Review of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Code Geass is the best portrayal of a cliche and story in anime. Although The story lacks any originality and consists of a few plot holes, watching Code Geass will give you a high that likely won't be matched by any other anime that you watch. Therefore, despite it's flaws CG has become a classic that deserves praise from critics and fans alike. Story: 7 We start with CG's weakest component. CG's story of the forgotten prince seeking revenge against his father's empire is nothing new. Add in some supernatural powers and mechs and you have a cliche anime retelling of a classic story. These powers introducesome plot holes (why doesn't Lelouch just use his geass to cpnquer Britannia from the start?), but these plot holes are easy to ignore while watching. Moreover, the central themes of the story are mostly cliche: Do the ends justify the means? Actions have consequences. Is a peace possible between an imperial power and its subjects? In short, nothing that we haven't seen before. I actually do not think that episode 22 was bad writing since it fit with one of the stories themes that "one's greatest strength is also one's greatest weakness." That said, CG has a mostly solid plot that is mostly very well paced and that provides enough twists and turns to keep the viewer constantly engaged.

Art: 8
Love it or hate it CLAMP's style works well with CG. The animation is also mostly very good especially during the fight scenes. Nothing incredible, but overall very good.

Sound: 9
The music always serves to elevate tension during battle sequences and rarely do you notice if a track is repeated. The voice acting displays emotion well and the actors truly manage to bring each character to life. Moreover, the OP/ED themes (Especially COLORS) fit the anime perfectly and are honestly a jam.

Character: 9
Most of the characters in CG are 2-dimensional. However, these characters (Shirly, Nunnally, loyd, jeramiah, etc) do not play a large role in the series, so it is ok that they do not develop. The standout character of the series is our main protagonist (or is he an antagonist? who knows) Lelouch. Lelouch is a genuinly fleshed out charcter with evident flaws that make him relatable despite his genius intellect and the evil deeds he performs. Despite slowly transforming into a villainous character, Lelouch manages to retain his humanity, making the viewer continue to support him in even light of some of his highly questionable actions. The other standout character is Suzaku. Yes, I hated him. But Suzaku was meant to be hated. He was purposefully portrayed as the primary obstacle of Lelouch and his stubborness was meant to infuriate us just as it infuriated Lelouch. Suzaku was the "anti Lelouch," the self righteous hero who constantly defended that the ends do not justify the means. However, Suzaku, just like Lelouch takes a questionable path to achieving his actions. The more Suzaku tries to end war the more destruction he causes. Throughout the series Suzaku gradually becomes a complex character who is not only infuriating but also a perfect complement to our protagonist.

Enjoyment: 10
Geass isn't perfect but its extremely entertaining and addicting. Watching CG is always a fun experience!

Overall: 9