Great news for anime fans! The upcoming anime adaptation of Scott Westerfeld’s popular novel series, Leviathan, has officially announced its release date. Mark your calendars for July 10, when the series will begin streaming exclusively on Netflix. Along with the release date, a brand-new visual has also been revealed, giving fans a sneak peek at the stunning animation and character designs.
The anime is being produced by studio Orange, the same studio behind the visually impressive “TRIGUN STAMPEDE.” This promises a high level of animation quality and a unique visual style that will bring Westerfeld’s steampunk world to life.
Behind the Scenes of Leviathan
Christophe Ferreira is directing “Leviathan” at studio Orange, ensuring a cohesive vision for the adaptation. Justin Leach and Taiki Sakurai are producing the series, overseeing the project’s overall development and ensuring a smooth production process. The music is in the capable hands of Nobuko Toda, known for her work on “Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045,” and Kazuma Jinnouchi, who has contributed to iconic game soundtracks like “Metal Gear Solid 3” and “4,” as well as “Halo 4” and “5.” Adding to the musical talent, Joe Hisaishi, a long-time collaborator with Studio Ghibli, will be contributing original songs to the series. His involvement guarantees a beautiful and emotionally resonant score that will enhance the viewing experience.
What is Leviathan About?
Netflix provides a brief but intriguing description of the anime’s plot: “In 1914, on the eve of war, a fugitive prince and a girl in disguise meet aboard a bioengineered airship, the HMS Leviathan, and change the course of history.” This sets the stage for a thrilling adventure filled with political intrigue, technological marvels, and compelling characters. The story blends historical elements with steampunk fantasy, creating a unique and captivating world.
Why Leviathan is Worth Watching
“Leviathan” offers a compelling blend of genres and themes that appeal to a wide audience. Here’s why you should add it to your watchlist:
- Steampunk Setting: The series is set in an alternate version of World War I, where advanced technology and fantastical creatures coexist. This unique setting provides a visually stunning and imaginative backdrop for the story.
- Intriguing Characters: The fugitive prince and the girl in disguise are both compelling characters with their own secrets and motivations. Their unlikely meeting and subsequent adventures promise to be filled with drama and excitement.
- Political Intrigue: The story takes place on the eve of war, with various factions vying for power. This adds a layer of political intrigue to the narrative, making it more than just a simple adventure story.
- High-Quality Animation: With studio Orange at the helm, viewers can expect stunning animation and visual effects. The studio’s previous work on “TRIGUN STAMPEDE” demonstrates their ability to create visually impressive and engaging anime.
- Amazing Music: The involvement of Nobuko Toda, Kazuma Jinnouchi, and Joe Hisaishi ensures a memorable and emotionally resonant soundtrack. The music will play a crucial role in enhancing the viewing experience and bringing the world of “Leviathan” to life.
Expanding on the Leviathan Universe
Scott Westerfeld’s “Leviathan” novel series consists of three main books: “Leviathan,” “Behemoth,” and “Goliath.” The anime adaptation is expected to cover the events of these books, providing a comprehensive and faithful adaptation of the source material. The books have been praised for their imaginative world-building, compelling characters, and thrilling plotlines. The anime has the potential to introduce a new audience to this beloved series.
The Impact of Studio Orange
Studio Orange has quickly established itself as a leading animation studio, known for its innovative use of 3D animation and its commitment to quality. Their work on “TRIGUN STAMPEDE” was particularly noteworthy, as it successfully reimagined a classic anime series for a modern audience. With “Leviathan,” studio Orange has the opportunity to further showcase its talents and create a truly memorable anime adaptation.
Joe Hisaishi’s Contribution
Joe Hisaishi’s involvement in “Leviathan” is a major draw for fans of Studio Ghibli and anime music in general. Hisaishi is renowned for his iconic scores for films like “Spirited Away,” “My Neighbor Totoro,” and “Princess Mononoke.” His ability to create emotionally resonant and memorable music is unparalleled, and his contribution to “Leviathan” is sure to elevate the series to new heights.
Final Thoughts
The “Leviathan” anime is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated anime releases of the year. With its steampunk setting, intriguing characters, political intrigue, high-quality animation, and amazing music, it has all the ingredients for a truly memorable viewing experience. Be sure to catch it on Netflix starting July 10!
The blend of historical fiction and steampunk elements makes Leviathan a unique offering in the anime landscape. The story promises adventure, suspense, and a thought-provoking exploration of themes relevant even today. The series is poised to become a favorite among anime enthusiasts and newcomers alike.