Netflix's Epic Anime Adaptation Could Redefine the Franchise - A Must-Watch in 2021

When Netflix announced their new anime series Pluto would premiere in late October, fans of manga and anime worldwide were thrilled. This news had been anticipated for over a decade. Many fans are confident that Pluto has the potential to become the anime of the year.

Ever since rumors started circulating in 2017 about an anime adaptation of Pluto being in the works, there has been an incredible amount of excitement surrounding the series. The reason for this hype is not only because Naoki Urasawa's original Pluto manga is considered a masterpiece by fans and experts alike, but also because the anime is based on Osamu Tezuka's Astro Boy, which is one of the most beloved and significant shows in animation history. With these two elements and the support of Netflix, Pluto has all the necessary ingredients to become an instant classic.

Astro Boy Is An Anime Legend

To truly comprehend the excitement surrounding Netflix's Pluto, one must first grasp Astro Boy as both a narrative and an artistic creation. Osamu's Astro Boy emerged from his manga series of the 1950s, set in a future where robots are an integral part of daily life. Dr. Tenma, undeterred by societal norms, constructs a mechanized replica of his deceased son. The subsequent realization that the robot cannot substitute for his loss prompts Tenma to discard it. However, the robot finds solace under the caring tutelage of Professor Ochanomizu, who dubs him Astro Boy, and together, they embark on a virtuous alliance against malevolence.

While the manga resonated well, Astro Boy solely gained prominence in 1963 with the release of its anime adaptation—a remarkable occurrence unlike those common in present times. Osamu himself undertook the challenge of transforming his creation into an animated spectacle. With its debut, the show rapidly amassed an ardent global fan base, also serving as a catalyst for the burgeoning Japanese anime industry. Its influence can be observed in contemporary anime practices, such as character design and the distinctive exaggerated eyes showcased in numerous series.

Pluto Launches Astro Boy To A Whole Other Level

Considering Astro Boy's esteemed status by 2009, it is not surprising that, despite updates to align with modern sensibilities, the story remained unchanged. However, Urasawa's Pluto offers a fresh perspective, delving into the world beyond Astro Boy's fame. Specifically, it expands on an Astro Boy manga called "The Greatest Robot on Earth," where the world's great robots, including Astro Boy, are hunted and destroyed. In Pluto, the story takes a new turn, featuring an unknown killer targeting these revered robots.

While Astro Boy maintains a positive and uplifting theme, Pluto caters to an adult audience. It delves into the gritty aspects of a criminal investigation, exploring the motivations behind a human or robot's compulsion to kill. Unlike the lighthearted and joyful nature of Astro Boy, Pluto exudes a dark and gloomy ambiance, which resonates with fans. Interestingly, prior to undertaking this project, Urasawa collaborated with Osamu's production company to ensure his manga aligned with Astro Boy canon as accurately as possible.

The hype surrounding Pluto has two main elements. Firstly, there is speculation about whether the adaptation will stay faithful to the original. Secondly, there is the joy that comes from witnessing a beloved story being reimagined in a different format. With its captivating storyline and the demonstrated storytelling skills, Pluto is poised to become a guaranteed success on Netflix. Mark your calendars for October 26, 2023, when Pluto will make its premiere on the streaming platform.