ANIME MANGA EXPLOSION - Season 2

First aired: 1/28/2024 10 episodes

Episodes

1. Male Idol Anime Special

Aired: 1/28/2024

This time, we introduce you to male idol anime, a booming genre in Japan. We feature IDOLiSH7 the Movie, an anime production with a new style of animation that includes 3D CG live performances. Hear directly from the production staff and learn how the unique anime came together. Also, don't miss KING OF PRISM, which includes inventive ways for the audience to connect with the characters. What is the secret behind the immense popularity of male idol anime? Join us and find out!

2. Legendary Creator Nagai Go

Aired: 2/25/2024

This episode features Nagai Go, a manga artist who has released over 180 works, including Mazinger Z, which turned Japanese robot anime into a global phenomenon. We learn about how the mixed-media pioneer found his calling and the secrets behind his groundbreaking dark fantasy Devilman. Join us and discover what has driven Nagai Go to create for over 57 years.

3. Legendary Producer Maruyama Masao

Aired: 4/28/2024

This time, we get to know anime's pioneering force, Maruyama Masao. His illustrious career spans over 330 titles, including classics like Ninja Scroll, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and In This Corner Of The World. Plus, discover the untold story behind his latest work 14 years in the making, PLUTO. Watch and find out how the passionate and dedicated 82-year-old veteran continues to push the anime industry forward.

4. Legendary Creator Amano Yoshitaka

Aired: 5/26/2024

This time, we feature artist and character designer Amano Yoshitaka. With a career that spans decades, Amano created some of Japan's most iconic anime characters, including Yatterman and Casshan. Amano was also instrumental in shaping the world of FINAL FANTASY, one of the most beloved game series of all time with 37 years of history. Now, at 72, Amano shows no signs of slowing down. Watch and discover what keeps his creative spark as bright as ever.

5. FEATURED ANIMATION ARTIST Tachikawa Yuzuru

Aired: 7/21/2024

This episode spotlights the talented Tachikawa Yuzuru, director of hits like Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine and BLUE GIANT. Known for gripping narratives that capture the complexity of human emotions, Tachikawa put his skills to full use in his first theatrical release, Death Billiards. Watch his thrilling original film in full, where a life-or-death billiards game unfolds in a mysterious bar.

6. Girl Band Anime

Aired: 7/28/2024

This time, we take a look at the booming genre of girl band anime. Learn the origins of BanG Dream!, where voice actors rock out in real live bands, and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at BOCCHI THE ROCK!, renowned for its authentic guitar rock scenes.

7. THE MOBILE POLICE PATLABOR Special

Aired: 9/29/2024

In this episode, we spotlight THE MOBILE POLICE PATLABOR, a series that remains immensely popular more than 30 years after its debut. Why does it continue to fascinate to this day? Uncover its secrets and discover the series' creative genius. Plus, we've received exclusive permission to take you behind the scenes of the new series THE MOBILE POLICE PATLABOR EZY and get an in-depth look at the production process.

8. THE ANIME STUDIO: CloverWorks

Aired: 10/27/2024

This episode spotlights CloverWorks, the acclaimed animation studio established in 2018, celebrated for its stunning visuals and dramatic storytelling. Join us behind the scenes of their latest film project. Plus, get insights from anime opening experts and discover how they continue to raise the next generation of talented animators.

9. FEATURED ANIMATION ARTIST: Ishida Hiroyasu

Aired: 11/24/2024

This episode spotlights Ishida Hiroyasu, a standout animation director recognized early for his talent and known for his exhilarating, fast-paced storytelling in films like Penguin Highway. Join us and enjoy the full version of his feature film directorial debut, Sonny Boy & Dewdrop Girl. The heartwarming story follows the adventures of Hinata, a boy with a vivid imagination, as he tries to express his feelings to his crush, Shigure.

10. BEASTARS Special

Aired: 12/29/2024

This episode features BEASTARS, a popular manga that uses a world of anthropomorphic animals to explore modern social issues. Through an exclusive interview with creator Itagaki Paru, learn how BEASTARS came to life and the passion behind it. Plus, take a behind-the-scenes look at the anime's final season and the innovations that enhance its realism.