If You Think '90s Anime Is Superior, a New Anime Just Dropped That Perfectly Captures the Era

Anime from the '90s is loved for a variety of reasons. Some are tied to the nostalgia factor, or simply enjoy the stories of the decade, while others are in it for the unbeatable aesthetic and vibes. Shows like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Trigun, and Serial Experiments Lain continue to be held in high regard, and their reputations only further grow as time passes. Another one of those classics is Cowboy Bebop, and fans will be happy to know its creator has returned with an all-new series, Lazarus.

Shinichiro Watanabe is a legend of the industry, revered for works like Cowboy Bebop and the often underrated Samurai Champloo. And as the spring 2025 anime season gets underway, countless fans are looking forward to what the creator will offer next. Animated by the illustrious Studio MAPPA and airing on Adult Swim in the United States, many believe Lazarus will be this season's must-watch show, and the first episode proves that Watanabe will be bringing all the style and action his work is known for.

Lazarus Captures the Classic '90s Style

Shinichiro Watanabe's Latest Anime Is Brimming With Style

Lazarus episode #1, titled, "Goodbye Cruel World", premiered on April 6, 2025, and immediately garnered praise from the anime community for its highly stylized visuals, fast-paced action and storytelling, and intriguing setting. The series' action sequences are designed by Chad Stahelski, best known for directing the John Wick franchise. Combined with Watanabe's trademark visuals and music reminiscent of that featured in Cowboy Bebop, the anime's first episode is every '90s lovers' dream.

Following escaped convict Axel Gilberto, the series' protagonist reacts somewhat uncaringly when told about a conspiracy involving the inevitable deaths of thousands, and uses his timely meeting in prison to break free. When later caught, he awakes in a room only to be told, "Welcome to Lazarus."

Cowboy Bebop Creator Admits His New Show is "Connected" to the Iconic Anime

Shinichiro Watanabe is a legend among anime directors, and in a recent interview, he revealed his new series, Lazarus, connects with Cowboy Bebop.

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It isn't just the anime community raving about Lazarus' first episode, either. Hideo Kojima posted about the series on X, claiming that it made him nostalgic for a time when he would watch late-night anime in real time, and that the series has inspired him to watch more anime on TV rather than streaming. For any fan looking for a fresh, yet nostalgic viewing expeirence, Lazarus may have exactly what they're looking for.

Lazarus Has a Shot at Anime of the Season

The Spring 2025 Anime Season Is Stacked

Though the spring anime season has only just begun, Lazarus has made quite a strong first impression. If it can manage to keep its momentum over the coming months, Shinichiro Watanabe's latest title has a good chance at stealing the season spotlight. However, it won't be without competition. With the return of shows like One Piece and Fire Force, and the continuation of The Apothecary Diaries, fans' focus is sure to be split.

Nevertheless, Lazarus has made about as good a bid as it could make to occupy viewers' time. With big names behind it and a weekly slot on TV in the U.S., the series is sure to make quite a bit of noise. Countless anime fans have missed the vibe and aesthetic of their favorite '90s shows, and Lazarus may just be the project they're looking for.