INUYASHIKI LAST HERO

Inuyashiki Last Hero is a gripping and emotionally charged anime that blends elements of science fiction, action, and human drama. Adapted from the manga series of the same name written by Hiroya Oku, this show was first aired in Fall 2017. It is a story that delves into the complexity of human nature, morality, and the essence of what it means to truly be alive.

The anime opens with the life of Ichiro Inuyashiki, a middle-aged man who is unfortunately not living the best of lives. He's detached from his uncaring family, is facing the ignominy of aging, and lacks respect from those around him. Things take a drastic turn when, one night in a park, Inuyashiki and a high school student named Hiro Shishigami are caught in a mysterious explosion. Neither of them know that this catastrophic event, caused by extraterrestrial forces, will alter their lives forever. When they wake up, they quickly realize that their bodies have been reconstructed and replaced with incredibly advanced mechanical structures that bestow them with immense strength, healing capabilities, and other powerful abilities.

Inuyashiki Last Hero then splits its narrative focus between the two characters whose lives were radically changed by the same incident, yet who choose fundamentally different paths with their newfound powers. On one side, there is Ichiro Inuyashiki, who despite facing a personal existential crisis, begins using his abilities to help people and save lives. His journey highlights themes of redemption, empathy, and the search for meaning in life. In his endeavor, Inuyashiki becomes somewhat of an unlikely hero, fighting for justice and trying to make the most out of his new lease on life, even as he confronts the limitations and moral dilemmas of his powers.

On the other side of the spectrum is Hiro Shishigami, the young student who experiences the same transformation as Inuyashiki. Unlike Inuyashiki, Shishigami's approach to his new powers is darker and more chilling. Driven by a detached sense of curiosity, a search for his place in the world, and the thrills the powers provide him, Hiro begins using his abilities in a much more sinister and self-serving manner. The anime delves into the psyche of its characters, challenging viewers to ponder the depth of human nature and the potential for both good and evil within each individual.

As Inuyashiki strives to become a symbol of hope amidst humanity's plight, Shishigami becomes the harbinger of fear and destruction, setting the stage for an intense confrontation between the two. Their parallel stories are interwoven with reflections on family, social isolation, mortality, and the moral complexities of using power for vastly different ends. Inuyashiki and Shishigami both affect the lives of those around them in dramatic ways, eliciting a mixture of horror, compassion, and intrigue from the audience.

With riveting action sequences and powerful emotional moments, Inuyashiki Last Hero is more than just a tale of superheroes and villains. It is a profound exploration of life's fragility and the human condition, raising questions about technology's role in society and the nature of consciousness. The show pushes the boundaries of typical sci-fi narratives, offering a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching experience that's enhanced by its detailed animation and a compelling soundtrack.

The animation, produced by MAPPA studio, known for their work on various hit anime series, provides a distinct visual experience. The style captures the harsh, gritty reality of the characters' lives as well as the explosive intensity of the action scenes. Meanwhile, the sound design and musical score serve to deepen the emotional impact of the series, whether through the quiet moments of despair or the booming clashes of power.

Inuyashiki Last Hero confronts the viewer with the dualities of human nature – love and hate, creation and destruction, life and death – and does so through the lens of a world where unimaginable power falls into the hands of two ordinary individuals. The show navigates the thin line that separates a hero from a villain and the profound ripple effects of their actions.

In conclusion, Inuyashiki Last Hero offers a mature and dark twist on the superhero genre. It invites viewers to consider the weight of their own morality and the potential for change, irrespective of age or circumstance. It's a somber yet intense journey that resonates with anyone who has ever pondered their place in the world or the impact of their actions. For fans of thought-provoking storytelling and high-stakes drama, this anime is not one to miss.