The Garden of Sinners Chapter 1: Overlooking View
Synopsis
A series of eerily similar suicides occupy newspaper headlines in late '90s Japan. Amidst all the bizarre resemblances, there is one detail that stands out above the rest: the victims have all taken their lives by leaping from the Fujou building, a run-down abandoned structure rising high above the city. Shiki Ryougi, a cold-hearted girl living in an empty apartment, suspects that these sinister events have a supernatural cause. Possessing a mystical power herself, Shiki works to investigate the incidents alongside Touko Aozaki, a doll-making detective specializing in magic, and her friend Mikiya Kokotou who works as Touko's assistant. Shiki unravels the mystery as she ventures through an enigmatic world to uncover the dark secrets surrounding the strange phenomenon. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Audience opinions are divided, with many praising the visual and auditory elements while criticizing the confusing narrative and underdeveloped characters. Some find the film pretentious and inaccessible, while others are intrigued by the mysteries presented and willing to continue with the series. The lack of clear storytelling and character introductions is a significant point of contention.
Strengths
- Stunning art and animation by Ufotable, with detailed backgrounds and fluid action sequences.
- Well-implemented sound effects and music that heighten the atmosphere.
- Intriguing premise with potential for character development and exploration of dark themes.
Weaknesses
- Confusing, non-chronological storytelling that lacks proper exposition and character introductions.
- Pretentious and vague dialogue that attempts to sound intelligent but lacks substance.
- Weak character development, making it difficult to connect with or care about the main characters.