Exploring Jazz in Shinichirō Watanabe’s ‘Lazarus’: Initial Thoughts and Impressions

Overview

• Lazarus is a thrilling action anime set against a cyberpunk backdrop, centered on a race to halt a deadly drug.
• This series showcases a distinctive visual style, characterized by a dusty, muted cyberpunk aesthetic complemented by exhilarating action scenes.
• Featuring an incredible soundtrack with jazz influences from Shinichiro Watanabe and dynamically choreographed action sequences helmed by Chad Stahelski.

Lazarus stands as the most eagerly awaited anime of the Spring 2025 lineup, marking a notable reunion with a renowned creator and a pivotal anime block. Under the helm of director Shinichiro Watanabe, celebrated for iconic series like Samurai Champloo, Space Dandy, and the legendary Cowboy Bebop, Lazarus emerges as a highly anticipated work from one of the industry’s most influential figures.

The original Cowboy Bebop launched nearly 25 years ago on [adult swim]’s Toonami, setting a precedent with its polished aesthetic and iconic soundtrack that became a cornerstone of Toonami’s identity. This show not only shaped the narrative of [adult swim] but also left an indelible mark on American pop culture. As fans draw parallels between Lazarus and Bebop, there is a palpable excitement surrounding this new offering. Despite its contemporary undertones, the visual and thematic elements that characterize Watanabe’s work remain striking and impactful.

Action at the End of the World

Lazarus blurs the lines between classic Toonami action and a sophisticated seinen appeal, unfolding in a dystopian 2050s setting. The narrative is driven by a frantic quest to halt a miracle drug, Hapna, which initially presents as a safe medicinal substance but is soon discovered to be fatally lethal. After years of its recreational use, the world faces a looming health crisis.

The mysterious doctor behind Hapna’s creation has vanished, leaving behind only a cryptic message hinting that those who find him will also find the antidote. As civilization teeters on the brink, Axel, a master escape artist and criminal, is recruited by the elite secret organization, Lazarus. He may possess the skills necessary to uncover the truth behind this catastrophic drug.

Dust, Cyberpunk, Pills

Watanabe stands out as a master creator who artfully crafts and presents the atmospheric elements of his series. Lazarus is an original venture that reflects the current zeitgeist while exploring the vast possibilities of its speculative universe. While cyberpunk anime is prevalent, Lazarus opts for a more subdued and realistic aesthetic, favoring dusty environments over the typical urban neon lit dystopias.

This series trades the common themes of rain-soaked, neon landscapes for a grittier approach, emphasizing blue-light techno vibes restricted to the hacking scenes rather than enveloping the entire environment. Most scenes occur during the day, presenting a fresh take on futuristic settings. The visual style may remind some viewers of the thematically similar Common Side Effects found in American media.

Animation and Style

With a narrative deeply embedded in themes of capitalism and morality, Lazarus engages its audience in a high-stakes race against time. The stunning animation by MAPPA, combined with action sequences choreographed by John Wick director Chad Stahelski, grants the show a visually dynamic quality. The series maintains a high level of detail across episodes, alleviating concerns about previous questionable productions like Uzumaki.

However, the series does incorporate some CGI elements, particularly in its vehicle and locale designs, showcasing its contemporary roots amid classic anime traditions. The CGI isn’t egregious, yet it stands out. Additionally, the dubbing often reflects post-production quirks, leaving a noticeable gap between the intended emotional delivery in the original Japanese and the English version.

As is characteristic of Watanabe’s projects, the music in Lazarus is remarkable, with jazz influences that evoke memories of Cowboy Bebop, especially during action-packed moments. Contemporary sounds add depth to other tracks, blending with the anime’s essence. The introduction of jazz notes heralds a thrilling scene, embodying Watanabe’s signature style.

Drawing an analogy to a musician debuting at a new venue, while Lazarus seeks its rhythm within the context of [adult swim], it echoes the artistry that has defined Watanabe’s career. Unlike Cowboy Bebop, which originated under different production circumstances, Lazarus represents a new chapter in co-production with today’s industry giants. Even with its adjustments to the modern landscape, Lazarus consistently distinguishes itself from the typical seasonal fare, affirming Watanabe’s enduring artistry.

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