Sand Land: The Series 2024 Tv Series Review

While not as widely celebrated as Dragon Ball or Dr. Slump, Sand Land remains a crucial part of Akira Toriyama’s illustrious portfolio, being his final serialized manga. The recent Sand Land anime, available on Disney+ and Hulu, represents some of Toriyama’s last creative endeavors, particularly with the addition of an original story in the seventh episode, scripted by Toriyama himself. This alone makes the series a compelling watch, alongside its stellar adaptation, remarkable 3D animation, expansive world-building, and nuanced themes that underpin an entertaining post-apocalyptic journey reminiscent of Toriyama’s signature style.

Imagine a fusion of early Dragon Ball, Fallout, and Mad Max, set in a world ravaged by war and natural calamities, where water is a precious resource and humans coexist with demons. Sheriff Rao, driven by a quest for justice, embarks on a mission to uncover a rumored spring and confront the oppressive rule of a tyrannical king, all while navigating the complexities of human-demon relations.

Despite the marketing focus on the spiky-haired demon Prince Beelzebub, the heart of Sand Land lies with Rao, whose past as a war commander shapes his present quest for redemption. While the series maintains a lighthearted tone and features humorous elements akin to Toriyama’s classics, it delves deeper into themes of trauma, war, and environmentalism, resonating with fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender and Pluto.

Visually stunning and narratively captivating, Sand Land utilizes 3D animation to its advantage, delivering breathtaking fight sequences and showcasing Toriyama’s intricate mech designs. The inclusion of a stolen tank as a pivotal character adds depth to the story, while paying homage to Toriyama’s penchant for mechanical aesthetics.

While the first six episodes may largely mirror the 2023 movie adaptation, the original story introduced in Episode 7 sets the stage for a promising continuation, featuring new characters, creatures, and expanded world-building. Sand Land emerges as a poignant post-apocalyptic saga, offering redemption and exploration in equal measure, cementing Toriyama’s legacy in anime and manga.