The mention of Eric Kripke’s Supernatural and the term ‘cult classic’ in the same sentence wouldn’t surprise anyone, as that’s simply how one can describe the show’s massive popularity and dedicated fanbase. Fans know every detail of the 15-seasons-long show, from the characters’ special moments to their craziest adventures against the supernatural.However, even such fans might not have heard of Supernatural: The Animation. Released for the first time in 2011, Supernatural: The Animation is an anime series based on the beloved 2006 show.

Sam Winchester in Supernatural: The Animation | Credits: Studio Madhouse

The anime was animated and produced by the highly regarded Studio Madhouse, which makes its obscurity all the more bizarre. Supernatural anime has too many great things to offer, which makes it deserving of more attention from fans. 

An introduction to Supernatural: The Animation and its greatness 

Supernatural: The Animation is the story of Sam and Dean Winchester, two brothers who set out on a path to find their dad. On this quest, their paths entwine with many supernatural creatures. Despite its somewhat dark and serious elements, the anime is interesting and strikes a great balance between the serious parts and the entertaining ones.

Jared Padalecki played Sam Winchester throughout the series while Jensen Ackles only played Dean in the final episodes | Credits: Studio Madhouse

The anime is based on the same story as the original TV series, with a few tweaks here and there. Out of the 15 seasons, the anime only adapts the first two seasons. Being a Studio Madhouse production is definitely a great highlight for the show. In recent times, Madhouse has given us shows like Freieren: Beyond Journey’s End, Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, and Overlord.

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As for Supernatural anime, the actors from the TV show reprising their roles is something that appeals to pre-existing fans. Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles play Sam and Dean in the anime, although Ackles appears only near the end. The anime is a must-watch for fans of the TV series, and it can be a fun watch for casual watchers too.

All that Supernatural anime does better and worse than the TV series 

Having Padalecki and Ackles as a part of the anime was definitely a good decision to intrigue older fans of the series. The anime does take some creative liberties, but sticks to the source material as closely as possible. Beyond the characters and the story, the somewhat eerie creatures are the heart and soul of the show due to the element of thrill. 

The anime was much gory and graphic compared to the TV show | Credits: Studio Madhouse

The anime does an excellent job in translating that thrill into a new format. Although there are some rough spots where the dialogues don’t feel natural. Compared to the TV series, the anime might feel inferior, but individually it’s a thoroughly enjoyable experience. 

Supernatural: The Animation is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, and the TV series is available on Apple TV. 
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire