Death Billiards

Like many others, I ended up watching this "backwards", i.e. after completing the anime series Death Parade (which was based on this movie).

As such, I expected it to be something along the lines of a quirky OVA albeit with somewhat less-developed design and animation.

Much to my amazement and delight, however, I discovered that both the animation and design were just as stunning and breathtaking as in the later series. From the clean use of CGI to the setting and backgrounds, everything was practically impeccable.

Although the design of the two original characters was probably updated and slightly improved for Death Parade, their main ... traits and quirks stayed exactly the same. Unfortunately, their personalities and backstories are not explored in very much detail given the rather limited time scope. Nevertheless, they still manage to convey their mysterious auras as well as their peculiar relationship really well.

If you have watched the anime series beforehand, you will of course be better informed as to how the whole "Death Billiards" system operates and why the characters do what they do, but, unfortunately, that will also make this short movie somewhat more predictable for you.

Fortunately, however, you will not be able to foreshadow everything as the dynamics of Death Billiards are slightly different from those of Death Parade (and also include new characters whose backstories are undoubtedly new, too).

The music used is also different from the anime series, hence making this movie all the more unique. While not in any way better, it is certainly far from being "worse" and even farther away from being "bad" (given the fact that it fits the overall tone and mood of the story pretty well).

Although you will probably miss hearing the opening (and may have hoped that they would have had at least used some kind of opening or ending, like myself), with such a limited time frame and a story so condensed, it is easy to understand why these were omitted.

Overall, I seriously enjoyed watching Death Billiards. Despite having watched Death Parade beforehand and being able to predict some aspects of the movie (as well as losing the original "shock" value it may have had for me), I was still pleasantly surprised by the change in dynamics and music as well as the consistently immaculate art style and animation.

Whether you're already familiar with the world of Decim and The Black-Haired Woman or not, this is definitely a movie worth watching.

Rate an 8
English Subtitled

Story
What lies after death is a question thought by many if not all. If you really think about how progressive we are as humans to any other live force that we know exists we can see we are truly remarkable. For all the improvements and skills we provide. Such a sheer unique attribute surely didn't rise from the ground. From the little we know we came from our parents. Now, with that equation in mind rewinding back time should lead us to 1 or 2 remainders. But with one or two remainders where did they stem from? With that answer makes me ... think of one logical answer and that is mystical.

In relation to the anime the director and writer provides a possible insight to this mysterious quarry. The only problem is the anime doesn't regard past work into the equation. For most people we have outlived the time it would take for a game of billiards. With that time we had choices. Sure, we might not recall all our choices (in infant years) but we made them. As we grew so did our choice making systems. A safe bet to say about one's life is that we are all stocks. A stock that is doing wonderfully will get pulled early on and a stock that is doing terrible will be dropped. As for the remainders they will continue on. So, with all that time how can one not be graded? Or better yet, how can two different people be on the same exact level?

Suppose none of one's logic of life mattered and only the logic of the anime could be used. What would you think? Personally, i think the anime is still twisted. For one character is painted as an aggressor and the other is painted as a pacifist. Hot and warm personalities in general terms are good at leading to an evil or good outlook of a person. Although towards the end both main characters also show attributes that the other has. Yet, one was rewarded and the other was punished. Even if it wasn't made clear in plot. As can be seen by not only art above the elevators. As for how the art was constructed that needs some clarification. For example, have you been in an elevator? I have yet to find a elevator that can only hold one person. If two people were headed in the same director why waste the extra energy? Also, if i am right with my take on the conclusion why is there no draw ability for the game and why does one must win over an other to prosper after death? If that is truly the fate that awaits us after death than both sides including the good are evil in nature.

Lastly, in terms of character's responses i would say all of which were appropriate even at the end to some degree.

tl;dr, If you liked Death Parade, this'll be an upgraded, HD version of what you watched. This is a much more polished version of the tv series, that honestly makes Death Parade look a lot worse.

There's been plenty about this said already so I'll keep this short. Basically, the animation in this is much more clean. In the show, there's an overall clumsiness to the lines in still shots (wonky eyes, crooked noses, etc), and a sort of faded/blurred look to the colors and lighting. Even the sakuga in the show can sometimes be choppy and a little stiff.

In contrast, Death Billiards has sharp ... lines, natural movement, and much more creative camera angles and pacing. The way the game panned out felt much more suspenseful than any of the episodes in the original (mostly due to the fact that there was a lot more moving camera shots during the game). Onna was much more expressive in her movement, acting as a much better foil to the unmoving Decim, whose face is shown in a lot of menacing angles better suiting him as an Arbiter.

I know TV shows operate on a different time frame and there have to be limitations in place to be able to release them. But really, the original TV series could've been so much of a stronger show if it had this level of quality throughout.

I watched Death Billiards a long time ago, before Death Parade was even released. I loved it, and wished there was more. The story was engaging, leaving the audience with nagging questions of humanity. What the younger guy said at the end really got to me, it was so powerful. I would fully recommend this movie, it was beautifully done. I'm partial to animes that don't give us full answers, let us decide for ourselves. I am very much sad that Death Billiards was so overlooked, not many people know about it. I personally love this art style, and I think it fits really well ... with the story. The music was fantastic, really fit the mood. It's a big oof when this one episode contains more character development than some 24 episode animes. If you've watched this, go watch Death Parade, if you've watched Death Parade, go watch this.

I haven't watched Death Parade in five years since it was airing, and so I decided to watch this OVA on a whim. I was a huge fan of the anime series, and so needless to say, Death Billiards was a great refresher for the essence of what Death Parade is all about. The moral ambiguity and mystery of the premise has always been what made it unique, and so seeing it at full display once again in this episode was a huge treat for me. There was nothing too game-changing, as the story itself was straightforward enough (including the plot twist at the end), ... but this is a great watch if you want to dip your toes into this franchise.

Welcome to Quin Decim, mystical bar of fate.

What happens when two people, whether they're strangers or the closest of companions, are pitted against each other in a seemingly mundane contest, with the stakes being their own lives? Suspicions, outrage, deceit, bargaining, and all manner of psychological warfare commence, all in the name of survival. However, is everything as it appears?

------If you have questions or comments about this review, please message me------- Note: I feel this episode 0, if you will, should actually be seen after the first two episodes of the Death Parade TV series. That way, one has an idea what's going on, ... and who the characters are. Part of the mystery of the one-shot may be dispelled, but it made much more sense and was more interesting and compelling having seen some of the series.

Story: 9

Two persons enter, and play what's a seemingly unremarkable game, such as darts, bowling, or in this case: pool. The people have no memory of why or how they've come to be at the Queen Decim, and are given no explanation of why they're being forced to play the game; other than that their lives are on the line. The alternative to playing is explained as "not something they want to experience."

Eventually, after bargaining, attempts at escape, and outright threats, our contestants concede, and begin their life altering game.

Outwardly, we watch two people locked in a simple contest of pool, each demanding no less than victory for themselves, if only for the pride of winning. Inwardly, we see a classic struggle: a clash between souls, with the ultimate reward or price at stake.

The interplay of fear, suspicions, motives, emotions, and the individual thoughts, feelings, and memories that make up the person are a phenomenal conflict within themselves. They lead us to the question- "What will you do to survive?" which everyone can only answer to the best of their ability to do so. Life isn't fair, and rarely presents an opportunity for two souls to be on equal footing in their struggle, but again, our characters find themselves answering a question- "what is it that I have to live for?"

Characters: 10

In this one-shot, we're introduced to Decim, the white haired, steely composed purveyor of the Queen Decim. The Queen Decim, an enigmatic bar (and character within itself), with a grand ballroom and game theatre whose only entrance is a pair of elevators ordained with a pair of ornate theatre masks- representing heaven and hell.

Decim's purpose is to ensure that the entrants to the establishment agree to, and carry out their contract to play a random game of chance, enforce the rules, and execute the results. He's a stony, dispassionate man, and seems to take no joy in the games that he has his contestants undertake.

Our two visitors in this episode are an old man, and a young businessman, each with their own Raison d'être. Neither has a clue as to why they're in the Queen Decim, playing pool for their life, but both have the same goal: win. As their fates unfold, so do their pasts- their memories begin to return to them- and alters the path that their life henceforth is set on.

Art: 9

Excellently colored. Dark, ominous shades permeate the show. A miasma of blacks, purple, reds, and blues set the foreboding tone. Beautifully hand drawn characters are very consistent, and the anguish, the swell of victory, and the crush of defeat are very evident in the body language and facial designs. Moving.

Sound: 9

Soft BGM, appropriately dark and foreboding. Subtly raises the intensity of the visuals. I felt that the moments of absolute silence were the most oppressive: it allowed the character's speaking to have a much more profound effect, as there were no distractions.

Enjoyment: 9

A very intense and emotionally gripping episode. Twists and turns, and while not much makes sense in the beginning, everything is revealed in due time. While a bit dialogue heavy, and metaphorically challenging, it was absolutely enjoyable. It never felt like a chore to decipher the meanings behind, and has a very interesting outcome. The gloomy atmosphere and sense that something isn't quite right that surround the show are entirely addictive. Left me wanting more.

Overall: 9

I've been looking for a new psychological thriller since finishing Ergo Proxy, and I may have found it. Very excited to see where the TV show is headed.

Death Billiards is the short film that appeared 2 years before the actual series. It is basically only a single Episode. This one would perfectly fit as the 3th Episode.
However, it is also possible to look at it directly at the start, as it could already arouse enormous curiosity and acts as a good opening Episode.


There is nothing new to say about the story or events. It's just not another episode anymore.


In conclusion

You won't miss a thing if you don't look at it. However, it doesn't hurt to add it in the middle, as it simply adds another episode to the series.

This was an enjoyable little movie of 25 mins. Having said that, this feels like it is supposed to be an ova, however it was published as a 25 min short movie. Nevertheless, it is a very nice introduction to its anime series counterpart: Death Parade.

The story is simple in this one but it manages to keep up the tension. The art is incredible, I enjoy the design of every character and I would like to be working in that gorgeous bar! The characters are really intriguing and it makes you want to watch the anime to be able to see more depth about ... them.

Overall, it does not have the same amount of depth as the episodes of the anime but as I said before, it is a nice introduction to the anime, and also to its plot and main two characters.

Death Billiards is a captivating and thought-provoking anime that takes viewers on a thrilling journey of life, death, and the complexities of human nature. Created by Yuzuru Tachikawa, this one-episode anime serves as a prequel to the popular series "Death Parade." With its masterful storytelling, intense psychological battles, and a unique twist, Death Billiards leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

Engaging Premise and Intense Atmosphere:
The premise of Death Billiards is as intriguing as it is mysterious. The story unfolds within a mysterious bar where two strangers find themselves engaged in a high-stakes billiards match. As the game progresses, the true nature of the match is ... revealed – it is a battle for the very souls of the players. The intense atmosphere, filled with tension and uncertainty, grips viewers from the start, creating an immersive experience that keeps them on the edge of their seats.

Complex Characterization and Moral Dilemmas:
Death Billiards excels in its complex characterization, presenting two seemingly ordinary individuals with their own hidden depths and personal struggles. As the billiards match unfolds, their true colors are gradually unveiled, exposing the depths of their humanity and the moral dilemmas they face. The anime delves into themes of remorse, regret, and the fragility of human life, challenging viewers to question their own values and beliefs.

Psychological Battles and Twists:
What truly sets Death Billiards apart is the gripping psychological battles that unfold between the characters. As the game progresses, tension mounts, and strategic maneuvers are employed to gain the upper hand. The anime skillfully portrays the psychological mind games, raising the stakes and keeping viewers guessing until the final moments. Furthermore, a twist in the narrative adds an unexpected layer of complexity, forcing viewers to reassess their assumptions and leaving them astounded by the story's ingenious execution.

Visual Artistry and Sound Design:
The animation in Death Billiards is striking and visually impressive, complementing the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the anime. The use of lighting, color palettes, and character designs further enhance the storytelling, creating an immersive experience for the viewers. The sound design, with its atmospheric background music and well-placed sound effects, adds another layer of depth to the overall viewing experience, intensifying the emotional impact of the narrative.

Thought-Provoking Exploration of Life and Death:
At its core, Death Billiards is a profound exploration of life and death. Through its intricate storytelling and moral dilemmas, the anime raises profound questions about the value of life, the choices we make, and the consequences that follow. It prompts viewers to reflect on their own mortality, the weight of their actions, and the importance of cherishing every moment.

Conclusion:
Death Billiards is a gripping and intellectually stimulating anime that leaves a lasting impression. With its engaging premise, complex characterization, intense psychological battles, and unexpected twists, it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling. It challenges viewers to question their own beliefs and values while exploring profound themes of life, death, and the human condition. Death Billiards is a must-watch for anime enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the screen fades to black.