About this season
The size of the Japanese animation market was 2,426 billion yen by 2020. More than half of that amount came from overseas sales. The manga market is also expanding, reaching 675.9 billion yen in 2021. Those unique visuals and stories from Japan have struck a chord with fans around the world and are growing into a huge industry. ANIME MANGA EXPLOSION will actively feature major works that are highly recognized by overseas fans and reveal the secrets of Japanese anime and manga creation through the series.
Episodes (10)
1. Male Idol Anime Special
Aired 28 January 2024 • 28 min
This time, we introduce you to male idol anime, a booming genre in Japan. We feature IDOLiSH7 the Movie, an anime production with a new style of animation that includes 3D CG live performances. Hear directly from the production staff and learn how the unique anime came together. Also, don't miss KING OF PRISM, which includes inventive ways for the audience to connect with the characters. What is the secret behind the immense popularity of male idol anime? Join us and find out!
2. Legendary Creator Nagai Go
Aired 25 February 2024 • 28 min
This episode features Nagai Go, a manga artist who has released over 180 works, including Mazinger Z, which turned Japanese robot anime into a global phenomenon. We learn about how the mixed-media pioneer found his calling and the secrets behind his groundbreaking dark fantasy Devilman. Join us and discover what has driven Nagai Go to create for over 57 years.
3. Legendary Producer Maruyama Masao
Aired 28 April 2024 • 28 min
This time, we get to know anime's pioneering force, Maruyama Masao. His illustrious career spans over 330 titles, including classics like Ninja Scroll, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and In This Corner Of The World. Plus, discover the untold story behind his latest work 14 years in the making, PLUTO. Watch and find out how the passionate and dedicated 82-year-old veteran continues to push the anime industry forward.
4. Legendary Creator Amano Yoshitaka
Aired 26 May 2024 • 28 min
This time, we feature artist and character designer Amano Yoshitaka. With a career that spans decades, Amano created some of Japan's most iconic anime characters, including Yatterman and Casshan. Amano was also instrumental in shaping the world of FINAL FANTASY, one of the most beloved game series of all time with 37 years of history. Now, at 72, Amano shows no signs of slowing down. Watch and discover what keeps his creative spark as bright as ever.
5. FEATURED ANIMATION ARTIST Tachikawa Yuzuru
Aired 21 July 2024 • 28 min
This episode spotlights the talented Tachikawa Yuzuru, director of hits like Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine and BLUE GIANT. Known for gripping narratives that capture the complexity of human emotions, Tachikawa put his skills to full use in his first theatrical release, Death Billiards. Watch his thrilling original film in full, where a life-or-death billiards game unfolds in a mysterious bar.
6. Girl Band Anime
Aired 28 July 2024 • 28 min
This time, we take a look at the booming genre of girl band anime. Learn the origins of BanG Dream!, where voice actors rock out in real live bands, and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at BOCCHI THE ROCK!, renowned for its authentic guitar rock scenes.
7. THE MOBILE POLICE PATLABOR Special
Aired 29 September 2024 • 28 min
In this episode, we spotlight THE MOBILE POLICE PATLABOR, a series that remains immensely popular more than 30 years after its debut. Why does it continue to fascinate to this day? Uncover its secrets and discover the series' creative genius. Plus, we've received exclusive permission to take you behind the scenes of the new series THE MOBILE POLICE PATLABOR EZY and get an in-depth look at the production process.
8. THE ANIME STUDIO: CloverWorks
Aired 27 October 2024 • 28 min
This episode spotlights CloverWorks, the acclaimed animation studio established in 2018, celebrated for its stunning visuals and dramatic storytelling. Join us behind the scenes of their latest film project. Plus, get insights from anime opening experts and discover how they continue to raise the next generation of talented animators.
9. FEATURED ANIMATION ARTIST: Ishida Hiroyasu
Aired 24 November 2024 • 28 min
This episode spotlights Ishida Hiroyasu, a standout animation director recognized early for his talent and known for his exhilarating, fast-paced storytelling in films like Penguin Highway. Join us and enjoy the full version of his feature film directorial debut, Sonny Boy & Dewdrop Girl. The heartwarming story follows the adventures of Hinata, a boy with a vivid imagination, as he tries to express his feelings to his crush, Shigure.
10. BEASTARS Special
Aired 29 December 2024 • 28 min
This episode features BEASTARS, a popular manga that uses a world of anthropomorphic animals to explore modern social issues. Through an exclusive interview with creator Itagaki Paru, learn how BEASTARS came to life and the passion behind it. Plus, take a behind-the-scenes look at the anime's final season and the innovations that enhance its realism.