Attack On Geek

After watching anime shows such as Death Note, Attack On Titan and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, I didn’t think there’d be another anime series out there that could captivate me and leave me hanging on the edge of my seat the same way that these anime shows did. That is, until I began watching, Erased.

Erased is a thriller based on the manga of the same name and follows the main protagonist, Satoru Fujinuma, who possesses the unique ability to travel back in time moments before a serious, life-threatening incident occurs, enabling him to prevent the incident from occurring. This ability and its effects play out almost like a butterfly effect and brings into focus a crucial moment which took place in Satoru’s life eighteen years ago.

The plot and narrative is astounding and especially gripping. Each episode left me wanting to learn more about Satoru, his predicament and about the overall story. Much like Death Note, there’s an alluring aspect of mystery that certainly caught my attention, along with brilliant film techniques and motifs used throughout the series that adds a certain feeling of anxiety and anticipation, leaving you wanting more and more.

Not only did the narrative and plot intrigue me but so did the characters themselves. Whilst Satoru took centre stage, several key players added to the overall story and created a much more holistic experience. Each episode revealed more about each character and their personalities, which allowed for a feeling of kinship as I felt as if I understood the challenges each character faced.

As with other popular titles, Erased managed to keep up its momentum, which each episode being filled with more suspense and intrigue. However, much like other popular shows, the conclusion felt too rushed and lacklustre. It baffles me how incredible an anime can be in terms of pacing and building up to a crucial moment, only to then rush to provide a conclusion and to end the series. I was a little disappointed with the way in which the ‘problem’ faced by Satoru was resolved. It almost felt like a cop out after everything that happened throughout the show.

Nonetheless, Erased is most definitely a series I recommend and one I would definitely rewatch given the chance. The thrilling effects it leaves is unlike any other I’ve experienced and with such a brilliant story, it’s a shame that there isn’t a second season. However, thankfully a Netflix live-action adaptation of the anime has just been announced, which is fantastic! For those who enjoy the thriller-mystery genre, Erased is one that I highly recommend.