Review of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead
Zom 100 is one of those anime that catches you completely off-guard. I usually need a few episodes before I form a strong opinion, but here, after just one, I was already overwhelmed in the best way possible. The first episode alone delivers such a visually wild, emotionally sharp, and creatively directed experience that I immediately knew this show had something special. The animation is incredible, packed with energy and impact frames that go far beyond what you expect from a first episode. The color work deserves particular praise. The use of gray, muted tones to reflect a suffocating lifestyle, contrasted with explosive, vibrant hues oncethe true story kicks in, is a stroke of genius. Visually, it feels alive in a way that very few anime manage.
At its core, Zom 100 is a story about freedom. About reclaiming your life when the world gives you an unexpected second chance. It mixes comedy, slice-of-life warmth, and just a touch of darker reality without ever feeling jarring. There's a strange kind of joy that pulses underneath the apocalypse, and it gives the show an energy that's both chaotic and genuinely uplifting.
The characters are a massive strength as well. The main character, Akira, while sometimes written as overly pathetic to the point of being slightly frustrating, is still easy to root for. The supporting cast is incredibly diverse and distinct, making every interaction lively and fresh. Special mention has to go to Shizuka, who's easily my favorite character of the show.
Throughout the episodes, Zom 100 continues to balance heartwarming moments, hilarious absurdity, and unexpected emotional weight. Even side characters who appear briefly, for not even full episode, leave a strong impression. The show never lets you forget that, underneath all the fun, the world is still dangerous and unpredictable. It reminded me a lot of what made Chainsaw Man so captivating. That ability to blend wild energy with real emotional stakes.
By the end of the season, I was fully convinced. While not entirely flawless, with some later parts introducing elements that felt a bit forced, Zom 100 never forgets what it is: a story that knows when to be serious, when to laugh, and when to just celebrate being alive. It is a comedy first and foremost, and it embraces that with heart and style.
The animation quality holds strong across the whole season, the humor is consistently top-notch, and the chemistry between the main group only gets better with time. If you are looking for something fresh, fun, emotional, and wildly creative, Zom 100 is absolutely worth your time. It easily ranks among the most impressive anime experiences I have had recently.