Made in Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul

Made in Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul is a thrilling 2020 anime film directed by Masayuki Kojima. It is the third Made in Abyss film and is based on the Made in Abyss web comic series by Akihito Tsukushi. This enrapturing cinematic experience features outstanding voice performances from an accomplished cast, including Miyu Tomita, Mariya Ise, and Shiori Izawa.

This movie picks up from where the journey of the young, brave adventurers left off. The story centers around the resilient Riko, voiced by Miyu Tomita. She's a 12-year-old girl who has grown up idolizing her legendary cave-raider mother and dreaming about exploring new depths of the mysterious chasm referred to as the "Abyss."

Riko is accompanied by Reg, an amnesiac robot voiced by Mariya Ise. His origins and how he ended up on the surface of the Abyss remain a mystery, but his significant strength and agility give him an important role in their expedition. They are later joined by Nanachi, a unique creature from the abyss voiced by Shiori Izawa. Nanachi's prior encounters with the Abyss provide them with invaluable information and skills that aid in the perilous journey deep down in the Abyss.

Made in Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul plunges deeper into the Abyss, revealing its elusive secrets and testing the mettle of the protagonists. They find themselves at the perilous fifth level of the Abyss, known ominously as the "Sea of Corpses." This film promises an exploration into the heart of the Abyss, unique mythical creatures, ancient civilizations, and fatal curses.

The co-habitants on this level are not as friendly as the ones Riko and Reg have encountered before. They cross paths with the enigmatic "Sovereign of Dawn," Bondrewd, a dark figure who has made horrifying sacrifices for the sake of knowledge. The harrowing encounter with Bondrewd engenders a desperate survival situation for Riko, Reg, and Nanachi, testing their bond and their potential to resist and fight the cruelties of the Abyss.

This film showcases director Masayuki Kojima's unique ability to blend detailed and immersive world-building with deeply emotional character development. The movie leaps out visually with an ethereal and unworldly feel to it. Kevin Penkin's original soundtrack adds another layer of intrigue and suspense to the movie, immersing the viewers further into the ominous world of the Abyss.

Made in Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul is an entirely self-contained journey that stands as a masterclass in anime storytelling. This film has a darker tone than its predecessors, adding layers to the characters and narrative, resulting in a deeply emotional and harrowing adventure. Despite its vividly colorful presentation, it delves into the stark realities of survival, sacrifice, and the price of ambition, softly reminding viewers that even the most beautiful places can hide horrifying secrets.

While the film is perfect for die-hard fans who've followed the series from its inception, it also provides a captivating experience for newcomers. Together with incredible storytelling, fantastic character development, amazing visuals, and a phenomenal musical score, Made in Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul is not just an anime film; it's an enthralling narrative powerhouse.

Each character's journey is marred by the allure and treachery of the Abyss. The Abyss itself takes on a character-like role in the film, with its mesmerizing beauty and dangerous, deeply concealed secrets. As a viewer, one finds themselves rooting for the characters as they face difficult decisions and endure the psychological and emotional tribulations that the Abyss presents them.

In conclusion, Made in Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul is a milestone in anime filmmaking, capturing the essence of exploration, friendship, and strength against all odds. It is an emotional roller coaster that borders on the terrifying and awe-inspiring. The film is a testament to the fascinating world of the Abyss, leaving viewers with their hearts in their throats, eagerly anticipating what lies in the depths of the unknown. It remains one of the best and most rewarding anime cinematic experiences of 2020, leaving audiences both fulfilled and excited to dive even deeper into the hauntingly beautiful Abyss.