Betterman

Betterman is an engaging blend of science fiction, action, and horror, an anime series that aired in Japan in 1999. Produced by Sunrise Studios, known for their work on iconic series such as Gundam, Betterman is a 26-episode chronicle that is certain to captivate fans of the as mentioned genres with its fascinating premise, intriguing characters, and palpable suspense.

Set in the near future in the sprawling megalopolis of Tokyo, this dystopian setting is rife with technological advancements, including transforming war machines and pervasive artificial intelligence systems. This vision of the future also introduces a deadly and unexplainable phenomena referred to as 'Algernon.' This mysterious disease causes victims to inexplicably lose control of their mental faculties, causing havoc and death. There's an urgency echoing throughout humanity's shared consciousness due to the disease's escalation and apparently unpreventable nature. Public and private organizations scramble in search of a solution, and that's where our protagonists come in.

Our main characters, Keita Aonouma and Hinoki Sai, are high-school students inserted at the heart of this chaotic world. Both end up working for the multimillion-dollar corporation, Mode Warp. Enthralling character dynamics are introduced, as Keita and Hinoki navigate their burgeoning professional and personal relationships amidst daunting circumstances.

Keita is a diligent student who struggles with any form of success despite his best efforts, which leads him to take on a job as a test pilot for Mode Warp's sentient machines 'Neuronoids.' On the other hand, Hinoki is the daughter of one of Mode Warp's founding members, smart, vivacious, and charismatic. Their different backgrounds introduce an exciting synergy that develops over the series, lending a slice of life angle amidst all the sci-fi horror.

As the main duo embarks on a dangerous journey to find a resolution to the escalating Algernon crisis, they cross paths with an enigmatic figure - Lamia, also known as 'Betterman.' Betterman, a bio-enhanced humanoid with shape-shifting abilities and formidable combat skills, becomes an essential component of the wider narrative. As the plot progresses, Betterman's cryptic past, his link to the Algernon phenomena, and his relationship with the protagonists becomes central to the unfolding mystery.

The series is highly distinctive in its incorporation of psychological and physiological themes. The Algernon phenomenon isn't simply a run-of-the-mill plague; it's something that manipulates the inner workings of the human brain, causing victims to succumb to their deepest fears and vices. This allows significant plot developments to hinge on explorations of the human mind, adding an additional layer of depth to Betterman's storyline. The relationships and characters in the series, too, become tools to explore these themes, with love, fear, friendship, sorrow, hope, and despair all being intricately woven into the narrative.

The aesthetics of Betterman are worth noting, as they effectively capture the grimness of its dystopian setting. The animation style—characteristic of the turn of the millennium anime style—successfully delivers the menacing look and feel of the turmoil in the series. Betterman also stands out with its unique bio-monster designs, inventive mecha battles, and intense action sequences that create an adrenaline-pumping viewing experience.

The music does well to accompany the visuals with mood-setting scores that assist in escalating moments of intrigue, suspense, and action. The theme song 'Yume No Kakera' by Candy delivers an opening that resonates with the thematic elements of the series and teases the emotional roller coaster that lies ahead for viewers.

With its intriguing protagonist duo, suspenseful narrative, and engaging exploration of science and psyche, Betterman is a series that pulls no punches. The viewer is led through a labyrinth of enigmas, encountering twists and turns at every bend. The series rewards those who seek to understand, and it's an enticing journey for anyone who appreciates thought-provoking science fiction, mystery, and a dystopian lens on the future. Drawing on horror elements, powerful themes, and rich characterization, Betterman stands as a unique exemplar within the anime canon.