The Japanese comic book series, Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles by Stan Sakai, has been set by Netflix, per Deadline. It is the first animated television series to be based on the beloved series, which was first published in 1987 and is still in publication today.
The comic book series is set in Japan in the 17th and 18th centuries – also called the Edo period – but replaces humans with anthropomorphic animals, hence the name Samurai Rabbit. Both historical and mythological figures are referenced in the books, combining the fantastical nature of the plot and episodic storylines with specific references to Japanese culture and history.
The Netflix adaptation of the series will feature a CGI teenage Samurai Rabbit named Yuigi who embarks on an epic quest to become a true samurai. Descended from the legendary warrior Miyamoto Usagi, Yuigi must live up to his ancestor’s name and become a great warrior himself. During his quest, he is joined by a ragtag but lovable team that includes “a roguish bounty hunter, a cunning ninja, an acrobatic pickpocket and a faithful pet lizard” (Variety). He encounters and defeats numerous villains on his quest, such as gigantic moles, metal-tipped winged bats, and monsters from alternate dimensions,
Sakai, although best known for Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles, has also served as writer and illustrator for the Simpsons comics, as well as for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The adaptation of Samurai Rabbit will be executive produced by Sakai, Christophe Riandee (Last Night, Splice), Nicolas Atlan (Code Lyoko, F is for Family), Sidonie Dumas (Last Night, Splice), Terry Kalagian (Knights of Sidonia), Mike Richardson (The Mask, Timecop), Keith Goldberg (The Legend of Tarzan, Cellular), Chris Tongue (Polar, Hellboy), Michael Clear (Lights Out, The Nun), and Rob Hackett (director, Patience; director, Boris in the Forest).