Review of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Story - 10 Code Geass fits into the mecha/action genre. The story of Code Geass centers on politics, prejudice, and vengeance. The notion of “conflict” is present throughout; characters are frequently at odds with their actions and values, and often have to make choices on where their true loyalties lie. Nothing is black and white, and motives that move the plot are filled with shades of gray. The story was complex enough that it was understandable yet interesting to follow and become invested in the series. Each episode began with a brief narration of the premise and purpose of the show. The plot was continuous throughout,and there were no filler episodes: each episode was significant to the story and plot. Code Geass has two seasons R1&R2, and features bittersweet ending. Nonetheless, the anime does not disappoint.

Art - 9

CLAMP was responsible for the character design and art concepts throughout both seasons of the anime. I think the art was fitting for the anime. I didn’t mind the body styles having more elongated proportions (i.e., long arms, legs, torso), but some viewers may not like that. Nonetheless, the art was unique, and compared to the art style in other anime, viewers would instantly know that the anime art is from Code Geass. Although many characters were drawn with similar body proportions and facial structure, I think all characters were unique in their own right. In other words, if you were asked to pick out a code Geass character out of a police line-up, you would be accurate on your choice since no character looks the same.

Sound - 9

I watched the dub version of the anime which featured the voices of Johnny Yong Bosch, Kate Higgins, Yuri Lowenthal, Karen Strassman as the main characters. I main voice actors are featured in multiple dubbed anime, yet despite this, each voice actor adapted to their role in stand out performances. The secondary cast standout voices include Mary Elizabeth McGlynn (Cornelia Li Britannia), Liam O’Brian (Lloyd), Steve Blum (Commander Tohdoh), and Amy Kincaid (Shirley). The translation of the script from Japanese to English also added more depth to the story. The first opening of the series is “Colors” by Flow, which is catchy and memorable. I can listen to this song on repeat. I wasn’t a fan of the second opening nor any of the endings. Kotaro Nakagawa was responsible for the majority of the tracks featured in the series (R1, R2, OVA). Nakagawa’s music enhanced the story and atmosphere of the plot. Tracks that stand out in particular include “Stories,” “In Justice,” “Occupied Thinking,” and “All Hail Britannia.”

Characters - 9

The characters in Code Geass were equally as important as the story, and there were no characters that I found dislikable (aside from those we are clearly supposed to dislike, such as King Charles). Characters were well-rounded, and had realistic strengths and flaws reflecting that human nature is imperfect. Characters all faced unique challenges, and were often placed in situations that challenged their personal values, forced them to choose between their friends, family, and duty. All characters, both protagonists and antagonist had their own motives and backstory that made placed them in a sympathetic light.

Lelouch Lamperouge (aka zero, Lelouch li Britannia) is the central character of the series, who accepts a contract with C.C. for the power of Geass. His actions are motivated by avenging his mother and trying to create a world in which his little sister can be happy. Lelouch has to live a double life that places him in conflict between his goals and his friendships, and shows that we can’t have our cake and eat it too. Lelouch comes to find that his actions have consequences, and the burden of Geass changes him as he loses those closest to him.

Enjoyment - 10

I generally steer clear of any anime mecha related, as I typically find anime of that genre quite boring. I also am someone that enjoys some sort of romance as a sub-plot. Despite this, this anime is considered one of the best of all time on my list, and Code Geass is an anime that any viewer can enjoy in my opinion. I have already started rewatching the series, which adds further support of how much I enjoy this anime. Given all the necessary elements of the series (plot, characters, art, sound), Code Geass stands out and will remain a memorable, stand-out anime.