This is a great anime. Just because the title is Gangsta doesn't mean i'm going to deduct points because the politics and car chase scenes weren't super deep and in every episode. Nor just because those elements didn't compare to something like The Departed also doesn't mean it can't be called Gangsta nor will I rate it down for not being some other mob movie/show I've seen. This is it's own show...not one of those. If you want Departed or the like, watch Departed. If you want an anime with gangsters in it and it's very own stories about those individuals...well you got it.
I for one loved the characters. Worick and Nic are now at the top of my list in anime characters that I truly love....badass, adult characters, not teeny boppers. So if you're also looking for some teen/school show with 12 year old leads....don't watch this then rate it down because you're disappointed. This is a mature anime with adult characters.
Having said that this is also a somewhat fantasy/super power type film to an extent, as it is about some individuals which posses superhuman strength. It's not magic to be clear though, so don't misinterpret "fantasy" nor is it super heroes, but I'm just not sure what else to call it - think drug-induced super human abilities. I for one enjoyed that aspect versus it just being a regular mob type story. Also after reading a few other reviews....who says that mob bosses all have to be assholes. Sure some are, but some without a doubt use their power and influence to help others, even if unlawfully, so I'm not going to get my panties in a wad like some just because some of the mob bosses partake in good deeds. That's not surprising actually.
In summary this show has a very enjoyable story. I will note however, there does not seem to be a Season 2 (at least at the moment) and Season 1 very much ends as if there was going to be a Season 2 to finish showing what happened. I will not rate this down for that though, because lots of series do this (end on cliff hangers and pick it up in the next season - just watch Game of Thrones if you don't believe me and that show is f'ing the best ever). Anyway, just be warned though....if you want closure, maybe don't watch this. I for one however, am glad I watched it and will be hoping every day that they do another season of this awesome anime. It is very refreshing to me to see adult shows with adults..... A++
I by the way, was on the border between giving this an 8 or a 9, and I will say I definitely feel it was better than a lot of the shows I rated as an 8, I'm not certain it's as good as some of the ones I rated as a 9. If i could give it an 8.75 I would...but for now it will have settle for an 8 since that's not an option.
UPDATE - the more I let this show and chars sink in the more of I love it, so making the plunge and rounding this up to a 9 (did have it as an 8 initially). It truly is an exceptional show....I just PRAY they come to their senses and do another season.
