Drama Digest
“86” is a Japanese animated series adapted from the light novel series written by Asato Asato. It is an action fiction series. The story revolves around the republic of Magnolia, currently at war, with the Empire of Giad, which is its neighbor. Both sides fight using drones so that the war has no casualties. The infamous title of the series, named 86, is from the squad of 86 drones, led by commander Lena.
The Feel-Good Part
This series is a masterpiece in the truest sense. It is one of the best stories in modern history. It depicts some serious topics, such as- the nature of war, oppression, and racism. There are many details in world-building. The character designs are perfect with outstanding CGI. Unlike the series’ name, the dark story behind it makes it unique. The music is mesmerizing with Hiroyuki Sawano making the soundtrack. The episodes synchronize with the soundtracks perfectly. It captures the feeling and reality of war. It shows us the grim reality of how war can change the world and have a massive impact on people. The dynamics of oppression and privilege demonstrated in the series are rarely seen in these types of animes. Since the novel is big, the creators of the anime made sure not to squeeze the series to make it shorter and include every detail necessary. The characterization of the show made it worth the watch.
The Disappointing Factor
In instances of the show, the pacing is slow and seems draggy. It might be slightly more complicated than all the existing sci-fi anime in the present day. Since the series is adapted from a novel, the information from the novel that is delivered in the anime as dialogues seem inorganic sometimes.
In-Depth Analysis
According to the plans, the war between the Republic of San Magnolia and the Giadian empire has no casualties. The silver-haired Alba of the Repulic’s 85 sectors lives safely behind protection. In comparison, the ones with different appearances are interning in a secret 86th fraction. Those are known within the military as 86. They had to fight against the Empire’s autonomous Legion under the command of republicans called “Handlers.” Vladilena Milize is currently assigned to replace their previous handler in the Spearhead Squadron. She was shunned by her peers as she is a fellow 86 supporter, but despite that, she continued to fight against discrimination. The captain of the Spearhead Squadron, Shinei Nouzen, is famous for being the sole survivor of every squadron he has ever been in. He shoulders the names and wishes of his past comrades. As the fates of these young soldiers from different worlds collide, it has now been of concerned, as will it ignite a spark to light their paths of salvation or they will burn in despair.
Star Power
There are split perspectives shown in the views of the characters Lena and Shin. These characters had endearing qualities that are worth investing in. The voice actors, Hasegawa Ikumi and Chiba Shouya played the two lead roles skillfully.
Overall Opinion
The show is a masterpiece on all grounds and the viewers are bound to get absorbed in the story and fall in love with the characters and series all over. It has excellent realism and depth and is worth the time and investment and won’t disappoint you.
