The anticipation has finally come to an end with the premiere of a new Isekai series titled Zenshu. This original animated project, helmed by the renowned MAPPA studio, aims to deliver a fresh interpretation of this highly popular genre.
In a unique and self-referential twist, Zenshu blends the professional and personal hurdles faced by animators with the fantastical elements commonly found in anime. This innovative approach allows the series to delve into the intricacies of the animation industry while providing entertaining storytelling.
This show strikes an engaging balance between humor and critical themes surrounding mental health and creative burnout. If it maintains this equilibrium in its inaugural season, Zenshu could very well rise to become a standout in the Isekai landscape.
A Day in Natsuko’s Life
Meet Natsuko Hirose, the gifted protagonist whose talent skyrockets her to fame after the debut of her first anime. As she embarks on her directorial journey, she encounters unexpected challenges, particularly when assigned to create a romantic comedy—her least favorite genre.
After facing overwhelming pressure in the animation studio, Natsuko tragically collapses from exhaustion, signaling the onset of her Isekai adventure.
A New World Awaits
Natsuko awakens amidst vast, sandy dunes, where she is quickly confronted by enormous insect-like creatures known as Voids. To her astonishment, she is rescued by the principal characters from her cherished childhood anime, A Tale of Perishing.
This motley crew includes the shape-shifting Unicorn, Unio; the archetypal elf, Memurun; the enigmatic totem, QJ; and their bravado-laden knight leader, Luke Braveheart. Their quirky and satirical dispositions stand in stark contrast to the traditionally serious characters predominant in the Isekai genre.
Natsuko humorously questions her reincarnation into this world, reflecting that such occurrences typically befall “shut-ins”or “NEETs”(not in employment, education, or training).
As she navigates her new reality, she realizes her extensive knowledge about this universe, including a catastrophic ambush by the Voids, which will lead to Unio’s demise.
Reimagining Her Fate
During the ensuing confrontation, Natsuko grapples with how to prevent Unio’s tragic fate. To her surprise, her pegbar—a tool used in animation—begins to communicate with her, urging her to “draw.”Just before Unio’s impending disaster, Natsuko leaps into action, instinctively relying on her artistic expertise.
Her animation tools manifest in her new world, reminiscent of a Stand from Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure. In a frenzied attempt to finish her project, Natsuko draws fervently, conjuring a colossal hand-drawn entity that obliterates the Voids in one decisive blow.
What Lies Ahead?
As the episode comes to a close, the fantasy ensemble begins to appreciate Natsuko’s talents. Luke Braveheart carries her, finally addressing her by name, hinting at newfound respect between the characters.
The trajectory of the series remains somewhat unpredictable, especially considering it is not adapted from any manga. Given the themes surrounding the challenges within the animation industry, audiences can anticipate further exploration of Natsuko’s creative journey as she traverses her challenges while navigating this fantastical realm.
It remains to be seen if the narrative will remain anchored in this fantasy world or expand into different anime universes. Regardless, this inaugural episode holds promise, adeptly addressing significant yet often overlooked themes in the genre, accompanied by levity from its humorous side characters. MAPPA may very well be onto something remarkable with this series.
Catch the next episode on Crunchyroll next week at 6:45 PT, and follow Hirose Natsuko’s thrilling adventures!
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