Review of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Code Geass: DUB or SUB As an anime fanatic since childhood, there’s always a distinct remembrance of tv series that leaves you with great memories. Luckily, I came across this show through recommendation via an MAL friend who had a liking to mecha anime. Here’s a brief overview of a memorable journey. Hope you enjoy! Synopsis (No spoilers): While no show is perfect, Code Geass follows the story of Lelouch (Lulu) Lamperouge, a former heir to the throne of higher class royalty in a distorted totalitarian empire named Britannia (in the current landscape of Japan). Japan has been dividedinto two areas, one that favors the Britannian empire, and Area 11 (a small region of Japan) consisting of “pure blood” Japanese natives who survived previous attempts of extermination.

From the first episode, it's evident that Lelouch has faced significant persecution from royalty, and higher class society which is mostly attributed to the current status of his immediate family; focused specifically on the ailments of his sister Nunnaly. Irrespective of opposition, we are introduced to the cast of characters that the plot follows, including a mysterious character named C2 (or CC if you're watching the sub), and Suzaku Kururugi (a character working within the Brittanian military to influence change). While the hook in this first episode revolves around an unknown power tied to C2 (CC) known as “Geass,” Lelouch embarks on a journey of overriding political corruption from within the Britannian empire, seeking vengeance, justice, and answers regarding his tragic past. The rankings are as follows:

Story: 9

Themes: Mecha, Strategy, Political, Drama, Action, Adventure, Romance..

With Code Geass, it's a show that isn't afraid to give you a mixed bag of everything. While I think there are flaws in the second season of the plot, the story maintains its consistency around Lelouch’s character as he overcomes tremendous opposition with the unique “Geass” power he wields. This story has one of the best conclusions of an anime, and in the overall community, is regarded as one of the best of its kind (don’t spoil yourself). This story revolves around creating change within political systems of corruption, paired with the uncertainty of these situations. Like some other S-Tier anime, Code Geass creates a story that is incredibly hard to predict in what Lelouch and the supporting cast are planning. While out strategizing opponents can get tiresome at times, it maintains its consistency by staying creative, and leaves a good element of shock value to the story's progression.

Art: 8

Studio: Sunrise

From my perspective, considering my late 90’s N64 gamer bias, I can’t say that the art is a detrimental factor to a show's (or even video game’s) quality. With Code Geass, Sunrise studio does a nice job with character design, despite many complaints that may revolve around how skinny the characters are drawn. Coloration and aesthetic of the characters and the environment are super bright, so that's something you may have to adjust to. If you’re coming to this show for the art itself, I can’t say you’re going to be highly impressed, even though the show does a good job. Definitely above average, but nothing spectacular.

Sound: 7

I wasn’t a huge fan of the soundtrack, despite some very good intros, endings, and openings to the seasons. This is probably the only area of the show, I would argue, that is lacking in high quality. In terms of the sound design within the show itself, it's pretty standard, and does a nice job replicating environments and action sequences well. Unfortunately, if you’re looking for intensely good music, I wouldn’t say this show is top tier in that area.

Characters: 10

The character cast of Code Geass has a strong foundation. I found myself loving more and more characters as they were introduced throughout the show. Give or take, there were about 15 plus characters introduced, from the heroes versus villains perspective. I think a show that can allow someone to favor characters on both sides of a story can really enhance a shows quality, and in Code Geass’s case, they balance it well. This is very noticeable in the first season, especially in episodes 12-18. Additionally, this show is not afraid to kill off characters, which increases the level of unpredictability to the viewer. Code Geass leaves the viewer to question “who’s side are you on,” and creates a lot of inner dialogue. I found myself questioning motives, strategies, and the results of decisions that either created progress or influenced further chaos. Either way, you’ll be questioning why the characters do what they’re doing, and it leaves an element of thrill and excitement no matter how you watch.

Enjoyment: 10

While level of enjoyment is extremely subjective from the viewers perspective, I would say this show had a ton of high moments. Lelouch, as an MC, drives the plot of the story, and the supporting cast all seem to play into his sandbox. While Lelouch is far from omnipotent, other characters like Kallin, C2 (CC) and Suzaku make the show a wild story of tragedy, betrayal, and justice. These supporting characters all get a fair amount of screen time, which allows time for the viewer to enjoy these characters for who they are. I think you’ll have a lot of options to choose from in terms of characters you can relate and follow throughout the series.

Overall: 10

Plain and simple, this is a very bingeworthy show. I watched this when I was in my early 20’s and I still have had a few rewatches in between, now in my 30’s. It's a show that has tremendous replay value, and one that is easy to revisit. If you enjoy a little aspect of every genre in anime series as a whole, this show will provide a nice few months of enjoyment for you. If you’re not into mecha anime, I suggest you either give this one a try, or completely bail. Otherwise, this for me is a Top 10 all time series.