While not as widely recognized as Dragon Ball or Dr. Slump, Sand Land remains a significant part of Akira Toriyama’s legacy, serving as his final serialized manga. The recent release of the Sand Land anime on Disney+ and Hulu marks one of Toriyama’s last creative endeavors, with the series comprising a re-edited version of the 2023 feature film alongside an original story crafted by Toriyama himself in the seventh episode. Despite this, the series is a must-watch, boasting stellar adaptation, breathtaking 3D animation, expansive world-building, and nuanced themes that underpin an exhilarating post-apocalyptic journey reminiscent of Toriyama’s signature style.
Set in a world plagued by warfare and environmental devastation, where water is scarce and humans coexist with demons, Sand Land follows Rao, a seasoned sheriff determined to restore order to his village amid the tyrannical rule of a greedy king. When Rao embarks on a quest to locate a mythical spring, he becomes entangled in a web of intrigue that could potentially avert a looming conflict between humans and demons.
Although the charismatic purple demon Prince Beelzebub may initially steal the spotlight, Sand Land primarily revolves around Rao’s personal journey of redemption. Delving into Rao’s past as a former military commander haunted by his involvement in past atrocities, the series explores themes of trauma, morality, and the consequences of war with depth and nuance. Despite its lighthearted tone and comedic elements, Sand Land offers a profound exploration of complex issues, resonating with fans of all ages.
The series excels in its use of 3D animation, delivering visually stunning fight sequences and dynamic character designs that showcase Toriyama’s boundless creativity. Additionally, the attention to detail in depicting mechanical designs, particularly the tank that serves as a pivotal element in the story, pays homage to Toriyama’s iconic artwork.
While the first six episodes largely mirror the plot of the 2023 film, viewers should not overlook the seventh episode, which introduces a brand-new narrative arc penned by Toriyama himself. Featuring captivating character designs, inventive world-building, and expanded lore, this arc sets the stage for what could be Toriyama’s final masterpiece.
In conclusion, Sand Land is a masterfully crafted post-apocalyptic saga that combines breathtaking animation with a compelling story of redemption, making it a standout addition to Akira Toriyama’s illustrious body of work. Despite its origins as a movie adaptation, the series offers fresh insights and promises an exciting new chapter in the Sand Land universe.
