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Noitamina
NetworkFuji TV
Launched
April 14, 2005; 20 years ago (2005-04-14)
Division ofFNS/FNN
Country of originJapan
FormatAnime
Running timeFridays 23:30 - 24:00 JST
Original languageJapanese
Official websiteOfficial website

Noitamina (ノイタミナ; stylized noitaminA, "Animation" written backwards) is a Japanese late-night anime programming block produced by Fuji Television, which launched in April 2005, and currently airs on Friday nights from 23:30 to 24:00 JST (effectively Friday nights from 11:30 p.m. to Saturday midnight JST). All anime production under the block are joint-venue by Fuji TV, Dentsu, and usually Sony Music Entertainment Japan (or through its subsidiary Aniplex).

History

[edit]

The programming block was launched in April 2005 as a half-hour block, with the intention of expanding the target audience beyond the typical young male demographic, and airs every Thursday nights from 24:45 to 25:15 JST (effectively Friday mornings from 12:45 to 1:15 a.m. JST).[1]

The timeslot was expanded from a half-hour to a full hour in 2010, and aired until 25:45 JST (effectively Saturday mornings at 1:45 JST), and temporarily returned to the half-hour timeslot in 2015 due to 5 films produced on the block, which was shown in Japanese theaters in the same year.[2] The only non-anime series featured is the live-action adaptation of Moyashimon: Tales of Agriculture, in 2010.[3]

On April 15, 2010, Fuji TV and Funimation announced an agreement that would allow the latter to simulcast series from the block in North America within an hour of the series' airings,[4] which was then transferred to Aniplex of America after Funimation was acquired by Sony, the owner of Aniplex, in 2017.[citation needed]

On March 17, 2016, Fuji TV signed a deal with Amazon to exclusively stream and simulcast series from the block through their Prime Instant Video service, which premiered with Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress.[5] The deal ceased in 2018, with The Promised Neverland being the first title to no longer be exclusive to Prime Video outside of Japan.[6]

On December 9, 2024, Fuji TV announced that the block would move to an earlier timeslot, which would mark the first time that the block aired on prime time, following a network timeslot rather than a local timeslot.[7] This was adjusted again on March 3, 2025, moving from Thursday nights/Friday mornings to Friday nights at 23:30 JST, after the new timeslot was first used to broadcast Dragon Ball Daima from October 2024 to February 2025.[8][9]

Titles

[edit]
No. Title Time Slot[n 1] Start date End date Eps. Studio Notes Ref.
1 Honey and Clover 0:35 April 14, 2005 September 26, 2005 24 J.C.Staff Based on the manga series by Chica Umino.
2 Paradise Kiss 0:35 October 13, 2005 December 29, 2005 12 Madhouse Based on the manga series by Ai Yazawa.
3 Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales 0:35 January 13, 2006 March 24, 2006 11 Toei Animation Original work based on Japanese classic tales.
4 Jyu-Oh-Sei 0:45 April 13, 2006 June 22, 2006 11 Bones Based on the manga series by Natsumi Itsuki.
5 Honey and Clover II 0:45 June 29, 2006 September 14, 2006 12 J.C.Staff Sequel to Honey and Clover.
6 Hataraki Man 0:45 October 12, 2006 December 21, 2006 11 Gallop Based on the manga series by Moyoco Anno.
7 Nodame Cantabile 0:45 January 11, 2007 June 28, 2007 23 J.C.Staff Based on the manga series by Tomoko Ninomiya.
8 Mononoke 0:45 July 12, 2007 September 27, 2007 12 Toei Animation Spin-off to Ayakashi.
9 Moyashimon: Tales of Agriculture 0:45 October 12, 2007 December 21, 2007 11 Shirogumi
Telecom Animation Film
Based on the manga series by Masayuki Ishikawa.
10 Hakaba Kitarō 0:45 January 10, 2008 March 20, 2008 11 Toei Animation Based on the manga series by Shigeru Mizuki.
11 Library War 0:45 April 10, 2008 June 26, 2008 12 Production I.G Based on the light novel series by Hiro Arikawa.
12 Antique Bakery 0:45 July 3, 2008 September 18, 2008 12 Nippon Animation
Shirogumi
Based on the manga series by Fumi Yoshinaga.
13 Nodame Cantabile: Paris Chapter 0:45 October 9, 2008 December 18, 2008 11 J.C.Staff Sequel to Nodame Cantabile.
14 Genji Monogatari Sennenki 0:45 January 15, 2009 March 26, 2009 11 TMS Entertainment
Tezuka Productions
Based on The Tale of Genji.
15 Eden of the East 0:45 April 9, 2009 June 18, 2009 11 Production I.G Original work.
16 Tokyo Magnitude 8.0 0:45 July 9, 2009 September 17, 2009 11 Bones
Kinema Citrus
Original work.
17 Kūchū Buranko 0:45 October 15, 2009 December 24, 2009 11 Toei Animation Based on the series of short stories by Hideo Okuda.
18 Nodame Cantabile: Finale 0:45 January 14, 2010 March 25, 2010 11 J.C.Staff Sequel to Nodame Cantabile: Paris Chapter.
19 House of Five Leaves 0:45 April 15, 2010 July 1, 2010 12 Manglobe Based on the manga series by Natsume Ono. [2][10]
20 The Tatami Galaxy 1:15
0:55 (Rerun)
April 22, 2010
April 8, 2022 (Rerun)
July 1, 2010
June 24, 2022 (Rerun)
11
12 (Rerun)
Madhouse Based on the novel series by Tomihiko Morimi. [2][11][12]
21 Moyashimon
(live-action)
0:45 July 8, 2010 September 16, 2010 11 Shirogumi Live-action adaptation of Moyashimon. [2][3]
22 Shiki 1:15 July 8, 2010 December 30, 2010 22 Daume Based on the novel series by Fuyumi Ono. [2][13][14]
23 Princess Jellyfish 0:45 October 14, 2010 December 30, 2010 11 Brain's Base Based on the manga series by Akiko Higashimura. [2][15]
24 Fractale 0:45 January 13, 2011 March 31, 2011 11 A-1 Pictures
Ordet
Original work. [16]
25 Wandering Son 1:15 January 13, 2011 March 31, 2011 11 AIC Based on the manga series by Takako Shimura. [17]
26 [C] 0:45 April 14, 2011 June 23, 2011 11 Tatsunoko Production Original work. [18][19]
27 Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day 1:15
[n 2]
April 14, 2011
July 11, 2013 (Rerun)
June 23, 2011
September 19, 2013 (Rerun)
11 A-1 Pictures Original work. [19][20]
28 Bunny Drop 0:45 July 7, 2011 September 15, 2011 11 Production I.G Based on the manga series by Yumi Unita. [21][22]
29 No. 6 1:15 July 7, 2011 September 15, 2011 11 Bones Based on the novel series by Atsuko Asano [21][22][23]
30 Un-Go 0:45 October 13, 2011 December 22, 2011 11 Bones Based loosely on the works of Ango Sakaguchi. [24]
31 Guilty Crown 1:15 October 13, 2011 March 22, 2012 22 Production I.G Original work. [25]
32 Thermae Romae 0:45 January 12, 2012 January 26, 2012 3 DLE Based on the manga series by Mari Yamazaki. [26]
33 Black Rock Shooter 0:45 February 2, 2012 March 22, 2012 8 Ordet
Sanzigen
Related to the OVA Black Rock Shooter. [27]
34 Kids on the Slope 0:45 April 12, 2012 June 28, 2012 12 MAPPA
Tezuka Productions
Based on the manga series by Yuki Kodama. [28]
35 Tsuritama 1:15
0:55[n 3](Rerun)
April 12, 2012
April 24, 2020 (Rerun)
June 28, 2012
July 3, 2020 (Rerun)
12 A-1 Pictures Original work. [29][30]
36 Moyashimon Returns 0:45 July 5, 2012 September 13, 2012 11 Shirogumi
Telecom Animation Film
Sequel to Moyashimon. [31]
37 Natsuyuki Rendezvous 1:15 July 5, 2012 September 13, 2012 11 Doga Kobo Based on the manga series by Haruka Kawachi. [32]
38 Psycho-Pass 0:45
1:20[n 4] (Rerun)
October 11, 2012
July 10, 2014 (Rerun)
March 21, 2013
September 25, 2014 (Rerun)
22
11 (Rerun)
Production I.G Original work. [33]
39 Robotics;Notes 1:15 October 11, 2012 March 21, 2013 22 Production I.G Based on the visual novel by 5pb. [34]
40 Katanagatari 0:45[n 5] April 11, 2013 June 27, 2013 12 White Fox Based on the light novel series by Nisio Isin.
41 Silver Spoon
(Season 1)
0:45 July 11, 2013 September 19, 2013 11 A-1 Pictures Based on the manga series by Hiromu Arakawa. [35]
42 Galilei Donna 0:50 October 10, 2013 December 19, 2013 11 A-1 Pictures Original work. [36]
43 Samurai Flamenco 1:20 October 10, 2013 March 27, 2014 22 Manglobe Original work. [37]
44 Silver Spoon
(Season 2)
0:50 January 9, 2014 March 27, 2014 11 A-1 Pictures Sequel to Silver Spoon. [35]
45 Ping Pong 0:50 April 10, 2014 June 19, 2014 11 Tatsunoko Production Based on the manga series by Taiyō Matsumoto.
46 Nanana's Buried Treasure 1:20 April 10, 2014 June 19, 2014 11 A-1 Pictures Based on the light novel series by Kazuma Ōtorino.
47 Terror in Resonance 0:50 July 10, 2014 September 25, 2014 11 MAPPA Original work. [38]
48 Psycho-Pass 2 0:50 October 9, 2014 December 18, 2014 11 Tatsunoko Production Sequel to Psycho-Pass.
49 Your Lie in April 1:15 October 9, 2014 March 19, 2015 22 A-1 Pictures Based on the manga series by Naoshi Arakawa.
50 Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend 0:50 January 8, 2015 March 26, 2015 13
[n 6]
A-1 Pictures Based on the light novel series by Fumiaki Maruto.
51 Punch Line 0:55[n 7] April 9, 2015 June 25, 2015 12 MAPPA Original work.
52 Rampo Kitan: Game of Laplace 0:55 July 2, 2015 September 17, 2015 11 Lerche Based on the works of Edogawa Ranpo.
53 The Perfect Insider 0:55 October 8, 2015 December 17, 2015 11 A-1 Pictures Based on the novel series by Hiroshi Mori.
54 Erased 0:55 January 7, 2016 March 24, 2016 12 A-1 Pictures Based on the manga series by Kei Sanbe.
55 Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress 0:55 April 7, 2016 June 30, 2016 12 Wit Studio Original work.
56 Battery 0:55 July 14, 2016 September 22, 2016 11 Zero-G Based on the novel series by Atsuko Asano. [39]
57 The Great Passage 0:55 October 13, 2016 December 23, 2016 11 Zexcs Based on the novel series by Shion Miura [40][41]
58 Scum's Wish 0:55 January 12, 2017 March 30, 2017 12 Lerche Based on the manga series by Mengo Yokoyari. [42][43]
59 Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend ♭ 0:55 April 13, 2017 June 23, 2017 12 A-1 Pictures Sequel to Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend [44][45]
60 Dive!! 0:55 July 6, 2017 September 21, 2017 12 Zero-G Based on the novel series by Eto Mori. [46]
61 Inuyashiki 0:55 October 12, 2017 December 22, 2017 11 MAPPA Based on the manga series by Hiroya Oku. [47]
62 After the Rain 0:55 January 12, 2018 March 29, 2018 12 Wit Studio Based on the manga series by Jun Mayuzuki. [48]
63 Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku 0:55 April 12, 2018 June 22, 2018 11 A-1 Pictures Based on the manga series by Fujita. [49]
64 Banana Fish 0:55 July 5, 2018 December 20, 2018 24 MAPPA Based on the manga series by Akimi Yoshida. [50]
65 The Promised Neverland
(Season 1)
0:55 January 11, 2019
October 9, 2020 (Rerun)
March 29, 2019
December 25, 2020 (Rerun)
12 CloverWorks Based on the manga series by Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu [51]
66 Sarazanmai 0:55 April 12, 2019 June 21, 2019 11 MAPPA
Lapin Track
Original work [52]
67 Given 0:55 July 12, 2019 September 20, 2019 11 Lerche Based on the manga series by Natsuki Kizu. [53]
68 Psycho-Pass 3 0:55 October 25, 2019 December 13, 2019 8 Production I.G Sequel to Psycho-Pass 2. [54]
69 Uchitama?! Have you seen my Tama? 0:55 January 10, 2020 March 20, 2020 11 MAPPA
Lapin Track
Based on the franchise by Sony Creative Products Inc. [55]
70 The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited[n 8] 0:55 April 10, 2020 September 25, 2020 11 CloverWorks Based on the novel series by Yasutaka Tsutsui. [56]
71 2.43: Seiin High School Boys Volleyball Team 0:55 January 8, 2021 March 26, 2021 12 David Production Based on the light novel series by Yukako Kabei. [57]
72 The Promised Neverland
(Season 2)
1:25 January 8, 2021 March 26, 2021 11 CloverWorks Sequel to The Promised Neverland. [58]
73 Backflip!! 0:55 April 9, 2021 June 25, 2021 12 Zexcs Original work. [59]
74 The Idaten Deities Know Only Peace 0:55 July 23, 2021 October 1, 2021 11 MAPPA Based on the manga series by Coolkyousinnjya and Amahara. [60]
75 Ranking of Kings 0:55 October 15, 2021 March 25, 2022 23 Wit Studio Based on the manga series by Sōsuke Tōka. [61]
76 Call of the Night (Season 1) 0:55 July 8, 2022 September 30, 2022 13 Liden Films Based on the manga series by Kotoyama. [62]
77 Urusei Yatsura (Season 1) 0:55 October 14, 2022 March 24, 2023 23 David Production Re-adaptation of the manga series by Rumiko Takahashi. [63]
78 Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage 0:55 April 14, 2023 June 16, 2023 10 Wit Studio Side story to Ranking of Kings. [64]
79 Rurouni Kenshin 0:55 July 7, 2023 December 15, 2023 24 Liden Films Re-adaptation of the manga series by Nobuhiro Watsuki. [65]
80 Urusei Yatsura (Season 2) 0:55 January 12, 2024 June 21, 2024 23 David Production Sequel to the re-adaptation of Urusei Yatsura. [66]
81 Senpai Is an Otokonoko 0:55 July 5, 2024 September 27, 2024 12 Project No.9 Based on the manga series by Pom. [67]
82 Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance (Season 2) 0:55 October 4, 2024 March 21, 2025 23 Liden Films Sequel to the re-adaptation of Rurouni Kenshin. [68]
83 The Dinner Table Detective 23:30[n 9] April 4, 2025 June 20, 2025 12 Madhouse Based on the novel series by Tokuya Higashigawa.
First series airing nationwide on FNS.
[7]
84 Call of the Night (Season 2) 23:30 July 4, 2025 September 19, 2025 12 Liden Films Sequel to Call of the Night. [69]
85 Shabake 23:30 October 3, 2025 December 26, 2025 13 Bandai Namco Pictures Based on the novel series by Megumi Hatakenaka. [70]
86 High School! Kimengumi 23:30 January 9, 2026 March 2026 TBA Seven Re-adaptation of the manga series by Motoei Shinzawa. [71]
87 The Elusive Samurai (Season 1)[n 10] 23:30 April 2026 June 2026 12 CloverWorks Based on the manga series by Yusei Matsui. Rebroadcast of the first season. [72]
88 The Elusive Samurai (Season 2) 23:30 July 2026 September 2026 TBA CloverWorks Sequel to The Elusive Samurai. [72]
89 Firefly Wedding 23:30 October 2026 TBA TBA David Production Based on the manga series by Oreco Tachibana. [73]

Films

[edit]
# Title Release date Studio Notes Ref.
1 Eden of the East Compilation: Air Communication September 26, 2009 Production I.G Re-editing of Eden of the East.
2 Eden of the East: The King of Eden November 28, 2009 Production I.G Sequel to Eden of the East.
3 Eden of the East: Paradise Lost March 13, 2010 Production I.G Sequel to Eden of the East: The King of Eden.
4 Un-Go episode:0 Inga chapter November 19, 2011 Bones Prequel to Un-Go.
5 Library War: The Wings of Revolution June 16, 2012 Production I.G Related to Library War.
6 Anohana the Movie: The Flower We Saw That Day August 31, 2013 A-1 Pictures Compilation of Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day with new epilogue.
7 Psycho-Pass: The Movie January 9, 2015 Production I.G Sequel to Psycho-Pass 2.
8 Typhoon Noruda June 5, 2015 Studio Colorido Original Work.
9 The Anthem of the Heart September 19, 2015 A-1 Pictures Original Work.
10 The Empire of Corpses October 2, 2015 Wit Studio Based on the novel series by Project Itoh.
11 Harmony November 13, 2015 Studio 4°C Based on the novel series by Project Itoh.
12 Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress: Gathering Light December 31, 2016 Wit Studio First part of the compilation of Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress.
13 Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress: Burning Life January 7, 2017 Wit Studio Second part of the compilation of Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress.
14 Genocidal Organ February 3, 2017 Manglobe and Geno Studio Based on the novel series by Project Itoh.
15 Night Is Short, Walk On Girl April 7, 2017 Science Saru Based on the novel series by Tomihiko Morimi.
16 Lu over the Wall May 19, 2017 Science Saru Original Work.
17 Penguin Highway August 17, 2018 Studio Colorido Based on the novel series by Tomihiko Morimi.
18 Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System - Case 1: Crime and Punishment January 25, 2019 Production I.G First movie of Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System trilogy and sequel to Psycho-Pass: The Movie.
19 Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System - Case 2: First Guardian February 15, 2019 Production I.G Second movie of Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System trilogy and prequel to Psycho-Pass.
20 Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System - Case 3: On the Other Side of Love and Hate March 8, 2019 Production I.G Third and final movie of Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System trilogy and sequel to Psycho-Pass: The Movie.
21 The Wonderland April 26, 2019 Signal.MD Based on the novel series by Sachiko Kashiwaba.
22 Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress: Unato Decisive Battle May 10, 2019 Wit Studio Sequel to Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress. [74]
23 Ride Your Wave June 21, 2019 Science Saru Original Work. [75]
24 Her Blue Sky October 11, 2019 CloverWorks Original Work. [76]
25 Saekano the Movie: Finale October 26, 2019 CloverWorks Sequel to Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend ♭. [77]
26 Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector March 27, 2020 Production I.G Sequel to Psycho-Pass 3.
27 Given August 22, 2020 Lerche Sequel to Given.
28 Backflip!! July 2, 2022 Zexcs Sequel to Backflip!!.
29 Senpai wa Otokonoko: Clear After the Rain February 14, 2025 Project No.9 Sequel to Senpai Is an Otokonoko.

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Noitamina (ノイタミナ, noitamina) is a Japanese late-night anime television programming block produced by , launched on April 14, 2005, to pioneer a new direction in TV by presenting series in a serialized format aimed at broadening the audience beyond the conventional young male demographic. The name "noitamina" is "" spelled backwards, reflecting its goal of overturning traditional conventions and making the medium more accessible to diverse viewers, including adults. Originally broadcast every Thursday from 00:45 to 1:15 JST as a 30-minute slot featuring one series per season, Noitamina expanded to a 60-minute slot in 2010 and later shifted to Friday nights, airing at 23:30 JST as of March 2025 with a focus on original productions and adaptations of non-traditional sources like josei and seinen works. This programming strategy has emphasized high-quality storytelling, emotional depth, and themes relevant to everyday life, often incorporating live-action elements or experimental formats to appeal to non-core fans. Over its two decades, Noitamina has become renowned for showcasing influential such as the inaugural , which explored college life and relationships; , a about classical musicians; , delving into grief and music; and more recent hits like Erased and , which blend suspense with psychological elements. In 2025, the block celebrated its 20th anniversary with a special exhibit at Fuji TV , highlighting its enduring impact on the industry by fostering innovative narratives that have garnered international acclaim and streaming partnerships, such as the exclusive deal with from 2016 to 2018.

Background

Concept and purpose

Noitamina, stylized as noitaminA, is a programming block on in , launched on April 14, 2005. The name "noitaminA" is "" spelled backwards, symbolizing an intent to reverse traditional production and viewing conventions by introducing fresh perspectives and unconventional narratives. Initially airing Thursdays from 12:45 a.m. to 1:15 a.m. JST, the block was designed to feature high-quality series that diverge from standard formats. The primary purpose of Noitamina was to expand the anime audience beyond the typical young male demographic, appealing to a broader range of viewers including women, adults, and those outside conventional circles. Fuji Television aimed to attract diverse groups by prioritizing original stories and adaptations of non-shōnen , such as josei titles, to foster innovative content that resonates with varied interests and lifestyles. This approach sought to elevate anime's cultural reach, demonstrating its potential for mature themes and sophisticated storytelling while maintaining accessibility for newcomers. Through Noitamina, Fuji TV committed to producing and broadcasting with high production values, often collaborating with renowned studios to explore experimental formats and genres like psychological dramas, sci-fi, and social commentaries. The block's goals included not only domestic audience growth but also international expansion, as evidenced by partnerships for global streaming to further promote 's versatility and appeal worldwide.

Target audience and themes

Noitamina was created to expand the anime viewership beyond the conventional young male demographic, aiming instead at a broader audience that includes women in their 20s and 30s who may have grown up with but prefer drama-like . This shift sought to incorporate narrative elements from Japanese serialized live-action dramas (renzoku dorama), such as emotional depth and relatable character arcs, to attract viewers accustomed to evening television formats. The block's themes prioritize mature, original content over typical genre tropes, focusing on psychological , societal critiques, and human relationships. Series often blend reality with fantasy in grounded settings, exploring topics like isolation, justice, and personal redemption—for instance, examines young adulthood and artistic pursuits, while March Comes in Like a Lion addresses and professional struggles in the world of . These narratives appeal to adult sensibilities by avoiding fan-service elements and emphasizing thematic complexity, thereby fostering a gateway for non-traditional fans. Over time, while maintaining its core focus on innovative , Noitamina has incorporated diverse genres including and mystery to sustain engagement across demographics, ensuring the block remains a platform for high-quality, thought-provoking .

History

Launch and early development (2005–2010)

Noitamina was launched by on April 14, 2005, as a programming block aimed at expanding the traditional audience beyond the typical young male demographic. The block's name, derived from "animation" spelled backwards, symbolized a fresh approach to the medium, incorporating techniques from live-action dramas to appeal to adults, particularly women in their 20s and 30s, with themes exploring romance, personal growth, and societal issues. Airing Thursdays from 00:45 to 01:15 JST, it debuted as a half-hour slot to test innovative and high production values in a timeslot previously underutilized for . The inaugural series, , an adaptation of Chica Umino's , premiered on the launch date and ran for 24 episodes until September 2005, focusing on the lives and relationships of art students and establishing Noitamina's emphasis on character-driven narratives. This was followed in October 2005 by , another josei adaptation by , which averaged viewer ratings around 3-4% and highlighted fashion and ambition among young adults. These early entries set a tone for mature, slice-of-life stories, differentiating the block from action-oriented elsewhere. In 2006 and 2007, the lineup diversified with series like , a dystopian sci-fi thriller that ran from April to November 2006 and garnered critical praise for its philosophical depth, alongside (2007), a about musicians that achieved peak ratings of approximately 6% and boosted the block's reputation for musical and artistic excellence. Throughout 2007–2009, Noitamina continued to experiment with genres and styles, airing visually striking works such as , a praised for its innovative and folklore-inspired horror, which aired from July to September 2007. Other notable entries included Hataraki Man (2006), addressing workplace dynamics for career women, and (2009), a mystery thriller that explored modern Japanese society through a high-concept plot. These series helped build a loyal viewership, with average ratings hovering between 3% and 5%, competitive for , and fostered international interest through licensing deals. The block's focus on original adaptations and auteur-driven projects, often from studios like and , solidified its role in elevating 's artistic profile during this period. By 2010, Noitamina marked a pivotal expansion, doubling its runtime to a full hour to accommodate more content and reflecting growing success. This change coincided with the premiere of the live-action adaptation of Moyashimon in July 2010, the block's first non-anime production, blending educational elements about with to further broaden its appeal. The period's output, totaling over 20 series, demonstrated Noitamina's evolution from a niche experiment to a cornerstone of Fuji TV's programming, influencing subsequent trends toward diverse demographics and narrative sophistication.

Expansion and shifts (2011–2018)

Following the expansion of its timeslot to one hour in spring 2010, Noitamina continued to broadcast two half-hour anime series per season through 2014, enabling a wider array of original and adaptive works aimed at mature audiences. This period saw the production of acclaimed series such as Psycho-Pass (2012–2013), which delved into themes of surveillance and morality in a dystopian society, and Parasyte -the maxim- (2014), an adaptation of Hitoshi Iwaaki's manga exploring human-alien coexistence. The dual-series format fostered experimentation with genres beyond traditional shōnen tropes, including science fiction and psychological drama, while maintaining the block's emphasis on high production values and narrative depth. In 2015, Noitamina underwent significant shifts, including the departure of longtime producer Kōji Yamamoto in April, who had overseen nearly all series since the block's inception and shaped its anti-otaku branding for broader appeal. Concurrently, the timeslot reverted to a single half-hour format starting that spring, allowing resources to pivot toward theatrical anime films. This included the ambitious Project Itoh, a trilogy adapting the late sci-fi novelist Keikaku Itoh's works: The Empire of Corpses (directed by Ryūhei Kitamura), Harmony (directed by Takashi Nakamura), and Genocidal Organ (directed by Akira Nishimura), all released in 2015 to honor Itoh's legacy of philosophical speculative fiction. The film initiative marked Noitamina's first major foray into cinema, prioritizing quality over quantity in television output. A key distribution shift occurred in 2016 when Fuji TV partnered with Amazon Prime Video for exclusive global streaming of Noitamina series, debuting with Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress in April. Under the agreement, new episodes streamed on the platform at 3:00 a.m. Fridays (JST) immediately following broadcast, limiting availability on other services like Crunchyroll and Funimation. The deal, which ran through 2018, affected series such as Re:Creators (2017) and Darling in the Franxx (2018), aiming to boost international reach but drawing criticism for reducing accessibility. By late 2018, with The Promised Neverland returning to multi-platform distribution, the exclusivity ended, signaling a return to more open streaming strategies.

Recent changes and continuity (2019–present)

Following the conclusion of Fuji TV's exclusive streaming partnership with Amazon Prime Video in 2018, the Noitamina block has maintained its focus on producing and broadcasting anime series with mature themes, targeting audiences beyond the traditional young male demographic. This period has seen a steady output of original works and adaptations, including the boys' love series Given in 2019, marking the block's first anime based on BL manga, and Sarazanmai in the same year, directed by Kunihiko Imaishi. Subsequent years featured diverse titles such as The Millionaire Detective Balance: UNLIMITED in 2020, which explored economic inequality through a buddy-cop narrative, and Wonder Egg Priority in 2021, addressing mental health and trauma in a surreal psychological framework. These selections underscore Noitamina's ongoing commitment to conceptual depth and innovative storytelling, often collaborating with studios like CloverWorks and Wit Studio. In 2020, Noitamina marked its 15th anniversary with official mascot illustrations by March Comes in Like a Lion creator Chica Umino, alongside a fan poll by the Tokyo Anime Award Festival (TAAF) to select favorite series from each five-year era, highlighting the block's enduring cultural impact. The programming schedule occasionally adapted for dual broadcasts, as in 2021 when the half-hour slot temporarily expanded to one hour for consecutive airings of The Promised Neverland season 2 and 2.43: Seiin Kōkō Danshi Volley-bu, allowing for bundled premieres of thematically linked series. Later entries like 86 in 2021, a sci-fi war drama, and Call of the Night in 2022, a supernatural romance, continued this tradition, with many titles distributed internationally via platforms such as Crunchyroll following the end of the Amazon exclusivity. Approaching its 20th anniversary in 2025, Noitamina implemented a significant broadcast adjustment, shifting from its late-night Thursday slot (00:45 JST) to Friday nights at 23:30 JST starting in April 2025, aiming to attract a broader viewership by airing earlier in the evening. This change coincided with anniversary festivities, including a special gallery exhibit at Fuji TV headquarters from February 2025, showcasing key artwork and memorabilia, and the "Fujiani 2025" live event in December 2024, which previewed upcoming projects. New series under the refreshed schedule include The Dinner Table Detective, a mystery adaptation premiering in April 2025, and season 2 in July 2025. An October 17, 2025, announcement revealed a of the High School! Kimengumi, slated for January 2026, signaling continued emphasis on unique revivals and original content to sustain the block's legacy.

Broadcast details

Time slot evolution

Noitamina debuted on April 14, 2005, as a half-hour programming block airing Thursdays from 00:45 to 01:15 JST on Fuji TV, filling a late-night slot previously dedicated to more conventional aimed at younger male audiences. This initial timeslot positioned it firmly in the midnight category, allowing for experimental content without competing directly with prime-time family programming. In April 2010, the block expanded to a full hour, running from 00:45 to 01:45 JST through fall 2014, enabling the simultaneous broadcast of two half-hour series per season to increase output and viewer engagement. The expansion reflected growing success and advertiser confidence, but by winter 2015, it reverted to a half-hour format starting around 00:55 JST, shifting focus toward higher-quality single productions and theatrical ventures. This adjustment maintained the late-night Thursday positioning, with occasional temporary hour-long extensions. The block's timeslot remained stable in the late-night Thursday/early Friday morning window—typically 00:55 to 01:25 JST—through the late and early , even as Fuji TV introduced complementary anime blocks like +Ultra on Wednesdays starting October 2018. However, on December 9, 2024, Fuji TV announced a significant shift for the block's 20th anniversary, moving it to at 23:00 JST (11:00 PM) starting April 2025—the first time Noitamina entered and changed days—to broaden accessibility and boost ratings amid network restructuring. This earlier slot was adjusted to 23:30 JST and implemented starting , 2025, shortening preceding variety programming by 10 minutes to accommodate the change; as of 2025, Noitamina airs from 23:30 to 24:00 JST.

Production and distribution

Noitamina anime series are produced through production committees, a standard practice in the Japanese anime industry where multiple stakeholders collaborate to fund, plan, and execute projects. Fuji Television serves as the lead broadcaster and key financier, typically partnering with advertising agency Dentsu Inc. and Sony Music Entertainment Japan's subsidiary for music, licensing, and merchandising rights. These committees select source material—often , light novels, or original concepts—and contract independent animation studios to handle direction, animation, voice acting, and post-production. Studios frequently involved include , , and Bones, allowing for diverse stylistic approaches while maintaining the block's emphasis on sophisticated narratives. For example, the 2014 series was produced by a committee comprising , Inc., Network, and Kansai Telecasting Corporation, with as the . This structure distributes financial risks and revenue shares from broadcasting, , and merchandise, enabling ambitious projects that might not fit mainstream slots. producers, such as former Noitamina overseer Kōji Yamamoto, play a central role in commissioning by evaluating pitches for alignment with the block's adult-oriented themes, often favoring experimental or genre-blending stories over typical shōnen adaptations. Distribution begins with domestic broadcast on Fuji Television's late-night Friday slot (formerly Thursdays), reaching viewers across via affiliates. Internationally, Noitamina series have been licensed for and on-demand streaming to expand global reach. In 2010, Entertainment (now part of ) acquired U.S. streaming and rights for the block's high-profile titles, marking an early push for simultaneous international availability. From 2016 to 2018, held exclusive worldwide streaming rights, with episodes premiering online shortly after TV airings to capture both Japanese and overseas audiences. Since 2019, distribution has shifted to per-series licensing across multiple platforms, reflecting the fragmented streaming landscape. Recent examples include Call of the Night Season 2 (July 2025), which streams globally on HIDIVE following its Fuji TV premiere, and Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance (2025), available on . This model allows broader accessibility but varies by title, often prioritizing platforms with strong catalogs to maximize viewership and merchandise tie-ins. Despite challenges like sponsor withdrawals in 2025 due to network scandals, Fuji TV continues prioritizing anime production, including Noitamina, to bolster profitability.

Anime series

Overview of series format

Noitamina anime series are typically structured as short-form television productions, adhering to a format inspired by Japanese TV dramas rather than traditional long-running anime serials. Most series consist of 11 or 12 episodes per season, allowing for concise storytelling that emphasizes character development and thematic depth over extended arcs. Each episode runs approximately 24 minutes, fitting within the block's half-hour time slot that includes commercials. This structure enables focused narratives, often adapting , novels, or original concepts targeted at mature audiences, with a blend of serialization and standalone elements to maintain weekly engagement. During certain periods, such as from to , the Noitamina slot expanded to a full hour, accommodating two consecutive half-hour series per season, which occasionally resulted in combined runs of 22 episodes for select productions. However, the core format remains centered on seasonal releases, with episodes aired weekly in the late-night timeframe, originally Thursdays at 00:45–1:45 JST (effectively Friday mornings). This episodic rhythm supports styles and diverse genres, from psychological thrillers like to slice-of-life dramas like , prioritizing artistic innovation within a compact framework. The series format also incorporates high production values, often involving renowned studios such as or , to align with Noitamina's goal of elevating as sophisticated programming. End credits and previews are streamlined to maximize time, and international distribution frequently follows shortly after broadcast, enhancing global accessibility. While exceptions exist—such as multi-season continuations or films— the 11–12 episode model establishes a benchmark for efficient, impactful storytelling in the block.

Chronological list of series

The Noitamina programming block has featured a diverse array of television series since its launch, with selections typically premiering in seasonal slots and focusing on , original stories, and adaptations targeting broader audiences. The following table provides a chronological overview of the TV series aired under the block, listed by premiere year and including the English title (with Japanese title in parentheses where commonly referenced), episode count, and premiere month for context. This list encompasses confirmed series up to late 2025, excluding films, OVAs, or non-anime content.
Premiere YearTitle (Episodes)Premiere Month
2005 (24 eps)April
2005 (12 eps)October
2005Ayakashi: Japanese Classic Horror (Ayakashi: Japanese Classic Horror) (11 eps)October
2006 (11 eps)April
2006Hataraki Man (11 eps)October
2006 (12 eps)October
2007 (23 eps)January
2007 (12 eps)July
2007Moyashimon: Tales of Agriculture (Moyashimon) (11 eps)October
2008 (11 eps)January
2008 (12 eps)April
2008 (12 eps)July
2008 (11 eps)October
2009 (11 eps)January
2009 (11 eps)April
2009Tokyo Magnitude 8.0 (11 eps)July
2009Kuuchuu Buranko (Welcome to Irabu's Office) (11 eps)October
2010 (11 eps)January
2010 (12 eps)April
2010 (11 eps)April
2010 (12 eps)January
2010 (11 eps)October
2010Shiki (22 eps)July
2011 (11 eps)January
2011 (12 eps)January
2011C: The Money of Soul and Possibility Control (C: Control) (11 eps)April
2011Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae o Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai) (11 eps)April
2011 (11 eps)July
2011 (11 eps)July
2011 (11 eps)October
2011 (22 eps)October
2012 (3 eps)January
2012 (8 eps)February
2012Tsuritama (12 eps)April
2012 (12 eps)April
2012 (11 eps)July
2012Moyashimon Returns (Moyashimon Returns) (12 eps)July
2012 (22 eps)October
2012 (22 eps)October
2013 (11 eps)July
2013Galilei Donna (10 eps)October
2013 (22 eps)October
2014 (11 eps)January
2014Ping Pong the Animation (Ping Pong) (11 eps)April
2014 (11 eps)July
2014 (11 eps)October
2014 (22 eps)October
2015 (11 eps)October
2016Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi) (12 eps)January
2016 (11 eps)January
2016 (12 eps)April
2016Battery the Animation (12 eps)July
2016Sweetness & Lightning (Amaama to Inazuma) (12 eps)July
2017 (12 eps)January
2018After the Rain (Koi wa Ameagari no You ni) (12 eps)January
2018Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku (Wotaku ni Koi wa Muzukashii) (11 eps)April
2018 (24 eps)July
2019 (12 eps)January
2019 (11 eps)April
2019Given (11 eps)July
2019 (8 eps)October
2020The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited (Fugou Keiji Balance: Unlimited) (11 eps)July
20212.43: Seiin High School Boys Volleyball Team (2.43 Seiin Koukou Danshi Volley-bu) (12 eps)January
2021Backflip!! (Bakuten!!) (12 eps)April
2021 (23 eps)October
2022 (ongoing as of 2025, multiple seasons)October
2022 (13 eps)July
2023 (24 eps)July
2024 (12 eps)July
2024 (23 eps)October
2025The Dinner Table Detective (Nazotoki wa Dinner no Ato de) (12 eps)April
2025 (12 eps)July
2025Shabake (13 eps)October

Films

Overview of film productions

Noitamina's venture into film productions began in with compilation films and sequels tied to its television series, such as the trilogy produced by . This marked an expansion from its television programming block to theatrical releases. Subsequent years saw a mix of sequels, originals, and adaptations, often emphasizing mature themes like and . In 2015, notable releases included Psycho-Pass: The Movie, a sequel to the acclaimed series that originally aired on the block in 2012–2013, directed by and produced by . This film explored themes of and in a dystopian society, grossing 850 million yen at the Japanese and reinforcing Noitamina's emphasis on mature, thought-provoking narratives. That same year, Noitamina sponsored two films of the trilogy, adapting the late novelist's works into animated features, each helmed by different directors and studios to showcase diverse animation styles. , directed by Ryūhei Kitamura at , examined reanimation and global politics; and , directed by at Studio 4°C, tackled bioethics and immortality. The trilogy concluded in 2017 with , directed by Shūkō Murase at , delving into themes of genocide and linguistics in a post-9/11 world. Announced at Fuji TV's Noitamina Line Up 2014 event, these films highlighted the block's commitment to adapting challenging literary works for cinema. By 2018–2019, Noitamina accelerated its film output, producing eight theatrical releases in 2019 alone to capitalize on the block's growing influence. Notable originals included Penguin Highway (2018), directed by Hiroyasu Ishida at Studio Colorido, an adaptation of Tomihiko Morimi's novel blending sci-fi mystery with coming-of-age elements, which premiered at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. Ride Your Wave (2019), directed by Masaaki Yuasa at Science Saru, offered a romantic fantasy about loss and surfing, praised for its fluid animation and emotional depth. Sequels like the Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System trilogy (2019), comprising three shorts exploring side stories in the franchise, and Koutetsujou no Kabaneri: Unato Kessen (2019), a continuation of the steampunk action series, extended popular Noitamina IPs to theaters, often with limited engagements followed by streaming availability. These productions underscore Noitamina's strategy of fostering original content and franchise extensions, prioritizing artistic innovation over mainstream shonen tropes while achieving commercial success through partnerships with studios like CloverWorks and Wit Studio. Production continued into the 2020s with sequels and originals, including Psycho-Pass Providence (2023) and films from the Given series (2020, 2024), as well as Backflip!! (2022) and Senpai wa Otokonoko: Clear After the Rain (2025), maintaining focus on emotional and innovative storytelling.

Chronological list of films

Noitamina began producing theatrical anime films in 2009 as part of its expansion into feature-length projects, often focusing on original stories or adaptations tied to its TV series, with collaborations involving prominent studios. These films typically emphasize mature themes, innovative animation, and broader audience appeal, aligning with the block's mission. Production peaked in 2019 with eight releases, reflecting a strategic shift toward cinematic works amid reduced TV output. Subsequent years saw sequels to popular Noitamina series and new originals, maintaining continuity in storytelling and visual style up to 2025. The following table lists Noitamina's theatrical films in chronological order by release date, including key production details:
YearTitleStudioNotes
2009 (September 26)Eden of the East Compilation: Air CommunicationProduction I.GRe-editing of Eden of the East TV series.
2009 (November 28)Eden of the East: The King of EdenProduction I.GSequel to Eden of the East.
2010 (March 13)Eden of the East: Paradise LostProduction I.GSequel to Eden of the East: The King of Eden.
2011 (November 19)Un-Go episode:0 Inga chapterBonesPrequel to Un-Go TV series.
2012 (June 16)Library War: The Wings of RevolutionProduction I.GSequel to Library War TV series.
2013 (August 31)Anohana the Movie: The Flower We Saw That DayA-1 PicturesCompilation with new epilogue to Anohana TV series.
2015 (January 9)Psycho-Pass: The MovieProduction I.GSequel to Psycho-Pass TV series.
2015 (June 5)Typhoon NorudaStudio ColoridoOriginal work.
2015 (September 19)The Anthem of the Heart (Kokoro ga Sakebitagatterunda.)A-1 PicturesOriginal story by Muku Misaki.
2015 (October 2)The Empire of Corpses (Shisha no Teikoku)Wit StudioAdaptation of Project Itoh's novel; second in the trilogy.
2015 (November 13)Harmony (Hāmonī)Studio 4°CAdaptation of Project Itoh's novel; third in the trilogy.
2016 (December 31)Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress: Gathering LightWit StudioFirst part of Kabaneri compilation films.
2017 (January 7)Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress: Burning LifeWit StudioSecond part of Kabaneri compilation films.
2017 (February 3)Genocidal OrganGeno StudioAdaptation of Project Itoh's novel; first in the trilogy.
2017 (April 7)Night Is Short, Walk On GirlScience SaruAdaptation of Tomihiko Morimi's novel.
2017 (May 19)Lu over the WallScience SaruOriginal work.
2018 (August 17)Penguin HighwayStudio ColoridoAdaptation of Tomihiko Morimi's novel; directed by Hiroyasu Ishida.
2019 (January 25)Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System Case.1: Crime and PunishmentProduction I.GFirst in the Sinners of the System trilogy.
2019 (February 15)Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System Case.2: First GuardianProduction I.GSecond in the Sinners of the System trilogy.
2019 (March 8)Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System Case.3: On the Shambhala FloatProduction I.GThird in the Sinners of the System trilogy.
2019 (April 26)The WonderlandSignal.MDAdaptation of Sachiko Kashiwaba's novel.
2019 (May 10)Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress: The Battle of Unato (Koutetsujou no Kabaneri Tsudou: Unato Kessen)Wit StudioSequel to the 2016 TV series.
2019 (June 21)Ride Your Wave (Kimi to, Nami ni Noretara)Science SaruOriginal story by Masaaki Yuasa.
2019 (October 11)Her Blue Sky (Sora no Aosa wo Shiru Hito yo)CloverWorksOriginal story by Mari Okada.
2019 (October 26)Saekano the Movie: Finale (Saenai Heroine no Sodatekata Fine)CloverWorksSequel to the Saekano TV series.
2020 (August 22)Given: The Movie (Eiga Given)LercheSequel to the 2019 TV series.
2020 (March 27)Psycho-Pass 3: First InspectorProduction I.GSequel to the Psycho-Pass 3 TV series.
2022 (July 2)Backflip!!ZexcsSequel to Backflip!! TV series.
2023 (May 12)Psycho-Pass ProvidenceProduction I.GStandalone sequel in the Psycho-Pass franchise.
2024 (January 27)Given the Movie: Hiiragi Mix (Eiga Given: Hiiragi Mix)LercheSecond film in the Given series, focusing on side characters.
2024 (September 20)Given the Movie: To the Sea (Eiga Given: Umi e)LercheThird film in the Given series.
2025 (February 14)Senpai wa Otokonoko: Clear After the RainProject No.9Sequel to Senpai Is an Otokonoko TV series.
This selection highlights Noitamina's emphasis on , romance, and , with many films achieving commercial success and critical recognition for their narrative depth and quality. Production has continued selectively post-2020, prioritizing high-impact releases over volume.

Impact and reception

Critical acclaim and audience response

Noitamina has earned widespread critical acclaim for its commitment to innovative storytelling and high production values, distinguishing it from mainstream blocks by prioritizing original narratives aimed at adult audiences. Series such as (2005), the inaugural Noitamina production, were praised for their emotional depth, watercolor-style , and relatable character-driven drama, appealing to mainstream Japanese women rather than traditional viewers. Similarly, (2009) garnered international recognition for its sophisticated thriller elements and , positioning Noitamina as a platform for boundary-pushing that challenges conventional tropes. Critics have highlighted the block's role in elevating anime's artistic credibility, with many entries receiving awards and positive reviews for their thematic maturity and visual experimentation. Audience response to Noitamina has been generally positive, particularly among its target demographic of young adults and non-traditional anime fans, though viewership remains modest compared to prime-time broadcasts. The block consistently achieves average ratings of 2-4% in Japan's late-night slot, considered respectable for experimental programming, with peaks reaching 3.7-6.6% for standout episodes in earlier years and recent series like The Dinner Table Detective (2025) debuting at 3.2%. This has fostered a loyal following that values the block's eclectic mix, including josei-focused romances and psychological dramas, leading to international popularity via streaming platforms for titles like Your Lie in April (2014), one of Noitamina's highest-rated entries. Fan communities often commend the diversity, with polls identifying series such as Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (2011) as favorites for their emotional resonance. Despite its successes, Noitamina has faced some criticism for occasionally shifting toward otaku-centric content, diluting its original non-otaku focus established in 2005. Early experiments like (2011) drew ridicule for narrative inconsistencies, while later series such as (2011) and (2012) were seen as catering more to genre fans, prompting debates about the block's direction. Only about 5 of its first 27 series received sequels, indicating variable commercial viability, though the overall initiative has been deemed tremendously successful, culminating in a 20th-anniversary exhibit in 2025 that underscores its enduring impact.

Influence on the anime industry

Noitamina, launched by in April 2005, significantly broadened the industry's target demographics by focusing on adult viewers, particularly women in their 20s and 30s, rather than the traditional young male audience dominant in late-night programming. This shift aimed to incorporate drama-like storylines and mature themes, drawing from adaptations such as and , which achieved solid viewership ratings of around 3% in and secured international licensing deals with companies like and . By prioritizing accessible, high-quality narratives outside typical genre tropes, Noitamina challenged the industry's reliance on fan-service oriented content, fostering a space for emotional depth and character-driven stories that appealed to non-traditional fans. In terms of production, Noitamina introduced innovative approaches by blending with live-action techniques, encouraging diverse visual styles and experimental concepts unbound to specific studios. This philosophy led to unique series like and , which emphasized artistic experimentation and non-linear storytelling, influencing subsequent productions to explore bolder creative risks. The block's expansion to two weekly slots in 2010 and its foray into live-action further diversified Fuji TV's output, while early agreements with platforms like and accelerated global distribution, helping penetrate mainstream international markets years before widespread streaming adoption. Noitamina's lasting impact is evident in its role as a pioneer for adult-oriented anime, inspiring derivative blocks like +Ultra on the same network, which produced hits such as . Despite occasional deviations toward otaku-appealing titles in the early 2010s, successes like and Erased reaffirmed its reputation for high-impact series that combined critical acclaim with commercial viability, contributing to the industry's gradual diversification and increased emphasis on original IP over adaptations. By 2015, its 10th anniversary film projects underscored its evolution into a brand synonymous with cutting-edge animation, ultimately helping elevate 's cultural reach beyond niche fandoms.

References

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