# Lazarus: An Initial Look at the Cutting-Edge Anime from Cowboy Bebop’s Director
Anime enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating the next major undertaking from Shinichirō Watanabe, the acclaimed director of the legendary series *Cowboy Bebop*. Last year, Adult Swim revealed that Watanabe was developing a new anime titled *Lazarus*, and at last, we have our first look at this futuristic series in motion. At New York Comic Con 2024, Adult Swim astonished attendees by presenting the debut episode of *Lazarus*, giving fans a preview of what lies ahead. For those unable to attend, Adult Swim has also made a short clip available online, providing a sneak preview of this much-anticipated anime.
## The Concept of *Lazarus*
Taking place in 2052, *Lazarus* depicts a universe where an innovative drug named Hapna has apparently eradicated all illnesses, heralding a period of tranquility and affluence. The drug was created by neuroscientist Dr. Skinner, who inexplicably vanished shortly after its launch. However, three years later, Skinner resurfaces with a grim proclamation: anyone who ingested Hapna will perish exactly three years after their initial dose. With merely 30 days remaining before humanity faces widespread extinction, a specialized task force known as “Lazarus” is formed to track down Dr. Skinner and discover the antidote.
The series centers on five elite operatives assigned the mission of rescuing mankind. In the clip released by Adult Swim, we meet Axel Gilberto, a wanted criminal, and the squad that is pursuing him. The atmosphere is charged, and the animation is polished, highlighting Watanabe’s unique approach of merging action with profound, philosophical themes.
## A Talented Creative Team
While Watanabe is already a superstar in the anime realm, *Lazarus* assembles an outstanding team of talent from diverse creative backgrounds:
– **Chad Stahelski**, the director known for the *John Wick* series, provided guidance on fight choreography, ensuring that the action scenes are both thrilling and seamless.
– The soundtrack boasts contributions from famous musicians such as **Kamasi Washington**, **Floating Points**, and **Bonobo**, offering a rich audio landscape that enhances the anime’s futuristic vibe.
– **Formosa Group**, the sound design company recognized for their work on films like *Dune* and *Blade Runner: 2049*, delivered Hollywood-quality sound to the series.
## Voice Cast and Characters
The Japanese voice-over cast of *Lazarus* features some of the most recognizable names in the anime sphere:
– **Mamoru Miyano** as Axel Gilberto
– **Koichi Yamadera** as Dr. Skinner
– **Megumi Hayashibara** as Hersch
– **Maaya Uchida** as Chris
– **Yuma Uchida** as Leland
– **Makoto Furukawa** as Doug
– **Manaka Iwami** as Eleina
– **Akio Otsuka** as Abel
Importantly, both Koichi Yamadera and Megumi Hayashibara have previously voiced characters in *Cowboy Bebop*, creating a nostalgic tie for fans of Watanabe’s earlier projects.
## What’s in Store
With its high-stakes plot, breathtaking visuals, and an exceptional creative squad, *Lazarus* is on track to become one of the most thrilling anime releases in recent times. The series’ fusion of sci-fi, action, and deep themes echoes Watanabe’s earlier works while presenting a novel, futuristic angle. Followers of *Cowboy Bebop* and *Samurai Champloo* are sure to revel in *Lazarus*, while those new to Watanabe’s artistry will be captivated by the engaging narrative and vibrant action scenes.
### When Will It Premiere?
Regrettably, the rest of us will need to wait until 2025 to fully experience *Lazarus*, as all 13 episodes are scheduled to air on Adult Swim next year. Until that time, fans can enjoy the teaser clip and speculate on what awaits in this exhilarating new series.
In the interim, keep an eye out for additional updates on *Lazarus* as we near its release. With Watanabe leading the project alongside an outstanding group of collaborators, this anime is set to make a significant mark on the genre and resonate profoundly with audiences globally.
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