Anime

KPop Demon Hunters will be knocking select U.S. and Canadian theatres on 23rd and 24th August for a limited-time sing-along event, celebrating its hit music and global success.

‘Akira’ revolutionized animation by using 327 unique colours—including 50 created from scratch—to bring Neo-Tokyo to life. Its vivid, hand-crafted palette set a new visual standard, influencing anime, films, and games for decades to come.

In ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’, magic flies through the air in the form of shape-shifting wizards, enchanted doors, and fire demons.

In ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’, the titular structure is more than just a fantastical machine trudging across moors and mountains.

In ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’, one of the most mysterious and magical aspects of Sophie’s journey is how her age constantly shifts.

Whether you’re drawn to the fire demon with attitude or the vain wizard with a flair for drama, ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ has a character for

In ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’, Howl Pendragon is introduced as a glamorous and mysterious wizard—aloof, eccentric, and powerful.

Series like ‘Spirited Away’ and ‘Fullmetal Alchemist’ have intricate narratives that incorporate the archetypal hero's journey..

Toonami, the iconic programming block that brought anime to mainstream audiences, revolutionized the way Western viewers experienced Japanese

Toonami, the action-packed programming block launched in 1997 on Cartoon Network, became a cultural phenomenon that shaped the childhoods

Let’s explore how 'Rock the Dragon' became synonymous with Dragon Ball Z and helped cement Toonami as a cultural phenomenon.

Dragon Ball Z, the iconic anime series created by Akira Toriyama, is renowned for its intense battles and the ever-increasing power levels of

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) has captivated players worldwide since its inception, combining strategic gameplay with the thrill..

In the world of graphic storytelling, manga has established itself as a dominant cultural force, influencing not only the literary...

With films like Isao Takahata's ‘Grave of the Fireflies’ and Hayao Miyazaki's ‘Spirited Away’, Studio Ghibli has established a reputation for producing visually breathtaking animation and emotionally impactful storytelling. Nonetheless, one of its most notable pieces, ‘The Red Turtle’, which debuted in 2016, stands out due to its co-production with the French-Belgian studio Wild Bunch and the fact that it lacks spoken dialogue. Without using a single word, this short, which was directed by Dutch animator Michaël Dudok de Wit, masterfully examines issues of family, survival, and human existence. Image Courtesy: Variety Producer Toshio Suzuki's ambition to innovate in the studio served as the impetus for the project. He approached and asked Dudok de Wit, a director renowned for his hand-drawn animations, to develop a movie for Ghibli. Their partnership preserved a balance of artistic contribution, producing a movie that captures both Dudok de Wit's vision and Ghibli's essence. ‘The Red Turtle’ follows the story of a man who is left stranded on an isolated island. At the start of the story, he battles the turbulent sea before washing up on shore. A mysterious red turtle keeps stopping him as he tries to flee and build shelters, destroying his rafts in the process. The lack of conversation fosters a close relationship between the audience and the natural world by engrossing them in the ambient sounds. Image Courtesy: IMDb The turtle, who is initially viewed as an enemy, magically changes into a woman as the story progresses after the man turns it over. At this crucial juncture, the emphasis moves from simple survival to themes of love and friendship. By showing man's path from loneliness to familial connection and emphasizing the bond between humans and nature, the movie movingly tackles life's cycles.‘The Red Turtle’ asks viewers to consider the fleeting beauty of life through breathtaking imagery and a simple yet emotive animation style. –Farheen Ali

Studio Ghibli has been a powerhouse in Japanese animation for decades, producing iconic films like ‘Grave of the Fireflies’, ‘Castle in the Sky’, ‘Kiki's Delivery Service’, ‘Howl's Moving Castle’, and ‘Spirited Away’. Recently, Hayao Miyazaki’s latest film, ‘The Boy and the Heron’, won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. This year also marks the tenth anniversary of Hiromasa Yonebayashi's ‘When Marnie Was There’, an adaptation of Joan G. Robinson’s 1967 novel. The film features talented voice actors, including Sara Takatsuki, Kasumi Arimura, Nanako Matsushima, and Susumu Terajima in the Japanese version, alongside an impressive English cast featuring Hailee Steinfeld, Kiernan Shipka, Catherine O'Hara, and John C. Reilly. While ‘When Marnie Was There’ lacks the fantastical elements present in other Ghibli films, it compensates with a deeply moving story that resonates emotionally. Image Courtesy: Collider The narrative centers on twelve-year-old Anna Sasaki, voiced by Sara Takatsuki and Hailee Steinfeld, a shy girl with no friends. The film opens with Anna observing a playground from a distance, illustrating her isolation. Following her doctor’s recommendation, Anna is sent to stay with her relatives in a beautiful seaside village, where she hopes to find some relief from her gloom. There, she meets Marnie, a mysterious girl from a wealthy family, and the two quickly form a close bond. While Studio Ghibli is known for its stunning hand-drawn animation, ‘When Marnie Was There’ focuses on everyday life rather than fantastical elements. Image Courtesy: Collider Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, who has a long history with Ghibli, the film highlights the beauty in simple moments, showcasing rich details that draw the audience into its world. The connection between Anna and Marnie unfolds gradually, revealing hidden depths and emotional layers as the story progresses, ultimately leading to a surprising and heartfelt conclusion. –Farheen Ali

In 'Naruto,' the role of Hokage is one of immense responsibility. These leaders are not just figureheads; they are the heart and soul of Konoha, guiding the village through peace and conflict alike. Among the eight Hokage featured throughout the series, one stands out for her unique blend of power, skill, and unwavering resolve: Tsunade, the Fifth Hokage. Tsunade's journey to becoming Hokage is far from typical. Initially, she abandoned the shinobi life following the tragic deaths of her brother and lover, shunning the notion of Hokage altogether. However, during the 'Search for Tsunade' arc, Naruto's persistence convinces her to accept the role, showcasing a leadership style that is both distinctive and effective. Also Read: Who Are The 9 Hokages in ‘Naruto’? Image Courtesy: SR Before her tenure as Hokage, Tsunade was already a legendary figure, having been part of the renowned Team Sannin alongside Jiraiya and Orochimaru. Her combat skills are exceptional, particularly her defensive taijutsu, which allowed her to break through Madara's Susano'o during the Fourth Shinobi World War. Yet, her true prowess lies in medical ninjutsu. As the greatest medical nin in history, Tsunade's expertise in healing and her diagnostic skills are unparalleled. This focus on medical care highlights her belief that medical personnel should be shielded from the battlefield, a view that influences her decisions as Hokage. Image Courtesy: CBR Tsunade's leadership is evident in her strategic decisions, such as deploying Team 7 to rescue the kidnapped Kazekage, a fellow Jinchuriki. Her innovative thinking and faith in her shinobi, especially Naruto, are central to her approach. During the Pain's Assault arc, she works tirelessly to provide aid and healing to countless civilians and shinobi, even sacrificing all her Chakra to protect Konoha, leaving her in a coma. In the aftermath of Pain's assault, Tsunade focuses on rebuilding Konoha with an emphasis on enhancing medical infrastructure. This forward-thinking approach contrasts with the immediate protection priorities of her predecessors. She also played a critical role in the formation of the Allied Shinobi Forces during the Fourth Great Ninja War, showcasing her dedication to long-term peace and collaboration. Image Courtesy: Naruto Wiki Tsunade's legacy extends beyond her immediate actions. Her mentorship of Naruto and Sakura ensures that Konoha's future is in capable hands. Her influence is seen in Sakura's development as a formidable medical nin and in Naruto's acquisition of the Rasengan, a technique central to his combat style. Despite her significant contributions, Tsunade often seems undervalued compared to other Hokage, partly due to her extensive screen time. However, her unique combination of Hashirama's empathy and Tobirama's pragmatism, along with her ability to reflect Naruto's themes of love and empathy, make her an exceptional Hokage. Image Courtesy: IMDb Tsunade's story is a testament to the complexities and challenges of leadership. Her dedication, strategic acumen, and empathetic approach to governance demonstrate why she remains one of the most memorable Hokage in 'Naruto.' She might not be flawless, but her achievements and the depth of her character make her a fitting embodiment of the Hokage's ideal.

Yūki Tabata's beloved fantasy series, 'Black Clover,' is drawing to a close. With the release of chapters #372 and #373 just around the corner, fans are eagerly anticipating an explosive showdown. The transition from Weekly Shonen Jump to Jump GIGA wasn't easy, but it has allowed Tabata to maintain a high artistic quality and consistency, with a more manageable workload. 'Black Clover' entered its final arc in chapter #332, released in August 2022. The impending conclusion is both thrilling and bittersweet for fans, as they prepare to say goodbye to this fantastic Shonen series. With 'Black Clover' joining the ranks of My Hero Academia in finishing its run, the anticipation for the grand finale is palpable. Also Read: Will ‘Spice & Wolf’ Anime’s Reboot Be Better Than The Original? Image Courtesy: IGN The upcoming chapters promise a dramatic clash involving Asta, Yuno, and the formidable Lucius Zogratis. In chapter #370, we see Asta and Yuno gearing up to face Lucius' true form as he prepares a colossal spell over the Clover Kingdom. Lucius' plan to kill and resurrect humanity into immortal beings under his control sets the stage for a high-stakes battle. Fans are also speculating about the potential appearance of other devils, such as Astaroth, Beelzebub, Adramelech, and Lucifugus, adding further tension to the storyline. One of the most exciting developments in recent chapters has been the power boost for the Black Bulls, enhanced by Asta's anti-magic. As they prepare for the final confrontation with Lucius, their trust in Asta and Yuno is unwavering. Expect more devil confrontations, especially following the intense battles involving Mereoleona, Moris, and Lucius' clones. Image Courtesy: IGN Joining the Black Bulls in this ultimate fight are other beloved Magic Knights, including captains Charlotte Roselei, William Vengeance, and Rill Boismortier. The stakes are high, and it remains uncertain if any more characters will make the ultimate sacrifice for the Clover Kingdom. The switch to Jump GIGA has allowed for a seasonal release schedule, which has significantly improved the quality of recent chapters. While fans might find the wait for new instalments frustrating, the payoff has been worth it. This gradual, well-paced sendoff is a far cry from the rushed chapters of the past, ensuring that 'Black Clover' receives the conclusion it deserves.

Netflix has officially announced that their latest Gundam series, 'Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance,' is set to premiere on October 17, 2024. The streaming service has dropped a new trailer revealing plot details and setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting addition to the Gundam franchise. In a departure from the previous Gundam series, 'Requiem for Vengeance' will present its story through fully CGI animation, offering a fresh perspective by focusing on the chaos experienced by soldiers on the ground rather than the traditional Gundam pilots. This shift aims to bring a new dimension to the beloved series, known for its epic space battles and giant mechs. Also Read: Anime That Did Not Deserve to Be Cancelled Image Courtesy: IMDb The Gundam franchise, which has captivated audiences worldwide since its inception, revolves around the conflict between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon. With over 50 anime series, films, manga, video games, and model kits, Yoshiyuki Tomino's creation remains a cultural phenomenon. Netflix, already a major player in the Gundam universe, will also be releasing the film 'Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom' on September 1, 2024, just weeks before 'Requiem for Vengeance.' 'Requiem for Vengeance' is set during the final months of the One-Year War, moving away from the space battles Gundam is known for and instead focusing on guerrilla warfare on Earth. The series centres on Zeon pilot Iria Sorari and her Red Wolves battalion, tasked with defending the European front from the Earth Federation's advances. The trailer hints at a gripping portrayal of the destruction wrought by giant robots, creating a visceral experience akin to the impact of a kaiju attack. Unlike previous Gundam instalments, this series reimagines the conflict by casting the Principality of Zeon as the protagonist, with the Earth Federation's Gundam being dubbed the "White Devil". It continues to explore Gundam’s classic themes of love and war, set against a backdrop of intense battles and dramatic explosions. Produced in collaboration with Bandai Namco and SUNRISE studios using Unreal Engine 5 technology, 'Requiem for Vengeance' promises a high level of realism in its animation. Although the human characters may not move as fluidly as hoped, the Mobile Suits are rendered with impressive detail, enhancing the overall visual experience. Image Courtesy: Netflix The series will consist of six episodes, each about 30 minutes long, and will be released weekly. Directed by Erasmus Brosdau and featuring Celia Massingham as Iria Sorari, 'Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance' is set to offer a fresh and thrilling take on the Gundam saga.

'Attack on Titan' is one of the greatest manga and anime series ever told. A key reason for its acclaim is Hajime Isayama’s masterful use of foreshadowing, keeping audiences constantly guessing as the story unfolds. From the outset, the anime discreetly planted clues that hinted at future plot twists and the conclusion. These hints often went unnoticed on the first watch, but in hindsight, they become strikingly clear. This realisation has prompted many fans to revisit the series, eager to uncover what they initially missed. Isayama’s talent lies in weaving these hints into the narrative through symbolic imagery, character interactions, and seemingly insignificant scenes. This level of narrative foresight is rare in anime, making for a captivating experience for both new and returning viewers. The careful placement of these elements and the non-linear storytelling encourage a deeper analysis and appreciation of the anime’s complexity, redefining the art of story crafting. Also Read: Who Killed The Most Titans in ‘Attack on Titan’? Image Courtesy: Collider From the very first scene, where Eren’s cryptic dream offers a foreboding hint, 'Attack on Titan' sets the stage for its intricate plot. An early example is in episode three of season one, where smoke rises from Eren’s head. Initially seen as a comical depiction of his frustration with ODM gear, it later reveals itself as a subtle hint at his titan-shifting ability. Scenes like this are scattered throughout the anime, making rewatching a rewarding experience as viewers uncover layers of meaning Isayama embedded from the start. This approach has redefined anime storytelling, encouraging fans to scrutinise every detail and anticipate connections between seemingly minor moments. These clues' subtlety builds suspense and deepens character arcs, revealing the true significance of earlier overlooked moments. Image Courtesy: IGN The foreshadowing is further enhanced by the complex and disjointed narrative structure Isayama employs. By interlinking past and future events, the series allows foreshadowed elements to emerge naturally, creating an intricate and cohesive narrative. A prime example is the revelation of Eren’s ability to access past and future memories, which leads to the understanding that everything is predestined. These revelations deepen viewer engagement, drawing fans further into the plot as pieces slowly come together. Isayama’s non-linear approach, meticulously planned, enables him to weave hints throughout the anime’s run deftly. The complexity and beauty of this narrative technique elevate the series, setting a new standard for anime storytelling. Through foreshadowing and non-linear perspectives, 'Attack on Titan' has crafted a story that encourages fans to continually reinterpret and reanalyse the plot, establishing itself as a true icon in the world of anime.