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If you haven’t heard of, or had time to invest in Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, and are seeking a well-tempered review to help your decision, allow me to spend my time on your behalf, and assist your decision to watch, or pass. And no, it’s not on NerdNet’s best 100 shows to stream right now, but that shouldn’t be the only deciding factor when considering this show.
“Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” has charmed audiences worldwide, casting a spell with its melancholic beauty and unconventional storytelling. The anime, adapted from Kanehito Yamada and Tsukasa Abe’s manga, follows the elf mage Frieren as she grapples with the fleeting nature of human life after her party defeats the Demon King. But beyond the stunning visuals and poignant themes, does “Frieren” truly live up to the hype? Let’s weigh the pros and cons.
- Textless Opening & Ending
- Special Broadcast Ending
- Mini Anime
The Enchantments: Strengths of the Series
Unique Perspective on Time
The anime’s greatest strength lies in its exploration of time and mortality. Frieren, with her eonic elven lifespan, experiences the world differently than her former companions. This creates a profound sense of loss and allows the series to meditate on the value of fleeting moments. It’s a refreshing contrast to typical adventure narratives where victory is the ultimate goal. The somber realizations of true relationships and their loss hit home, especially reinforcing the fluidity of life lived and the ebb of life and love as time soldiers on.
Character-Driven Narrative
While the overarching plot is present, “Frieren” excels in its character interactions. The relationships between Frieren and her apprentices, Fern and Stark, are beautifully developed. We see them grow, learn, and cope with their individual traumas, making them relatable and endearing. The supporting cast, too, is richly detailed, each with their own motivations and stories. An aspect I found particularly fun and refreshing was the quirks and weaknesses of Frieren, especially as she learns to trust her new friends, rather than a continuing stoic main character who stays static, as some are prone to do.
Stunning Visuals and Music
The animation quality is consistently high, bringing the world of “Frieren” to life with vibrant colors and fluid movements. The backgrounds are meticulously crafted, adding depth and immersion. The vibrant and emotional scores perfectly complement the anime’s tone, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene.
Subtle Worldbuilding
The world of “Frieren” feels lived-in and believable, despite the fantastical elements. The anime gradually reveals its history, cultures, and magical systems through subtle details and character interactions. This approach avoids exposition dumps and allows viewers to piece together the world at their own pace.
The Curses: Potential Weaknesses
Pacing Issues
The deliberate pacing, while appreciated by some, can be a drawback for others. The anime often lingers on quiet moments and introspective scenes, which may feel slow or uneventful to viewers accustomed to faster-paced action. The early episodes, in particular, can feel meandering as the series establishes its tone and introduces the main characters. While I find exposition important and intriguing, some may wish for a faster paced anime to suit their interests.
Repetitive Formula
The “journey of self-discovery” trope, while well-executed, can become somewhat repetitive. Frieren often encounters individuals who remind her of her past companions, leading to similar emotional beats. This can make certain episodes feel predictable, diminishing the overall impact.
Underdeveloped Antagonists
While the focus on character development is a strength, the lack of compelling antagonists is a weakness. The demons, while formidable, often lack depth and complexity. Their motivations are usually simplistic, reducing them to mere obstacles for Frieren and her party to overcome.
Emotional Detachment
Frieren’s stoic personality, while understandable given her long lifespan, can create emotional distance between her and the audience. Her subdued reactions to events can make it difficult to fully connect with her struggles. However, some viewers see this as a deliberate choice that adds to the anime’s unique atmosphere.
The Verdict
“)” is a beautifully crafted anime that offers a unique perspective on time, loss, and the value of human connection. Its strengths lie in its character-driven narrative, stunning visuals, and subtle worldbuilding. However, its slow pacing, repetitive formula, underdeveloped antagonists, and emotional detachment can be drawbacks for some viewers.
Ultimately, whether you find “Frieren” enchanting or frustrating depends on your personal preferences. But one thing is certain: it’s a series that will leave you pondering the meaning of life long after the credits roll.
NerdScore
9.5/10
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (2023) Review
A quiet, devastating meditation on time and memory, Frieren delivers exquisite animation and character work that turns small moments into epic, emotional milestones.
After the hero party defeats the Demon King, the long-lived elf mage Frieren begins a reflective journey to understand humanity, grief, and connection across decades.
IMDb
—/10
Metacritic
93/100
Rotten Tomatoes
100%