Terror in Resonance

Terror in Resonance is a startlingly innovative and intriguing anime television series, first aired in 2014, directed by the legendary Shinichiro Watanabe and produced by the notable animation studio, MAPPA, with the series licensed by FUNimation. In its brief 11-episode run, the series addresses a wide-array of profound themes and social commentaries, intermixed with an exhilarating, heart-pounding storyline, that certainly leaves a lasting imprint on the anime community.

In the heart of Tokyo, Japan, the peaceful morning stillness is disrupted by an unfathomable catastrophe as a concealed nuclear facility is brazenly destroyed. In its wake, two mysterious teenage boys who refer to themselves as "Nine" and "Twelve", come into sight. Known collectively as "Sphinx", they stand as the primary suspects behind the terrible act of terrorism. However, interestingly, they're not seeking to cause chaos. Instead, their intentions are clandestinely more profound.

The pair due to their eerily calm demeanor and alien-like intelligence, leaves everyone around them perplexed, appearing almost as enigmas. They carry out their plans in silence, leaving riddles which hint at their next action, thus drawing the authorities into a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

Roping in aspects of psychological thriller and mystery, Terror in Resonance weaves an intricate narrative around Nine and Twelve as they infiltrate Japanese society. The psychological complexity behind their actions, their poignant pasts, and their ingenious minds make for compelling character profiles. Their interrelations with the other characters, notably, with a high school student named Lisa Mishima, further deepens the narrative, and evolves into a compelling examination of connection, loneliness, and the human spirit in the face of harsh realities.

Accompanying this rich narrative is gorgeous animation that perfectly captures the contemporary Tokyo cityscape: from the gleaming skyscrapers, the bustling streets, to the tranquil parks. The production value is a stellar visual treat, coupled with a haunting musical score by Yoko Kanno, that accentuates the gritty reality and electrifying suspense of the storyline.

Terror in Resonance is unique in the way it represents the complexities of human nature and society. The series doesn't shy away from dispensing hard-hitting questions about societal norms, disenfranchised youth, and alienation, which will often cause viewers to introspect and consider their own beliefs and perspectives. Not only is it a suspenseful game of chess between Sphinx and the authorities, but it is also a tale filled with emotion, humanity, and tragedy.

The cast and characters of the series, although relatively small, are brilliantly fleshed out. Each character is multi-dimensional, layered, and unique. The most pivotal of these, Nine and Twelve, though being the catalysts for chaos, are not one-dimensional antagonists. Instead, they are deeply moving and intricate, balancing on the line between protagonists and antagonists, protagonists in their viewpoint and antagonists in the public's eyes.

In particular, the characterisation of Lisa Mishima provides an additional perspective which greatly enhances the series' psychological and emotional depth. Her evolution, from being a victim of bullying and domestic neglect to becoming an important part of Nine's and Twelve's lives, provides a haunting and realistic view into her life, drawing the audience deeper into the storyline.

In summary, Terror in Resonance is a dazzling amalgamation of suspense and social commentary packaged within a thrilling narrative and visually stunning animation. Far from an ordinary anime series, this show presents an astoundingly realistic and gripping portrayal of terrorism, its aftermath, and intricacies of human relation that exist within. It delivers a powerful message that stays with viewers long after the series ends.

Through its incisive narrative, memorable characters, stunning visuals and poignant music score, Terror in Resonance demands viewer's attention from the first minute and continues to amaze until the very end. It's a rollercoaster ride of emotions, thought-provoking concepts, and nerve-wracking anticipation that's sure to leave an indelible imprint on anyone who watches it.