BNA: Brand New Animal
Synopsis
Throughout history, humans have been at odds with Beastmen—a species capable of changing shape due to their genetic "Beast Factor." Because of this conflict, Beastmen have been forced into hiding. Anima City serves as a safe haven for these oppressed individuals to live free from human interference. During a festival celebrating the town's 10th anniversary, Michiru Kagemori, a human who suddenly turned into a tanuki, finds that Anima City is a far cry from paradise. After witnessing an explosion in the square, she is confronted by Shirou Ogami, a seemingly indestructible wolf and sworn protector of all Beastmen. As they pursue the criminals behind the bombing, the two discover that Michiru is anything but an ordinary Beastman, and look to investigate her mysterious past and uncanny abilities. Could she turn out to be the missing link between Humans and Beastmen? [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Audience reception is generally positive, praising the show's art, animation, and music. However, many feel the story is rushed, underdeveloped, and relies on clichés. While the characters are likable, they often lack depth, resulting in a fun but ultimately unfulfilled experience.
Strengths
- Unique and vibrant art style, a breath of fresh air compared to generic modern anime.
- Excellent animation quality, especially during action sequences.
- Catchy and well-implemented soundtrack, including memorable OP and ED themes.
- Enjoyable character interactions and dynamics, particularly Oogami's backstory.
- Addresses themes of identity and self-acceptance well through the beastmen concept.
Weaknesses
- Story feels rushed and underdeveloped, particularly in the latter half.
- Plot becomes cliche and predictable, with unanswered questions and inconsistencies.
- World-building is inconsistent, with some ideas not fully realized or explored.
- Characters can fall into stereotypes, lacking depth and originality.
- Uneven pacing, with filler episodes frontloaded and exposition-heavy material later on.