Story-10/10
A truly outstanding story. Thrilling enough to have me off the edge of my seat at times. The interaction between the main cast, the dialogue and a considerable amount of plot twists was what made it so special. Even if the second part of the series is much weaker than the first one, it still makes you completely engaged to the story. The main character was what made it so exceptional, as he was unlike any others I had ever seen in other shonen manga. Light Yagami plays the role of the main antagonist, trying to outmanoeuvre and manipulate innocent people by killing them, just for the completion of his own goals. It adds more interest and tension to the viewers, as we slowly find ourselves questioning how an honour student becomes an A class serial killer in such a short time.
Characters-10/10
Amazing characters, with an unforgettable main cast. The reason the second part of the story was considerably weaker was mainly because of L's replacement with Near, who I absolutely despised at that point of time. It just shows you how complex and mysterious L's character was, as his ''friendship'' with Light grew stronger. The game between a psychotic killer and a hero certainly makes you hooked on your TV screen, as it slowly makes you rethink which side you should choose. Like a game of chess, it's unpredictable, it mind boggles your mind until you make your final decision about who the winner should be. And when you find out who wins, you stare at the board in awe. That is exactly how I felt when L died, except for a moment I didn't stare in awe but in disappointment. I could never forgive Near for replacing such a character. But the positives about Light and L made me completely disregard everything negative about Near, and thus this is why I give the character section a perfect score.
Even if I find L's character to be better than Light's, I find myself questioning whether he is my favourite or not. The answer to this question changes every single day, as I really can't decide who is better between them. I would really like to choose L, but I always find myself picking up Light. That's because I can relate to Light more on a personal level. And also because villainous characters are kind of my ''fetish''.
Secondary characters are excellent. Misa's personality might be annoying for some people but I find her perfect as a comic relief character, at least for this kind of anime. As a shinigami, Ryuk plays a fantastic role, same with the Task Force members.
Art-10/10
For a shonen anime the art is outstanding. The animation is probably one of the greatest points about the series, as not only does it capture the scenery perfectly, but it also makes every character move fluently. Despite the minimal movement, every action scene is animated perfectly. Epic scenes like ''I'll take a potato chip and eat it!'' will make you hyperventilate from excitement and pure satisfaction!!!
Sound-10/10
Low of Solipsism, Kira's theme, L's theme, Near's theme and many many many others will always rest in my Ipod, in the Playlist titled : ''Greatest themes of all time''... nuff said...
Enjoyment-10/10
I thoroughly enjoyed Death Note (as you may have guessed)... Before you call me a fan boy, (which I am) I must say that this anime is definitely in my Top 5.
Recommendations:
1) Code Geass
They are both too similar in way too many aspects. Mainly, Lelouch is the next Light Yagami with slight differences...
2) Hunter x Hunter
It has nothing to do with Death Note. But this is too, one of the best shonen manga out there.
