Lazarus Struggles to Meet High Expectations in Anime Revival

LOS ANGELES, California — The highly anticipated anime series ‘Lazarus,’ created by renowned director Shinichirō Watanabe, has premiered to mixed reviews following its first five episodes. Known for his previous work on the iconic ‘Cowboy Bebop,’ Watanabe’s latest project is backed by action director Chad Stahelski and a compelling soundtrack featuring Kamasi Washington, Floating Points, and Bonobos.

Set in the year 2052, ‘Lazarus’ introduces a world rocked by the emergence of a powerful painkiller called Hapna, which has become wildly popular, leaving much of the population in a state of blissful numbness. The drug’s creator, Dr. Skinner, sets a dire countdown, announcing that everyone who has taken Hapna will die within 30 days. This shocking premise hooks viewers, enticing them to explore how society grapples with the impending doom.

“Dropping such a nuclear event in the first episode is a bold decision,” said a viewer who appreciated the urgency of the storyline. The initial episodes are filled with intense visuals and layered context, but some critics point out that the dialogue feels clunky and the acting—particularly in the English version—falls flat.

The series adopts a cold visual style, featuring desaturated colors and metallic designs, matching the detached demeanor of its characters, primarily a team of elite operatives tasked with retrieving a cure from Dr. Skinner. However, the action sequences, while engaging, often lack tension due to the hyper-competence of the characters, which may leave viewers wanting more.

“The action, although well-animated, sometimes feels a bit too familiar,” noted an anime reviewer. “There’s a notable scene involving a helicopter and an innovative glider that stands out, but much of the combat lacks substantial peril.”

Additionally, the characters’ emotional arcs are called into question. Protagonist Axel and his colleagues are skilled and seemingly unfazed by their monumental mission to save billions. Critics argue this emotional detachment prevents any genuine investment in their struggles. “I want to feel the effect of each hour passing, bringing us closer to doom,” expressed one disappointed viewer. “But everything seems like a game to Axel.”

Watanabe’s commentary on modern society’s relationship with pain is a significant theme throughout the series, though it is often conveyed through heavy monologues that don’t fully delve into their implications. Characters sporadically reflect on their experiences with Hapna, but this leaves many questions—particularly about Skinner’s motivations—unaddressed.

While ‘Lazarus’ certainly sets a dramatic stage and creates intriguing narratives, it struggles to maintain the lively energy fans have come to expect from Watanabe’s previous works. The apocalyptic stakes offer some dynamic tension, and sporadic moments of inventive action suggest potential growth in future installments. However, for now, the first five episodes leave audiences feeling underwhelmed, with a promise unfulfilled.

As the series continues, viewers remain hopeful that it will achieve the depth and engagement that its compelling premise deserves.