Review of Lazarus

Lazarus is a visually striking and thematically gripping anime that blends science fiction, action, and philosophical undertones in a post-apocalyptic setting. While not perfect, it’s a show that sticks with you long after the credits roll. The story isn’t groundbreaking in terms of structure—humanity on the brink, a mysterious antagonist, elite fighters trying to survive—but what sets Lazarus apart is how it's executed. Even if you've seen similar plots before, the tone and pacing keep things fresh. The fight choreography is tight and attention-grabbing, delivering high-energy sequences that feel impactful and grounded. These moments are easily among the show’s highlights. Visually, the art style leans toward thedarker and moodier side, with muted colors and shadow-heavy compositions. At first, it might seem a bit too gloomy, but as the episodes unfold, the aesthetic proves to be a perfect match for the show's bleak atmosphere and existential themes. It’s a gritty world, and it looks like one.

The characters are a mixed bag. While some are fleshed out with glimpses of vulnerability and backstory, others feel like they had more potential that just wasn't explored. I found myself wanting to know more—more about their past, their motivations, what drives them in a dying world. Their reactions to the increasingly dire events were mostly believable, though a bit more emotional depth could have pushed the narrative further.

That brings me to my biggest gripe: the ending. It’s not that it was poorly done—it’s that it left me craving closure. There's so much room for an epilogue or even a post-apocalyptic OVA that dives into the aftermath. What happens next? What became of the survivors? There's a hunger for answers that goes unanswered, and while some might appreciate the ambiguity, I personally found it frustrating.

That said, the final line—"Would it have been better for humanity to get wiped out?"—is haunting and brilliant. It encapsulates the entire series' moral ambiguity in one sentence, and it's stuck with me ever since.

Overall, Lazarus is an enjoyable watch, especially if you appreciate darker sci-fi narratives with a heavy dose of action and philosophy. It's not flawless, but it's thought-provoking, intense, and visually distinct. I recommend it to fans of shows like Psycho-Pass, Texhnolyze, or Ergo Proxy, who don’t mind stories that ask tough questions and leave a few of them unanswered.