Baccano!
A Bizarre Mayhem
Baccano! was one of the most popular anime in 2007. Because of its unique story and animation style, Baccano has a massive fan appreciation to this date. It is based upon light novels of the same name written by Ryohgo Narita and its artist Katsumi Enami. Brain’s Base later adapted it as an anime show. What sets Baccano apart from other animes is its one-of-a-kind animated style and how the story is told. All of it interconnected and genuinely interesting. The story is what I will be talking about in my Baccano! review.
Baccano’s incredible story is unlike any other. It follows three stories that form one big picture at the end for the viewer. The story is not told in order, so the first episode is actually its last episode, while an episode in the middle may be the beginning of the story. The story keeps shifting between events, different characters, and locations. As you start Baccano!, you will be mind-boggled because of how chaotic everything seems.
The more you watch, the more you will understand what is happening in the big picture. Baccano! is like an expertly crafted puzzle that pieces itself together when you finish watching the show. You will take your time to absorb the plot, you will take your time to understand what goes on, but you will be left with a deep sense of appreciation for the writers when you finish watching the show.
The story is told through multiple points of view and is set around a passenger train called Flying Pussycat. The train is boarded by thieves, cult members, assassins, alchemists, serial killers, mafia, thugs, and mercenaries. Crazy, right? Seemingly all these characters are unconnected at first, but when an ‘Elixir of Life’ resurfaces in 1930, their paths start to intertwine, entangle and create a giant mess. Each one of the characters is after the elixir to seek immortality.
Baccano! starts by giving you a peek at each character’s everyday life. Those few minutes are dedicated to understanding each character’s personality, behavior, and goals. Some people get disinterested in watching Baccano! after the first few episodes because it is “boring” and has “unnecessary storytelling,” but that is not the case. It is my viewpoint that this information is crucial to start the show. After the show picks up its pace and moves towards the main story, you will find yourself on the rollercoaster of your life.
The plot is set in the 1930s Prohibition Era of America in the city of New York. The first storyline occurs on New York’s streets in 1930, the second one on the Flying Pussycat in 1931, and the third in New York around 1932. These three storylines progress non-linearly and parallel to each other. All tell the same story leading up to a single point.
While the show technically ends in episode 1, which is the climax of the story, the plot progresses in such a unique fashion that will keep you hooked for 16 straight episodes to understand the finale’s chaotic mess. Baccano!’s story is immersive, entertaining, and unusual.
Baccano! has a unique art style that is instantly distinguishable from other anime. Considering it was released in 2007 by a small studio, the production quality feels outstanding. The high contrast colors and the character design are awe-inspiring. The show also does a fantastic job of heightening moments of drama and tension. The American architecture is spot-on, which shows how much research work was put into the production.
Baccano’s story is heavily centered around its characters. Every one of them has an interesting background and a different story to tell. As there is no central protagonist in Baccano!, each character contributes to its plot. It is not like other anime that have a lot of side characters for no reason. The progression of the story is heavily dependent on the actions of these characters. The characters also have interesting developments despite Baccano! being a short 16-episode anime. The sheer variety of that cast and their well-thought personalities make Baccano! one of those few anime where you fall in love with each character. Some of those are:
Felix Walken
Born as Claire Stanford and also known as ‘The Rail Tracer,’ Felix Walken is a legendary assassin who is best at what he does – killing. He is a young man with solipsistic behavior who believes that the world is merely a dream of his creation, a figment of his imagination. He thinks he cannot be killed in this fictional reality. Despite him believing that he is in a dream, he has his morals and shows empathy to those that deserve it. He is a man of pride that would do anything to have others acknowledge him.
Isaac and Miria
Isaac and Miria are not only romantic partners but also partners in crime. Both have charming personalities and show kindness to everyone by going out of their way to help others. Details about how the couple met are unknown, but they are two skilled thieves with a keen sense of attention and impulsive behavior. The two of them have committed a total of 87 heists. Once they set their eyes on something, it is difficult that it stays with its rightful owner.
Jacuzzi Splott
Jacuzzi Splott is a figure of importance in Baccano!. He is a young leader of a gang initially based in Chicago. He is good friends with Isaac and Miria, and he admires them both. Jacuzzi and his friends rob the Flying Pussycat leaving no wealth behind.
Baccano! is an underrated anime series that deserves more recognition. It is only a 16-episode show, but it packs all the great qualities needed to become a top-ranking anime. Its fluid animation, mind-boggling story, and jazzy music will keep you hooked if you have not watched Baccano! yet, you should consider adding it to your watchlist. It provides quality entertainment and an experience you will never forget. I’d personally give this show a rating of 8/10, and I believe that every single anime fan should give it a shot.
