7.7 / 10 (based on 10864 reviews)
In a world of anthropomorphic animals, a reclusive wolf’s complicated relationship with a kindly rabbit is tested by a classmate’s murder, a charismatic deer’s influence, and his own burgeoning predatory instincts.
Genre: Animation, Crime, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Romance, Thriller
Main Cast: Chikahiro Kobayashi, Jonah Scott, Lara Jill Miller, Griffin Puatu
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 25 episodes, 23-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Beastars (2019)
Great Pretender (2020)
7.9 / 10 (based on 5732 reviews)
A Japanese conman crosses paths with a French rival, and gets entangled in conspiracies and scams beyond his wildest dreams.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Chiaki Kobayashi, Jun’ichi Suwabe, Natsumi Fujiwara, Wolf Williams
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Dorohedoro (2020)
8.1 / 10 (based on 9543 reviews)
In a sad town a clan of sorcerers use its people to experiment with the dark arts.
Genre: Animation, Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Horror
Main Cast: Wataru Takagi, Reina Kondou, Ken’yû Horiuchi, Yoshimasa Hosoya
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
Kakegurui (2017)
7.2 / 10 (based on 10820 reviews)
A gambling prodigy comes to an elite school run by games and turns the order upside down.
Genre: Animation, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Saori Hayami, Tatsuya Tokutake, Miyuki Sawashiro, Minami Tanaka
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 24 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Aggretsuko (2018)
8 / 10 (based on 6823 reviews)
Frustrated with her thankless office job, the 25-year-old red panda copes with her daily struggles by belting out heavy metal karaoke after work.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Drama, Music, Musical, Romance
Main Cast: Ben Diskin, Erica Mendez, G.K. Bowes, Tara Platt
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 41 episodes, 15.0-minute runtime
Saiki Kusuo no Psi Nan (2016)
8.3 / 10 (based on 8545 reviews)
Saiki Kusuo is a powerful psychic who hates attracting attention, yet he is surrounded by colorful characters who always find a way to remove him from his everyday life.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Fantasy
Main Cast: Hiroshi Kamiya, Daisuke Ono, Nobunaga Shimazaki, Ai Kayano
Creators: Shûichi Asô
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 146 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Yakusoku no Neverland (2019)
8.3 / 10 (based on 40571 reviews)
When three gifted kids at an isolated idyllic orphanage discover the secret and sinister purpose they were raised for, they look for a way to escape from their evil caretaker and lead the other children in a risky escape plan.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Horror, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main Cast: Sumire Morohoshi, Mariya Ise, Shinei Ueki, Lynn
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 23 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Kiseijû: Sei no kakuritsu (2014)
8.3 / 10 (based on 41043 reviews)
17-year-old Shinichi Izumi is partially infected by a Parasyte, monsters that butcher and consume humans. He must learn to co-exist with the creature if he is to survive both the life of a Parasyte and a human as part monster, part person.
Genre: Animation, Action, Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main Cast: Brittney Karbowski, Nobunaga Shimazaki, Adam Gibbs, Aya Hirano
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes, 22.0-minute runtime
Kiru ra kiru: KILL la KILL (2013)
7.9 / 10 (based on 15224 reviews)
A young girl arrives at a school of superhumans to find out the truth behind her father’s murder.
Genre: Animation, Action, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Ami Koshimizu, Aya Suzaki, Toshihiko Seki, Shin’ichirô Miki
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 25 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
Made in Abyss (2017)
8.4 / 10 (based on 12523 reviews)
A girl and her robot companion search for her mother, who’s lost within a vast chasm.
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Miyu Tomita, Mariya Ise, Luci Christian, Brittany Lauda
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 14 episodes, 325.0-minute runtime
In the world of television, where the landscape is dominated by a mix of reality TV, sitcoms, and high-budget dramas, an anime like “Beastars” emerges as a refreshing departure from the norm. This series, which first hit screens in 2019, has carved a unique niche for itself, captivating audiences with its intricate storytelling, deep characters, and a setting that’s as unusual as it is fascinating. Let’s explore what makes “Beastars” stand out in the crowded realm of TV shows.
The Setting: A World of Anthropomorphic Animals
At first glance, “Beastars” might remind viewers of a children’s cartoon, given its cast of anthropomorphic animals. However, this initial impression couldn’t be further from the truth. The series is set in a civilized society of carnivores and herbivores, coexisting with an undercurrent of tension and mistrust. The Cherryton Academy, a boarding school, serves as the primary setting where much of the drama unfolds.
This backdrop is not just for show. It’s a critical component of the narrative, exploring themes of predation, societal expectations, and personal identity. The animalistic traits of the characters aren’t merely cosmetic but are integral to their personalities and societal roles, making the setting a rich ground for storytelling.
The Plot: A Tale of Mystery, Romance, and Self-Discovery
“Beastars” kicks off with a gripping mystery—the murder of Tem, an alpaca student at Cherryton Academy. This event sets the stage for the series, introducing us to a world where the line between friend and foe is blurred by primal instincts. The main character, Legoshi, a large but timid gray wolf, becomes embroiled in the investigation, leading to a journey of self-discovery, romance, and conflict.
The plot weaves through Legoshi’s struggle with his carnivorous nature, his budding yet complicated relationship with Haru, a dwarf rabbit, and his interactions with Louis, a charismatic red deer with lofty ambitions. These personal stories are set against the backdrop of the larger societal issues plaguing their world, making “Beastars” a multifaceted narrative that explores the complexities of identity, love, and societal roles.
The Characters: Deep, Complex, and Unpredictable
One of the series’ strongest points is its character development. Legoshi, Haru, and Louis are not your typical anime protagonists. They are deeply flawed, relatable, and undergo significant growth throughout the series.
Legoshi is the embodiment of the gentle giant trope, yet his journey is anything but predictable. His struggle with his carnivorous instincts and his feelings for Haru make him a compelling protagonist whose actions and motivations are deeply human, despite his wolfish exterior.
Haru, often judged and marginalized because of her size and species, is a complex character who challenges the stereotypes about strength and vulnerability. Her relationship with Legoshi is both tender and fraught with societal taboos, adding layers to her character and the story.
Louis is the antithesis of Legoshi—confident, ambitious, and seemingly unafraid to step on others to achieve his goals. However, his backstory and the pressures he faces reveal a character much more nuanced than the typical antagonist.
These characters, along with a diverse supporting cast, drive the narrative forward, making “Beastars” a character-driven story where motivations are questioned, and no one is purely good or evil.
The Themes: A Reflection of Our World
“Beastars” excels in using its unique setting and characters to explore themes that resonate deeply with real-world issues. The tension between carnivores and herbivores serves as an allegory for racial and societal discrimination, examining how fear and prejudice can shape individuals and communities.
The series also delves into themes of identity and self-acceptance, challenging characters to confront who they are and who they want to be in a world that often seeks to define them by their most basic instincts. The complex relationships and societal roles add layers to these themes, making “Beastars” a thought-provoking watch.
The Animation: A Blend of Traditional and Modern Techniques
The animation style of “Beastars” is another aspect that sets it apart. Produced by Studio Orange, the series employs a blend of CGI and traditional animation, creating a visually stunning experience that complements the storytelling. This approach allows for fluid character movements and expressive facial animations, bringing the anthropomorphic characters to life in a way that traditional animation alone might not achieve.
The use of lighting and color also plays a significant role in setting the mood and highlighting the dualities within the world of “Beastars”—from the dark, foreboding alleys that hint at the dangers lurking in their society to the vibrant school settings where much of the drama unfolds.
The Impact: A Cult Favorite and Critical Acclaim
Since its release, “Beastars” has garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim, praised for its storytelling, character development, and thematic depth. It challenges viewers to think deeply about the issues it presents, making it a standout series in the anime genre and beyond.
The series has sparked discussions on societal norms, identity, and the nature of predation, showcasing the power of animation to explore complex issues. Its success has also led to a renewed interest in adult-oriented animated series, proving that animation can be a medium for serious storytelling.
Conclusion
“Beastars” is more than just an anime about anthropomorphic animals navigating high school life. It’s a deeply engaging series that tackles complex themes, boasts well-developed characters, and offers a unique visual experience. Whether you’re a fan of animation or simply looking for a thought-provoking series that challenges conventions, “Beastars” is a must-watch. Its blend of mystery, drama, and romance, set in a world as intriguing as it is divided, makes it a standout show that continues to captivate and provoke thought long after the credits roll.