Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens

Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens is a unique and gripping (uftotable) anime series that originally hit the screen in the winter of 2018, providing viewers with a double dose of action and mystery. The show's intriguing storyline, complex characters, and dramatic plot twists - all set against the backdrop of an insidiously fascinating cityscape - help the series to carve out its own niche within the familiar world of crime and mystery anime.

The series' title comes from the backdrop of its story: Hakata, one of the city wards of Fukuoka city in Japan, known for its diverse culture and vibrancy. Tonkotsu Ramen is a notable specialty of the ward, thus the show incorporates this indicative of local flavor. However, don't be fooled by the seemingly culinary title; the series is actually a gritty crime drama with a unique twist that distinguishes it from the regular fare in its genre.

At first glance, Hakata ward appears like any other bustling, modern city, with its vibrant nightlife and sprawling urban landscape. However, under this lively facade, the city hides a deadly secret: it is a haven for hitmen, contract killers, and all manner of professional assassins. Nearly one percent of its population is said to be professional killers and danger lurks on every corner. This forms the crux of the entire series and sets up the ambiguity of both the setting and storyline.

The story follows a multitude of characters, each with their own diverse and complex backgrounds and motivations. Still, the primary focus is on the two protagonists, Zenji Banba and Lin Xianming. Banba is a laid-back private investigator who is a native of Fukuoka, while Lin is a cross-dressing killer who has been forced into the profession due to his tragic past. They cross paths in a series of seemingly random incidents.

Despite their starkly different personalities, Banba and Lin form an unlikely partnership and embark on a journey to navigate the dangerous turf war brewing among the various factions in the city while also confronting their own pasts. This developing relationship between the two of them forms a vital subplot and adds a unique depth to the storyline.

One of the show's major strengths lies in its ability to blend the brutal reality of the underground world of crime with the daily life situations. The show beautifully decorates the dark and grim side of the crime with an everyday average life façade which, in itself, is quite entrancing.

Another highlight of Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens is its richly detailed supporting cast. Each character, from the rival killers to the corrupt bureaucrats and police officers, is layered and multi-dimensional, with their own distinct personalities, goals, and depravities. This cleverly constructed ensemble enhances the overarching plot by adding their own subplots, which collectively form a dense narrative web that keeps the audience guessing.

On the visual side, Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens stands out with its vivid and detailed animation. The dynamic shots of Hakata City, capturing both its alluring nightlife and sinister underbelly, provide a complementary background to the series' intense storyline. The character designs are also distinctive and visually appealing, contributing to the individuality of each character.

The music in the show is another key element that contributes to its overall appeal. The series' opening and ending themes, along with its background score, perfectly accent the show's varied moods and scenarios, adding an extra layer of depth and dynamism to the narrative.

In conclusion, Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens is not your typical crime-drama anime. With its intriguing premise, layered characters, captivating narrative, dynamic visuals, and evocative music, it creates a truly immersive viewing experience. This show is definitely a must-watch for those who appreciate a good mystery, suspenseful storytelling, and complex character dynamics within the niche genre of crime anime.