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Fans of Beybladewon't have to wait much longer to see the next batch of Beyblade X episodes available for streaming next month.

Beyblade X has been airing weekly on Disney Xd since its premiere on July 13, 2024, on Saturdays. The first batch of episodes was dropped on streaming services on Oct. 21, 2024, with Hulu covering up through Episode 36 of the first season. This left the regular airing episodes behind for several months, as the first batch of streaming episodes were released while the weekly episodes on TV were only on Episode 15. However, as of March 15, Disney Xd's weekly schedule has finally caught up to the streaming episodes, just in time for the second part of the season to debut online. The new group of Hulu episodes should cover the rest of season one, including Episodes 37 through 51. Beyblade X: Complete Season 1B will arrive on Hulu on April 2, 2025, with the Disney Xd dub ready for viewers to watch.

How else do you start an album than with an Attack on Titan quote? With their opening track “The World is a Cruel Place… And It Is Also Very Beautiful” Europe’s Ankor proves that there is no better way. With brutal breakdowns, intricate storytelling, and catchy choruses, the band’s exciting rise has seen them take the metalcore world by storm, culminating with the release of their Shoganai mini-album in 2024. I got to chat with vocalist Jessie Williams and guitarist David Romeu about how anime permeates into their music, remixing some of their newer songs, creating their own story world, and of course their love of Attack on Titan . Can you tell me a little about your anime journey? How it started and where you are now? Are there genres you gravitate toward? What is your favorite anime series or movie of all time? Jessie : There was a...

All the characters in Fruits Basket are extremely well-written. After all, it would be difficult to do justice to the heavy themes portrayed in the show with flimsy characters. One of the strongest characters in this respect was Shigure Sohma, my beloved. What I loved about Shigure was his multi-faceted personality.

From an orchestrator of chaos to a somewhat reliable adult, he was everything. His skewed motives often surfaced in all his interactions, whether it was the innocent ones with Tohru or the passionate ones with Akito. This made Ayame stand out as Shigure only reciprocated whatever Ayame directed at him.

Ayame and Shigure in Fruits Basket anime | Credits: Studio Tms

It was lovely to see them being silly together, especially with the context of their shared history. I have never seen a better bromance in anime than what these boys shared with each other.

Everything fails in front of...

In the past, fans of anime and manga primarily had to rely on physical releases. Aside from collecting the latest volume of their favorite series, anime magazines such as Shojo Beat would also contain the latest news about popular romance manga; however, this magazine is no longer published in North America. In the current digital age, reading online has grown more and more in popularity, providing a quick and easy way for fans to catch up on the latest chapter for almost any manga.

However, it can be a bit difficult to navigate the sphere of online manga, as there are so many platforms. Thankfully, there are a few staple platforms that contain official translations of different manga, and there are also ways to support the creator of each piece. What works are featured may vary, yet a plethora of popular works are found on each platform.

RelatedThe 30 Best Adult...

Shah Rukh Khan & Ajay Devgan Rift? ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol are one of the most loved on-screen couples in the industry. Together, The duo delivered several blockbuster hits and have been good friends in real life for a long time. However, there were rumours that Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgan were not getting along and might not be friends. Read on to know Kajol’s fantastic response.

In an interview with Abp News in 2015, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol appeared to promote their film Dilwale. During the conversation, Kajol addressed the rumors that the two actors might not be friends or enemies. Kajol said, “I just want to clarify this. Just because they are not friends. Just because Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgan haven’t been seen drinking together at parties, or in any parties together, not doing any movies together, met at any public occasions,...

Other than being a trailblazing gender-bender series Ouran High School Host Club is a novelty in many aspects. While most people laud it for its take on the reverse harem, the series had its fair share of criticisms and controversies.

Keeping it aside, the series has its upsides as well. Its parodying of the cliche shojo culture elements is one such example. But its treatment of a key element of storytelling sets it apart from most modern anime.

Hikau, Kaoru, Tamaki and Haruhi in the anime | Credit: Studio Bones

Most new-age anime challenge stereotypes and conventional tropes in storytelling. In doing so, however, they overlook one of the core aspects of the plot. This also renders them lackluster to some extent.

On the other hand, this shojo anime lacks impressive worldbuilding and power scaling. But it makes up for it through this impressive trait which most series fail to live up to.

A medium praised for its diversity and multifaceted appeal, anime owes much of its popularity to just how much variety of stories it offers to experience. From high-octane action flicks to tender romantic comedies to bone-chilling thrillers, close to every thinkable genre is represented in the medium, with no shortage of unique crossovers and genre-bending examples. However, aside from familiar groupings by theme and genre, anime also emphasizes another prominent classification - demographics. When first discovering the medium, new anime fans soon learn of the major anime demographics - shonen, seinen, shojo, and josei - which help distinguish series based on target age group and gender. However, out of the four, one stands out as the most overlooked and commonly misunderstood in the anime mainstream - josei.

Josei, literally translated to “woman,” is a manga demographic aimed at adult women, in contrast to shojo, which targets younger female audiences. Just...

This February, Crunchyroll will help anime lovers prepare for Valentine's Day with its limited-time "Lovestruck Loot" sale. For a two-week window, the Crunchyroll Store will offer discounted merchandise from several popular franchises, including Ouran High School Host Club, Spy x Family, Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon, Sasaki and Miyano and many more.

A Crunchyroll press release outlined the contents of the sales, which offers discounts of up to 30% off select Blu-ray DVD sets, manga, apparel and anime figurines. One of the sale's highlights is Gem's "Loid and Yor Palm-size (With Gift)" figure set, which features the adult married leads of Spy x Family. The two are depicted in casual sitting poses, giving the impression that they are relaxing together when set side-by-side. From Feb. 4-15, Spy x Family fans will be able to get their hands on the figure set for the slashed price of $97.76. Additionally, the price tag for the Figuarts "Mission Complete!

Spring may be the season for romance, but starting the year off with a new romance anime means we don’t have to wait for love to bloom. Honey Lemon Soda has my affection this time around, if only because it has everything that 15-year-old me loved to watch in shojo anime: a moody but cool blond boy and a shy, unpopular girl as the main leads. I thought I’d grown too old for high school romances, but Honey Lemon Soda manages to reel me in with just a couple of episodes. So, here are my reasons for why you should also start watching this gem of a show! Shojo in Full Swing I’m on the frontlines when it comes to shojo anime, always battling for its recognition in the community while also praying for more anime adaptations. Seeing Honey Lemon Soda claim a spot this season makes me excited because,...

From obscure to a national phenomenon within less than three decades, anime has really snowballed its way to fame. While many factors contributed to such a rise, it is really impossible to imagine such unparalleled success without three of the most iconic names: One Piece, Naruto, and Bleach.

The Big Three of Shonen anime are considered legendary, which, in the early 2000s, managed to stick out and find their paths toward greatness independent of competition.

Hiyori and Zoro from the famous Wano arc in One Piece | Credits: Toei Animation

The name “The Big Three” was well-deserved because of the huge success that brought the Shonen genre to the next level. Not only in the last few years has anime gained momentum, but shojo anime also has a very important role to play in this aspect.

Several iconic shojo titles made a lasting impact in the early 2000s, becoming a defining sensation of the genre.

Over the years, Japanese animation has produced a wide range of romantic stories, from light-hearted comedies to deep dramas. Yet, Fruits Basket remains a shojo masterpiece that has left no viewer disappointed.

Fruits Basket is indeed romantic and heartwarming, containing one of the cutest anime couples ever, Kyo and Tohru. The anime’s tragic yet uplifting narrative has resonated with generations of fans and embodies much of what audiences expect from the shojo genre.

The Sohma family in a still from the series | Credit: Tms Entertainment

The Fruits Basket character lineup is filled with unique, relatable, and lovable characters, each with rich backstories and significant personal growth. However, some characters, like Hiro, struggle to gain the same affection due to their frustrating personality traits, making them unlikable.

Exploring the most controversial and unlikable character in Fruits Basket

Fruits Basket portrays romantic relationships very well, encompassing all the emotions and experiences...

Oshi no Ko was one of 2023's hottest anime titles, taking the anime world by storm with its captivating story and complex characters. Far from the typical idol story, this surprisingly dark series is an honest look inside the world of showbiz, featuring the good, the bad, and the ugly of idol life. Such an incredible title has left many fans hungry for similar stories. Luckily, there are plenty of series available that are sure to satisfy this need.

There are many great anime series similar to Oshi no Ko, spanning over just about every genre imaginable. From classic psychological series like Perfect Blue to beloved shojo dramas such as Nana, these titles are a must-watch for fans of the iconic series. These anime feature very similar tones, themes, and characters, offering a similar experience that fans will love.

Updated on January 15th, 2025 by Chelsea Steele: Debuting during Spring...

When anime fans think about iconic series from the mid-2000s, Ouran High School Host Club inevitably comes to mind. Adapted on Bisco Hatori’s manga, this delightful reverse harem anime won over fans with its quirky characters, witty humor, and realistic exploration of gender norms and social expectations. However, despite its undeniable cultural impact and huge fanbase, the series has been left in a frustrating state of limbo.

The vibrant casts of Ouran High School Host Club | Credit: Studio Bones

While beloved series like Ranma ½ and Fruits Basket have received modern updates; breathing new life into their stories, fans of Ouran High School Host Club are left wondering: why not Ouran? The frustration is palpable across social media platforms, where longtime enthusiasts and new fans alike are rallying for the remake this iconic series deserves.

Ouran High School Host Club and its legacy in the anime world

After its 2006 premiere,...

Box Office New Year Record: Where Does Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 Stands? ( Photo Credit – YouTube )

Allu Arjun started the new year with a bang as Pushpa 2 Hindi version earned 10 crore on January 1. This is a huge number, considering it was the 28th day of the film’s theatrical run. In fact, the film has also found a spot in the top 10 biggest first-day box office collections of the year.

January 1 Box Office Collection

Allu Arjun’s biggie with 10 crore collection took the 8th spot in the list, surpassing Shah Rukh Khan’s Dunki and Prabhas’s Salaar. Interestingly, Salaar and Dunki had a box-office clash. Both films were released on December 21, 2023. Allu Arjun’s film on the 28th day earned more than Dunki and Salaar’s day 12, which happened to be January 1.

Aamir Khan Dominates The List

While Allu Arjun entered the top 10 list of the biggest January...

Marco Box Office Collection Day 12: Unni Mukundan Roars With The Hindi Version! ( Photo Credit – YouTube )

Unni Mukundan’s Malayalam action thriller Marco has been pacing up at the box office with its Hindi version and churn out some surprising numbers in the upcoming days. In 12 days, the film stands at a total of 38.65 crore at the box office, with 3.13 crore coming from the Hindi version.

The Hindi version of the film witnessed a sudden boom at the box office, yet again proving that good content is currently traveling beyond language boundaries. In fact, the film is maintaining its pace at the box office overall as well.

Marco Box Office Collection Day 12

On the 12th day, the second Tuesday, December 31, Marco earned a total of 1.35 crore at the box office. This was a minimal 15% drop at the box office from the previous day, which brought 1.6 crore to the table.

Trending...

The debate between modern and classic romance anime has been ongoing for decades. While classic anime offers a nostalgic hit, modern anime offers better animation and a less problematic plot. However, series like Nana, Fruits Basket, and Ouran High School Host Club can never be replaced by modern anime, and there’s a good reason for it.

From the lack of originality to less development in the series, the problems that modern anime face are endless. While some series manage to shine, others fall into the black hole of cliched plots and characters.

Modern anime lacks the originality of classic romance series Nana | Credits: Studio Madhouse

Since classic anime came first, there was way more scope for exploration. They had the edge of being the trendsetters during their time, something that classic series took full advantage of. While modern anime can offer better visuals and animation, the plot can feel cliched at times.

Pushpa 2 Hindi Box Office Day 27: Allu Arjun Brings 10th Highest Grossing Last Day Of The Year!( Photo Credit – YouTube )

Allu Arjun delivered the last day of the year on a successful note at the box office, bringing another record as the year 2024 reaches its finishing line. In 27 days, Pushpa 2 Hindi stands at an estimated total of 782 crore. And it is just a matter of another weekend when the film might touch the 800 crore mark!

Last Day Of The Year Box Office

On the last day of the year, December 31, the fourth Tuesday, Sukumar’s action biggie earned in the range of 6.25 – 6.5 crore at the box office as per the early trends. This is a jump of a positive 13% from the previous day that earned 5.5 crore.

10th Biggest Last Day Of The Year

Interestingly, Pushpa 2 has brought the 10th biggest last day of the year at the box office for the Hindi Cinema,...

Marco Box Office Collection Day 11: Unni Mukundan Starrer Is Raging At The Box Office! (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Unni Mukundan might be the new pan-India star with his latest release, Marco, roaring at the box office with the Hindi version of the film as well. In 11 days, the film stands at a total collection of 37.3 crore at the box office. Out of this, the Hindi version has contributed 2.53 crore.

On the 11th day, December 30, the second Monday, Unni Mukundan’s film earned 1.6 crore at the box office, which was a drop of 48% from the previous day, bringing 3.1 crore at the box office.

Marco Hindi Box Office Collection Day 11

Meanwhile, the Hindi version brought 5400% more than the opening day’s collection from the Hindi version. Marco registered 0.01 crore on the opening day, and on the 11th day, it earned 0.55 crore on the second Monday.

Trending Viduthalai Part 2 Worldwide Box Office Collection...

Family Feud fans have been saying for some time how the game show has become considerably less family-friendly, with raunchy survey questions and answers. Nowhere was that more obvious than in recent scenes from the game show. So, what happened on the set recently that has many thinking that the show has gone too far?

Family Feud: Game Show Used To Be Fun For The Whole Family

With as long as Family Feud has been on the air, many fans who have been watching the show for decades often reminisce about how the show used to be wholesome family entertainment. Of course, these same people may forget that former host Richard Dawson was notorious for kissing all of the female contestants.

Even so, many Family Feud watchers look back fondly at the show as wholesome family entertainment that children would watch with their parents, grandparents, or other family members. The...

For decades, Weekly Shonen Jump has been the beating heart of the manga industry, setting trends and introducing readers to some of the most iconic characters and stories in Japanese pop culture. Known for publishing thrilling action series, heartfelt coming-of-age tales, and unforgettable adventures, Shueisha's flagship magazine has been home to many of the best-selling manga in history. With each passing year, the magazine's bestsellers have not only captivated millions of readers but also defined entire eras of manga.

While the magazine has plenty of forgotten gems that deserve more recognition, it's the best-sellers that are most remembered for making waves around the world. Except for five years, the best-selling manga in Japan between 1980 and 2024 was always a series published on Weekly Shonen Jump.

1980

Dr. Slump

1981

Dr. Slump

1982

Dr. Slump

1983

Kinnikuman

1984

Kinnikuman

1985

Kinnikuman

1986

Hokuto no Ken

1987

Dragon Ball

1988

Dragon Ball

1989

Dragon Ball

1990

Dragon Ball

1991

Dragon Ball

1992

Dragon Ball

1993

Slam Dunk...

Ai Yazawa left no stone unturned in giving us one of the finest series in the shojo genre. Often, the manga is praised for its aesthetic and eye-catching fashion along with its stellar visuals. But what isn’t lauded enough is a key aspect that would put Kishimoto’s series to shame.

Hachi and Nana in a still from the anime | Credit: Madhouse

The series is a breakaway from the cliche tropes of the shojo genre. Through its riveting premise and elements, it redefines the genre in more ways than one. As an avant-garde manga, punk rock isn’t the only rebellious thing about Yazawa’s storytelling.

That being said, Kishimoto could take a page or two to add finesse and more refinement in his writing of female characters, including Sakura. In that aspect, the mangaka failed miserably most times.

Ai Yazawa redefined female friendships in Nana

Nana stands as...

Studio Madhouse and perfection go hand in hand, as the animation studio defines excellence with every project it takes on. If this description doesn’t ring a bell, then calling it the Hunter x Hunter animation studio would instantly make you understand Madhouse’s brilliance. The studio has many great anime under its belt, including Death Note, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Paprika, One Punch Man, and Nana.

A still from The Dinner Table Detective anime featuring Kazamatsuri | Credits: Studio Madhouse

It seems like Madhouse is all set to drop another great hit, as their upcoming anime The Dinner Table Detective reveals key details about its premiere. The newly revealed information that we have is a good sign as to what to expect from it, and fans are pumped.

The Dinner Table Detective and It’s Stellar Cast Kageyama, Reiko’s butler | Credits: Studio Madhouse

Based on the novel series by Tokuya Higashigawa,...

Few manga have had such a deep impact as Nana, the iconic series by Ai Yazawa. Through its emotionally charged storytelling, authentic characters, and unforgettable themes, Nana became a landmark in manga history. But the series has remained on hiatus since 2009 due to Yazawa's health issues, leaving fans in a bittersweet state of admiration and longing. While many hope for the series' return, accepting its current state as a masterpiece in its unfinished form is equally valid. Yazawas contributions to the manga world and her health remain more important than any conclusion.

Ai Yazawa's recent comments in interviews show her deep connection to Nana, calling it "the work of my life." These statements, combined with her apology for the ongoing hiatus, highlight both her dedication and the huge amount of pressure she faces from fans. Yazawas work has already left an indelible mark on her readers. While a continuation may never come,...

What Happened On Sets Of Karan Johar’s K3G? (Photo Credit – Instagram/Facebook)

Directed by Karan Johar, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham is one of the most iconic films in Hindi cinema. This multi-starrer film is Karan Johar’s second directorial venture. But did you know that the atmosphere on the film sets was not welcoming for Hrithik Roshan? Read on.

Karan revealed in his autobiography An Unsuitable Guy that negativity on the sets of K3G was disastrous. He revealed how Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kajol distanced themselves from Hrithik Roshan, which was sad.

With the success of the film Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai, Hrithik Roshan was being compared to Shah Rukh Khan. “It was unfair because he was too junior, and Shah Rukh Khan was already such a big star. But there was a phase when one or two Shah Rukh’s films had gone wrong...

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine wasn't the typical Star Trek fare. In fact, many fans were skeptical of a show that called itself Star Trek but was set on a space station instead of on a starship. Not to mention, when the show premiered, it was considerably darker than its predecessors. Though Star Trek: The Next Generation took on some heavy topics, Deep Space Nine went even deeper, and for writer, Robert Hewitt Wolfe, he didn't understand the show at first.

For Wolfe, the show wasn't as edgy as it was pitched to him, according to a report by Giant Freakin' Robot, and he was disappointed at first. He didn't think the characters were really being driven. Then one episode changed it all. That episode was the eighth of the first season, "Dax." In it, Jadzia Dax (Terry Farrell) is accused of a murder her previous host, Curzon, was supposedly responsible for.

If you’ve watched any anime edits on TikTok over the past few years, then it’s highly likely you’ve heard a song by Nxcre or his latest project, Nxcre & The Villains. His latest viral hit, “Usurper” has been taking over the social sphere for the Amv old heads. As you can imagine, this is the dream scenario for Nxcre, whose artistic vision was shaped by his love of anime. I had the chance to talk about his full circle anime moments, his Berserk -inspired music video, and the unexpected emotional resonance of Assassination Classroom . I'd love to hear how your anime journey started. Nxcre : Oh, man, it was since I was like a little kid. I remember watching as early as I can remember, like Yu-Gi-Oh! and Naruto and even Dragon Ball . I was infatuated with that type of stuff. Oh, and Inuyasha back in the day as well.

Nana by Ai Yazawa won the 48th Shogakukan Manga Award for shōjo category in 2003 and has over 50 million copies in circulation, making it one of the best-selling manga series of all time. And it’s no wonder why this particular work by Yazawa-sensei became so popular. Its rich and complicated characters, each just a little bit broken like most people, make their interactions and choices, both good and terrible, feel like they could originate from the reader’s own life.

Nana Osaki | Credits: Viz Media

This manga about relationships may easily descend into a soap opera-like melodrama, but its realistic portrayal of characters saves it from being labeled so. Nana tells the story of two girls who share the same name and how their lives are joined by fate, starting from a coincidental meeting on a train to Tokyo. Nana Komatsu, a young woman who’s had endless boyfriend troubles,...

In a significant move to combat the rising threat of unauthorized AI voice cloning, a coalition of popular Japanese voice actors has launched the “Nomore Unauthorized AI Generation” campaign on Oct 15, 2024.

This initiative aims to raise awareness about the exploitation of their voices, which are often replicated for commercial purposes without their knowledge or consent.

The campaign’s official X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and TikTok accounts went live on Oct 15.

A video posted across the platforms expresses the group’s concerns, stating, “Readings, songs, and even our voices, which we did not record, have been published online and are sometimes being sold. Our voices are our business tools, our lives, and an important part of ourselves that we have grown up with. Even if it was done by a fan who wanted to hear more of our voices, it is not pleasant to use it without permission.“

The video features 26 well-known voice actors,...

When I first mentioned Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin to my editor, I described it as having shown me an itch I could never scratch again. I added that I wasn't sure I'd want to. Rainbow is a thoroughly brutal and exhausting watch, but also one of the most beautiful I've ever encountered. Set in the hectic, uncertain atmosphere of Japan following World War II, Rainbow centers around six boys admitted to a reformatory alongside Rokurouta Sakuragi, their experienced cellmate, just barely their elder. The series is a cruelly gorgeous chronicle of their lives during and after Shnan Special Reformatory.

Art is famously impossible to define. What we call art is art. Rainbow isn't experimental, nor does it have a grand message. Rainbow is simply a story: a story about stories, all circling back to each other. Its straightforward narrative acts like a pendulum, every crushing moment providing the momentum for an inspiring one.

Quick Links Nana Represents The Pressure of Adult Relationships and Independence Aggretsuko Doesn't Let Its Protagonist Free From Overwork AnoHana Has Anime's Greatest Representation of Grief Your Lie In April Pushes The Protagonist To Work Through His Family Trauma Bartender Reveals How Emotionally Stirring The Service Industry Can Be

For several decades, anime fans have remained a niche community because of how different the industry is from the more popular live-action series. Anime is known as the ultimate escape to fantasy with outlandish scenarios and idealistic outcomes, but that doesn't mean that there isn't anything for television fans outside the anime community to enjoy. Fans of the beloved and critically acclaimed series The Bear have plenty of anime options to enjoy until the next season debuts.

The Bear became such an immediate success because of how perfectly the creators handled the series' major themes. The five major themes are relationships,...

The Crunchyroll Concert Series is about to light up San Diego Comic-Con with global J-pop sensation LiSA , who will take the stage on Friday, July 26, marking the first time for the artist to perform in the U.S. in nearly 10 years. Coming in just ahead of the August 17 launch of LiSA's concert film, LiVE is SMiLE Always -Lander- , the concert will be held at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park and will be free to all San Diego Comic-Con badge holders on a first-come, first-served basis subject to capacity. LiSA brings an incredible energy to the booth and the stage, and anime fans will know her for numerous hit theme songs, including "Gurenge" from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba , "Crossing Field" from Sword Art Online and "homura" from Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Movie: Mugen Train . Here's what LiSA had to say about the event: "I am so thrilled...

A new Chainsaw Man cosplay of the ever-eccentric Power the Blood Fiend combines a playful demeanor with a battle-ready look across six new images, as fans await more news about the anime's upcoming sequel.

Cosplayer @milxtg has impressed fans online with her true-to-life cosplay of Chainsaw Man's deadly Blood Fiend, Power. Via Reddit, @milxtg posted six images showcasing a horned Power in her Public Safety uniform: a white shirt, black tie, and blue hoodie. The photos range from eating and fighting bare-fisted to wielding her blood scythe seen in the anime's first season. Readers can check them out below.

Related Jujutsu Kaisen's Long-Time #1 Spot Replaced by Controversial Shonen Jump Favorite

Despite divided reception, a controversial development in a popular Shonen Jump title was enough to dethrone Jujutusu Kaisen from its #1 rank.

My Power cosplay!by u/milxtg in cosplay Commentby u/milxtg from discussionin cosplay Commentby u/milxtg from...

Monster is a classic psychological thriller anime now available on Netflix, offering a legal way to binge-watch this legendary series. The subtle colors and meticulous animation of Monster elevate the tension, earning it a dedicated following in the anime world. Monster is captivating and thought-provoking, testing viewers' convictions with its realistic portrayal of human nature and morality.

Naoki Urasawa's Monster is a true classic in the milieu of psychological thriller anime. The manga holds the honor of being an all-time bestseller. Until recently, however, it was notoriously difficult to find a legitimate place to watch its masterpiece adaptation. For years, the anime was only available on DVD. That problem is a thing of the past now that Netflix is streaming it. Curious anime fans have a legal means to binge the legendary series, which had previously eluded the world of streaming content for so long.

Monster's adaptation emerged...

Nana's recent resurgence in popularity stems from its powerful emotional drama and pending conclusion. The series features complex, relatable characters who experience self-discovery and relationship issues. Nana delves into themes of vulnerability, relationships, and features a strong focus on music and fashion.

Even though it was released almost 20 years ago, Nana has seen a recent revival in popularity, in part due to its addition to the Netflix catalog in some territories. The story is famous for being a powerful emotional drama that is, sadly, still pending a proper conclusion. Its author, Ai Yazawa, fell ill in 2009, and has been unable to continue working on the manga since then. Despite the lack of a formal ending, both the anime and the manga are still worth the experience in the present.

Nana is a josei anime, meaning its intended audience are young adult women. The plot stays true to this label; as the story goes on,...

When it comes to making the audience cry, sad romance anime hit a different level of hurt. Despite the genre being filled to the brim with quirky and memorable love stories, some romances dont find their footing. Sometimes, love does not blossom in the wake of an unavoidable tragedy, and sometimes, the circumstances snatch away the chance of having a happily ever after at the last moment. Its safe to say that the anime world has bestowed upon the fans several tragic love stories that will forever haunt them and make them wish they had avoided the pain-fest altogether.

Fans have experienced everything from the inevitable longing in I Want To Eat Your Pancreas to knowing that your favorite person is about to give up on life, like in Orange. Some romance anime have the capacity to inflict unrecoverable emotional damage like the following ones.

Nana Is Filled With Gut-Wrenching...

Josei anime are based on manga and light novels marketed toward an older female audience. The protagonists tend to be women, from adolescence to adulthood. The themes tend to be similar to shojo anime, but the content tends to be a bit more mature and cover topics most common in early adulthood.

Classic josei anime like Nana and Princess Jellyfish set amazing standards and are still very popular with the josei audience. Josei had a bit of a dry spell with new releases, but there's been a boom in josei releases over the last few years. Many recent josei titles are just as interesting and enjoyable as josei classics.

Related 10 Best Josei Anime That Embraced Its Clichs

Some of the best character developments in anime are from josei series, and there's no reason to hide from this clichd association.

No Doubt In Us Follows a Married Couple as They Gain...

Welcome to Creators on the Rise, where we find and profile breakout creators who are in the midst of extraordinary growth. You can check out previous installments here.

Fearfiction didn’t think cosplay was going to work out for her.

She’d always been a big fan of manga and anime. In fact, anime is “all I watch,” she says. “I barely watch anything else. I connect with it the most.”

And, when you love anime, it’s only natural that you run into cosplay. You either know cosplayers, have cosplayed yourself, or see every fan convention you go to chock full of people dressed up as their favorite characters. Fearfiction–aka Gabby–knew she liked cosplay, but the idea of getting into it herself was intimidating. The costumes she saw were spectacles of skill. She’d have to learn sewing, wig styling, makeup, and much, much more.

“How do you even start with that?...

As early as 2018 Jamaican superstar Shenseea was telling interviewers “By next year I want to be international, and when I say that, I don’t mean just as a dancehall artiste, but an international pop star.” Just last week Shenseea wondered aloud to Spotify if she should start classifying her sound as “dancehall pop” or “reggae pop.” Her second album, Never Gets Late Here, boldly continues on that long road to be the first Jamaican-born Main Pop Girl since Grace Jones and, thankfully, her attempts are mostly seamless.

On the LP,...

Headed by actress-turned-director Virginia de Witt and Koji Ueda, a Kyoto-born Tokyo-based director, photographer, and filmmaker, “Karita” is a film inspired by the manga series “Nana”, while trying to answer the question, what if “Lost in Translation” was cast with the “Fleabag” character. The 17-minute short will be premiering at the Dances With Films Festival on June 22nd in Los Angeles.

Karita review is part of the Submit Your Film Initiative

The film begins with a series of impressive images from nighttime Tokyo, while the ominous music suggests that something dangerous is about to happen. The next scene has two women walking in the streets during the day, as Nico, an American, is shown around Tokyo by her friend

and supervisor at a local record store, Rumi. The camera is shaky and the cuts frantic, while there is a different dialogue heard in the background. The next, dominated by neon pink lights scene,...

What Even is 'Retro Anime'? Epic Anime Debates - Main Image

At Epicstream, our team regularly debate the big questions around anime fandom. This week, with the release of T.P Bon on Netflix, we decided to ask what makes a retro anime so retro.

Most of us conjure a specific image when considering a loaded phrase like retro anime. However, how much is retro to do with a particular show's style and how much is it to do with our own experiences of anime growing up?

Check out what our experts had to say and join the conversation in the comments!

Cathlyn: "Retro is About Art Styles"

When we talk about retro anime, two or three things come to mind: the anime's time of release, visual techniques, and genre tropes. After all, retro anime often reflects character archetypes and distinctive art styles prevalent during the time of their production.

Cillian Murphy obtained one of acting’s most coveted achievements when he won an Oscar for his leading role in “Oppenheimer.” But his award season run for the acclaimed Christopher Nolan film didn’t end with his big night at the Dolby Theater. The Irish actor went on to receive his home country’s highest acting honor on Sunday at the Irish Film and TV Academy Awards when he won the Lead Actor — Film category for “Oppenheimer.”

The ceremony honored the best Irish film and television of 2023, with Pat Collins’ “That They May Face the Rising Sun” winning Best Film. Other notable winners included Paul Mescal taking Supporting Actor for “All of Us Strangers” and Alison Oliver winning Supporting Actress for “Saltburn.”

Keep reading for a complete list of winners from the 2024 Irish Film and TV Academy Awards.

Best Film

“Double Blind”

“Flora and Son”

“Lies We Tell”

“Lola”

“That They May Face the Rising Sun...

Quick Links Fan Service Has Been the Worst Part of Anime Jujutsu Kaisen Turned the Focus Onto Men, With Respect The Apothecary Diaries Brought Fan Service Back To Women But Maintained Their Dignity

To those who aren't anime fans, the animation medium is, understandably, odd. The variety of subject material brings fans to the most bizarre ideas and the surrealism and rejection of scientific laws is enough to catch anyone off guard, but the fact is, there's no harm in any of these tropes. The aspect of anime that's a huge point of controversy has always been the overbearing use of fanservice.

The anime industry might not have started the trend of sexualizing fictional characters, but it did enhance the value of it as a source of entertainment for practically every demographic. According to TV Tropes, "Most fanservice is seldom explicit or graphic...instead, it uses sexuality or hints at...

Nana Visitor used Method acting for Major Kira's "traumatized emotional states," staying in character personally. Visitor's performance as Kira in "Duet" made it one of DS9's best episodes, impacting her deeply. Visitor held on to Kira's memories, bringing authenticity to the trauma of the Cardassian occupation on Bajor.

To bring authenticity to her performance as Major Kira Nerys on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, actress Nana Visitor kept herself "traumatized" by the anger and resentment that defined Kira's character. After Nerys spent most of her life as a Bajoran freedom fighter during the Cardassian occupation, Major Kira found herself in new territory as the Bajoran liaison to Deep Space Nine and First Officer to Commander Benjamin Sisko (Avery Brooks). Even after Bajor won independence, it was impossible for Kira to forget the trauma that the Cardassians inflicted on the Bajoran people, and on Kira's life in particular.

The acting...

Warning: The following contains spoilers for Nana by Ai Yazawa!!

Nana's iconic cover art tells visual stories of Nana and Hachi's friendship through dynamic illustrations. Volume #5 introduces recurring characters and sets the course for Hachi's future character arc, which is beautifully set-up through the cover art's depiction of the two protagonists on a day out. Volume #20 signifies a heavy arc in the series as Ren spiraling, creating strain in his relationship with Trapnest, and with Nana Osaki.

Ai Yazawa is fondly recognized as being one of the most prolific shojo mangaka of all time, and for good reason. Her stories and characters are beautifully written, and her ability to tackle difficult social issues and the more difficult aspects of young adult life is a skill that makes her work relatable to everyone who picks up her work. Perhaps her most famous series, Nana, which originally began serializing in 2000 and...

Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You is returning for a third season on Netflix in August 2024. Original cast members will reprise their roles in the new season, set to hopefully wrap up the heartwarming romance story. The third season will be directed by Kenichi Matsuzawa, with series composition by Tomoko Konparu and music by Sens.

Fondly remembered as a classic shojo anime from the 2000s alongside other beloved series like Fruits Basket and Ouran High School Host Club, Karuho Shiina's Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You is a staple in the demographic and a franchise that many anime fans have cited as being one of the best shojo ever made.

While the original manga ended in 2017, and the second season of the anime concluded in 2011, a third season is finally being produced to hopefully wrap up the adaptation of Shiina's heartwarming romance story.

In addition to...

Following up on last month's big main cast drop, the first trailer has arrived for the new season of the Kimi ni Todoke anime along with a new visual and August 2024 premiere plans. Kimi ni Todoke Season 3 will stream globally on Netflix, and you can check out the new preview for a fresh look at some familiar faces below. Kimi ni Todoke Season 3 Trailer Related: Kimi ni Todoke 3Rd Season Anime Reveals Main Staff, Additional Cast Kimi ni Todoke Season 3 is being directed by Kenichi Matsuzawa ( Noblesse: Awakening ), with Tomoko Konparu handling series composition, as well as writing scripts with Michiko Yokote. Sens Project is back on music duties. Cast members include Miyuki Sawashiro as Ayane Yano, Yuko Sanpei as Chizuru Yoshida, Yuichi Nakamura as Ryu Sanada and more. Viz Media published the Kimi ni Todoke manga over the years and describes the first volume: With her jet-black hair, sinister smile and silent demeanor,...

Following up on last month's big main cast drop, the first trailer has arrived for the new season of the Kimi ni Todoke anime along with a new visual and August 2024 premiere plans. Kimi ni Todoke 3Rd Season will stream globally on Netflix, and you can check out the new preview for a fresh look at some familiar faces below. Kimi ni Todoke 3Rd Season Trailer Related: Kimi ni Todoke 3Rd Season Anime Reveals Main Staff, Additional Cast Kimi ni Todoke 3Rd Season is being directed by Kenichi Matsuzawa ( Noblesse: Awakening ), with Tomoko Konparu handling series composition, as well as writing scripts with Michiko Yokote. Sens Project is back on music duties. Cast members include Miyuki Sawashiro as Ayane Yano, Yuko Sanpei as Chizuru Yoshida, Yuichi Nakamura as Ryu Sanada and more. Viz Media published the Kimi ni Todoke manga over the years and describes the first volume: With her jet-black hair,...

Stereotypes didn't hold back Major Kira; she broke the mold. In the '90s, beauty norms limited roles for women like Nana Visitor. Kira Nerys was ahead of her time in defying stereotypes.

Nana Visitor, who played Major Kira Nerys on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, wasn't considered "beautiful" by Star Trek's producers in the 1990s when DS9 was airing. Major Kira had spent her life fighting in the Bajoran Resistance, and was understandably traumatized by the Cardassian occupation of Bajor, before coming to work on Deep Space Nine as Commander Benjamin Sisko's (Avery Brooks) First Officer. Kira was tough, resilient, and angry; but also hopeful, spiritual, and full of a deep love for the Bajoran people. Beauty didn't figure into the casting process for Kira quite so much as other traits.

It sounds unbelievable today when it's clear that there's beauty in Nana Visitor's passionate performances as Kira,...

It’s a timeless debate in the anime community whether classic shojo is better than modern day. There are obvious differences between the two that have more or less worked for each period of the genre. It’s difficult to undermine either, since nostalgic shojo anime series like Sailor Moon, Fruits Basket, Nana, and more have withstood the test of time, while modern shows like Horimiya, Skip and Loafer, Romantic Killer are already on their way to becoming modern classics.

Despite having their deserved time in the limelight and on the popularity chart, there are differences between modern shojo and the classics that are hard to ignore. There are certain categorical directions that set them apart and lead fans to lean towards one or the other. Whether it’s the drastic change in female representation or the change of linear storytelling, modern shojo and classic series have come a long way.

Viz Media revealed its slate of new releases and acquisitions that will launch starting in Fall of this year, with the biggest acquisition in the new Eiichiro Oda one-shot Wanted! Eiichiro Oda Before One Piece , which features all of the legendary creator's early work prior to his best-known work. The full slate is featured below. Kaiju No. 8: Exclusive on the Third Division (Light Novel) by Naoya Matsumoto and Keiji Ando Description: Get an exclusive sneak peek into the lives of kaiju-fighting heroes Kafka, Reno, Kikoru, and Hoshina, in a new light novel! Otaku Vampire’s Love Bite (Manga) by Julietta Suzuki Description: Modern vampire Hina sets out from Romania to live out her otaku dreams in Japan! Her new neighbor, Kyuta, looks just like her anime crush. Can she convince him to be friends? Trillion Game (Manga) by Riichiro Inagaki and Ryoichi Ikegami Description: Haru and Gaku become...