Exciting Continuation: Urusei Yatsura’s Anime Adaptation Announces Second Half
Fans of Rumiko Takahashi’s beloved manga, Urusei Yatsura, are in for a treat as the official website for its latest anime adaptation released a dazzling new promotional video. This enticing glimpse into the show’s upcoming chapters spotlights the energetic opening theme, “Lock On feat. HashiMelo, Megurimeguru,” and the romantic ending theme, “Raizakura feat. 9Lana, SAKURAmoti,” both performed by the dynamic MAISONdes.
The next installment of the anime is set to captivate audiences with a back-to-back cour broadcast beginning on January 11, ensuring a continuous dose of intergalactic romantic comedy.
The anime reboot, which took off in October 2022 within Fuji TV’s prestigious Noitamina programming block, has been met with global enthusiasm. The streaming service HIDIVE has brought the show to an international stage, recently complementing their original Japanese audio releases with an English dubbed version launched on March 1.
Revisiting selective highlights from the manga, the anime adaptation plans to unfold over a full year, split into four cours, although not aired in consecutive order. This structure allows for a faithful rendition of the cherished stories while keeping viewers eagerly awaiting each new release.
Behind the Scenes Talent
The team helming the series boasts industry virtuosos. Among them is Takahiro Kamei, known for his directorial work on Strike Witches: Road to Berlin and JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind, leading as the series director. The melodious undertones of the anime are crafted by none other than Masaru Yokoyama, whose previous compositions for Horimiya, Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans, and the 2019 remake of Fruits Basket have resonated with fans worldwide.
From Manga to Modern Anime
For aficionados of print, Viz Media continues to honor the original manga with newly translated 2-in-1 omnibus editions that commenced release in the spring of 2019. These editions present the adventures of Ataru Moroboshi and the vivacious alien princess Lum in a modern light, with fresh translations and sleek new cover designs. The comedic and romantic misfortunes of Ataru begin with an alien tag game but quickly evolve into a series of fantastical escapades involving spirited entities from across the cosmos.
Spanning nearly a decade, Urusei Yatsura‘s manga serialized in Shogakukan’s Weekly Shonen Sunday from 1978 to 1987 and has since inspired a host of anime adaptations. Among these were a television series from 1981 to 1986, several movies, and an original video anime (OVA) series, all contributing to the franchise’s storied history.
The anime’s influence stretches across decades; previous editions by AnimEigo and Central Park Media have been succeeded by Discotek Media, which has stepped in to reissue the movies after previous licenses expired, ensuring that the magic of Urusei Yatsura continues to reach new generations.
Sources: Urusei Yatsura anime’s website, Comic Natalie
Final Thoughts
As the endearing and tumultuous tale of Ataru and Lum continues on the small screen, both new and returning viewers are set to be charmed by the innovative spirit of this fresh adaptation. With the second half around the corner, the anticipation buzzes in the air, promising laughter, romance, and a trip down memory lane – with a modern twist. Keep your eyes peeled and your calendars marked; the legacy of Urusei Yatsura is set to dance through the cosmos once more, beginning this January 11.
