Contents
Introduction
"ZOM 100: Bucket List of the Dead" offers a refreshing take on the zombie-themed anime genre, and it has garnered a positive reception among anime enthusiasts. Produced by BUG Films, this summer anime adaptation of Haro Aso and Kotaro Takata's manga breathes new life into the overused zombie apocalypse concept.
The story of "ZOM 100: Bucket List of the Dead" follows the adventures of Akira Tendou, an ordinary Japanese salaryman who finds himself in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. While many zombie stories focus on the gloomy, never-ending struggle for survival in a post-apocalyptic world, this anime takes a sharp turn into the realm of comedy, a world full of vibrant colors, and a dash of existentialism.
From The Creator of Alice in Borderland
Like many successful anime series, "ZOM 100: Bucket List of the Dead" is adapted from a popular manga originally known as "Zom 100: Zombie ni Naru made ni Shitai 100 no Koto." This manga quickly gained traction among readers due to its colorful and offbeat take on life during a zombie outbreak. Despite its horror thriller premise, the storytelling is marked by its sense of fun and adventure. The anime adaptation is slated for 12 episodes, with a successful live-action movie adaptation that was released during the anime’s run.
Fans of Haro Aso's work may recognize him as the creator of the globally acclaimed series "Alice in Borderland." This connection between the two works has generated significant anticipation among fans of Aso's storytelling. "Alice in Borderland" enjoyed immense popularity and recognition, especially after its successful live-action adaptation.
Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead | Official Trailer | Netflix
Official Anime Trailer | Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead | COMING JULY 2023 | VIZ
"ZOM 100" continues to build on Aso's reputation as a master storyteller. The striking contrast between the two works highlights his versatility in crafting narratives that resonate with audiences across various genres.
The Anti-Mainstream Zombie-Themed Anime
If you're accustomed to zombie-themed movies or anime that delve into dark and somber scenarios where protagonists fight desperately to survive, "ZOM 100" may come as a delightful surprise. Instead of a bleak, dystopian landscape, the world portrayed in this anime is bright, colorful, and brimming with humor. This stark contrast serves as a canvas for the transformation of Akira Tendou, the series' main character.
The protagonist, a 24-year-old Japanese office worker living in an apartment, is navigating the trials and tribulations of everyday existence. His story takes an unexpected turn when he realizes that his city is teeming with zombies.
Akira, sick and tired of working, doesn’t want to go to work.
What sets "ZOM 100" apart is its protagonist's perspective. In most zombie stories, the main character's primary goal is survival. However, Akira approaches the zombie apocalypse with an entirely different outlook. He sees the outbreak of zombies as a miraculous event that has granted his life a much-needed break from the exploitation of the company where he works. This refreshing and somewhat quirky viewpoint sets the tone for the series.
Akira instantly cheers up upon realizing that he doesn’t need to go to work anymore—despite being chased by zombies.
"ZOM 100" boasts a straightforward yet engaging premise. The story initially appears to be a survival horror tale set amidst a zombie apocalypse. However, what distinguishes it from the rest is the protagonist's mindset. Unlike typical protagonists who approach a zombie outbreak with fear and desperation, Akira Tendou embraces it with an unconventional perspective.
A Slice of Life Amidst Chaos
One of the most intriguing aspects of "ZOM 100" is its incorporation of the slice-of-life genre, an unusual choice for a narrative centered around zombies. Despite the chaos of the zombie-infested world, the anime offers a glimpse into the daily life of Akira Tendou. This unexpected twist in the slice-of-life genre gives the story depth and complexity. As Akira grapples with the surreal circumstances, viewers are treated to a unique blend of slice-of-life storytelling with the looming threat of zombies as a backdrop.
While the anime may seem like a light-hearted joyride on the surface, it conceals a deeper focus—the Bucket List. Though zombies serve as the initial hook, the true essence of the anime lies in the pursuit of the Bucket List. Oddly, the zombies themselves remain somewhat unexplained, as the narrative provides no clear origin for their existence. Instead, they serve as a backdrop to Akira's personal journey.
Akira’s Bucket List, as seen in the manga.
Within the series, viewers encounter a cast of survivors—or rather, joyriders. The characters' reactions add to the strange conditions of the zombie invasion. On one hand, there are those who are terrified, grappling with the desperate need to survive day by day. On the other hand, there's Akira, who seems perplexed because he's run out of beer. As the series progresses, these bizarre character dynamics become even more pronounced.
In a world drawn to complex narratives, "ZOM 100" offers a refreshing escape, emphasizing the joy of entertainment. It reinvigorates the zombie genre with vibrant visuals and eccentric characters, appealing to both seasoned anime enthusiasts and those seeking a carefree experience.
The series challenges conventions, where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, and personal growth unfolds amid the undead backdrop. It serves as a delightful reminder that even in chaos, humor, adventure, and the pursuit of dreams can thrive.
Above Average Production Values
Beyond its narrative uniqueness, "ZOM 100: Bucket List of the Dead" excels in its animation quality. BUG Films, the studio behind the anime, deserves commendation for delivering an exceptional visual experience. The animation is characterized by fluid motion, vibrant colors, and meticulous attention to detail that breathes life into every frame. The series' paintball aesthetic—a unique way of censoring blood and other gory scenes—and action sequences create a captivating visual style that sets it apart from its peers.
In terms of music, "ZOM 100" has thus far maintained a balance without any particularly standout compositions. The opening sequence, however, is noteworthy, both for its animation quality and the musical accompaniment.
OPENING | Song of the Dead by KANA-BOON | Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead | VIZ
Is ZOM 100 Worth The Watch?
The four main characters of the series: Kencho, Akira, Shizuka and Beatrix.
Whether "ZOM 100: Bucket List of the Dead" is worth watching depends on your preferences as an anime viewer. If you're looking for a unique take on the zombie genre that prioritizes humor, lightheartedness, and quirky characters over dark and serious themes, then "ZOM 100" might be a perfect choice. It offers an enjoyable and entertaining experience, blending comedy with occasional serious undertones.
However, if you prefer zombie-themed anime with a more traditional, apocalyptic survival focus, you might find "ZOM 100" to be a departure from your expectations. It's essential to consider your taste in anime and whether you're open to exploring a different perspective on the zombie genre.
Ultimately, "ZOM 100" has received positive reviews from fans who appreciate its refreshing approach, vibrant animation, and the balance between humor and storytelling. To determine if it's worth watching for you, consider giving it a try and see if it resonates with your preferences and interests.
And of course, if you like ZOM 100, don’t forget to buy merch (such as this awesome Shizuka Mikazuki figure!) here at ZenPlus so you can easily buy authentic Japanese products straight from Japan!
What do you think?
How did the zombie apocalypse start and why did it happen?
Will Akira be able to fulfill everything in his list?
Will one of them end up being eaten by a zombie before the series ends?
Let us know in the comments or drop us a line on social media: X(former Twitter), Instagram, Facebook! We’d love to hear from you!
ZenPlus is your one-stop shop for all things Japanese. Check out our marketplace for manga volumes, cosplay, figures, and other merch from the ZOM 100 franchise!
You can watch ZOM100: Bucket List of the Dead” on Bilibili, Netflix, Prime Video, Muse Asia and Crunchyroll.
About The Writer
Cristy is a freelance artist and writer who has been obsessed with anime and manga since childhood. Her love for these imaginative worlds fuels her creative endeavors, and she shows no signs of stopping anytime soon.
