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Backflip!!
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Backflip!!
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Backflip!!
Anime key visual
バクテン!!
GenreSports (rhythmic gymnastics)[1]
Manga
Illustrated byKei Sakuraba
Published byKodansha
MagazineDessert
Original runJanuary 22, 2021 – September 24, 2021
Volumes2
Anime television series
Directed bySeishirō Nagaya
Toshimasa Kuroyanagi
Written byToshizou Nemoto
Music byYuki Hayashi
StudioZexcs
Licensed by
Original networkFuji TV (Noitamina)
English network
Original run April 9, 2021 – June 25, 2021
Episodes12 (List of episodes)
Anime film
Directed byToshimasa Kuroyanagi
Written byToshizou Nemoto
Music byYuki Hayashi
StudioZexcs
Licensed byCrunchyroll
ReleasedJuly 2, 2022 (2022-07-02)
Runtime90 minutes

Backflip!! (バクテン!!, "Bakuten!!") is an original Japanese anime television series produced by Zexcs, directed by Seishirō Nagaya and Toshimasa Kuroyanagi and written by Toshizo Nemoto. The series aired from April to June 2021. A manga adaptation by Kei Sakuraba was serialized in Kodansha's Dessert manga magazine from January 22 to September 24, 2021.[2][3] An anime film premiered on July 2, 2022.

Story

[edit]

Shotaro Futaba loved sports, but was never good enough. But watching a group of gymnasts in the park and seeing them in a gymnastics tournament, he decides to join their school and become part of the gymnastic team. With new members, Shotaro and Ryoya Misato, the team aims for the upcoming Inter-High tournament.

Characters

[edit]

Sōshūkan High School

[edit]

Also known as Ao High School. Their men's rhythmic gymnastics team is attempting to perform at the Inter-High for the first time.

Shōtarō Futaba (双葉翔太郎, Futaba Shōtarō)

Voiced by: Shimba Tsuchiya[1]
The protagonist and a first year student. He played a number of sports before high school, but was always on the sidelines. After witnessing a performance of the Sōshūkan men's rhythmic gymnastic team at a tournament, he joins their club, even though he has no gymnastics experience. He is inspired by Misato and his senior teammates.

Ryōya Misato (美里良夜, Misato Ryōya)

Voiced by: Kaito Ishikawa[1]
A first year and the ace of his gymnastics team in middle school. He joined Sōshūkan because he was inspired by the coach's performance. He is an orphan who lived with his aunt. He is rather stoic, but he makes an effort to rely on his teammates. He is a major inspiration for Shōtarō.

Masamune Shichigahama (七ヶ浜政宗, Shichigahama Masamune)

Voiced by: Daisuke Ono[1]
A third year and the captain of the Sōshūkan men's rhythmic gymnastics team. He is enthusiastic and encouraging. He was very involved in recruiting members to raise the team to 6. His interests in gymnastics began after seeing Shūsaku's backflips. His family has a sasa kamaboko business. His rival is Takase.

Keisuke Tsukidate (築館敬助, Tsukidate Keisuke)

Voiced by: Takashi Kondō[1]
A third year and vice captain, an all rounder in gymnastics and a calm and collected type. He was inspired to join the team after seeing Shichigahama's backflip. He likes moss and plants. His family manages a shrine.

Nagayoshi Onagawa (女川ながよし, Onagawa Nagayoshi)

Voiced by: Hiro Shimono[1]
A third year and the ace of the Sōshūkan men's rhythmic gymnastics team. He joined the team after he got interested seeing Shichigahama's backflip. A running gag is him coming up with new nicknames for Shōtarō and Masato, which the two juniors always reject. He is an ardent fan of Masami Kudo, a member of the idol group Tan Tan Girls. His father is a fishmonger.

Kōtarō Watari (亘理光太郎, Watari Kōtarō)

Voiced by: Hiroshi Kamiya[1]
A second year. He joined the men's rhythmic gymnastics club after seeing his seniors perform. He acts tough, but he has a soft heart. He is a very big fan of yakuza movies. His family manages a ramen shop, and he's good at cooking.

Shūsaku Shida (志田周作, Shida Shūsaku)

Voiced by: Takahiro Sakurai[4]
The coach of the Sōshūkan men's rhythmic gymnastics club. He is the inspiration of the Sōshūkan men's rhythmic gymnastics club members. He was formerly the ace of Hakumei University, capable enough to make Men's Rhythmic Gymnastic become an Olympic event. He was arrogant, but after retiring from performing due to a leg injury, he became a patient individual. He often attributes his advice to his wife, though the gymnastics team has never met her.

Asawo Kurikoma (栗駒あさを, Kurikoma Asawo)

Voiced by: Ayane Sakura[5]
The manager of the club, she is also Shida's relative. She is quiet, but well integrated with the rest of the team. She is tech savvy, and uses videos and software to review practices and mimic choreography. She designs the team's costumes.

Hakumei University Affiliated High School

[edit]

Mashiro Tsukiyuki (月雪ましろ, Tsukiyuki Mashiro)

Voiced by: Ayumu Murase[6]
A first year prodigy. Similar to Futaba, he was in multiple clubs before a rhythmic gymnastics club, but he quit them because he found them boring. He started gymnastics after seeing Misato perform and stayed since Misato provides him good competition. He initially didn't have much interest in Futaba, but later becomes curious after seeing him perform. He is mostly aloof and playful, doing things at his own pace. He gets involved in games so much that he doesn't notice his seniors trying to contact him.

Tōru Takase (高瀬亨, Takase Tōru)

Voiced by: Katsuyuki Konishi[6]
A third year student and the captain of the team. He's been Shichigahama's rival since their first meeting. He considers Ao High to be worthy rivals.

Yōjirō Mutsu (陸奥洋二郎, Mutsu Yōjirō)

Voiced by: Kenichi Suzumura[6]
A third year student and the vice-captain of the team. He helps manage the captain's excessive emotions. Though he always stops Takase from scolding Mashiro, Mashiro is more scared of him. He is impressed by the performance of Ao high students and considers them worthy rivals.

Hideo Ōminato (大湊秀夫, Ōminato Hideo)

Voiced by: Tomokazu Sugita[6]
A second year student. He is a fan of Kazamaura Aki from Aomori Nebuta Dream and has a rivalry with Onagawa over what type of idols they like.

Kyōichi Ryūgamori (竜ヶ森恭一, Ryūgamori Kyōichi)

Voiced by: Soma Saito[6]
A second year student. He has a calm and aloof personality. He is good with plants and arranges flowers to look better and hold longer when he sees them. He shares a friendship with Tsukidate due to their common interest in plants.

Shunsuke Azuma (吾妻俊介, Azuma Shunsuke)

Voiced by: Daiki Yamashita[6]
A first year student. He is the loudest in the team and also a fan of yakuza movies, albeit preferring characters which get the girl and win in the end, as opposed to Watari's preferences.

Shūji Mabuchi (馬淵修司, Mabuchi Shūji)

Voiced by: Kenichirou Matsuda[7]
The coach of Hakumei Private High School and alumni of Hakumei University. He was captain of the team when Shida was on it. He believes that if Shida hadn't retired due to injury, he could have taken Men's Rhythmic Gymnastic to a level where it would have become a part of Olympics. He was also one of the few who lent a helping hand to Shida after his injury.

Other characters

[edit]

Ayumi Futaba (双葉亜由美, Futaba Ayumi)

Voiced by: Reina Ueda[8]

Production and release

[edit]

On November 4, 2020, Fuji TV announced the original anime television series, which is part of the "Zutto Ōen Project 2011 + 10...", commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.[1] The series is animated by Zexcs, directed by Seishirō Nagaya and Toshimasa Kuroyanagi and written by Toshizo Nemoto. Original character designs are provided by Robico, the author of My Little Monster, while Yūki Shibata adapts the designs for animation. Yuki Hayashi is composing the series' music. It aired in Fuji TV's Noitamina programming block from April 9 to June 25, 2021.[2] Centimillimental performed the series' opening theme song "Seishun no Enbu", while wacci performed the series' ending theme song "Anata ga Iru".[2][6] Crunchyroll streamed the series outside of Asia.[9]

After the conclusion of the anime series, an anime film was announced.[10] It premiered in Japan on July 2, 2022, with returning staff and cast.[11][12] Crunchyroll streamed the film outside of Japan, premiering May 11, 2023.[13]

Episode list

[edit]
No.Title [14][15]Directed by [a]Storyboarded by [a]Original release date [16]
1"I Want to Backflip!"
Transliteration: "Bakuten Shitai!" (Japanese: バク転したい！)		Toshimasa KuroyanagiToshimasa KuroyanagiApril 9, 2021 (2021-04-09)[b]
A middle schooler in baseball club, Shōtarō Futaba chances upon a group of boys holding a headstand. Following them into a gym, he encounters Men's Rhythmic Gymnastic club for the first time at a tournament and becomes a fan of the backflips performed by the athletes from Sōshūkan High School. He later decides to join the school. Though initially nervous since the genius Ryōya Misato announces that he will join the club, he later announces that he wants to join the club himself after performing the first backflip of his life. The other members are ecstatic to have a full team of six members.
2"I Want to Soar With You"
Transliteration: "Issho ni Tobitai!" (Japanese: 一緒に跳びたい！)		Seishirō NagayaSeishirō NagayaApril 16, 2021 (2021-04-16)
The coach suggests the first-years move to the dorm along with the rest of the teammates, but Misato refuses saying he needs to go home every evening. The next day, the boys jog over to Sekiou University gym to use the mat there. The coach suggests that they do the routine with all six members this year, but only if Shōtarō can backflip the entire length of the mat, giving him a week to practice. He assigns Misato to coach him. Misato shows him his own backflip after realizing that Shōtarō learns best by watching others perform. The last night of the 'practice' week, Misato returns to the dorm to coach Shōtarō more, where the seniors have made a makeshift mat for Shōtarō to practice on. The seniors all admit to having started Rhythmic Gymnastics since they were impressed by backflips. The next day, Shōtarō performs his backflip and gets approval from the coach to practice. After introducing themselves, Hakumei High shows off their performance to Sōshūkan High members, who are left totally speechless.
3"I want to camp!"
Transliteration: "Gasshuku Shitai!" (Japanese: 合宿したい！)		Yoshiyuki FujiwaraYoshiyuki FujiwaraApril 23, 2021 (2021-04-23)
Being new to the 6-people routine, the team is making a lot of mistakes. The coach decides that having a joint practice would be inspiring for the team and schedules one with the Hakumei High School. Shōtarō is still struggling with headstands. The rest of the team (minus Shōtarō, who is practicing his headstands and Misato, who is home) decides to go shopping to welcome the guests, where they chance upon Misato and end up meeting the captain and the vice-captain of their rival team. As Shōtarō continues his practice in the park, he gets interrupted by Mashiro, who is separated from his team and is playing tag with a bunch of kids. While initially mentioning that his headstand sucks, Mashiro makes Shōtarō join the game, and later shows him his own handstand. This inspired Shōtarō to improve his own performance. He later guides Mashiro to his school, where he discovers that Mashiro is a part of Hakumei High school, and the rest of his team is shocked by Mashiro calling Misato 'Misa-pon'.
4"We're All Rivals!"
Transliteration: "Raibaru nan da!" (Japanese: ライバルなんだ！)		Miwa SasakiMiwa SasakiApril 30, 2021 (2021-04-30)
While Mashiro is completely impressed by the sasa kamaboko, Takase shows off his team's discipline in the dorm. As both the coaches oversee the teams' practice, Kurikoma shows the Sōshūkan members that their coach Shida used to be a former top-class athlete in Rhythmic Gymnastic. After another round of performance, the Sōshūkan acknowledge their inferior performance. Shichigahama apologizes to Shida for wasting the opportunity, but after a pep talk from their coach later realizes that each member was focusing too much on syncing, whereas they should be more worried about their individual performances. Meanwhile, Takase and Mutsu convince the other members that Sōshūkan is a worthy team. They return and both teams gather for a welcoming first-year's party. All of the boys bond over hobbies and get to know each other. The next day, Sōshūkan performs again, which turns out to be far better than their previous one, making the team more confident.
5"I Want to Hide!"
Transliteration: "Kakuretai!" (Japanese: かくれたい！)		Hayato SakaiSeishirō NagayaMay 7, 2021 (2021-05-07)[c]
With time remaining after concluding practice, Mashiro suggests that the teams compete in game of Hide and Seek in the school late at night. The two captains end up being the seekers, with everyone else, including the coaches, hiding in the school. While the captains are unable to find even a single person, the members of the two teams end up bonding over their common interests, eventually arguing over them. Shōtarō is joined by Misato and later Mashiro, who happily reminisces over how he joined Men's Rhythmic Gymnastic club after being impressed looking at Misato perform. Meanwhile, Mabuchi, who is hiding with Shida and Kurikoma, laments Shida's injury which caused him to stop playing the sport. Throughout the game, the rest of the team gets captured by a shadowy figure. Finally,the captains, too, end up being captured by the security guard and brought to the guard room, where the boys are all already gathered, claiming they were brought there by the second security guard. However, the old guard who brought the captains there claims that he is the only guard present, which spooks everyone.
6"Enjoy!"
Transliteration: "Tanoshinde!" (Japanese: 楽しんで！)		Tetsuya Endō
Seishirō Nagaya		Yoshiyuki Fujiwara
Toshimasa Kuroyanagi		May 14, 2021 (2021-05-14)
The Ao High School team is set to perform at the prefecture tournament. They need to place 1st or 2nd to go through to regionals. Shotaro has doubts and feels he is not good enough to perform with the team, especially as he struggles to maintain form with his handstand. Coach Shida recognizes that Shotaro has no difficulty performing the handstand when practicing solo. The Ao High School team is last to perform, feeling uncertain about being able to reach a qualifying score with two teams placing high scores. As each team member leaves the warm-up area to enter the stage, Coach Shida tells them to enjoy themselves. He recognizes that Shotaro looks uncertain and encourages him that he has a gift, and that his earnestness alone is a gift. He tells Shotaro to enjoy being nervous. As they perform, Shotaro is able to hold his handstand. Onagawa makes a mistake that causes deductions, but the team's score earns them second place, securing advancement to the regional tournament.
7"We'll Make a Promise!"
Transliteration: "Yakusoku Shimasu!" (Japanese: 約束します！)		Ryōji MasuyamaRyōji MasuyamaMay 21, 2021 (2021-05-21)
8"I'll Look After You!"
Transliteration: "Osewa Shimasu!" (Japanese: お世話します！)		Kuniyasu NishinaSusumu MitsunakaMay 28, 2021 (2021-05-28)[d]
9"Be Needy!"
Transliteration: "Amaete yo!" (Japanese: 甘えてよ！)		Yoshiyuki FujiwaraYoshiyuki FujiwaraJune 4, 2021 (2021-06-04)
10"I Can't Stand It!"
Transliteration: "Gaman Dekinai!" (Japanese: 我慢出来ない！)		Miwa SasakiShinsaku SasakiJune 11, 2021 (2021-06-11)[d]
11"Give It Your All, Fight Hard"
Transliteration: "Zenryoku de, Omoikiri!" (Japanese: 全力で、思い切り！)		Seishirō NagayaSeishirō NagayaJune 18, 2021 (2021-06-18)
12"Tomorrow, Too!"
Transliteration: "Ashita mo!" (Japanese: 明日も！)		Kuniyasu Nishina
Toshimasa Kuroyanagi		Toshimasa KuroyanagiJune 25, 2021 (2021-06-25)

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Backflip!!

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Backflip!! (Japanese: バクテン!!, Hepburn: Bakuten!!) is an original Japanese anime television series that centers on the sport of men's , following protagonist Shōtarō Futaba as he discovers the discipline during his final summer of and pursues it at Sōshūkan Private High School (also known as Ao High). Produced by the animation studio , the 12-episode series aired on Fuji Television's programming block from April 9 to June 24, 2021, directed by Seishirō Nagaya and Toshimasa Kuroyanagi. It depicts Futaba's journey from a benchwarmer to a dedicated gymnast, highlighting his encounters with eccentric teammates, intense training, and competitions that test bonds and personal growth. The anime emphasizes the underrepresented world of boys' rhythmic gymnastics in Japan, showcasing dynamic performances with ball, ribbon, hoop, and clubs, while weaving in elements of drama, comedy, and sports tournament arcs. A sequel film, Backflip!! The Movie, was released in Japanese theaters on July 2, 2022, extending the story with new challenges for the team, and later streamed internationally on Crunchyroll starting May 11, 2023. The series received praise for its fluid animation of gymnastics sequences and its portrayal of male friendships and athletic passion.

Overview

Premise

Shōtarō Futaba, a third-year middle school student and baseball player, becomes captivated by men's rhythmic gymnastics after witnessing a national competition during his team's tournament. Inspired by the performers' grace and athleticism, he attempts and successfully executes his first backflip, igniting his passion for the sport. Determined to pursue it seriously, Futaba enrolls at Sōshūkan High School in Miyagi Prefecture, known for its established all-boys rhythmic gymnastics club, and joins as a novice member. The series centers on the club's efforts to rebuild and strengthen as a team, recruiting new members to form a complete six-person group for national competitions. Futaba's journey traces his evolution from an inexperienced enthusiast to a dedicated athlete, navigating intense training regimens, personal challenges, and the development of camaraderie among teammates. Rivalries with other schools heighten the stakes, fostering growth through competition and mutual support. In the narrative, for the boys involves both individual and group routines performed on a floor mat, emphasizing synchronized that blends ballet-like , acrobatic elements such as flips and balances, and tumbling, all set to music to showcase artistic expression and technical precision. The anime's stylized portrayal focuses on freehand performances without apparatuses, drawing from the Japanese tradition of men's while highlighting discipline, creativity, and teamwork.

Setting

The primary setting of Backflip!! is Iwanuma City in , , a coastal area significantly affected by the . The choice of this location ties into the broader "Zutto Ōen Project 2011 + 10..." initiative, which commemorates the disaster's tenth anniversary while promoting regional recovery and tourism in Miyagi, Iwate, and Fukushima prefectures through anime productions. Collaborations between the production and Iwanuma City, including promotional visuals featuring local landmarks like JR Iwanuma Station and the Abukuma River Bridge, underscore the series' role in revitalizing community interest in the region. At the heart of the story is the fictional Sōshūkan High School (also called Ao High School), a private institution in Iwanuma that emphasizes athletic programs, particularly its competitive men's club. This rural school environment contrasts with urban rival institutions, such as the more resourced Hakumei University Affiliated High School, highlighting themes of perseverance in less centralized areas. The school's training facilities and surroundings evoke a sense of communal rebuilding, reflecting Miyagi's post-disaster emphasis on youth sports as a pathway to resilience and local pride. The series also embeds the cultural context of men's rhythmic gymnastics, a niche Japanese-originated sport that combines , tumbling, and synchronized routines, often underrepresented compared to women's versions. Backflip!! contributes to its growing visibility in , aligning with local Miyagi initiatives like the "ONE FESTA 2021 feat. アニメ バクテン!!" event in the , which uses the to attract participants and audiences to youth programs. Through depictions of dedicated club practices and regional competitions, the setting reinforces themes of community solidarity and cultural preservation amid recovery efforts.

Characters

Sōshūkan High School

Sōshūkan High School, also known as Ao High, is the primary setting for the protagonist's journey, where serves as a hub for aspiring athletes blending enthusiasm with rigorous training. The core team features first-year Shōtarō Futaba, an honest and earnest newcomer inspired by Ao High's performance at the nationals, who joins as a novice but demonstrates rapid growth through his natural flexibility and prior experiences in sports like , soccer, and ; he specializes in dynamic, expressive routines that energize the group. Voiced by , Futaba's motivation stems from awe at the sport's artistry, driving his quick adaptation despite initial shyness. Complementing him is fellow first-year Ryōya Misato, the team's young ace and a former junior champion known for his stoic, reserved demeanor that keeps others at a distance, yet he is perceptive and dedicated to , often serving as a strict mentor to novices like Futaba. Voiced by , Misato's backstory includes an early start in the sport and a past injury that adds caution to his technical precision. The upperclassmen provide leadership and stability, starting with third-year captain Masamune Shichigahama, a passionate and devoted figure whose strong commitment to the club manifests in proactive guidance, though his teaching style can be vague; voiced by , he specializes in freehand exercises and shares childhood ties with teammates that foster deep bonds. His peers include Keisuke Tsukidate, a kind and level-headed all-rounder who balances the team's intensity with gentle support, voiced by , and third-year Nagayoshi Onagawa, the bubbly mood-maker who boosts morale through cheerfulness and teasing nicknames while excelling in balance and flexibility, voiced by . Second-year Kōtarō Watari, with an intimidating exterior from piercings and a short-tempered vibe, is caring and approachable with juniors, specializing in handstand holds; voiced by , his enthusiasm and cooking skills contribute to team cohesion. The club's dynamics thrive on members' diverse backgrounds, such as family-run businesses like shops, shrines, and markets, alongside returnees from other sports or those drawn from casual inspirations, which spark internal challenges like balancing personal hesitations with collective growth during formation and training sessions. These varied traits— from Misato's cool precision to Onagawa's levity—cultivate mutual support, enabling the team to evolve through shared ambitions and occasional rivalries with schools like Hakumei University Affiliated High School. The team is supported by manager Asao Kurikoma, a second-year voiced by , who handles logistics and uses her tech skills for of routines.

Hakumei University Affiliated High School

Hakumei University Affiliated High School, commonly referred to as Shiro High School, is a private institution in closely affiliated with Hakumei University, which supports its athletic programs through superior facilities and expert guidance. The school's boys' team stands as a national powerhouse, characterized by its highly disciplined training methods that emphasize technical precision, physical conditioning, and strategic teamwork honed over years of competitive experience at regional and national levels. This elite status positions the team as a formidable benchmark for emerging rivals, showcasing advanced routines that integrate power, flexibility, and synchronization to dominate competitions. The team is captained by third-year Tōru Takase, voiced by , whose commanding presence and detail-oriented leadership inspire a culture of relentless pursuit of excellence, often pressuring opponents with displays of synchronized group performances that highlight the team's cohesive strength. The vice-captain is third-year Yōjirō Mutsu, voiced by , known for his polite demeanor but strict enforcement of discipline. Other key members include first-year Mashiro Tsukiyuki, voiced by , a cheerful junior champion and direct rival to Futaba, and second-year Hideo Ōminato, voiced by , obsessed with details in routines. These figures embody the school's tradition of nurturing national-level athletes through intensive regimens. In the narrative, the Hakumei team functions as a pivotal rival to Sōshūkan High School, driving the protagonists' development by representing the pinnacle of competitive ; specific matchups, such as those between Futaba and Tsukiyuki in high-difficulty routines, underscore the intense external challenges that foster growth and resilience among the underdogs. Their national-level pedigree and unyielding discipline not only elevate the stakes of inter-school encounters but also illustrate the broader demands of elite athleticism in the sport.

Other characters

Shusaku Shida serves as the advisor and coach for Sōshūkan High School's boys' team, playing a pivotal role in promoting the sport among male students by emphasizing enjoyment and personal growth over mere competition. A native of , Shida is depicted as cheery and altruistic, often motivating his team through positive reinforcement and drawing inspiration from his wife's wisdom to guide members like Shichigahama during challenging times. His background includes a commitment to fostering a supportive environment, which helps the team overcome initial hurdles in their training and performances. Voiced by . Shūji Mabuchi is the coach of the rival Hakumei University Affiliated High School's boys' rhythmic gymnastics team, bringing a contrasting strict and passionate approach that adds competitive tension to the narrative. Hailing from , Mabuchi's intense training methods challenge the protagonists indirectly, serving as a benchmark for discipline while highlighting the diversity in coaching styles within boys' . As an old friend of Shida, he provides occasional insights into the broader gymnastics community, contributing to the story's exploration of rivalry and mutual respect. Voiced by Kenichirō Matsuda. Ayumi Futaba, the younger sister of Sōshūkan student Shōtarō Futaba, offers essential emotional support from her home in , where she attends her second year of junior high school. Spoiled yet affectionate, Ayumi maintains a close sibling bond with Shōtarō, frequently encouraging him through phone calls and visits that remind him of family roots amid the pressures of high school gymnastics. Voiced by . Her presence underscores the personal stakes for Shōtarō, providing a grounding influence that bolsters his resilience. Shōtarō's parents, Mimori and Yoshitaka Futaba, further exemplify familial backing by managing the family sasa business and offering subtle guidance drawn from their own experiences. Voiced by Mirei Kumagai and Shinya Takahashi, respectively. Mimori's homemade gyoza become a symbol of comfort for and, by extension, motivate Shōtarō during homesick moments, while Yoshitaka's steady presence reinforces themes of perseverance inherited from influences. Together, the Futaba family provides the emotional foundation that enables Shōtarō to pursue without isolation. Beyond immediate coaches and family, minor figures such as national competition judges appear sporadically to evaluate performances, ensuring fair play and highlighting technical standards in boys' without overshadowing the core teams. These officials contribute to the world-building by representing the structured competitive landscape, occasionally offering constructive feedback that influences training adjustments for peripheral rivals from secondary schools.

Production

Development

Backflip!! was conceived as an original project by studio to promote men's , a niche sport in that combines elements of artistic and . The series draws inspiration from real-life Japanese competitions, particularly those involving regional youth programs in , where the story is set in the city of Iwanuma. Development began in 2017 with an initial memo outlining the core theme of fostering cooperation amid individualism, tying into broader recovery efforts following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. As part of the "Zutto Oen Project 2011 + 10," commemorating the disaster's 10th anniversary, the aimed to highlight local promotion in the Tohoku region. The project was formally announced in November 2020 by Fuji TV's block. A key decision was selecting men's rhythmic gymnastics as the central sport to distinguish the series from more conventional anime genres like volleyball or soccer, allowing exploration of themes such as synchronicity and teamwork unique to group performances. Director Toshimasa Kuroyanagi oversaw the early conceptualization, ensuring the narrative captured the sport's artistic and athletic demands. The production team faced challenges in researching authentic gymnastics routines, given the scarcity of reference materials on men's rhythmic gymnastics. Efforts included interviews with high school athletes, consultations with experts like Fumiaki Mitsuda, and collaborations with real teams such as Yamada High School to replicate genuine performances. Balancing technical accuracy with broad audience appeal was another hurdle, addressed by focusing on relatable high school dynamics and emotional growth to attract viewers beyond sports enthusiasts.

Staff and animation

The television series Backflip!! was chiefly directed by Seishirō Nagaya, who oversaw the overall production, while Toshimasa Kuroyanagi handled episode direction for multiple installments, including key scenes. The series composition and scripting were led by Toshizō Nemoto, with additional script contributions from Kuroyanagi. Original character designs were created by , known for her work on , and adapted for animation by Yuka Shibata, who also served as chief alongside Eri Murota, Aya Nakanishi, and Mitsuru Chiba. The music was composed by Yūki Hayashi, a frequent collaborator on sports such as Haikyu!!, with additional composition by Kanako Hara. The voice cast featured prominent Japanese actors for the main characters, bringing distinct energy to the ensemble. Shōtarō Futaba was voiced by , Ryōya Misato by , Masamune Shichigahama by , Nagayoshi Onagawa by , Kōtarō Watari by , and Keisuke Tsukidate by . Supporting roles included Shūichi Mabuchi voiced by Kenichirō Matsuda and Tōru Takase by , enhancing the team's interpersonal dynamics. Produced by studio , the animation emphasized fluid and realistic depictions of men's through a hybrid approach integrating 2D hand-drawn elements with 3D CG models. technology was employed for the sequences, supervised by Junichi Higuchi and Sawami from Toei Zukun Lab, providing accurate reference data to capture the precision and dynamism of performances across all episodes. This technique, developed over a five-year period starting in 2016, allowed for seamless transitions between character acting in 2D and complex group routines in 3D, with smart camerawork and motifs like bird feathers underscoring the sport's grace and intensity. The prioritized expressive lines and vibrant colors to highlight emotional peaks during competitions, contributing to the series' immersive visual language.

Media

Television series

The television series adaptation of Backflip!! is an original produced by , which aired on Fuji Television's programming block from April 9, 2021, to June 25, 2021. It consists of 12 episodes, each approximately 22 minutes in length, broadcast weekly on Fridays at 00:55 JST. The series follows a standard television format, featuring self-contained episodes that advance the narrative of the Sōshūkan High School team, with brief references to key developments such as training montages and competitions. Internationally, it was licensed by for simulcast streaming outside , available with English subtitles and in additional languages including Spanish, French, and German. In Japan, home media releases include Blu-ray Disc Box sets distributed by , with Volume 1 covering episodes 1–4 released on June 30, 2021, and subsequent volumes following; limited editions feature bonus content such as color booklets and DVDs with extras.

Theatrical film

Eiga Bakuten!! (lit. "Backflip!! The Movie"), the theatrical of Backflip!!, premiered in Japanese theaters on July 2, 2022, under the direction of Toshimasa Kuroyanagi and with a runtime of 90 minutes. The film continues directly from the television series, depicting the aftermath of the Sōshūkan High School Club's performance at the national competition. It centers on the protagonists' , as they navigate emotional reflections, evolving relationships, and emerging aspirations beyond the immediate competitive pressures of the event. Produced by studio , the movie retained key staff from the series, including director Toshimasa Kuroyanagi, series composition by Toshizo Nemoto, character designs by Yuka Shibata, and music by Yuki Hayashi. Notable enhancements for the theatrical release included more elaborate in the rhythmic gymnastics sequences, featuring extended routines with heightened fluidity and visual depth to capitalize on the larger screen format. As a standalone production, the film resolves unresolved elements from the TV series through an original storyline, emphasizing closure and forward momentum for the characters without relying on episodic structure.

Episode list

The television series Backflip!! aired 12 episodes weekly from April 9 to June 25, 2021, on Fuji Television's programming block in .
No.English titleJapanese titleOriginal air dateDirectorSynopsis
1I Want to Backflip!Bakuten Shitai! (バク転したい！)April 9, 2021Toshimasa KuroyanagiAfter a life-changing encounter with men's rhythmic gymnastics, Shōtarō Futaba joins the team at Sōshūkan High School and meets a collection of colorful characters.
2I Want to Soar With YouIssho ni Tobitai! (一緒に跳びたい！)April 16, 2021Seishirō NagayaShōtarō moves into the dorm with the other members of the men's rhythmic gymnastics team but must pass a test to participate in their six-man routine.
3I Want to Camp!Gasshuku Shitai! (合宿したい！)April 23, 2021Yoshiyuki FujiwaraThe team prepares for a training camp with rival Hakumei University Affiliated High School, where Shōtarō encounters new challenges during practice.
4We're All Rivals!Rival Nanda! (ライバルなんだ！)April 30, 2021Miwa SasakiThe Sōshūkan team observes a performance by their rivals, prompting reflections on competition and teamwork under Coach Shidai's guidance.
5I Want to Hide!Kakuretai! (隠れたい！)May 7, 2021Hayato SakaiShōtarō struggles with self-doubt during team activities and seeks ways to overcome his insecurities within the group dynamic.
6Enjoy!Tanoshinde! (楽しんで！)May 14, 2021Seishirō Nagaya, Tetsuya EndōThe team focuses on finding joy in their training routines amid the pressures of upcoming competitions.
7We'll Make a Promise!Yakusoku Shimasu! (約束します！)May 21, 2021Ryōji MasuyamaBonds within the team strengthen as members make commitments to support each other in their gymnastic pursuits.
8I'll Look After You!Osewa Shimasu! (お世話します！)May 28, 2021Kuniyasu NishinaSenior members take on mentoring roles to help newer teammates adjust to the demands of rhythmic gymnastics.
9Be Needy!Amaete yo! (甘えてよ！)June 4, 2021Yoshiyuki FujiwaraThe episode explores the importance of relying on teammates during intense practice sessions.
10I Can't Stand It!Gaman Dekinai! (我慢できない！)June 11, 2021Miwa SasakiFrustrations build as the team pushes their limits in preparation for major events.
11Give It Your All, Fight HardZenryoku de, Omoikiri! (全力で、思い切り！)June 18, 2021Seishirō NagayaThe Sōshūkan team rallies with full effort and determination ahead of a key tournament.
12Tomorrow, Too!Ashita mo! (明日も！)June 25, 2021Kuniyasu Nishina, Toshimasa KuroyanagiReflections on growth and future aspirations conclude the team's journey in the season.

Music

Opening and ending themes

The television series features the opening theme "Seishun no Enbu" (Performance of Youth) performed by the band Centimillimental. Released as a single on May 26, 2021, the song's lyrics emphasize themes of youthful perseverance, emotional highs and lows, and the dynamic energy of performance, aligning with the series' focus on aspiring acrobats overcoming challenges. The ending theme is "Anata ga Iru" (You Are Here) by the musical group wacci, issued as a single on May 19, 2021. Its lyrics center on companionship and mutual support, reflecting the bonds formed among team members during intense training and competitions. These themes play over key sequences, such as opening montages depicting rigorous practice and ending credits showcasing character reflections post-performance. For the theatrical film released on July 2, 2022, wacci returns with the theme song "Bokura no Ippo" (Our Single Step), released as a single on June 15, 2022. The track's evoke collective progress and forward momentum, tying into the narrative of synchronized team efforts in high-stakes . It accompanies pivotal scenes of group routines and personal breakthroughs, underscoring the film's emphasis on unity under pressure.

Original soundtrack

The original soundtrack for Backflip!! was composed by Yūki Hayashi, a Japanese composer renowned for his dynamic scores in sports-themed , including Haikyuu!!. A former rhythmic who created much of Japan's competitive gymnastics accompaniment music, Hayashi's work often blends orchestral swells with rock and electronic elements to capture the physical intensity and emotional depth of athletic performance. The television series' original soundtrack album, released on June 16, 2021, by Fabtone Records, spans two discs with 44 tracks totaling 84:49. It features recurring motifs that heighten the series' themes, such as the uplifting "Blue Feather" as the central theme evoking aspiration and flight in routines, the pulse-racing "Massive Impact" building tension during high-stakes competitions, and the tender "Sparkle" underscoring moments of team bonding and personal triumph. A separate soundtrack for the theatrical film was released on July 6, 2022, also by Fabtone, containing 28 tracks that expand on the series' musical palette with edited versions tailored to the movie's narrative arcs. Notable inclusions revisit core motifs like "Sparkle ~Movie Edit Ver." and "Massive Impact ~Movie Edit Ver.," integrating them to amplify emotional and dramatic peaks in the film's extended story. All music was composed and produced by to synchronize with the animation's fluid, energetic depictions of .

Reception

Critical response

Backflip!! received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its innovative focus on men's and high-quality , though some noted familiar narrative tropes. On , the series holds an average rating of 7.2 out of 10 based on user votes, reflecting appreciation for its motivational themes and visual appeal. awarded it an A- grade in a 2022 review, highlighting the "stunningly gorgeous that uses strengths of both 2D and 3D" to depict fluid, uninterrupted routines that emphasize weight and motion. users scored it 7.48 out of 10, commending the fresh sport choice as a departure from common athletics like or . Critics lauded the of sequences as a standout feature, with the review describing how the series captures the "visually striking" synchronization of bodies in this niche sport, requiring no prior technical knowledge from viewers. The character chemistry was also a highlight, featuring "appealing character designs and strong cast chemistry" with exaggerated personalities that foster engaging team dynamics. This emphasis on boys' was seen as a refreshing promotion of diversity in sports , blending emotional growth with spectacular visuals. However, some reviews pointed to criticisms in storytelling and pacing. The critique noted a "boilerplate plot" that follows typical sports formulas without surprises, particularly in early episodes where the protagonist's rapid progression as a beginner felt rushed. Rival arcs were described as having limited depth, with not every character, such as rival Tsukidate, receiving adequate development or attention amid the ensemble focus. Despite these issues, the overall visual spectacle and thematic promotion of perseverance were frequently cited as redeeming qualities in assessments.

Popularity and legacy

Backflip!! garnered a dedicated following among enthusiasts, particularly within the genre, upon its premiere in spring 2021. Streamed internationally on shortly after its broadcast in , the series quickly emerged as a fan favorite for its fresh take on , with viewers praising its energetic animation and character-driven storytelling. On , it holds a score of 7.48 out of 10, based on ratings from over 41,000 users, reflecting solid appreciation for its motivational themes and underrepresented sport. Fan discussions highlighted its appeal as an uplifting underdog story, often comparing it favorably to more mainstream while noting its unique focus on boys' rhythmic gymnastics. The series' cultural impact extended beyond entertainment, contributing to greater visibility for men's in and abroad. By showcasing the sport's athleticism and teamwork through the lens of high school life in , Backflip!! helped inspire interest among younger audiences, aligning with broader efforts to promote niche athletic disciplines. This diversification enriched the sports genre, which had previously emphasized team sports like and , introducing a more artistic and synchronized form of competition to global viewers, though often compared to Haikyuu!! but distinguished by its originality in promoting an underrepresented discipline. Its enduring fanbase continues to engage in online retrospectives, cementing its status as a memorable entry in the genre. The 2022 theatrical film, Eiga Bakuten!!, extended the series' narrative by following the team's national competition arc, maintaining the positive reception and further solidifying its legacy among fans. Released on July 2, 2022, the movie reinforced the original's themes of perseverance and camaraderie, with returning voice cast and staff enhancing its appeal. In 2023, a stage adaptation was announced, further expanding the franchise's reach. Despite no announcement for a second television season as of 2025, the franchise's influence persists through merchandise, adaptations, and occasional fan events, underscoring its role in broadening anime's portrayal of athletic diversity.

References

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