5.6 / 10 (based on 10 reviews)
An alien sheriff comes to Earth to stop four alien criminals from laying waste to it.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Musical, Romance, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Satoshi Hino, Takuya Eguchi, Rie Takahashi, Kenichi Suzumura
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes
Shows Most Like Muteking the Dancing Hero (2021)
Kyûketsuki Sugu Shinu (2021)
6.8 / 10 (based on 280 reviews)
A vampire so weak he dies at the slightest attack gets his home destroyed by an enthusiastic but inept vampire hunter. Now the two are forced to stay together and work as a team on hunting down vampires.
Genre: Animation, Comedy
Main Cast: Kimmie Britt, Jun Fukuyama, Makoto Furukawa, Alan Adelberg
Creators: Itaru Bonnoki
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Tesla Note (2021)
5.7 / 10 (based on 38 reviews)
None
Genre: Animation, Action
Main Cast:
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 13 episodes
Tsuki to Laika to Nosferatu (2021)
6.7 / 10 (based on 331 reviews)
In an alternate 1960s, a space program recruits a vampire to serve as an astronaut and go into space.
Genre: Animation, Drama, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Megumi Hayashibara, Koki Uchiyama, Hina Kino, Takaya Hashi
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Heike Monogatari (2021)
7.6 / 10 (based on 398 reviews)
The Taira clan, also known as the Heike, holds immense authority over Japan. When a young girl, gifted with an odd eye that allows her to see the future, foolishly disrespects the clan, her father pays the price of her crime with his life. Soon after, as fate would have it, Taira no Shigemori-the eldest son of the clan leader-stumbles upon the same unfortunate girl, who now calls herself “Biwa.” Biwa informs him that the downfall of the Heike is imminent. After learning of the great injustice Biwa suffered at the Heike’s hands, Shigemori vows to take her in and care for her rather than let her be killed. In an era of rising military tension, the Heike are in the midst of a cunning struggle for power, and bloodstained war is on the horizon. Shigemori, whose eyes allow him to see spirits of the dead, is both anxious and hopeful to prevent his clan’s demise. Biwa, however, is reluctant to reveal the future to him and must adapt to her new life filled with both happiness and sorrow in this pivotal chapter in Japanese history.
Genre: Animation, Drama, History, War
Main Cast: Rachel Robinson, Aoi Yûki, Saori Hayami, Miyu Irino
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 11 episodes
Visual Prison (2021)
7.1 / 10 (based on 63 reviews)
A powerful vampire musical contest under the Scarlet Moon. The winner is bestowed the ultimate power that can change the world.
Genre: Animation, Music
Main Cast: Nobunaga Shimazaki, Makoto Furukawa, Takuya Eguchi, Shoya Chiba
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 5 episodes
Shinka No Mi: Shiranai Uchi ni Kachigumi Jinsei (2021)
6.1 / 10 (based on 831 reviews)
A fat schoolkid is thrown into a fantasy world and must team up with a female gorilla to survive.
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
Main Cast: Hiro Shimono, Kana Hanazawa, Marina Inoue, Yôko Hikasa
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Puraore! Pride of Orange (2021)
6.3 / 10 (based on 37 reviews)
The story takes place in Nikko city, Tochigi Prefecture, where girls aim for the top of the world through ice hockey.
Genre: Animation, Sport
Main Cast: Riku Masuda, Saika Kitamori, Mayu Sagara, Asuka Shiori
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru (2021)
5.9 / 10 (based on 119 reviews)
Two psychics team up to solve a string of murders, and along their investigations develop a romantic connection.
Genre: Animation, Fantasy, Mystery, Romance
Main Cast: Jun’ichi Suwabe, Nobunaga Shimazaki, Sôma Saitô, Wataru Hatano
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 9 episodes
Senpai ga Uzai Kouhai no Hanashi (2021)
7.4 / 10 (based on 996 reviews)
Igarashi Futuba’s new job would be great if her senpai, Takeda Harumi, wasn’t so incredibly annoying. Futuba hates his laugh, she hates how big he is, and she really hates that he treats her like a little kid. Just because Futuba is short and looks young doesn’t make her a kid, and just because she spends so much time with Takeda doesn’t mean she sees him as anything but an annoying senpai – or does she?
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Tomori Kusunoki, Shunsuke Takeuchi, Saori Hayami, Akio Ôtsuka
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Shin no Nakama ja Nai to Yuusha no Party o Oidasareta node, Henkyou de Slow Life Suru Koto ni Shimashita (2021)
6.7 / 10 (based on 1126 reviews)
Red was once a member of the Hero’s party, a powerful group destined to save the world from the evil forces of Taraxon, the Raging Demon Lord. That is, until one of his comrades kicked him out. Hoping to live the easy life on the frontier, Red’s new goal is to open an apothecary. However, keeping the secret of his former life may not be as simple as he thinks. Especially when the beautiful Rit, an adventurer from his past, shows up and asks to move in with him.
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
Main Cast: Ryouta Suzuki, Kanon Takao, Sora Amamiya, Rie Kugimiya
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 13 episodes
Sacks & Guns!! (2021)
6 / 10 (based on 155 reviews)
None
Genre: Animation, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Anne Yatco, Cristina Valenzuela
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
In the world of television, where reboots and remakes are as common as morning coffee, there’s a particular joy in discovering shows that manage to stand out, not just for their novelty, but for their ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary themes. One such show that has danced its way into the spotlight is “Muteking the Dancing Hero,” a vibrant reboot of the 1980s Japanese series. This reboot, which aired in 2021, has not only captured the essence of its predecessor but has also introduced a fresh, modern twist to its storytelling, animation, and music.
A Blast from the Past with a Modern Beat
“Muteking the Dancing Hero” is a colorful homage to the original series, “Tondemo Senshi Muteking,” which was a hit in Japan during the early 80s. The show was known for its quirky characters, catchy music, and, of course, its dancing hero. Fast forward to 2021, and the reboot has managed to keep the core elements that made the original beloved while updating its setting, themes, and visuals to resonate with today’s audience.
Set in Neo San Francisco, the story follows Muteki, a cheerful and somewhat naive young boy with a knack for dancing. His life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters an alien named DJ, who grants him the power to transform into Muteking, a roller-skating, dance-fighting hero tasked with protecting the city from bizarre, music-hating aliens.
Characters That Dance Off the Page
One of the show’s strengths lies in its diverse cast of characters, each bringing their unique flavor to the narrative. Muteki, with his unwavering optimism and infectious energy, serves as a beacon of hope in a city overshadowed by alien threats. DJ, the alien who becomes Muteki’s mentor and friend, adds a layer of mystery and depth to the storyline, guiding Muteki not just in battles but in understanding the power of music and dance.
The villains, or rather, the music-hating aliens, are not your typical antagonists. Their motivations go beyond mere world domination, touching on themes of cultural assimilation, identity, and the impact of technology on society. This nuanced approach to storytelling adds a layer of complexity to the show, making it appealing to both younger audiences and adults.
Animation That Moves to the Beat
The animation in “Muteking the Dancing Hero” is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors, fluid movements, and dynamic battle sequences are a testament to the advancements in animation technology since the 80s. The show seamlessly blends traditional 2D animation with 3D elements, creating a visual experience that is both nostalgic and cutting-edge.
Music and dance are at the heart of “Muteking,” and the animation reflects this. Dance battles are a common occurrence, with Muteki’s moves not just serving as entertainment but as a powerful weapon against his foes. The choreography is meticulously animated, capturing the essence of various dance styles, from hip hop to breakdancing, and even ballet.
A Soundtrack That Deserves Its Own Spotlight
No discussion of “Muteking the Dancing Hero” would be complete without mentioning its soundtrack. The show features an eclectic mix of genres, from disco and funk to electronic and J-pop, each track adding depth to the scenes and character moments. The opening theme, a modern reinterpretation of the original’s, sets the tone for the series, inviting viewers to join Muteki on his rhythmic adventure.
The music plays a crucial role in the narrative, symbolizing the show’s themes of unity, expression, and the transformative power of art. It’s not just background noise; it’s a character in its own right, driving the story forward and connecting with the audience on an emotional level.
Why “Muteking the Dancing Hero” Matters
In an era where television is saturated with content, “Muteking the Dancing Hero” stands out for its ability to blend the old with the new, creating something that feels both familiar and fresh. It’s a show that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet it tackles relevant themes with grace and humor.
For fans of the original, the reboot is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, offering a new perspective on the characters and story they grew up with. For new viewers, it’s an introduction to a world where music and dance can save the day, a reminder of the joy and power of creativity.
“Muteking the Dancing Hero” is more than just a reboot; it’s a celebration of culture, a commentary on the changing landscape of media, and a testament to the enduring appeal of music and dance. It’s a show that invites viewers to let go of their worries, if only for a moment, and dance along with Muteki as he battles aliens and brings harmony back to Neo San Francisco.
In Conclusion
“Muteking the Dancing Hero” is a rare gem in today’s television lineup. It combines the charm of its 80s predecessor with modern storytelling, animation, and music, creating a show that’s accessible to a wide range of viewers. Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the vibrant visuals, or the catchy tunes, “Muteking” offers something for everyone.
As television continues to evolve, it’s refreshing to see shows like “Muteking the Dancing Hero” that dare to be different, that celebrate the arts, and that remind us of the power of joy and creativity. In a world that often feels overwhelmed by negativity, “Muteking” serves as a colorful, musical escape, proving that sometimes, all you need to save the world is a good dance move.