Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion Review

story 8.5/10

Code Geass is a well-oiled machine manipulating its constituent parts with ruthless efficiency. Like a rollercoaster ride, the series is an experience remembered more for the naked thrills it provides than any particular point in the journey. There are thus few specifics in the plot to analyse without giving anything away, but what there is to discuss, is brilliant stuff.

Although strictly classifiable as a mecha, the show is not at all defined by this feature, because, far from driving the story, the mecha battles are more of an amusing background detail. Instead, what brings tension to the plot is the frantic political manoeuvring, whereby Lelouch uses means both fair and foul to outwit the Britannian Empire. Any political venture is fraught with moral dangers but the series makes sure to exploit the biggest issues; for example, whether or not Lelouch's actions constitute freedom fighting or terrorism is left ambiguous. Code Geass should not be mistaken for an intellectual show, however, since any philosophy applied here is not exactly sophisticated, but the way the series messes so brilliantly with intuition makes for an exciting experience.

Moreover, Code Geass has the kind of plot which juggles various events simultaneously in order to deliver frequent twists and cliff-hangers, which means not having the time to breathe, let alone get bored. On the downside, this reliance upon suspense means the series lacks that rewatchability factor. Code Geass has plenty of high points but few individual episodes that stand by themselves, which means waiting long enough to want to experience the series in its entirety again.

As for the ending, don't expect one; it is action-packed and intense without actually being conclusive, and delivers a climax in feel, if not in actual content. I feel far from cheated, however, because it is obvious even two thirds of the way through - judging by the number of subplots and complexity of the issues involved - that the core of the story cannot be resolved in just twenty-six episodes. If there had been any attempt to end things here, most likely the series would have felt rushed, sloppy and dissatisfying.

animation 7.5/10

Very bright, very cartoon-like, very CLAMP, the colour palette is a stark contrast to the bleak subject matter. Yet it works because the solemn tone of the script and the very occasional blood-splatter keeps everything grounded. Expect anorexic body shapes, pink-haired princesses, and chunky mecha designs in the vein of Gundam Seed, as well as fluid movement and solid action sequences. In sum, competent and clean without being particularly stunning.

sound 7/10

The mediocre first opening theme says nothing of what's to come in later episodes but the first ending theme is quirky and mirrors the messed up ideas of the show. Later, the opening theme switches to something truly schizophrenic called ‘Kaidoku Funou' by Jinn. With a punky drumbeat and high-pitched whine-singing, this one is more of a grower. Over time I have come to appreciate its unique sound and it is now one of my favourite themes, although this might not be the case with other viewers. The rest of the soundtrack consists of choral and instrumental pieces designed to give an epic or haunting feel. Undoubtedly the best part is the voice acting, which is very good throughout.

characters 6.5/10

A story can be viewed as a battle for salience between plot and characterisation; it is the director's role to mediate between the two in order to achieve the best possible balance. Some masterpieces achieve a high level of characterisation and plot (Full Metal Alchemist) whilst others sacrifice plot to get that certain je ne sais quoi out of the characters (Cowboy Bebop). Code Geass is an excellent example of making the plot shine by using the characters as a dishrag.

Lelouch, C.C. the alien girl, and Lelouch's best friend, Suzaku Kururugi, represent the layered cast. Lelouch Lamperouge is not the kind of personality that you fall in love with - he is just too calculating for that - however, you do learn to respect him or else. He is admirable for his unrivalled genius and his willingness to make unpleasant choices for the greater good (as he sees it). On top of that, he is charismatic, a tortured soul, gifted with a cool power, and cares about his sister. Granted, Lelouch is not subtly complex but, damnit, he is boldly invigorating.

C.C. is complicated because her past as well as her true intentions are never made explicit here; she is thus engaging because she is an unpredictable element. Suzaku, in contrast to Lelouch, is presented as a typical hero who just wants the best for everyone. And that's where his character comes unstuck. He fights militarily for the Britannians while claiming to be a neutral party, which renders his stance in the conflict at best contradictory and at worst outright hypocritical. While Suzaku's awkward position no doubt serves the twisty plot very well, this also means his interventions in the terrorist attacks are not so much heroic as irritating.

The rest of the cast, like Kallen the freedom fighter, Lloyd the mecha developer, and Princess Euphemia, are interesting and believable in the short run but leave no real lasting impression. Caring deeply for any of these individuals per se is difficult; what makes them important is what side of the debate they fall on, not who they are or why they do things.

overall 8.7/10

Code Geass is initially mistakable for a wannabe Gundam Seed because of its animation, but once the show gets into its stride, it easily rivals Death Note in terms of delivering frequent, intense twists and cliff-hangers. Unlike Death Note, however, there is little room for the characters besides Lelouch to strut their stuff. For the broad range of mainstream fans, this anime is an ideal treat, although, with its extra layer of ingenuity, I might hesitatingly recommend the series even to those on the fringes.