Valkyrie Drive -Mermaid- (Original Japanese Version)

Valkyrie Drive -Mermaid- is an enthralling anime television series from Japan that was premiering on AT-X and other channels in 2015. This anime series, which was later formatted for home release, blends the genres of action, yuri, and fantastical science fiction seamlessly. The show grabs the viewers' attention from the very first moments and sustains the excitement throughout the series. The abundance of fighting sequences, transformations, and special abilities will captivate the fans of "power-up" style anime.

The storyline takes place on five artificial islands, each with a unique theme that shapes the living conditions and communities within them. However, these are not ordinary islands – they are actually various forms of "Valkyrie Drive" projects where girls, who have been infected with a mysterious virus, are sent to live - one of them being the Mermaid island, hence the title "Valkyrie Drive -Mermaid-".

The series follows the lives of two central characters: the naively straightforward Mirei Shikishima and gentle, yet strong, Mamori Tokonome. Mirei is a liberator, while Mamori is an Extar, and the virus that affects them gives them the unique ability to turn into weapons when they are physically aroused, and control them respectably. Their relationship is not static but evolves over time, testing the boundaries of friendship, trust, and deeper feelings that might be considered taboo in another context.

One of the notable aspects of the show is its animation. The vibrant visuals, eye-catching character designs, and breathtaking battle sequences captivate the viewer's sight. It's a result of the combined efforts of a dedicated artistic team and Armour studio, which successfully rode the wave of the modern anime boom.

Moreover, Valkyrie Drive -Mermaid- is a platform for exploring various themes, along with a hint of social commentary. The series delves into themes such as love, acceptance, and the tenacity of the human spirit. The progression of the story is laced with these themes, letting the characters and their challenges leave a lasting impression on the viewer. The storyline also blurs the lines between good vs evil, often alluding to the gray areas of morality and existence.

The series takes the action genre to a whole new level with thrilling, over-the-top battles. The show is packed with special effect sequences that come alive in high definition, creating an adrenaline-soaked atmosphere that keeps viewers glued to their screens. The capabilities that the characters acquire add a unique angle, setting it apart from many other action anime series.

Even though the series presents a range of female characters, it treads away from the stereotypical depictions of women in anime. The characters in Valkyrie Drive -Mermaid- are strong, independent, and multifaceted. Each character brings something unique to the table, making worth watching for fans of character-driven narratives.

The soundtrack is another compelling aspect, effectively matching the pacing and intensity of the show. It serves to heighten the series' emotional impact, from setting an energetic tone during confrontations to delicately accompanying calls for pathos in the plot's more pensive moments.

On the other hand, it’s girdled with quite an explicit approach with its explicit yuri (same-sex love among women) content and notorious fan service. It's also filled with its dynamic brand of humor, often breaking the fourth wall and involving the audience in the characters' rambunctious antics.

In summary, Valkyrie Drive -Mermaid- is a spectacular anime series that combines action with a dash of science fiction and does so with a refreshingly unique narrative, offering something equally exciting and surprising for the seasoned anime enthusiast as well as newcomers to the genre. The stunning visual art, lovable characters, and exciting plot make it a must-watch for anyone interested in anime. And while the yuri content and fan service can be substantial, it’s exactly these elements and how they intertwine with the overall theme of the story, making it truly unique and special. However, viewers’ discretion is advised due to the explicit content.