Guilty Crown is centered around a boy who discovers he has an untapped ability in his right arm, after meeting a mysterious girl. This happens during a time when Japan has been infected with a deadly virus and had requested the help of the United Nations. The plot moves quickly and has many twists and turns, as well as some cliches.
In terms of technicality, the Art, Composition, Animation, and Sound design are superb (in my own opinion). Character design was rather unique and above par in many instances and the interactions between them did have some dynamic moments. Composition (editing and cinematography), was as well occasionally unique and well done and kept me interested in the show (all perversions aside). Good use of effects and decent 3D work on the machines in the show added an extra touch to the show. This is, however, typical for such a studio like Production IG. This leads into Animation, work on the animation itself was well done. The show had a good balance of smooth animation and from what I remember, not too many jumpy scenes. Sound was also superb, music was outstanding and well composed (both themes and original soundtrack). So in terms of technical specifications, this show is of the charts for me.
The story, however, did not hold out as well. The first 3-5 episodes were among the best in drawing the audience in. The story was dynamic, fast paced and covered ground fast and in a dynamic manner. However, as the the series progressed, the show slowed and became rather cliche-ic. Plot-holes were bountiful and irrationality soiled the great technical work. The show picked backed up its original pace as it reached the end but then the end itself was rather rushed. The premise of the show was good, and the writers, I believe really had the potential to make something great out of this show. Alas, the story would most closely be this shows Achilles Heel and to any perceptive anime watcher out there who enjoys a good story, this is not the one.
Guilty Crown, however, still is good entertainment. The story, although not the most original and most enthralling, is still decent and is good middle of the road entertainment. The plot could use tweaks but still has the ability to stand on its own two feet. So if you are interested in watching an action-packed, mildly mentally-inticing anime, this may be for you. It's good entertainment. I enjoyed it. Maybe you would too.
