Gate

Gate, produced by Sentai Filmworks and aired from 2015 to 2016, is a compelling anime series based on a novel series by Takumi Yanai which combines modern militaristic elements with fantasy and otherworldly charm. The anime is a notable mix of action, adventure, intriguing political narratives, and elements of fantasy. It presents an enticing weave of culture clash, conflict resolution, as well as the concepts of coexistence and diplomacy, set against the backdrop of a militarily advanced society side by side with a fantasy-based world.

The story of Gate is set into motion when a mysterious portal, referred to as the 'Gate,' emerges in the middle of Tokyo, Japan. This leads to the appearance of strange creatures and armies from an alternate world who begin to attack the city creating chaos. In response to this unexpected attack, the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) intervene and manage to push the mysterious invaders back into the Gate. This sets up a rather complex yet dynamic story structure where modern Japanese military forces clash with those from a medieval fantasy world reminiscent of those found in folklore and ancient mythology.

The protagonist, Youji Itami, is a 33-year old officer from the JSDF who also happens to be an avid otaku, adding humor and relatability to the series. Despite his seemingly nonchalant demeanor, Itami proves himself to be a capable leader and a compassionate individual. After the initial conflict, he is sent along with his team by the JSDF to the parallel world beyond the Gate. There, he must navigate peacekeeping efforts and diplomacy with the different races and kingdoms, while also dealing with the politics and disputes unfolding within his own ranks.

Throughout the series, Gate explores the intricate tapestry of a world that is a mix of fantasy and realism. Dragons and mythical creatures exist alongside tanks and helicopters. The show doesn't shy away from exploring the social, political, and cultural implications of the interactions between the two dramatically different worlds. This makes Gate more than just a standard military or fantasy-driven anime, as it delves into larger themes of foreign policy, socio-political dynamics, culture shock, and technological disparities.

The viewer is introduced to a roster of well-rounded characters, including soldiers of the JSDF, a multitude of civilizations from the parallel world, and government officials from both worlds. Fantasy characters - like an elf, a sorceress, and a demigoddess - become consistent collaborators with JSDF, thereby forming an integral part of the narrative. The series also presents a variety of antagonists, from scheming politicians to malevolent gods, further enriching the storytelling.

Visuals are a strong point of Gate. The careful and vivid representation of both the modern world and the parallel fantasy world showcases not only the mind-boggling contrast but also the potential symbiosis between the two worlds. The animation quality remains consistent throughout the series, handling the action sequences in both the modern and fantasy settings quite well. The artistic attention given to the designs of the creatures, landscapes, and architecture adds to the engaging experience.

The music and sound design, consisting of robust military themes mixed with traditional fantasy elements, complement the ambience, often adding another layer of grit or suspense to the storyline. Moreover, the character voice acting in both the original Japanese and English dub versions brings the characters to life and accentuates their distinct personalities.

In conclusion, Gate is a daring and enjoyable anime that successfully merges the modern military genre with fantasy, creating an ambitiously contrasting narrative canvas. Its diverse, relatable characters, and the exploration of how politics, diplomacy, and conflict function within and between two disparate worlds, make for a uniquely entertaining viewing experience. If you're a fan of anime that explores 'what if' scenarios, rides high on the themes of culture clash, and fuses realistic military action with high fantasy, then Gate is a show one shouldn't miss.