The appeal and evaluation of "Astro Boy: The Beginning": The possibility of a new robot story

"Atom: The Beginning": A new robot story born from an original idea by Osamu Tezuka

"Atom: The Beginning" is a TV anime series based on the manga drawn by Tetsuro Kasahara and based on an original idea by Osamu Tezuka. It was broadcast on NHK General TV from April 15 to July 8, 2017, and although it is a compact series of 12 episodes, it has deep themes and fascinating characters. In this article, we will take a closer look at the appeal and highlights of "Atom: The Beginning," as well as the background to it.

Story Summary

The story is set in Japan in the near future. Dr. Tenma and Dr. Ochanomizu lead the "Dr. Tenma Laboratory," where cutting-edge robot development is taking place. The protagonist, Tenma Shun, is a boy with a genius mind who grew up in the laboratory as the son of Dr. Tenma. He takes on the challenge of developing the "perfect robot," his father's dream, but faces various difficulties and conflicts along the way. Shun's encounters with his friend Rokuro and the mysterious girl Atom also play a major role in the story.

Character Introduction

Tenma Shun

The son of Dr. Tenma, he is a boy with a genius mind. He takes over his father's dream and challenges himself to develop the "perfect robot." He has a calm and rational personality, but can also get emotional at times. His growth and conflicts are at the center of the story.

Rokuro

He is Shun's best friend and has a bright and cheerful personality. He is interested in robot development and conducts research with Shun. His presence is a great support for Shun.

atom

A mysterious girl who suddenly appears before Shun and his friends. Her true identity and purpose become clear as the story progresses. Atom's presence causes Shun to greatly change his way of thinking about robot development.

Highlights of the anime

A profound theme based on Osamu Tezuka's original idea

"Astro Boy: The Beginning" is based on an original story by Osamu Tezuka, but its themes are still relevant to modern society. It explores a variety of themes, including the relationship between robots and humans, the progress and ethics of science and technology, and the state of the human mind. These themes provide viewers with deep emotions and opportunities to think.

Beautiful visuals and detailed drawings

The animation is produced by three studios: OLM, Production IG, and SIGNAL.MD. The technical capabilities and beautiful visuals of these studios enhance the appeal of "Atom: The Beginning." The robot designs and movements in particular are characterized by their detailed and realistic drawings. Additionally, the backgrounds, which depict a near-future worldview, are also beautiful, making for a visual treat galore.

Attractive characters and their development

The characters, including the main character Shun Tenma, are all unique and charming. Their growth and struggles are depicted, allowing viewers to empathize deeply with the story. Another highlight is the relationships between the characters, such as the friendship between Shun and Rokuro, and the change in Shun after meeting Atom.

Production background and staff

Original story and concept

The original idea for "Atom: The Beginning" was created by Tezuka Osamu. Tezuka Osamu is a master of Japanese manga, and his work is loved all over the world. The original manga is by Kasahara Tetsuro, and it depicts a new story based on Tezuka Osamu's original idea. Kasahara Tetsuro is a writer who is knowledgeable about science, technology, and robots, and his realistic depictions that make use of his knowledge are characteristic of the work.

Director and production studio

The director is Tatsuo Sato. Tatsuo Sato is a highly experienced director who has worked on numerous productions in the anime industry, and his directing skills enhance the appeal of "Atom: The Beginning." Animation production is handled jointly by three studios: OLM, Production IG, and SIGNAL.MD. Each of these studios has different techniques and styles, which combine to produce high-quality animation.

Broadcast information and how to watch

Broadcast period and station

"Atom: The Beginning" was broadcast on NHK General TV from April 15 to July 8, 2017. It is a compact series of 12 episodes, each lasting 25 minutes. NHK General TV is Japan's public broadcasting station and can be viewed nationwide.

Streaming service

Currently, "Atom: The Beginning" can be viewed on various distribution services. It is distributed on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, d Anime Store, etc., so you can watch it at your own convenience. In addition, DVD and Blu-ray are also available, and you can purchase it as a permanent edition.

Evaluation and Impressions

Viewer ratings

"Atom: The Beginning" has been highly praised by viewers, especially for its profound themes based on Tezuka Osamu's original ideas, beautiful visuals, and appealing characters. Viewers with an interest in science, technology, and robots have also praised the realistic depictions and content packed with knowledge. On the other hand, there have been some criticisms that the show was only broadcast for a short period of 12 episodes, and that the story development was a bit rushed, but overall it has been a very satisfying work.

Author's thoughts

I myself watched "Atom: The Beginning" and was captivated by its charm. In particular, the deep themes based on Tezuka Osamu's original ideas are relevant to modern society and made me think deeply. The beautiful visuals and detailed drawings were also stunning, and the show was full of visual enjoyment. The story also depicts the characters' growth and conflicts, making it easy to empathize with. Although it was only broadcast for a short period of 12 episodes, it was packed with dense content and I felt it was a very satisfying work.

Related works and recommendations

Related Titles

"Astro Boy: The Beginning" is based on the original idea of ​​Osamu Tezuka, but there are many related works. In particular, Osamu Tezuka's masterpiece "Astro Boy" is deeply connected to the original idea of ​​"Astro Boy: The Beginning". Many of Kasahara Tetsuro's other works also have themes of science and technology and robots, so if you are interested, be sure to check them out.

Recommended Works

If you enjoyed "Atom: The Beginning," we also recommend the following works:

"PSYCHO-PASS"

This sci-fi anime is set in the near future in Japan and depicts issues of science, technology and ethics. It features beautiful visuals and deep themes, and is recommended for fans of "Astro Boy: The Beginning."

Ghost in the Shell

This cyberpunk-themed science fiction anime depicts the relationship between robots and humans. It features detailed drawings and deep themes, and is recommended for fans of "Astro Boy: The Beginning."

"STEINS;GATE"

This sci-fi anime with the theme of time travel depicts issues of science, technology and ethics. It features fascinating characters and a detailed storyline, and is recommended for fans of "Atom: The Beginning."

summary

"Atom: The Beginning" is a work that features deep themes based on the original idea of ​​Tezuka Osamu, beautiful visuals, and attractive characters. The story of robot development set in near-future Japan will give viewers deep emotions and an opportunity to think. Although it is a compact series of 12 episodes, it is packed with dense content and is a highly satisfying work. Please watch it and experience its charm for yourself.