In the vibrant world of anime, few studios carry the prestige of MAPPA, known for blockbusters like Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man. Their 2025 original series, Zenshu, offers a fresh, meta twist on the isekai genre, blending fantasy with the struggles of anime production. Premiering on January 5, 2025, and streaming on Crunchyroll, Zenshu has sparked buzz for its unique premise and heartfelt storytelling. Here’s everything you need to know about this captivating series.
What Is Zenshu About?
Zenshu (Japanese: 全修, meaning “redo everything”) follows Natsuko Hirose, a prodigious animator who rises to fame after her debut anime becomes a massive hit, reminiscent of Sailor Moon’s cultural impact. Tasked with directing a romantic comedy about first love, Natsuko faces a creative block—she’s never experienced love herself. Overworked and burnt out, she collapses after eating expired clams and wakes up in the world of her favorite childhood anime, A Tale of Perishing, a tragic fantasy story.
In this isekai adventure, Natsuko discovers her animator skills are now magical powers. Her pegboard transforms into a magic desk, allowing her to draw creations that come to life, though with limitations: her powers only work in dire situations, she can’t draw the same thing twice, and she passes out for three days after each use. As she navigates this perilous world, Natsuko aims to rewrite the tragic fates of its characters, all while rediscovering her passion for art and confronting her personal struggles.
A Fresh Spin on Isekai
Unlike typical isekai stories where protagonists dominate with prior knowledge, Zenshu takes a more grounded approach. Natsuko’s familiarity with A Tale of Perishing gives her an edge, but her introverted nature and creative burnout make her journey relatable. The series blends magical girl elements—Natsuko’s desk transformation evokes Sailor Moon—with a satirical nod to anime tropes, poking fun at clichés like the conveniently absent warning character. This self-aware storytelling, paired with themes of artistic renewal, sets Zenshu apart in a crowded genre.
MAPPA’s Signature Touch
Produced by MAPPA, Zenshu boasts a talented team. Directed by Mitsue Yamazaki (Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-kun), with scripts by Kimiko Ueno (Delicious in Dungeon), the series delivers vibrant visuals and fluid animation, especially in moments when Natsuko’s creations come to life. Original character designs by Yoshiteru Tsujino, adapted by Kayoko Ishikawa, bring a distinct charm, while Yukari Hashimoto’s music enhances the emotional depth. The opening theme, “Zen” by BAND-MAID, and ending theme, “Tada, Kimi no Mama de” by Sou, amplify the show’s energy.
Why Zenshu Stands Out
Zenshu is more than a fantasy adventure—it’s a love letter to anime creators and fans. The series explores the grueling realities of the animation industry, reflecting MAPPA’s own controversial history with overwork. Natsuko’s burnout and isolation resonate with artists, while her journey to reconnect with her passion speaks to anyone chasing a dream. The meta narrative—making an anime about making anime—adds a layer of authenticity, drawing parallels to works like Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken.
The show also tackles emotional depth, addressing childhood wounds and the power of art to heal. Natsuko’s growth from a detached workaholic to someone who forms genuine connections with the characters she loves is both moving and inspiring. With dynamic action, slow-burn romance, and a focus on creative struggle, Zenshu appeals to both anime enthusiasts and newcomers.
Reception and Controversy
Zenshu has garnered mixed reactions. Fans praise its heartfelt narrative and unique premise, with some calling it a standout of the Winter 2025 season. However, critics note that the first episode feels generic, with pacing issues and action scenes that don’t match MAPPA’s usual flair. The irony of MAPPA producing a story about an overworked animator hasn’t gone unnoticed, given the studio’s history of crunch culture. Some see Zenshu as a self-aware commentary, while others find it tone-deaf. Despite this, Natsuko’s compelling character arc keeps viewers hooked.
Where to Watch Zenshu
Zenshu aired from January 5 to March 23, 2025, on TV Tokyo and is available on Crunchyroll with subtitles and dubs in multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish. New episodes dropped every Sunday, with a total of 12 episodes in the first season. No second season has been confirmed, but the cliffhanger ending has fans hopeful for more.
Should You Watch Zenshu?
If you love anime that blend fantasy with real-world struggles, Zenshu is a must-watch. Its meta take on anime creation, combined with MAPPA’s stunning visuals and a relatable protagonist, makes it a unique addition to the isekai genre. While it may not hit the highs of Jujutsu Kaisen, its emotional core and creative commentary make it a gem for fans who appreciate storytelling with heart. Catch it on Crunchyroll and dive into Natsuko’s journey to redraw her world—literally and figuratively.
