Tetsuwan Atom (1963 TV Series)

Aired: 1963 - 1966

A TV anime produced by Mushi Production. Based on Osamu Tezuka's manga serialized in Kobunsha's Shonen magazine (1952-1968). Broadcast in 193 monochrome episodes on the Fuji TV network from January 1, 1963 to December 31, 1966. In the 21st century, Atom, a boy-shaped robot with human emotions, fights evil and seeks coexistence between humans and robots in this timeless SF juvenile work. Powered by atomic energy with 100,000 horsepower and seven mighty abilities, Atom is raised by Dr. Ochanomizu and confronts numerous incidents to protect Earth's peace. As the flagship work of Mushi Production, founded by Osamu Tezuka with his private funds, it is Japan's first 30-minute continuous TV anime series. It established the prototype for all subsequent Japanese TV anime, including the establishment of limited animation techniques, the introduction of character merchandising, and the standardization of voice acting and music staff for TV anime. Multiple remakes have been produced, including the 1980 color version, the 2003 Fuji TV version, and the 2009 Imagi theatrical film. (C)Tezuka Productions