Noir has indeed left its mark in the anime genre after its 2001 release. Its influence can definitely be felt in many series of its type such as Madlax and Najica Bltiz. However, this is a series that many people regard as an untouchable classic only because it's old and some consider it the first of its type. I personally look at Gunsmith Cats at least setting the foundation for this, yet that's just me. Anyway, I will definitely give it respect for its overall mature presentation which feels so different when compared to many series of today, that heavily play on the loads of fan service and buckets of blood to mask flaws; but Noir is a very flawed action show despite many things it does well. In truth, this is something one should one day watch solely for historical value and for not much else, because the girls with guns premise has done better.
The series follows Mireille and Kirika as they're hired by different benefactors to perform hits on targets ranging from crooked judges and cops, to retired military officers whom seek to make amends for their bloody past. More often than not, these result in heated gun battles that can be entertaining. In the beginning, the series follows a pretty repetitive formula but there are various story elements revealed working towards a plot. The gun-slinging duo quickly become the hunted, when they learn an organization with a mysterious background called the Soldats have given orders to have them sanctioned.
Noir does a very job with its story but it's not without its problems. There are a couple of weaker stories and it does tend to slow down a bit. The slower paced stories may differ from person to person if they bought into the characters, however the action crowd may find some of these moments to be tiring. Also, even though it works into providing background for the characters and even development, there are just too many flashbacks that interferes with the pacing and at times it just feels like padding. This is particularly annoying since it's usually the same flashbacks over and over; and by this time the appeal is long gone, plus it beats on the themes too much.
The production values are a mixed bag; the animation has moments were it can be very good through some nice choreography during the quick paced gun and hand to hand fights. The use of close ups and quick swipes during some fights are used artistically at times, but during others, it's clear they were meant to manage the budget. Unfortunately, hardcore action fans may find the action to be unfulfilling due to a complete lack of gore. I didn't mind completely the lack of blood, but since the action is in abundance it definitely needed it to enhance the tension.
The backgrounds and landscapes may be the strongest feature concerning the visuals. There are some gorgeous moments of the hazy red sunset producing an ominous feel over the sin-filled cities, along with eerie, dark shades of night time blue. The use of lighting and camera work was used very well inside of mansions, caverns, and monasteries when creating an atmospheric feel. At the same time, there's moments of weakness in the backgrounds. There are far too many stills. Many scenes feel way too awkward with only two characters moving around and talking, while everyone else is in a frozen state. The character designs definitely stand out as quite aggravating; all the opposition are guys in suits with pistols and they quickly lose any appeal as credible threats. Later they get traded for nuns packing heat with the same lame results.
Noir is very far away from being that sacred cow older anime fans will force you to believe it is. The pacing and artwork issues are hard to ignore, the former more than anything else. The lack of a charismatic threat is a blow as well. Now is Noir a complete waste of time? Definitely not, at least one of the main characters revs up the cool factor, and there are some good action-filled moments along with an overall engrossing plot; but I definitely can't shower this with undying praise. I recommend Noir mainly to the curious and most hardcore anime fans.
Highs: Main characters carry the story well, suspense and build up
Lows: Pacing issues, too many flashbacks, weak and repetitive character designs
