Sousou no Frieren left a void in the hearts of many when it concluded (mine included), and I think Spice & Wolf is the perfect work to “somewhat” fill that lingering emptiness. Though this is a seed article for Spice & Wolf, I personally find that it shares many similarities with Frieren and offers some delightful “complements” in comparison. The aspects I adored in Spice & Wolf are, in many ways, the same things that drew me to Frieren.
Shared Strengths
First, let’s talk about the similarities. Both stories unfold in a medieval setting steeped in fantasy, accompanied by wonderfully rustic soundtracks (Evan Call and Kevin Penkin are neck-and-neck in their brilliance). While Frieren leans into high fantasy, the world of Spice & Wolf feels more grounded and true to its historical inspiration. Yet, both works carry a relaxed, almost chill vibe as they guide viewers from one land to another, weaving journeys that explore people and places. What stands out most, though, is their character crafting.
Holo and Frieren are both ageless beings who’ve lived for centuries (one just over a thousand years, the other around six hundred). Each, in her own way, lacks a full grasp of ordinary human emotions. For Frieren, it’s only after Himmel’s death that she finds the drive to understand humanity, slowly shifting her perspective on the world and her bonds with those close to her. Holo, meanwhile, hasn’t truly known deep affection or intimate connections until she crosses paths with Lawrence—and through him, she discovers what love means. In a sense, they’re like blank slates, gradually colored with emotion through their interactions and travels (though Holo, being the wise sage of Yoitsu, catches on to her feelings faster than “granny” Frieren 🤣).
Where They Complement Each Other
Now, here’s the “complement” part. In Sousou no Frieren, Himmel’s feelings for Frieren are painfully clear, yet our “muse” remains oblivious, leaving their love unfulfilled. Himmel can only quietly pave the way for her future happiness, bittersweet as it is. Spice & Wolf, on the other hand, cranks up the romance—making it the beating heart of the story. It’s not a “what if” scenario where two characters might realize their love; Holo and Lawrence leap straight into a soulmate bond, becoming partners—husband and wife, even—and pushing their relationship further through challenges. It’s as if Spice & Wolf asks, “What would happen if Frieren and Himmel had fallen in love and stayed together?” The answer lies in themes of aging and separation, the vast gap between species. Holo, a goddess, is immortal and ageless, while Lawrence is a mere mortal who’ll grow old and eventually fade. How do they navigate sacrifice, compromise, and empathy to stay together? That dynamic is the core of what hooked me on Spice & Wolf and the Holo-Lawrence duo—a pair that, even after all these years, remains one of my all-time favorites 🥰.
Later on, the story dives deeper into nurturing, healing, and the mutual sacrifices they make to preserve their love. Gone is the wistful ache of gazing into Himmel’s sad eyes as he looks at Frieren; instead, we’re treated to the satisfaction and fullness of watching Lawrence and Holo find happiness together.
A Worthy Remake
Of course, the production quality of Spice & Wolf’s remake doesn’t quite match Frieren’s (Madhouse and Fukushi’s lineup are top-tier in the industry, barring full in-house efforts from KyoAni or Ufotable 🥹). Still, this remake is a labor of love from directors Takahashi and Sanpei—veterans who brought the original Spice & Wolf to life. With their track record, there’s every reason to trust in their work. Best of all, Spice & Wolf will span 25 episodes, airing continuously for six months to a year. Back-to-back top-tier fantasy shows—what could be better than that?
