Lazarus Anime: Rating, Review & What To Expect

Let's dive into the world of Lazarus, the highly anticipated anime from the mind of Shinichirō Watanabe, the creative genius behind Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo. Everyone's been buzzing about this show, especially with its unique blend of action, sci-fi, and Watanabe's signature style. So, what's the scoop on its rating, what can you expect, and is it worth the hype? Let's break it down, guys, and get you prepped for what promises to be an unforgettable ride.

What to Expect from Lazarus

When we talk about Lazarus, we're not just talking about another anime; we're talking about a project helmed by a visionary. Shinichirō Watanabe has a track record of delivering anime that are not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging on a narrative level. Think about the jazzy, space-western vibes of Cowboy Bebop or the hip-hop infused samurai action of Samurai Champloo. Watanabe has a knack for blending genres and creating something entirely new, and Lazarus looks to continue that trend.

Lazarus is set in a near-future world where a Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist has cured all disease. Sounds great, right? But there's a catch – three years later, people start dying from a new disease caused by the very cure that saved them. Talk about a plot twist! To combat this, a special task force called Lazarus is formed, comprised of individuals with exceptional skills. This sets the stage for a high-octane, action-packed story with complex characters and moral dilemmas. Watanabe's anime often delve into deeper themes, and we can expect Lazarus to explore issues of morality, the consequences of scientific advancement, and the value of human life.

The animation quality is also something to look forward to. With action sequences choreographed by Chad Stahelski, the director of the John Wick series, you know you're in for some seriously impressive visuals. The fight scenes are expected to be fluid, dynamic, and impactful, making Lazarus a visual feast for action enthusiasts. Plus, the involvement of talented animators and designers ensures that the characters and world are brought to life in stunning detail. Considering Watanabe's previous works, we can anticipate a unique and evocative soundtrack that complements the visuals and enhances the overall viewing experience. Music is often a crucial element in his anime, setting the tone and adding emotional depth to the scenes. For example, Cowboy Bebop's jazz-infused score and Samurai Champloo's hip-hop beats became iconic in their own right. With Lazarus, we can expect a similarly innovative and genre-blending approach to the music.

Anticipated Rating and Why

Okay, so let's get down to brass tacks: what kind of rating can we expect for Lazarus? Given Watanabe's past works and the themes explored in the synopsis, it's highly likely that Lazarus will receive a Mature (17+) rating, possibly TV-MA or equivalent. Here's why:

1. Violence and Action: Watanabe's anime often feature intense action sequences, and with the involvement of the John Wick director, we can expect Lazarus to be no different. The fight scenes will likely be visceral and may contain graphic violence.
2. Mature Themes: As mentioned earlier, Lazarus is set to explore complex themes such as morality, the ethics of scientific advancements, and the value of life. These are mature topics that require a nuanced approach and are better suited for older audiences.
3. Complex Narrative: Watanabe is known for his intricate storytelling, and Lazarus seems to follow suit. The plot involves a deadly disease, a special task force, and potential conspiracies. This complexity might be challenging for younger viewers to follow and appreciate.
4. Dark Undertones: Given the premise of a cure that turns into a curse, Lazarus is likely to have dark and serious undertones. This can create a more intense and unsettling viewing experience, making it more appropriate for mature audiences.

While the official rating will depend on the specific content of the episodes, these factors suggest that Lazarus is targeting an older demographic. This allows the creators to explore more challenging themes and create a more impactful and thought-provoking anime. Also, considering that Adult Swim is broadcasting the show, this further supports expectations for a mature rating. Adult Swim is known for airing content that caters to an older audience, often featuring shows with mature themes, dark humor, and graphic violence. By choosing Adult Swim as its broadcasting platform, the creators of Lazarus are likely signaling that the anime is intended for a similar audience.

Reviews and Early Reactions

Since Lazarus is still relatively new, comprehensive reviews are still trickling in. However, the initial buzz surrounding the anime is overwhelmingly positive. Fans and critics alike are praising Watanabe's return to the scene and the unique blend of action, sci-fi, and mature themes. The early reactions highlight several key aspects of the show:

• Visuals: Many are impressed with the animation quality, particularly the fluid and dynamic action sequences choreographed by Chad Stahelski. The character designs and world-building are also receiving high praise.
• Story: The complex and intriguing plot has captured the attention of viewers, with many eager to see how the story unfolds and the characters develop.
• Music: As with Watanabe's previous works, the soundtrack is expected to be a standout feature. While the full soundtrack is yet to be released, snippets and teasers have hinted at an innovative and genre-blending musical experience.

Of course, some are also expressing cautious optimism, noting that Watanabe's anime can sometimes be polarizing. However, the overall sentiment is that Lazarus has the potential to be a groundbreaking and unforgettable anime. As more episodes are released and more reviews come in, we'll get a clearer picture of how Lazarus is received. But for now, the signs are promising.

Is Lazarus Worth the Hype?

So, the million-dollar question: Is Lazarus worth all the hype? Based on what we know so far, the answer is a resounding yes. Shinichirō Watanabe has a proven track record of delivering exceptional anime, and Lazarus appears to be another masterpiece in the making. The combination of his unique storytelling style, stunning visuals, and mature themes makes it a must-watch for anime enthusiasts.

Of course, taste is subjective, and not everyone will enjoy the show. But if you're a fan of Watanabe's previous works, or if you're looking for an anime that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions, Lazarus is definitely worth checking out. So, mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the world of Lazarus.

Final Thoughts

Lazarus promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the anime landscape. With its mature themes, stunning visuals, and the creative genius of Shinichirō Watanabe behind it, it's no wonder there's so much buzz surrounding the show. While the official rating is likely to be Mature (17+), the content is sure to captivate and challenge viewers. Keep an eye out for more reviews and reactions as the series progresses, but for now, get ready to dive into the dark, action-packed world of Lazarus. It's going to be one heck of a ride!