Exception. Animated sci-fi series on Netflix

[acidbearboy]

8 episodes mini series. 
Deep space horror/suspense theme. 
Character designs by Yoshitaka Amano. 
Soundtrack by Ryuichi Sakamoto. 

 

https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81002444
 

I just finished watching this - I thought it was good. Nothing too heavy and pretty concise at just 8 episodes, but it kept me hooked and I was keen to find out the next twist and turn of the story. The art style is a little strange but I recognised Amano’s designs before I saw his name in the credits! Sakamoto’s score is also very nice. 
 

 

[Benny]

Yoshitaka Amano?!

 

I'll get right on that...

[Benny]

This is actually quite cool. I don't actually think it's that great visually: the character designs themselves are amazing of course, but it's got a particularly bland CG look and stiff animation to it unfortunately. But I'm enjoying the story and that's carrying it so that's the main thing.

[acidbearboy]

It looks kinda awkward doesn't it. I feel like Amano's designs probably need more detail than the budget could manage to animate. What's there is fine, but as you say the story (and for me also the excellent score) make up for the lacklustre visuals.

[Benny]

Ultimately I enjoyed it, but didn't like it. Because of how it ends:

 

Spoiler

I'm not sure I like the "message" of the series. Lewis and Kate get a happily ever after and the planet's native creatures are completely fucked. There's no cautionary tale here at all.

 

I thought it was going to be leading up to at least some reflection on colonialism despite Patty being foiled, but nope.

 

I did enjoy the story unfolding but I think I really don't like its "politics". Or at least how vague it is exploring them.

 

[Benny]

Mind you, I did just read this fantastic counterpoint to that in the following Reddit comment (ending spoilers):

 

Spoiler

 

The Lionfish comment was well observed, so I think I've definitely missed maybe some of the intended meaning in it.

 

[Benny]

But the best part: zero weeby anime bollocks. Played and acted entirely straight, thank God.