The Upcoming Tomb Raider Animation Series on Netflix
American animation studio, Powerhouse Animation, is setting the stage for a brand new animated series based on the celebrated franchise, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft. The visual appeal of the series has caused a certain level of intrigue and a hint of confusion among ardent fans. Angst arises due to the series’ apparent resemblances to anime, despite that not being the case.
Recognizing the Difference: It’s Not an Anime
Regardless of the evident Japanese-inspired animation and elaborate action sequences, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft does not fall under the anime genre. Ensuring its status as an American animation, it is apt to mention that the Austin, Texas-based studio is backing this exciting venture.
The genre and origin create a clear-cut line that stands between this series and others of its kind. A quick look at the trailer presents a uniquely dynamic content, paving the way for comparisons with the Eastern counterpart despite the stern difference.
Powerhouse Animation Studios struck a deal with Netflix in 2021, laying the foundation for an assortment of animated shows on their platform. A testament to their successful partnership, the hit series Castlevania was launched, followed by an exciting sequel in 2023.
Western Influence in Anime: A Stir Among Fans
Devoted anime enthusiasts have noticed a surge in the Western influence shadowing recent anime productions. This sweeping trend largely results from cultural exchanges and the soaring popularity of anime in the western countries.
Fans have pointed out noticeable Western inspirations in animes such as Trigun, Black Lagoon, and Great Pretender. While some, like Cowboy Bebop, have harnessed these influences to their advantage, others have failed to eschew the perception of being mere Western clones, throwing shade to their authenticity as anime.
On the flip side, certain American animations like the renowned series Avatar: The Last Airbender, often get ensnared in classification confusion due to their evident Japanese anime influence.
Influence in Animation: A Two-way Street
The influence between Western and Eastern media stands as a two-way conversation that’s been ongoing for quite some time. The King Kong Show, attributed as an early adopter of anime inspirations, was a joint project by Japan’s Toei Animation and America’s Videocraft back in the late 60s.
Over the years, various projects, including Transformers, and shows like X-Men, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Animaniacs, and Spider-Man have seen Japanese collaborations. Some have even outsourced the animation to Japan.
Such influences, though invigorating for the creative process, can dilute the original genre’s essence. It becomes pivotal for animators, whether Western or Eastern, to maintain their authentic traditions for their art to manifest authentically.
Sailing into the Horizon: Anticipation Rising for Tomb Raider
Amid these ongoing discussions and debates, the excitement is mounting for Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft. The show is ready for its inauguration on Netflix, come October 10, 2024. As the debut draws near, fans are eager to see how this blend of Western animation and a dash of Eastern influence unfolds.
The world waits with bated breath to delve into this exciting adventure, promising an intriguing fusion of Western animation with Eastern inspirations.
For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/netflixs-new-animated-tomb-raider-series-sparks-anime-debate-among-fans/