Übel Blatt, one of the most eagerly awaited anime series for Winter 2025, is currently facing significant backlash from the social media community. This negative response primarily centers around its far-reaching adaptations, which have strayed from the original manga. Having been serialized for more than 15 years, Übel Blatt has not only solidified its status as a leading title in the dark medieval genre but has also recently released a sequel manga. However, the anime’s approach to censorship has sparked controversy, especially among dedicated fans who hold the original material in high regard.
The narrative of Übel Blatt revolves around themes of revenge interwoven with explicit sexual content and graphic violence. Many fans are disappointed in the adaptation produced by Satelight and Staple Entertainment, now streaming on Prime Video, claiming it does not honor the source material adequately.The anime has sacrificed not only pivotal plot elements but has also omitted significant explicit content found exclusively in the manga.
Censorship in Übel Blatt’s Anime Adaptation
Shift in Übel Blatt’s Tone: From Seinen to Shōnen?
In the original manga, there is a notable presence of gore, violence, nudity, and also instances of graphic sexual assault, especially depicted in the early chapters involving the antagonist Kfer. The anime, however, has removed explicit nudity and toned down several violent scenes. For example, casual encounters Koinzell has with female characters, such as Altea, have been eliminated, diluting the brutal nature of the narrative.
As a result, fans are polarized. Many believe these alterations undermine the manga’s authentic representation of its dystopian medieval setting—an environment characterized by graphic violence and themes of abuse. Conversely, some viewers appreciate the modifications, arguing that the original manga’s explicit themes detract from the core aspects of the storyline, action sequences, and world-building that make Übel Blatt appealing.
Moreover, the censorship could stem from the necessity to avoid sexually exploiting younger characters, particularly given Koinzell’s youthful appearance. The production may have opted for a safer approach to make the series more inclusive. Unfortunately, this has led to Übel Blatt resembling a shōnen anime more than a seinen one, disappointing loyal fans.
Fans Express Discontent Over Koinzell’s Altered Backstory
Support from the Author on Adaptation Changes
One of the most debated changes in the adaptation is the omission of Koinzell’s backstory; this crucial aspect details how he was betrayed and left for dead, which underpins his quest for vengeance. Instead, this narrative has been summarized in the opening sequence. Notably, an interview with producer Yuki Watanabe reveals that the changes made to the anime were discussed and approved by the manga’s creator, Etorouji Shiono.
What kind of conversations did you have with the original author, Etorouji Shiono, when making the animation?
Yuki Watanabe: This work was serialized 20 years ago, and it was a big title that kept serialized for 15 years. Mr. Shiono and I had a very positive conversation about what we should rearrange and what we should brush up on for the anime adaptation in 2025, while keeping in mind the essence of what he put into this work at the time of serialization. I am very grateful to Mr. Shiono for his detailed additions to the setting and worldview that had not been decided at the time of the serialization.
While censorship often impacts anime adaptations to meet broadcast standards and gain a broader audience, it has caused Übel Blatt to lose much of its original violence and intensity. Nonetheless, the producer’s statement hints that Koinzell’s backstory could still be integrated as flashbacks in future episodes. Fans are encouraged to keep watching Übel Blatt to discover what the creator and production team have planned for the series.
Source: Interview published by AnimeTV
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