86: Eighty Six

Characters & Voice Actors

Shinei Nouzen MAIN	Shouya Chiba
Vladilena Milizé MAIN	Ikumi Hasegawa
Chise Oosen SUPPORTING	Masamu Ono
Jerome Karlsthal SUPPORTING	Satoshi Mikami

A Poignant Reflection on War and Humanity – “86: Eighty-Six”

“86: Eighty-Six” is a stunning anime that delves deep into the harrowing realities of war, human connection, and the sacrifices made in the name of survival. Set in a dystopian future, where two distinct societies exist in stark contrast, the series follows the intertwined destinies of the “handlers” and the “processors.”

The handlers, residing in the utopian Alba city, live in blissful ignorance, shielded from the horrors of war by an oppressive government. The processors, on the other hand, are the forgotten souls who fight on the front lines, known as the ‘Eighty-Sixers’. This stark juxtaposition serves as the foundation for the series, giving rise to themes of inequality, discrimination, and the dehumanization of those deemed expendable.

The true strength of “86: Eighty-Six” lies in its character development. The protagonist, Shin, is a complex and multifaceted character, burdened by the weight of command and the lives he’s responsible for. His relationship with Lena, an Alba handler who defies convention to connect with the Eighty-Sixers, forms the emotional core of the series. Their dynamic is beautifully written and evolves organically, offering moments of heart-wrenching vulnerability and genuine camaraderie.

The supporting cast is equally well-crafted, each member of the Spearhead Squadron contributing a unique perspective to the narrative. The camaraderie among the Eighty-Sixers is palpable, and viewers will find themselves deeply invested in their struggles and triumphs. The series does an admirable job of humanizing these characters, showcasing their hopes, fears, and dreams, even in the face of despair.

The animation and art style are top-notch, with intense battle sequences that are both visually striking and emotionally charged. The mecha designs are sleek and complement the grim, war-torn landscapes, creating a stark contrast between the beauty of Alba and the harsh reality of the battlefield.

“86: Eighty-Six” also excels in its world-building, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the consequences of war and the lengths societies go to dehumanize the ‘other’. The allegorical elements in the series provide a rich layer of depth, prompting viewers to reflect on the parallels with real-world issues.

While “86: Eighty-Six” is undeniably a grim tale, it never loses sight of the resilience and hope that can arise from the darkest of circumstances. It poses profound questions about the nature of humanity and the sacrifices made for survival, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of introspection.

In conclusion, “86: Eighty-Six” stands as a testament to the power of anime as a medium for thought-provoking storytelling. With its compelling characters, thoughtfully crafted world, and poignant exploration of war and humanity, it is a series that demands to be watched and discussed. This anime is a triumph that will resonate with those seeking a narrative that challenges, moves, and leaves a lasting impact.