Atom: The Beginning
Synopsis
Japan in the near future suffers an unexplained major disaster. Five years later, reconstruction is well underway. Two young researchers at a university are pinning all their hopes on robot development. Now their new interpretation of the eternal hero Astro Boy up until his birth is just about to start! (Source: Showgate)
Audience Consensus
The audience is generally disappointed with Atom: The Beginning, citing wasted potential due to filler episodes and underdeveloped characters. While the art, animation, and music are praised, the story fails to fully explore the interesting premise of AI sentience. Some viewers found enjoyment in the characters and world, while others felt it didn't live up to its potential as an Astro Boy prequel, leaving it as a somewhat forgotten anime.
Strengths
- Good art and animation, especially robot designs.
- Strong opening and ending themes with good OST.
- A106's character development and exploration of AI sentience is captivating.
Weaknesses
- Episodic format with a lot of filler that doesn't develop the main plot.
- Unexplored potential of AI consciousness concept.
- Underdeveloped and uninteresting supporting characters, especially Tenma.