Review of Durarara!!

This is one of the more challenging reviews I've had to write. How to describe "Durarara!!"? It's like nothing I have ever seen before. A product of the studio Brain's Base, most notable for "Baccano!", the show is an interesting yet laid back look into a great cast of characters in Tokyo's downtown district of Ikebukuro and the strange goings on throughout the 24-episode series. It's got humor, action, violence, intrigue, with some touches of horror and romance thrown in. I can say this has something for everyone. The story itself is not one, but many, it's almost as if the entire main plot is composedof sub plots. That's because "Durarara!!" has such a rich cast of characters who each get good time in the spot light and therefore a lot of different plots are happening at once. This would be confusing and probably annoying in any other show, but due to some great writing, all plots seem to converge at one key point at one time or another often with a clever irony or a shocking twist.I got a very film noir feeling from the show due in large part because of the art. Many of the shows key scenes happen at night in dark alleys or abandoned buildings, accompanied by a soundtrack of low brass and guitar strings. Many shady deals are seen involving the cast, inspiring questions, but at the same time keeping us curious as to what happens next.

The greatest assets this show has are it's characters. So many seemingly normal individuals get flushed out and reveal their bizarre and surprising secrets to us, the main trio being ordinary teenage high school students... because it's Anime. These three are backed up by a massive and terrific supporting cast, ranging from a bartender with the world's worst temper, a Russian sushi chef, a sinister plotting information broker, a no-tell doctor, some street kids in a van, and an ominous woman in black who rides a motorcycle. The descriptions I have given do not even begin to scratch the surface of these characters. I would tell you more, but- no spoilers allowed!

The artwork itself is nothing to be amazed at, but it is directed beautifully and gets used to the fullest while being accompanied by some good sound effects. The in-show soundtrack is above average and fits well while the opening and closing themes (two of each) are surprisingly catchy while the credits introduce us to the cast of characters by name (which is a BIG help). This brings us to our Sub vs. Dub battle which was very difficult for me to choose, I think while the Japanese cast is more authentic and overall balanced, I have say I prefer the English cast. Each cast is loaded with big voice acting names in both Japanese and English, so my own preference aside, it's a win-win no matter what language you choose.

So, very good story, good art, good sound/music, great characters... why only a 7/10? Because the payoff was weak. I was expecting an exciting finale which would make the entire cast reach a crescendo that would answer the many questions this show has you asking. While the finale was good, it felt pale in comparison to the vast, rich, universe that was introduced. I suppose that's life in the big city though, a lot of build up leads to very little return, and the smallest most insignificant things can turn out to be of vast importance and surprise. I would advise those interested in watching this show to enjoy the ride and the characters you meet along the way, and I am writing this without having seen the next season, which I suspect will answer some of these questions I still have.

I enjoyed this show at a casual pace and appreciated the way it was written and the time that was put into the characters, but at the end of the day, that's really all the show has going for it. Making it a good Anime that feels flawed in many ways, but not enough to spoil an enjoyable experience. 7/10. Check it out. Cheers!