TV-Series
Description
"Adventures of Little El Cid" is a historical fantasy anime and manga series that reimagines the life of the legendary Spanish hero Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, known as El Cid, during his childhood. The narrative blends historical elements with fantastical adventures, presenting a youthful version of El Cid as he embarks on a journey filled with challenges, friendships, and battles against both human and supernatural foes.

The story begins in 11th-century Spain, a land divided among Christian and Moorish kingdoms. Young Rodrigo, nicknamed Ruy, grows up in the village of Vivar, where he dreams of becoming a great knight. His life takes a dramatic turn when he discovers a magical sword, Tizona, which grants him extraordinary abilities but also binds him to a destiny of protecting the land from dark forces. Alongside his loyal friends, including the resourceful Jimena and the brave Diego, Ruy faces numerous trials, from rival knights to mythical creatures, as he strives to uphold justice and honor.

As the series progresses, Ruy’s adventures expand beyond his village, taking him to castles, forests, and battlefields. He encounters historical figures such as King Ferdinand I of León and the Moorish prince Al-Mu'tamin, as well as fictional adversaries like the sorcerer Malek and the treacherous Count García Ordóñez. Each encounter tests Ruy’s courage, wisdom, and sense of duty, shaping him into the legendary hero he is destined to become.

Themes of loyalty, bravery, and the clash of cultures are central to the narrative. The series explores the complexities of medieval Spain, portraying the coexistence and conflicts between Christians and Moors with a focus on mutual respect and shared humanity. Ruy’s growth as a leader and warrior is paralleled by his deepening understanding of the world and his role within it.

"Adventures of Little El Cid" combines action, humor, and heartfelt moments, creating a dynamic and engaging portrayal of a young hero’s journey. The series balances historical inspiration with creative liberties, offering a fresh perspective on the legend of El Cid while staying true to the spirit of his enduring legacy.
Information
Adventures of Little El Cid
リトル・エル・シドの冒険
Ruy, the Little Cid
Type: TV-Series
Anime Episodes: 26
Movie/Episode length: 30 min.
Date: 04/15/1980
Categories
Genre
Adventure
Settings
Historically
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Episodes
Staffel 1
1Birth of a Small Knight
2Father's Teachings
3Episode 3
4Episode 4
5Episode 5
6I'm King of the Kids
7Episode 7
8Rui Flew in the sky
Rui attempts to fly by constructing a set of wings from wood and fabric after observing birds soaring above the village. He convinces a hesitant Rodrigo to assist him in transporting the large contraption to a cliff overlooking the valley. Rodrigo warns Rui of the danger, but Rui dismisses the concerns, driven by the desire to prove his invention works. During the first test, the wings fail to catch the wind properly, and Rui tumbles down a rocky slope, sustaining scrapes and tearing his tunic. Rodrigo helps him back to the village, where they encounter a group of older boys who mock Rui for his failed experiment. The mockery shifts Rui's motivation from personal achievement to a need for public vindication. He secretly repairs the wings and returns to the cliff at dawn without Rodrigo's knowledge. This time, Rui launches himself into a strong gust and briefly glides over the valley floor before the wooden frame splinters and he crashes into a hay cart. Villagers who witnessed the flight pull him from the wreckage, amazed that he survived. Rui's father arrives and sternly confiscates the remains of the wings, forbidding any further attempts. The incident, however, sparks curiosity among the village children, who now view Rui differently and begin asking him how the wings were made. Rui must now decide whether to obey his father or use his newfound influence to build again.
9Episode 9
10Episode 10
11Episode 11
12Tin Knight
13Episode 13
14Graveyard of Souls
15Battle in the Valley
16Rui Catches a Boar
17No Castle
18Episode 18
19Castle on Top of the Hill
20Bell of Bancolbo
21Rui Judged
22Domingo's Bridge
23Texfin's Plot
24Arrow Flying in the Air
25Crisis of Castelia Castle
26いつの日か、エル・シドに
The Moorish army, led by Texfin, surrounds the Castilian castle to take King Fernando prisoner. King Fernando accepts the challenge and prepares his forces for the confrontation. Ruy and his father, Layne, join the defenders within the castle walls as the Moors begin their assault. The attack forces Ruy to fight alongside the adult knights, putting his training to the ultimate test. Texfin personally leads the charge, intent on capturing the King and breaking the spirit of Castile. Ruy witnesses the brutal reality of combat as soldiers on both sides fall during the siege. The boy maneuvers through the chaos of battle, trying to protect those around him despite his age. King Fernando fights valiantly against multiple Moorish attackers, demonstrating why his men remain loyal. Texfin breaks through the outer defenses, creating a direct path to the King's position. Ruy places himself between the Moorish leader and the wounded King, refusing to retreat. Texfin hesitates upon seeing the boy's defiance, giving the royal guards precious seconds to regroup. The Moors ultimately withdraw from the castle, but the damage to the fortress leaves it vulnerable. Ruy realizes that Texfin will return with even greater force, and the war for Castile has only just begun.
Cast
Comment(s)
Staff
  • Series Director
    Fumio Kurokawa
  • Storyboard
    Fumio Kurokawa
    Mitsuo Kusakabe
    Yasuo Kageyama
    Kōzō Kusuba
  • Character Design
    Shūichi Seki
  • Sound Director
    Yasuo Urakami
  • Script
    Toshiyuki Kashiwakura
    Kōzō Kusuba
  • Episode Director
    Fumio Kurokawa
  • Animation Director
    Akio Sakai
    Mitsuru Suzuki
    Takao Ogawa
  • Producer
    Junzō Nakajima
Production
  • Animation Production
    Nippon Animation
  • Production
    Nippon Animation
    TV Tokyo
Music
Opening
Ep. 1-26
“Rui Pequeño Cid”