Story (9)- The story is simply riveting. With plot twists that keep you on your toes as you watch, an interesting concept, and the strange diclonius species, Elfen Lied really provides a story that impacts you. Not only does it allow you as the viewer to perceive certain things differently then another person would, making it a terrific topic of conversation in Otaku groups, but it also gives you insight on discrimination and really impacts you.
Art (8)- The art is absolutely beautiful, in a sort of messed up way. The way that certain scenarios are shown with this art style really improves the tone that the show is trying to set.
Sound (9)- Lilium is an absolutely gorgeous work of music, and it fits this anime so perfectly as its opening theme. The way it seems to haunt you and sway through you mind is incredible, and after you watch the show, as you listen to the song, all of the emotions and thoughts that you experienced as you watched come rushing back in waves.
Character (10)- The characters are by far the best thing about Elfen Lied. There are always going to be flaws in the initial characters themselves, but most of the time those flaws provide characters with a personality that you as the viewer can relate to, or sometimes even despise. The whole point of a character is to move along the plot and make the viewers react. Elfen Lied's characters did precisely that. The way that the characters were fleshed out and developed really helped the overall plot and just made everything better. You'll also find the characters to be extremely loveable, yet at the same time you hate them.
Enjoyment (10)- I enjoy most anime, but this one really stuck with me. I couldn't seem to get it out of my mind, the intriguing characters and the original story really resonated as different amongst the crowd of your typical anime.
Overall (9)- This anime was a very enjoyable one, and one I think many would enjoy, but at the same time I wouldn't recommend this anime to everyone. Certain things about this anime wouldn't mix well certain people, not because those people are flawed or "don't know a good anime", but just because they won't enjoy the anime. So if you enjoy an action anime that shows aspects of horror and romance, then this is a great one to check out!
