Viz Media Releases Highly Anticipated Anime Series “Uzumaki” on EST Platforms
Viz Media, a leading distributor of anime and manga, has announced the release of the highly anticipated miniseries adaptation “Uzumaki: Animated TV Series” on EST (electric sell-through) platforms today. The four-episode series, originally titled “Uzumaki” on Cartoon Network’s Toonami, is based on Junji Ito’s popular manga of the same name.
Produced by Adult Swim and Production I.G USA, the U.S. branch of renowned Japanese anime studio Production I.G, “Uzumaki” is a body horror series that arrives just in time for Halloween. The series is animated in black-and-white 2D drawings, staying true to the visual style of the manga. To enhance the eerie atmosphere, the show features an otherworldly score composed by Colin Stetson, known for his work on the film “Hereditary.”
Set in the fictional town of Kurouzu-cho, “Uzumaki” follows the story of a young girl named Kirie as she navigates a world where everything is consumed by spirals. From whirlwinds to the residents themselves, the town is plagued by a mysterious curse that distorts reality and twists the bodies of its inhabitants.
Originally published in the manga magazine “Big Comic Spirits” in 1998-99, Junji Ito’s “Uzumaki” quickly gained critical acclaim and was even nominated for an Eisner Award in 2003. The manga has since been adapted into video games and a live-action film. The anime adaptation, which aired on Adult Swim’s Toonami block, concluded with its final episode on October 25th.
JP Villanueva, VIZ Media’s Senior Director of Digital Distribution, expressed excitement about bringing “Uzumaki” to audiences in a way that stays true to the manga’s visual style and intensity. By releasing the series on digital storefronts, fans can enjoy the gripping horror story at their convenience.
Viz Media, based in San Francisco, is known for its efforts in popularizing Japanese manga and anime worldwide. The company distributes a wide range of franchises, including “Bleach,” “Naruto,” “Sailor Moon,” “Death Note,” and “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure,” as well as various manga titles and the iconic “Shonen Jump” magazine.
“Uzumaki: Animated TV Series” is now available for purchase on various digital platforms, including Apple TV, Prime Video, Google Play, Fandango at Home, and the Microsoft Store. Fans can immerse themselves in the chilling world of “Uzumaki” and experience the horror wherever they choose.