P.A.WORKS' 'APPARE-RANMAN!': A Steampunk Race Across a Reimagined American Frontier

P.A.WORKS introduced APPARE-RANMAN!, an original anime series that expanded the studio's established repertoire beyond slice-of-life and drama. Debuting in April 2020, the series is set in a reimagined late 19th or early 20th century America, where technological innovation meets a rugged wilderness. A central element is the 'Trans-America Wild Race,' a cross-continental competition from Los Angeles to New York, offering significant recognition and a substantial reward.

A notable feature of APPARE-RANMAN! is its blend of historical aesthetics with steampunk elements. The series re-imagines its setting, featuring custom-built automobiles that are anachronistic for the period. These vehicles, ranging from steam-powered designs to early gasoline-fueled models, were meticulously designed by Shiho Takeuchi. Their designs reflect the ingenuity and backgrounds of their drivers, providing a visual highlight for those interested in engineering and design.

The narrative follows two Japanese protagonists: Appare Sorano, an inventor focused on mechanical innovation, and Kosame Isshiki, a traditional samurai who serves as Appare's guardian. Appare's inventive capabilities, demonstrated through his evolving vehicle, the 'Sorano,' contrast with Kosame's commitment to honor and duty. This dynamic creates both comedic situations and an exploration of cultural differences between traditional values and rapid innovation, particularly as Kosame adjusts to a new environment.

The supporting cast includes characters representing the diverse population of early America. These include Hototo, a young Native American boy pursuing justice; Jing Xialian, a Chinese female racer challenging societal expectations; and Al Leon, an American heir. Each character's motivations and skills contribute to the series' themes of ambition, prejudice, camaraderie, and the pursuit of personal goals within a setting of expansive landscapes and action sequences.

Directed by Masakazu Hashimoto, P.A.WORKS utilized its strengths in background art and animation to depict this setting. Visual storytelling is a key aspect, with detailed frames showcasing desert landscapes and mechanical intricacies, contributing to the scale of the 'Trans-America Wild Race.' In addition to the action, APPARE-RANMAN! incorporates social commentary on industrialization, elements of the Wild West, and societal changes, which enhances the world-building and provides historical context for the race.

Overall, APPARE-RANMAN! highlights the human drive for innovation, exploration, and connection. It presents a combination of action, adventure, and historical fantasy, establishing its distinct position within the anime genre.