The story talks about the last remnants of humanity cooped up behind amazingly huge walls protecting them from gigantic monsters known as Titans. You are introduced to the main characters: Eren Jaeger, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert who are childhood friends that innocently dream of going beyond the walls and discovering the real world out there (just like any kid would!) This peaceful setting is disrupted when, out of the blue, a huge 60 foot Titan peeks from behind the 50 feet walls right at the puny humans and goes ahead to kick the gate that is sheltering humanity from the woes of the outside world that the Titans inhabit, wide open.
This is where the story starts to unfold around the mystery surrounding these Titans and why they are adamant on "eating" humanity as a whole.
All throughout every episode you will find yourself attached to every single character from here onwards. Some unceremoniously die, some have naive thoughts and goals to what they should do in life, some want to take the easy way out of their strife, and some just go with the flow because they don't think they are strong-willed to fight back. All in all you will be attached to characters that exhibit real human qualities.
Simple concept for a story, isn't it? Nope it ain't.
This isn't your run-of-the-mill monster/horror/doomed humanity anime. People fail to realize that the Attack on Titan setting is exactly the same setting we all live in our real lives. It reminds you that anyone who is bigger, better, and stronger will not only devour you whole, but will also devour your entire dreams, hopes, and future with it.
And this main character, Eren Jaeger...this kid, you actually root for this wide eyed enthusiastic little bugger - who adamantly with all his heart wants to turn the tide whether it be for better or for worse. He knows that he has to FIGHT in order to go anywhere in life, and he isn't letting these monsters ruin his will to live; his will to take matters into his own hands.
It's very rare to have a character pump you up. It serves to show how willpower alone can do wonders - even if you are only human.
The art is absolutely breathtaking. The colors are so vivid and you honestly can't get enough of the lush background scenes. The action sequences were awesomely superb, especially with the surprisingly fluid 3D Maneuver Gear sequences. As for the characters the first thing you will notice are the EYES. They are so vividly colored and illustrated you can't help but find yourself drawn to them.
The music is simply outstanding. It fits very well with the mood of the story. Starting from the opening sequence to the ending credits. The BGM and SFX were especially very well placed whenever a character is seen flying around using the 3D Maneuver Gear. The ambiance and that feeling of dread that emanates from the music captures you from the very first episode. Honestly, if anyone hates the music I will royally Jaeger your ass!
Unlike the manga, the anime didn't do justice or make way for any sort of character development. First timers wouldn't be THAT drawn to the characters from the get-go. But the development is still there, you just need to look closely. Yep, closer....OH there it is! I do hope that everyone reading this review would give them a fleeting chance if any. If you're still not convinced, then go ahead and read the manga. You will be equally blown away, anyways.
I haven't enjoyed an anime like this in a very long while. As I said in the very beginning of the review, animes nowadays have only cliched themes and seem to just bring out a yawn rather than any hint of interest. I've been so picky that I almost did not watch Attack on Titan (*GASP* the blasphemy!)
It epically portrayed a lot of simple concepts and elements that are most importantly HUMAN. It teaches you how easy it is to have hope inch further and further away from your grip and how easy it is to just give up. Though if no one around you is willing to stand tall and face adversity, it doesn't mean that YOU have to be scared out of your wits too.
I urge everyone to watch Attack on Titan...then go ahead and read the manga, because if you'll be as hooked as I am then I'm sure you wouldn't even be able to bear waiting for the second season to come around the corner.
Happy Jaegering!
