Funimation, a prominent US distributor, recently announced the expansion of their streaming platform, Funimation Now, with the addition of several new titles. This expansion comes as part of their collaboration with Aniplex of America and Nozomi Entertainment, two major distributors in the anime industry.
The four new anime series that have been added to Funimation Now are Fate/Stay Night [Unlimited Blade Works], Fate/Zero, Gravitation, and Junjo Romantica. These titles will be available for streaming in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Ireland, offering a wider range of content to anime enthusiasts in these regions.
Starting with Fate/Stay Night [Unlimited Blade Works], this 2014-2015 anime series produced by studio Ufotable is based on the popular Unlimited Blade Works storyline from the Fate/Stay Night visual novel developed by Type-Moon. Funimation Now provides all 26 episodes of the series, divided into two cours. Viewers can enjoy the original Japanese audio with English subtitles or opt for the English dub.
The story takes place in Fuyuki City, a scenic location surrounded by the sea and mountains. Here, an ancient ritual unfolds as seven masters are bestowed with control over heroic spirits known as “servants.” Their objective is to partake in the Holy Grail War, a battle to obtain the mythical Holy Grail, which grants its owner any wish. Each servant represents a legendary hero from various classes, such as Saber, Lancer, Archer, and more. The masters forge contracts with their chosen servants, engaging in a deadly struggle until only one pair remains. Rin Tohsaka, a skilled mage, embarks on this perilous journey alongside her servant Archer, while encountering unexpected alliances and formidable adversaries. The series delves into the conspiracies surrounding the Holy Grail War and the intertwined fates of its participants.
Moving on to Fate/Zero, also produced by Ufotable, this anime series aired in 2011-2012 and serves as a prequel to the events of Fate/Stay Night. Based on the light novel series by Gen Urobuchi, Fate/Zero delves into the fourth Holy Grail War that takes place ten years prior to the main story. Funimation Now presents all 25 episodes of the series, with the option to watch in Japanese with English subtitles or the English dub.
The narrative revolves around seven masters, each summoning a familiar called a “servant” to engage in a fierce battle for the Holy Grail’s power. Among the masters is Kirei Kotomine, a tortured soul seeking a purpose in the war. His path intertwines with that of Kiritsugu Emiya, a master driven by his desire to obtain the Holy Grail’s miraculous capabilities. Fate/Zero explores the origins of the Holy Grail War, the conflicting ideologies of the masters, and the sacrifices they are willing to make to achieve their goals.
Shifting gears to Gravitation, a 2000 anime series from studio Deen, Funimation Now brings all 13 episodes of this captivating show to its streaming platform. Based on the manga series by Maki Murakami, Gravitation tells the story of Shuichi, an aspiring rock star who encounters Eiri Yuki, a famous novelist. Shuichi’s life takes a dramatic turn when he falls in love with Yuki, who initially criticizes his musical talent. This unconventional romance unfolds against the backdrop of Shuichi’s determination to prove himself and the challenges they face as their relationship deepens. Funimation Now allows viewers to enjoy Gravitation in its original Japanese audio with English subtitles or the English dub.
Additionally, Funimation Now offers the two-episode OVA series Gravitation: Lyrics of Love from studio Plum, expanding the Gravitation universe further. Fans can delve into this special release, which features both the original Japanese audio with English subtitles and the English dub.
Furthermore, Nozomi Entertainment brings another beloved series to Funimation Now, namely Junjo Romantica. This 2008 anime series from studio Deen is based on the manga by Shungiku Nakamura. Funimation Now provides all 24 episodes of Junjo Romantica, divided into two seasons. Each season follows three different couples as they navigate the stormy seas of romance. In the Romantica storyline, Misaki, a high school student, finds himself in a complicated relationship with his private tutor, Usami. The Egoist storyline focuses on Kamijou, who encounters Nowaki, a man who brings passion and excitement into his life. Lastly, the Terrorist storyline explores the unique bond between Miyagi and Shinobu. With its mix of comedy, drama, and heartfelt moments, Junjo Romantica has captivated audiences worldwide. Fans can choose to watch the series in its original Japanese audio with English subtitles.
It’s worth noting that the third season of Junjo Romantica is already available for streaming on Funimation Now, allowing viewers to continue following the journeys of these engaging couples.
For fans looking to enhance their anime collection, Fate/Stay Night [Unlimited Blade Works] and Fate/Zero are available on Blu-ray from MVM Entertainment. Although Gravitation is no longer in print on DVD, MVM Entertainment previously distributed the series, offering fans an opportunity to own this captivating story. Both seasons of Junjo Romantica are available on Blu-ray from Anime Limited, providing fans with a high-quality physical release of this beloved series.
With these new additions to Funimation Now, anime enthusiasts in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Ireland have access to an even wider range of content, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the anime industry. Whether it’s the epic battles and intricate storytelling of the Fate series, the unconventional romance of Gravitation, or the charming relationships in Junjo Romantica, Funimation Now continues to cater to the interests and passions of anime fans around the world.
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