Reviews

Well here it goes, my first anime review. And what better way to start than with a series I hold very high in regards to my anime viewing experience. Yes, Death Note is definitely one of those shows that most people can get into (whether they are a seasoned anime viewer or not) with quiet ease. This is a show that you can probably convince some of your "normal" friends to sit down and watch without explaining too much before hand. I believe it's this accessibility that garners the respect it has in most anime viewers eyes. At its core it is a very cut-and-dry, good vs. evil story, something that many people enjoy in storytelling. Its not to say that every single person who watches it will enjoy it, (the theme of death definitely won't sit well with more sensitive viewers) but I'd be hard pressed to find any of the people I've recommended it to that come back disappointed after viewing it. It's definitely one of the few shows where the premise is actually upheld by the plot quiet nicely. Be for warned, this show does have an addiction factor to it, you'll probably want to move on to next episode as soon as the previous is finished. Now for a quick breakdown of the specs:

Story: 9/10
As I mentioned above, the show does have a very cut-and-dry, good vs. evil plot. You've got two main players: Light Yagami and L, and they are in an all out battle of the wits. There is a definite back-and-forth to their battle, each exchanging blows, one after another. This makes for a entertaining cat and mouse game for the series that I think many find appealing. But then the second arc starts, and something gets "lost" in between. Its not to say that the second arc doesn't have the same cat and mouse dynamic to it, but game definitely changes. However, it all comes together for what I consider a suitable end for the series. Overall its a great story.

Art: 9/10
If apple's are a core motif of this anime, then the art and animation are like a finely aged cider. The play with color, the absolutely distinct and iconic character design, you know these scenes, characters and locations by heart. But take time to pause the show to appreciate the frames. You may get something from them. 😊

Sound: 9/10
Oh boy does Death Note have a good sound track! I remember downloading lots of the music to my Ipod after watching this. The opening and ending songs are great! (The second opening being one of my favourites) The music definitely does its job setting the tone for the series

Characters: 10/10
If there is one part of this show that hits the nail on the head, it's characters. Every single character in this show is memorable, each with a personality different from the next. Hell, one of the best characters in this show (Matt) has almost no lines and probably has fans galore! The interactions between characters provide some of the best dialogue I've ever seen in anime. At the end of the day, characters are at the very heart of any show, and Death Note treats its cast like real people.

~ Final Thoughts ~
Death Note is a spectacular anime, whether you like it or not. I will admit, the second half is alot different from the first, but the overall experience is enjoyable. If you looking for a show to get friends into anime, this one is a gateway drug. A definite recommendation for anybody who wants see anime at some of its best.

Overall: 9/10

Thanks for reading!

~}Out like a Scout{~

*This review was originally composed in 2013; I recently have gone back to it to make make small revisions.