Casshern Sins takes place in the far future, in a quiet, post-apocalyptic earth devoid of almost all life. In this bleakness, long after major events have taken place, is where our story begins. Throughout the 24 episodes we see several different landscapes. The world might be barren, but it can also be very beautiful, with pockets of wonder hidden away waiting to be found.
The Characters:
In this world, and in this story, there are large number of individuals, each with their own goals, dreams, quirks, and ambitions. The story takes it's time to give a brief focus on many individuals in this world, letting us see a sneak peek into the lives of those who wander these desolate lands. Some have lost their way, others have found a reason to live and a passion to pursue. A few of the story's central characters are highly mysterious, with not enough about them being explained to paint a full picture. I suppose that's how life is sometimes, and you will never fully be able to understand everyone.
The Theme:
Overall this is a story about appreciating life as a mortal. When one is immortal, it becomes difficult or impossible to truly have a fire burning inside you for life. As a mortal, life is precious, slipping away, and you need something pushing you forward, something to live for, to truly feel alive. This theme is explored through the stories off all characters, whether they're only seen for a single episode, or a consistent presence in the story.
The Art:
This world is portrayed in such a unique and well-realized style. Thick lines, high contrasting colors, a blur effect, a loose sketching look in some moments, and clean, clear, striking visuals in others. This story is shown as truly a work of art, where each episode has multiple frames that look like standalone art pieces worthy of being framed or applied as a desktop wallpaper. I love simply looking at this anime, and had paused a few times just to appreciate what I was seeing.
The Music:
The music fit the feel of the show, not being hugely memorable but doing well to enhance the mood of any given moment. Although there is a song later on that I do think becomes overplayed, and starts to wear out its welcome.
Overall:
Overall this is a bleak world with suffering individuals all trying to stay alive and carry on with their reason for living. Some peoples reasons change over time, and others die before before they really figure out what they want. With enough mystery, action, and likeable characters to keep the show entertaining and intriguing, there's more than enough in this barren world to keep any viewer satisfied.
