New ThunderCats

[soul science]

Can't believe nobody has posted this here yet.

Lion-O and the warriors from Thundera will be back on television next year in a new animated series set to air on Cartoon Network in 2011.

Produced by Warner Bros. Animation, the new "Thundercats" series will be the studio's first project to use anime-style animation, and promises to be a "21st century reimagining" of the classic '80s cartoon series.

According to the studio, the new series will appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers to the universe of Lion-O and his Thunderan brethren.

Calling it "a sweeping tale combining swords and science and boasting ferocious battles with the highest of stakes," the studio offered some hints about what the new "Thundercats" series will involve, including "the grand origin story of Prince Lion-O’s ascension to the throne – and of those who would thwart his destiny at any cost."

For the project, WBA will collaborate with noted Japanese animation Studio4°C (“The Animatrix,” “Gotham Knights”), who will update the characters' look for the series.

"Thundercats" will be executive produced by Sam Register (“Teen Titans,” “Ben 10,” “Batman: The Brave and the Bold”), with Michael Jelenic (“Batman: The Brave and the Bold,” “Wonder Woman”) and Ethan Spaulding (“Avatar: The Last Airbender”) as producers.

Roaring to life through WBA and Studio4°C's use of the Japanese animated artistry of anime, "ThunderCats" characters Lion-O, Mumm-Ra, Panthro, Cheetara and others will spring off the screen with realistic cat-like characteristics inconceivable in previous incarnations.

The new "ThunderCats" will appeal to viewers who have loved the characters all their lives as well as young newcomers to the franchise. A sweeping tale combining swords and science and boasting ferocious battles with the highest of stakes, the grand origin story of Prince Lion-O's ascension to the throne - and of those who would thwart his destiny at any cost - takes on epic dimensions in this sharp new telling. As the forces of good and evil battle each other in the quest for the fabled Stones of Power, Lion-O and his champions learn valuable lessons of loyalty, honor and mortality in every episode.

Edited February 3, 2011 by soul science

[Toku Warrior]

That's because getting a hold of decent images of the series is pretty hard as google doesn't really have anything new for this series, just the 80's images.

And I can't wait for this series to start. As a fan of the old series I eagerly want this one to be good but also different from the old one at the same time. From what i can tell from those images though, they don't have the twins Wily Kit and wily Kat or even Snarf in it. I wonder.....

[soul science]

That's because getting a hold of decent images of the series is pretty hard as google doesn't really have anything new for this series, just the 80's images.

And I can't wait for this series to start. As a fan of the old series I eagerly want this one to be good but also different from the old one at the same time. From what i can tell from those images though, they don't have the twins Wily Kit and wily Kat or even Snarf in it. I wonder.....

WilyKit and WilyKat WILL be in the series, Snarf too:

[*Jess♥]

it's not anime though.

it's misleading to call it anime in the thread subtitle.

it's not anime.

it's a cartoon.

the most notable difference is that in the USA, cartoons are aimed at youngsters.

anime is aimed at people.

I have no interest in this because it is not anime. it's a cartoon.

cartoons can be good, and i don't have anything against people liking them, but I don't like cartoons.

I don't like cartoons being called anime.

[Aether]

it's not anime though.

......

I don't like cartoons being called anime.

i think this post is more about your offense of americans using the anime style for their evil marketing purposes

yeah the thread titles misleading -its not as if its like the japanese ironman reboot or anything and i totally agree its not anime, but thats a very purist attitude dude to say you have no interest just because a cartoon isnt made in japan...

however

those character designs look freakin amazing!!!!

i cant wait to see it just for some eye candy -although i really do hope it isnt 'kiddiefied' and we get some decent action and stories out of it...it might be just possible as they are surely aware that there is a good following of 20-30 somethings interested in this... if they got a good balance they'll have a hit

[soul science]

it's not anime though.

......

I don't like cartoons being called anime.

i think this post is more about your offense of americans using the anime style for their evil marketing purposes

yeah the thread titles misleading -its not as if its like the japanese ironman reboot or anything and i totally agree its not anime, but thats a very purist attitude dude to say you have no interest just because a cartoon isnt made in japan...

however

those character designs look freakin amazing!!!!

i cant wait to see it just for some eye candy -although i really do hope it isnt 'kiddiefied' and we get some decent action and stories out of it...it might be just possible as they are surely aware that there is a good following of 20-30 somethings interested in this... if they got a good balance they'll have a hit

First off it is ANIME, havent you guys read the press releases? The original was also semi-Anime (animated in Japan, written in America). This new series will also be much darker and not 'kiddie'.

[Aether]

in all honesty i cant say it is anime... its not a japanese concept or creation, nor aimed primarily at japanese people or the japanese market... it looks like anime and is animated in a japanese studio but i still wouldnt say it was actually anime in the true sense of the word...

say if the simpsons had been animated in japan in a manga style and not korea in the (modified) matt groening style for the past 26 years - would that make it anime???

Edited February 1, 2011 by Eether

[*Jess♥]

what press release?

i read all information presented here.

It's being produced by warner bros, an american company, and headed by american guys who make american cartoons.

and it's being marketed to the USA on CARTOON network.

I think that's really enough to go by?

am I purist?

I dunno. when something is marketed towards western youngsters as opposed to japanese of all ages, i think that's a adequate reason not to like something.

I wouldn't expect avatar fans to necessarily like the barbie CGI cartoons.

anyway, I was surely a bit blunt in my post. please don't take offence, I'm not attacking anyone. just being very clear about my feelings.

please feel free to celebrate new thundercats. i loved thundercats when i was little.

and this will probably be very good. just not my cup of tea. (and not anime )

[Toku Warrior]

First off it is ANIME, havent you guys read the press releases? The original was also semi-Anime (animated in Japan, written in America). This new series will also be much darker and not 'kiddie'.

Sorry man, but, no, IT"S NOT!

An ANIME is something that is created entirely and aired in Japan that is then possibly picked up for international distribution in other countries and dubbed in those countries languages. Plus, anime is 100% of the time tied into the short name term meaning Japanese Animation.

Calling this an anime is like someone calling TMNT, Teen Titans, Avatar or Transformers Animated an anime. They aren't.

If it's being produced by an American company then it's a cartoon. Look at the series such as Justice League and/or Ben 10. the series is produced in America and the key scenes are done in the U.S. as well. The only thing done outside the states is the filler frames in which some of the animation between scenes, slight color modification and certain special effects are added.

Other color blends, special effects, sounds, vocals and music are done here in America. the original Thundercats cartoon did this the exact same way. Did most of the stuff here and then had a partner studio in Japan do the in-betweens for some of the animation. Heck, JLU and Ben 10 get their in-betweens done in Korea.

So you can't just simply call it an anime just because you yourself believe it should be called that. As such, I'll say it again. An ANIME is made 100% IN JAPAN. No American control what-so-ever with the exception that an anime is completely based around an American Cartoon, comic or movie to induce international profit. (Iron-Man, Wolverine, Powerpuff Girls Z).

And Eether is right. An anime is also solely intended to be targeted at a Japanese audience. They just get lucky if a certain series gets enough international attention.

And, Ryuki, no problem with what you said. Being blunt about things sometimes is a good thing.

Little bit of trivia for anime fans, did you now that the big eyes most commonly known for anime are actually an American influence thanks to the very old Disney and Loony Tunes cartoons as they had the big eyes first? the exaggerated facial and body expressions also fall into this category.

[*Jess♥]

yikes, now it seems like we are tag teaming soul science [emote=onion]hurt[/emote]

we love you soul science!! [emote=onion]whistle[/emote]

and thank you for making this topic in the first place!

[Toku Warrior]

I wouldn't say we're ganging up on him. I would say we're just trying to make sure he understands what sets the difference between Anime and Cartoon. Other than that I like it how he's keeping us informed. If anything, I want to know where he's finding those images. I like them so far except for Snarf.

Actually, Soul Science, if you could would you please post the link to that press release.

Edited February 2, 2011 by Toku Warrior

[Toku Warrior]

Oh, wait a sec. Here's a link to an interview that MTV slash Page had with Thundercats 2011 producer Ethan Spaulding.

http://splashpage.mt...mage-interview/

And this is that press release I was looking for. SS was right when they called it an anime, lol.

Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) has begun production on ThunderCats, an all-new animated series for Cartoon Network, based upon the iconic 1980s action classic. ThunderCats is the newest series from WBA, joining Batman: The Brave and the Bold, which was recently renewed for a third season, and the following forthcoming programs: The Looney Tunes Show, MAD, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated and Young Justice. The announcement was made today by Sam Register, Executive Vice President, Creative Affairs, Warner Bros. Animation.

"In addition to being Warner Bros. Animation's first anime series, ThunderCats marks our most ambitious foray yet into fantasy," said Register. "The realism and dynamic visual style we've achieved are sure to thrill viewers, and the cool weapons, vehicles and technology should help the show appeal to a diverse audience."

The 21st century reimagining of the series marks a creative collaboration between WBA and Studio4°C, one of the most vibrant animation studios in Japan, with credits including The Animatrix, Gotham Knights and Halo Legends. WBA is working closely with Studio4°C, utilizing the latter's expertise to give the ThunderCats characters a new cutting-edge look while remaining true to the compelling storylines and mythology of the original series.

"We at Studio4°C are excited to be in this creative partnership with Warner Bros. Animation to bring ThunderCats to life," said Eiko Tanaka, President and CEO, Studio4°C. "This collaboration combines the strengths of our two companies — high production values and great storytelling — toward reintroducing this classic fan-favorite to a new audience."

Roaring to life through WBA and Studio4°C's use of the Japanese animated artistry of anime, ThunderCats characters Lion-O, Mumm-Ra, Panthro, Cheetara and others will spring off the screen with realistic cat-like characteristics inconceivable in previous incarnations.

The new ThunderCats will appeal to viewers who have loved the characters all their lives as well as young newcomers to the franchise. A sweeping tale combining swords and science and boasting ferocious battles with the highest of stakes, the grand origin story of Prince Lion-O's ascension to the throne – and of those who would thwart his destiny at any cost — takes on epic dimensions in this sharp new telling. As the forces of good and evil battle each other in the quest for the fabled Stones of Power, Lion-O and his champions learn valuable lessons of loyalty, honor and mortality in every episode.

ThunderCats is executive produced by Sam Register (Teen Titans, Ben 10, Batman: The Brave and the Bold). Michael Jelenic (Batman: The Brave and the Bold, Wonder Woman) and Ethan Spaulding (Avatar: The Last Airbender) are the producers.

I'm also adding an image of their current toy line. I want the Sword of Omens!!!

Edited February 2, 2011 by Toku Warrior

[soul science]

I wouldn't say we're ganging up on him. I would say we're just trying to make sure he understands what sets the difference between Anime and Cartoon. Other than that I like it how he's keeping us informed. If anything, I want to know where he's finding those images. I like them so far except for Snarf.

Actually, Soul Science, if you could would you please post the link to that press release.

I don't care what you guys say, its anime to me.

The press releses are everywhere. Thats why I was surprised that you didnt have it on here already.

Bandai is making the figures, heres some early pics of them:

[*Jess♥]

no, they said they are using the artistry of anime.

farscape used the puppetry of jim henson, but that didn't make it muppets.

animatrix used that studio too, but was not anime.

it just used anime artistry.the most significant factor in any production is the producers. in this case the producers are warner brothers, and american cartoon producer guys.

the most notable aspects will be the plot, narrative, music and pacing etc.

[*Jess♥]

I don't care what you guys say, its anime to me.

i respect your opinion, but i do feel the subtitle is misleading.

I'd like to ask you to change it please.

either change to animation, or put inverted comma marks round 'anime'.

[durendal]

I think the term "Anime" is thrown into a lot of things without anybody even noticing what it really is. Okay, call me a purist, but Anime is basically a shorthand for Animation. Japanese have this habit of creating shorthand words for almost everything. So TMNT, Ben 10 and even Justice league, they are all called Anime in Japan. If anime is solely used for animation made in Japan, then why do we have Korean Anime?

I think the misconception that everyone is having is the word "Cartoon". Cartoon is not animation. The definition of cartoon is a preparatory drawing for a piece of art. What you see in the comics section of the newspaper, that is a cartoon. That is why we have the term "animated cartoon". Emphasis on the word "animated". It's really frustrating to get into a debate about "cartoons vs anime" without really knowing the truths. Anyway.....

Cool, a new thundercats animation! Although I'm somewhat miffed that they had to borrow influences from japanese animation. I loved the old thundercats. And even though they were animated by japanese, the character designs were American, and you can distinguish them from the oriental counterpart. This new series is like trying to be something that they are not.

[*Jess♥]

language... it evolves so much.

well if i were japanese and SS was japanese then we would both call it anime.

but we're not.

we're native english speakers. that makes it a cartoon

but we could say it's an american cartoon using anime footage?

it's not like i want to argue about it... but the cats out of the bag now.

i can accept if anybody want to say "it's anime" because it's animated in japan.

that way is descriptive and expressing an opinion. but to call it a 'new anime'

generally gives the impression it is being prduced by japanese, for japanese tv.

[durendal]

language... it evolves so much.

well if i were japanese and SS was japanese then we would both call it anime.

but we're not.

we're native english speakers. that makes it a cartoon

but we could say it's an american cartoon using anime footage?

it's not like i want to argue about it... but the cats out of the bag now.

i can accept if anybody want to say "it's anime" because it's animated in japan.

that way is descriptive and expressing an opinion. but to call it a 'new anime'

generally gives the impression it is being prduced by japanese, for japanese tv.

Ah, "cat out of the bag", I like the pun in that, even if it was not intended.

I would still prefer to call it Japanese inspired instead of anime footage. Footage makes it sound like it was already done and your just re-using the same material.

I really don't like using the word cartoon as a descriptive word, heck I don't even like to call Justice League Cartoon. I'm rather old fashioned and prefer to call them animation. Hey, it's a free world so we can call them whatever we want. However, I'm still reserving judgement for the new series until I see it for myself. So I take it that this is going to be a re-imagination? That concept seems to be used a lot nowadays. Looks like only Tron made a sequel to the old franchise.

[Aether]

just a side note that when Anime was new to us westerners it was also known as Japanimation...which kind of speaks for itself...

yet again its semantics...to anyone outside Japan you say anime and they know what you mean

Anime is all things, all genres and animated cartoons seem predominantly somewhat restricted in the genres they present...which is largely down to culture and the producers making the shows. i think this is another factor of what sets apart anime from animated cartoons.

I think reimagining's are fine if they exceed the original in some way or can hold there own as a stand alone creation (i watched the A-team movie the other day and was pleasantly surprised that it didnt 100% suck), but otherwise they seem to be cash ins and a nod to the fact that no one can really create anything original and cool anymore- it seems entertainment peaked in the 80's!

[Guest DekaWalMartRed]

Does that make most transformers cartoons amine then? Jus wondering, as the majority of them were made in japan for the Japanese audience, and were then picked up for US audiences. Unicron trilogy, etc.

And I always thought the large anime eyes came from the fact that baby's eyes are large and wide to make them cute, and so appealing anime characters are given the adorable "baby" look...

[*Jess♥]

i think things like headmasters etc, is anime.

made by japanese for japanese.

and the original influences of large eyes etc was said to be mickey mouse, betty boop, etc.

interesting fact here...

some cartoons that were aired when i was a child, are actually anime.

a couple surprising ones for me, ox tales, around the world with willy fog.

[Super Existence]

Philistines! They redesigned the Thunder Tank! Are they all mentally ill or something? If it ain't broke-- oh forget it!

[*Jess♥]

the music was amazing for the original thundercats.

I wonder if they can possibly match that?

[*V Guyver]

probably not, very few composers today who do 80's hard rock sounds. Look at the horrid music we had in the new transformers. Not even a tenth as good as the original series. Still boggles the mind why they didn't even care to use LION's Hard Rock Version of the transformers theme. So as you can imagine, the thundercats may fall prey to the saem issues.

I stopped eyeing thunder cats news years ago. After so many failed character concept designs and studio uptakes. I didn't think the remake would take of the ground. I'm serious, we had at least 15 different artists work on concept designs, and about 4 animation companies licensed then dropped by the WB over setting up production. Especially last year as the Warner Bros started shutting down more of their animation branch of the company.

[soul science]

Sry guys I just thought (after reading so much on it) that it was Anime. I didnt think it had to be created, marketed, and air in Japan in order for it to be Anime. But I guess you guys are experts when it comes to this stuff. Only Animes I ever liked are Guyver, Ronin Warriors, G-Force, and most recently Fullmetal alchemist. Most ThunderCats fans I know of are calling this new series 'anime' though.

The new ThunderCats is gonna be more like the last airbender series. It should be great but fans of the old one are upset at alot of the changes. The only things I dont like are Panthros new size and hair/sideburns, and Tygra having a handgun.

oh, and I changed the subtitle ryuki