Infinite Ryvius

[sothis]

Infinite Ryvius
(a.k.a. Mugen no Ryvius)

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Site Reviews: Sheex

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Story/Summary:
(Taken from the Anime Rec. DB)
In 2197 a strong solar flare created a strange region of high gravity, called the Gedult, throughout the plane of the solar system. Nonetheless, humanity has travelled through space and colonized all the planets. In the Bratica facility, students train for various positions in outspace. However there is a danger looming in the horizon -- will these students be prepared to face it?

Infinite Ryvius has a very deep plot, which isn't revealed fully till near the end of the series (or for parts of it, the last few episodes). But IR's focus isn't on the ongoing plot, I think... mostly on the issue of character development, and how the students fall apart emotionally and mentally. Without spoiling too much of the plot, let's just say the students find themselves on their own, with everyone against them, in an unfamiliar place. It reminded me a lot of a Lord of the Flies type situation, where various people take control, people revolt, and everyone, for the most part, breaks down on various levels. Because of this (and because IR focuses on many people, not just one main character) there is an INSANE amount of character development.

Animation:
Saw the screenshots, and can't imagine wanting to watch this because of how it looks? Please reconsider. Yes, the character designs look kind of like Eva, especially Kouji (with a striking resemblance to Shinji). Yes, the animation isn't that great.... but the plot and overall worth of the show make up for it triple fold.

Music:
If I actually rated specific areas in reviews, I would give this a big 1/10. The music is HORRID.. mostly hip hop/rap. It doesn't fit the tone of the series at ALL and is generally obnoxious. I'm sorry, but I just don't think that a hip hop song while people are involved in a space battle is very appropriate. The intro song sounds like a disco, and in general, the music is just awful. Near the end there is a semi electronic sounding song which is definitely OK, but the first half of the series is almost 100% hip hop. The only reason points were deducted from my final score below is because of the music.

Overall: 9.5/10
With the only reason it is lower than 10, being because of the music. This series, honestly, kicks ass. From episode 1 there is an incredible feeling of suspense, that pretty much doesn't go away until the show ends. The plot is engaging, and makes you want to see the next episode badly. Eventually, the confusing plot is explained fully, and also wrapped up almost perfectly at the end (this is one of only a few series I've seen where I am genuinely happy with the ending).

The character development was amazing. Not only are the characters not 2-dimensional, but since the series focuses on so many of them, you get to see the downward spiral, basically, of each character, coming to terms with the situation, and themselves. These changes make you sad, angry, and happy all at once. Even minor characters are shown throughout the series, with their transformations. The emotions they portray seem real, and genuine. With so much sadness, anxiety, and fear in the series, the development of each character is shown accordingly, and it *will* convince you of their plight. I just can't say enough good things about the character development. At times, the emotions are even chilling... to hear the screams of "I don't want to die", etc. Keep in mind, if you need a fast paced plot, you might not enjoy IR, because like I said, it focuses a ton on individual character development.

IR is in general, a very serious, suspenseful show... but at times there is really hilarious comedy as well. There were a few scenes that almost made me spit out my drink. And I'm not talking about harem comedy, I'm talking about wacky, truly funny humor.

All in all, IR is just amazing. I will definitely purchase the DVDs, and highly suggest that you check it out.