Netflix continues venturing into the world of anime, and Make My Day is its latest release. The show is created by Yasuo Ohtagaki, a popular sci-fi manga creator who previously produced Moonlight Mile and Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt. Makoto Honda directs the series, and Taiwanese 3D CG studio 5 Inc. will provide character designs and animation. Kensuke Ushio gives the music.
The cast includes Masaomi Yamahashi as Jin, Ayahi Takagaki as Marie, Kazuhiro Yamaji as Walter, Akio Ohtsuka as Commander Bank, Atsuko Tanaka as Cathy Besk, Bill Rogers as Prof. William Boyd, Ryan Colt Levy as Robert Howard, Sarah Anne Williams as Sarah and more. The show contains eight episodes with a runtime of approximately twenty-five minutes each.
The official Netflix description of the show includes the following:
On an isolated icy planet promising a bright future, prisoners are forced to excavate a rare energy source that leads to a deadly, unwelcome discovery.
–Make My Day Review Contains No Spoilers–
The show’s most intriguing aspect has to be the 3D animation that perfectly captures the essence of human emotions. It often feels like watching an action live, and the character designs were kept simple yet effective enough to elevate the storytelling process. Most episodes had a dark tone and setting, yet it did not interfere with the viewing experience. The intricate objects like machines and unknown creatures also remained pleasing to the eyes.
However, the plot of the anime failed to impress me. The story was predictable, and anyone could foresee what would ultimately happen in the end. But it still contained few original elements, like the creatures’ inception and motives. The added twists and turns were not fascinating enough. Nevertheless, the emotional backstory of the main character does touch one’s heartstrings.
Furthermore, the creators also included social commentary on the classist society and how the privileged do not hesitate to exploit the unfortunate. Controversial topics such as prejudice against criminals by the citizens also raise important questions. Settling on a new planet solely for the benefit of one’s species while harming the native dwellers is another crucial issue incorporated.
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The themes surrounding the show are legitimate problems that, currently, many people around the world are suffering from. Including important subject matter is an artistic choice that helps create a conversation. The creatures are not enemies, and the creators clearly point that out in the series.
The voice actors also did an incredible job of bringing the characters to life. Every emotion is conveyed perfectly, and the audience will feel an innate connection with the characters. The music also played a major role in creating an ambience which will make the viewers impatient with anticipation about the next scene.
Make My Day Review: Final Thoughts
The series contained every element to make it an interesting artistic experience. The high-technology 3D animation is the show’s most breathtaking aspect, creating an immersive experience for the audience. The characters displayed real emotions, and the audience is bound to relate to their stories.
Even though the plot lacked originality, it did maintain to keep the audience hooked throughout. The story involved many important themes surrounding the modern world. It can also be considered a cautionary tale for human society, constantly creating advanced equipment to explore and conquer the world beyond the stars.
All the episodes of Make My Day are now streaming on Netflix.
Did you watch Make My Day yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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