Our Take on BEASTARS — A Wildly Unique High School Drama
A unique blend of drama and mystery, BEASTARS explores the complexity of society through the lens of anthropomorphic animals.
About BEASTARS
- Platform: Netflix
- Release Date:
- IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
- Genres: Animation, Drama, Mystery, Crime
In a world where beasts of all kinds coexist, a gentle wolf awakens to his own predatory urges as his school deals with a murder within its midst.
WatchThisFlix Review
By WatchThisFlix Editorial Team
## The Setup
Set in a world where anthropomorphic animals coexist, "BEASTARS" is an intriguing blend of drama, mystery, and crime that challenges societal norms and individual identity. The narrative kicks off with a murder at Cherryton Academy, an elite boarding school that is home to both carnivores and herbivores. This murder sets the stage for a deep dive into the complexities of a society fraught with tension and prejudice. At the heart of it all is Legoshi, a mild-mannered grey wolf who grapples with his innate predatory instincts while being drawn to Haru, a small white rabbit with her own set of challenges.
## What Works
"BEASTARS" excels in its storytelling, offering a mature and layered narrative that defies typical animation tropes. The show crafts a compelling mystery around the murder, using it as a backdrop to explore deeper themes such as identity, societal expectations, and the nature of desire. The voice acting is top-notch, with Chikahiro Kobayashi delivering a standout performance as Legoshi, capturing the complexity of a character who is both introspective and intense.
Visually, the series is a feast for the eyes. The animation, courtesy of Studio Orange, combines 3D CGI with 2D elements in a way that enhances the storytelling rather than detracting from it. The character designs are distinct and memorable, each one reflecting the personality and inner turmoil of the character it represents.
The soundtrack, composed by Satoru Kōsaki, further elevates the narrative, blending jazz and classical elements that complement the show's unique tone. Songs like the hauntingly beautiful theme "Wild Side" set the mood perfectly and linger in the mind long after the credits roll.
## What Doesn't
Despite its strengths, "BEASTARS" is not without its flaws. The pacing can sometimes be erratic, with certain episodes feeling bloated with exposition while others rush through character development. The subplot involving Haru's romantic entanglements occasionally feels forced, detracting from the primary narrative of societal and personal conflicts.
Additionally, the series' attempt to juggle multiple genres—drama, mystery, and romance—sometimes leads to tonal inconsistencies. Moments of levity can feel jarring against the backdrop of darker, more introspective scenes.
## Who Is This For?
"BEASTARS" is a must-watch for fans of mature animation that isn't afraid to tackle complex themes. If you appreciate character-driven narratives with a philosophical bent, this series will captivate you. It's also ideal for viewers looking for an atmospheric mystery with a unique setting, standing apart from typical high school dramas by virtue of its anthropomorphic cast and societal allegories.
## Final Verdict
"BEASTARS" is a daring and inventive series that pushes the boundaries of what animated storytelling can achieve. While it stumbles at times with pacing and tonal consistency, its exploration of identity and societal norms makes it a compelling watch. The combination of stellar animation, strong voice performances, and a haunting soundtrack creates an experience that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. For those willing to embrace its quirks, "BEASTARS" offers a richly rewarding journey.
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