No reviews
Genre: Talk-Show
Main Cast: Joey Bizinger, Connor Colquhoun, Garnt Maneetapho, Akidearest
Creators: Rob Pereyda
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 6 episodes
Shows Most Like Netflix x Anime Trending (2020)
Blood of Zeus (2020)
7.5 / 10 (based on 19250 reviews)
A commoner living in ancient Greece, Heron discovers his true heritage as a son of Zeus, and his purpose: to save the world from a demonic army.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Main Cast: Derek Phillips, Jason O’Mara, Jessica Henwick, Claudia Christian
Creators: Charley Parlapanides, Vlas Parlapanides
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre (2021)
6.7 / 10 (based on 2228 reviews)
To gain the skills he needs to surpass his powerful father, Baki enters Arizona State Prison to take on the notorious inmate known as Mr. Unchained.
Genre: Animation, Action, Drama, Sport, Thriller
Main Cast: Nobunaga Shimazaki, Troy Baker, Todd Haberkorn, Ray Chase
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
Castlevania (2017)
8.3 / 10 (based on 69234 reviews)
A vampire hunter fights to save a besieged city from an army of otherworldly creatures controlled by Dracula.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Main Cast: Richard Armitage, James Callis, Alejandra Reynoso, Theo James
Creators: Warren Ellis
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 32 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Arcane (2021)
9 / 10 (based on 221025 reviews)
Set in utopian Piltover and the oppressed underground of Zaun, the story follows the origins of two iconic League champions-and the power that will tear them apart.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Hailee Steinfeld, Kevin Alejandro, Jason Spisak, Harry Lloyd
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 10 episodes, 41.0-minute runtime
Netflix has been a game-changer in many ways, reshaping not just how we watch TV but what we watch. Over the past few years, one trend has particularly stood out: the rise of anime on Netflix. This isn’t just about adding classic series to their catalog; Netflix has been actively investing in original anime content, collaborating with Japanese studios, and securing exclusive international distribution rights. This move has not only expanded Netflix’s diverse content library but has also significantly contributed to the global popularity of anime.
The Rise of Anime on Netflix
Anime’s journey on Netflix started modestly, with the platform initially offering a limited selection of titles. However, recognizing the growing global interest in anime, Netflix began to aggressively expand its anime library around 2020. This expansion wasn’t just about quantity. Netflix aimed to diversify its offerings, including everything from action-packed adventures and fantasy epics to heartwarming slice-of-life stories and thought-provoking sci-fi.
Strategic Partnerships and Original Productions
One of the keys to Netflix’s anime strategy has been its partnerships with established Japanese anime studios like Production I.G, Bones, and Studio Ghibli. These collaborations have led to the creation of original anime series and movies that premiere exclusively on Netflix. Shows like “Castlevania,” “Devilman Crybaby,” and “The Great Pretender” are prime examples of how Netflix has not only contributed to the production of new anime content but has also helped in pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Moreover, securing the global streaming rights for Studio Ghibli’s beloved films was a significant coup for Netflix. For the first time, fans around the world could easily access classics like “Spirited Away,” “My Neighbor Totoro,” and “Princess Mononoke” on a single platform, introducing these masterpieces to a whole new generation of viewers.
Diverse Content for a Global Audience
Netflix’s anime catalog is notable not just for its size but for its diversity. Whether you’re a fan of intense action, intricate mysteries, or touching dramas, there’s something for everyone. This variety has played a crucial role in anime’s growing popularity, attracting viewers who might not have considered themselves anime fans before.
For instance, “Aggretsuko,” with its relatable portrayal of office life and adulting, has found a fanbase even among those who don’t typically watch anime. Similarly, “Beastars” offers a complex narrative that explores societal issues, making it appealing to viewers interested in more than just entertainment.
Impact on Global Anime Fandom
Netflix’s investment in anime has had a profound impact on the genre’s global fanbase. By making anime more accessible worldwide, Netflix has helped introduce these Japanese animated series and films to a broader audience. The platform’s recommendation algorithms have also played a part, suggesting anime titles to viewers based on their watching habits, thus encouraging them to explore new genres and series.
Fostering a Community
Beyond just expanding the audience, Netflix has contributed to fostering a global community of anime fans. Social media platforms are awash with discussions, fan theories, and artwork related to Netflix’s anime offerings. This sense of community has been crucial in maintaining the momentum of anime’s popularity, with fans eagerly anticipating new releases and sharing their experiences with others.
Challenges and Criticisms
However, Netflix’s approach to anime has not been without its challenges and criticisms. One significant point of contention has been the platform’s “Netflix Jail” phenomenon, where international releases of anime are delayed until the entire season has aired in Japan. This strategy, aimed at binge-watching, has been frustrating for international fans who wish to follow along with the Japanese broadcast.
Moreover, while Netflix has been praised for its original content, some purists argue that the platform’s focus on appealing to a global audience might dilute the unique aspects of Japanese culture that make anime special. Despite these criticisms, Netflix’s impact on the anime industry and its global popularity is undeniable.
Looking Forward
As we look to the future, it’s clear that anime will continue to be a significant part of Netflix’s content strategy. With the platform’s ongoing investments in original productions and partnerships with Japanese studios, viewers can expect a steady stream of diverse and high-quality anime content.
The success of Netflix’s anime strategy also signals a broader trend: the globalization of entertainment. As platforms like Netflix make content from different cultures more accessible worldwide, we’re likely to see an even greater blending and appreciation of global storytelling traditions.
In conclusion, Netflix’s embrace of anime has been a win-win situation. For Netflix, it has enriched their content library and attracted a wider audience. For viewers, it has made a vast array of anime easily accessible, introducing many to the genre for the first time. And for the anime industry, it has opened up new opportunities for creators and helped spread Japanese culture globally. As we move forward, the Netflix x Anime trend is set to continue, bringing more exciting content to screens around the world and cementing anime’s place in global pop culture.