8.2 / 10 (based on 5536 reviews)
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2 seasons, 22 episodes, 24-minute runtime
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In the realm of anime, stories about war, mecha, and the human condition are common. Yet, every so often, a series like “86” emerges, distinguishing itself by how it tackles these themes. Released in 2021, “86” is not just another entry in the saturated genre of science fiction and mecha anime. It’s a profound narrative that delves into the complexities of war, discrimination, and the resilience of the human spirit. This article explores “86” in detail, examining its storyline, characters, themes, and the unique elements that set it apart.
The Premise
At its core, “86” is set in a world ravaged by war. The Republic of San Magnolia has been under attack by the autonomous drones of the neighboring Giadian Empire. To the public eye, the Republic fights back with its own drones, leading its citizens to believe that their battles are bloodless. However, this is a facade. In reality, the “drones” operated by the Republic are manned by the Eighty-Sixers—humans considered less than human and forced to fight in place of the Republic’s Alba citizens.
The story follows Shinei Nouzen, the leader of a squadron in the 86th district, and Vladilena Milizé, a handler from the Republic who oversees the operations of Shinei’s squad. Lena, unlike her peers, sympathizes with the Eighty-Sixers and seeks to understand and support them, despite the vast cultural and societal chasm between them.
Characters and Development
One of the show’s strengths lies in its character development. Shinei Nouzen, also known as “The Undertaker,” is a complex character, marked by the scars of war yet driven by a strong sense of duty and protection for his squad. On the other hand, Vladilena Milizé, or Lena, serves as the moral compass of the story, challenging the status quo and the dehumanization of the Eighty-Sixers.
The dynamic between Shinei and Lena is particularly compelling. Despite their initial communication being limited to military operations, their interactions gradually uncover the depths of their characters, beliefs, and the common ground they share in their fight for justice and recognition for the Eighty-Sixers.
Themes and Messages
“86” is rich in themes that resonate with real-world issues, making it more than just a story about robots and wars. It delves into the ugliness of racism, the cost of war, and the question of what it means to be human. The discrimination faced by the Eighty-Sixers is a direct commentary on societal divisions and the ease with which those in power dehumanize others to justify atrocities.
Moreover, the series doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of war. It depicts the psychological toll on soldiers, the loss of innocence, and the struggle to retain humanity in the midst of chaos. These elements are woven seamlessly into the narrative, inviting viewers to reflect on the consequences of conflict and the value of empathy and understanding.
Setting and World-Building
The world of “86” is meticulously crafted, with a clear distinction between the technologically advanced, seemingly utopian Republic of San Magnolia and the war-torn districts of the Eighty-Sixers. This contrast is not just visual but is deeply embedded in the society’s structure, highlighting the disparity between the privileged and the oppressed.
The use of technology, especially the mecha known as Juggernauts piloted by the Eighty-Sixers, is another aspect where “86” shines. Unlike typical mecha anime where the machines often seem invincible, the Juggernauts are shown to be fragile, symbolizing the expendable nature of their pilots in the eyes of the Republic.
Animation and Soundtrack
No discussion of “86” would be complete without mentioning its animation and soundtrack. The animation, produced by A-1 Pictures, is top-notch, with fluid battle sequences and detailed character expressions that convey the emotional depth of the story. The use of color and lighting effectively contrasts the cold, sterile environment of the Republic with the harsh, battlefield realities of the Eighty-Sixers.
The soundtrack, composed by Hiroyuki Sawano and Kohta Yamamoto, is equally impactful. It enhances the emotional and dramatic moments of the series, elevating the overall viewing experience. The opening and ending themes, coupled with the background scores, perfectly complement the tone and atmosphere of “86.”
Impact and Reception
Since its release, “86” has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Its ability to blend action-packed sequences with deep, thought-provoking themes has resonated with viewers worldwide. The series challenges its audience to think critically about the nature of war, discrimination, and what it means to fight for one’s identity and rights.
Conclusion
“86” sets itself apart from other anime in its genre by offering a rich, emotionally charged story that goes beyond the surface-level appeal of mecha battles. It’s a poignant exploration of the human condition, set against the backdrop of a futuristic war. With its complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and exceptional production quality, “86” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a series that offers both entertainment and substance.
In a landscape filled with countless anime titles, finding a series that genuinely impacts its viewers is rare. “86” achieves this by not only telling a compelling story but also by inviting its audience to reflect on the realities of our world. It’s a reminder that in the midst of darkness, there can be light, and in the face of dehumanization, the strength of the human spirit can prevail.