17:51. 24/10/2022.
Erased is, in my opinion, one of those animes that'll make you feel empty after watching it. It'll make you think "I wish I can watch this anime again like it was my first time", it'll make you feel, and it'll certainly be a memorable watch, one that you'll never forget.
First off, I'm a sucker for time-traveling animes with a bit of supernatural and mystery mixed in. And if you're like me, then this anime will really pass that vibe for you. It's got everything you could ask for as a thriller-mystery anime: whodunit, episodes that end on a cliffhanger and leave you wanting more, memorable parts that you'll recall for many more times to come.
The anime is all about a man who can turn back in time and prevent a life-threatening incident that is near him (sounds a lot like Re:Zero). However, when his mother is murdered, he is sent back in time years in his childhood, where he is given the chance to not only save his mother, but also right the wrongs of the past, and possibly fix his past mistakes.
The mature themes of the anime only add spice to this incredible anime, as it deals with sorrow and regret from not being able to do something in the past, and finding ways to change that and finally move on. It might sound tropey, but tropes are not necessarily bad, as long as they are executed in a way that is compelling, and understandable to the audience. Being given the chance, the protagonist sets out to right his wrongs of his past, and possibly rewrite the future he experienced.
Talking about the characters, all of them are likeable and memorable, with good development between the relationships of each of them. Even the antagonist is pulled off in a way where he is actually compelling and engaging. No characters are wasted, and each of them get to play a part in this incredible story where they all help move the plot along forward.
The only reason this anime has one off point is the fact that the ending with one of those characters.. leaves more to be desired, with the fact being that a certain character ends up together with another certain character who actually had no chemistry or any moment of intimacy leaves it a bit off for me.
Technical-wise, this anime is outstanding in that department as well. Music, both OP and ED are very good. Animation is stellar, with voice actors that really shine in their roles.
One of the best animes I've ever watched. Totally recommended.
