The plot line of this series is one of the most clever ever conceived. The entire of idea of a death note that can kill people with just knowledge of there name and face is completely unique with nothing else like it out there. This then evolves into a story of a genius battle of wits between 2 characters on a level of their own cleverness that makes the Criminal Minds writers look like they sit around and drool all day long. There is even an explanation of other world shinigami who's world is touched over although is not too impressive, although this is obviously for the purpose of wanting everything to be set on the characters in the regular world and their interactions. The evolving mystery is likely the greatest of the mystery genre of anime of all time.
Art(8/10)
The designs for this show are done well with the character L being the by far most memorable as one of the greatest designed characters. Reminiscent of what is described as the look for the lead protagonist of the Artemis Fowl youth novels. This is topped with an awkwardness to the maximum and a unique sitting position imitating its gensukusha Taugumi Ohba. There is the frequent use of colours to represent people thinking just as studio Madhouse likes to use frequently.
Sound(9/10)
This series is absolutely amazing with its music. The backround music used in the series is absolutely incredible as it perfectly sets the moment and can make any moment intense as proven with the now infamous "potato chip" scene. I believe it sounds sort of like a medieval use of an electric guitar. There is also the 1st opening and closing songs which are very good as they present the darkness and themes involved in the story. The 1st ending song is completely different from the melodic first in a heavy metal barrage of Death Note although it manages to present the essence of the 2nd season just as well as the 1st. The 2nd ending theme also does the same.
Character(9/9)
The characters are lead by the main two Light Yagami and L who both posses incredible intellect and cleverness. L being one of the most incredible characters who possesses both the most awkward and genius characteristics of the series next to the very charismatic and equally as genius Light Yagami. The side characters are not special although none are boring. The weak point is the introduction of the character Near in the 2nd half who seems simply as a complete rip off of L.
