Picture: Netflix
For the most part, Netflix’s vast Annecy Animation Film Festival slate was focused on brand-new projects rather than returning series (there is a distinct lack of them, to be fair), but one exception was Blue Eye Samurai season 2. During its Netflix Series Animation: Get Ready for What’s Next! Presentation, audiences at the festival were treated to some early first looks at season 2 in addition to some fresh new teases from the creative team spearheading the new episodes.
The series was presented as part of Netflix’s Adult Spectacle lineup, which also included previews for Magic: The Gathering and the announcement of its new studio, plus a first look at Splinter Cell: Deathwatch ahead of its release later this year.
We kicked off the segment with a jaw-dropping sizzle reel and commentary from co-creators Michael Green and Amber Noizumi, alongside executive producer Jane Wu, all of whom dialed in virtually to share what’s in store after being introduced by Dylan Thomas, director of Adult Animation for Netflix. Thomas said, “While I can’t say much, I will say that somehow the scripts and the storyboards are crazier, they’re bigger, and even more heart-wrenching than season one.
They really outdid themselves.”
The team behind the show expressed their gratitude to fans of the show, which allowed them to get a renewal. “When we started Blue Eye Samurai, we had no idea if anyone would care,” said Amber Noizumi. “We just wanted to tell this story. But the fans showed up, thank you.” That renewal came in late 2023 for a second season consisting of 6 episodes and the show has since picked up a slew of awards.
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The theme of season 2? Revenge is still very much the name of the game as our hero (and season 1 antagonist) heads to London. “Being a samurai is a demon’s path, littered with death,” says Mizu in the new clip. “Revenge does not hesitate. And I will have it.”
Several clips and first look photos from the new season, yet to be released to the public, debuted to audiences in the Annecy tent. Some behind-the-scenes clips showcased various stunt actors providing live-action references for the upcoming season, doubling down on its roots in live-action stunt choreography. Executive producer Jane Wu described the action as being staged with the same philosophy as live-action fight sequences, pushing the animation medium further than ever.
Team Hints at Returning Characters, Including Someone Unexpected?
Staying on the subject of what to expect from season 2, the team confirmed your favorites will all be returning, like Taigen, Ringo, Akemi, and The Swordmaker.
“There are also going to be maybe some people you thought died… who maybe are still alive,” hinted co-creator Noizumi with a smirk, with Green questioning whether she just dropped a major spoiler. Who could that be referring to? There was a lot of death in season 1, so there’s a wide net to cast. Could any of Mizu’s previous adversaries be back like Chiaki, Kinuyo, Mikio, or Okiyama? Perhaps Noizumi is referring to Seki? What about Heiji Shindo? There are a number of options.
Blue Eye Samurai. Maya Erskine as Mizu in Blue Eye Samurai season 1 – Cr. COURTESY OF NETFLIX © 2023
In other Blue Eye Samurai news, we recently reported two major castings for the upcoming season, including the inclusion of Freddie Fox and Eve Ridley.
For a full list of all the new announcements that came out of the Annecy Film Festival, check out our full Annecy recap here. Are you excited for the return of Blue Eye Samurai? Let us know in the comments down below.
Rating: TV-MA
