Netflix Unveils Epic Anime Series based on Adored Fantasy Novels - A Must-Watch!

Netflix has released a trailer for its upcoming project called Onymoji, marking its first foray into adapting the beloved Japanese historical fantasy book series into an anime. This also serves as the debut independent production for studio Marvy Jack. Expect the premiere of this highly-anticipated show on November 28, 2023. Nevertheless, the anime may face challenges in gaining international recognition due to its similarities with an unrelated video game sharing the same name. Critics will also closely monitor Marvy Jack's performance, hoping they meet the expectations of fans.

Nonetheless, the Heian era of Japan is an uncommon setting for anime, which ought to make it stand out enough among a sea of other fantasy tales.

Onmyoji Brings Heian-era Japan Back To TV

In ancient Kyoto, the prosperous city is plagued by mysterious demons. Minamoto Hiromasa, a court musician and grandson of Emperor Daigo, seeks the assistance of the renowned onmyoji, Abe Seimei, in order to unravel these enigmas. However, Hiromasa is taken aback by Seimei's disinterest in the ordinary world and his reluctance to help. Despite their differences, the pair sets out to confront the demons and ultimately discover the presence of the onmyoji Ashiya Doman. Along their journey, they are joined by Imperial Prince Atsumi, Hiromasa's flute teacher, Kamo Yasunori, the emperor's onmyoji, and Lady Tsuyuko, who becomes involved due to a unique case. As their emotions become intertwined, will Seimei and Hiromasa be able to restore peace to the capital?

Abe Seimei, a popular character in Japanese fiction, is widely regarded as a pseudo-historical sorcerer similar to the way Aleister Crowley is portrayed as a "real life" wizard in Western media. Seimei has been featured in various historical fantasies, including Baku Yumemakura's short stories which are being adapted into a new anime. Onmyoji has been around since 1986, with Yumemakura writing three full-length novels between 2000 and 2008. Despite its popularity, the franchise has never been made into an anime until now, making it a notable event. While Onmyoji is well-known in Japan, Netflix is hoping to attract international attention to it.

The interesting thing is that Onmyoji shares its name with a mobile phone game released in 2016, which also centers around Abe Seimei and has become its own franchise. This might cause confusion for viewers who are expecting a different show. Marvy Jack, the studio behind the anime, is also taking a big gamble on this series. Although the studio has been operating since 2003, they have primarily provided background art and key animation support. However, based on the trailer, it is evident that the animation and artwork are of high quality, and the show seems to have all the elements that appeal to anime fans, including impressive action sequences and a cast of unique and memorable characters.

The Onmyoji faces uncertainties, both in terms of an uncertain audience and an untested studio. However, the trailer shows promising elements, with its captivating supernatural battles and exorcisms. If Marvy Jack succeeds, it will gain recognition as the first anime adaptation of the popular novel series. Unlike most anime that concentrate on modern-day Japan, Onmyoji ventures into the Heian era, offering a return to classic fantasy which is rare in contemporary times. Onmyoji will be available on Netflix starting from November 28, and viewers should be on the lookout for this truly one-of-a-kind anime.