Keanu Reeves, famous for his leading roles in action films, is no stranger to Hollywood fans. Reeves’s work in the John Wick and Matrix trilogy was hailed as both brilliant and captivating by the community. Naturally, fans were left dumbfounded by the Hollywood star’s recent revelation and upcoming project.
Surprisingly, many are still oblivious that Reeves has stepped into the world of comics with BRZRKR. While the movie adaptation and subsequent Netflix animated series are still under work, the BRZRKR fandom received another update from writer Mattson Tomlin during San Diego Comic-Con 2024.
Catching everyone by surprise, the production team has confirmed the rumors about the anime adaptation to be true. Indeed, the sudden announcement of BRZRKR‘s anime adaptation production created an immense buzz in the community. While most of Reeves’ fans are expressing their excitement online, not everyone is thrilled by the news, especially the Berserk fandom.
Keanu Reeves’s Comic Book, BRZRKR, receives Anime Adaptation
Back in 2021, Netflix first confirmed the production of BRZRKR as a movie adaptation, with Keanu expected to star in the live-action rendition. In the following year, it became known that Production I.G would be producing the anime adaptation, consisting of two seasons.
Production I.G has created waves with Kauju No.8 adaptation and fans are eagerly anticipating to hear more fascinating news from the studio. While many are thrilled by BRZRKR‘s adaptation, not everyone shares the same emotion. Notably, the classic manga ‘Berserk‘ long-time followers have been patiently waiting to hear the franchise’s comeback for over a decade.
Indeed, witnessing such buzz for Keanu Reeves‘ comic book online has raised many concerns among the Berserk community. Many fans believe that Japanese animation studios aren’t much interested in the franchise’s potential future.
"BRZRKR" Anime Adaptation will begin Production this Fall 2024 according to producer Mattson Tomlin!
— Manga Mogura RE (Manga & Anime News) (@MangaMoguraRE) July 27, 2024
Animation Studio: Production I.G
Based on the BOOM! Studios Action Comic Series Written By Keanu Reeves and Matt Kindt and Drawn by Ron Garney about an immortal warrior known as… pic.twitter.com/acwWeTnslY
Naturally, the Berserk fandom wasn’t happy with all the attention a new series received online. Berserk‘s mangaka, Kentaro Miura, captivated many fans through his fascinating narrative and beautiful artwork. Hence, it only resulted in fans losing their temper and sharing all their frustration.
japanese will adapt everything but a decent modern adaptation of Berserk
— Xeno (@Xenocrisi) July 27, 2024
Cant just give us Berserk😔
— Yunica (@TheRealYunica) July 27, 2024
The sudden announcement of Keanu’s project’s anime adaptation starting this fall took the internet by surprise. Needless to say, many Berserk fans felt overshadowed and frustrated, leaving concerns about their cherished manga’s future.
Berserk is unadaptable… let's just accept that
— eyeMe (@drojishi) July 28, 2024
Decades have passed, and still no news on a faithful "Berserk" adaptation. Meanwhile, a new comic like "BRZRKR" gets the green light for both live-action and anime. It's been over 30 years since "Berserk" began, and I just want to see Guts animated in all his glory!
— Ritesh Jakta (@rj_mars_03) July 28, 2024
The anime’s last episode was aired back in April 1, 1998. Over the years, the franchise has gained a vast fanbase and the manga readers are losing all hope of witnessing their favorite manga scenes brought to life through anime. Indeed, it’s depressing that despite such a loyal fanbase, Berserk‘s anime future is unpredictable.
What to expect from the BRZRKR series?
Interestingly, both Berserk and BRZRKR resemble the intense dark theme. Keanu’s comic features the story of “B,” an immortal warrior on a relentless quest for vengeance and peaceful death. The protagonist shares a lot of similarities with Guts from Berserk, especially their traumatic pasts.
Moreover, after witnessing the violent action scenes and emotional moments in the comic, many anime fans are eagerly anticipating this intense character brought to life on screen. Not to forget, the BRZRKR‘s protagonist design is highly influenced by Keanu Reeves.
Owing to Keanu Reeves’ captivating thriller action scenes, fans are ecstatic with the addition of the Hollywood star into the anime universe. Reeves’ deep involvement in both creating and performing in the adaptation proves his dedication and commitment to the comic book.
