91 Days (Original Japanese Version)

91 Days is a gripping, original Japanese version anime series initially aired in 2016 that masterfully combines elements of mafia crime dramas, suspense, and historical fiction across 13 riveting episodes. The core storyline of the series unfolds in the fictional Lawless town set during the bustling Prohibition Era, a time marked by bootlegging and organized crime in the United States. Viewers gain a panoramic view of this era, along with the tangled web of relationships among mafia families, law enforcement, and civilian power brokers.

Created by Studio Shuka, 91 Days captures the powerful narrative through brilliant animation and dialogues, delivering the essence of a dramatic crime saga with the aesthetic beauty of anime. Rife with action and plot twists, the series manages to hold its viewers spellbound within its intense atmosphere. The design of the characters in 91 Days is aesthetically dark and brooding, complementing the aura of the series, and reflecting its grim nature. The landscapes are reminiscent of 1920's America, beautifully encapsulating the spirit of the era. Ignoring the familiar gloss and vibrancy of many modern anime shows, 91 Days instead opts for a historically accurate color palette featuring shades of sepia, brown, and beige.

The central character around whom the story revolves is Avilio Bruno, a young man leading a quiet life. However, living as a recluse doesn’t lessen the burden of his tragic past, a past stained by the devastating murder of his family, a crime perpetrated by the powerful Vanetti mafia. Upon receiving a mysterious letter prompting him to return to Lawless, he decides to face his past head-on and embarks on a mission of revenge against the Vanetti family.

Avilio Bruno’s journey is fraught with danger, deceit, betrayal, and violence as he maneuvers through mafia power struggles, showcasing unabated resolve that continues to intensify throughout the series. His character's evolution -- from a withdrawn individual to a suave, strategic, and determined avenger, forms the crux of the narrative, beautifully portraying the strength of purpose and the destructive power of vengeance.

91 Days does an impressive job of developing rich, realistic characters that strengthen the narrative. Apart from Avilio, other characters such as Nero Vanetti - the charismatic yet naive son of the Vanetti don, and Corteo, a loyal friend deeply affected by the violence surrounding him, add depth and dimension to the plot.

The resounding background score and theme music by Shōgo Kaida and TK of Ling Tosite Sigure, respectively, significantly enhance the viewer's experience, further amplifying the dark, enigmatic vibe that typifies the drama.

Despite being steeped heavily in the themes of mafia gore and vengeance, what makes 91 Days unique among other crime-oriented anime is its deep exploration of human emotions and the motivations behind people's actions. Issues of loyalty, morality, friendship, and the very concept of right and wrong are thrown into question, offering viewers a detailed examination of the human psyche under extreme circumstances.

The series thoughtfully uses symbolism and narrative techniques to drive home its central theme: vengeance and its implications. It leaves viewers pondering the thin line that separates right from wrong, and the extent to which one will go to avenge their loved ones. The series showcases how vengeance, while providing a strong motivation, can also consume one's life, often making it as tragic as the event that incited the revenge.

In conclusion, 91 Days is a compelling story of revenge and redemption, enveloped in the shadowy corners of a crime-riddled Prohibition Era town. This essentially character-driven narrative captures a dark and thrilling tale interspersed with moral ambiguity, betrayals, the violent mafia lifestyle, and power politics. From the multi-layered characters, carefully crafted storyline, to the wonderfully executed settings, 91 Days guarantees a rich, cinematic experience that will leave viewers buzzing with tension, anticipation, and analyzation long after the credits roll.