Manga artist Akihito Yoshitomi's sci-fi series "Eat-Man" is getting a brand new anime adaptation, "EAT-MAN The Over Order", with production officially confirmed to be underway as of September 10.
This marks the third anime adaptation for "Eat-Man", and the first new anime project in 28 years since 1998. The broadcast date has not yet been announced.
"Eat-Man" is a sci-fi manga by Akihito Yoshitomi, serialized in "Monthly Comic Dengeki Gao!" from 1996 to 2003. The story follows Bolt Crank, a mysterious "adventurer" with the bizarre ability to devour metal and re-forge it into various weapons. He never discusses his past or reveals his true intentions, simply traveling the world accepting commissions. Along his journey, a series of events and inescapable destinies await him.
"Eat-Man" previously received TV anime adaptations in 1997 and 1998. Despite nearly 30 years passing since the manga's initial serialization, its unique and original worldview continues to be beloved by many fans.
Studio Cab will be handling production for this brand new anime. Shunji Oga, who previously worked on "Golgo 13" and "Romance of the Three Kingdoms", is directing. Character design is by Satoshi Hirayama, known for his work on the "Lupin the 3rd" series. Original author Akihito Yoshitomi himself will be in charge of the script and original design concepts.
The released special teaser video offers a first look at the new animation footage currently in production. The video opens with the message, "To all who love the Heisei era—", then shows Bolt Crank picking up a screw from the wilderness and calmly stating, "Time to work."
The scene then transitions to "Eat-Man"'s most iconic "metal-devouring" ability, concluding with the words "Complete" as a massive weapon suddenly materializes.
▼ "EAT-MAN The Over Order" Special Teaser Video
The protagonist, Bolt Crank, will continue to be voiced by Masashi Ebara, who previously voiced Bolt in past anime adaptations. He commented:
"A reunion after 30 years! I never imagined that after three decades, I would meet Bolt Crank again! Inspired by the passionate spirit of original author Akihito Yoshitomi-sensei, I'm truly delighted to challenge my favorite 'Eat-Man' once more and share this joy across time with a new generation of voice actors! From the perspective of an observer, 'Eat-Man' gently watches humanity. What does that gaze want from us? What is it asking of us? Please look forward to it!!"
Original author, and script & original design concept for this anime, Akihito Yoshitomi, commented:
"This is already the third anime adaptation of 'Eat-Man'. This time, I've been involved since the scriptwriting stage, allowing me to write whatever I like, pretty much thinking as I go and writing whatever comes to mind. Unlike manga, anime storytelling is a team effort, so it's been a very valuable learning experience for me. Next, I want to try my hand at storyboarding, so I plan to study up. First, please enjoy the brand new 'EAT-MAN'!!"
"Eat-Man" is truly a classic sci-fi work, and it's incredible that after so many years, it's getting another anime adaptation. The official broadcast date hasn't been announced yet, so fans eagerly awaiting this work will have to wait for further official announcements.