Is the Anime Finished?#
If you are looking to dive into Ashura (also known as アシュラ or 아수라), you will be pleased to know that the anime production is a self-contained experience. Released on September 29, 2012, Ashura is a dark anime film rather than an ongoing series.
Because it is a feature film adaptation of a manga that ran from 1970 to 1971, you can watch the movie without worrying about waiting for new seasons. Whether the film provides a fully satisfying conclusion on its own or leaves you wanting more is a matter of personal taste, but the production itself is complete. If you find yourself craving more depth after the credits roll, you can explore the original source material by buying the Ashura manga.
What is Ashura About and Who is it For?#
Ashura is described as a “dark anime film” produced by Toei and directed by Satou. It has gained recognition for its intense style, with critics describing it as “combustible.” Its quality and artistic direction were recognized when it won a Media Arts Award.
This film is best suited for viewers who appreciate:
- Experimental and Dark Themes: The film’s designation as a “dark anime” suggests a heavier tone than your average production.
- High-Energy Animation: Its description as “combustible” indicates a visceral visual experience.
- Award-Winning Cinema: Having won the Media Arts Award and being screened at international festivals like Annecy and the NY Asian Film Fest, it appeals to those who view anime as a cinematic art form.
If this sounds like your kind of experience, you can watch the anime on Prime Video.
Recommended Watch Order#
Because Ashura has a simple relationship between its source material and its adaptation, the watch order is straightforward. You can refer to our relationship tree for a visual breakdown of these connections.
The Release Order#
For those who want to experience the story as most modern audiences did, simply start with the 2012 anime film.
The Completionist Order#
For those who want the full experience and wish to see the evolution of the story from its origins, we recommend:
- The Manga (1970-1971): Start here to understand the foundation of the story.
- The Anime Film (2012): Follow up with the film to see Satou’s “combustible” interpretation.
The “Source First” Path#
If you prefer to have the full context of the original written work before seeing the adaptation, follow the manga first, then move to the film. This is the best path for those who do not mind continuing with source material to get the complete picture.
While you’re exploring the world of Ashura, you might also want to pick up some Ashura merchandise to commemorate the experience.
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Ashura • manga • 1970 to 1971
└─(adaptation)→ Asura • anime • 2012-09-29
