Made In Abyss season 2: A phenomenal masterpiec
Made In Abyss Season 2 had massive expectations after the emotional and action-packed events of its predecessor, Made In Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul. Directed once again by Masayuki Kojima, known for his work on the acclaimed psychological thriller Monster (2004), this season was highly anticipated by fans. With Kinema Citrus handling the animation and Kevin Penkin back to compose the soundtrack, Made In Abyss Season 2 has all the key ingredients for success. It features 12 episodes, with the first 11 being standard 24-minute segments, while the finale extends to a special 47-minute runtime.
This season dives deep into the abyss, taking place in a single layer—the sixth, known as the Capital of the Unreturned. Unlike the first season, which emphasized exploration, this sequel focuses on the dark and intense story unfolding in this one layer. Akihito Tsukushi, the series creator, crafts an extraordinary yet brutal follow-up, pushing the characters to new emotional and physical limits.
A Journey Into the Unknown
The second season picks up with Riko, Reg, and Nanachi arriving at the sixth layer after surviving the horrific trials of Idofront and confronting Bondrewd. They come across the ruins of the legendary Golden City, home to bizarre creatures known as Hollows, who display human-like behavior and customs. Although Riko and her friends sense danger from the Hollows and their village, Iruburu, they are welcomed with open arms. As they settle in, the group unravels the horrific mysteries behind Iruburu, the Ganja suicide group, and the enigmatic Hollow princess, Faputa.
The tale that follows is filled with bloodshed, heartache, and suspense. Season 2 delves into themes of survival, resilience, and the search for purpose in a cruel world. Tsukushi’s ability to balance beauty with brutality is evident in every episode. As the story progresses, the characters, both familiar and new, face unimaginable horrors, yet moments of tenderness and hope shine through, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.
Gruesome, Yet Captivating
This season brings forth the most disturbing and mind-bending narrative in the Made In Abyss series to date. The tension is palpable, and you can’t help but feel a deep connection with the characters. Despite being confined to a single layer, the mix of horror, mystery, and suspense never lets up.
However, there are moments where the comedic relief and innuendo feel out of place. Given the dark and unforgiving nature of the abyss, these lighter moments can sometimes detract from the immersion. That being said, these scenes are also reminders of the show’s delicate balance between light and dark.
The season also features some plot conveniences that could have benefitted from more detailed flashbacks. It would have been helpful to get more reminders of crucial information from earlier characters like Ozen or Bondrewd.
Strong Character Development with Minor Flaws
One of the standout aspects of Season 2 is its character development. While most of the new characters’ storylines are handled beautifully, there are moments where the handling of Riko’s character feels lacking. Given her training under Ozen, a legendary cave raider, one would expect Riko to play a more active role in combat. Instead, she often appears helpless, relying on Reg and others to save her. This feels inconsistent with her development as a capable and determined heroine.
Nevertheless, Faputa stands out as one of the most impactful characters of this season. Her emotional journey and fierce dedication make her a fan favorite, and her performance leaves a lasting impression.
Stunning Visuals with Minor Setbacks
Visually, Made In Abyss Season 2 is a spectacle. The world-building and breathtaking landscapes transport viewers deeper into the abyss. From lush bridges to eerie caves filled with water, the settings are immersive and captivating.
The series doesn’t shy away from body horror and traumatic imagery, which amplifies the emotional intensity of the story. While the first season introduced viewers to some difficult-to-watch scenes, Season 2 ramps up the intensity. These gruesome moments are not for the faint of heart, but they are integral to the show’s impact.
However, there are some minor issues with the CGI in this season. Characters like Majikaja are well-rendered, but others, such as Belaf and the turbinid dragon, suffer from awkward CGI that detracts from their presence. Additionally, some episodes show inconsistencies in the quality of the 2D animation, which can be a bit jarring.
A Masterful Soundtrack and Stellar Voice Acting
Once again, Kevin Penkin delivers a magnificent musical score that elevates the emotional weight of the series. His work perfectly complements the visuals and storytelling, drawing viewers deeper into the world of Made In Abyss. The soundtrack not only enhances the tension and drama but also creates moments of serenity amidst the chaos.
The voice acting is also top-notch, with returning cast members and new additions giving performances that resonate deeply with the audience. Mariya Ise and Misaki Kuno, in particular, bring their characters to life with incredible depth and emotion.
Conclusion: A Phenomenal Yet Flawed Journey
Made In Abyss Season 2 is not without its flaws, but it remains a phenomenal continuation of the series. Tsukushi weaves a hauntingly beautiful narrative filled with unforgettable characters, stunning visuals, and emotional depth. While there are moments of tonal inconsistency and minor animation issues, the overall experience is one that leaves a lasting impression.
Season 2 stands as one of the most memorable chapters in the Made In Abyss saga. It may not be the final leg of Riko’s journey, but it’s one that captures the essence of what makes this series so unique—the constant balance of terror and beauty, hope and despair.
If you haven’t watched Made In Abyss yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. With its phenomenal storytelling, rich character development, and breathtaking visuals, it is a journey worth taking, despite the darkness that lies ahead.
