Armitage III

Armitage III, produced in 1996 by AIC, and picked up by FUNimation for an English release, is an intriguing cyberpunk anime series that combines elements of action, adventure, romance, and mystery into a succinct narrative driven by well-developed characters.

The show is set in the year 2046, in a dystopian future where humanity has begun colonizing Mars. In the domed city of Saint Lowell on the Martian landscape, technology has advanced to an unimaginable level, resulting in the creation of humanoid robots, some so sophisticated that they could be easily mistaken for humans. These highly advanced robots, known as "Second Types", bring forth unprecedented challenges and moral dilemmas, which serve as the backdrop for the series.

The storyline of Armitage III revolves around two main characters, Naomi Armitage, and Ross Syllibus. Naomi Armitage, the title character, is a brash, highly skilled Martian police detective with a mysterious past that fuels the series' suspense. She is resilient, complex, and multifaceted, making her a magnetic character whose enigmatic persona will captivate you from the moment you meet her.

Ross Syllibus, on the other hand, is a stoic cop from Earth who is transferred to Mars after a tragic incident involving a robot back on home soil. Thrown into a new environment, Syllibus has to grapple with his prior prejudices against robots and navigate his complex relationship with his Martian police partner, Armitage.

Their professional relationship is at the core of the show, stirring up a blend of intense action sequences and deep emotional moments. Both characters have their predetermined notions about life, law, and what it means to be human, which are persistently challenged throughout the series as they unearth and grapple with the secrets and crimes riddling their city.

The plot dives headfirst into the contentious issue of humanoid robots when Armitage and Syllibus stumble upon a vicious serial killer, who is specifically targeting Second type robots. As they unravel the killer's identity, they also reveal far-reaching conspiracies and secrets that force them to question everything – their beliefs, their identities, and the very nature of humanity and artificial life.

As decidedly grim and realistic as its plot may be, Armitage III does not lack in the action department. Featuring intense gunfights, thrilling chases, and high-stakes brawls, the show balances its effects with more thought-provoking themes about identity, sentience, and the ethical implications of advanced robotics. It also ventures into romance, exploring the complicated and evolving relationship between Armitage and Syllibus.

Visually, the animation of Armitage III strikes an impressive balance between traditional and computer-generated artwork, laying out a unique visual style that matches its future setting. The industrial, cybernetic environment is intricately designed and perfectly fits into the narrative's grim tone. From the bustling city streets to the decrepit slums and high-tech labs, each setting serves a purpose, and the detailed animation brings them to life wonderfully.

The voice acting, both in the original Japanese and the English dub by FUNimation, complements the high-quality animation. The voice actors bring depth and believability to their characters, interpreting the complex emotions and gripping action scenarios with apparent ease. The music too, strikes a chord, perfectly complimenting the atmospheric setting with its experimentation with different genres.

Armitage III isn't just another dystopian, cyberpunk tale. It makes profound statements about humanity’s relationship with technology and the moral implications that come with it. The narrative weaves in layers of intrigue, pulling you in until you are fully vested with the characters and their fate. Fans of sci-fi, action, and mysteries will enjoy the fusion of these elements into an engaging narrative.

In conclusion, Armitage III stands as a testament to 90’s era anime, reflecting the blend of thought-provoking narrative and aesthetic brilliance that made the decade a golden era for animation. It hooks the viewer with its hauntingly beautiful Martian cityscape, compelling characters, and deeply philosophical and ethical themes. For anyone looking to immerse themselves in a cyberpunk world driven by an intriguing plot, Armitage III is worth a watch.