However, if you actually want to think while watching a show, if you would like a show to convey deep and profound messages through use of exquisite narrative techniques, if you want an anime in which there is no single wasted scene and which requires you to be paying attention at all times, then Paranoia Agent is a show that you absolutely must watch.
Story (10/10)
Paranoia Agent's story is undoubtedly its strongest point. What appears to be a simple criminal case at first glance unfolds to be something much deeper and interesting, and the underlying story ties every single scene of the anime together. Themes such as depression, mob mentality and willful ignorance are analyzed on the scale of the individual and the society. The attentive viewer will realize that the entire anime is, in fact, an extended metaphor. The scenes that seem to be senseless and irrational (and supernatural) are the product of an insightful metaphorical approach to the themes explored. It is necessary to emphasize this: The anime doesn't have a single wasted scene. Each scene is there to make the story more powerful and meaningful. Because of this, and the peculiar way in which the story is presented to the viewer, this anime has very high rewatching value. In fact, it would be a commendable feat to understand everything by only watching the anime once.
It is difficult to get any more specific about the story without spoiling some elements of the story, therefore I will refrain from doing so. If you want to understand and appreciate the story, keep an open mind and be alert when you are watching this piece of art. To those who are willing to listen, a beautiful tone is there, waiting to be heard.
Art (10/10)
The art style of Paranoia Agent can be described with the single word "unique". It is starkly different from the style of art common in the industry, and no character is drawn in a bland manner. Every character is memorable and have features which reflect their personalities. Changes in personality also show in the appearance of the characters.
Sound (9/10)
The tracks are not memorable on their own, and I never found myself humming one of the soundtracks in Paranoia Agent. However, the tunes complement the scenes almost perfectly, and no soundtrack feels out of place. Of course, you wouldn't have time to leisurely enjoy the soundtrack in an anime like this, and the music was made with this important consideration in mind. No soundtrack feels overwhelming, allowing you to easily concentrate on what is happening while providing an appropriate background theme for every scene.
Characters (10/10)
Being a character driven anime, Paranoia Agent delivers spectacularly. Each character is explored in depth, and no character feels unrealistic or out of place. The characters have their flaws, and it can be said that Paranoia Agent focuses on these flaws, their causes and effects, and their nature. It is more about the bad about the good, and certain moments reminded me of Death Parade which uses a similar narrative method to explore the personality of its characters, albeit in a much different setting. You come to know the characters, their good sides and their bad sides, and the changes experienced by the characters is a fundamental aspect of Paranoia Agent's narrative.
Enjoyment (10/10)
I thoroughly enjoyed the anime, however I can't confidently assert that my sentiments would be shared by others. As I've stated, Paranoia Agent is not for everyone, and some people may find it extremely boring and hard to follow. For me, I was captivated by the lingering mystery, the feeling of thrill and the masterful extended metaphor which reveals itself later in the story. My advice, of course, is that you should try this out no matter what your initial thoughts may be. You may be disappointed, or you may be amazed. Watch to find out which it will be for you.
