Reviews

Zankyou no Terror is a toboggan ride that whisks you into its world immediately, with every minute of its 11-episode run speeding you down its intricate plot until you, completely satisfied and yet still yearning for more, reach its end. Though it’s an anime, it has none of the characteristics which turn away casual viewers of the genre—no fanservice, no awkward situations involving siblings, no overly forced comedy relief. It’s a show that takes itself seriously throughout its entire run, and doesn’t suffer for it. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys shows with a gripping plot, a phenomenal soundtrack, and a cast of well-written and dynamic characters. Oh, and I forgot to mention: the art is excellent in both direction and execution. It’s easier to explain if you just watch the anime.

Let’s begin with the plot. To pare it down to its most basic form, Zankyou no Terror is an action drama that focuses mainly on two young terrorists from Japan. The premise itself is quite novel, though the anti-hero protagonist has been done in other popular shows like Death Note. As the first episode finishes, you’re left with numerous questions regarding who the two teens are and why they’re blowing up building. And after each successive episode, the director Shinichiro Watanabe leaves you with more questions. When the show ends, it’s a very satisfying ending. It makes sense, and yet you’re still clamoring for more. At least, I was. So yes, the plot is VERY interesting, though I don’t wish to spoil it for anyone who may watch.

As for the soundtrack, I’ll say this: not only does it have incredible production quality, but it also fits the atmosphere of the show EXTREMELY well. This is especially true for the tracks that play during emotional scenes. The OST as a whole has an unreal feel to it that mirrors the world that Watanabe builds. Though the show is ostensibly set in present day Japan, the main characters and their actions make the events that unfold seem impossible in our world. The OST fits this scenario extremely well.

The characters, oh, the characters. The show has a relatively small cast, and I admire this choice because it allowed Watanabe to develop each character well with only 11 episodes. Nine, or Sphinx Number 1, is very serious about what they (Nine and Twelve) set out to do. His precision and cautiousness balance out Twelve’s (Sphinx Number Two) carefree playfulness, and the dynamic between the two is beautiful to see. The two grow as they accomplish their mission, though in subtle ways. Lisa Mishima is more of a flat character, being clumsy until the very end, but she doesn’t get annoying often. Now, the main detective who is on the Sphinx case, Shibazaki, is a veritable badass. Just search up a picture of him and admire that facial hair. Aesthetics aside, Shibazaki is the epitome of the hard-eyed detective who puts his life and salary on the line to pursue the truth.

The art is beautiful. Enough said there. Well, not really. Character designs are wonderful. Settings fit the atmosphere. Everything is very solid.

I would give the show a 10/10, because it’s a complete package that fits into 11 episodes. It’s a relatively short watch, but is extremely worthwhile.