Journey Through History and Fantasy: An In-Depth Review of the Leviathan Anime Series
The alternate history of World War I comes alive in the anime series "Leviathan," a gripping tale that masterfully intertwines historical fantasy, political intrigue, and poignant storytelling. Set in 1914, "Leviathan" explores the escalating tensions between the British-led Darwinists and the German-led Clankers, two factions divided by their technological warfare approaches. The series follows the adventures of Prince Aleksandar of Austria and Dylan Sharp, a British commoner disguised as a boy, as they navigate a world on the brink of war.
A Historical Fantasy: Setting the Stage
The Plot Unveiled
The year is 1914, and a complex world is depicted where the Darwinists utilize bioengineered "fabricated beasts," and the Clankers depend on their massive machinery. As tensions mount, Prince Aleksandar von Hohenberg finds himself on the run after the assassination of his parents. Concurrently, Dylan Sharp dreams of commanding the skies aboard the British military’s marvel, the Leviathan—a flying whale engineered for battle.
A Meeting of Fate
The serendipitous and tumultuous meetings between Aleksandar and Dylan tightly weave their destinies amidst a backdrop of impending war. The narrative highlights their realization that, despite political divides, unity springs from shared human experiences.
The Craft of Storytelling
Adaptation and Directorial Excellence
Directed by Christophe Ferrreira and penned by screenwriter Yuichiro Kido, "Leviathan" adapts Scott Westerfeld’s novels into an anime that stands out as both a triumph and a standalone work. The creative team skillfully adapts the original trilogy, preserving the essence while delivering poignant themes around unity and conflict.
War and Humanity
The series doesn’t shy away from depicting the stark realities of war—inspired by classics like "Mobile Suit Gundam." It dissects the impact of conflict on humanity, mirroring the world we live in and drawing on rich narratives from both anime and Western literature.
Visual and Auditory Splendor
Animation and Music
"Leviathan" thrives on stunning vistas, dynamic character animation, and soul-stirring music composed by Kazuma Jinnouchi and Nobuko Toda. The evocative score, enhanced by contributions from Joe Hisaishi, resonates with echoes of Studio Ghibli classics, making each episode an emotional journey.
Technical Craftsmanship
Produced by Studio Orange in collaboration with Qubic Pictures, the series elevates the art of anime with its robust construction, though minor visual inconsistencies are occasionally noticed. Yet, the overall impact remains profound and immersive.
Voice Acting: Breathing Life into Characters
The English dub produced by VSI Group offers an invigorating array of accents and adept performances by a largely unknown cast. Broghanne Jessamine’s portrayal of Dylan Sharp shines, capturing both the character’s resilience and evolving identity.
An Epic for Our Times
"Leviathan" transcends simple storytelling, reflecting upon the interconnectedness people share regardless of borders or leaders. Despite its fantastical elements, the series addresses the grim truths of war, offering both a mirror and a window—depicting history’s lessons and modern-day reflections.
Final Thoughts
In "Leviathan," viewers find an engaging narrative marrying historical context with imaginative wonder. Its richly woven plot, stellar production values, and the heartfelt musical score come together to offer a captivating viewing experience. For those seeking a meaningful exploration of history through the lens of speculative storytelling, "Leviathan" stands as a masterstroke—a series not only to be watched but felt.
