Netflix Is Losing Two Hit Anime Series That You Need To Watch Right Now
Netflix will soon be dropping two popular anime series from its lineup. The Promised Neverland and Erased will be leaving the platform on September 1 following the expiration of the streamer’s licensing deal. Fortunately, both shows have concluded their respective runs, so fans can watch them in their entirety before they disappear.
The Promised Neverland is a dark fantasy thriller anime based on the manga by Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu. The story is set in an orphanage called Grace Field House, where Emma, Norman, and Ray live happily under the care of their “mother.” However, they soon discover a horrifying truth – the orphanage is a farm where they are raised as food for mysterious creatures called demons.
The Promised Neverland received widespread acclaim for its intense story, well-developed characters, and unique premise.
Determined to escape, the children must outsmart their captors and uncover the secrets of the world outside the orphanage. Mamoru Kanbe directed The Promised Neverland, with Toshiya Ono handling the writing duties. The popular Netflix series was produced by CloverWorks, which delivered exceptional animation and artistry.
The Promised Neverland originally aired from January 10 to March 29, 2019. The anime received widespread acclaim for its intense story, well-developed characters, and unique premise. The series became available on Netflix in Japan, Italy, Singapore, and Thailand in August 2020. On September 1 of the same year, the anime began streaming on the platform in North America and Latin America.
Due to its success, a second season of The Promised Neverland was released from January 8 to March 26, 2021, and was also available on Netflix. A live-action film adaptation was also released in Japan in December 2020. An English-language live-action adaptation of the anime series was in development for Amazon Prime Video by Amazon Studios and 20th Television as of June 2020.
The Promised Neverland and Erased depart Netflix on September 1.
Erased is a psychological thriller and supernatural anime based on the manga by Kei Sanbe. The story follows Satoru Fujinuma, a 29-year-old aspiring manga artist with a unique ability called “revival,” which sends him back in time to prevent life-threatening events from happening. When tragedy strikes, and his mother is killed, Satoru is sent back 18 years in time.
Netflix viewers praised the animation quality and direction of Erased, with each episode keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
In the past, Satoru is confronted with sights he thought were lost forever – the radiant smile of his mother, old friends, and Kayo Hinazuki, the girl who was tragically kidnapped and murdered during his childhood. Determined to alter her fate and return to the present, Satoru devises a plan against the looming threat and the relentless passage of time.
Erased was directed by Tomohiko Itō and written by Taku Kishimoto. The animation studio A-1 Pictures brought this enthralling story to life on the screen. The series aired from January 8 to March 25, 2016, and received critical acclaim. Netflix viewers praised the animation quality and direction, with each episode keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
Beyond the anime, Erased also received a live-action adaptation in Japan and several international adaptations, including a Netflix live-action series in 2017. The anime’s theme song, “Re:Re:” by Asian Kung-Fu Generation, became immensely popular, further solidifying the show’s impact on pop culture.
Netflix boasts an expansive collection of anime that includes classics and new releases. Within the platform’s dedicated anime section, viewers can indulge in animated films and television shows, ranging from action-packed adventures to quirky comedies and heartwarming tales. The streamer is also the exclusive international distributor for several anime series.
Netflix’s Current Anime Catalog
To keep its anime offerings fresh and exciting, Netflix consistently updates its anime catalog and allocates substantial resources to further enrich the space. Some of the popular anime series available have included Attack on Titan, Beastars, Blue Period, Cardcaptor Sakura, and Children of the Whales, and Cowboy Bebop.
In addition to series, Netflix gives viewers access to an assortment of anime movies featuring well-loved masterpieces such as Your Name, A Silent Voice, Spirited Away, and My Neighbor Totoro. To further cater to fans, multiple seasons of Pokémon Sun and Moon are also available for streaming. The Promised Neverland and Erased will still be available for the next few weeks.
