Key Details
- Japanese Title: 片田舎のおっさん、剣聖になる ～ただの田舎の剣術師範だったのに、大成した弟子たちが俺を放ってくれない件～
- English Title: From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman: My Hotshot Disciples Are All Grown Up Now, and They Won’t Leave Me Alone
- Genre: Fantasy, Slice of Life, Action
- Original Creator: Shigeru Sagazaki
- Illustrator (Light Novel): Tetsuhiro Nabeshima
- Director: Akio Kazumi
- Series Composition: Kunihiko Okada
- Character Design & Chief Animation Director: Satsuki Hayasaka
- Music Composer: Yasuharu Takanashi
- Animation Studios: Passione, Hayabusa Film
- 3D Animation Production: YAMATOWORKS
- Original Run: April 5, 2025 – Present
- Episodes: 5 (as of May 2025)
- Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video (Worldwide)
- Opening Theme: “HEROES” by Takanori Nishikawa
- Ending Theme: “Alright!!!” by FLOW
🧵 Synopsis
In a tranquil countryside village, Beryl Gardinant, a self-proclaimed “humble old man,” leads a modest life as a sword instructor at his local dojo. Once harboring dreams of becoming a renowned swordsman, Beryl has long since settled into obscurity, believing his teachings to be unremarkable.
However, fate takes an unexpected turn when Allucia Citrus, a former pupil and now the esteemed leader of the Liberion Order’s knights, visits Beryl with a proposition: to serve as a special instructor for the kingdom’s elite knights. Initially reluctant, Beryl accepts and journeys to the capital, only to discover that his past students have become some of the most formidable figures in the realm, attributing their success to his guidance.
As Beryl navigates his new role, he grapples with the adoration of his accomplished disciples and the realization that his “backwater” teachings have left an indelible mark on the kingdom.
🎭 Main Characters & Voice Cast
- Beryl Gardinant: Voiced by Hiroaki Hirata
A middle-aged sword instructor from the countryside, Beryl is humble and unaware of the profound impact his teachings have had on his students. - Allucia Citrus: Voiced by Nao Toyama
Leader of the Liberion Order’s knights and a former student of Beryl. She holds deep respect and affection for her mentor. - Surena Lysandra: Voiced by Hitomi Ueda
A black-ranked adventurer who was once an orphan rescued and trained by Beryl. She harbors feelings for him and views Allucia as a rival. - Curuni Crueciel: Voiced by Yuki Hirose
A knight of the Liberion Order and former student of Beryl. Initially skeptical of Beryl’s abilities, he becomes a devoted follower after witnessing his prowess. - Ficelle Harbeller: Voiced by Hinaki Yano
A mage specializing in sword magic, trained by Beryl. Her unique blend of swordsmanship and magic sets her apart. - Lucy Diamond: Voiced by Chiwa Saito
Leader of the Magic Corps, intrigued by Beryl’s unconventional methods and the success of his students. - Henblitz Drout: Voiced by Kaito Ishikawa
Allucia’s second-in-command, who becomes one of Beryl’s most enthusiastic students after a humbling defeat - Mewi Freya: Voiced by Arisa Nakada
A newly introduced character in the anime, adding depth to the expanding narrative. - Spur: Voiced by Ryota Osaka
Another new character, contributing to the evolving dynamics within the story.
🎨 Animation & Direction
The anime adaptation is a collaborative effort between studios Passione and Hayabusa Film, with Akio Kazumi at the helm as director. The series composition is managed by Kunihiko Okada, while Satsuki Hayasaka serves as both the character designer and chief animation director. The animation blends traditional 2D artistry with 3D elements, courtesy of YAMATOWORKS, creating a visually engaging experience that captures both the serene countryside and the grandeur of the capital.
🎵 Music & Themes
- Opening Theme: “HEROES” by Takanori Nishikawa
An energetic anthem that encapsulates the journey of Beryl and his disciples. - Ending Theme: “Alright!!!” by FLOW
A vibrant track that complements the series’ blend of action and heartfelt moments.
The musical score, composed by Yasuharu Takanashi, enhances the emotional depth and dynamic action sequences throughout the series.
📚 Source Material & Adaptations
- Light Novel: Authored by Shigeru Sagazaki and illustrated by Tetsuhiro Nabeshima, the series began serialization on Shōsetsuka ni Narō in November 2020. Square Enix later acquired it, publishing under the SQEX Novel imprint from April 2021. As of March 2025, nine volumes have been released.
- Manga: Illustrated by Kazuki Satō, the manga adaptation commenced in August 2021 in Akita Shoten’s Dokodemo Young Champion. Seven volumes have been published as of March 2025.
- Spin-offs: Two spin-off manga series have been introduced:
- Gaiden: Hajimari no Mahō Kenshi, focusing on the origins of magical swordsmanship.
- Gaiden: Ryūsōken no Kiseki, centered around Surena Lysandra’s journey
🌟 Reception & Impact
The series has garnered significant acclaim, with over 5.5 million copies in circulation by August 2024. The manga adaptation received accolades, including third place in Rakuten Kobo’s “I Want to Read it Now!” category and second place in the 2023 Tsutaya Comic Awards.
The anime’s premiere was met with enthusiasm, bolstered by promotional events such as a special stage at AnimeJapan 2025 and a world premiere screening at Kabukicho Cine City Square.
🔄 Continuation & Future Prospects
With the anime currently airing and the source material ongoing, fans can anticipate further developments in Beryl’s story. The introduction of new characters and spin-offs suggests a rich universe ripe for exploration, potentially leading to additional seasons or adaptations.
🎯 Conclusion
From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman offers a refreshing take on the fantasy genre, emphasizing the lasting impact of mentorship and the unassuming heroism of its protagonist. Through its compelling narrative, dynamic characters, and high-quality production, the series resonates with audiences seeking both action and heartfelt storytelling.
