In the vibrant landscape of anime, few names resonate as profoundly as Shinichirō Watanabe, the visionary behind beloved classics like Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo. His latest endeavor, Lazarus, has been one of the most anticipated anime series of 2025, and it certainly lives up to the hype. Set in a dystopian future, the series plunges viewers into a world on the brink of collapse due to a miracle drug that harbors a deadly secret.
Lazarus, which premiered on April 5, 2025, is set in the year 2055, where the titular drug, Hapna, has been marketed as a cure-all for pain. However, the twist is chilling: Dr. Skinner, the drug's creator, reveals that it will kill anyone who takes it within 30 days after three years of use. This shocking announcement sets the stage for a gripping narrative where the government must assemble a secret task force, known as Lazarus, to track down Dr. Skinner and secure a cure before humanity faces annihilation.
The series follows Axel, a master escape artist serving an 888-year sentence in a high-tech prison. He is approached by Hersch, a mysterious government agent, who offers him a chance at freedom in exchange for his help in capturing Skinner. Axel’s daring prison break showcases his exceptional skills, setting the tone for the action-packed sequences that define the series.
Watanabe’s direction shines through in the series' unique aesthetic, which diverges from the typical neon-lit landscapes of cyberpunk. Instead, Lazarus opts for a dusty, muted visual style that enhances its narrative. The animation, produced by MAPPA, is complemented by the action choreography overseen by Chad Stahelski, known for his work on the John Wick films. The fluidity and detail in the animation are captivating, making every chase and fight sequence a visual treat.
As the story unfolds, viewers are introduced to an eclectic cast of characters, including Doug, Christine, Leland, and Eleina, who form the Lazarus team. While Axel takes center stage in the premiere, the supporting characters are intriguing, hinting at deeper stories to be explored as the series progresses.
The music, a hallmark of Watanabe's projects, is as exceptional as expected. The jazz-inspired soundtrack, featuring contributions from Kamasi Washington, Bonobo, and Floating Points, enhances the emotional depth of the series. The opening and ending themes resonate with the show's themes, blending seamlessly into the narrative and elevating the viewing experience.
Despite its many strengths, Lazarus is not without flaws. Some dialogue comes across as clunky, with lines that feel overly poetic or unnatural. For instance, Hersch’s reflection on Axel’s escape, “he just flew away, like a bird that was let out of its cage,” feels forced and detracts from the otherwise engaging narrative. However, these moments are overshadowed by the series' overall aesthetic and thematic depth.
In addition to its visual and auditory appeal, Lazarus is rich with thematic content. The narrative explores the consequences of humanity's quest for instant gratification, as represented by the deadly drug. The name of the city, Babylonia, and the biblical references throughout the series underscore the moral implications of seeking quick fixes at the expense of long-term well-being.
As Axel navigates his new reality, the stakes are high, with only 29 days left before the first wave of deaths begins. The tension builds as the characters grapple with their motivations and the impending doom. The series cleverly juxtaposes the carefree, living-on-the-edge mentality of its characters with the serious consequences of their actions, creating a compelling narrative that invites viewers to reflect on their own lives.
With its premiere episode leaving viewers on a cliffhanger, the anticipation for the next installment is palpable. Episode 2, titled “Life in the Fast Lane,” is set to air on April 12, 2025, at 9:00 PM Pacific Standard Time (PST), with streaming available on Max the following day. The first season of Lazarus is expected to consist of 13 episodes, each promising to delve deeper into the characters' journeys and the overarching plot.
In a landscape crowded with adaptations and sequels, Lazarus stands out as a fresh, original work that showcases Watanabe's mastery of storytelling and animation. While some may draw comparisons to Cowboy Bebop, Lazarus carves its own identity, offering a thrilling blend of action, moral complexity, and artistic excellence.
As viewers eagerly await the next episode, one thing is clear: Lazarus is poised to be a defining series of the spring 2025 anime season, captivating audiences with its unique vision and compelling narrative.
