A Unique Horror Anime World! What is Junji Ito's "Maniac"?

© JI/Asahi Shimbun Publications & Junji Ito "Maniac" Production Committee

"Maniac," an anime based on the horror manga by Junji Ito, captivates many fans with its unique world and terror. This article introduces the synopsis, cast, staff, broadcast information, and streaming details of the anime "Maniac."

About "Maniac"

"Maniac" is an anime adaptation of works by Junji Ito, one of Japan's leading horror manga artists. It started streaming on Netflix in 2023 and is scheduled for TV broadcast on TOKYO MX in the summer of 2024.

Synopsis

The anime themes around "madness" and "maniacs," animating 20 stories selected from Junji Ito's masterpieces. All 12 episodes are available on Netflix, each with a standalone story while sharing the world of Junji Ito.

Cast & Staff

Cast

The main cast includes talented voice actors such as Takahiro Sakurai, Romi Park, Hajime Iijima, Risa Shimizu, Ayaka Asai, and Tomoko Kaneda. Their performances add depth to the anime's world. The cast changes with each story, so please check the official website for details.

Staff

Shinobu Tagashira is appointed as the director and character designer, with Kaoru Sawada handling the script. Yuki Hayashi composes the music, and Studio Deen is in charge of animation production. These staff members faithfully recreate the unique atmosphere of the original work.

Original Work: Junji Ito
"Junji Ito Masterpiece Collection," "Fragments of Horror," "The Depths of Horror: A Study of Junji Ito" (Published by Asahi Shimbun Publications)
Director & Character Design: Shinobu Tagashira
Script: Kaoru Sawada
Sound Director: Hodzumi Gouda
Music: Yuki Hayashi
Production Studio: Studio Deen

Broadcast & Streaming Information

Broadcast Information

The streaming on Netflix started on January 19, 2023, and the TV broadcast on TOKYO MX is set to begin at 22:00 on July 7, 2024. The series is composed of 12 episodes, each with an independent story.

Streaming Information

All 12 episodes are available at once on Netflix, allowing viewers to watch anytime they like. Also, the official website and official X are constantly updated with the latest information, so fans should keep an eye out.

"Maniac" is a work that breathes new life into Junji Ito's terror through the medium of anime. Experience its charm for yourself.

© JI/Asahi Shimbun Publications & Junji Ito "Maniac" Production Committee

Official Site for Anime Junji Ito's "Maniac"

Official X for Anime Junji Ito's "Maniac"

The Birth of a Dark Hero in the Rogue Ninja World! Introducing the Anime 'NINJA KAMUI'!

©SOLA ENTERTAINMENT/Sunghoo Park

Hello, anime fans! Today, I bring you information about the new anime 'NINJA KAMUI'. This work is a dramatic story set in the world of ninjas and will start airing on July 1, 2024.

Synopsis

'NINJA KAMUI' is a story where the protagonist is Joe Higan, a rogue ninja. He is a ninja who has escaped from his former organization and, after his family is murdered, vows revenge and to restore his family's honor. As a rogue ninja with newfound powers, he is determined to take revenge on the organization.

Cast & Staff

Cast

The main character, Joe Higan, is played by Kenjiro Tsuda, whose performance has been highly praised by many fans. The powerful cast also includes Atsushi Ono (Mike Morris), Yuki Wakai (Emma Samanda), Yurika Hino (Mari), and Shinta Kimura (Ren), among others.

• Higan: Kenjiro Tsuda
• Mike Morris: Atsushi Ono
• Emma Samanda: Yuki Wakai
• Mari: Yurika Hino
• Ren: Shinta Kimura
• Joseph: Ryumaru Tachibana
• Lil: Setsuji Sato
• Jiri: Romi Park
• Big D: Kosuke Sakaki
• Zai: Yuichi Nakamura
• Yamaji: Kazuhiro Yamaji
• Jason: Takashi Nagasako

Staff

The director is Sunghoo Park, known for works such as 'Jujutsu Kaisen (Season 1)' and 'The God of High School'. The original character design is by Nohbushi Okazaki, who participated in 'Ninja Batman', and the series composition is by Shigeru Murakoshi, known for 'Zombieland Saga'.

• Director: Sunghoo Park
• Assistant Director: Yui Miura
• Original Character Design: Nohbushi Okazaki
• Series Composition: Shigeru Murakoshi
• Character Design: Sayaka Koiso
• Art Director: Rugal Yang
• Color Design: Ami Kutsuna
• Photography Director/VFX: Zhou Mei Li
• 3DCG Director: Jae Hun Shin
• Editor: Keisuke Yanagi
• Sound Director: Akiko Fujita
• Music: R・O・N
• Music Producer: Kenki Kobayashi
• Animation Production: E&H production
• Planning and Production: SOLA Entertainment

Broadcast & Streaming Information

Broadcast Information

Starting July 1, 2024 (Monday), broadcasting every Monday at 24:00 on TOKYO MX!

Streaming Information

Starting July 1, 2024 (Monday), streaming every Monday from 24:30 on:

• d Anime Store
• d Anime Store for Prime Video

Starting July 6, 2024 (Saturday), streaming every Saturday from noon on:

• ABEMA
• DMM TV
• FOD
• Hulu
• Lemino
• U-NEXT
• Anime Unlimited
• Disney Plus
• Bandai Channel
• WOWOW On Demand
• Prime Video

Starting July 6, 2024 (Saturday), streaming every Saturday from 24:00 on:

• TELASA (Unlimited Viewing Plan)
• J:COM STREAM (Unlimited Viewing)
• milplus Unlimited Pack Prime
• au Smart Pass Premium

Conclusion

'NINJA KAMUI' is a work that depicts the theme of ninjas from a new perspective, and the participation of actors such as Kenjiro Tsuda and Yuichi Nakamura is highly anticipated. With the start of this broadcast, there is no doubt that many fans are enjoying this work. Anime fans, be sure to check out 'NINJA KAMUI'!

©SOLA ENTERTAINMENT/Sunghoo Park

Official Website of the TV Anime 'NINJA KAMUI'

About the TV Anime "Nanare Hananare": A Masterpiece of the New Era of Animation!

© Nanare Project / Nanare Hananare Production Committee

Hello everyone! Today, I'd like to introduce the much-talked-about anime "Nanare Hananare," including its synopsis, cast, staff, and broadcast & streaming information. The original TV anime "Nanare Hananare," which depicts the beautiful nature of Gunma Prefecture and the brilliance of youth, will warm our hearts on the screen starting July 2024. This work is a collaboration between P.A.WORKS and DMM.com, offering a unique perspective that anime fans won't want to miss.

Synopsis

"Nanare Hananare" centers around six high school girls, depicting their daily lives and cheerleading activities, along with the themes of friendship, effort, and the challenge of pursuing dreams. Through cheerleading, the pure support of these girls impacts those around them, unfolding an emotional story.

Cast & Staff

Cast

The main characters are brought to life by a talented voice acting cast, including Rika Nakagawa, Yuki Nakajima, Rarisa Takeda Tago, Maina Ishimi, Moe Kahara, and Miku Ito. Their performances deeply explore the characters' inner worlds, adding depth to the story.

• Kanata Misora: Rika Nakagawa
• Ryoha Otonai: Yuki Nakajima
• Ana Aveiro: Rarisa Takeda Tago
• Oka Otonai: Maina Ishimi
• Shion Tanizaki: Moe Kahara
• Keifuka Kaionji: Miku Ito
• Ichigo Izawano: Azusa Tadokoro
• Hana Seitenme: Yuna Kitahara
• Hiiragi Kanzaki: Rikako Aida
• Miyabi Kushida: Yu Serizawa

Staff

The director is Hiroshi Kakimoto, with character design by Kanami Sekiguchi and Nana Miura. The animation production is handled by P.A.WORKS, known for their high-quality work, vividly bringing the beautiful landscapes of Gunma Prefecture to the screen.

• Director & Series Composition: Hiroshi Kakimoto
• Script: Hiroshi Kakimoto, Midori Goto, Yuniko Ayana
• Original Character Design: Tomomi Takada
• Character Design & Chief Animation Director: Kanami Sekiguchi, Nana Miura
• Color Design: Naomi Nakano
• Art Director: Yusuke Takeda, Tsukasa Kakizakai, GK Sales
• 3D Director: Haruki Suzuki
• Director of Photography: Kohei Asahi
• Editor: Tomomi Umezu (Editz)
• Music: Naoki Tani (HANO)
• Sound Director: Takumi Ito
• Sound Production: HALF H・P STUDIO
• Music Producer: Yujin Kitagawa (Yuzu)
• Score & Insert Song Music Producer: Yohei Kizaru (Stray Cats)
• Choreography & Cheerleading Supervision: Cheer Creation
• Animation Production: P.A.WORKS

Broadcast Information & Streaming Information

Broadcast Information

Starting from July 7, 2024, it will be broadcast every Sunday at 23:45 on the TV Tokyo network.

• TV Tokyo: Starting July 7, 2024 (Sun) 23:45 - Every Sunday at 23:45
• TV Osaka: Starting July 7, 2024 (Sun) 23:45 - Every Sunday at 23:45
• TV Aichi: Starting July 7, 2024 (Sun) 23:45 - Every Sunday at 23:45
• TV Hokkaido: Starting July 7, 2024 (Sun) 23:45 - Every Sunday at 23:45
• TV Setouchi: Starting July 7, 2024 (Sun) 23:45 - Every Sunday at 23:45
• TVQ Kyushu Broadcasting: Starting July 7, 2024 (Sun) 23:45 - Every Sunday at 23:45
• BS TV Tokyo: Starting July 8, 2024 (Mon) 24:30 - Every Monday at 24:30
• AT-X: Starting July 10, 2024 (Wed) 21:00 - Every Wednesday at 21:00

Streaming Information

It will be pre-streamed on d Anime Store DMM TV. Anime fans won't want to miss "Nanare Hananare," which will color the summer nights.

Pre-Streaming

• Starting July 7, 2024 (Sun) from 24:15 - Every Sunday at 24:15 on d Anime Store, DMM TV

General Streaming

• Starting July 12, 2024 (Fri) from 24:15 - Every Friday at 24:15 on ABEMA, U-NEXT, Anime Hodai, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, FOD, Lemino, TVer, Net mo TV Tokyo, Anime Festa, Video Market, Kantele Dogatch, music.jp, Crank In! Video
• Starting July 12, 2024 (Fri) from 24:30 - Every Friday at 24:30 on Bandai Channel
• Starting July 13, 2024 (Sat) from 12:00 - Every Saturday at 12:00 on HAPPY Video
• Starting July 14, 2024 (Sun) from 0:00 - Every Sunday at 0:00 on TELASA, J:COM STREAM Unlimited Viewing, au Smart Pass Premium, milplus

*Please note that the streaming schedule is subject to change without notice. Please check each streaming service for details.

Conclusion

The anime "Nanare Hananare" is not just a youth drama. It is a work that teaches us the courage to take a step toward our dreams and the joy of growing with friends. Why not step into a new world of animation this summer?

© Nanare Project / Nanare Hananare Production Committee

Official Website of TV Anime "Nanare Hananare"

Official X of TV Anime "Nanare Hananare"

Absolutely Not in the Reiwa Era! What is the Anime 'School Days'?

©STACK・SchoolDays Production Committee 2007

The anime 'School Days' is based on a romance simulation game that aired in 2007. This work is known for its shocking development and conclusion, which surprised many viewers. However, watching this anime in the Reiwa era highlights several issues.

Societal Values Have Changed

In the Reiwa era, people's societal values have changed significantly. In particular, attitudes towards gender and human relationships have evolved, and diversity has become more accepted. However, the human relationships depicted in 'School Days' can be seen as problematic from today's perspective.

Treatment of Characters

The main characters struggle within a complex love triangle, sometimes leading to extreme actions. This generates empathy for the characters while also attracting criticism for glorifying unhealthy relationships.

Shocking Conclusion

The most controversial aspect of 'School Days' is its conclusion. The anime's ending left a strong impression on viewers, but due to its violent scenes, it is considered unsuitable for modern viewing standards.

Currently Streaming Sites

• U-NEXT
• Niconico Video
• DMM TV
• Rakuten TV
• d Anime Store
• ABEMA Premium
• Bandai Channel
• FOD Premium
• TSUTAYA DISCAS

Conclusion

'School Days' was a topic of conversation for its novelty at the time of broadcast, but in the Reiwa era, some aspects of its content are less acceptable. As society evolves, how we perceive and learn from past works is a challenge for each of us. It's quite a stimulating work, so it might be fun to watch it now! However, if you're not good with gore, it might be best not to watch it until the end.

©STACK・SchoolDays Production Committee 2007

Official Website of the TV Anime 'School Days'

A Tsundere Villain's Aide and a Tragic Magical Girl's Love Story! Introducing the Anime 'Mahoaku' in Detail!

Hello everyone! Today, I would like to introduce the heart-stirring TV anime "Once, Magical Girls and Evil Were Enemies." I'll cover everything from the synopsis to the cast, staff, and broadcast & streaming information. This work, based on the manga by Kokoa Fujiwara, depicts a unique romantic comedy where magical girls and evil forces engage in a 'love-hate' relationship.

Synopsis

The anime portrays the romantic entanglements of Shiro Yoru, a tragic magical girl who stands up to the threat of terrestrial invasion, and Mira, the villain's aide she confronts. What will become of their relationship?

Cast & Staff

Cast

• Mira: Yūki Ono
• Shiro Yoru: Mai Nakahara
• Messenger (Cat): Shinichiro Miki
• Kagari Hibana: Mariya Ise
• Messenger (Bird): Hikaru Midorikawa
• Fomalhaut: Kenichi Suzumura
• Bellatrix: Ayako Kawasumi
• Alcyone: Hiro Shimono
• Spica: Nao Toyama
• Sadalsuud: Takumi Yamazaki
• Betelgeuse: Takaya Kuroda

Staff

• Original Work: Kokoa Fujiwara 'Gangan Comics JOKER' published by Square Enix
• Director: Akiyo Ohashi
• Series Composition & Script: Yuniko Ayana
• Character Design: Haruko Iizuka
• Sub Character Design & Chief Animation Director: Nobuhiro Arai
• Prop Design: Miho Araki
• Art Director: Yumiko Kuga, Takumi Oniki
• Color Design: Yukari Goto
• Director of Photography: Takeshi Godai
• Editor: Kumiko Sakamoto
• Sound Director: Eriko Kimura
• Sound Effects: Masatake Ichi
• Music: MAYUKO
• Music Production: Avex Pictures
• Animation Production: Bones
• Production: Mahoaku Production Committee

Broadcast & Streaming Information

Broadcast Information

TOKYO MX: Starting July 9th (Tue), every Tuesday from 23:30~
BS11: Starting July 9th (Tue), every Tuesday from 23:00~
AT-X: Starting July 9th (Tue), every Tuesday from 22:45~
*Repeat broadcasts every Thursday at 10:45~ / every Monday at 16:45~
*Broadcast times are subject to change.

Streaming Information

The opening theme 'Unfinished Rendezvous' is a song by Lezel, and the ending theme 'It's Always Better When We're Together' is performed by Mira & Shiro Yoru (Yūki Ono & Mai Nakahara). Both themes will be available on various music streaming services starting July 10th (Wed).

As of now, there has been no announcement regarding the streaming of the anime itself, so please check the official website and various social media for the latest information.

Conclusion

"Once, Magical Girls and Evil Were Enemies" captivates many anime fans with its unique story and charming characters woven by magical girls and villains. Why not dive into the world of new anime this summer? We hope it will be a work that remains in your hearts.

Be sure to check the official anime website and various social media to get the latest information. Prepare to immerse yourself in the world of "Once, Magical Girls and Evil Were Enemies" and enjoy the broadcast and streaming!

©Kokoa Fujiwara/SQUARE ENIX・Mahoaku Production Committee

Official 'Mahoaku' Anime Website

Official 'Mahoaku' Anime X

Just Moments Away from Broadcast! Harley Quinn Battles in Another World! "Isekai Suicide Squad" Opening Preview Released!

The opening video of "Isekai Suicide Squad," which was pre-released on YouTube, features a distinctive scream scene by Harley Quinn. In this animated adaptation of the DC Comics series, new villainous cast members have been revealed. Yoji Ueda voices Ratcatcher, Yoshitada Otsuka as Thinker, Shizuka Ito as Enchantress, and Taro Kiuchi as Killer Croc.

In the first episode of the story, Harley Quinn and the Joker are depicted as terrorizing Gotham City, but Harley is imprisoned after an unexpected attack by Katana. Six months later, Harley is taken out of prison by Director Amanda of A.R.G.U.S and joins villains such as Deadshot, Clayface, and Peacemaker on a secret mission armed with bombs.

The opening video of "Isekai Suicide Squad,"

"Isekai Suicide Squad" unfolds an adventure where villains like Harley Quinn, Deadshot, Peacemaker, Clayface, and King Shark are sent to another world. The series is directed by Eri Nagata, with series composition and screenplay by Tappei Nagatsuki and Eiji Umehara, original character design by Akira Amano, and animation production by WIT STUDIO. The opening theme is "Another World" by Tomoyasu Hotei, and the ending theme is "Go-Getters" by VTuber Mori Calliope. The broadcast is scheduled to start on July 5th on TOKYO MX and others.

© & TM DC ©2024 Warner Bros. Japan LLC

For more information, visit the official anime website of "Isekai Suicide Squad" at https://suicidesquad-isekai.com/.

'Baki Hanma vs. Kengan Ashura' - The Ultimate Martial Arts Battle! Exclusively Streaming on Netflix!

In June 2024, a moment long-awaited by fans of martial arts anime has arrived. 'Baki Hanma' and 'Kengan Ashura', two colossal anime franchises, have crossed over, with exclusive streaming starting on Netflix. This series features the strongest warriors from each work battling it out in a best-of-three match in an underground arena.

First Match - Kaoru Hanayama vs. Serpentine

Kaoru Hanayama, an especially popular character from 'Kengan Ashura', faces a new challenger named Serpentine. This match was a clash of power and technique, with Hanayama's overwhelming strength against Serpentine's cunning tactics. While Hanayama's hammer punch excited the crowd, Serpentine's counterattacks brought the match to a tense pitch.

Second Match - Jack Hammer vs. Raian Kure

The second match saw Jack Hammer, Baki Hanma's arch-enemy, confront Raian Kure from 'Kengan Ashura'. The match captivated the audience with Jack's beast-like ferocity intermingling with Raian's calm and calculated tactics. As both fighters' pride and determination clashed, it was a battle you couldn't take your eyes off until the very end.

Third Match - Baki Hanma vs. Ohma Tokita

And to climax, the protagonist of 'Baki Hanma', Baki himself, faced off against Ohma Tokita from 'Kengan Ashura'. This final showdown was the moment when the rivalry built up throughout the series reached its peak. The battle woven by Baki's unparalleled martial arts sense and Ohma's strategy was truly breathtaking, sure to captivate not just fans but anyone's heart.

“Baki Hanma vs. Kengan Ashura Opening Video”

Thoughts

The quality of the animation is extremely high, with detailed depictions of the characters' expressions and movements, beautifully recreating the charm of the original manga. The intensity of the battle scenes, in particular, is overwhelming, making it impossible to look away from the screen. While there are some parts where the anime has its own interpretation and arrangement compared to the original, these add a new appeal. However, I have many more favorite characters, so I wish they would feature more characters, not just the famous ones. Well, I guess it turned out this way due to time constraints...

Conclusion

'Baki Hanma vs. Kengan Ashura' can be said to be a new milestone in martial arts anime. It's a must-watch not only for fans of the original works but also for anime fans in general. The anticipation for future developments is high, and the impact this anime will have on the fan community is immeasurable. Let's continue to watch over this heated battle.

© Keisuke Itagaki (Akita Shoten) / Baki Hanma Production Committee © 2023 Sandrovich Yabako, Daromeon, Shogakukan / Kengan Association 2

Official Netflix Site for 'Baki Hanma vs. Kengan Ashura'