Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26
A two-volume collection of Fujimoto’s previous one-shots, Tatsuki Fujimoto Before Chainsaw Man (“Tatsuki Fujimoto’s Short Stories”), subtitled 17–21 and 22–26, were released on October 4 and November 4, 2021, respectively. Streaming on Amazon Prime Video, this series offers a fascinating glimpse into the formative years of one of modern manga’s most innovative voices.
The episodes cover a wide range of genres from school romances and body-swap comedies to supernatural thrillers and surreal tales showcasing the versatility and experimental spirit that would later define his major works like Chainsaw Man and Look Back. Each story is uniquely animated, maintaining the charm and creativity of Fujimoto’s original art while exploring themes of adolescence, ambition, and human connection.
By watching 17–26, viewers can trace the evolution of Fujimoto’s storytelling style, from playful experimentation to the emotional and cinematic mastery seen in his later works. It’s not just entertainment it’s a window into the growth of a visionary creator.
One-Shot Manga Included
Tatsuki Fujimoto’s anthology series, 17–26, brings to life eight of his early one-shot manga stories created between the ages of 17 and 26.
A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin’ in the Schoolyard
In 2019, an extraterrestrial force successfully defeated Earth, resulting in widespread devastation for humanity. To the victors, humans are no more than livestock, just as chickens once were to people. However, two human survivors, Yūto and Ami, are currently concealed in a school courtyard that has been overrun by extraterrestrial students. They have survived by disguising themselves as chickens, which are creatures that most aliens find unappealing. However, a diligent student named Yōhei discovers their secret and opposes the senseless slaughter of humans, deciding to help them survive.
Sasaki Stopped a Bullet
Sasaki holds his teacher, Chieko Kawaguchi, in the highest regard. She instilled in him the value of pursuing his dreams with confidence and determination, regardless of the challenges he might face. However, one day, elements of Kawaguchi’s past resurface, jeopardizing her reputation and potentially impacting her professional standing among her students. Sasaki is determined to defend his idol. He puts her own teachings into practice, pushing himself to achieve the impossible in order to protect her.
Love is Blind
As student council president, Ibuki has achieved much, but he attributes his successes to his only fellow member, Yuri Kōnosu. As he approaches graduation and his departure for university, he resolves to confess his feelings to her. This personal objective takes precedence over all other responsibilities, including his official duties. He is resolute in his decision to proceed, undeterred by any anticipated challenges.
Shikaku
Shikaku is a highly skilled assassin known for her meticulous precision and her ability to show unexpected compassion. Her latest client, Yugeru, is an immortal vampire weary of endless existence. In a desperate attempt to secure his release, he offers Shikaku $100 million to bring his life to an end. When she fails, she apologizes for his suffering, and he forgives her. Their mutual empathy fosters a sense of connection. Yugeru has lost all hope, but Shikaku’s resolve may become the spark that rekindles his will to live.
Mermaid Rhapsody
Toshihide, the son of a mermaid, has the ability to hold his breath for extended periods. He utilizes this talent to play an underwater piano. His music attracts a mermaid named Shiju, who saves him when he runs out of air. In return, he provides her with piano lessons, fostering a close bond between them. Toshihide later confronts the legend that mermaids eat humans, fearing that his friendship with Shiju may result in him becoming her prey.
Woke-Up-as-a-Girl Syndrome
Following a diagnosis of the irreversible “Woke-Up-as-a-Girl Syndrome”, Toshihide experiences isolation and harassment from his classmates and is forced to reevaluate his relationship with his girlfriend, Rie. His situation becomes more complex as he begins to perceive Rie’s brother, Akira, in a new manner. Previously prone to avoiding confrontation, Toshihide now must learn to confront his challenges directly in order to establish a new sense of normalcy and fundamentally redefine his own identity.
Nayuta of the Prophecy
Nayuta, a child with a horned appearance and a congenital absence of a human heart and cursed speech, was prophesied before birth to bring about the world’s end. She is a figure of fear and disdain, and is held responsible for the deaths of her parents and the suffering of many. Despite the challenges she faces, her brother Kenji remains committed, working diligently to care for and protect her. While Kenji manages a variety of tasks, Nayuta spends her days reading, creating swords, and hunting rodents for food. As public concern about her existence grows, Kenji struggles with the complexity of his relationship with his sister, who could potentially be the harbinger of apocalypse.
Sisters
A nude portrait of Mitsuko Ebara is displayed at the entrance of her school after her sister Kyōko’s painting wins the top prize in a prestigious art competition. In accordance with academic tradition, the award-winning work is exhibited for a full year, forcing Mitsuko to endure relentless teasing and humiliation from her classmates. Furious and embarrassed, she vows to make Kyōko suffer as she has.
