The allure of ’90s anime remains strong, captivating audiences for various reasons, including nostalgia, compelling narratives, and distinctive aesthetics. Iconic titles like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Trigun, and Serial Experiments Lain continue to maintain their revered status, growing in appreciation as the years pass. Among these gems is Cowboy Bebop, and enthusiasts will be excited to learn that its visionary creator has returned with a brand-new series titled Lazarus.
Shinichiro Watanabe, a titan in the animation industry, is celebrated for his creations such as Cowboy Bebop and the often-overlooked Samurai Champloo. As the spring 2025 anime season takes off, fans eagerly anticipate his latest offering. Produced by the renowned Studio MAPPA and scheduled to premiere on Adult Swim in the United States, Lazarus is poised to become the season’s must-watch hit. Early reactions to the first episode indicate that Watanabe is set to deliver the signature style and thrilling action his projects are famous for.
Lazarus Captures the Classic ’90s Style
Watanabe’s Latest Anime Overflows with Style
The inaugural episode of Lazarus, titled “Goodbye Cruel World,”premiered on April 6, 2025, and quickly earned acclaim from the anime community. Viewers praised its stunning visuals, rapid-fire action, and engaging narrative. Notably, the series’ action sequences are crafted by Chad Stahelski, renowned for his direction of the John Wick series. With Watanabe’s distinctive animation style and a soundtrack that echoes the memorable tunes of Cowboy Bebop, the debut episode caters perfectly to fans of ’90s anime.
Following the journey of escaped convict Axel Gilberto, the story introduces a protagonist who exhibits a nonchalant demeanor when confronted with a conspiracy threatening thousands of lives. This leads to his escape during a fortuitous meeting in prison, culminating in a disorienting awakening filled with the ominous phrase, “Welcome to Lazarus.”
The excitement around Lazarus extends beyond the usual anime fanbase. Notably, Hideo Kojima shared his thoughts on X, expressing that the series rekindled memories of staying up late to watch anime and inspired him to shift back to traditional TV viewing instead of streaming. For those seeking an engaging mixture of nostalgic and fresh experiences, Lazarus appears to hit the mark.
Lazarus: A Contender for Anime of the Season
The Spring 2025 Anime Season is Brimming with Options
As the spring anime season has just commenced, Lazarus has made a resounding first impression. If it can sustain its momentum in the coming weeks, Shinichiro Watanabe’s new title stands a strong chance of dominating the seasonal highlights. However, it faces stiff competition from the returns of popular series like One Piece and Fire Force, as well as the ongoing success of The Apothecary Diaries, which will inevitably divide viewer attention.
Nonetheless, Lazarus has positioned itself well to capture the audience’s interest. Backed by an esteemed creative team and airing weekly on TV in the U.S., the series is likely to stir significant buzz. Countless anime enthusiasts long for the unique aesthetic and ambiance of beloved ’90s series, and Lazarus might just be the nostalgic experience they’ve been searching for.