The animated series Olive et Tom is an adaptation of Yoichi Takahashi’s manga, totaling 37 volumes (available from Glénat Publications). Over the years, several spin-offs of the series have appeared, including Captain Tsubasa: World Youth, Captain Tsubasa: The Road in 2002 (published at the World Cup organized by Japan together with South Korea) or even Captain Tsubasa: Rising SunCurrently published in Japan.
The true phenomenon series Olive et Tom has captivated several generations of viewers since the 80’s and inspired their passion for football in a large number of professional footballers, one of whom is Kylian Mbappe!
In 2018, a new adaptation of the 52-episode manga was released, retaining the original title of the work – Captain Tsubasa – but also the Japanese names of the main characters (see glossary below).
What is it about?
Olivier is a young football-loving boy. his dream Become the best player in the world! In a new city, he discovers many young talents with whom he can progress and try to make his dream come true! What’s more, the young footballer can count on Brazilian football star Roberto to guide him and overcome all obstacles! When attending an impromptu match, a player will mark it in a big way. But who is this young prodigy who keeps goals like no other? Will Olivier be able to overcome it?
At what age should you watch this anime?
AlloCiné editors recommend this program for ages 10 and up. The series does not contain violent scenes, except for very intense games and non-graphic injuries.
What does it look like ?
Why do your teenagers love it?
- To define his main character, he is ready to do everything to take the Japanese national team to the top of international football!
- Unreal of course for his football followers, but so spectacular!
- For opponents of Olivier, all followers of a different form of football!
Who are the main characters?
- Olivier Aton, aka Tsubasa Ozora in Japanese: This young soccer prodigy seems to have been born with a ball on his finger. A newcomer to the city, the latter will have to establish himself in the local team, which is the first essential step in realizing his dream of winning the World Cup with the Japanese national team.
- Thomas Price, nicknamed Genzo Wakabayashi in Japanese: Goalkeeper and captain of New Team, the latter seemingly an opponent of Olivier. But behind his arrogance lies a real talent. Because Thomas has the legendary record of never conceding a single goal with a shot from outside the penalty area!
- Mark Landers, aka Kojiro Hyuga in Japanese: Olivier’s main rival throughout the series, this explosive striker is driven by a rage for victory like no other. A follower of an attacking game that focuses more on physical strength than technique, Marc fires cannonballs that usually leave opposing goalkeepers with no chance.
- Bruce Harper, aka Ryo Ishizaki in Japanese: While his best friend Olivier represents the hope of world football, Bruce is a player with more limited qualities. But he makes up for his technical flaws with an unwavering bravado that doesn’t shy away from using his body to block his opponents’ shots.
- Twin Brothers Derrick, aka Tachibana in Japanese: The iconic characters of the series, these identical twins compete imaginatively to develop extraordinary techniques. Among their secret tricks is the catapult, which consists of launching one of the two players into the air using the sole power of their legs to perform an acrobatic kick!
An anecdote that will surprise your teenager!
- Olivier is inspired by Japanese footballers Musashi Mizushima and Kazuyoshi Miura, who both play professionally in the Brazilian championship and wear the colors of legend Pele’s mythical club Santos.
- Do the credits roll? This is normal, because the music is plagiarized from the Italian credits of the animated series Lupine III: only the lyrics have been changed, the music has remained the same.
Where should you watch this anime and how much will it cost?
On the Youtube channel, all episodes are completely free and legal to offer!
The Captain Tsubasa remake is available on the MyTF1 VOD platform (also free).
Also available in manga (37 volumes, €6.90 each sold by publisher Glénat).
What other sports anime should you watch with your teenager next?
- Slam Dunk, a basketball series with a more mature and realistic tone.
- Eyeshield 21, an American football series from the cartoonist of One-Punch Man.
- Inazuma Eleven, another football series in which the hero this time takes the position of a goalkeeper.
Source: allocine
Camila Luna is a writer at Gossipify, where she covers the latest movies and television series. With a passion for all things entertainment, Camila brings her unique perspective to her writing and offers readers an inside look at the industry. Camila is a graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with a degree in English and is also a avid movie watcher.
