Hell’s Paradise

I believe that while as dark as Jigokuraku is, it is a more refreshing title to hit Shonen. Chainsaw Man and JJK are definitely outclassing the latter, but I believe that Jigo has found a way to stamp itself into the culture within it's own niche. Firstly, I will talk about the negatives, or rather, observations I made when watching and reading. To start, I believe that there were noticeable inconsistencies with the animation. Mappa is definitely able to produce quality, but I just feel like sometimes they fall short on the times that it is really supposed to count.

There were times where I was invested and really ready to see how certain scenario's turned out. But then would lose that build up due to the direction or the animation of the scene being mediocre. Off screen deaths and fights towards the beginning did not help the case either. I understand pacing and everything but even if the fight is quick, allow me the ability to at least invest further into their conflicts.

I want to point out that I don't think the animation was completely terrible. Just lacking in places that I believe needed that extra punch of budget to send home the craziness that was happening around them. The STYLE of the animation is actually some really good. But the consistency through and through did not deliver justice.

I want to first start off with Characters. To me, Gabimaru isn't anything extremely extraordinary. I do believe however, that he is a team pillar when it comes to the group. His character development came from being around the other criminals and executioners. And it's during this time and when he is with him does he shine the most. Reckless as he is, it was important that they showed him in a neutral light of being one of the strongest yes, but still not being able to do everything by himself.

Sagirin is a powerhouse when she wants to be, and I think she was the heart of everyone. It was her who held everyone together, even when she did not have the means to have the most positive outlook herself. Bearing certain things so that others wouldn't have to. I like the relationship that she had built with the group but specifically with Gabimaru and Yuzuriha. She was able to break both of them out of their shells, and yank out the true nature of who they were. I am also glad that there was no hints or nudges at a non-platonic friendship between Sagirin and Gabimaru, but more of a strong friendship built through trials and tribulations, that rewarded them with trust and respect.

The story is very refreshing. Nowadays its all about hacks, and who can obliterate who with whatever world destroying level attack they have tucked in their sleeve. I like that this was more laid back and a mystery more than anything else. That nobody was completely stronger than the other. And there wasn't an instance of them leveling mountains just because. Following more of the story and using that as the investment for going along is where I think Jigo shines. It's not eye candy 24/7 and that's okay. With how they made the Tensen seem godly, and the feeling of being helpless, the realism behind the reactions people would have to such beings.

The surroundings of the island, and the disturbing nature of literally everything on it. You knew as much as the characters knew. And it was good, because it made me curious and curiosity is what carried me into the end of Jigo. I recommend this anime if someone wants a more laid back experience. With somewhat inclusive knowledge on Japanese religion and traditions, it makes for a nice story to sit back and watch. getting intrigued the more they decide to explain things. It's got some depth, so if that's your thing I recommend you to check Jigokuraku out.