Kaibutsu-kun (1968 TV Series)

Aired: 1968 - 1969

The first TV anime (monochrome) co-produced by Tokyo Movie and Studio Zero. Based on the manga by Fujiko Fujio (Fujiko Fujio A / Motoo Abiko) serialized in Shonen Gahosha's Shonen Gaho and Weekly Shonen King. Broadcast in a 15-minute, two-segments-per-episode format for a total of 48 episodes (96 segments) on the TBS network from April 21, 1968 to March 23, 1969. The series follows Kaibutsu-kun (voiced by Fuyumi Shiraishi), prince of Monster Land, who comes to the human world for training and engages in slapstick adventures alongside his attendants Dracula, Wolfman, and Frankenstein. As one of Fujiko Fujio A's signature works, the series became the origin point of a long-loved franchise that continued with the 1980 color remake, the 1990 version, and the 2010 live-action drama. Directed by Masaaki Osumi (later known as Osamu Dezaki), with the theme song composed by Kyohei Tsutsumi, it is recognized as a notable early TV anime music work. (C)Fujiko Studio / Shonen Gahosha / Tokyo Movie / Studio Zero