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Madhouse isn’t just a mere name, but it has weight to it. The animation studio has given us some of the massive hits over the decades. From Death Note to Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, their works are beyond impressive.

Then there’s One Punch Man that has its cherished fanbase, come to think of it. One of the reasons behind this is the Director, Shingo Natsume. He graced the industry with his brilliance, and his new project seeks to outdo this.

His collaboration with Madhouse for the upcoming movie seems favorable. It looks promising and refreshing, but there might be several reasons why this might exceed the audience’s expectations. How so? Well, let’s unpack this!

Madhouse and One Punch Man director announces new flick

If there’s one word to describe Madhouse, it’s versatile. The studio has worked on an array of projects over the years.

Alright, fellow anime fans, we need to talk about One Punch Man. Do you remember when this series came out of nowhere in 2015 and completely knocked other anime out with how incredible it looked? That first season was just gold. Madhouse went all out on the animation. Each punch had weight, every fight had energy, and even the comedy bits landed like perfect jabs to the funny bone.

And then, of course, Season 2 happened. And yeah, we’re still bitter. We’re now looking at an October 2025 release for Season 3, yes, it actually is happening, but guess what? Not much animated stuff is out yet from the upcoming session. Let’s dive a little deeper.

One Punch Man Season 2 hurt, like, really bad

Alright, let’s take a step back. When One Punch Man Season 2 was released in 2019, everyone was totally hyped. We were begging for those crazy fights, some more back-story,...

There are just some anime we can’t help but rewatch. They are often short and sweet series, some with rich lore, while others are just comforting. For me, it’s Bungo Stray Dogs, Haikyuu!!, and The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. I often revisit various arcs in One Piece, too, to catch new details. Although I knew the events, I couldn’t stop my tears.

There’s another anime series that gives the same effect without being 1000+ episodes, and it’s Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. One season is longer than the average season, with 28 episodes, but each is worth your undivided attention. Fans will always find Frieren’s journey an emotional rollercoaster, no matter how many times they watch it.

What makes Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End the perfect anime to rewatch, aside from having a short number of episodes? It’s a rare series that makes us tear up from the start,...

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Stick is a sports comedy-drama series created by Jason Keller. The Apple TV+ series follows Pryce Cahill, a washed-up former professional golfer now working at a sporting goods store and struggling financially after a divorce. He soon discovers a young prodigy in the game and decides to train him, and in the process, he falls back in love with the game. Stick stars Owen Wilson, Peter Dager, Lilli Kay, Mariana Treviño, and Marc Maron. So, if you loved the passionate sports drama, hilarious feel-good comedy, and likable characters in Stick, here are some similar shows you should check out next.

Ted Lasso (Apple TV+ & Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Apple TV+

Ted Lasso is a sports comedy-drama series co-created by Jason Sudeikis, Bill Lawrence, Brendan Hunt, and Joe Kelly. Based on a few comedy sketches from NBC Sports,...

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is the perfect Shonen anime to watch when one is bored and tired of the typical series constituting the genre. The narrative structure of the series is quite unique and refreshing. It reflects human nature of seeing time as fleeting while at the same time grieving its loss.

Similarly, Frieren grieves the loss of time and connections, but only when it’s too late. Humans never have enough time for achieving everything they want, but Frieren does. And this series shows how the passage of time affects Frieren differently than humans.

Frieren’s perception of time alters the narrative of the Shonen anime

The passage of time is an important theme in Frieren. The protagonist has a unique perception of time since she is close to being an immortal. Having lived for over a millennium, she sees decades as brief moments. Her huge lifespan makes it...

Rejoice, One-Punch Man anime fans! After a string of disappointing updates, there's finally good news to report about the upcoming Season 3 for the anime TV series, scheduled for October 2025.

Viz Media, one of the leading English distributors and producers of anime and manga in North America, has officially acquired the rights to One-Punch Man Season 3. The new season of One-Punch Man comes six years after Season 2, which premiered in April 2019. J.C. Staff, the Japanese animation studio that took over for Madhouse after Season 1, is returning for Season 3.

After a 6-Year Wait, One-Punch Man Season 3 Is Almost Here 🚨 Viz has acquired #onepunchman Season 3Saitama is returning soon, so don't sleep on your training!More info to come 👊 pic.twitter.com/Ni5fDlL4hO— Viz Media (@VIZMedia) May 27, 2025

Although Viz Media previously handled Seasons 1-2 of One-Punch Man, its history with the series didn't guarantee ownership of Season 3. Viz...

The 9th Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2025 was hosted at the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa in Tokyo, Japan, on the 25th of May. Many dignitaries from different parts of the entertainment realm gathered to witness who would be claiming the accolades this year.

Multiple films and original anime have gained recognition through the awards, especially Look Back and Ninja Kamui. With its brilliant storytelling, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End received the Best Director award, given to Keiichiro Saito from Madhouse.

Here’s the entire category list with the contenders and the winners:

9th Crunchyroll Awards list of nominees and winners

As many expected, Solo Leveling, with its vast popularity, claimed multiple laurels, including the Anime of the Year, Best Main Character, and Best Action awards.

Even after it left its mark on anime a few years back, no anime has been able to meet the level of Demon Slayer, with its Hashira Training...

Redice Studio has been dropping some absolute bangers, turning their amazing webtoons into anime masterpieces like Solo Leveling. The anime adaptation from A-1 Pictures had Sung Jin-woo leveling up like crazy, with some of the best action and art.

It even got 116k likes on Crunchyroll, and there is a huge fan base singing the praises of those stellar visuals and storytelling! And not just Solo Leveling, Redice Studio has got another webtoon masterpiece under its belt, i.e., Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint (Orv), known for its unique blend of compelling storytelling, meta-narrative elements, and relatable themes.

Aniplex and Crunchyroll have taken up the adaptation duties for an Orv anime, which we might get to see this year. Crazy, right? But wait, Redice has got more gems in their catalogue that need the anime treatment too.

1. Nano Machine

Nano Machine follows Cheon Yeo-Woo, a martial arts underdog who randomly gets a sci-fi nano machine upgrade.

Atsuko Ishizuka, the director behind anime shows such as A Place Further than the Universe and the hit isekai series No Game No Life, recently opened up about her experiences working on the latter -- and "breaking the rules" in established development in the process.

The image that may likely spring to mind for many fans when thinking about anime is a standard shonen title, and that's at least partially due to studios typically following standardized 'rules' for design, color, and the general look and feel of any given series. Many long-time fans of the medium can therefore look at a screenshot from an anime and immediately guess its genre or target audience. However, a recent interviewwith No Game No Life director Atsuko Ishizuka saw her discuss how she managed to break a lot of these rules while working on the show.

No Game No Life Director 'Broke the...

It has been announced that the next anime movie by director Mamoru Hosoda will be landing in U.S. theaters on Dec. 12, 2025. Scarlet is being co-produced by Studio Chizu, Nippon TV and Crunchyroll parent company Sony Pictures, with Sony handling global distribution of the movie outside of Japan.

The movie focuses on a brave princess who transcends time and space, with the film set to "overturn the image of Studio Chizu and Hosoda's previous work." A new trailer for the film, which was made available on Studio Chizu's official X (formerly Twitter) account, makes it clear that Scarlet will look and feel very different from previous movies handled by the director, whose works also include the likes of Summer Wars and Mirai. Not only does the animation appear to utilize some 3D, but the setting is also strikingly unique from Hosoda's previous titles.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time Director...

Horror anime has hardly managed to nail that feeling of eerie, bone-chilling atmosphere that the manga establishes. Though classics such as Perfect Blue and Higurashi: When They Cry have made the transition from manga to anime or on the big screen with ease, many adaptations have failed.

One of the most anticipated yet ultimately disappointing cases is Uzumaki, a long-awaited adaptation of Junji Ito. Riddled with production problems, its continuous delays had many fans doubting it could do justice to the manga’s striking, nightmarish panels.

The Summer Hikaru Died Trailer [Credit: CyGames Pictures, Netflix]

On the other hand, The Summer Hikaru Died may be well-positioned to do what Uzumaki hasn’t. Horror anime fans have been in anticipation for something new, and with its emotional depth, slow-burning dread, and themes of possession and loss, the anime adaptation of Mokumokuren’s story could be it.

Anime adaptation of The Summer Hikaru Died...

Netflix’s Devil May Cry might not have been the greatest addition to the franchise, but it was good nonetheless. Of course, there are many criticisms about with people pointing out loopholes in the plot or overall changes in character. But the one thing that has been bugging everyone is probably Dante’s character design.

Anyone who follows the Dmc universe will be able to tell that the latest iteration of the character is far removed from the others. Adi Shankar’s animation did not suit everyone’s tastes. And the protagonist in particular invited bad reviews, and that is exactly why season 2 has a lot to make up for.

Dante’s character design in Adi Shankar’s Devil May Cry is debatable

Netflix’s Devil May Cry‘s Dante is a young adult, and Adi Shankar had promised fans would see him grow up as the story progressed. This...

Devil May Cry fans are torn over which animated adaptation was better, and for now, the ball is in Madhouse’s court. Netflix’s version did have updated visuals, but lacked the gothic aesthetic, which was undoubtedly more like Devil May Cry.

However, the little glimpses we got into the second season of Netflix’s Devil May Cry might just turn the tide in its favor. Dante’s updated look, with his iconic long hair and new outfit, while actually using Ebony and Ivory, has already hyped fans up for the second season.

The funniest part about the newfound excitement is that it wasn’t a separate Netflix sneak peek; it was from the music video for Evanescence’s Afterlife. The poster for the second season teased Dante’s hair, but the music video featured him in full action. Will Devil May Cry: The Animation be dethroned?

The second season...

Jin‘s second solo project has been revealed! – Billboard Donald Trump is being sued by an Ivy League college! – Celebitchy Ashley Graham just made her Broadway debut in Chicago – People Daredevil: Born Again‘s shocking season finale explained – Screen Rant Legendary showman and producer Jeff Beacher has announced Beacher Fest 2025, which will take place across two days in May at the iconic Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood. Daytime events include a health and wellness summit, with The Biggest Loser resident doctor Dr. Robert Huizenga confirmed to speak. You can also expect the unparalleled glamour, thrill, and excitement that made Beacher’s Madhouse a cultural phenomenon. Head to BeachersMadhouse.com to sign up for access.

A fantasy anime that hits the mark with impressive animation, plot, and characters is rare. In this case, Frieren happens to be just the story that stands out in many aspects. The offbeat protagonist, her journey, and her life lessons add to the compelling narrative.

What makes it even better is Madhouse Studio’s finesse in animation. The visuals and colors offer a surreal and enchanting landscape. It’s truly immersive and engaging, albeit the initial slow-paced episodes. To top it off, the series is setting a benchmark for other shonen anime.

Frieren, Fern, and Stark in the anime | Credit: Madhouse

In other words, it is set to sweep the floor with the Crunchyroll 2025 Awards. This is true for its whopping nominations across different categories. Be it design or music, it lives up to its masterpiece status. The Anime of the Year is one such example, but what makes it so special?...

Most Shonen protagonists are shaped by tragedy. Whether it’s Naruto’s loneliness due to the loss of his family, Goku’s lost heritage, or Eren Yeager’s traumatic fate, the tragedies and struggles that the protagonists face fuel their journeys.

In case we see a character going down a bad route, it is because they have been hurt before, leading them to forsake their values and beliefs. Be it vengeance or anger, it always stems from past events.

Ryuk from Death Note. [Credit: Madhouse]

But Death Note took a completely different approach. The protagonist, Light Yagami, had everything going for him, yet he turned into the most notorious killer, Kira.

Light’s fall wasn’t brought about by tragedy

Light Yagami wasn’t a broken boy who was changed, twisted, and awakened to a harsh world; it is quite the opposite. He was a boy who was raised with love,...

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End isn’t just a story about an elf and her adventures; it’s a meaningful exploration of valuing the time we spend with our loved ones. And to perfectly present that, what could have been a better way than basing the story on an elf?

The mythical creatures that elves are represent the passage of time itself. Due to their insanely long lifespan, they often become witnesses to history, but they usually remember past incidents as mere occurrences. It becomes hard for them to preserve the emotional tranquility of the characters involved in history.

Himmel’s statue from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End | Credits: Madhouse

But here comes Himmel, the so-called Hero in this series, who defeated the demon king with his party members, whom we all get to love so much, and Frieren was just one of them. However, defeating the demon...

The world has changed to a more fast-paced environment. People are hustling, and no one has time for slow burners anymore. This is why Shonen anime with non-stop action sequences have become so famous. But Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, an anime known for its slow pacing, has somehow made it to the top of the My Anime List.

While there is a small section of fans who do complain about the pacing, everyone else is happy to tag along, and even those who complain find it hard not to follow the series. So what exactly makes the series so unputdownable?

Frieren’s slow pacing is a blessing | Credits: Madhouse

Is it the reminder of just how fleeting human lives are? Or is it the calming and relaxing tale of Frieren? Let’s discover what makes Frieren‘s pacing so admirable.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End provides a rush-free story in a...

When anime fans watch the Solo Levelinganime, they will mainly focus on the Op protagonist Sung Jinwoo himself. But even when Jinwoo fights as a solo leveler warrior, he might need some backup, and he can't ask for better backup than the S-ranked hunter Cha Hae-in. Cha is one of Korea's very best hunters, a tough and capable monster slayer who is at the top of her game. She is also the best female character in Solo Leveling so far.

Still, even if Cha is a fun character to watch and a terrific hunter, anime fans have seen better female warriors in similar series. For all her powerful skills and cool armor, Cha hasn't been developed very deeply, and she doesn't feel memorable or emotionally resonant just yet. Until the Solo Leveling anime can push Cha to the next level as a character, anime fans can point to other female fighters with cooler skills,...

More often than not, a fantastic anime is an adaptation of an equally good manga or light novel; such is the case for most of the best-known series of today. Dragon Ball, Death Note, and Solo Leveling are just a few of the handful of great anime with fans who have fallen in love with the stories told on paper and ink long before they hit the TV screen.

The animation studios that adapted such adored series are also responsible for the greatest anime originals of all time. Sunrise, for example, has created the most famous sci-fi anime in history. There are also writers and directors, such as Gen Urobuchi and Shinichiro Watanabe, who’ve become anime legends for their hand in producing iconic anime originals. All this to say: just because it didn't come from a previously loved manga or light novel doesn't mean it shouldn't be given a chance.

More and more Japanese animation studios are coming out with original series, but most anime are based on successful manga. While there are countless publishers who’ve serialized some fantastic series, many of the most popular anime of the past few decades have originated from the printing press of Shueisha’s weekly manga magazine, Shonen Jump.

Shonen Jump is currently the most well-known manga magazine to date, and it’s still in the process of printing some hit series like Dandadan and Kaiju no. 8. With these hit series comes the debut of some truly unforgettable characters. The most iconic anime characters—both old and new—have risen to stardom after being popularized in Shonen Jump’s black and white pages.

Death Note's Light Yagami Will Forever be Shonen Anime's Darkest Protagonist Death Note, Shonen Jump 2004 Issue no. 1 Image via Madhouse

Death Note is one of the most well-known and referenced series in modern anime.

Kodansha announced plans to bring Hitoshi Iwaaki’s Parasyte manga back to print in a new way. Following the previous release of color versions, new editions are planned that include Iwaaki’s original black and white art, as well as an updated translation, new covers and new interior design. The full original series will be collected in eight volumes starting this fall. The updated translation, lettering and size mirror that of the Parasyte Full Color Collection . Related: Parasyte: The Grey Live-Action Series Reveals New Teaser The Parasyte manga ran from 1989 to 1994, and inspired a pair of live-action films, Madhouse’s 2014 Parasyte -the maxim- anime and director Yeon Sang-ho’s live-action Parasyte: The Grey series. Synopsis: In the world of Parasyte: Teenager Shinichi wakes up one night to discover a creature crawling under the skin of his right arm. This is a Parasite, a creature that takes control of a...

With a number of popular anime being part of fans’ watchlists, a few hidden gems get lost in the shuffle. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth is one such anime that has been somewhat criminally underrated. Even though it was released back in October 2024, this 25-episode anime television adaptation of Uoto’s historical manga has since been largely overlooked by fans and critics.

Rafal in a still from Orb: On the Movements of the Earth anime | Credit: Madhouse

But what makes this anime so underrated? The answer is pretty simple: it’s the stunning art style, great historical themes, and obviously a great story. Not to forget the beautiful visual storytelling adding another layer of intrigue to the show. Despite all this, Orb did not receive enough attention, and has been quite far away from anime fans’ radar.

Why Orb: On the Movements of the Earth anime is criminally underrated?...

Every once in a long while, when you’re probably thinking that creativity in the anime industry has died off, and it’s always the same cycle of similar stories with a few minor changes, a series like Orb: On the Movements of the Earth comes along! And you know what? This is the type of story that more people should be aware of and at least give a try because no one wants to miss out on peak, right?

Rafal from Orb: On the Movements of the Earth | Credits: Studio Madhouse

Last year, 2024, was maybe the year of Dandadan or Re: Zero, and everyone seemed to be talking about only them. After all, it’s understandable because they already had pre-existing hype surrounding them even before their release. But Orb just hits different because it’s the kind of story that wouldn’t typically have a massive fan following,...

They don’t call Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Anime of the Year for no reason. It lives up to the hype and standards in many ways, especially with the characters. There’s adventure, action, drama, romance and complexities that are woven within the plot, but there’s a catch.

Aura the Guillotine in the series | Credit: Madhouse

While it is a landmark anime celebrated for animation and characters, it has its fair share of upsides and downsides. It ties in well with the criticism associated with the series that most fans overlook. However, it is the imperfect perfections that make it stand out on the whole, and here’s why.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a visual masterpiece

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End isn’t a mere anime, but a riveting tale of the journey of an elf. It’s compelling, engaging, and gripping in every sense. But it isn’t...

With Netflix dropping the trailer for its new Devil May Cry animated series, fans of the franchise are excited to see Dante and his friends in an animated medium after several years. With the trailer impressing everyone with its details, fans have started to compare the series with the 2007 anime.

Dante from Netflix’s Devil May Cry | Credits: Netflix

While the 2007 anime by Madhouse had its charms, it left much to be desired. Here, we will talk about 4 major areas that the Netflix series could improve upon, to deliver a better experience to the audience.

1. 2007’s Devil May Cry and its lack of combat Dante driving a car from Devil May Cry (2007) | Credits: Madhouse

While the 2007 anime by Madhouse served as a good adaptation of the franchise, several fans criticized the series for its lack of action. For a series based on a demon hunter who hunts devils for a living,...

Anime is famous for its incredible diversity, aiming not just to entertain the viewers but also intellectually stimulate and provoke thought with some of its more complex plots. Despite being best known for action flicks and engaging yet straightforward shonen anime epics, anime offers no shortage of more elaborate stories that captivate audiences with their experimental structure, artistic distinctiveness, and narrative intricacy.

Such anime series can be equally enticing and alienating, often refusing to give the viewers clear answers or guide them through their labyrinthine chronicles. However, many such titles open up differently on a rewatch, and experiencing them multiple times is worthwhile to make out their enigmas. These complex anime films and series might not be the easiest to comprehend, yet their virtues shine through when reviewed more than once.

Texhnolyze Is a Difficult Yet Worthwhile Cyberpunk Anime Thriller Streaming on Apple TVImage via Madhouse

A blood-curdling tale that exposes humanity’s most cruel,...

Devil May Cry deserves a great anime and by all means, it did get one in 2007. Netflix, however, is doing its take on the legendary video game series. The producer of Netflix’s Castlevania, Adi Shankar, is the creator of Netflix’s Devil May Cry so this isn’t his first rodeo and there’s some experience there.

Dante from Devil May Cry. [Credit: Netflix]

The graphics will be significantly better than the 2007 Madhouse anime adaptation and it also brags a whole new voice cast. Shankar has plans to extend the animated series into a multi-season arc, similar to Castlevania. This is the only possible way to introduce more characters.

The trailer for Devil May Cry promises a faithful portrayal of Dante, the series’ protagonist. He will be voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch, who originally voiced Nero in the video games. There’s no hint of Nero being involved in the first season.

Unlike many other shonen fights, Frieren: Beyond Journey End's fight sequences are short and concise. That makes them more exciting in many ways because any attack could be a warrior's last and could end quickly. Some of the best fights in Frieren last only a few blows, but the emotion behind each attack makes them compelling. With Frieren's second season set to release in 2026, fans can look forward to more beautiful animation to bring manga fights to life.

Considering Frieren is a world-class mage and the protagonist of the story, most of Frieren: Beyond Journeys End's fights revolve around magic and mages. However, it's more than just firing spells; the fights in Frieren often take a very physical turn, showing the speed, skill and quick thinking required to become a mage as powerful as Frieren. The anime adaptation has continually done justice to Frieren's fights, making them even more...

Hunter x Hunteris known for many things: its intricate storytelling, memorable characters, and especially those incredibly creative yet equally confusing Nen abilities. This series established arguably the best power system in anime with Nen. This system is deeply comprised of varied abilities that often come with strict conditions and requirements that must be met in order to use them.

A lot of these Nen abilities show off Yoshihiro Togashi’s imagination, whether it's Hisoka's Bungee Gum or an ability that makes the user look pregnant. Throughout all of the creative Nen abilities this legendary series sees throughout its run, there are some that somehow go under the radar despite their potential. Hunter x Hunter has several underrated Nen abilities that can either come in handy in everyday life or, in the right hands, could turn someone into a major player.

Leorio’s Remote Punch Ability Proves He’s More Than...

The world of Hunter x Hunteris one of moral grays, with few true heroes, and many complex, deeply flawed figures. More than anything else, though, it's a setting packed with unforgivable monsters. Regardless of what their motivations or tragic backstory may be, or any redeeming qualities they may have, there is no forgiving what most of Gon Freecss and Kurapika Kurta's enemies have done.

Hunter x Hunter is among the darkest battle shonen anime, and the evil acts committed by its worst villains exemplify why. Mass murder, genocide, familial abuse, and so much more have been enacted throughout the series, and the crimes performed have only grown darker in nature as the manga has progressed. None of these villains have ever sought any form of forgiveness or redemption, and no one would ever grant them these things if they did.

Hisoka Morrow Is Hunter x Hunter's Most Infamous VIllain...

Reader, you have been lied to! Film history is littered with unfairly maligned classics, whether critics were too eager to review the making of rather than the finished product, or they suffered from underwhelming ad campaigns or general disinterest. Let’s revise our takes on some of these films from wrongheaded to the correct opinion.

When “Madhouse,” a comedy about a happily married couple besieged by out of control house guests, was released in early 1990, it met with immediate hostility from critics. How hostile were they? So hostile that “Madhouse” is currently in the select group of movies sitting uncomfortably at 0% on Rotten Tomatoes, not a single positive review to its name.

The irony is that not only is “Madhouse” not bad, it’s great. And not only great, but all-time great, a comedy so flawless in its construction and so precise in its timing that it ranks alongside the best work of Howard Hawks,...

Frieren is definitely a unique mage who has an undying love for magic. She understands the core philosophy of spells and treats each and every one of them as something special, even if it is not.

Frieren from Frieren Beyond Journey’s End [Credits: Madhouse]

However, as one of the strongest mages ever seen in her time, one would think Frieren would rely mostly on strong spells. But that is not the case; Frieren prefers simple magic that has very little to do with combat.

But, perhaps, this innate understanding and respect towards all spells is what makes Frieren so formidable. Now that she has her own apprentice, Frieren imparts the same kind of knowledge to Fern as well.

The strength of simplicity in Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Solar Dragon from Frieren Beyond Journey’s End [Credits: Madhouse]

The reason why Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is completely different from any other...

Any action-oriented anime needs an outstanding final battle to end the story on a strong note, and plenty of finished manga have delivered on that front. In some cases, a manga's final fight is equally strong in anime form, while some action manga have an incomplete anime adaptation or never got one at all. Manga readers tend to get a more satisfying experience with any action story, being able to read the entire adventure to the end.

A good action manga series needs more than powerful techniques to create a great final battle, however. It's also important for the manga to create intense and compelling stakes, making it perfectly clear what horrible things will happen if one side or the other loses. Those final fights also benefit from strong character drama, deep themes, and perhaps some lingering questions or moral ambiguity to encourage manga readers to keep pondering the ending...

The 2020s have been an interesting era for the anime world so far. Shifting from the apparent dominance of shonen and isekai anime, the last five years have surprised viewers with their diversity. The new-gen titles have transcended the limitations of genre appeal and offered stories that have hooked fans across the board. Whether it’s a slice-of-life anime like Skip and Loafer or a historical drama like The Apothecary Diaries, the 2020s have proved that every genre has the potential to stand out.

Besides the apparent success of already booming franchises like Solo Leveling, Demon Slayer, Kaiju No. 8, and more, there are anime that have deeply impacted the industry and the audience with the novelty of their themes and premise. From underrated gems to recent breakout titles, these anime represent the new decade.

Dandadan Has Wowed Viewers With Its Phenomenal Thematic Transition Stream Dandadan on NetflixImage via Science...

Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is a fantasy anime unlike any other. It forgoes a more traditional focus on combat and opts to tell a very personal story about adventurers traveling together. However, that doesn't mean that there isn't any action at all. Frieren features its fair share of monstrous obstacles and shows off how strong all the characters are as they face wandering dangers.

The strongest characters aren't necessarily the oldest or most experienced. Sometimes, characters are strong because they work at their crafts tirelessly – honing their skills with each encounter. Characters of various ages and races are among the strongestFrieren characters.

Updated on February 23, 2025 by Robbie Robinson: Really, there's a plethora of overpowered characters in Frieren. Because of that, the battles end up being perfectly suspenseful and exciting. While Frieren seems like an easy choice for the top spot, there are actually some characters that are regarded as being much stronger.

Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is a series that’s as unassuming as its titular character. Despite emerging as one of the standout series of 2023, there's nothing that immediately stands out about it that would indicate what makes it better than almost any other series out right now. Like Frieren herself, the series doesn’t look like much at first, but those who watch it soon learn that there’s a strange power beneath the surface.

Like continuing a story beyond the end of the hero's journey, Frieren picks up where most other anime series leave off. Frieren doesn't avoid popular tropes, nor does it only aim to subvert expectations for shock value. Instead, Frieren embraces everything that makes anime special and then pushes beyond it all to tell a story that’s just as timeless as the series' famous elven mage.

Updated on February 21, 2025 by Robbie Robinson: Frieren has,...

The beginning of Frieren can be considered quite unique. While most stories of the same genre begin with the recruitment of a party that would eventually defeat the big bad, Frieren begins after the big bad guy has already been defeated. It follows the adventure of an immortal elf who was once a part of the hero’s journey.

The selection of an immortal elf who is disinterested in a lot of things as a protagonist is unique. She is actively involved in major events but never likes to assert herself in the situations. The franchise as a whole has an Mc like no other.

Frieren has a protagonist who would otherwise be a side-character In the world of Frieren, the hero is actually Himmel | Credits: Madhouse

Let’s take a look at Frieren’s character. She is not the hero of the story. In fact, in the eyes of the people of the world,...

Sci-fi anime are typically known for their thrilling action and dark themes. Although, just because they are supposed to feature fictional scenarios, that doesn’t mean they are exempt from romance. Many of the relationships in these anime series can even be described as the best sci-fi romances of all time.

The most romantic and loving sci-fi romances are endearing and enticingly romantic. Each of these couples displays unique dynamics that audiences can’t help but love. The couple's feelings are palpable. The best of the best sci-fi couples help each other navigate the unbelievable scenarios happening around them and love each other no matter what.

RelatedThis Upcoming 2025 Anime Could Be One of the Best Sci-Fi Romance of the Year

The upcoming 2025 anime adaptation of Kowloon Generic Romance offers something for everyone, making it unique and fresh among slice of life shows.

Zero Two & Hiro Vow To Even Be Together...

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End has its roots in many learning philosophical moments. Of these, death and loss are a huge part. Yet, the series has managed to keep its sense of danger when the characters are in a lurch.

Himmel from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. [Credit: Madhouse]

However, there seem to be no indications of the deaths of the humans against the demons. Especially so that the series would actually resort to killing off its main characters, who are at the core of the narrative.

Usually, many series lose their appeal and the sense of thrill in the battle when the protagonist and his group manage to always get out of troublesome battles and situations without suffering substantial losses.

Frieren manages to balance the fear of death to raise the stakes

Even talking about the deaths on-screen, they have been limited to demons, who are often shown as villains or threats...

Yoshihiro Togashi created one of the best Shonen manga in existence and the popularity of Hunter x Hunter is proof of it. Despite the series being on several indefinite breaks due to the mangaka’s health issues, fans still patiently wait for new chapters. One of the most attractive features of the series is its refusal to stick to fan service or fan-pleasing tactics.

Yoshihiro Togashi uses his creative freedom in Hunter x Hunter | Credits: Madhouse

Hunter x Hunter goes beyond expectations and to date it continues to surprise fans with its vast worldview and twists. The characters are natural and go through plenty of development. As it turns out, this might be a result of Togashi’s refusal to stick to the norms.

Yoshihiro Togashi does not give a flying f**k about scrutiny from fans Yoshihiro Togashi refuses to care about fan criticism | Credits: Madhouse

Every mangaka goes...

There are very few horror game-to-anime adaptations out there, and none stand out like Corpse Party: Tortured Souls. The horror adventure video game was already a cult classic, but the anime took things to the next level in terms of pushing the boundaries of terror.

In under two hours, Corpse Party: Tortured Souls will make you shiver far more than the new failed Uzumaki adaptation ever will or all 12 episodes of Another.

Corpse Party: Tortured Souls. [Credit: Asread]

The anime adaptation does not play around with gore and the sheer terror it wants to inflict on its audience. It’s not for the faint of heart one bit. Even fans of Made in Abyss might not be able to withstand the likes of Corpse Party: Tortured Souls.

From the sound design to the grotesque imagery, the video game-to-anime adaptation haunts the viewers even after more than a decade of its release.

The journey of isekai becoming popular was a long one, but the way that the world perceives the isekai genre today makes it feel like it was worth it. The resurgence of the isekai genre is here and it has brought immense success to many anime.

Sora, Shiro, and Zell in No Game No Life | Credits: Madhouse

There are many current isekai series that are extremely popular and well-known, like Re: Zero, Solo Leveling, Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint (Orv), The Beginning After The End (Tbate), and Zenshu. This renewed sense of interest and the surge in popularity is proof that the audience is still captivated by the fantastical worlds.

When isekai anime has intricate storytelling and relatable protagonists thrown into almost unimaginable settings, the fans seem to eat it up and push it to a very high rank.

Isekai is at its peak and ready to thrive

Yet, amidst this revival,...

Be it Space X to PayPal, Elon Musk is a celebrated name in the world of technology and innovations. His ventures have branched out into AI, communications, space science, and much more. According to Forbes, he stands as one of the richest people in the world.

Conversely, he isn’t exempt from controversy. Be it antisemitism or transphobia, his actions have made waves. But his recent gesture had most Internet fans foaming at the mouth.

Ryuk and Light in a still from the anime | Credit: Madhouse

At Donald Trump’s Inauguration, the billionaire stirred the pot by gesturing Nazi remarks. The video took the Internet by storm and had users go at him with all guns blazing.

Interestingly, though, it also reminds us of yet another instance in the anime world. With impunity and powerplay, Light Yagami’s character reverberates realism in more ways than one.

Elon Musk’s Nazi...

Fans of No Game No Life were recently stirred by rumors of a second season of the anime. After being denied a sequel for a decade, the fans happily gobbled up the rumors that were circulating online.

However, the author of the series’ light novels, Yuu Kamiya, quickly addressed the speculation, confirming that the rumors are baseless.

What the author said:

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Kamiya responded to an overwhelming number of direct messages from fans seeking clarification.

“Good morning. I woke up to an absurd number of DMs, but it’s just a baseless rumor, so I’d appreciate it if you didn’t contact me about it,” Kamiya posted, putting an end to the frenzy.

Mashiro Hiiragi, artist of No Game No Life and Yuu Kamiya’s wife, also added her voice to the conversation, humorously pointing out that any legitimate news about the series would not have escaped their notice.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is on the up and up with its soaring popularity. It is a trailblazer in most aspects, especially through its articulately penned characters. Madhouse brings these elements to the fore through their finesse.

This is especially true for the subtle and slow-burn romance in Kanehito Yamada’s series. While most fans fawn over the elf mage and Himmel’s past, they often overlook a key aspect of the series.

Frieren, the Elf Mage in a still from the series | Credit: Madhouse

Other than adventure, Yamada beautifully portrayed relationships in the most wholesome manner. This ties well with the side characters in the series. From rifts to rapture, the series projects different hues of love.

But that is not all considering its decentering of the romance between Himmel and the Elf Mage. The series reigns supreme in capturing the profundities of love and loss in general.

Barring Frieren and Himmel,...

As one of the celebrated psychological thrillers, Death Note is riveting in most aspects. From plot to characters, Tsugumi Ohba left no stone unturned in adding finesse to his manga. But that is not all considering its cult popularity.

Even decades after its premiere, the series stands legendary in the shonen genre. Ohba’s unique spin on morality and death parallels the dark and unsettling aspects of the spirit world. But there’s more to it than meets the eye.

L. Lawliet in a still from the anime | Credit: Madhouse

In his characterization of Light Yagami, Ohba outlined him as a true genius. The scheming and cunning character led to his downfall.

He may not be the best liar after all. Another character from the series rivals his intelligence and his streaks in terms of his meticulousness. This also complements Ohba’s finesse as a mangaka in layering out his characters.

In the recent era of anime, few series capture the essence of the fantasy genre like Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. This year, Frieren stood out as one of the most captivating anime, drawing fans into the poignant journey of the elven mage. Following Season 1’s massive success, Madhouse will return to animate the sequel, as Season 2 has officially been given the green light for production.

Frieren from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. [Credit: Madhouse]

Frieren‘s popularity among the community is no joke, as Season 1 not only took over the internet but surpassed Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood in ranking, solidifying its place as a standout in anime. The anime completely redefines the fantasy genre, focusing on the protagonist’s journey to find meaning and purpose, exploring a story where most series end.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End depicts a heartfelt message that other anime often ignore

Written by Kanehito Yamada and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe,...

One Punch Man is one of the most fun and experimental series in the anime industry. The several mysteries featured in the series give an aura of seriousness and intrigue, which is why One Punch Man is a beloved show by many. Due to its unanswered questions, fans have taken it upon themselves to create theories to satisfy their curiosity. One of them surrounds the fan-favorite cyborg, Genos. His tragic past and relentless pursuit of justice have garnered significant attention.

Genos from One Punch Man. [Credit: Madhouse]

There is, however, one theory that could shatter the entire dynamic of Genos and the main character, Saitama. It could also be one of the greatest plot twists in the anime industry. Fans have rampantly theorised that Genos is the Mad Cyborg, the figure that killed his parents and destroyed his hometown. Almost every fan is convinced that the beloved character might be responsible...

Studio Mir's take on Capcom's Devil May Cry games now has a release window. As revealed during the Geeked Week 2024 festivities, the animated series will hit Netflix in April 2025. Netflix also confirmed that Johnny Yong Bosch will be voicing Dante in the series, and you can catch a new teaser trailer while we wait for more on the official premiere date. Devil May Cry Teaser Trailer Related: Devil May Cry Gets New Animated Series The  Devil May Cry  games first kicked off on PlayStation 2 in 2001. The series was initially created and overseen by game director Hideki Kamiya. Devil May Cry previously inspired an anime adaptation from Madhouse back in 2007. Source: Netflix...