20 Years Later, a 10/10 Action Cult-Classic Is Making a Comeback on Digital Streaming

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A beloved action series from the early 2000s, Black Lagoon, is returning to streaming after a long hiatus. While many anime shows now aim for a global audience, Black Lagoon uniquely blended Japanese animation with a distinctly American sensibility. Though it may not be the most well-known anime, those who’ve seen it remember its memorable characters and action-packed style inspired by director Quentin Tarantino. Even after two decades, the show still has a dedicated and passionate fanbase.

You can now buy Black Lagoon digitally on platforms like iTunes. Twenty years after its initial release, the popular anime is seeing a resurgence in viewers. Currently, it’s the 13th most-watched series on iTunes. The anime is adapted from the manga series of the same name, created by Rei Hiroe, and was originally produced by Madhouse in 2006.

The story centers on Rokuro Okajima, a stressed and shy office worker who gets caught up in a dangerous situation when he’s kidnapped by a group of pirate mercenaries during a company trip. When his company won’t pay the ransom, Rokuro makes a surprising decision and joins them, becoming part of the Lagoon Company. From there, it’s a whirlwind of constant action. To give you an idea of how intense it is, one scene involves the Lagoon Company driving a boat off a ramp and into the air to destroy a helicopter! It’s a truly unique, exciting, and beloved series. The official description of the show reads:

Rokuro Okajima, a shy office worker, finds his life completely changed during a business trip to Southeast Asia. After pirates hijack his ship and take him hostage, he ends up joining their crew – the ruthless and unpredictable group known as the Black Lagoon Company. Alongside the dangerous Revy, the leader Dutch, and the tech expert Benny, Rock surprisingly becomes their negotiator and accountant, handling the finances for their illegal activities like gun running, drug dealing, and kidnapping. Life with Black Lagoon is a constant whirlwind of intense gun battles, close combat, and dangerous sea confrontations.

‘Black Lagoon’ Is a Fan Favorite Action Series


Crunchyroll

While Black Lagoon isn’t as widely popular as mainstream hits like Naruto or Jujutsu Kaisen, or even other anime for adults like Vinland Saga, it’s become a beloved cult classic. Fans absolutely love the show, even though it doesn’t often receive attention from professional critics.

Viewers on Rotten Tomatoes gave the series a high score of 89%, and it’s equally well-regarded on MyAnimeList with a rating of 8.03. Many fans praise its originality, with one MyAnimeList user calling it “refreshing.” Another described Black Lagoon as a thrilling and surprisingly intelligent show.

‘Black Lagoon’ is a Great First Anime for Action Fans


Crunchyroll

If you’re curious about anime and where to begin, Black Lagoon is an excellent choice, as long as you don’t mind some intense action and violence. Unlike some anime, it avoids common tropes and feels more like a fast-paced Hollywood action movie, but animated. You likely won’t be disappointed if you give it a try.

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2026-02-07 18:32