Taboo Tattoo

Taboo Tattoo is an action-packed, inventive anime series that aired on TV Tokyo in 2016. Based on a manga series of the same name written and illustrated by Shinjirō, it's a show full of strategy, supernatural elements, and intense duels. This series uniquely combines the art of tattooing with the mystic world of superpowers, crafting a fascinating plotline that captures audience's imagination instantly. The overarching story is set in a fictional world where special tattoos are imbued with distinct superpowers, transforming ordinary individuals into extraordinary beings, capable of performing feats beyond human comprehension.

The series revolves around Justice "Seigi" Akatsuka, called so due to his strong sense of justice. He is a gifted martial artist trained by his grandpa and blesses his skills to assist the weak. One day, however, his life takes a drastic turn when he saves a homeless man from hoodlums, and as a token of gratitude, the man experiments on him by embedding a peculiar tattoo onto his hand. This event thrusts Seigi into the global conflict over these unique tattoos, drawing him into a realm of danger and mystery.

This gift, or curse depending on perspective, gives Seigi the power to wield ‘the void maker,’ an unruly arsenal of superhuman powers. He soon realizes that his tattoo is a powerful weapon of mass destruction sought after by the United States government, and one of a bevy of powerful tattoos in existence. The tattoos are a creation of ancient spellcraft, relics of an era long past, giving the users extraordinary powers which enabled them to bend reality to their will.

On this unexpected journey, Seigi is joined by a diverse cast of characters, each more intriguing than the last. He meets an American soldier named Izzy, who becomes his mentor, teaching him about the world of tattoos and how to harness the power of his own. Alongside his school friends and newfound allies, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous war against those who yearn to abuse the power of the tattoos.

Highlights of the series include its riveting animations and intense fight scenes choreographed to push the viewers to the edge of their seat. The rich world-building technique employed in the series draws the audience deeper into the unusual universe filled with clandestine organizations, ancient mysteries, and superhuman tattoos. It brings a fresh perspective to the cliché theme by presenting a perfect blend of training montages, secret operations and power struggles, interspersed by moments of comic relief.

One peculiar feature of this show is the embodiment of tattoos not just as a symbol of power, but as a source of it. These tattoos are not just aesthetic accessories, but rather mystical artefacts that confer unique abilities upon their users. This concept is not only intriguing but also paves the way for creative battle sequences and intricate storylines.

The characters are embedded with intricate backstories, driving personal motivations that make them more human and relatable. These personal narratives revolve around their stances on power, responsibility, and morality, adding a rich tapestry of depth to the show. The protagonist Seigi, with his usual life being overturned by unexpected events, grapples with questions of right and wrong, further humanizing this surreal universe.

Taboo Tattoo has rough, raw, and grunge aesthetics that match its tough world. It is peppered with spellbinding visuals and a soundtrack that enhances combat scenes and tense moments. The series also strikes a good balance between light and dark narrative elements, showcasing the unintended consequences and potential devastation caused by these powerful tattoos, while also exploring the possibility of friendship, loyalty, and self-improvement in moments of crisis.

In conclusion, Taboo Tattoo presents an interesting, and at times unsettling, window into an exotic, chaotic universe, contrasting the solemnity of martial arts with the vigour of supernatural elements. It takes viewers on a thrilling roller-coaster ride that oozes charisma and challenge at every turn. Whether you're a seasoned anime viewer or a newcomer to the world of Japanese animation, Taboo Tattoo offers a distinctive, engrossing experience that's bound to leave you intrigued and wanting more.