Review of Parasyte: The Maxim
Izumi Shinichi, a seventeen year old high school student, lives a fairly quiet life with his mother and father in a quiet neighborhood in Tokyo. One night, alien parasites fall to the Earth, infecting humans by entering their mouths or ears. Once infected, the parasite takes control of the host’s mind and physical form, essentially becoming their host. One parasite attempts to infect Shinichi while he sleeps but, because of the headphones in his ears, burrows into his arm instead. Shinichi awakes in horror to discover that the parasite – which he later names Migi – has taken control of his right hand and arm.The story follows Shinichi and Migi, two beings with their own separate drives, intellects, and existence, as they attempt to coexist, explore the purpose of the parasites’ arrival, and survive in a world where aliens, disguised as humans, see humans as a means to an end.
Story (9) : Kiseijuu is easily one of the best shows of the 2015. A deeply psychological and philosophical anime, Kiseijuu uses Shinichi’s struggle to maintain his humanity despite his increasingly superhuman abilities to examine what it truly means to be human and the relationship humans should have with other living creatures. As Shinichi becomes exposed to Migi’s strain of consciousness and other parasites and their motivations, he becomes caught in numerous internal debates, such as wondering if humankind’s relationship with animals is truly different from the parasites who must feed on humans to survive. Migi, with his distinctly logical thinking, grows to understand human empathy and emotion, as well as what it truly means to live. Another well paced story, the series juxtaposes its philosophical messages with a strong focus on Shinichi’s character development and growth.
Characters (8) : Shinichi is a believable young man who reacts realistically after being subjected to a rather terrifying situation. Migi, although almost robotic and obviously disconnected from human emotions and motivations, is even likeable for a character essentially devoid of emotions. However it is in their interaction and cohabitation together where the two really combine and shine. Kisejuu even supports its two protagonists with a strong set of supporting characters that not only drive the show’s plot, but give a peek into both human and parasite societies as well.
Animation & Design (8) : Although nothing particularly noteworthy, Kisejuu’s animation, particularly during fighting scenes, does well to portray just how creepy the parasites can be.
Sound (10) : EPIC, JUST EPIC...One of the main reasons why I started this anime....
Overall (9) : I'm rating this 9, because it has several negative things that I didn't like at all.... but I would recommend this anime who likes Sci-fi/ horror genre...