Seis Manos

Seis Manos is a unique animated series that originally aired on Netflix in 2019. It takes its name from the Spanish phrase for 'six hands,' which provides a fundamental hint about the premise of the show. What distinguishes this program is its eclectic blend of diverse cultural influences, with Mexican culture and folklore acting as the primary backdrop, complemented by elements of Eastern philosophy and martial arts.

Produced by Powerhouse Animation Studios and Viz Media, Seis Manos is an American adult animation series created by Brad Graeber and Alvaro Rodriguez. With eight thrilling episodes in its first season, the show presents an intriguing genre amalgam of action, drama, horror, and martial arts.

The storyline is set in the small, fictional town of San Simon in 1970s Mexico. The central characters are three orphaned martial arts warriors, who were taken in and trained by their adoptive father, a Chinese martial arts master named Chiu. Each character brings their distinct personality and individual style to their martial artistry, showcasing three varied but equally formidable 'hands' or forces. The trio, Isabela, Jesus, and Silencio, each practice a different style of Kung Fu, making for a dynamic, action-packed experience.

Their world is upset when their beloved Chiu is brutally murdered. Filled with grief and a thirst for vengeance, they vow to seek justice, bringing them into a world of untold danger and dark magic. They find an unlikely pair of allies in Garcia, a local law enforcement officer, and Brister, a cunning and brusque DEA agent, whose move from the U.S. to Mexico was spurred by the increasing drug trade of the time.

The strength of Seis Manos lies not just in its visuals and action sequences, but also in its strong narratives and character development. In a world where the lines between good and evil blur, the series delves into its characters' personal stories, an exploration that humanizes them and renders the overarching plot more compelling. Amid all the dynamic kung fu fights, Seis Manos also paints a vivid picture of its characters' complex emotional landscapes.

The visuals of Seis Manos are particularly striking, creating an atmosphere as vibrant, colorful, and intense as its narrative. The animation style is an amalgamation of anime-infused aesthetics with a distinct American animation style. The series showcases an impressive level of detail in its rendering of the Mexican landscape and its cultural motifs. Simultaneously, it does not shy away from graphic and intense scenes that create an immersive experience for the viewer.

Supplementing the show's visuals is an impressive score by Carl Thiel, which helps evoke the era and setting of the 1970s Mexico with various musical influences, including traditional Mexican music and other Latin American styles. This further enhances the cultural richness of the series.

Seis Manos does an excellent job of representing multiple cultures while also staying grounded in its central Mexican backdrop. The characters speak in both English and Spanish, sometimes switching in the middle of a sentence, which adds an extra layer of authenticity to it. While employing supernatural elements and mythology, the series doesn’t lose sight of the socio-political undercurrents of the era, subtly touching upon themes like the drug trade, corruption, and economic disparity.

Building its narrative around martial arts, Mexican culture, and mysticism, Seis Manos offers a unique viewing experience. It fluidly combines elements of North American and Eastern entertainment traditions in an organic and captivating way. Its diverse, dynamic characters propel the story forward, while its cross-cultural approach and socio-political nuances create a broader context beyond mere entertainment.

At its heart, Seis Manos is a tale of grit, tenacity, and the quest for justice. It’s about honor, loyalty, and the emotional ties that bind us. Layered with thought-provoking narratives and visually striking action sequences, this series offers a compelling watch for viewers who appreciate depth and complexity in their entertainment. Whether you're a fan of martial arts, intrigued by Mexican culture, or simply a lover of quality animated series with mature themes, Seis Manos is a perfect pick.