The genre-fusing anime Cowboy Bebop has seen its fair share of praise over the last two decades, and now Netflix’s thrilling live-action series aims to expand its reach. This brand new ambitious adaptation reintroduces (or introduces) beloved characters like Spike Spiegel, Faye Valentine, Jet Black, and more, in a valiant effort to stay true to its inspiration - but pursue originality through unexpected and well-paced deviations.

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With the series set to release on November 19th and potential viewers can binge-watch in its entirety, there’s plenty of content that indicates Cowboy Bebop is an extraordinarily ambitious title worth watching. With its striking visuals and fidelity to its source material, the series is sure to appeal to longtime Bebop fans as well as viewers new to the exploits of Spike, Ein, and the rest of the motley crew.

Space Cowboy Aesthetic

The characters pose in the opening credits for the live action Cowboy Bebop

It's nearly impossible to reference the source material of the new series without acknowledging the profound visual appeal of the anime. The new series takes note of that importance and still finds its own particular style, operating between a neon-cityscape and a film noir lens.

Because of the series' futuristic space backdrop, there's a clear delicacy that the new series has to heed, but the majority of the special effects and overall ambiance pays attention to every slight detail - suggesting that there's promise for the future. The series recurring depiction of various planets and atmospheres further backs the notion that Cowboy Bebop emulates the anime's aesthetic appeal, so there's plenty to enjoy for those vying for a respectful, (yet reimagined) Cowboy Bebop.

John Cho

John Cho as Spike Spiegel walking and smiling in Netflix's Cowboy Bebop.

Veteran actor John Cho has starred in several acclaimed projects, and the role requires immense focus as Cowboy Bebop’s central character. That being said, if anyone is going to surprise people with their role, it's certainly Cho.

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From his first almost absent-minded introductory shot to the hints at an emotional exploration of the past, Cho perfectly embodies the relaxed cool-guy demeanor of bounty hunter Spike Spiegel. Naturally, the role features elaborate action sequences and stunts, which Cho has also gone above and beyond to embrace in the ambitious project. Everything including his wardrobe, hair, and line delivery is giving fans the unique Spike factor that has a magnetic appeal for this particular adaptation. So... how can there not be an element of intrigue?

Julia's Ambiguity

Split image of the Netflix version of Julia and the anime version of Julia in Cowboy Bebop.

Julia's complex history with protagonist Spike and antagonist Vicious is a crucial character arc in Cowboy Bebop for all involved.  Julia has always been known as an elusive character who is more often than not explained through the eyes of other characters, but the Netflix series goes beyond that ploy and introduces greater depth.

Julia’s inclusion in the new series dives even deeper into a film-noir stylization, bringing the trio’s connective story to the forefront (with a twist). Keeping Julia entwined in the fray of this particular story makes perfect sense, because her loyalties have always come into question to both Spike and Vicious. That being said, the mystery she brings is important to the evolution of Cowboy Bebop's atmospheric noir narrative. The series also has a chance to change up the pace by adding another perspective in this adaptation, which is yet another potential draw for new viewers but still appealing to long-time fans. 

Jet Appears Most True To His Anime Character

Jet kneels on a street in Netflix's Cowboy Bebop.

Jet Black has always been the voice of reason in Cowboy Bebop, and without the Bebop captain, there would be no structure. Now, after 10 episodes of the live-action title and plenty of time in the spotlight, star Mustafa Shakir has already managed to cement himself as an excellent Jet.

Shakir's screentime has incorporated the character's reputable nagging, and the qualities fans loved from original English voice actor Beau Billingslea who had some of the best quotes in Cowboy Bebop. Even in his first few moments, it's very apparent that Shakir covers the bases as being a character with endearing, well-rounded wisdom. Like the anime version, the actor immediately creates a reliable, strong presence and sounds like the fatherly figure that Bebop fans cherish. As far as the Netflix series is concerned, Shakir provides nothing short of excellence on Cowboy Bebop.

Vicious Vs. Spike

Alex Hassell and John Cho point guns at each other in Cowboy Bebop

In 26 episodes, the balletic battle between Spike and Vicious from "Ballad of Fallen Angels" happens to be one of the most celebrated, and the series boldly pursues a vibrant shot-for-shot moment to replicate the epic clash.

The classic image of the two at a standstill in front of a stained glass window is present in the 10 episode run, and even though it's a reimagining, this episode lives up to the hype. Furthermore, the aftermath of the scene is essential to the story of Spike, Vicious, and Julia, as one of the most artistic and revered Cowboy Bebop scenes that have a newly refined prospect of tension. The series didn't become one of the most beloved anime titles of the '90s without a few unforgettable high-stakes moments, and the new interpretation is prepared to carry that weight.

Faye's Rebellious Nature

Faye points a gun in Netflix's Cowboy Bebop.

Faye Valentine is the resident rebel of Cowboy Bebop, often clashing with her crewmates like family. Luckily, the new live-action version doesn't drastically change her tough and cynical personality but also showcases the character's well-hidden heart.

Daniella Pineda's current on-screen reveals appears most familiar to her anime origin, with a few references to her dual pursuit of money and answers. The character's on-brand wit and ability to make her opponents underestimate her is such a necessary asset to becoming one of the greatest anime female protagonists, and the direct nods to that personality in the new adaptation are entirely encouraging. It's just too difficult to not appreciate her importance, so merging a source-material-inspired Faye with an original interpretation is something viewers can enjoy.

Yoko Kanno Returns

Spike with his legs up on a table on the Cowboy Bebop soundtrack vinyl.

The one and only composer Yoko Kanno was the one thing that fans practically demanded upon the news of a live-action Cowboy Bebop, and Netflix made sure to follow through by hiring her to compose the show's score.

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Kanno's ability to fuse jazz, classical, and blues in her time as a composer for the anime is often perceived as one of the most timeless facets of Cowboy Bebop, making this return significant for fans of the decorated artist. The new series pulls directly from tracks that have become favorites, but she still integrates new work into the fray which means people can expect a classic Cowboy Bebop sound with a fresh twist. 

Ein!

Faye & Ein ride in a spaceship in Cowboy Bebop.

It's hard to fathom a possible Cowboy Bebop without one very special character that many acknowledge as the heart and soul of the anime - the brilliant and caring Corgi, Ein. The lovable canine was actually the only character from Netflix's Cowboy Bebop to earn their own promotional video, and Ein's role will absolutely pull at the heartstrings.

The new crew of the Bebop has never been known to be the biggest fan of animals prior to Ein's addition, but even his inclusion softened the hearts of every viewer and character that came into contact with the Bebop's accidental mascot. Seeing Ein take on his rightful place as the star of Cowboy Bebop should be enough to get many on board with this live-action adaptation. That, and a nice little Ein surprise at the end of the season will likely have everyone talking. 

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