Gangsta (2015) : A Gritty Crime Drama with Flawed Characters

Gangsta (2015) : A Gritty Crime Drama with Flawed Characters

Aired on Jul 2, 2015

Total No of Episodes : 12 

Gangsta is an anime series that immerses viewers in a dark and gritty world of crime, corruption, and complex characters. Based on the manga by Kohske, this anime adaptation delves into the underbelly of society, exploring the lives of "Handymen," two skilled individuals taking on dangerous jobs in the city of Ergastulum.

The story of Gangsta revolves around Nicolas Brown and Worick Arcangelo, the Handymen who are essentially mercenaries for hire. They take on various tasks ranging from bodyguarding to settling disputes, all while navigating the treacherous world of organized crime. As the series progresses, the duo becomes entangled in a web of conspiracies, rivalries, and personal demons, forcing them to confront their own pasts and make difficult choices.

One of the standout aspects of Gangsta is its dark and atmospheric setting. Ergastulum is depicted as a gritty and decaying city, plagued by violence, drugs, and corruption. The detailed animation and art style effectively capture the seedy underbelly, creating a sense of realism and immersing viewers in this harsh environment.

The characters in Gangsta are flawed and multifaceted, making them compelling and human. Nicolas and Worick are complex anti-heroes, each with their own demons and hidden depths. Their contrasting personalities and the bond they share drive the narrative forward, providing moments of intense action as well as emotional depth. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic prostitute Alex and various members of Ergastulum's underworld, adds further complexity and intrigue to the story.

The anime tackles mature themes such as violence, discrimination, addiction, and the consequences of one's actions. It doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of the world it inhabits, resulting in intense and gritty scenes that can be emotionally impactful.

However, it's worth noting that Gangsta does contain explicit content and graphic violence, which may not be suitable for all viewers.

The series' action sequences are well-choreographed and intense, showcasing the characters' combat skills and augmentations. The use of special abilities called "Twilights" adds an additional layer of complexity to the action scenes, further heightening the stakes and intrigue.

One potential drawback of Gangsta is its pacing and incomplete adaptation. The anime concludes with several unresolved plotlines and loose ends, as the series was unable to fully adapt the entirety of the manga due to production issues. This can be disappointing for viewers seeking a conclusive story arc.

In summary, Gangsta offers a compelling crime drama set in a dark and gritty world. With its flawed yet captivating characters, intense action sequences, and mature themes, the anime provides an engrossing viewingexperience. While the incomplete adaptation may leave some viewers wanting more, the series still manages to deliver a satisfying dose of crime, suspense,and character-driven storytelling.