The story follows Shigeo Kageyama (or popularly referred to as Mob), a middle schooler with psychic powers which he deems as almost a burden because he is unable to control them and in certain instances has done more harm than good to those around him. Both seasons focus on his development to become a better person, to acknowledge and learn to control his emotions. However, season 2 takes this development to an even higher level, delving deeper into Mob's emotional state and personal morals. Though the plot might seem one-track in its narrative, it is not necessarily the case as the series introduces a lively, diverse secondary cast that is not inserted just for the expense of Mob's development, but display their own growth and are pivotal to Mob's own growth as well.
There are many golden moments throughout this season, some of my personal favorites being Reigen's arc, the first episode involving Emi, and World Domination arc.
Mob Psycho 100's true charm and uniqueness lies in its ability to subvert from the shonen mainstream. Categorized under the shonen genre, I'm pleasantly surprised with how strong the slife-of-life aspects are exemplified in this show. As of late, the shonen genre has been inflated with the same recycled trope of the grand protagonist's journey of becoming the strongest hero and trying to save everyone and or the world. Although these types of stories are enjoyable in their own right, Mob Psycho's pivotal message of kindness distinguishes it from the former. It's such a refreshing narrative in the midst of a plethora of series focused on self gain, narratives that are unforgivingly cruel/dark, and apathetic characters. Being kind to oneself and others is one of the many indispensable messages from the series. With kindness, people can grow and change. We can see this with characters like Dimple and Mogami.
BONES really went above and beyond with the production quality. As an animation major, the entire series from start to finish was an absolute treat. It would take at least years for me to look over all the amazing sakuga from choreographed fight scenes to even emotional character acting. The animators really went 100% (pun very intended) and the effort clearly shows through the quality. Sajou no Hana provided wonderful openings and endings to the series, inserted into scenes at the most perfect of moments, "Gray" and "Ikiru Hitobito" being my personal favorites. Although many of the tracks used were from season 1 save for a couple new tracks (that I can't wait for to be released!!), it still effectively sets the tone and mood for the scenes it's inserted into.
I had initially given the second season a rating of 9, but after some deep thought and contemplation, it really does deserve a 10. Its message has touched and affected me on a much more deeper level than I had initially thought. Maybe what really keeps the world going round is kindness. After finishing a series, I'm mostly left with a quiet and satisfied emotion (usually disappears within a week or two), but after finishing Mob Psycho 100, I'm filled with an enchanting magic that only a few selected anime series I've finished have given me the same feeling.
Mob Psycho 100 in of itself is a completely enjoyable watch, but what you may take away from the show is what makes it even more special.
I'm definitely looking forward to season 3!
