Tokyo Override Review: Good Idea, Mediocre Execution

A new animated series from Netflix has arrived that depicts the underbelly of a highly optimised society. Let us see how this series fared and whether you should watch it or skip it.

Tokyo Override Overview

Tokyo Override plunges viewers into a gripping tale of speed, mystery, and betrayal set against the neon-lit streets of a futuristic Tokyo. The story follows Kai, a solitary and reserved protagonist, whose life takes an unexpected turn after she crosses paths with a group of enigmatic bikers.

Directed by the dynamic duo Yuske Fukada, known for his work on Ultimate Beastmaster alongside Sylvester Stallone, and Veerapatra Jinanavin, who brings a unique blend of Hollywood expertise and Thai artistry, the series offers a visually stunning experience. Featuring real-life motorcycle designs and collaborations with Yamaha Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co., Tokyo Override seamlessly merges pop aesthetics with noir elements.

Tokyo Override premiered on November 21 exclusively on Netflix. The series is produced by RiFF Studio and promises high-octane action and a compelling narrative.

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Tokyo Override Review and Recap

The world portrayed in this series is that of a futuristic society that is fully optimised and tries not to waste even a single second on mundane activities. Artificial intelligence is so advanced here that even movement from one place to another takes zero effort, as a hoverboard-like circle is there to assist you all the time. In such a society, what else can you ask for other than some good old freedom? Well, the residents want a fast, enhanced and seamless experience of life, thus, no one bats an eye at the fact that the government has access to all their activities.

Our protagonist, Kai, would not have cared as well had she not been such a big simp for her friend and landed herself in unnecessary trouble. It is from this point the plot enters into dark waters, and we find out about the shady things happening in this seemingly perfect city.

Tokyo Override, at its core, is a love letter to bikes, and you feel it from the way the race segments are portrayed, giving us a sense of rush and liberation in a society where everything is controlled. It further proves its symbolic nature, considering riding bikes and using cars are obsolete and only used for entertainment on race tracks.

The people from Suma Garage also represent the parts that do not fit in with the new and advanced world. They are a bunch of misfits who ride fast bikes and make deliveries of anything and everything that the system deems illegal. However, they also become an unlikely family to Kai, who had to survive alone all her life.

The story, the backdrop, and the message of how our technological advancement can become a curse in disguise are all great and relatable. In our very own world, we are running a risk of being too reliant on artificial intelligence and losing our sense of freedom for an easy way out. But when it comes to the execution of these ideas, the series falls short.

The screenplay is messy as, most of the time, we are not given enough information on what is happening, making us come up with our own explanations. Other than that, the main character’s background is barely explored, and there’s no explanation given for why and how she’s such an incredible hacker at such a young age. This makes her feel less believable as a character.

Verdict

While there are issues in this series, it is also visually unique and engaging. The fast pace and short amount of episodes promise a satisfactory and entertaining one-time watch.

So, I will certainly suggest you watch it and decide for yourself whether you like it or not.

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