Tokyo Ghoul, a manga series with a heavy emphasis on its creator Sui Ishida’s dark side, has garnered praise with its first season of 12 episodes released in 2014, continuing with its second season. Later, it concluded its run with another story set in the same universe, Tokyo Ghoul:re. The anime, produced by Studio Pierrot, is directed by Shuhei Morita. Tokyo Ghoul, which also has movies and games, stands as one of the beloved and successful works in the world of anime.
Let’s briefly delve into its premise. Tokyo Ghoul unfolds in an alternative universe, with the only difference from our world being that it is more perilous to roam the streets at night. In this world inhabited by ghoul-like creatures disguised as humans, ghouls live their ordinary lives during the day, only to quench their thirst for blood by feeding on humans during the night.
The story begins when Ken Kaneki, a typical student, finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, encountering one of these bloodthirsty and merciless creatures. However, before this bloodthirsty creature can consume Kaneki entirely, it is interrupted. As a result, Kaneki is left as a half-ghoul, transforming into a hybrid creature who, despite his efforts to resist his newfound nature, is inherently compelled to consume blood. The change Kaneki undergoes parallels the overarching theme of the anime.
Tokyo Ghoul is a perfect candidate for a video game adaptation. The progression of the anime will greatly satisfy action enthusiasts and, particularly those who love the RPG style. The anime not only delves into Kaneki’s transformation but also portrays the ghouls who are preparing to wage war against humans. Tokyo Ghoul features a plethora of characters who are victims of their inflated egos, believing they are superior to everyone else. Throughout the narrative of the conflict between the police and the rebellious ghouls, we meet nearly 20 different characters. These characters are gradually introduced throughout the season, creating a partial leveling system reminiscent of video games. Our protagonist, in sequence, encounters stronger opponents on his path towards the rebellion’s climax.
After Hellsing, Tokyo Ghoul may be the most brutal and merciless anime I have ever watched. The scenes of Ken Kaneki’s torture alone are enough to demonstrate just how savage the anime is. Killing has become not only a means of escape but also a source of pleasure in this anime, which escalates the intensity of its violence with the rising tension of the conflict. The abundance of characters implies that many of them will meet their end. Completing a season requires being among the strongest. During this process, the anime offers viewers numerous one-on-one and group battle scenes. Therefore, Tokyo Ghoul serves as a highly gratifying anime in terms of action and bloodshed. It also provides a good narrative coda with the drama it generates after the battles.
In contrast to other anime, Tokyo Ghoul lacks a clear message, presenting itself as an anime that pushes the boundaries of madness. It delivers action and brutality to the viewer to the fullest. Unlike others with more complex puzzle-like plots, Tokyo Ghoul’s ending and season choices differ from the norm. The essence of this anime is blood, so you can enjoy it solely for the sake of entertainment. Throughout three seasons, an endless storm of action awaits you.
Cast & Crew
director: Shûhei Morita
writers: Aaron Dismuke, Josh Grelle, Sui Ishida, Chûji Mikasano, Monica Rial
starring: Natsuki Hanae, Sora Amamiya (Japan Version) Austin Tindle, Brina Palencia (English Version)
JAPAN | 2014 | 12 EPISODES |