The weakest part of the entire series is the plot. Basically, there isn't one in the long run. It boils down to a formulaic pattern. Characters roam for adventure, characters find a problem, characters solve the problem (usually in defeating the bad guy). Thankfully, this isn't really the point of the series though. Honestly, the very simple plot keeps the focus on the points that do matter most to the series: characters, art, and sound.
Besides a hiccup on episode 4 (i don't even know what happened there) the series is consistent on art quality. It handles the fast paced action excellently. Every action feels like there is weight behind it. The strength and power of the blows and actions are translated well. The later episodes present a unique twist and flair to battles and environments as they get bigger and in completely new areas. It truly is one of the best action oriented art i've seen.
The sound is top notch as well. The actual amount of variety that the series offers is pretty low compared to other series, but the amount of ways they use them is impressive. One song can serve for an emotional scene, suspense moment, and more. On a smaller scale, the battle sound effects are great and the voices match their personalities. Even the intro and end scene songs are great. It all just meshes well.
The absolute strongest area that the show has is in the characters. The characters shine above the rest even with the other excellent pieces. The actual character progression is outstanding. Simon in particular starts as a boy and becomes a man by the end. He quivers and shys away from a fight and just can't believe in himself. But despite this, Simon grows to understand himself on a deeper level and works through his problems. The better part of this is that all the characters grow in their own way. They deal with deaths, tragedy, success, and their journey together and show their unstoppable determination. I could write so much more on this, but that would take all day to finish.
This series probably deserves a more in depth look on every level. My love for these characters translates far beyond just watching the series. It inspires one to go beyond their own expectations and to aspire to be better in every way. It shows how people step up and makes the hard decisions. It shows how humanity isn't bound by walls built by others, but that they can reach limits the defy logic. It leaves me inspired and rearing to face the world. My only hope is that this review does it justice.
