The Most Acclaimed Anime Series of 2023: A Review
The world of anime is constantly evolving, with new and exciting series being released every year. As we enter a new year, it is time to look at some of the most anticipated anime series that will be released in 2023. From reboots of classic series to new and innovative stories, the upcoming year promises to be a great one for anime fans. So, let’s take a look at some of the most anticipated anime series of 2023.
1. Neon Genesis Evangelion: A Masterpiece of Japanese Animation
One of the reasons why Neon Genesis Evangelion is so popular is its cast of well-rounded characters. The main protagonist, Shinji Ikari, is a reluctant hero who struggles with his self-worth and identity, making him one of the most relatable anime characters ever. The other pilots, Asuka Langley and Rei Ayanami, are equally complex, with their own demons to fight. The show’s recurring cast of adults, such as Misato Katsuragi and Gendo Ikari, add depth to the story, giving viewers a glimpse into the world of the series through a more mature lens.
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a series that goes beyond the typical anime tropes and explores meaningful themes that resonate with viewers. The show’s well-written characters, stunning art and animation, and iconic soundtrack are some of the things that make it a masterpiece of Japanese animation. If you’re a fan of anime, then Neon Genesis Evangelion should be on your must-watch list. It’s a series that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire and entertain viewers today. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey that is Neon Genesis Evangelion.
The plot of EVANGELION:3.0+1.01 THRICE UPON A TIME picks up 14 years after the events of the previous film, EVANGELION:3.0 YOU CAN (NOT) REDO. The world is still recovering from the apocalypse, known as the Third Impact, caused by the Eva pilots trying to initiate the Human Instrumentality project. Shinji, the protagonist, is in a suspended state of animation to prevent further harm, as well as cope with his emotional trauma. As the story unfolds, Shinji is awoken by a new character named Toji, a member of the WILLE organization, which is determined to bring down the rogue NERV organization responsible for the Third Impact.
2. Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is a classic anime series that is considered by many as a masterpiece. Its intriguing plot, exceptional characters, and masterful music make it a must-watch for any anime enthusiast. This space western series has a unique blend of humor, action, drama, and noir elements that keep you engaged throughout the series. In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into Cowboy Bebop and explore everything there is to know about this iconic anime series.
Cowboy Bebop is set in the year 2071 and follows a group of bounty hunters who travel through space in search of dangerous criminals in their spaceship, the Bebop. The main character, Spike Spiegel, is a former member of a criminal organization known as the Red Dragon Syndicate. He has a complex past and struggles to come to terms with it. Along with Spike, the Bebop’s crew includes Jet Black, a former cop turned bounty hunter, Faye Valentine, a femme fatale with a mysterious past, Edward, a young genius hacker, and Ein, a genetically-engineered Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
One of the show’s most distinctive features is its music, composed by Yoko Kanno. The music spans several genres, from jazz to blues and western to electronic, and is perfectly matched with the action on the screen. The show’s opening theme, “Tank!” by Seatbelts, has become an iconic piece of music in the anime world.
Cowboy Bebop has a unique episodic structure, with each episode featuring a new bounty for the crew to hunt down. However, there are also several arcs that delve into the personal lives and backstories of the characters. The show juggles both light-hearted and dark themes effortlessly, from serious moral dilemmas to comedic episodes featuring a refrigerator that never runs out of food.
The show’s animation style is another highlight, with its 90s-inspired retro-futuristic aesthetic that perfectly captures the essence of the show’s setting. The design of the spaceships, weapons, and technology in the series is also a nice touch. Each character has a distinct look and personality, and their interactions are some of the best moments in the show.
The series tackles themes of loneliness, depression, and identity, and how they manifest themselves in different ways. The exploration of Spike’s past and his relationship with his former partner, Vicious, is one of the show’s most poignant arcs. The final episode, “The Real Folk Blues Part II,” is a satisfying conclusion to the series that ties up loose ends, brings closure to the characters’ stories, and leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
Cowboy Bebop is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. Its well-rounded characters, excellent music, and memorable stories make it an anime that deserves to be watched over and over again. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the show, Cowboy Bebop is an experience you won’t soon forget.
3. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
In the world of mecha anime, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann (TTGL) is considered a classic. The series captures the essence of what makes a mecha show great: epic battles, larger-than-life characters, and growth through adversity. It has been over ten years since TTGL first aired, yet it still stands tall as a must-see for anime fans and newcomers alike. In this blog post, we will dive into why Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is worth watching and why it still holds up to this day.
TTGL takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where humans are forced to live underground due to the surface being overrun by beasts known as “Gunmen.” The story follows Simon and Kamina, two friends who dream of one day going to the surface. When Simon discovers a small drill that leads him to a giant robot called Lagann, he and Kamina set off on an adventure to fight against the Gunmen and reclaim the surface. Along the way, they gather a group of allies, each with their own unique personality and motivations, that help them in their quest.
One of the standout aspects of TTGL is its over-the-top action sequences. The mecha battles are some of the most insane and creative fights in anime history, involving robots the size of galaxies and physics-defying maneuvers. The scale of these battles is truly awe-inspiring, and they never cease to amaze even after multiple viewings. The animation quality is top-notch, and the use of bright colors and dynamic camera angles gives the fights a sense of energy and excitement.
What makes TTGL even more memorable than the action scenes is its cast of characters. Each character is distinct and memorable, from the hot-blooded Kamina to the calculating and cool-headed Viral. They all have their own arcs and develop throughout the series, making them more than just one-dimensional archetypes. It’s easy to get invested in their stories and root for them in battle. The interactions between the characters are also a highlight, with witty banter and heartfelt moments that make us care about their relationships.
TTGL also tackles some mature themes in its storytelling. The show explores the idea of fighting against fate and achieving the seemingly impossible through sheer willpower and teamwork. The characters face incredibly difficult challenges, both physical and emotional, and often come out stronger on the other side. It’s a message that resonates with viewers and inspires them to push themselves beyond their limits.
As anime continues to grow in popularity, there is no doubt that 2023 will bring us some of the best anime series yet. From the return of beloved characters to adaption of light novels, this year promises to be full of exciting and innovative stories. The highly anticipated anime series of 2023 will undoubtedly offer fans an immersive experience that they will never forget. So, whether you are a long-time fan of anime or just starting to explore this genre, be sure to keep an eye out for these upcoming series. You won’t want to miss them!
