The trend of remaking older anime is on the rise, driven by nostalgia and the potential for studios to capitalize on established properties. Recent revivals, such as Sailor Moon Crystal, Urusei Yatsura, and Ranma ½, showcase modern animation styles that breathe new life into beloved classics. With successful updates like Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin and Fist of the North Star being reanimated, fans are eager to see which classic series will receive a contemporary facelift next. Here are seven iconic shonen anime that are ripe for a remake, whether due to their popularity or the shortcomings of their original adaptations.
7. Zatch Bell!
Originally airing on April 6, 2003, Zatch Bell! follows the adventures of Zatch and his human partner Kiyo as they navigate the magical world of Mamodo. Despite the original series’ charm, it suffered from pacing issues, as it was produced while the manga was still ongoing. With over two years of new chapters in the sequel, Konjiki no Gash 2, a remake could refresh audiences on the intricacies of Zatch’s magic and provide a more cohesive storytelling experience without the original’s constraints.
6. Samurai Deeper Kyo
Samurai Deeper Kyo, produced by Studio Deen, is an adaptation of the manga that follows the story of Kyoshiro, a medicine man with the soul of the notorious Demon Eyes Kyo. While the premise is engaging, the original anime’s choppy animation, slow pacing, and convoluted plot detracted from its potential. A modern remake could provide a more structured adaptation, appealing to fans of similar series like Jujutsu Kaisen and reigniting interest in its feudal Japanese setting and thrilling swordplay.
5. Great Teacher Onizuka
The classic Great Teacher Onizuka aired on June 30, 1999, featuring the journey of an ex-biker gang member turned unconventional teacher. Although it has received adaptations in live-action formats, including a follow-up series, the anime only aired once for 43 episodes. With numerous manga spin-offs and sequels exploring Onizuka’s backstory and adventures, a new anime could delve deeper into his character and experiences, updating the humor and themes for a modern audience.
4. Appleseed
Shirow Masamune’s Appleseed tells the story of ESWAT cops Deunan and Briareos in a utopian city plagued by conflict. Despite its iconic status, the original 1988 OVA and subsequent adaptations failed to capture the manga’s essence. A faithful remake could resonate well with both fans of the original work and newcomers, offering a fresh perspective on its complex narrative and rich cyberpunk world.
3. Sakigake!! Otokojuku
Sakigake!! Otokojuku revolves around students at an all-boys school enduring the strict regime of their principal, Heihachi Edajima. The series began as a comedic take on martial arts but evolved into a more serious portrayal. While it garnered popularity in Japan, international audiences are less familiar with its legacy. A remake could introduce its unique blend of humor and action to a wider audience, shedding light on its influence within the genre.
2. Bio Booster Armor Guyver
Bio Booster Armor Guyver follows a high school student who becomes a biomechanical superhero. The series has a notable history, with adaptations ranging from OVAs to live-action films. However, the original anime’s dated storytelling and thin character development call for a reboot that could reinvigorate its core themes while appealing to modern audiences. A fresh approach could showcase its lasting influence on the superhero genre.
1. Ashita no Joe
Ashita no Joe, which debuted on April 1, 1970, remains a cornerstone of sports anime. The series chronicles Joe’s transformation from a drifter to a professional boxer, offering a compelling narrative that predates many contemporary sports stories. Despite its historical significance, the original series is difficult to find on streaming platforms. A remake or remaster could rekindle interest in this classic, perhaps even drawing parallels to modern titles like Megalo Box, which pays homage to its legacy.
As the anime landscape continues to evolve, these classic shonen series present opportunities for studios to revisit beloved stories, enhancing their appeal for both nostalgic fans and new viewers alike.
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