Key Takeaways:
– Madhouse, a major animation studio in Japan, faced significant losses from the 2009 movie ‘Redline’.
– Despite initially being a commercial failure, ‘Redline’ later earned cult classic status.
– Madhouse was saved from bankruptcy by Nippon TV, which now holds 95% of the studio’s shares.
– Despite the failures of ‘Redline’, Madhouse continues to produce successful anime hits.
Madhouse’s Resilience in the Animation Industry
Madhouse, a leading animation studio in Japan, has made some impressive strides in the animation business since its establishment in 1972. This studio boasts success in the anime and manga industry, churning out top names like Hunter x Hunter (2011), Yu Yu Hakusho, Death Note, and One Punch Man. However, every success story has its pitfalls; in 2009, Madhouse’s reputation took a hit following the release of the infamous movie ‘Redline’.
The Unexpected Failure of ‘Redline’
Released on October 9, 2009, in Japan, ‘Redline’ was heavily marketed and premiered at the Locarno International Film Festival on August 14, 2009. With an investment of around $30 million, hopes were high for ‘Redline’. However, the movie could only recoup around $8 million after its official release, marking it as one of the most significant flops of the year.
But, like the mythical phoenix rising from the ashes, the movie gradually gained popularity in subsequent years. The unique blend of modern and 1980’s animation made with more than 100,000 hand-drawn frames soon became a fan favorite. Today, ‘Redline’ is considered a cult classic in the anime world, boasting an impressive 7.5/10 rating on IMDb.
How Redline Survived Against the Odds
Just as the central character of ‘Redline’, ‘Sweet’ JP, survives a bomb blast and gets a chance to partake in the race of his life, the movie too survived its initial failure. Despite being almost sunk by ‘Redline’s’ massive loss, Madhouse was rescued and bought by Nippon TV, which now holds 95% of the studio’s shares. The remaining 5% is held by Sony Entertainment Pictures Japan.
Madhouse’s Recovery and Continued Success
Even though the movie caused a disastrous hit, Madhouse managed to keep its head above water. The success of other anime titles, including One Punch Man, Overlord, and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, have contributed to the studio’s recovery. The studio remains resilient despite the significant setback from ‘Redline’.
A Bright Future Ahead
Times may have been tough for Madhouse following the release of ‘Redline’; however, the studio has proved its resilience time and time again. It continues to produce hits, earning a significant place in the hearts of anime lovers worldwide. The iconic ‘Redline’ movie, initially a flop, is now regarded as one of the cult classics, a testament to this studio’s incredible journey.
For those interested in watching ‘Redline’, the movie is currently available on Amazon Prime Video. This showcase of Madhouse’s work was a risk, a risk which, despite its initial failure, ultimately paid off in the form of a treasured piece of anime history.
In conclusion, the tale of Madhouse and ‘Redline’ serves as a reminder that initial failures can lead to subsequent success. The studio’s resilience and commitment to quality stand as a beacon within a rapidly evolving anime industry. Who knows? Perhaps the next ‘Redline’ is already in the works, ready to surprise us all over again.
