"Assassination Classroom" is a Japanese science fiction comedy anime and manga series created by Yusei Matsui. The series was serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine from July 2, 2012, to March 25, 2016. Directed by Seiji Kishi and produced by Noriko Ozaki, the anime aired on Fuji TV from January 9, 2015, to June 30, 2016. The English language release has been handled by Viz Media and Crunchyroll.
Assassination Classroom: The Brief Yet Enthralling Series
The story is centered on an octopus-like creature named Koro-sensei, who becomes a homeroom teacher for a class of "misfit" junior high students tasked with assassinating him to save Earth. The series was limited to just two seasons with 47 episodes and one OVA, but don't let the short run fool you; it packs a significant impact. Despite being relatively brief, "Assassination Classroom" captivated audiences with its unique premise, intricate character development, and a blend of humor and high-stakes drama. It's hard to believe that a series with such a strange concept could evoke a wide range of emotions, but it does, making its short run one of its most appealing features.
The Assassination Classroom Live-Action Interpretation
The popularity of the anime and manga led to a live-action adaptation, including two films released in 2015 and 2016. While the live-action versions remained true to the source material, they received mixed reviews from fans and critics alike. Some praised the effort to bring the story to a new medium, while others felt it didn't capture the essence that made the original so captivating.
Why You Should Watch It
If you're in the market for a series that is short, sweet, and comes with a conclusive ending, "Assassination Classroom" is an excellent pick. At its core, it's a story about an alien and the classroom of students hired to assassinate him, but it goes much deeper than that, exploring themes of friendship, mentorship, and the drive to improve oneself.
Additional Interesting Facts
- By September 2016, the manga had over 25 million copies circulating.
- A spin-off manga, titled "Koro Sensei Quest" extends the universe.
- The creature, Koro-sensei, has a range of superpowers, including flying at Mach 20.
- The story is narrated by Nagisa Shiota, a student in class 3-E, who turns out to be one of the most skillful assassins.
"Assassination Classroom" offers an enticing mix of action, comedy, and life lessons, making it a must-watch for any anime fan.