Heavenly Delusion

Production I.G Spring 2023
AdventureMysterySci-FiSeinen
8.2
Quality Score
0.20 (Mild Positive)
Audience Mood
7 / 10
Controversy
286,786
MAL Ratings

Synopsis

Fifteen years ago, disaster struck human civilization, and now dangerous man-eating monsters roam the ravaged lands, posing an existential threat to the remaining survivors. Amid this turmoil, an isolated facility shelters children and nurtures them in peace. However, as a few among them find out about the world beyond the narrow periphery of their nursery's walls, their curiosity about it slowly grows. Meanwhile, in the outside world, young survivors Maru and Kiruko band together to search for a special place called Heaven, each for their own reasons. Carrying past burdens and tragic secrets, the two hope to find answers to the cruelty they have experienced in their lives and in the world, which still remains in tatters. [Written by MAL Rewrite]

Audience Consensus

Tengoku Daimakyou is a visually stunning anime with a compelling post-apocalyptic setting and intriguing mysteries. However, the series is marred by pacing issues, unnecessary and disturbing content, and unresolved plot threads. While some appreciate the show's ambition and world-building, others are left disappointed by the execution and handling of sensitive themes.

Strengths

  • High production value with detailed art and sound design.
  • Intriguing mystery elements that encourage viewer engagement and discourse.
  • Unique world-building and exploration of a post-apocalyptic Japan.
  • Well-crafted characters with fascinating backgrounds.
  • The dual narrative adds additional charm to the plot.

Weaknesses

  • Pacing issues with boring and pointless scenes, especially those involving the children in 'heaven'.
  • Unpleasant and unnecessary sexual violence, particularly towards the end of the series.
  • Too much 'new' mystery without enough building on existing mysteries, leading to unanswered questions.
  • The LGBTQ+ representation is questionable and mishandled.
  • The main characters on the 'outside' have no likeable qualities
Available on: Disney Plus, Star+, Hulu, Hulu (availability varies by region)