Anime has increasingly gained significant space on streaming platforms. However, in addition to the most popular titles, which tend to be the most targeted and sought after, there are also interesting works that follow more alternative and cult approaches.
If you’re interested in watching an anime that deviates from the norm or more diverse works, we’ve listed 10 titles in this profile available on streaming platforms.
Cult anime to watch
Devilman crybaby
The adaptation of Go Nagai’s cult manga, “Devilman Crybaby” is a fantasy and horror anime with a more experimental and artistic approach. The opera is directed by the famous Masaaki Yuasa and written by Ichirō Ōkouchi.
In the story, an ancient race of demons awakens to dominate the Earth. The cold and enigmatic Ryo suggests to his best friend, the kind Akira, to join one of the demons. Akira thus acquires superpowers and becomes Devilman, while maintaining his human essence.
Netflix.
Cowboy bebop
One of the most famous and appreciated cult anime, “Cowboy Bebop” mixes science fiction, space adventures, westerns, noir and action films. Additionally, the anime has a strong musical influence and features an acclaimed jazz soundtrack.
The story is set in the year 2071 and follows a group of space bounty hunters who travel the galaxy aboard the spaceship Bebop.
Netflix.
Berserk (1997 – 1998)
Adaptation of the famous manga by Kentaro Miura, “Berserk” is an intense anime full of action, horror and dark fantasy.
The story revolves around Guts, a fearless warrior immersed in a magical medieval universe infested with demons.
The anime’s plot takes place during the arc known as “The Golden Age”, exploring the protagonist’s past events and his impactful encounter with Griffith, a charismatic and mysterious leader of a group of mercenaries seeking of fame and glory.
Netflix.
Monster
Adapted from Naoki Urasawa’s acclaimed manga of the same name, “Monster” is an animated thriller series. The anime has a gripping plot full of twists and turns.
The story follows a talented Japanese neurosurgeon at a large German hospital whose life is shaken when he goes against his superiors’ orders and decides to save the lives of twins instead of a powerful figure.
However, he could not have predicted that one of these children would turn into an evil serial killer in the future.
Netflix.
Pluto
Another adaptation of a manga by Naoki Urasawa, “Pluto” is a series that combines elements of a crime thriller and science fiction.
The original manga is a reinterpretation of the classic narrative arc of “Astro Boy”, the work of Osamu Tezuka, one of the most influential Japanese comics authors.
In a futuristic scenario, a series of murders shakes society, making victims of both famous robots and human activists committed to machine rights. Robot detective Gesicht takes charge of the investigation when he realizes that his very existence may be in danger at the hands of the mysterious criminal.
The narrative is full of twists and intrigue, and the unfolding events could determine the fate of the entire world.
Netflix.
Lupine III
Originally created as a manga in 1967 by Monkey Punch, “Lupine III” has become an iconic figure in Japanese pop culture over the years.
Mixing elements of action, adventure and comedy, the franchise tells entertaining stories of robberies and scams starring Arsène Lupine III, grandson of the famous character of the same name created by the French writer Maurice Leblanc.
The Lupine III franchise includes TV anime, films, and specials. On television the series is divided into parts, with mainly episodic and autonomous stories. Are they:
Parts 4 and 5 are available to Amazon Prime Video subscribers. Part 6, for HBO Max subscribers.
Vinland Saga
This adaptation of Makoto Yukimura’s acclaimed manga features research into Norse culture and Vikings. The series combines elements of action and drama.
The plot follows the life of Thorfin, a Viking warrior who witnesses his father’s murder and embarks on a journey to seek revenge. To achieve his goal, he joins the group led by the man responsible for his father’s death, the mercenary Askeladd.
The anime takes place during real historical events from the period of Anglo-Saxon England, presenting a fictionalized narrative that incorporates authentic elements of the era.
Netflix and PrimeVideo.
Dororo (2019)
Reinterpretation of yet another work by Osamu Tezuka, “Dororo” is an anime that mixes action and drama. The animation is set in the Sengoku period of feudal Japan, but with the presence of monstrous and demonic creatures.
The story follows Hyakkimaru, whose body was sacrificed by his father in a pact with 48 demons to achieve power.
Abandoned by his family, Hyakkimaru receives wooden prosthetics from a healer and embarks on a journey to defeat demons and recover his lost body parts. During the adventure he makes friends with Dororo, a young thief.
Amazon Prime Video.
Blade of the Immortal (2019)
Animation that adapts the manga by Hiroaki Samura, “Blade of the Immortal” brings an intense narrative set in Japan during the Tokugawa shogunate. The work explores themes such as violence and revenge in a difficult period in the country’s history.
The plot follows the ronin Manji, a swordsman cursed with immortality. Tired of a life full of fighting and violence, he searches for a way to break the curse and become mortal again.
During her journey, Manju meets Rin, a young woman determined to avenge the massacre of her family. Together, the two will embark on this journey of revenge, life and death.
Amazon Prime Video.
Children on the track
Animation directed by Shinichiro Watanabe (the same as “Cowboy Bebop”), “Kids on the Slope” is a drama series with touches of comedy and romance. The anime is an adaptation of Yuki Kodama’s manga.
The story follows an exemplary but introverted student who discovers jazz through his friendship with his delinquent classmate.
With a focus on music, the animation has received critical acclaim and has a highly praised soundtrack.
HBO Max.
The post The 10 Best Cult Anime Available to Watch Streaming appeared first on Olhar Digital.
Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
