Reviews

Terrorism is a very touchy subject. Everyone has their own opinion about the concept as a whole and what should be done about it. Truthfully, terrorism is an awful thing that plagues the world today and is not something that should be taken lightly. But Zankyou no Terror (or Terror in Resonance as some know it) takes the idea behind terrorism and handles it, well, beautifully. The 'terrorists' in the show aren't out to destroy because they can or just because they feel like it, but instead they have a very deep purpose behind their acts of violence...or rather, nonviolence. While the two boys, 9 and 12, do destroy property, they plan out their attacks so carefully that no one gets more than a little scrape during the commotion. They manage this by hacking into computers or setting off alarms or even getting the police involved in the case. They want to commit these crimes, but no one needs to get hurt.

Now as for the show itself, it's rather standard. Terrorists make a plot, police try to bring them down, one side stands victorious at the end of the day, repeat. It would get very dull or standard if not for the characters. The characters are truly what make this show (well, them and the opening, "Trigger", which is a beautiful song). Characters range from being light-hearted and kind terrorists to a shy, reclusive girl who wants nothing more than to be bolder, and washed-up cop that is striving to take the terrorists down, no matter what the cost. The characters are truly the greatest aspect of this show and without them, it wouldn't be worth the watch.

As stated, terrorism is a very sensitive subject for many people and that may turn them away from the show. But here's the thing: this show handles such a horrid subject so well that it's almost perfectly done. The creators don't try to make light of the topic and many times even the terrorists know what they're doing is wrong, but it's all they can do in order to fulfill their wishes. There aren't plot holes left at the end of everything and the whole story is wrapped up nicely. In fact, this show may have one of the most emotional endings and it's so perfect for the show, but I won't say more in case I spoil anything. Bottom line is that you shouldn't miss this show.

Positives:
+"Trigger" is a beautiful opening
+Characters and character development are near flawless and it really makes the show
+The topic of terrorism is handled perfectly
+You will experience quite a range of emotions from watching this show
+Ending is amazing and fits the show very well
+Animation is very solid the whole way through
+Soundtrack is beautiful and well composed

Negatives:
-Only 12 episodes (though, I'm not sure this is such a bad thing in this case)
-Some characters behave very unrealistically. I'm sorry but when you're a terrorist, you can't afford those kinds of liabilities
-A few aspects of the main story aren't full explained or are not explained well

As I sit here, I can't think of many negative aspects for this show. Even the ones above are slightly half-assed. Yet, I know it wasn't flawless at all. Perhaps it just didn't sit well with me. But, overall, Zankyou no Terror is a beautiful show that handles a touchy issue very well and is one of the more unique anime experiences I have seen.
And that is why Zankyou no Terror AKA Terror in Resonance gets an 8/10