Hailing from the classic 1960s manga by the acclaimed Shigeru Mizuki, known for the award-winning GeGeGe no Kitaro, Akuma Kun has already etched its name in the records of anime history. With multiple manga adaptations, an RPG, a live-action TV show, two movies, and an anime that originally aired between 1989 and 1990, anticipation runs high for Netflix‘s take on this beloved story. This new anime is part of a campaign commemorating Mizuki’s 100th birthday, and is set 30 years after the 1989 TV anime series. Here is everything you need to know about Akuma Kun anime.
What’s Akuma Kun Release Date?
Mark your calendars! Akuma Kun is set to premiere globally on Netflix on November 9, 2023. After the announcement in 2021, fans have eagerly awaited for this thrilling release. Get ready to embark on an animated horror adventure and confront demons lurking in the shadows.
What’s Akuma Kun Plot?
According to Netflix, Akuma Kun narrates the tale of a peculiar young boy striving to rescue the world from conflict, strife, and hunger, aided by some unlikely (and demonic) allies. But can he succeed? The story brims with elements found in the original manga: a child prodigy, known as Akuma-kun, who appears once every 10,000 years, surrounded by demons drawn from myths and folktales worldwide, and the use of dark magic.
Sneak Peek: Is There a Trailer?
Netflix has been teasing fans with several trailers that offer glimpses into the mysterious and dark world of Akuma Kun. The excitement began with the first teaser trailer in May 2023, followed by another in August. A series of “countdown” videos was also released, with the initial one debuting on October 30. You can watch it below:
Meet Akuma Kun Cast
The stellar cast features:
- Yuki Kaji as Akuma Kun /Ichiro Umoregi
- Toshio Furukawa as Mephisto III/Mephisto II
- Ryoko Shiraishi as Sanae Kazama
- Yumiri Hanamori as Mio Kazama
- Ai Fayrouz as Gremory
- Yukiyo Fujii as Hina Asanagi
- Michiyo Yanagisawa as Etsuko Umoregi
- Yusaku Yara as Satan
- Hiro Shimono as Strofire
- Yuko Mita as First Akuma Kun/Shingo Umoregi
Akuma Kun stands as one of four commemoration projects celebrating the 100th anniversary of Shigeru Mizuki’s birth. Despite the legendary manga artist’s passing in 2015 at the age of 93, his legacy endures, continuing to inspire audiences worldwide. It’s this enduring influence that led to the careful selection of the cast and production team.
Who’s Making Akuma Kun Anime?
Junichi Sato, renowned for his work on the Aria franchise and Sailor Moon, returns as the series’ chief director. He is joined by Fumitoshi Oizaki from A Centaur’s Life and Romeo x Juliet. With Sato’s previous involvement in the TV anime adaptation and its two films, you can expect the new Netflix series to maintain the enchanting essence of its predecessors.
Produced by Toei Animation (known for Sailor Moon Eternal and Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai) and backed by Encourage Films (founded by ex-Gonzo producer Toyo Ikeda and director Fumitoshi Oizaki), Akuma Kun boasts a talented team that promises nothing but excellence.
Ending Notes
Akuma Kun anime is a timeless classic, and with Netflix’s vision, we can expect it to become one of the best anime series on Netflix. A new generation of fans will immerse themselves in Shigeru Mizaki’s enchanting world. So, are you ready for the premiere of on November 9th? Because we certainly are.
