Argento Soma

Argento Soma is an intriguing and compelling anime series that was aired in Japan in the time frame of 2000 - 2001. With its mystifying combination of science fiction, adventure and drama, it has captivated audiences by delivering a unique narrative that revolves around the notion of extraterrestrial beings, battles and the struggle for redemption and finding oneself.

The series consists of 25 episodes and one OVA (Original Video Animation) and commences with a mysterious incident that changes the life of the protagonist, a young, driven man named Takuto Kaneshiro. Kaneshiro is a smart and ambitious research student studying in a prestigious institution whose life takes a turn when his lab gets torn apart by a seemingly unstoppable alien entity, leading to the demise of his beloved girlfriend, Maki Agata. His discontentment with the catastrophic incident and the resulting disfigurement of his own body lead to his obsessions with revenge. He adopts a covert identity, calling himself Ryu Soma and embarks on a unique mission to fight back.

Ryu partners with a military organization known as FUNERAL, whose purpose is to combat this alien threat known as 'Frankensteins'. Each episode typically features a confrontation with these strange creatures, offering dynamic, action-packed sequences that are sure to captivate viewers. Filled with incredible visuals and intense fight sequences, the series maintains a consistently high energy throughout.

Despite the action sequences, Argento Soma is not just all about battles and revenge. It also explores the emotions and trauma of its characters deeply, especially on how Ryu is handling his transformation. His journey to reconcile with his past and present, internal mental struggles, and his interactions with the other members of FUNERAL provide an emotional depth to the series.

One captivating aspect of Argento Soma is the introduction of an unusual creature, a child-like extraterrestrial being known as 'EX-1' or 'Hattie'. Hattie bridges the gaps between humans and Frankensteins and initiates the emotive sub-plot of the narrative. Hattie's plight as a misunderstood entity in the human world, and the relationship that develops between him and Ryu, adds layers to the narrative, further making the story riveting.

The concept of 'Argento Soma', the title itself is tied to a mysterious project that holds significance in the storyline. It gives a haunting touch to the series and the mysteries unfold as we progress through the episodes.

The animation of Argento Soma is exquisitely detailed, working in harmony with the unique aesthetic of the show. Each character is given a distinct look and personality, which adds depth to the visual storytelling. The alien designs are haunting yet intriguing, sustaining an aura of mystery around them. The battles scenes against the Frankensteins are beautifully executed, with impressive CGI effects and intricate choreography.

The audio aids significantly in setting the tone for the series. The opening theme, ‘Silent Wind’, is hauntingly beautiful and sets the perfect mood for the episodes to follow. Throughout the series, the music is used effectively to enhance dramatic sequences, add suspense to the narrative, and emphasize the emotional depth of the characters.

The voice acting in Argento Soma, both in the original Japanese version and English dub, suits the characters well and brings them to life. The dialogue delivery is powerfully emotional, lending intensity to the narrative.

Argento Soma is not a typical science fiction anime. It holds a certain philosophical depth, questioning existence, the nature of beings, and explores the fine line between good and evil. Its complex and a compelling narrative, combined with distinguishable characters, haunting yet intriguing creature concepts, intense confrontations, and deeply rooted emotional storytelling, makes Argento Soma a must-watch for any anime aficionado. The series offers an exciting and engaging viewing experience to those seeking more than just action in a science fiction series, but also a storyline with layers of emotion, unpredictability, intrigue and depth.