JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run Anime – A Promising Reboot

The anime adaptation of ‘Steel Ball Run’, widely considered by many fans to be the high point of Hirohiko Araki’s sprawling saga, has arrived – and it’s a welcome return to form after the somewhat bumpy ride of ‘Stone Ocean’. The first episode, a supersized 47-minute installment, is now streaming on Netflix, and it’s a thrilling declaration of intent.

A Fresh Start in a Familiar Universe

‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’ is a legendary franchise that has unfolded over decades, following different members of the Joestar family and their ongoing legacy. Following the conclusion of ‘Stone Ocean’, ‘Steel Ball Run’ marks a soft reboot of the universe, presenting a novel beginning for the story. This makes it an ideal entry point for newcomers, whereas still offering plenty of Easter eggs and nods for longtime fans who have followed the series since ‘Phantom Blood’ – a lost film adaptation of which, as Espinof reports, could have drastically altered the anime’s trajectory.

The story kicks off in 1890 in San Diego, with the imminent start of the Steel Ball Run, a grueling horse race stretching across the United States. The prize? A staggering $50 million. This isn’t just a race for glory; it’s a test of pioneering spirit, and the stakes are incredibly high.

Johnny Joestar and the Mystery of Gyro Zeppeli

At the heart of the narrative is Johnny Joestar, a former jockey sidelined by a crippling injury that confines him to a wheelchair. His desire to compete is reignited by a chance encounter with Gyro Zeppeli, a mysterious figure possessing a unique ability linked to steel balls. Zeppeli temporarily restores Johnny’s ability to walk, and together, they embark on the race, driven by Johnny’s obsession to uncover the truth behind Gyro’s powers.

The opening episode immediately grabs your attention with its impactful introduction to the protagonists. David Production has expertly captured the western aesthetic, immersing viewers in the era through its soundtrack, scenery, and even shot composition. It’s a clear signal that This represents a genre piece, and it leans into that identity wholeheartedly.

Visual Improvements and a Careful Balance

Concerns lingered after the limitations of ‘Stone Ocean’, but ‘Steel Ball Run’ has largely alleviated those fears with its improved visual quality. While the animation still relies on static shots with speed lines, there’s a noticeable increase in attention to detail in the backgrounds and character designs, resulting in a more polished look. The studio strikes a excellent balance between static moments and more dynamic sequences, particularly during the race’s climactic moments.

The horses themselves are a standout achievement. They’re far more than just vehicles; they’re integral to the race and the story. Combining traditional animation with well-integrated CGI, ‘Steel Ball Run’ delivers truly impressive sequences, suggesting that this could be the best season of ‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’ yet. As Espinof notes, the creators themselves recognize the challenge of bringing this element to life.

A Unique Entry Point, But Still ‘JoJo’

While ‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’ remains a unique and often unconventional anime, ‘Steel Ball Run’ offers a relatively accessible starting point. The new timeline and characters allow viewers to jump in without needing extensive prior knowledge. However, the series’ signature eccentricities – its dramatic poses, over-the-top characters, and often parodic elements – are still very much present.

For those hesitant to dive into the entire franchise, this first episode, now available on Netflix with both Japanese and Spanish dubs, is the perfect opportunity to test the waters. The pacing is brisk, the tension is palpable, and the intrigue surrounding Gyro’s powers is immediately captivating.

The production team appears to have learned from past mistakes. The irregular release schedule that plagued ‘Stone Ocean’ – which, as Espinof pointed out, contributed to a loss of momentum – seems to be a thing of the past. ‘Steel Ball Run’ feels like a confident and compelling continuation of the ‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’ legacy.

What’s next? The anime is releasing episodes weekly on Netflix, allowing fans to savor the unfolding story and discuss each development. This approach, a deliberate departure from binge-watching, aims to replicate the original serialized experience of the manga.