Review of Parasyte: The Maxim

Shinichi was an ordinary Japanese schoolboy until a tiny alien snuck into his room. It aimed to take over his brain but got stuck in his hand. Now, they must figure out how to work together to survive and fend off less friendly visitors from outer space. Like bodysnatching aliens, the writer disguises his coming-of-age story as a sci-fi thriller. The plot starts as an action-packed adventure, gradually exploring themes of humanity, teamwork, love, and purpose. Adversity puts Shinichi and his alien friend in an existential crisis, forcing him to discover their overall reason for living along the way. Main plotlines develop, adding layers ofdrama and ending with emotional payoffs. However, each major event is followed by mopey soap opera scenes that drag down the general pace.
Madhouse Studio has provided solid animation for decades, and this show is no exception. High detail and smooth movement help showcase fast-paced, metamorphic action. However, the "realistic" visual style limits the stylistic potential of the source material. Besides creative shapeshifting sequences, the rest of the shots are plain character designs in mundane streets, hallways, and rooms. The colorful, dense palette used in Ufotable movies could have been a better choice to enhance the visuals and atmosphere. The soundtrack hits with a lackluster mix of outdated dubstep and metalcore, but then shifts to more fitting somber music as the plot becomes more serious. Overall, it’s an engaging story that doesn't overstay its welcome. Some scenes contain gore and disturbing moments, but the show never ventures deep into shock horror territory. Parasyte is a character-driven drama first and foremost.