Netflix has slowly built a reputation for having some of the best anime series in their library thanks to shows such as “Jujutsu Kaisen,” “Demon Slayer,” or “One Piece.” Now, a new anime show, this time from Japan, has climbed the charts quickly: “Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf.”
According to FlixPatrol, which collects viewership data, “Garouden” has reached the ninth spot of the Top 10 most-watched shows of the platform globally. And the animated show managed to do so in only three days after its release on May 23.
The series adapts the novel of the same name by Baku Yumemakura (which was also adapted into several mangas) and it was directed by Atsushi Ikariya, who is known for his work in other titles such as “Danjon meshi,” “Jujutsu Kaisen,” and “Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time.” Here’s what to know about his latest project.
‘Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf’ triumphs on Netflix
The series follows Juzo Fujimaki, a martial artist who is on the run after killing the attacker of his instructor’s daughter. Living as a fugitive, Juzo is coerced into joining a deadly underground fighting tournament called Kodoku.
The story centers on themes such as redemption, resilience, strength, and, of course, martial arts. During his journey, Juzo will have to face different adversaries, all with unique combat styles, while also confronting his past.
As many other anime series, the show offers a gritty, action-packed survival story. However, despite its appealing premise, the first reviews of the series are mixed. For example, Isaiah Colbert from IGN wrote about the series that “Exposition-heavy dialogue, sheepish line delivery, mediocre fight choreography, and TikTok filter-looking character designs make this a rough watch.”
Meanwhile, Adrian Ruiz from “But Why Tho?” wrote that the series brings back the “simplicity” of being “grounded in the authentic martial art styles that have inspired many beloved works,” but that the audience can’t “expect a groundbreaking plot or new-age animation.”
