Ergo Proxy poses as intellectual, but comes off irritatingly confused. In its defense, there are 2-3 episodes that are illuminatingly lucid. But 20+ episodes leave you feeling alone, helpless, and my case, stupid. I’d ask myself, “Does everyone get it but me? What did I miss? Am I that dense?” My insecurities were put to rest when I read reviews of Ergo Proxy (such as the Examiner) that essentially called the show a disappointment.
Story: 6. Without saying too much, the story is ultimately a mystery that involves learning about humanity’s "plan" to ensure the survival of the human race – and the "plan" consisted of multiple contingencies. All of this wont be revealed until episode 26. Of course there are other nuances, relationships, and developments along the “26 episode” way, but much of them are tertiary to the story line.
Reviewers have called Ergo Proxy the ultimate MindF$ck. At first, I was so excited! Because, who doesn't like to get F%cked? Alas, upon watching Ergo, I’m sad to report that my mind is still virgin territory. In fact, the story was so slow, it put me to sleep a few times. And anime almost NEVER puts me to sleep!
The lion’s share of the dialogue in Ergo is boring techno/philosophic babble. There were however moments of fresh respite along the way that provided the viewer with a clearer understanding of the story. (the jeopardy show episode was by far the most helpful/enjoyable episode). But the periods of repose were not strong enough to repair the painfully drawn out narrative. I feel like the series could have just as easily (if not for the better) been abridged to 12 episodes.
Animation and Music: 8. I think the animation and music are redeeming qualities of the show. Animation is set in a very flat/grayish palate to nicely pair with the bleak landscape of the post-apocalyptic world. The ending sequence has Radiohead! I think enough has been said about the anime and music already.
Character: 7. I like Re-L and Vincent. They are likable characters. However, the anime isn’t really a study of character development as it is a study of the character's enlightenment. But one of the joys of a story where the characters come to an epiphany, is to see how their lives are changed as a result. Remember the Matrix, and how, after realizing he was the One, Neo went all uberSayen? Yeah! Unfortunately, we aren’t really given much time to spend with both Re-L and Vincent after the “revelation.” It would be really cool if they made an Ergo Proxy 2, to show Re-L and Vincent do with this newly acquired knowledge.
Enjoyment: 5. There were some memorable moments in Ergo Proxy. However, they were often overshadowed by longer moments of insipid, overly emotional, and BORING episodes. Honestly, after watching all 26 episodes, I want my 600+ minutes back. The last episode is quickly becoming the most flat climax of all time for me.
