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Entertainment Journalist and Marvel Comics Lover
Disney +’s long awaited series Star Wars: Visions is finally here after being officially announced in December of last year. The first season of this series consists of nine episodes, each being animated by one of seven different Japanese animation studios, many of whom share the spotlight as some of the leaders of anime animation worldwide.
These animation studios include:
- Kamikaze Douga (Jojo’s Bizzare Adventure) – The Duel
- Kinema Citrus (Made in Abyss) – The Village Bride
- Geno Studio (Golden Kamuy) – Lop and Ochō
- Studio Colorido (Penguin Highway) – Tatooine Rhapsody
- Trigger (Promare) – The Twins and The Elder
- Production I.G (Ghost in the Shell) – The Ninth Jedi
- Science Saru (Ride Your Wave) – T0-B1
The description of the show on IMDB follows suit:
Star Wars: Visions is a Star Wars anthology series that will see some of the world’s best anime creators bring their talent to this beloved universe.
The show is helmed by producers Justin Leach, Jacqui Lopez, Josh Rimes, Kanako Shirasaki, and James Waugh.
As the title states this will be a non-spoiler review, so read away with no worries. No spoilers will be talked about in my discussion.
Individuality In Star Wars: Visions
If I had to give one compliment about this show after watching Season One, it is that each studio on their own brings their own flair and prowess to the Star Wars universe uniquely. Every episode within itself feels like it could be a whole season on its own if given the right time and dedication from the individual teams.
From inspirations like the late and great Akira Kurosawa to almost punk rock aesthetics and fighting against the system put in place, every separate episode holds a piece of the pie for everyone from die-hard Star Wars fans to the most casual fan who may have only seen a movie or two.
The strongest part of the show is the flair and drama each individual animation style gives to each story. From gloomy and hard-fought battles, with a mix of classic Star Wars music and Japanese music to a lighthearted adventure about a rock band. It dips its style in every single corner of different aesthetics and succeeds perfectly at it.
Casual or Not?
As stated above, this show is perfect for casual fans. As perfect as The Mandalorian? That could be up for debate. Although, the one thing I know as a big Star Wars and anime nut my whole life, is that this aims to please the masses. The variety and especially the cameos from fan-favorite characters were a blast to see. I would bet my money that even the most casual fans would have a good time seeing some of their favorites showing up, too.
A question I asked quite a bit while watching was, ‘Could a person who dislikes anime still enjoy this?’ And I believe the answer that to be yes. One positive about this show is that as much as it is very much like anime with the animation style, it does not shove classic anime or ‘shonen’ tropes in your face. No overextended fights, no endless dialogue, and banter. It’s a perfect mix of what anime brings to the table for Star Wars and I could not get enough of it.
Ending Thoughts and Season Two?
As a recap, Star Wars: Visions is a great amalgamation of what Star Wars & anime can be. I believe Disney and all of these studios knocked it out of the park with this one, as seeing the credits roll on the last episode had me itching for more. I would love to see some of these episodes get continuations one way or another, if it may be in a second season or in some other fashion.
If I had a rating meter to give, I would give this show a 9 out of 10 kyber crystals.
Episodes to keep an eye out for as standouts:
Episode 1 – “The Duel ” Episode 3 – “The Twins” Episode 5 – “The Ninth Jedi”
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Entertainment Journalist and Marvel Comics Lover
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