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Manga Mavericks LLC, a new manga publisher serving North America, announced 2 newly licensed titles during its panel at Comic Con International that will be added to its print and digital catalog in early 2026. These titles will also be made available early to paid subscribers of the Manga Mavericks Substack newsletter.

The latest releases include the sci-fi adventure series, Pipe Machine, the first volume of which is scheduled for release in March 2026, and the fantasy action series, Path From Tanuki Temple, the first volume of which is scheduled for release in April 2026.

Pipe Machine, Volume 1, by Takuji Umihara ·

Print Srp: $14.99 / Digital Srp: $6.99 ·

160 pages · Isbn: 9781968054236 · For Readers 13+ ·

Available March 2026

Saburo is a normal kid—or at least he tries to be, but the bizarre finds its way to him with alarming precision. First, a weirdo with a samurai haircut clad in just undies is hanging around his town, then his Grandfather builds...

Seriously, when Kazuhiko Torishima, the Og editor of Dragon Ball Z, speaks, he manga world should probably shut up and listen. We mean, this is the guy who helped bring Dr. Slump and Dragon Ball to life, shaped Weekly Shonen Jump during its most iconic years, and saw manga evolve from this quirky kids’ entertainment to an international sensation.

But now? Torishima’s not clapping. He’s calling it out. Loud and clear. At Japan Expo 2025, he unleashed some tough realities that were a lot more powerful than a Goku Kamehameha. He said the manga industry is losing its artistic touch, originality is struggling, and if we keep going on like this, we’re gonna have a future full of soulless, boring, copy-paste manga. And yeah, he compared it to Starbucks and McDonald’s. Let’s break it down.

Dragon Ball Z Legend Torishima Thinks the Manga Industry Is in Big...

Kazuhiko Torishima, the former editor for the iconic Dragon Ball manga, stated that the Japanese manga industry has lost its unique artistic identity, leading to a “bleak” future for the medium.

Speaking at a press conference at Japan Expo on July 4, 2025, Torishima argued that one of the reasons for this loss of identity is the industry’s move to digital platforms.

He noted that these platforms rely on algorithms to suggest similar manga to readers, and this reliance on algorithms has led to a point where all manga look the same.

“With digital manga, algorithms feed readers only the same kind of content. We’ve reached a point where all manga look the same, taste the same—like Starbucks manga or McDonald’s manga,” he said. “Japanese manga has lost its sense of unique artistic identity.“

Torishima felt that if editors at Shueisha continued to ignore this data and went against...

Welcome to the latest instalment of our Dissected feature here on Nerdly, where one of our comic gurus, Ian Wells, delves into comics history and looks back at Comics Interview, the long-running journal of interviews and criticism from David Anthony Kraft (Dak).

Rod Reed

Rod Reed was the first person to write Captain Marvel outside of Bill Parker and is credited with some of Captain Marvel’s best Golden Age stories, building up a strong working relationship with Kurt Schaffenberger. I found it interesting that he said his scripts weren’t very detailed, only when they needed to be, such as for a big fight or something. I always assumed that the older generation was more focused and had the attention span to write detailed scripts as the norm. When you hear about the ‘Marvel Method, ‘ you assume everything before then was more by the book. The nice thing about...

Sometimes, there are titles that simply get forgotten as the years pass by. It doesn't necessarily mean they are bad, but rather that a series of factors got in the way of wider audiences getting to know it. Back in the early 80s, it was a lot more difficult for Japanese movies to make it all the way to Western audiences. Works like Japanese master Osamu Tezuka's A Time Slip of 10,000 Years: Prime Rose be forgotten to the point of never getting an English dub or a Blu-ray release. This changed this month, with SkySet Entertainment releasing a special edition of the anime classic that is already available for purchase.

In the story, the world is torn apart by a massive entity called the Death Mask that splits in half and wreaks havoc in Kujukuri City, Japan, and Dallas, Texas — both cities are somehow hurled 10,000 years into the future.

Hector Malot’s 1878 novel “Sans Famille” might not be familiar to many. But it is one that has made a mark on the world of anime. It has been adapted four times over the years, with its most popular being the 1977 series “Nobody’s Boy: Remi” directed by Osamu Dezaki and produced by Tokyo Movie Shinsha and Madhouse. It went on to be well known in many European, South American, and Middle Eastern countries, but never gained the same acclaim outside of there. Now that it is the latest to be remastered by AnimEigo it may finally be time for more people to discover a lesser-known classic.

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Young Remi lives a simple but happy life in the remote French countryside with his Mama and his best friend Rousette the cow. His father has been away in Paris working for many years and...

The nominees have been revealed for the 2025 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, and a bunch of manga titles have been included in the Best U.S. Edition of International Material - Asia category. Six manga titles are up for the award this year, including Takeru Hokazono’s Kagurabachi , Taiyo Matsumoto’s Tokyo These Days and Kodansha’s recent release of Asao Takamori and Tetsuya Chiba’s classic Ashita no Joe manga. Here’s the full list for the category: Best U.S. Edition of International Material - Asia Ashita no Joe: Fighting for Tomorrow by Asao Takamori and Tetsuya Chiba Translated by Asa Yonola Publisher: Kodansha Hereditary Triangle by Fumiya Hayashi Translated by Alethea and Athena Nibley Publisher: Yen Press Kagurabachi vol. 1 by Takeru Hokazono Translated by Camellia Nieh Publisher: Viz Media Last Quarter vol. 1 by Ai Yazawa Translated by Max Greenway Publisher: Viz Media Search and Destroy vol. 1 by...

The official blog and X (formerly Twitter) for Sb Creative's Ga Bunko light novel imprint released a special collaboration illustration featuring The Brilliant Healer's New Life in the Shadows , based on the fantasy light novel series by Sakaku Hishikawa (story) and Daburyu (illustrations), and Black Jack, Tezuka Osamu's classic medical manga. The two series share the characteristic of having an unlicensed healer and doctor as their protagonists. The illustration was provided by Tezuka Productions, which was founded by Tezuka in 1968, and features Black Jack and his assistant Pinoko alongside Zenos and his assistant Lily. Posters using the collaboration illustration will be displayed at some bookstores in Japan starting April 26. Related: The Brilliant Healer's New Life in the Shadows Anime Reveals Premiere Date, Opening Song in New Trailer The TV anime adaptation of The Brilliant Healer's New Life in the Shadows novel premiered in Japan on April 3, 2025. Crunchyroll is...

After two consecutive nominations at the Manga Taisho awards and being ranked #1 favorite manga among female readers in Japan, Tomato Soup‘s feminist epic “A Witch’s Life in Mongol” will finally get its first English language release, allowing readers from all over the world to marvel at its exotic visuals and intricate cultural references, backed up by the author’s genuine fascination for ancient history and science.

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In the 13th century, young yet strongly-willed Sitara is deported from her homeland and sold in Persia as a slave, where she becomes the servant of madame Fatima, widow to one of the greatest scholars in the Khwarazmian Empire. However, while Sitara becomes versed in astrology and the sacred texts, a new threat approaches: Eight years after her abduction, Sitara is once more enslaved by the Mongol invaders, who wipe out her mistress...

Hayao Miyazaki has used manual drawings for his anime movies throughout his life. In fact, the Ghibli style is unimaginable without intricate hand-drawn details. The animator and director has also expressed his disapproval of any machine-aided animations.

But there was indeed a time when he himself admitted that maybe CGI wasn’t the enemy he was making it out to be. It had potential, something that he realized after watching a famous Tom Hanks movie.

Hayao Miyazaki once considered the potential of CGI because of a Tom Hanks movie

Hayao Miyazaki is renowned for using traditional art styles at Studio Ghibli. He has always been vocal in his criticism of AI-generated or computer-generated art and animation. But after watching one movie, the director seems to have had a change in opinion. The movie in question is Toy Story, the 1995 Pixar x Disney animated movie. It featured Tom Hanks as the voice actor of the protagonist,...

It's been over 60 years since the first Astro Boy anime aired on Japanese television. Based on Osamu Tezuka's manga of the same name, the show was originally in black and white and showcased the popular human-shaped robot that carried human emotions. Recently, the anime has returned to television, but with some changes.

According to Cbr, Astro Boy's first compilation film, Astro Boy: Hero of Space, was re-broadcasted on Japanese television back on March 30 by Nhk General TV. The film featured episodes 46, 56, and 71, as well as scenes from the anime's first three episodes. Tezuka's blog site wrote about the film's return on February 18, featuring new scenes and audio. In addition to these new scenes, it was revealed on the Nhk website that the feature used AI restoration technology to turn this film into a full-colored feature, as previously, it used a mix of black and white and partial color during its original release.

In September 1963, American audiences received their first introduction to anime via the televised debut of Osamu Tezuka's Astro Boy. Recently, the classic black-and-white series was given a brand-new, full-color restoration and a prime-time broadcast slot on Japanese television.

Per Osamu Tezuka's official site, a "re-edited version" of Astro Boy: Hero of Space (1964) -- the franchise's first-ever compilation film -- was re-broadcast on March 30 (effectively March 31) by Nhk General TV. Prior to the film's release, the network spotlighted it via its online blog, stating that it has "now been restored to full color using AI-restoration technology." The original 1964 version was shown with only some colorized scenes. Certain sequences, such as transitions between individual episodes, were redrawn by human animators for the restored edition.

North America’s First Anime Re-Airs Following AI Restoration After 60 Years Image via Tezuka Productions

Widely perceived as one of Tezuka's most iconic creations, Astro Boy revolves...

Today, anime has truly moved from a niche interest to a worldwide cultural phenomenon many would boldly pronounce mainstream. What was a relatively obscure hobby only 15 years ago now stands as a cornerstone of pop culture. Today, anime merch fills store shelves, Western pop icons openly talk about their love for anime, and most people have at least heard of the most popular anime series, if they haven't also watched them.

However, anime’s journey to mainstream success in America has not been smooth sailing. The path to bringing anime to the West began in the '60s, and its widespread acceptance took decades of exposure. Nowadays, anime might be beloved and easily accessible to curious viewers and die-hard fans across the globe, yet that would never have been the case without the contribution of older anime shows paving the way for the medium in America.

Astro Boy Was the...

Anime has given a lot to the world; there is no doubt that manga and anime have become mainstream sources of entertainment today. However, with the advancements in technology, AI-generated animation is rapidly infiltrating the anime industry.

One example that seems to push for the usage of AI and become the ‘poster’ is the anime Twins Hinahima. There have been many instances where we have seen AI being used.

Himari from Twins Hinahima | Credits: KaKa Technology Studios

Director Iizuka Naomichi (the one behind Twins Hinahima) argues that AI will create new “opportunities” for animators, but his vision ignores a fundamental truth that the anime industry has been built on the efforts of many giants who struggled to portray the best art they could.

Would the giants of anime approve?

There are many greats like Osamu Tezuka, Satoshi Kon, and Hayao Miyazaki who dedicated their lives to anime so future generations...

Osamu Tezuka's classic medical manga Black Jack will receive a musical adaptation in the summer of 2025. The musical will tour to Niigata, Nagoya, Hamamatsu, Sapporo, and Hyogo, beginning with performances at Imm Theater in Tokyo from June 28 to July 13. Tezuka's original manga was serialized in Akita Shoten's Weekly Shonen Champion magazine from 1973 to 1978. The story follows the activities of Kuroo Hazama, aka Black Jack, a genius surgeon but without a medical license. Even after his death in 1989, it has been adapted into anime, live-action, and stage plays many times. Tamiya Kuriyama, who has won many awards including the Kinokuniya Theatre Award Individual Award and the Yomiuri Theatre Grand Prize for Best Director, will serve as director. 53-year-old Masayuki Sakamoto, a former member of Johnny & Associates' boy idol group V6, is cast as the title character, Black Jack. The other cast members include Nako Yabuki as Pinoko, Ryosuke Mikata as Dr.

A.I., or artificial intelligence, is once again sparking debates within the anime world. At a recent animation festival in Japan, Iizuka Naomichi -- the director behind Japan's "first AI anime" to be broadcast nationally, Twins Hinahima -- countered arguments against AI by stating that, instead of taking jobs, it will result in new "opportunities" for Japan's animators.

As reported by Pia, Naomichi recently co-hosted a symposium at Niigata's 3rd Animation Festival in Niigata City, Japan. At "The Future of AI-Driven Animation Expression," Naomichi was joined by fellow anime director Makoto Tezuka (Tezuka Productions) and several other prominent industry figures to discuss AI's potential uses for animation. While fielding questions from attendees, Naomichi addressed the topic of AI removing coveted animation positions, such as directing, from the industry. "I never even thought of entrusting directing to AI," Naomichi stated. "I thought it would be pointless to let AI do the interesting parts of video production.

Those associated with the Dragon Ball series have discussed the late Akira Toriyama’s artistic skills during his controversial switch to digital tools. The longtime discourse over the industry’s push toward digital has changed dramatically in recent years due to the questionable use of generative AI programs.

The latest episode of KosoKoso featured brand-new guests involved in the production of Dragon Ball. Katsuyoshi Nakatsuru, a key animator and character designer, is credited for designing Super Saiyan 4 for Dragon Ball Gt, which made its triumphant return in Dragon Ball Daima. Kazuo Enokimoto is a background artist for Toei Animation who worked on the Dragon Ball TV series and Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies. The podcast series is also hosted by former Dragon Ball editor Kazuhiko Torishima, alongside Dragon Quest creator Yuji Horii, for whom Toriyama worked as the game's character artist. Like the previous episode, the KosoKoso panel discussed their history with Toriyama.

“Something authentic has been lost” – is exactly what a Dragon Ball editor thinks about the manga industry’s switch from manual to digital tools for drawing. However, there is one person in the industry who is still set in his ways and refuses to convert. And it’s none other than Eiichiro Oda.

Oda is the writer of one of the big three in the Shonen anime space. One Piece has been continuing for decades, and over the years, it has received above 1100 chapters. Still, the author has refused to change his drawing technique and chooses ink and paper over a soulless digital tool.

Akira Toriyama’s switch to digital drawing tools made his drawings less expressive in Dragon Ball Akira Toriyama’s switch to digital drawing made his art less expressive | Credits: Viz Media, Shueisha

On March 20, 2025, a few famous manga and anime industry professionals appeared in a live-streamed KosoKoso podcast.

Studio Ghibli and other anime fans have something special to look forward to over the next three days. Heritage Auctions, the world's largest collectibles auctioneer, is holding its biggest-ever anime artwork event, beginning on March 22 and showcasing over 1,200 total works, including Studio Ghibli films, Dragon Ball Z, Akira and more.

Per a press release, included among the lots are production cels, key master backgrounds, original artwork and many other pieces, including story pages and original art from several manga series. "The Art of Anime - Vol VI: Celebrating 40 Years of Studio Ghibli Signature Auction" is held on Heritage Auctions' live floor in addition to its official website, allowing interested parties to place bids on items without having to physically attend. For fans of these various forms of media, the online portion of the auction is accessible and allows the chance to claim some of these special pieces of art and animation history.

Osamu Tezuka, often referred to as the ‘Godfather of Manga’ and ‘The Walt Disney of Japan,’ is one of the most influential figures in the world of anime and manga. His works, like Astro Boy, Black Jack, etc. not only defined the visual and narrative structure of contemporary manga but also laid down the foundation of the industry’s aesthetic philosophy. Tezuka’s innovative narrative, emotionally invested characters, and dynamic animation technique made anime popular from just an art form to a global phenomenon.

A still from Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy anime. | Credit: Imagi Animation Studios

Even today, decades after his death, his influence persists throughout the world. But this legacy now stands at the center of a heated controversy. A recent revelation by Osamu Tezuka’s son Makoto, has sparked outrage among fans and industry professionals. His decision to use artificial intelligence to recreate his father’s work...

Lately, Twins Hinahima stirred the pot on the internet because of its AI animation. AI usage in creative fields is a growing concern among most artists be it mangaka, voice artists, or designers. It has garnered controversy and continues to do so especially with this animation studio’s latest move.

A still from the Twins Hinahima anime | Credit: KaKa Technology Studio

Creator’s X studio, in particular, filed for a trademark application for both AI anime and AI animation. This is yet another controversial and contentious move that affects the artists in the long run. It is also bound to lead the animation industry to its doom in every possible way.

Creator’s X studio files trademark for AI anime and animation

There’s a lot that goes behind crafting a perfect anime but sometimes it isn’t all too ideal. This is especially true for adverse conditions faced by...

Samurai are among the most important people in Japanese culture and history, considering they remain a significant source of inspiration for Japanese artists. Animators have brought samurai history to life through anime, creating some amazing fight sequences and even better discussions on honor and friendship. While samurai are part of the military caste, they are also much more than that.

Samurai have a unique code of honor unlike anything else seen in the country, or anywhere in the world, for that matter. Some fantastic samurai anime are out there for those interested in seeing samurai in action. These warriors have always been a key part of anime, and while samurai anime tend to be rooted in historical realism rather than fantasy, the battles in these series are incredible. Almost everyone will find something to love in these awesome samurai anime.

Updated on March 15th by Chelsea Steele: Samurai will...

It can be tough trying to figure out what to watch. After a long day at work, figuring out what to eat for dinner, and finally sitting down to relax, sifting through dozens and dozens of movies can be a chore in and of itself. With so many series and films to choose from, sometimes it can feel easier to just fall asleep to YouTube videos.

Luckily, Crunchyroll has an impressive catalogue of anime films available for viewing on right now. These movies range from family-friendly fare to more mature stories best suited for adults. From science fiction to fantasy, from martial arts epics to tales of silly adventures, these movies cover it all.

Bayonetta: Bloody Fate Brought the PS3 Action Straight to Anime Stream Bayonetta: Bloody Fate on CrunchyrollImage via Gonzo

The forces of Heaven and Hell are constantly at war with one another. On Earth, two groups of powerful magic users,...

For generations, the anime medium has only grown more and more popular in the West, with brand-new titles being announced constantly. There is truly a genre for any viewer, and a story that is sure to remain in their memories for years to come. Alongside several animated series, a wide roster of movies also expands over time, with many films correlating to existing anime and manga.

When it comes to movie nights, it can be hard to pick a film to watch that everyone will enjoy. However, there is a great variety of anime films for the whole audience, even for those who do not usually like anime. These are stories that truly stand the test of time, and may even change someone's perspective on the anime medium if they initially do not care for it.

My Neighbor Totoro Is Wonderful for the Whole Family Stream My Neighbor Totoro on Max

My Neighbor Totoro,...

Far too often these days, fantasy settings in anime are just fodder for power fantasies. However, some fantasy anime prefer to travel down a darker path. These series feature characters who've been horrendously wronged and become singularly driven by revenge.

Fantasy anime series focused on revenge often take place in dark fantasy settings, allowing viewers a break from the usual high fantasy featured in most series. While these can occasionally veer into being needlessly edgy, the best series are cathartic. Great revenge storylines push fans to think about the downsides to giving oneself over to such an all-consuming emotion, or at least offer the enjoyment of seeing a target of revenge finally get what they deserve.

Kaze no Stigma Sees a Mage Return to His Family After Being Exiled Stream Kaze no Stigma on CrunchyrollImage via Gonzo

Kaze no Stigma follows the story of Kazuma Kannagi, a member of a...

When the 51st issue of Weekly Shonen Jump was published in Japan in 1984, few could have predicted how historic it would become. Inside its pages was the very first chapter of Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball, a series that would go on to conquer the world and set a new standard for manga and anime storytelling from Japan. While the issue sold millions of copies—typical for Shonen Jump in the 1980s—very few copies of this historic issue have survived in good condition.

Now, a rare copy of Weekly Shonen Jump featuring the first installment of Dragon Ball in near-mint condition has been sold at auction in Japan. While the issue originally retailed for a mere 170 yen (approximately $1.15) when first published, the final auction price reached a head-spinning 3.8 million yen. Could this sale signal a rise in Japan’s collectible manga market?

Japan’s Collectible Manga Market: A Growing Trend?...

Hello Kitty fans now have a free streaming treat available. After its international Blu-ray release last year, Tamala 2010: A Punk Cat in Space -- officially described as a Hello Kitty-inspired 'fever dream' anime -- has arrived on a free streaming service.

Via Wtk on X (formerly Twitter), Darkroom is now streaming the animated film Tamala 2010: A Punk Cat in Space. Released in 2002, the 1-hour and 32-minute film was directed by the two-member team t.o.L., taking place in a dystopian society ruled by the evil super-corporation Catty & Co. Darkroom allows users to stream the film for free with ads or subscribe for an ad-free experience. Readers can check out the official trailer below.

Hello Kitty-Inspired Anime 'Tamala 2010: A Punk Cat in Space' Finds Free Streaming Home Tamala 2010: A Punk Cat in Space is streaming on Darkroom https://t.co/luDYJmPkZTBlu-ray is still available:LEhttps://t.

Quick LinksThe History of Manga vs. Manhwa vs. ManhuaCensorship Is Typically Very Apparent In ManhuaManga, Manhwa, and Manhua's Ideal ReadershipCultural Content & Reading Direction in Manga, Manhwa, and ManhuaArtwork & Text in Manga, Manhwa, and ManhuaBlurring the Lines Between Manhwa, Manhua and Manga Through Anime

In recent years, the international popularity of manga has led to an increased interest in manhwa and manhua. Manga, manhwa, and manhua sound the same and, generally speaking, are similar in artwork and layout, which can result in accidentally categorizing these comics as all being Japanese in origin. The question of what manhwa and manhua is a frequent refrain, especially given that one of these has historically been kept out of the West.

However, there are several subtle but important differences between the three. This can be noted in the art styles of the creators involved, not to mention the country-exclusive names. Since there is so much anime being produced today,...

It's sometimes a rare treat to see an anime series actually finish its story, since it's rather common for an anime to either go on hiatus or never finish the original manga's story at all. Recent anime titles, meanwhile, haven't even had a chance to finish their stories yet, such as My Hero Academia and Jujutsu Kaisen, so anime fans end up with a lot of unfinished stories. However, there are some wonderful exceptions to that trend.

In past decades, fantastic anime like Neon Genesis Evangelion and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood finished their stories, and more recently, other great anime titles have done the same. From 2020 to the present, fun anime series in all different genres crossed the finish line and aired their final seasons or concluded with anime movies. Anime fans can either watch these series for the first time or revisit them so they can get a complete viewing experience.

‘Jungle Emperor Leo’ or ‘Kimba the White Lion’ as it is known in the US and many countries around the world, is a Japanese animation classic for a number of reasons. Its universal message of peace makes it a timeless classic. Additionally, its roots in the Japanese manga tradition and the involvement of influential filmmakers have ensured that it has had a profound influence on future artists.

Jungle Emperor Leois streaming on Jff Theater until 2025/05/01 11:00:00 [Jst]

The white lion cub Leo, born in captivity, has big shoes to fill as his father Panja was the emperor of the jungle. Panja was a very brave leader and protector of the jungle animals until the moment he died. Leo’s mother wants her son to honor his father’s legacy and urges him to escape. He sets out on an adventurous journey where Leo encounters various challenges and adversaries, including rival predators and human threats.

Horror manga legend Junji Ito has been nominated for the Will Eisner Comic Awards Hall of Fame this year. He is one of 18 nominees, with voters set to choose the six new inductees. Alongside Ito, Shigeru Mizuki, a late manga creator, has already been pre-selected for induction.

Ito, who won the Inkpot Award from Comic-Con International in 2023, has also had his work nominated for Eisner Awards in the past. His Black Paradox manga was nominated for Best U.S. Edition of International Material—Asia in 2023.

Related: All 24 Junji Ito Books in Order

In addition to his manga success, Junji Ito is making waves in film and TV. Through the Lens Entertainment and Fangoria Studios are working on adaptations of his works ‘The Mystery of the Haunted House’ and ‘Bloodsucking Darkness’ into films.

Ito’s latest anime, Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre, which adapts 20 of his stories, launched...

A year ago, the legendary mangaka Akira Toriyama passed away, leaving a huge void in the manga industry. The Dragon Ball creator has touched lives through his story and has revolutionized the shonen genre. But he is rather discreet about his personal life, especially his family.

Goku in a still from the anime | Credit: Toei Animation

And why should he not? Considering the public eye and media, the secrecy makes sense. However, it only means that the personal realm is rather less explored. And while that is the case, there are interesting stories behind it as well that tie up to his $27 billion franchise.

Akira Toriyama’s discreet family life

It is widely known that public appearances as well as interviews aren’t Akira Toriyama’s best suit. To come across an interview or an interaction itself is a rarity. However, with what we know, he has opened up about...

Anime has been an exponentially increasing market since its inception. With the help of streaming and network distribution, anime has also become a worldwide phenomenon. A multibillion-dollar industry that doesn't show any signs of stopping, anime is probably Japan's largest and most influential cultural export.

With a seemingly endless supply of shows and stories, even the most dedicated fans couldn't keep up with everything being released. There are lots of different ways to measure the success of a franchise, but the most obvious one would be in terms of its commercial success and financial revenue.

Updated on February 26th, 2025 by Chelsea Steele: Anime is an ever-increasing market, with franchises raking in billions of dollars in sales through manga, merch, and more. While popular new titles will always be big sellers, the most iconic franchises have a staying power that's lasted for decades. We've updated this list to meet Cbr's current publication standard,...

Anime has a long history, dating as far back as the 1960s with Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy and even earlier than that. Since then, scores of anime series and films have come to fruition. From Studio Ghibli to Tms Entertainment, the industry has kept anime fans entertained throughout the decades and created masterpieces that are both a feast for the eyes and the soul.

A good anime film leaves impressions on its viewers that can last anywhere from an hour to a lifetime. Some titles have even affected the way future anime were written, influencing the genre in such a way that it changed the course of history. However hard they hit their audience or the industry, there are certain films today that every anime fan should have the pleasure of experiencing at least once.

RelatedLooking Back On the 10 Best Anime That Debuted in 2024

2024 introduced fans to some of...

The Back to the Future franchise took the 80s and 90s by storm. One of the most successful trilogies of all time, the sci-fi movies brought a fresh and entertaining perspective to the genre. As such, its undying popularity even decades later is not really a surprise.

A still from Back to the Future | Credits: Universal Pictures

In light of that, calls for a reboot or sequel to the original movies can be heard pretty often from around the world. To be fair, Hollywood’s obsession with doing exactly that also plays a massive part in that.

In any case, many wondered when would the Back to the Future franchise hop on that trend to capitalize on the continued fan fervor around the classics. Interestingly, the movie’s screenwriter recently gave an update on that very subject. As it stands, fans couldn’t agree with him more.

Back to the Future...

A diverse and uniquely appealing medium with countless devoted fans, anime has long since established its niche in mainstream pop culture. What has been considered an obscure and commonly misunderstood hobby in the past has now evolved into a booming worldwide cultural phenomenon acclaimed by general audiences and critics alike.

However, even if anime is more internationally accepted now than ever, plenty of people - even those deeply engrossed in other visual storytelling mediums, like film and TV - are still prejudiced against it, not recognizing anime as worthwhile. Be it due to the intrinsic mischaracterization of animation as “childish,” the lingering negative stereotypes, or the simple lack of exposure; many refuse to give anime a fair chance. Thankfully, these incredible anime films could help even the most skeptical movie buffs change their outlook on the medium.

Related10 Most Rewatchable Anime Films of All Time

Some anime films are so compelling they demand multiple viewings,...

The vast world of anime has gained quite a lot of recognition in the past few decades. The industry has become mainstream and is now considered one of the greatest art forms in the field of entertainment. It has taken center stage and will only continue to grow till the end of time.

Astro Boy Anime Series | Credit: Tezuka Productions

And while this growth feels exponentially incredible, the main reason behind this is the brilliantly created anime series and their protagonists, who have contributed the most by portraying a narrative that connected with fans. Among these protagonists, the ones that rank at the top are Luffy, Goku, Naruto, Ichigo Kurosaki, etc. They have helped the anime community earn global recognition and become an important part of the entertainment universe.

However, there is one protagonist who became globally famous before these Shonen protagonists. This main character was one of the first...

Discover the seven new titles streaming from February 1st!

Feature 1: Bridges Between Hearts

Stories of bonds transcending pain and hardship, inducing soul-searching and healing.

My Broken Mariko (2022)

Director: Tanada Yuki

Cast: Nagano Mei, Nao, Kubota Masataka

A road movie about a woman who goes on a journey carrying her dead best friend Mariko’s bones.

I am what I am (2022)

Director: Tamada Shinya

Cast: Miura Toko, Maeda Atsuko, Ito Marika, Kitamura Takumi

A film about “being your own cheerleader” as a woman, uninterested in romance, seeks to find a life of freedom without outside judgement.

Feature 2: Delicious Tales of Happiness

Itadakimasu! Celebrate the joy found in food and in sharing moments of connection and happiness.

The God of Ramen (2013)

Director: Innami Takashi

Cast: Yamagishi Kazuo

A moving documentary about the man who started a legendary ramen shop in Tokyo.

Bread of Happiness (2011)

Director: Mishima Yukiko

Cast: Harada Tomoyo,...

The Apollo's Song science fiction manga by Osamu Tezuka will now be adapted into a live-action TV drama beginning on February 18, 2025, premiering on Mainichi Broadcasting System and Tokyo Broadcasting System in Japan. Ken Ninomiya will write and direct the series, starring Shori Sato as Shogo Chikaishi and Akari Takaishi as Hiromi Watari . Apollo's Song Teaser Trailer Shonen Gahosha serialized the original Apollo's Song manga in their Weekly Shonen King manga magazine in 1970. Vertical, Inc. originally published an English language version of the series, and describes the story as follows: Apollo’s Song follows the tragic journey of Shogo, a young man whose abusive childhood has instilled in him a loathing for love so profound he finds himself compelled to acts of violence when he is witness to any act of intimacy or affection whether by human or beast. His hate is such that the gods intervene, cursing Shogo to experience...

With the sheer amount of anime available to be watched, it's hard to commit to a huge series like One Piece, Naruto, or even something like Dragon Ball. While those three series have a ton of strengths and plenty of reasons to watch them, they also come with hundreds of episodes and several movies to watch. Some anime series are able to tell their entire stories in just a single season, allowing the casual viewer to enjoy the whole story without committing huge chunks of their time.

A single anime season can vary in length, but they're never more than around 30 episodes. Some single-season animes can tell their tales in as little as 10 episodes, while some need closer to 25. No matter how many episodes there are in a season, it's never more than one chunk of a series, which makes them easier to watch and binge than some of their long-running counterparts.

Anime is one of the most celebrated art forms in the world, with a history stretching back more than 100 years and a significant international cultural legacy dating back to the 1960s. After the legendary cartoonist Osamu Tezuka created the template that most anime would base itself on with the classic Astro Boy, the form exploded into a juggernaut that continues to dominate film and television.

One of the oldest and most venerated anime series of all time is Speed Racer, becoming one of the first series to be successfully imported into America. When the legendary American directors the Wachowski sisters were able to adapt the classic anime Speed Racer into a live-action film, audiences were stunned by how faithful the adaptation was to the original source material.

The Wachowski Sisters Understand How to Adapt Anime

After decades of living in development hell, Lana and Lilly Wachowski teamed up with producer Joel Silver,...

Disney’s The Lion King is often celebrated as a masterpiece of animation, boasting breathtaking visuals, memorable music, and a timeless story of redemption and family. However, a long-standing controversy has been associated with this movie, specifically regarding its originality. Even during its release, many critics and fans argued that Disney’s 1994 blockbuster bears an uncanny resemblance to Osamu Tezuka’s groundbreaking manga and anime Kimba the White Lion.

Disney’s 1994 blockbuster “The Lion King” | Credit: Walt Disney

Osamu Tezuka’s manga Kimba the White Lion; known in Japan as Jungle Emperor, was first published in 1950 and its anime adaptation was broadcast on Japan’s Fuji Television during the 1960s. Despite Disney’s firm denials, the similarities between the two works have fueled debates for decades.

Osamu Tezuka’s Kimba the White Lion: A landmark in animation

Often referred to as the “God of manga”, Osamu Tezuka created Kimba the White Lion...

Quick Links How Astro Boy Predicted the Jurassic Park Series Was Jurassic Park Based On "Dinosaur Dilemma?" How Jurassic Park Built Upon a Legacy of Dinosaur Stories

Jurassic Park is one of the most influential stories in modern mythology, but a bizarre theory connects it to an iconic 61-year-old sci-fi series. Inspiration often comes from unexpected places. Without Akira Kurosawa's films, Star Wars might have been a very different story. Similarly, The Lion King is said to have been inspired by Kimba the White Lion and It! The Terror From Beyond Space reportedly inspired Alien. These examples raise questions about the fine line between homage, inspiration, and convergent evolution in pop culture. In the case of Jurassic Park, while it emerged as a defining blockbuster of the '90s, its origins may be traced back decades earlier to the legendary anime Astro Boy.

Debuting in 1952, Astro Boy (or Mighty Atom...

Anime, a genre that has recently captured the hearts of global audiences, has long served as an inspiration for Hollywood filmmakers, earning them recognition among the greats. 30 years ago, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ The Lion King made its debut in theaters, eventually becoming one of the most successful franchises of all time, spanning film, live theater, streaming, experiences, and beyond.

Simba, Timon, and Pumba iconic Walk | Credits: Walt Disney Studios

Over the years, numerous anime films have not only captivated viewers with their unique storytelling but also inspired adaptations and retellings in some of Hollywood’s most iconic films.

After the immense success of Mufasa: The Lion King, the photo-realistic animated prequel to The Lion King, Disney surpassed the $5 billion milestone, proving the franchise remains beloved by fans worldwide. While Disney’s Lion King franchise continues to break records and win over fans, many are unaware of the controversies regarding...

Warning: This post contains spoilers for Mufasa: The Lion King.Mufasa: The Lion King's villain stands out as a reminder of a long-standing controversy regarding the classic 1994 movie. Though the Disney prequel was largely considered an unnecessary addition to the franchise, Mufasa: The Lion King's reviews highlight its enhanced animation, affecting soundtrack, and, most importantly, a clever story that changes The Lion King canon in the best way. Like Simba's Pride, Mufasa's origin story builds Kiara's family tree and expands on their generational history, this time, focusing on the troubling relationship between Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) and Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) — later, Scar.

However, the movie's main villain is not Scar but a merciless outsider who seeks to kill all lion kings to gain sole power over all creatures. Notably, in Mufasa: The Lion King's ending, Simba's father fights Kiros (Mads Mikkelsen) and earns the...

For the longest time, Shojo as a genre has faced flak from the audience. Compared to Shonen, many readers and viewers have looked it down upon. It is a gross misconception that the genre caters simply to young women and girls.

This demographic, however, is changing for the better. For the past decade, the anime industry has given us some of the finest stories written by both men and women. But that isn’t the end, especially with the latest developments and updates.

Yona and Hak | Credit: Studio Pierrot

A Sign of Affection and My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 getting a second season is a piece of delightful news for most fans. This holds especially true for their riveting premise that reshaped the landscape of storytelling.

In retrospect, it leaves room for hope for several fans awaiting a second season for Yona of the Dawn. The series had...

Mufasa: The Lion King is a prequel/sequel to 2019's The Lion King, itself a remake of the 1994 animated classic. Mufasa sees Rafiki telling the story of Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) to his granddaughter, Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter). Kiara and the audience learn how Mufasa became king of the Pride Lands, how his brother Scar, formerly named Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), got his namesake, and how a rift grew between the brothers.

Mufasa's main antagonist is Kiros (Mads Mikkelsen), a white lion who looks to kill every bloodline so that he is the true Lion King. Mufasa: The Lion King's intent with Kiros is a commentary on colonization, but there might be another underlying reason behind making the villain of a Lion King movie, specifically a white lion. It all comes back to a popular manga, one that many have accused Disney of ripping off. While Disney has denied these claims,...

Osamu Tezuka reshaped Japanese pop culture with his manga "Astro Boy." In a future world, Japanese science minister Dr. Tenma loses his son Tobio in a car accident. He recreates Tobio as an android, Astro (known as Atom in the original Japanese). The manga is a futuristic reimagining of "Pinocchio" that becomes a superhero story.

You can trace Japan's love affair with robots to "Astro Boy" — modern mecha and shonen manga/anime wouldn't exist without it. Despite being foundational in Japan, Astro Boy isn't much of an icon in the United States. One attempt to import him, a 2009 CGI animated "Astro Boy" picture from Imagi Animation Studios, failed and left Imagi underwater.

Imagi was founded in Hong Kong in 2000, first producing the 2002 CGI cartoon series "Zentrix." In 2007, they secured a three-picture distribution deal with Warner Bros — the first fruit of that deal was the 2007 animated "Tmnt" film. "Tmnt" was a success,...

A recent report from Nhk World-Japan highlights how generative AI is being adopted in the anime and manga industries to ease production workloads and allow creators to focus on more creative aspects.

The report, which released on Dec 9 via Nhk’s YouTube channel, stated, “Manga and anime are a big part of Japanese culture. But they require a huge amount of work to produce. Now, AI is taking on some of that work, so humans can focus on the creative side.”

Generative AI and Anime

The Nhk report featured Nagoya-based studio K&k Design, which has Napping Princess and After School Dice Club among its credits, and its use of generative AI to create in-between animation frames.

According to the studio, this process, which traditionally takes one to two weeks, is reduced to four to five hours with the help of AI.

All the staff needs to do is give the...

It is a known fact that Osamu Tezuka revolutionized the manga industry. From Astro Boy to Metropolis, Tezuka created iconic masterpieces as a stalwart. The legendary mangaka is often referred to as the Godfather of anime.

Apart from his contributions to the manga industry, he influenced the advancements in the animation industry. On the whole, he was a true visionary with strong beliefs. Something that his son wouldn’t quite agree on.

A still from Astro Boy anime | Credit: Tezuka Productions

With AI-generated anime Twins Hinahima’s release, Tezuka’s son Makoto released a contentious statement. This contrasts with technological advancements that cripple the manga industry. It goes against Tezuka’s beliefs as a visionary and pioneer in every sense.

Moreover, his claims about the late mangaka accepting assistance from AI are beyond controversial. The upcoming series reflects utter dependency on technology and has garnered a negative reception from most anime viewers.