Leviatan

Leviatan is an enchanting anime that graced the screens in 2013, developed by the Anime Network. The series is one that enthralls fans with its peculiar blend of fantasy elements, captivating characters, and a strikingly immersive world, well-rendered with visually enticing animation. The show's thematic underpinnings resonate within a spectrum of motifs such as friendship, bravery, and inherent magic in the unknown and unexplored aspects of the universe.

The narrative follows the adventures of a trio of magical girls, Jörmungandr, Bahamut, and of course, Leviatan herself. They are named after mythical creatures from diverse mythologies. Leviatan, for example, shares her name with an enormous sea monster from biblical lore. This enthralling trio resides in the mystical world of Aquafall, a tranquil paradise boasting clear blue skies, sprawling meadows, and sparkling waters teeming with spirited, vibrant aquatic life.

Leviatan, the protagonist, is a fun-loving and kind-hearted young girl. She is unique as the last of her kind— a community of sea-dwelling dragons. As she tries to understand her place and purpose in Aquafall, oftentimes tussling with feelings of solitude and introspection, she stumbles upon Jörmungandr and Bahamut. The trio quickly forms a bond seeing their inherent compatibility, shared quirkiness, and common place in the wide world before them.

Jörmungandr is a friendly and cheerful girl. She carries an air of regality, which is far from being intimidating, rather it adds a layer of charisma to her personality. Bahamut, on the other hand, brings a balanced contrast to the team - being more level-headed, practical, and composed. Each character's unique qualities beautifully complement each other, creating a balanced and charming camaraderie.

However, the tranquillity of their world, Aquafall, gets threatened by a sudden invasion. Meteors start crashing down, carrying with them dangerous creatures introduced as the 'Toripu' and 'Syrup'. These invaders pose a formidable threat to the peace and prosperity of Aquafall.

Witnessing the impending doom, the fairy Syrup becomes the catalyst for change. She calls upon Leviatan and her newfound friends, to form an alliance, known as the Aquafall Defense, to counter the malevolent forces threatening to corrode their world's harmony. Syrup encourages the girls to harness their individual magical abilities and use them to challenge and repel the invaders.

The story then trudges through their journey filled with suspense, camaraderie, discovery, and bouts of engaging battles. The series is notable for its successful melding of a variety of genres, threading the aspects of action, drama, fantasy, and adventure seamlessly, while embarking on moments of comedy to lighten the overall tone. The result is a well-rounded show with personality, suspense, and a significant dose of magical charm.

The striking visuals and accompanying music score add more depth and nuance to the series. The animation style is vibrant with character designs being adorable and easy on the eyes, contributing to the overall appeal of the show. The picturesque landscapes of Aquafall are vivid and aesthetic, successfully creating an aura of fantasy and wonder. Moreover, the background music and sound design work in tandem with the colorful artistry, further enhancing the viewing experience.

The glistening blue water habitats, lush green forests, and the cosmic realm are brought to life with stunning sound effects, well-placed humor, and gripping cliffhangers. Additionally, the beautifully orchestrated soundtracks amplify the narrative’s tension, action, and emotions, effectively capturing the essence of each scene.

Furthermore, Leviatan does an excellent job of character development. Each character grows, learns, and matures with every unfolding event. Their bonds deepen, their understanding of the world expands, and they become more adept at wielding their magical abilities. Through their journey, they face fears, recognize their strengths, and in many ways, discover themselves.

Overall, Leviatan is a captivating anime that draws the audience into its vibrant world full of magical creatures, fantastic landscapes, and incorrigible villains. With its lovable characters, perilous yet exciting adventures, and striking display of valor and friendship, it keeps the viewers hooked and wanting more. A refreshing blend of fantasy, adventure, and drama, Leviatan crafted in 2013, is indeed a treat for all anime fans out there.