review

✦

review ✦

Shinichiro Watanabe, the visionary behind some of the most iconic anime titles of all time, has returned with Lazarus, a futuristic thriller that’s already shaping up to be another legendary series. And, having screened the first five episodes ahead of its official release, we can say that it’s consistently made clear that Lazarus is a meticulously crafted experience that blends Watanabe’s signature storytelling with a fresh, ambitious narrative.

A Unique Journey That instantly Hooks You

From the very first episode, Lazarus demonstrates a masterful command of pacing that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats without ever feeling rushed. The series introduces its central mission—a race against a world-threatening catastrophe—gradually, peeling back layers of mystery with each installment. This slow-burn approach allows the audience to sink into the world and its stakes, while consistent cliffhangers ensure you’re left counting the days until the next episode.

The narrative unfolds with a deliberate rhythm, balancing immersive world-building with character-driven moments and bursts of action. By episode five, the mission’s scope feels both grand and almost episodically personal, proving that it can juggle its larger-than-life premise with intimate stakes. It’s a tightrope walk that Watanabe has perfected over the years, and Lazarus emphasizes that he’s still got the magic touch. Every episode feels like a puzzle piece slotting into place, building momentum without sacrificing depth—a rare feat in today’s fast-paced anime landscape.

Dynamic Characters: A Balanced Ensemble Led by a Standout Protagonist

If there’s one thing Watanabe is legendary for, it’s crafting unforgettable characters, and Lazarus is no exception. The ensemble here is a perfectly balanced team, each member bringing a distinct personality that deepens with every episode. There’s no weak link in the Lazarus crew, but the early arc undeniably belongs to Axel, the carefree yet powerful protagonist who’s quickly becoming the heart of the series.

Axel is a breath of fresh air—a badass, charming, and slightly reckless icon who embodies the best traits of a Watanabe lead. His peaceful demeanor clashes beautifully with his penchant for chaos, making him both relatable and larger-than-life. Whether he’s cracking a sly grin in the face of danger or unleashing his skills in a jaw-dropping fight, Axel’s presence is magnetic. The show takes its time to flesh him out, revealing new layers to his character that hint at a complex past and an even more compelling future.

The supporting cast is just as impressive, with each member given moments to shine. Their interactions feel organic, their banter sharp, and their individual quirks endearing. Watanabe has poured his signature care into this team, ensuring that no one feels like a mere plot device. By episode five, you’re invested in every single one of them—a hallmark of a truly great ensemble.

A Fascinating World: Familiar Yet Far-Off

Lazarus takes place on a futuristic Earth that’s equal parts captivating and unsettling. Society here relies on mood-altering and medically beneficial substances to “enhance” life, a concept that’s introduced with subtle world-building and sharp attention to detail. The show doesn’t shy away from critiquing humanity’s ignorance toward the environment, painting a picture of a planet built on the ruins of our own neglect. Towering skyscrapers rise above dilapidated remnants of the past, while cool weaponry, innovative transportation, and sleek tech ground this world in a tangible yet fantastical reality.

What makes this setting so compelling is its balance of familiarity and otherness. It’s a version of Earth that feels like it could be just a few centuries away, yet the looming threat of life grinding to a halt elevates the stakes to a near-apocalyptic level. The world grows richer with each episode, revealing new corners of its society and technology that keep you hooked. It’s a playground that’s both fun and thought-provoking, offering endless potential for the story to explore.

Pristine Visuals: Anime-of-the Year Contender

Visually, Lazarus is another triumph. The animation is top-notch, seamlessly blending the dilapidated remnants of a recognizable Earth with futuristic cyber-punk marvels. The juxtaposition of crumbling structures and sleek, towering buildings is striking, brought to life with a level of detail that rewards multiple viewings. Character designs are sharp and distinct, making every member of the Lazarus crew instantly recognizable—a small but crucial touch that enhances the storytelling.

The action scenes, however, are where the animation truly shines. They’re gripping, cinematic, and fully fleshed-out, with choreography that feels both brutal and elegant. Whether it’s Axel dodging a hail of bullets or the team facing off against a high-tech threat, these sequences are a testament to the show’s production values. The color palette, lighting, and fluidity of movement all come together to create a visual experience that’s as immersive as the story itself. No expense was spared in bringing Watanabe’s vision to life.

Shinichiro Watanabe Continues to Prove That He's the Greatest of All Time

At this point, calling Watanabe a legend feels like an understatement. With a resume that includes Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, Space Dandy, Carole & Tuesday, Michiko & Hatchin, and Terror in Resonance, he’s built a legacy of rich, genre-defining worlds. Lazarus feels like both a culmination of his past work and a bold step into uncharted territory. There are echoes of his previous series here—most notably Bebop in its jazz-infused vibe and lone-wolf protagonist—but the show carves out its own identity with a forced team dynamic, a specific world-threatening mission, and a fresh take on modern society.

Watanabe’s ability to blend the familiar with the new is on full display. The nods to his past works are subtle but delightful, like Easter eggs for longtime fans, yet Lazarus never leans too heavily on nostalgia. Instead, it feels like a playground designed for both the creator and the audience—a space where Watanabe can flex his storytelling muscles while inviting viewers to lose themselves in something entirely original. Five episodes in, it’s already clear that this is a series with real staying power.

Score: 9.5/10

With its breathtaking animation, engaging storytelling, and masterful direction, the first five episodes of Lazarus prove that it has everything needed to be a modern masterpiece.