In September 2020, the top pick for anime releases on Netflix is Beastars. Its unique blend of mature themes, stunning animation, and compelling storytelling makes it a standout choice for both anime fans and newcomers alike. The series offers a fresh, thought-provoking take on society and personal identity, making it a must-watch this month.
What to Look For
When choosing anime series to watch on Netflix, especially for new releases, consider the following criteria:
- Story and Themes: Does the plot engage you? Are the themes mature, relatable, or thought-provoking?
- Animation Quality: Is the animation visually appealing and well-executed?
- Character Development: Are the characters complex and well-developed?
- Genre and Mood: Does the genre match your interests—action, romance, sci-fi, dark fantasy?
- Popularity and Critical Reception: Has the series received positive reviews or gained a strong fan following?
- Availability and Accessibility: Is the series available in your region? Does it have subtitles or dubbing options?
Recommended Anime Series for September 2020
1. Beastars
Strengths: Beastars offers a mature, psychological take on anthropomorphic animals navigating complex social issues. Its animation is sleek, blending 3D and 2D styles seamlessly, creating a visually captivating experience. The story delves into themes of identity, prejudice, and desire, making it intellectually engaging for older audiences.
Trade-offs: The mature themes and sometimes slow pacing might not appeal to viewers looking for lighthearted entertainment. It also contains some explicit scenes, which may not be suitable for younger viewers.
Best suited for: Adults or older teens interested in psychological dramas, social commentary, and high-quality animation.
2. The Rising of the Shield Hero
Strengths: An exciting isekai (parallel world) series that combines action, adventure, and character growth. Its engaging plot and strong world-building make it a compelling watch for fans of fantasy and RPG settings. The protagonist’s journey from outsider to hero is inspiring and well-paced.
Trade-offs: It can sometimes fall into typical isekai tropes, and the protagonist’s initial misfortunes may seem overused. Some viewers also find the character archetypes predictable.
Best suited for: fans of fantasy, action, and anime with a focus on hero’s journey narratives.
3. Dorohedoro
Strengths: Dorohedoro stands out with its gritty, surreal art style and dark humor. The series features a compelling mix of violence, mystery, and bizarre characters, creating a unique anime experience. Its unconventional storytelling and world-building appeal to viewers seeking something different from mainstream anime.
Trade-offs: The chaotic art style and dark themes can be overwhelming or off-putting for some. It’s also quite violent and may not suit everyone’s taste.
Best suited for: viewers who enjoy dark fantasy, experimental animation, and edgy humor.
4. Rent-a-Girlfriend
Strengths: A lighthearted romantic comedy that explores modern dating culture with humor and charm. The characters are relatable, and the series balances comedic moments with genuine emotional insights. It’s perfect for casual viewing and those looking for a fun, slice-of-life anime.
Trade-offs: It might lack depth or originality for viewers seeking more profound stories. The romantic tropes are somewhat predictable, and character development can be superficial.
Best suited for: fans of romance, comedy, and slice-of-life stories who want an entertaining and easy watch.
5. Japan Sinks: 2020
Strengths: This series offers a gripping, emotional portrayal of a family trying to survive a series of catastrophic earthquakes in Japan. Its realistic animation style and intense storytelling evoke strong emotional responses. It raises important themes of climate change, survival, and human resilience.
Trade-offs: The serious tone and intense emotional scenes may be draining for some viewers. It also has a slower pace compared to more action-oriented anime.
Best suited for: viewers interested in drama, disaster stories, and societal issues.
How to Choose
Choosing the right anime series depends largely on your personal preferences, budget, and intended use. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Budget and Accessibility: Most Netflix anime are included with your subscription, but regional restrictions may apply. Check availability in your region before committing.
- Use Case: Are you looking for a quick binge, a series to watch over several weeks, or something to revisit? For quick entertainment, shorter series like Rent-a-Girlfriend work well. For deep engagement, choose longer or more complex titles like Beastars or Japan Sinks.
- Genre and Mood: Match your current mood or preferred genre. Lighthearted rom-coms suit casual evenings, while dark fantasy or psychological thrillers are better for serious viewing sessions.
- Trade-offs: Consider whether you prefer high-quality animation, mature themes, or fast-paced action. Be aware that some series may have mature content or slow pacing, which might not suit all viewers.
Balancing these factors will help you select the anime series that best fits your interests and viewing style.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are these anime series suitable for children?
Most of the recommended series are aimed at teens and adults due to mature themes, violence, or complex storylines. Check individual ratings before sharing with children.
2. Do I need to understand Japanese culture to enjoy these shows?
Not necessarily. While some cultural references enhance the experience, most anime are accessible through subtitles and have universal themes that appeal globally.
3. Can I watch these anime without prior anime knowledge?
Absolutely. These series are designed to be engaging for new viewers, with clear storytelling and character introductions.
4. Are these series available in all regions on Netflix?
Availability varies by region due to licensing. Check your local Netflix library to confirm if a series is accessible in your area.
5. How long does each series typically take to complete?
Most series range from 12 to 24 episodes, with each episode lasting around 24 minutes. This makes them manageable for short or extended viewing sessions.
6. Are there any anime series I should avoid in September 2020?
It’s best to avoid series with poor reviews or low production quality. Always check reviews or ratings before committing your time.
Bottom Line
For September 2020, the best anime release on Netflix is Beastars. Its compelling storytelling, mature themes, and high-quality animation make it a standout choice for a wide audience. However, the ideal series depends on your personal taste—whether you prefer action, romance, dark fantasy, or social commentary. Use your preferences, budget, and viewing goals to select the series that will give you the most satisfying anime experience this month.
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