Review of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is truly something special. The initial simplicity of its concept blossoms into a crescendo of inspirational and heartwarming lessons. The inevitable passage of time, overcoming regret, embracing fear, and practicing open communication are beautifully interwoven into endearing messages throughout. Consistently gorgeous artwork and breathtaking arrangements help to cement the emotional impact of each scene. Through deliberate and patient pacing, the story is only enhanced with an open mind. Moreover, the production and creative talent behind this project are genuinely outstanding. Please take the time to watch this in its entirety. This is one anime that you do not want to miss. Timeis one of the most valuable resources available to people, and is closely related to our growth as individuals. With our limited lifespans, we have the opportunity to shape our ideals, qualities and personality for the better. However, even in understanding the inevitable conclusion of our life, we often forget just how important, and short, the time we have is. Frieren at her core encapsulates this union between time and growth. Despite the overwhelming difference in lifespans, her perception of time can be likened to our own, simply on a different scale. We each determine how and where our time is spent, and what we might sacrifice in the meantime. Due to how Frieren spent her time, she became emotionally distant in her connection to others. And only in trying to understand people did she regain her appreciation of time, and the growth she could achieve with it. Her gradual acceptance of her regret and continuing efforts to truly learn about and love others is but one of the heartfelt messages found within. “People will not know how you feel unless you tell them.”

The establishment and building of connections are frequently explored during the season. Well-thought-out cinematography combined with the “show, do not tell” approach of writing further adds to its many strengths, both sorely lacking in modern media. Fear shown through the rattling of an object in Stark’s hand, or reluctance displayed in the gripping of Fern’s sleeve, conveys much more about the characters than any amount of over-explanatory dialogue could hope to achieve. While romance is by no means the forefront of the story, and but one of many examples to choose from for illustration, the subject is treated with delicate care far more than even shows dedicated to that genre. Emotions are conveyed through clever cinematic shots, romantic interests develop realistically over time, and healthy communication is particularly emphasized. There is no room for what pairs might form or if a relationship will pan out or not because the writing is assertive enough to lead you through the journey. It does not withhold natural developments to retain engagement for the foreseeable future. The author is confident enough to commit to character and story growth while continuing to hold the viewer's attention, even in the mundane. Furthermore, the near complete lack of common tropes, unrealistic character expressions and reactions, and the overbearing anime humor and culture is a breath of fresh air.

This passionate attention to detail on every level of production has greatly contributed to the overwhelming success of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. The enduring message it conveys, along with its phenomenal presentation, can be enjoyed universally. The passage of time is something that everyone can relate to. During this brief lifetime, we can better learn to understand and communicate with those dear to us, aspiring to improve ourselves as individuals. Even the simplest of gestures can show those we love that we care. Time is something that we cannot control, but we can control the moments we spend with others.