When Netflix began producing its own original TV programs and movies, it became one of the major players in Hollywood. Now, the company is focused on expanding and its plan includes Japanese animation too.
During the event in Tokyo, Netflix revealed that it is now revamping its anime line-up with an extensive list of programs. Toei Animation and Netflix also announced their plans to remake the famous anime series “Saint Seiya.”
The first ‘Saint Seiya’
The original “Saint Seiya” became popular with fans and ran from 1986 to 1989.
Because of its massive fan-base, it got multiple film adaptations as well as spinoff shows.
The series follows the adventure of the young orphan named Seiya. Seiya becomes a mystical warrior also known as Saint. Together with his four fellow Saints, they fight for the Greek goddess Athena. Each of the Saints wears powerful armors based on their zodiac constellations. The team also defends the Earth from the evil gods who plan to take over the planet.
The original anime series is heavily borrowed from the Greek mythology and science fiction. The Saints need to protect Athena from other gods while protecting the planet earth.
The remake
The remake will be named “Knights of the Zodiac: Saint Seiya.” Netflix confirmed that the first season will consist of 12 half-hour episodes. It will also cover the first four arcs of the original “Saint Seiya” series and will tackle the Galaxy War to Silver Saint arcs.
Yoshiharu Ashino is set to direct the new adaptation. Ashino is also the person behind the popular “D. Gray Man Hallow.”
When will it be released?
Netflix is yet to confirm when the release date for the “Knights of the Zodiac: Saint Seiya” would be. However, there were clues left on the released poster for the show. It states that it is already “coming soon.”
More series for Netflix
Netflix is continuously reviving the iconic animatic classics.
Its other Japanese adaptation, “Voltron: Legendary Defender” premiered its third season last Friday. The series was a huge hit even for fans of the original one. It also received a number of nominations for different awards.
Since “Voltron” was aired almost the same time as “Saint Saiya,” it means that a lot of “Voltron” fans will be acquainted with the series. That being said, it looks like Netflix will be making its way in remaking more anime series in the future.
Also on the run is “Baki” of Keisuke Itagaki. The series follows the story of Baki Hanma and his fellow underground martial artists as they face the five most dangerous death row inmates around the world. The series will be composed of 26 episodes.