Studio MAPPA’s upcoming adaptation of the beloved manga Ranma 1/2 by Rumiko Takahashi has sparked widespread excitement among anime fans. Many have fond memories of the series, whether through the 1987 manga or the 1989 anime, and naturally, expectations are high for this modern retelling.
Ranma 1/2 follows the adventures of Ranma Saotome, a young martial artist cursed to transform into a girl whenever he’s doused with cold water. The series is known for its unique blend of martial arts and romantic comedy, offering a rich tapestry for adaptation. As anticipation builds, here are ten things fans are eager to see in the new Netflix series.
1. Tighter Episode-to-Episode Pacing
One major hope among fans is that Studio MAPPA will streamline the pacing of the episodes. The original anime spanned seven seasons, but much of that content was considered filler by many. Fans are keen to see the new adaptation focus on the core narrative, minimizing unnecessary detours and keeping the story engaging.
However, opinions vary on what constitutes “filler.” While some fans enjoy the slower, character-driven moments, others believe the anime-only material should be trimmed to maintain a tighter, more compelling plot.
2. More of Akane and Ranma’s Dynamic
The combative yet endearing relationship between Ranma and Akane Tendo is a cornerstone of the original series. Fans are hoping for more of their spirited exchanges, as well as those tender moments that reveal their deeper feelings for each other. The new adaptation has the opportunity to further develop this relationship, balancing the humor with heartfelt interactions.
3. Saying Goodbye to Happosai
Not everything from the original series is worth revisiting. Fans are largely in agreement that Happosai, the perverted old master, should be sidelined in the new adaptation. While he played a role in shaping the backstory, his antics often bordered on the offensive, and many believe the series would be better off without him.
4. New Performances from the Original Japanese Cast
One of the most thrilling announcements was that much of the original Japanese voice cast would be returning for the remake. The familiar voices are sure to evoke nostalgia, even as the series undergoes a visual and thematic update. However, a few changes have been made—Kenichi Ogata, who originally voiced Genma Saotome, will now serve as the narrator, while Akio Otsuka, the voice of Soun Tendo, will not be involved.
5. Handling of Censorship
A topic of much debate is how the new series will handle the nudity that was present in the original. The 1989 anime frequently included scenes that might not align with today’s standards. Early trailers suggest that some of these moments may be toned down, but whether this reflects broader censorship remains to be seen.
6. A Modern Take on Gender Issues
Given that Ranma 1/2 was created in the late 1980s, its handling of gender issues reflects the norms of that time. Fans are divided on whether the remake should update Ranma’s story with more contemporary commentary on gender identity. While some argue that the series could benefit from modern insights, others fear this would stray too far from the original character’s identity as a boy who occasionally transforms into a girl.
7. Unadapted Manga Material
There’s a wealth of manga content that never made it into the original anime, and fans are eager to see these stories brought to life. The Musk Dynasty arc, the Koi Rod storyline, and the character Ryu Kumon are just a few examples of material that could be adapted for the first time. While the initial trailers focus on early episodes, there is hope that these later arcs will eventually be included.
8. New Merchandise
The prospect of new merchandise is also exciting for fans, particularly those outside Japan, where Ranma 1/2 collectibles are hard to come by. Whether it’s T-shirts, phone charms, or even full-scale statues, the demand for Ranma merchandise is strong, and fans are hopeful the new series will inspire a fresh wave of products.
9. More of That Iconic Eighties Sound
The original Ranma 1/2 soundtrack is as memorable as the series itself, and fans are hoping the remake will pay homage to its iconic tunes. Composed by Hideharu Mori and Kenji Kawai, the music captures the show’s unique blend of Japanese and Chinese cultural influences. The new series has the potential to update this classic sound while retaining the energetic spirit that made it so beloved.
10. An Actual Conclusion
One of the most significant wishes from fans is for the new series to provide a definitive conclusion to the Ranma 1/2 saga. The original series famously ended without resolving the will-they-won’t-they dynamic between Ranma and Akane. After three decades, fans are eager for closure—whether it’s a final wedding or some other resolution that honors the characters’ growth.
As Studio MAPPA prepares to bring Ranma 1/2 to a new generation of viewers, the challenge lies in balancing nostalgia with modern sensibilities. Whether or not the remake lives up to the high expectations, it’s clear that this beloved series still holds a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide.