Unexpected Anime and Manga Sequels or Remakes: Beyond Expected
From surprising anime sequels and manga remakes to unexpected plot twists, the world of anime and manga is filled with surprises that continue to captivate fans around the globe. These unexpected projects often catch audiences off guard, but in doing so, they generate immense excitement and discussion within the community. Below, we explore some of the most unexpected anime and manga sequels or remakes that continue to thrill and intrigue fans.
The Most Unexpected Anime and Manga Sequels
20 HORUS PRINCE OF THE SUN
Background: While 1967's Horus Prince of the Sun was the first Japanese animated feature film not primarily targeted at kids, it tackled heavy subject matter, thus setting a playful yet sophisticated tone.
Why It's Unexpected: In a time when animated features were mainly for children, Horus Prince of the Sun did not only establish the careers of legends like Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki but also revolutionized storytelling in anime.
THE ROSE OF VERSAILLES
Background: In the 1970s, shojo manga authors started to deal with queer romance, laying the groundwork for yaoi and yuri genres. The Rose of Versailles was highly successful in this realm, addressing bisexuality in its complex narrative.
Why It's Unexpected: This historical drama, when first released, was groundbreaking in its inclusion of themes that were not typically discussed in media targeted at younger audiences.
DEATH NOTE
Background: Known as a show centered around the complex game of cat and mouse between Light Yagami and Detective L, the plot twists of Death Note are legendary.
Why It's Unexpected: The shocking twist near the middle of the manga, where Light defeats L with his notebook, is unforgettable. From that point, the story and its tone completely change, leaving many fans questioning its impact.
YOUR NAME
Background: Starting out as a light-hearted body-swapping comedy, Your Name delves into profound emotional manipulation, ultimately becoming the highest-grossing anime film of all time worldwide.
Why It's Unexpected: The simple premise of body swapping evolves dramatically in the second half, leading to a deeply emotional and engaging storyline that resonated with global audiences.
PERFECT BLUE
Background: Satoshi Kon's debut film, Perfect Blue, is a flat-out scary animated movie that deals with an idol singer aspiring to be a serious actress, dealing with producers and fans while grappling with mental instability.
Why It's Unexpected: With its unique and unorthodox storytelling, Perfect Blue raised countless questions and still leaves many unanswered, even years after its release. It has influenced many filmmakers and artists due to its complex narrative and psychological depth.
Conclusion
The unexpected anime and manga sequels and remakes listed here represent some of the most revolutionary and engaging works in the history of Japanese animation and manga. They showcase the genre's ability to captivate, surprise, and innovate, even after decades of existence. Whether it's a profound deconstruction of genre conventions, a bold leap into darker storytelling, or an innovative twist on an established trope, these projects continue to fuel the imagination and passion of anime and manga fans alike.