man.
“Dandadan” follows the story of two teenagers who are polar opposites. Okarun believes in aliens but thinks spirits are fake, while Momo Ayase believes in spirits but considers UFOs and everything related to them as nonsense. Their beliefs will be shattered when they have to fight together against a series of supernatural threats that will test their convictions. Along the way, they’ll find themselves in situations where their relationship gradually evolves into something more than just friendship.
In Spain, “Dandadan” is published by Norma Editorial and can be read for free through Manga PLUS, the digital manga service of Shonen Jump. Although the anime doesn’t have a release date yet, new information will be revealed during Jump Festa 2024, which will take place on December 16th.