B: The Beginning

The Netflix series B: The Beginning is an enthralling blend of mystery, science fiction, and fantasy, woven into a captivating and complex narrative that defies easy categorization. This 2018 production is an original anime series created by Production I.G, a renowned Japanese animation studio with an impressive portfolio, including Ghost in the Shell, Psycho-Pass, and Guilty Crown. The series is skillfully directed by Kazuto Nakazawa, best known for his work on Samurai Champloo, and Yoshiki Yamakawa.

Set in the cosmopolitan archipelago nation of Cremona, the story unfolds in a world that seems familiar and yet uncannily different. The seemingly peaceful city is plagued by a serial killer known as "Killer B", bringing a mysterious wave of tension and intrigue. This fear is the backdrop against which the multi-layered narrative unravels, shifting perspectives between various characters to portray a colorful and gritty worldview, threaded with overt and subtle elements of fantasy and contemporary technology.

The series predominately focuses on two protagonists, each pursuing their version of justice. Working to catch the notorious serial Killer B is the exceptional investigator Keith Flick, who returns to active duty with the royal police force after many years. A genius detective who has been away from the front lines for several years, Keith is a character of immense complexity, his analytical acumen paralleling his personal demons and tragedies. Trapped in his past and driven by a deep need for truth, Keith's journey anchors the series.

Simultaneously, the story introduces Koku, a seemingly mild-mannered young man with a dark history and remarkable abilities, far beyond the realms of human capabilities. Koku’s narrative spirals deeper and deeper into his nature as the series progresses, revealing parts of him that he struggles to reconcile with while trying to claw his way toward an objective only he is aware of.

These two narratives intertwine in unexpected ways, giving the audience a glimpse of an intricate tapestry of powerful storytelling that combines classic detective work, mythology, high-stakes action, and cutting-edge technology. The dark underbelly of Cremona's society and the terror of the elusive Killer B becomes the stage for critical moments of drama and thriller, all leading to a climax that upturns expectations and reveals the truth in a shocking reveal.

B: The Beginning is as much about its aesthetics as it is about its gripping narrative. The world of Cremona is a blend of beautifully rendered modernistic cityscapes and quiet, dreamlike natural landscapes. The visuals range from the mundane to the fantastic effectively, and the character designs are innovative and carry unique traits, combining classic elements of anime style with a modern twist that lends distinctiveness to the series.

The animation quality is consistently top-notch, helmed by the experienced team at Production I.G. Dynamic, well-choreographed action sequences, impactful character moments, and vivid, atmospheric settings – all are brought to life with finesse and a keen eye for detail. Soaring scores and intense background music that compliments the series' dramatic and suspenseful moments flawlessly underscore the animation.

Where mystery-thriller meets the world of the supernatural and futuristic, B: The Beginning manages to balance these varied components without becoming overburdened. Its strength lies in its complex characters, all of whom carry an air of mystery, making it hard for the audience to predict their next move or their deep-seated motivations. The series successfully merges the procedural detective narrative with elements of fantasy, sci-fi, and compelling drama that provides emotional weight to the characters’ journeys.

While B: The Beginning sometimes presents dense mythologies and intricate storylines that may seem daunting at the outset, patience rewards the viewer with a rich, multilayered narrative and compelling, emotive character arcs. It's a unique tale, a far cry from predictable narratives, and a promising addition to the fast-evolving world of anime with its ambitious storytelling and highly stylized animation. For those who revel in intelligent, suspenseful mysteries, immersive worlds, and engaging characters, B: The Beginning warrants a definite watch.