A beloved Sherlock Holmes-inspired anime, Sherlock Hound, will make its way to Hulu on December 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone for the 40-year-old series. Originally released in 1984, this Italian-Japanese co-production reimagines the iconic characters from Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective stories as anthropomorphic dogs in a steampunk Victorian London.
Produced by Tokyo Movie Shinsha in collaboration with Radiotelevisione Italiana (RAI), Sherlock Hound offers a unique twist on the classic detective narrative. The series features Sherlock Holmes, his companion Dr. Watson, the notorious Professor Moriarty, and other familiar figures from the Sherlock Holmes canon, all depicted as anthropomorphized animals, primarily dogs. These characters embark on various mystery-solving adventures set in a Victorian-era backdrop.
A Pioneering Work for Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli
The anime holds special significance in the history of animation, particularly for Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki. Before founding the now-legendary studio, Miyazaki worked as the director for the early stages of Sherlock Hound, overseeing its development in 1982. However, due to licensing issues with the estate of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, production was delayed, and Miyazaki eventually left the project to focus on other endeavors, including his groundbreaking work on Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.
While Miyazaki directed the first six episodes of Sherlock Hound and an anime film spinoff, the bulk of the series—spanning 26 episodes in total—was directed by Kyosuke Mikuriya, renowned for his work on Lupin III. Despite the transition in leadership, the series retains much of Miyazaki’s signature style, particularly its whimsical tone and detailed animation. Written by Sunao Katabuchi, who would later gain recognition for his work on In This Corner of the World and Black Lagoon, Sherlock Hound stands as a charming and often overlooked piece of anime history.
Streaming Availability
All 26 episodes of Sherlock Hound will be available for streaming on Hulu starting December 1. The series, while a lesser-known work in the context of Miyazaki’s illustrious career, remains a notable part of the evolution of Japanese animation and a must-watch for fans of both Sherlock Holmes and classic anime.
Related Topics
The Sasuke Retrieval Arc: A Defining Moment in Naruto’s Storyline
TV Anime Adaptation of “The Invisible Man and His Soon-to-Be Wife” Announced for 2025