Thermae Romae Novae

Ancient Roman architect explores Japanese bath culture

Watch on Netflix
About Thermae Romae Novae

Released: 2022

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1 Season

Cast
Kenjiro Tsuda, Sanae Kobayashi, Chikahiro Kobayashi, Satoshi Hino, Tsutomu Isobe, Asami Seto, Shuichi Ikeda, Takahiro Sakurai, Yoshimasa Hosoya, Junya Enoki

About Thermae Romae Novae

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About

Thermae Romae Novae is a TV show set in ancient Rome. It is based on the popular manga series by Mari Yamazaki. The show follows the story of Lucius Modestus, a Roman bath architect, who mysteriously travels through time and ends up in modern-day Japan.

In modern Japan, Lucius is fascinated by the advanced bathing culture and tries to understand how the Japanese have perfected the art of bathing. He then takes this newfound knowledge back to ancient Rome and introduces revolutionary bathing and spa techniques, greatly impressing his fellow Romans.

Throughout the series, Lucius encounters various funny and absurd situations as he tries to adapt to the differences in culture and lifestyle between ancient Rome and modern Japan. The show blends comedy, history, and romance into a unique and entertaining story.

Making / Production

Thermae Romae Novae is an anime adaptation of the manga of the same name. The anime was produced by Studio TMS Entertainment and directed by Shin Itagaki. The show aired in 2022 and consists of 12 episodes.

The animation style of Thermae Romae Novae stays faithful to the original manga, with vibrant and detailed depictions of both ancient Rome and modern Japan. The combination of historical settings with comedic elements provides a visually appealing and engaging watching experience.

Actors

  • Lucius Modestus - Voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya: He portrays Lucius as a curious and intelligent bath architect who has a hard time adjusting to modern Japanese lifestyle.
  • Antonius - Voiced by Daisuke Ono: He plays Lucius' loyal friend and fellow Roman bath architect who also gets transported to modern Japan.
  • Yuri Yamazaki - Voiced by Rina Sato: She portrays a Japanese woman who becomes a love interest for Lucius and aids him in his cultural exploration.
  • Emperor Hadrian - Voiced by Takaya Kuroda: He plays the role of the Roman emperor who is fascinated by Lucius' bath inventions and helps him in his quest.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The original manga series, Thermae Romae, won the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize in 2010.
  • Thermae Romae Novae is a sequel to the original manga and focuses on a new story.
  • The anime adaptation stays true to the manga's humor and historical accuracy.

Awards

Unfortunately, Thermae Romae Novae did not win any significant awards. However, the original manga series received critical acclaim and won the prestigious Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize in 2010.

Quotes

  • "The art of bathing truly knows no boundaries." - Lucius Modestus
  • "Who would have thought that the key to Roman harmony and relaxation lies in Japanese bath innovations?" - Antonius
  • "Love transcends time and culture." - Yuri Yamazaki

Music / Soundtrack

  • Opening Theme: "Roman Innovation" by UNISON SQUARE GARDEN
  • Ending Theme: "Thermae☆Romae Novae" by SPARK!!SOUND!!SHOW!!
  • The soundtrack of the show includes a mix of classical Roman-inspired compositions and modern Japanese music styles.