Dec 28, 2023
I feel strongly that this is one of the coziest anime's that I've had the pleasure in watching. The story follows Frieren in her journey to understand life and its meaning in a very 'Tolkien of the east' type of way. The only difference here is that there is no end-of-the-world plot device at play, no mythical item to be found or boss to be defeated. How this anime will be remembered largely hinges on if they can find a landing that resonates with the viewers. I feel the one central question this anime tries to examine is, "What is life all about?"
The show begins
...
following Frieren and her adventuring party after they've defeated the Demon King, making clear that the world is now entering an age of relative peace. As a nearly ageless elf, she watches her original companions age over time and laments that she didn't actively value the 10 years adventuring they had spent together and saving the world. After some time has past and some of her party members have passed away, she sets out to form a new party and relive the path north to relive her epic journey in an attempt to commune with those who are no longer living. Upon departing, she takes a young mage apprentice named Fern who, to me, is a fantastically written character that reminds Frieren to stay on task and questions her at every turn to think about her actions. We watch Fern grow up with Frieren as a mentor and almost sister like figure which is unique when considering their sizable age gap. Eventually, the duo begin to fill the party out with a typical fantasy lineup with a tank and healer who you can watch for yourself as the anime progresses.
While the shows premise sounds like many other anime that have come before it, it really separates itself from the pack by having an intense focus on the human experience and our connections to one another. More time is spent in this show around conversing with party members and notable characters, figuring out what characters want, and even eating/sleeping more than this show will ever focus on battle or combat. Suffice to say, the show still contains some great fights and the battles tends to carry a much heavier weight with the audience proportional to how much you've connected with the characters. While the lack of combat might be a deal breaker for some, those who stick around will surely be rewarded by the shows emotional highs of solving problems, uncovering memories, and appreciating time spent with each character.
The show often brings up Fririen's original party's journey and while it is a similar route traveled, this plot device allows her to discover many of the things in her life that she has taken for granted. Whether it be a festival or celebration with her party she missed due to sleeping in, or not telling someone how she felt in a powerful moment, we are able to emotionally relate to her as a viewer. Who hasn't chosen sleep over an important life moment at some point in their life?
The question to me still remains to be see about what Frieren's answer to her life will be. It has all of the makings of an anime masterpiece, from its art, to its music, and emotional writing. Once she has her answer from those she loves and she can put her life into perspective, we will know if this show will remain a masterpiece for years to come. I will be happy to update this review when that day comes but for now, I highly suggest you watch the show and find out why so many people like myself have fallen in love it.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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