The Fable [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 25]

The Fable: A Masterclass in Dark Comedy and Character Growth

When The Fable first aired in 2024, it flew under the radar for many anime fans. Produced by Tezuka Productions, this adaptation of Katsuhisa Minami’s manga didn’t come with the flashy animation or over-the-top action sequences that dominate the industry. Instead, it offered something far more compelling: a story about an assassin trying—and hilariously failing—to live a normal life.

A Killer Trying to Be Normal

The premise alone is gold. Fable, a legendary assassin with a reputation for ruthless efficiency, is ordered to lay low for a year and pretend to be an ordinary citizen. The catch? He has no idea how to function in society. Watching him navigate mundane tasks—like drawing portraits or dealing with nosy neighbors—while his killer instincts occasionally slip through is comedy at its finest.

Fans on MyAnimeList and Reddit couldn’t get enough of this contrast. One user joked, “Akira’s idea of ‘blending in’ is like a tiger trying to pass as a house cat—adorable but terrifying.” The show’s humor isn’t just slapstick; it’s rooted in the absurdity of Fable’s situation. Whether he’s accidentally intimidating a barista or struggling to understand social cues, every moment feels fresh and unpredictable.

The Supporting Cast Steals the Show

While Fable (or Akira, as he’s known in his civilian life) is the heart of the series, the supporting cast elevates it to another level. Yoko, his sharp-tongued handler, is a fan favorite for her no-nonsense attitude and occasional soft moments. Then there’s Kuro, the reckless driver with a heart of gold, and Misaki, the innocent artist who unwittingly gets tangled in Fable’s world.

One Reddit thread highlighted how “Yoko’s dynamic with Akira is pure gold—she’s the only one who can call him out without getting stabbed.” Another fan gushed about Kuro’s chaotic energy, especially in Episode 25 when he “threw away a classic car like it was nothing—absolute madlad.”

A Surprisingly Emotional Core

Beneath the comedy, The Fable has a surprisingly emotional core. Akira’s journey isn’t just about avoiding his past; it’s about discovering what it means to be human. The finale, which wrapped up the season with a heartfelt letter from Hina, left fans divided. Some felt it was a perfect conclusion, while others wished for more.

“I wanted to see that Christmas party!” lamented one MyAnimeList user. “Octopus boss playing matchmaker would’ve been the perfect send-off.” Still, most agreed that the show’s quieter moments—like Akira’s growing bond with Misaki—added depth to what could’ve been a one-note gag series.

The Animation Debate

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the animation. The Fable isn’t visually stunning, and some scenes suffer from stiff movements or odd facial expressions. But here’s the thing—fans didn’t care. As one reviewer put it, “The janky animation somehow works? It gives the show this gritty, old-school charm.”

Others argued that the writing and voice acting more than made up for it. “Akira’s deadpan delivery is everything,” wrote a Redditor. “You could animate this with stick figures, and I’d still watch it.”

Will There Be a Season 2?

The biggest question on everyone’s mind is whether The Fable will return. The manga has plenty of material left, and fans are already clamoring for more. “Tezuka Productions, please—just give us one more season!” begged a MyAnimeList commenter.

For now, though, Season 1 stands as a hidden gem of 2024. It’s not perfect, but it’s undeniably unique—a rare blend of dark humor, heartfelt moments, and a protagonist who’s equal parts terrifying and endearing.

Final Verdict: 8.5/10

If you’re looking for an anime that’s equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, The Fable is a must-watch. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself rooting for an assassin to finally figure out how to use a microwave.

“Lowkey the best anime of 2024.” — And honestly? We agree.