Appeal and evaluation of "Cat's Eye 2nd Season": The success of the sequel and new developments

Appeal and evaluation of "Cat's Eye 2nd Season": The success of the sequel and new developments

Cat's Eye 2nd Season: Reevaluating a classic '80s anime

For anime fans of the 1980s, "Cat's Eye" is one of the unforgettable works. In particular, the second season of the series has captivated many viewers by drawing out new developments and deepening the characters while maximizing the appeal of the original work. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the appeal and background of "Cat's Eye 2nd Season" and reevaluate it from a modern perspective.

Overview

"Cat's Eye 2nd Season" is a TV anime series that aired on Nippon Television from October 8, 1984 to July 8, 1985. It consists of 37 episodes, each 30 minutes long, and is based on the manga of the same name, "Cat's Eye" by Hojo Tsukasa (serialized in Shueisha's "Weekly Shonen Jump" magazine). It was produced by Tokyo Movie Shinsha, and the copyright belongs to Hojo Tsukasa/Core Mix, TMS 1983.

story

The three sisters who run the cafe Cat's Eye are Tear, Hitomi, and Ai. Their true identities are the phantom thief "Cat's Eye" that is making waves in the world! The Cats continue to steal the works left behind by their father, Michael Heinz, a genius painter who has disappeared, in search of clues. They face off against evil enemies such as fake Cats and kidnappers who appear one after another, and their fun negotiations with detective Toshio heat up even more!

cast

Hitomi Kisugi: Keiko Toda / Rui Kisugi: Yoshiko Fujita / Ai Kisugi: Chinatsu Sakamoto / Toshio Utsumi: Yoshito Yasuhara / Section chief: Kenji Utsumi / Mitsuko Asatani: Yoshiko Sakakibara and others

Main Staff

Producers: Norio Hatsukawa, Shunzo Kato / Music: Kazuo Otani / Theme song: Takeru Satoh, Gouji Tsuno / Animation director: Satoshi Hirayama / Art director: Toshiharu Mizutani / Director of photography: Hiroto Takahashi / Sound director: Satoshi Kato / Music director: Seiji Suzuki / Scenario director: Junichi Iioka / Production manager: Motoyoshi Tokunaga / Chief director: Kenji Kodama

Theme songs and music

[OP] Song: Dillinger / Singer: Tono Mariko / Lyrics: Miura Tomoko / Composer: Sato Takeru / Arrangement: Shinkawa Hiroshi [ED] Song: HOT STUFF / Singer: Shelley Savage / Lyrics: Brian Ritchie / Composer: Tsuno Gouji / Arrangement: Shinkawa Hiroshi

Appeal and evaluation of the work

The greatest appeal of "Cat's Eye 2nd Season" is the characters and growth of the three sisters. Although each of the three, Rui, Hitomi, and Ai, has different personalities, they are shown working together for a common goal. In particular, Rui's leadership, Hitomi's wisdom, and Ai's drive add excitement to the story and draw viewers in. Their exploits are not just about being thieves, but also make the series enjoyable as a story of family love, friendship, and growth.

Another point not to be missed is the negotiations between him and detective Toshio Utsumi. While Toshio is pursuing Cat's Eye, he also has feelings for Hitomi, and this conflict adds depth to the story. Toshio's character is not just an antagonist, but is portrayed as a very human being, which resonates with viewers. Furthermore, the confrontations with various evil foes such as fake Cats and kidnappers are also full of thrills, making each episode a fun one to look forward to.

The music has also been highly praised. The opening theme "Dillinger" features Mariko Tono's powerful singing voice, which is impressive and heightens the tension of the story. The ending theme "HOT STUFF" features Shelley Savage's pleasant pop singing voice, which leaves a lasting impression after watching the show. Kazuo Otani's music is also an important element in livening up the atmosphere of the story.

Background and influences

"Cat's Eye" was originally serialized in "Weekly Shonen Jump" and has gained support from a wide range of people. When it was made into an anime, it kept the charm of the original while adding expressions unique to anime, attracting viewers. In particular, the second season responded to viewers' expectations by further developing the popular characters from the first season and adding new story developments.

This work was one of the driving forces behind the anime boom of the 1980s, and its influence can be seen in later anime. It influenced many works, including stories about phantom thieves, heroines, and police battles. The characters of the three sisters can also be said to have been important pioneers in depicting the exploits of female characters.

Reassessment from a modern perspective

Even from a modern perspective, "Cat's Eye 2nd Season" has not lost its charm. In particular, the story of the female characters' activities, family love, and friendship will resonate with modern viewers. In addition, the fact that you can enjoy the music and fashion of the 1980s will appeal to viewers who want a retro atmosphere.

Furthermore, the fact that it is now available on streaming services, DVD, and Blu-ray means that more people can enjoy this work. It is a work that I would recommend not only to anime fans, but also to anyone interested in 80s culture.

Recommended points

The reasons why we recommend "Cat's Eye 2nd Season" are as follows:

  • Character appeal : The individuality and growth of the three sisters, Rui, Hitomi, and Ai, are depicted, drawing viewers in.
  • Thrilling story : The confrontations with fake Cats and kidnappers, and the negotiations with the detectives are full of thrills, making you look forward to the developments in each episode.
  • Musical appeal : The opening and ending theme songs and Kazuo Otani's music add excitement to the story.
  • 80's culture : You can enjoy the atmosphere of the 80's, including music and fashion.
  • Influence : A work that influenced later anime and has great historical value.

Conclusion

"Cat's Eye 2nd Season" is a nostalgic work for 80's anime fans, and a work that has a fresh appeal for modern viewers. It is filled with various elements such as the exploits of the three sisters, a thrilling story, the charm of music, the culture of the 80's, and its influence. Please watch it once and rediscover its charm.

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