Tatsuki Fujimoto's Early Masterpieces '17-21' and '22-26' Greenlit for Anime, Global Premiere Set for Prime Video in November 2025

Prepare for an unprecedented journey into the foundational genius of Tatsuki Fujimoto, the visionary mind behind the global phenomenon Chainsaw Man. His critically acclaimed early anthology manga collections, 17-21 and 22-26, are officially set for a groundbreaking anime adaptation, poised to captivate audiences worldwide. Mark your calendars: this highly anticipated series will debut exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on November 7, 2025, reaching over 240 countries and territories simultaneously.
These two compelling volumes, originally released in 2021, offer a rare and intimate look into Fujimoto's creative evolution, compiling eight one-shot stories he meticulously crafted between the formative ages of 17 and 26. Far from a singular narrative, the anthologies traverse a stunning spectrum of genres, from the whimsical depths of fantasy and sharp wit of comedy to the chilling suspense of horror and the imaginative expanse of sci-fi. This diverse collection not only showcases the raw talent that would later define his iconic works but also provides fans with an invaluable insight into the experimental spirit that shaped one of manga's most inventive voices.
Among the standout tales is 'A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin' in the Schoolyard,' a darkly humorous and poignant narrative set in a post-apocalyptic world. Here, two human survivors don elaborate chicken disguises, a desperate gambit to evade relentless alien hunters a perfect encapsulation of Fujimoto's unique blend of the absurd and the profound.
Bringing these intricate stories to life is an extraordinary collaborative effort involving six powerhouse animation studios: ZEXCS, Lapin Track, GRAPH77, 100studio, Studio Kafka, and P.A.WORKS, all operating under the meticulous supervision of Flagship Line. A formidable team of seven directors helms the project, ensuring a rich tapestry of visual styles and narrative interpretations. Noteworthy among them is Seishirou Nagaya, who not only directs but also pens the script for the 'Clucking Chickens' segment, with Moaang lending their artistic prowess as character designer and animation director for that same captivating story. Further directorial talent includes Tetsuaki Watanabe and Nobuyuki Takeuchi, promising a truly diverse and dynamic viewing experience.

The ensemble voice cast, featuring acclaimed talents such as Kensho Ono, Shion Sakurai, Kazuki Ura, Kimiko Saitou, and Mitsuo Iwata, is set to imbue these distinctive characters with unforgettable performances. This anime adaptation represents a pivotal moment, significantly expanding Fujimoto’s animated legacy beyond Chainsaw Man and the recently lauded Look Back film. Its global premiere on Prime Video underscores the immense international appetite for his unique brand of storytelling. With a thrilling trailer already released by Avex Pictures igniting fervent discussion across anime communities, fans can eagerly anticipate a varied collection of emotional, thrilling, and thought-provoking shorts that illuminate the very foundations of a modern master.
Credits
Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26
Author
Tatsuki Fujimoto
Cover Art
Moaang (Character Design - 'Clucking Chickens'), other artists across short stories
Studio
ZEXCS, Lapin Track, GRAPH77, 100studio, Studio Kafka, P.A.WORKS
Publisher
Shueisha
Producers