Lazarus Series Debuts Amidst Drug Crisis in 2052

The new anime series 'Lazarus,' created by Shinichirō Watanabe, pays homage to his classic 'Cowboy Bebop' while introducing a dystopian narrative set in 2055. The story revolves around a miracle drug, Hapna, which is initially celebrated for eradicating pain but is revealed to have a fatal side effect, leading to a global crisis where users face death in 30 days unless they find its creator, Dr. Skinner, who holds the antidote. The series features high-quality animation and dynamic fight choreography, overseen by 'John Wick' director Chad Stahelski, although early reviews suggest mixed results in character development and dialogue. Critics note that while 'Lazarus' has visually compelling moments, it heavily borrows from its predecessor's style, sometimes at the expense of establishing its own identity. The show's ensemble includes Axel Gilberto, a parkour expert and escape artist, as he joins a team to confront this apocalyptic dilemma. Despite the high expectations, the series has sparked intrigue, driven by its bold premise and the signature creative touch of Watanabe.