18if

18if is a unique and enigmatic anime television series that hit the screens in 2017. An exceptional fusion of symbolism, psychology, and fantasy, 18if represents an unusual presentation in the world of anime. Based on a mobile game and crafted by prolific studio Gonzo, it dares to venture into the obscure world of dreams and the human subconscious.

The series revolves around Haruto Tsukishiro, our central protagonist, who wakes up in a strange dream world with no recollection of how he got there. This dream space is strangely distorted, governed by peculiar rules, and is populated by bizarre creatures and entities. It's a parallel reality shaped by the dreamer's mind and their subconscious thoughts. Here, Haruto meets "Katsumi Kanzaki", a mysterious man with the power to invade other people’s dreams. Katsumi introduces Haruto to the frightening concept of "Witch’s Syndrome," a condition that traps young women in their dreams due to unresolved issues or unfulfilled desires in their waking lives.

The crux of the series is Haruto's journey through this dream realm, helping these distressed 'witches' overcome their psychological issues. Each episode in 18if presents a new witch to combat with her unique world, reflecting her thoughts, fears, and desires. This episodic rhythm is carefully balanced by the overarching narrative that slowly uncovers the mystery of Haruto's predicament.

Creations of various directors, each episode takes a completely different style than its predecessors, which is a significant aspect of the charm of 18if. The shift in animation style and storytelling between episodes keeps audiences on their toes, assimilating a curated taste for aesthetic diversity. This gamble results in a profoundly distinctive viewing experience that transcends the conventional tropes of anime.

The series cleverly integrates psychological themes, exploring mental health challenges like trauma, depression, social rejection and their effects on the dream world's occupant. It creates a deeply immersive narrative that allows space for personal interpretation and analysis from its audience.

This dream motif becomes a profound symbolism platform that 18if leverages to explore societal issues and human vulnerabilities. The dream world's unpredictability serves as an insightful metaphorical exposition of the human mind's complexities and intricacies. It becomes a place where hidden emotions and forgotten memories are unlocked and addressed to embark on a path of healing and self-discovery.

The characters are well-designed and relateable, bringing depth and quality to the series. While Haruto’s character is elusive and enigmatic, the witches are a complex mix of frailty, strength, and human imperfections. As a result, these characters subtly challenge societal norms and expectations, making statements regarding the concepts of identity and self-worth.

While the storyline is a psychological journey marked with unique diversity and depth, the elements of humor, suspense, and emotion keep the audience intrigued and emotionally invested. These layers of narrative, combined with the salient production values, create a vivid and distinct artistic palette.

In terms of audio and visual aesthetics, 18if provides an undeniably striking and ethereal experience. The imaginative visual style, rich backgrounds, and innovative animation techniques leave an indelible impact. The vivid, sometimes psychedelic, representation of dreams is a feast for the eyes. By juxtaposing the vibrant dreamscapes with the stagnant real-world frames, the show skillfully maneuvers the viewer's perspective to oscillate between reality and dreams. The background score and sound effects, along with the catchy opening and ending songs, provide the perfect audio-visual synergy heightening the show's ambiance.

At its core, 18if is a unique departure from traditional anime - an audacious experiment that pushes the boundaries of storytelling in the medium. It's worth a watch for those looking for a challenging and thought-provoking experience. The experience might feel orchestrally chaotic at times, and the show may not cater to everyone's taste. However, for those who like to delve into the abstract and appreciate an artistic manifestation of human emotions and complex psychological themes, 18if is a gem that shouldn't be overlooked.