Story- Only one word "Unique": The story is comparable to many Shakespearean tragedies, such as "Othello", "Romeo and Juliet" and "Julius Caesar" because of the violence and also the fact it is not going to end happily. The story at first maybe overwhelming or confusing because a lot of the beginning dialog between Kohta and Yuka is mainly about the death of Kohta's father and sister eight years prior, but comes together very well in the end.
Animation- There was nothing very special about the animation, many animes use a similar style, but what stands out is the opening credit's artwork.
Sound- The sound is excellent. It sets the mood for every scene in the series, whether it is cheerful, sad or confrontational.
Character- For only a 13/14 episode series, the character development was top-notch. The characters are very human whether they are villains or not. Most of the main characters in the series have a story to tell about their life which sets the mood for the series.
Enjoyment- I enjoyed the series a lot but there were some parts I did not enjoy and had a hard time watching because of the extreme cruelty, but without it the series would not have had the same impact.
Overall- A Masterpiece. Elfen Lied's main theme centers on love and how it can bring out the good or evil in others. For a Sci-Fi, drama, horror, love story, this anime was put together solidly with the attempt to make the viewer question life or some of the things that happen to people in their lives. This is a serious and adult series containing many dark aspects of humanity, but at the same time attempts to point out the kindness that people display to others as well. I never know that an anime could be so intellectual and emotional at the same time. It is a most watch if you can stomach some of the scenes and I would also recommend this series to anyone who enjoys tragic love stories.
