Itâs undeniable that anime as an entertainment medium has a fair number of series that are considered classics. Among these, Cowboy Bebop is a name you hear relatively often. First released in 1998, only its first half was aired initially due to its âadult themesâ and today it invokes nostalgia in many viewers. Certainly, compared to other shows of its time it has aged fantastically due to strong characterisation, a tone that stands out from the masses even today and animation that screams âvintageâ rather than simply âoldâ. Now, after having watched Cowboy Bebop myself, I can see why it was so prominent back in its day while still feeling that it doesnât have the spark needed to be considered truly ageless.
What Cowboy Bebop does really well, in comparison, is its characterisation. Theyâre deeper than your average fare and consistent to boot, as well as being fun to watch. For all of that, however, theyâre not particularly memorable and I put part of that down to the lack of overarching story and part down to the fact that they develop independently of each other rather than via interaction. In the episodes that are important for characterisation, the individual of the hour tends to go off and do their own thing with minimal contact with the rest of the crew. While it reflects their tenuous links to each other well and makes sense, it also renders it harder to make the group as a whole stand out.
Summary â When Cowboy Bebop first aired it would have made major waves, so I have no trouble understanding why viewers still look back on it fondly. The animation and characters have stood the test of time excellently and just about every other aspect of the show could stand up to newer counterparts without shame. Unfortunately, the series as a whole lacks the cohesion granted by overarching plotlines that is needed to really shine and make itself memorable in the current day, and its meagre attempts at cultivating that are more detrimental than enjoyable. Still, if you like more gritty and relatively serious anime then Cowboy Bebop is well worth a try. After all, itâs a classic for a reason.
"Wow isn't this the longest review I've Typed in... Now my fingers hurt this will do! I hope you guys enjoyed this...."
Score: 7.5/10 â Enjoyable
