The rights holders of the Terminator franchise had planned a Termination collection of animated shorts created by leading European and Japanese "auteurs" in 2008, but the project was not released in the following year as planned. Termination would have focused on Judgment Day, the pivotal day in the Terminator franchise's multiple storylines when the Skynet defense system would launch nuclear weapons that destroy much of humanity. The iconic T-800 robot is a time-traveling weapon of Skynet, and it has been both the antagonist and protagonist in the various Terminator projects since the first film in 1984.
The T-800 did make an official, authorized cameo (pictured above) in the long-running Doraemon television anime series in June 2009. The Doraemon anime's title character is a time-traveling robot cat from the future, and the "dream matchup" was described in the Japanese press as a confrontation between America and Japan's robots. (The Terminator: Salvation film opened in Japan on June 13, 2009, two weeks before the promotional Doraemon cameo.)
Lookism, adapted from the South Korean webtoon illustrated by Park Tae-joon, follows Daniel, a high school student ostracized and bullied for his perceived unattractive appearance. However, when a mysterious incident happens, Daniel wakes to find himself in a new, more appealing body and suddenly everyone treats him better.
My Happy Marriage is about Miyo, who has had a rough life since childhood. Born from an arranged marriage, she endures all sorts of abuse in her home. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she is married to Kiyoka Kudou, who proves to be everything she never expected.
Taking place in what seems like a European Medieval age, this anime series, based on a Japanese Manga, follows princess Elizabeth as she enlists the help of forgotten warriors, known as the Seven Deadly Sins, to retake her kingdom from Holy Knights. With lots of swearing, violence, and morally ambiguous characters, this one is clearly not for kids.
Created by Amber Noizumi and Michael Green, Blue Eye Samurai tells the story of Mizu (voiced by Maya Erskine), a vengeful samurai seeking her revenge against the man responsible for her mixed-race identity. Premiering on Netflix in November 2023, it has already been renewed for a second season, which will be a delight for those who appreciate its aesthetics and compelling plot.
In just a few months of its release, Blue Eye Samurai has garnered a remarkable score on rating sites, a clear sign of both fans and critics' admiration. Blue Spirit Studios has succeeded in creating one of the best anime series on Netflix. Boasting a classic revenge tale, a strong woman lead, and an unending display of violence and gore, many have likened this to iconic titles like Kill Bill and John Wick.
Directed by Shinichiro Watanbe, Carole & Tuesday is a 24-episode series that takes a break from the fighting and gore typically found in anime series to focus on music. Taking place in a futuristic setting, the plot follows Tuesday and Carole, two young girls from different worlds and backgrounds brought together by their shared passion for music.
Dorohedro is the ideal pick for fans of action, dark fantasy, and science fiction. Set in a near post-apocalyptic future, it follows an amnesiac reptile-headed Caiman as he works with his friend Nikaido to recover his memories.
Dorohedro is a bizarre anime that is certainly not for everyone. With 12 episodes packed with violence, graphic content, including sex, drugs, and a mysterious and convoluted plot, it is certain to mess with minds. The outstanding soundtrack plays a crucial role in transporting viewers into this violent and magical alternate universe with a unique way of life. Gritty, dark and humorous, it will remind viewers of anime from the 2000s.
Cowboy Bebop, a classic anime series that first premiered in 1998, remains highly esteemed for its unique blend of genres, compelling characters, and outstanding soundtrack. Set in a futuristic world where humans have colonized other planets, it follows the lives of a group of bounty hunters aboard the Bebop spaceship. Each member of the crew has their own personality, with their pasts gradually unveiled through episodic storytelling.
Seamlessly combining elements of space western, jazz, comedy, film noir, and Cyberpunk, Cowboy Bebop succeeds in creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. The animation quality is top-notch, and the series showcases fluid action sequences and dynamic visuals. It is one of the greatest anime ever made.
Written and Illustrated by Makoto Yukimura, this beloved Norse mythology anime series, spans 42 episodes and tells the story of Thorfinn, a young boy driven by the desire to avenge his father. As he embarks on this quest, facing numerous challenges, the series brings to light the themes of power, loyalty, and the toll of war on individuals and society.
Vinland Saga stands out with its beautifully written characters, detailed world-building, magnificent storytelling, impressive cinematography, and fluid animation. A slow-burn at times and fast-paced at others, it deviates from the usual anime plot formulas, making it hard to predict where the story is headed. Thanks to its high-quality storytelling and distinctive style, Vinland Saga remains a popular and revered anime series on Netflix and beyond.
Celebrated for its stunning animation, intense action sequences, and unique characters, Demon Slayer is yet another fine anime series that will appeal to both genre buffs and newcomers. The well-developed characters enable the audience to empathize with them, making viewers eager to know how their story ends. Even the soundtrack is like a secret ingredient that makes it more epic.
Baki is one of the many adaptations of the manga Grappler Baki, written and illustrated by Keisuke Itagaki, that are available to stream on Netflix. The story revolves around Baki, an ambitious and skilled young martial artist obsessed with surpassing his father, the strongest creature on Earth. As Baki battles through various, gripping competitions, the series offers viewers an in-depth glimpse into the underworld of martial arts and the eccentric fighters that exist within.
Baki excels in visceral and intense martial arts battles that feature a wide array of characters with unique fighting styles and backgrounds. Unapologetically embracing violence and mature themes, the anime is suitable for audiences who appreciate these elements in the martial arts genre.
Due to its significant impact on the genre and its exploration of deep, thought-provoking themes, Neon Genesis Evangelion is often considered a must-watch for every fan of anime. However, its emotional intensity, ambiguous and open-ended nature may make it challenging for some viewers to follow or interpret. That being said, some viewers embrace it for this philosophical and psychological depth. Like other anime series in this collection, the series earns acclaim for its well-structured dysfunctional characters, innovative storytelling and extremely unique animation.
Based on the Manga of the same name, Hunter x Hunter follows the adventures of a young boy named Gon Freecs, who aspires to become a hunter like his father. The series explores his journey, his friendship with Killua, and his encounters with challenges like the Hunter Exam and other adversaries.
People love Hunter x Hunter for its intricate world-building, compelling characters, strategic battles, and its exploration of profound themes. The series is praised for defying typical Shōnen tropes by providing unexpected twists and maintaining a consistently high quality in both storytelling and animation. Amidst the fights of bravery, despair, and hope, viewers forge connections with the likable characters. The series may initially seem childish, but as the plot develops, it becomes incredibly dark, making it a must-watch for fans of well-written anime.
Despite its fair amount of exaggerated violence and surreal aesthetic, this adventurous masterpiece proves irresistibly addictive. From Phantom Blood, Battle Tendency, Golden Wind, and others, each part offers a unique and entertaining viewing experience. While being bizarre, it has an emotional core that draws viewers into the story of its incredible characters. With a unique and different narrative in each part, viewers can choose to start with any part they prefer.
Known for its intense and mature themes, as well as its distinctive animation style, Devilman Crybaby tells the story of Akira Fudo, a compassionate and timid high-school student who becomes embroiled in a demonic conflict. To combat demons who threaten humanity, Akira merges with one, remaining human at heart.
With its thought-provoking narrative, which tackles provocative and controversial themes, and its visceral depiction of violence and other graphic content, this miniseries is not for the faint-hearted. Serving as a very effective horror-tragedy anime, it will leave many with chilling thoughts even after its conclusion. The concept, both deep and dark, is sometimes humorous and other times shocking. It is a high-quality show different from many others.
The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. works as a comedy, slice-of-life, and supernatural anime, all rolled into one spectacular series that is adapted from the manga of the same name, written and illustrated by Shuichi Aso. The story revolves around Kusuo Saiki, a high school student with psychic abilities who wants to lead a normal life, but those around him make it practically impossible for him. Thus, he must deal with the comedic chaos that is his life.
Set in a cyberpunk universe, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners shares ties with the video game Cyberpunk 2077 by CD Projekt Red, though it is described as a standalone series. In this dystopian world of Night City, the story of David Maritnezz unfolds. After losing everything in a drive-by shooting, this talented street kid decides to join the wrong side of the law.
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