Lazarus: Shinichiro Watanabe Delivers Another Epic Anime Experience!

Shinichiro Watanabe, a renowned director in the anime community, has made a name for himself through his outstanding work on acclaimed series like Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, Space Dandy, Carole & Tuesday, and others. These shows are revered by many as some of the finest in the anime genre, and it’s even more remarkable when considering how distinct each project has been from the others. In terms of mood, characters, setting, and other aspects, none of Watanabe’s directed works appear to resemble any of the others. This is why Lazarus piqued interest immediately upon its announcement.

Lazarus appears to share similarities with Cowboy Bebop more than any of Watanabe’s previous works. This is noticeable not just through the larger ensemble cast who are united for a specific mission (each character has their own history and reasons for being part of it), but also in promotional materials that deliberately echo the iconic anime. This similarity extends to its opening theme, which seems designed to foster these Cowboy Bebop comparisons. However, despite all this, Lazarus ultimately stands as a distinct experience, offering a clear objective that makes it resonate more effectively within today’s anime scene.

The anime titled “Lazarus” is striking at the perfect moment, and in an environment ideal for its success. In a future timeline, a scientist named Dr. Skinner invents a drug called Hapna, a wonder drug capable of instantly curing all diseases. This discovery alters the world significantly as humanity can finally overcome their health issues, but this miracle comes with a lethal twist. Three years after most of the globe consumes the drug, Dr. Skinner discloses that it contains a hidden ingredient that terminates life three years post-usage. However, there’s a means to escape this grim fate before it leads to global annihilation.

In approximately thirty days, Dr. Skinner warns that those who took the Hapna drug will begin to perish, but whoever locates him first can uncover the key to reversing the drug’s effects and potentially saving mankind. To achieve this mission, a covert organization called Lazarus has been assembled, with Axel Gilberto, a notorious character known for escaping prisons for amusement, among its members. As every member of Lazarus faces imminent death, they unite in their quest to save the world.

For fans of Watanabe’s past creations, the striking difference in Lazarus lies in its tightly woven central plot. Unlike previous works, this story has a literal countdown ticking with each episode, and every installment propels the narrative forward. Although it’s not unprecedented in Watanabe’s portfolio to have a main storyline, Lazarus’ relentless focus on this aspect sets it apart as each episode lays out a unique segment towards its ultimate conclusion while gradually developing its characters.

In this series, we won’t just have standalone episodes unrelated to the overall narrative, as seen in shows like Cowboy Bebop. Instead, each episode will delve into the unique personalities of our group members while also progressing towards Dr. Skinner. However, not every lead they follow will bring them closer to their goal, but it’s a balance that keeps the story engaging and moving forward.

As a die-hard fan, I must confess that the narrowed focus towards the finale might not resonate with everyone, given Watanabe’s legendary classic episodes often delve into unexpected detours or side plots from the main storyline. However, in place of those exploratory journeys, Lazarus provides a more condensed and focused experience overall. While the series certainly spends ample time developing its characters, it’s the pulse-pounding action sequences that truly set it apart – especially during the first five episodes (kindly provided by Adult Swim prior to release). With each episode propelled forward by a relentless ticking clock and an intensifying narrative, the action scenes have been expertly amplified to match the anticipation.

Observing closely, I can’t help but notice a striking change in the way characters are portrayed under the guidance of Chad Stahelski, the director behind John Wick. The alteration is palpable and sets it apart from Keanu Watanabe’s previous works. While the action was always robust, there’s now an increased sense of realism that beautifully juxtaposes the futuristic elements of the storyline.

In Axel’s debut, for example, we witness him masterfully escaping from prison using parkour techniques, and his distinctive, heavily-legged fighting style lends a unique flair to his character as the lead. Each member of Lazarus moves distinctively, even in the most subtle of scenes. This transformation isn’t confined to action sequences alone; it permeates throughout the narrative.

As I delve into this captivating series, I find myself in awe of the unique fluidity that’s somewhat eerily lifelike. Adapting to its pace is a slight adjustment, but oh boy, is it worth it! Axel’s movements are swift and electrifying, making each fight scene a spectacle to behold. To truly appreciate every minute detail, I find myself pausing frame by frame.

Kudos to the brilliant minds at Sola Entertainment and MAPPA for breathing life into this series in such an extraordinary way. However, it’s a bit unusual to note that at times, the fluidity borders on the wild. It’s not a deal-breaker, just something you’ll need to acclimate to. It’s a double-edged sword, with its incredible strengths occasionally overshadowing some of the weaker moments. But then, when it comes to that mind-blowing elevator fight, all those minor quibbles fade away!

Lazarus exudes an unmistakable flair in every scene, leaving viewers eager to decipher the unique narrative unfolding against the backdrop of contemporary political strife. This gripping tale of a pharmaceutical catastrophe offers glimpses of a future teeming with optimism, yet it doesn’t shy away from depicting the ruthless reality for those who fall short of societal expectations. With its distinct voice, Lazarus sets itself apart from Cowboy Bebop comparisons.

Lazarus appears to reference Watanabe’s past events but instead uses this concept as a starting point to deliver a more concentrated narrative that fans can’t wait to explore further. This approach is striking a significant chord, generating even more discussion once the anime concludes, and it seamlessly complements Watanabe’s impressive collection of classic works. The hot streak remains unbroken with another exceptional show added to the lineup.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Lazarus makes its debut on Adult Swim this coming Saturday, April 5th, at midnight within the Toonami block. Following that, fresh episodes will be available for streaming on Max the very next day.

2025-04-02 02:40

Read More