Okay so I’ll start with the art and music. As with Perfect Blue, the art style is a lot more realistic than most anime, which I feel makes it easier to appreciate the imperfections of the characters and their scenarios, rather than being distracted by how adorable everything is. On top of that this emphasizes the contrast to the surreal sequences, and it really does fit in with this type of anime.
In terms of music, I am biased because I love music by Susumu Hirasawa (such as Byakkoya no Musume at the beginning of Paprika), and I thought the opening track slotted right into place alongside other elements. It was a piece with haunting lyrics fitting the visuals, yet a cheerful-sounding tune which reflected the contrariness anime perfectly. The only complaint I would have about the music would be the ending theme, which I found boring. However, I understand that this also worked with the dreamy quality of the anime, so I wouldn’t complain too much.
The characters in the series were reminiscent of other characters portrayed in Satoshi Kon’s films – despite having believable flaws, they were generally likeable. The plot flowed well due to this realism, since there were no characters that stood out as being over the top or out of place. I do admit, however, that they were seriously messed up. Without revealing spoilers, I have to give a very short cross section: a trio of online suicide buddies, serious personality disorders, people who find it impossible to accept reality (this pretty much covers everyone actually). The characters really do make the series, and their reactions and emotions drove me to keep watching
At first the series seems to be centred on the exploits of two detectives, looking each episode at a new person with issues in their life, but it takes a different turn at around episode 8, which may put some people off. Basically I would compare the plot with Paprika: although at points you may have no idea where it is going, in the end you should definitely catch up and feel happy for sticking around. Again, to avoid spoilers, I will simple say that the main plot is about an entity called “Shonen bat” which is targeting people, and the investigation to catch said entity, whilst the viewer is shown snapshots from the lives of its victims… sounds ambiguous but I don’t want to give anything away, sorry!
Humorous at times, the story seems to veer randomly, preferring to give time to character development: a good decision I felt, because the characters, as implied above, are the most interesting aspect of the series. As with other Satoshi Kon creations, there are of course surreal moments, seamlessly integrated into the rest – and they contribute to the series in making it so meaningful!
The bottom line is that, like Paprika, this series is something to be experienced. I found it fun to watch, if a little strange, and the plot should stick with you for a while – it should make you feel content at the end. If you are a fan of any other of Satoshi Kon’s creations, it is definitely a must see. For other people, I would recommend it as well – even if only to test it out at first!
I would have liked to give the series a10 out of 10, because it brings to the industry what many series don't: both enjoyment and meaning. However, I could not bring myself to give that score. A 10 from me is very hard earned, and although others may disagree with me, I believe that Paranoia Agent was just out of reach, perhaps being let down by certain odd choices to fill up episodes.
