The formative work of Tatsuki Fujimoto, the creative force behind the global hit Chainsaw Man, is getting a new life. An exclusive anime anthology series titled “Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26” has been announced for a global release on Prime Video on November 7, 2025, is a follow-up to the incredible success of his recent anime adaptation, Look Back. The series will adapt eight of the short stories Fujimoto wrote between the ages of 17 and 26, showcasing the raw talent that would later make him a manga icon.
A Glimpse into the Mind of a Master
Before the wild success of Chainsaw Man and Fire Punch, Fujimoto honed his skills with a series of distinct one-shots. This new anthology will bring to life a wide range of his early works, offering fans a unique look into his creative evolution. The series will explore diverse genres, from a post apocalyptic bond in “A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin’ in the Schoolyard” to a sci fi romantic comedy in “Love is Blind.” It also includes darker, more twisted tales like the assassin story “Shikaku” and the fantastical romance of “Mermaid Rhapsody.”
A Major Collaborative Project
Bringing these stories to life is a massive undertaking, with the project enlisting seven acclaimed directors and six leading animation studios, including P.A.WORKS (Skip and Loafer) and ZEXCS (Diabolik Lovers). This collaborative approach ensures that each story will have its own unique visual style, paying a fitting tribute to the varied and imaginative nature of Fujimoto’s original work. The creator himself expressed a mix of anxiety and excitement, stating he believes “through the work of talented directors, they have become proper and well-crafted pieces.”
This highly anticipated anthology offers an exceptional opportunity for both longtime fans and newcomers to see the creative foundation of a modern manga master.
The Acclaim of “Look Back” and Its Influence
While Fujimoto is best known for the action-packed chaos of Chainsaw Man, his one-shot film Look Back demonstrated a different side of his genius. The film adaptation, which tells a moving story of two young manga artists, was a resounding critical success. It was hailed as a new anime classic, praised for its poignant and humanistic storytelling. The film’s success proved that Fujimoto’s more grounded, character-driven works hold immense appeal for audiences and are perfectly suited for a high-quality animated adaptation.
