After a three-year delay, Junji Ito’s manga series “Uzumaki” is debuting as an animation later this month. Ito has written many books, but readers might know him as the author of “Tomie,” “Gyo” or “Remina.” With the book being rated five stars by almost 40,000 people, many look forward to seeing main characters Kirie and Shuichi come to life off the page. In “Uzumaki,” Ito can make something as simple as a pattern into a terrifying horror phenomenon.
The story follows a couple, Shuichi and Kirie, as they maneuver their way around a world that is spiraling out of control. Ito uses intricate details and eerie scenes to keep readers engaged and on the edge of their seats.
Ito’s tales have previously been adapted into the animated series in “Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of The Macabre” and “Junji Ito Collection.” Supporters of Ito are excited to see the suspense and appeal of the story on screen, especially since it's the only Junji Ito adaptation that sticks to the black-and-white style of the book. The series is said to have only four episodes, leading many to believe that the adaptation of the 600-plus-page manga will have pacing issues.
Adult Swim and Production I.G. are working together to produce the anime. Adult Swim is a network popular for many series such as “Rick and Morty,” “American Dad,” and “Family Guy.” Adult Swim's Toonami, a television programming block that shows only animated films and aired “Dragon Ball Z,” “One Piece” and “Sailor Moon,” will also be airing the show, and Studio Drive, a studio that was responsible for making many animated adaptations of manga, is animating “Uzumaki.”
The animation has a notable cast of voice actors. Robbie Daymond, who voiced Megumi Fushiguru in the English dub of “Jujitsu Kaisen,” is voicing Shuichi Saito in “Uzumaki.” Christina Vee and Maniya Ise, who voiced Killua in “Hunter x Hunter,” are the voice actresses for Azami Kurotani in “Uzumaki.” Shuichi Saito's father is voiced by Aaron Laplante, who voiced Dorian in “Baki.”
Horror fans, anime fans and manga readers may be interested in watching this series. Fans can find the official teaser for the anime on Adult Swim’s YouTube channel. The anime is set to debut Sept. 28 on Adult Swim and Sept. 29 on MAX.