*This article contains promotional material.
basic information
- Work name: Lycoris Recoil
- Genre: Gun action, girls' combat, everyday life x thrill
- original work: Spider Lily (original anime project by Aniplex and A-1 Pictures)
- director:Shingo Adachi
- Broadcast period: July to September 2022 (13 episodes in total)
- production：A-1 Pictures
- Media Development: Anime, comic book, novel, Blu-ray, and many merchandise
"Licorice Recoil," an original anime, quickly became popular due to its high level of perfection and vivid character portrayals. After it aired, it sparked a frenzy that was dubbed the "Licorice phenomenon," with fan art and discussions sweeping social media.
Synopsis
Japan's public order is protected from the shadows by a secret organization called "DA (Direct Attack)." The young female assassins trained there are called "Licorice," and they exist to nip crime in the bud.
One day, Takina Inoue, an ace Licorice who coldly carries out her missions, loses her place in the world when her actions to protect her teammates are deemed a violation of discipline. She is sent to Cafe Licorice, where she meets Chisaku Nishikigi, a cheerful and overpowered warrior.
At first, Takina is annoyed by Chisaku, whose activities are centered around helping people and taking on everyday requests. However, as they spend time together, Takina begins to reexamine the meaning of life, and Chisaku also learns the warmth of spending time with friends.
Before long, the two become embroiled in a large-scale terrorist attack that shakes the city and a secret that threatens Chisaku's own life.
The charm of the characters
Nishikigi Chisato
He has a cheerful and positive personality. He treats everyone equally and has the overwhelming ability to neutralize even his enemies without killing them.
Her belief that "I want to live to protect people" makes her a special person, not just an assassin, but "Licorice the Saver."
Takina Inoue
He prioritizes discipline, is efficient, and hates waste. At the beginning, he gives off a cold-hearted impression, but as he is manipulated by Chisaku, he gradually becomes more emotional.
The human awkwardness hidden behind his cool appearance resonated with many viewers.
Dogwood, walnut, mica
The friends at Cafe Ricorico: Mika, the tolerant adult, Kurumi, the reliable informant, and Mizuki, a former intelligence officer. Each of them is the "unsung hero" that supports the story and adds warmth to it.
Imagery and atmosphere
The animation by A-1 Pictures is stylish and vibrant, with action scenes like gunfights and hand-to-hand combat that are as powerful as they are in the movies, while the characters' gestures and expressions are carefully drawn.
The dialogue between Sensaku and Takina in particular draws viewers in with its cutely exaggerated expressions and skillful changes in pace between serious scenes.
The city's background art and the warm color scheme of the cafe are also impressive, giving a soft, everyday feel to the dark worldview.
Memorable scenes
- The gunfight shows Chisoku's belief that "I want to protect people without killing them." The way he subdues the enemy unscathed makes him look like a true "hero."
- In the scene where Takina thinks of her friends and is torn between returning to DA headquarters or staying with Chisaku, her wavering feelings resonated strongly with viewers.
- The climax of the story reveals the truth that concerns Chisaku's life and Takina's desperate feelings. The ending, in which the bond between the two is tested in an extreme situation, brought many fans to tears.
Recommended for:
- People who like gun action
- People who want to enjoy the dialogue between characters and their growth stories
- People who are attracted to works that intersect the ordinary and the extraordinary
- People who want to experience yuri-like friendship and bonds
Similar works
- "BLACK LAGOON": For those who want to enjoy gunfights and the strength of young female characters.
- Puella Magi Madoka Magica: A fusion of cute characters and serious plot developments.
- "Angel Beats!": A youth drama with the theme of life and death.
- Sword Art Online: Also produced by A-1 Pictures, it shares similarities in its depiction of action and human relationships.
Q&A
Q1. Is the relationship between Senzoku and Takina romantic or friendly?
→ Although it has not been officially stated, it depicts a strong bond and mutual understanding, and can also be interpreted as yuri.
Q2. Will there be a sequel?
→ The production of a movie version has been decided, and further developments are expected.
Q3. What about comics and novels?
→ Comic versions and spin-off novels have been published, so even those who have not watched the anime can enjoy it.
summary
"Lycoris Recoil" was broadcast as an original anime and quickly became a social phenomenon.
The contrast between the bright and positive Chisoku and the calm and clumsy Takina gives the story a depth that goes beyond a simple buddy story.
Stylish action, the warmth of everyday life, bonds with friends, and a theme that questions the meaning of life... it's a masterpiece that combines all of these elements.
This is a must-see gun action x human drama that can be recommended to a wide range of people, from anime beginners to core fans.
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Other works by the author
Since "Lycoris Recoil" was originally planned by Spider Lily, there are no other works by the author. However, director Shingo Adachi is known for his character designs in "Sword Art Online," and production company A-1 Pictures has worked on numerous masterpieces, including "Blue Exorcist" and "Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day."
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