Prerna Singh
‘The Liberator’ is an animated miniseries based on a true story from World War II, where a U.S. Army officer, Felix Sparks, along with his men – the Thunderbirds – fight for over 500 days to liberate the Nazi concentration camp at Dachau. The impact of the storytelling about these brothers in arms is further enhanced because of the visual experience the series provides. Created by Jeb Stuart, it is the first to use Trioscope Enhanced Hybrid Animation. If you are looking for similar animated shows, here are a few others you may like.
5. Black Lagoon (2006 – )
The series is inspired by true events about piracy on the South China Sea in the 1990s. ‘Black Lagoon’ tells the story of the Lagoon Company, a team of pirate mercenaries that smuggles goods in and around South East Asia on an American-made boat called the Black Lagoon. It is set in the fictional harbor city of Roanapur, which is home to a wide nexus of international crime lords, assassins, thugs, prostitutes, and gunmen. Much like ‘The Liberator,’ the series is full of action and thrills.
4. Vinland Saga (2019)
The series is set in the 11th century when the Vikings controlled England. It follows two storylines – one of King Cnut the Great’s rise to power and the other about a young explorer called Thorfinn. Driven by a strong sense of justice, Thorfinn joins the band led by Askeladd, the mercenary leader, in the hope of avenging his father’s death. Much like Felix Sparks in ‘The Liberator,’ Thorfinn’s set of principles leads him into a fight bigger than himself. If you enjoyed ‘The Liberator,’ you will surely relish this action-packed series.
3. Welcome to the N.H.K (2006)
Hikikomori or social isolation was a thing way before the pandemic, making this series all the more relatable. Reflecting ‘hikikomori’ phenomenon in Japan, this series follows Tatsuhiro Sato, an unemployed college drop-out who lives as a recluse. Touching upon themes of mental illness and highlighting the significance of human interactions, it brings to the forefront the need to be needed. The desire to belong is a strong one, and when met with acceptance, it encourages us to push past our limitations, which is also proven by the army regiment in ‘The Liberator.’
2. Police Academy: The Series (1988-1989)
Also known as ‘Police Academy: The Animated Series,’ it is chronologically set between the fourth and fifth film from the ‘Police Academy’ franchise. It follows the adventures of Carey Mahoney and his set of companions, who unknowingly make life hard for Captain Harris and his assistant Sergeant Proctor. This ragtag band often work together towards a common goal. Although you may not believe it, the idea for the series stems from a real-life experience.
Paul Maslansky, one of the producers, came across a few cadets undergoing training who did not look like they could become officers. As it turns out, they were only enrolled in the program because the mayor had asked the academy to accept a broad spectrum of people, who would eventually be weeded out of the system before they could become officers. He felt it would be interesting to see a group of trainees like that become officers, bringing about this comedy which is guaranteed to entertain you.
1. Blood of Zeus (2020)
The American animated series was formerly known as ‘Gods & Heroes’ and is rooted in Greek Mythology. Heron, a commoner is unaware that he is a Demi-God and born out of an affair between his human mother and the god Zeus. The arrival of the powerful half-demon, Seraphim causes mayhem on Earth. Amidst the rising challenges, Heron realizes that his true purpose is to save the world from the demonic army. Packed with some seriously stunning action sequences, it draws parallels to ‘The Liberator.’ Created by brothers Charley and Vlas Parlapanides, this American anime has been highly praised for its visuals.
Read More: Is The Liberator a True Story?
