I totally understand the hype created by "Attack on Titan". It's a layered yet not overcomplicated adventure for all ages, full of mysteries and compelling characters. It does not change the rules of "shonen" narrative, but at least avoids bumping into the most annoying stereotypes of the genre.
The real hook of the series is definitely the depth and ambiguity of the characters. On a first look, they all fit into the usual anime stereotypes, but the slow-burning progression of the story allows plenty of time for introspection and character development. Despite the stylized traits, characters feel "human" in their contradictions, with no-one being utterly right about anything.
In the long run, the plot mostly follows conventional paths without any real surprise, but there are times when events take unpredictable turns for the worst. Choices that are suggested as the obviously right thing to do end up leading to tragedies to the point that (almost) none of the characters is truly safe. Other times, the limited understanding of the characters can even change the way certain decisions are being perceived.
The only problem is that after an intense first episode, we have too many fillers and never-ending inner monologues that serve no purpose other than explaining what is obviously happening in front of our eyes. It's not so obvious if you binge-watched the whole season, but there are too many episodes with literally nothing going on. I watched the recap films a few years ago, and it looks like they could smartly sum up the series without missing anything.
Another thing that bothered me is how long characters spend arguing if people died in vain or not. Sure, sacrifice and the value of human life are central themes, but did they really need to digress about it every other episode? Like the continuous inner dialogues: I understand that they can help younger viewers to understand the ambiguity of certain issues, but it can be frustrating at times. They looked more like tricks to buy time and make as many episodes as possible and at the same time stay within the budget and deadlines.
Nevertheless, a good show even for people who are not anime and manga habitués. I just hope it won't develop into a mecha anime with flesh and bone robots.
8.5, 9, 8.75. Great season
This is one of the most interesting anime I have watched. Sometimes you feel you know what is happening but it's beyond what you think and is amazing
Having just copied in my plays for this season from MAL, I am very confused that I rated the show an 8. I don't think it deserves that high of a rating, at all.
Had I watched this show now, I feel like I would have given it a 6, maybe. However, I will not actually revise my ratings on Trakt, MAL, IMDb, etc. without rewatching the content—and I definitely don't want to rewatch this season. I don't intend to see season 2, or the movie, or any other SnK media ever again.
Presumably I had a reason for rating it as I did at the time? My rating "system" has changed over time (or rather, it became a "system" rather than "I feel like giving it n rating"), so really, all I can do about old ratings is shrug and try to ignore them.
ATTACK ON TITAN SEASON 1
"Attack on Titan" Season 1 is one of the best written, character-driven and intense shows I have ever seen. If this doesn't make you an anime fan, I don't know what will.
very good and interesting . one the best anime after dbz
Pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this first season. Some very good story telling at times, and some very good and brutal action sequences. The actual premise is interesting and had me hooked as well. Some of the characters are pretty annoying though, especially Eren, who is the main character. It's kinda aggravating to listen to him go on and on and to behave like such an annoying child.
All in all, I look forward to starting season 2.
Watching this series again, but this time with the Spanish dubbing, it has been incredible. I remember how much I refused to watch it at first because I thought I would not like it because of the theme but after thinking about it a lot I decided to do it. I feel like I have remembered many of the emotions that I felt when I watch it the first time and it felt very nostalgic.
Was expecting more 300 and less Man Of Steel.
While the show has a tendency to get lost in it's overly eloquent monologues, Attack on Titan is a super compelling, action filled drama full of mystery and intrigue. Solid first season which leaves plenty of questions unanswered. Can't wait to dive into Season 2.
Shout by Mov1sBlockedParent2015-09-07T22:52:09Z
Season 1 hints at some interesting things to come in later seasons, but overall felt kinda generic. The characters have very little development and more or less fall into common anime stereotypes. The pacing is such that the majority of the season's conflict and resolution happen in the last 1/3 of the season; leaving most of the questions and plot points raised in the earlier part of the season as cliff hangers.
Attack on Titan seems to have garnered a fair amount of attention, and I will probably watch the second season, but it could stand to mix up the formula in season 2.