Aside from Sparks of Tomorrow (see my preview), there are no major original animated premieres until August. Fortunately, the wait isn’t long. Kyoto Animation returns with an original television series, Ricky Gervais makes his animated sitcom debut for the streamer, and one of manga’s most influential classics receives a fresh reimagining.
Sparks of Tomorrow
July 5
Produced by Kyoto Animation and based on Hiro Yūki‘s light novel 20 Seiki Denki Mokuroku, the series unfolds in an alternate version of early 20th century Kyoto where steam technology flourishes instead of electricity. The story follows Kihachi Sakamoto, a young inventor who dreams of ushering in a new age alongside his older brother. After tragedy tears those dreams apart, he crosses paths with Inako Momokawa, the daughter of a sake brewer, and together they rediscover hope through science and innovation.
The project also marks Minoru Ota‘s directorial debut and showcases Kyoto Animation’s painterly backgrounds inspired by Impressionist artwork.
Alley Cats
Aug. 7
Fans of Ricky Gervais‘ dry, self-deprecating humour will likely want to keep an eye on this. Early previews have drawn comparisons to Top Cat, though whether it can match that classic remains to be seen. The first season consists of six episodes, and Netflix has yet to announce whether more are on the way.
Produced by Blink Industries, the series centres on a ragtag group of feral British cats from every walk of life as they search for companionship while commenting on the absurdities of everyday life. Gervais voices one of the leads alongside Tom Basden, Diane Morgan, David Earl, Kerry Godliman, Natalie Cassidy and Tony Way. Rather than relying solely on crude humour, the series mixes social satire, philosophical musings and chaotic feline adventures into bite-sized 15-minute episodes.
The Ribbon Hero
Aug. 8
Taking inspiration from Osamu Tezuka’s Princess Knight, this fairy tale is sure to delight. The heroine disguises herself as a man to claim the opportunities denied to women. Produced by Twin Engine and animated by Outline, the film reimagines the classic for a modern audience while embracing its Shakespearean flavour. She must stop Duke Duralumin from placing his son, Plastic, on the throne, all while proving herself in a world where women are consistently underestimated.
Directed by Yuuki Igarashi, the film features updated character designs by Kei Mochizuki, with additional work by Mai Yoneyama and Issei Arakaki, giving Tezuka’s pioneering heroine a fresh visual identity for a new generation.
After Spending an Animated Summer with Netflix, Here are Two Series on Disney+ to Consider.
Dragon Striker
The Doomies
I
