Tokyo Ghoul √A review: A deeper story and shocking developments

Tokyo Ghoul √A - The Journey to the Abyss

"Tokyo Ghoul √A" is the second season of the TV anime series based on the popular manga "Tokyo Ghoul" by Ishida Sui. It aired from January 8 to March 26, 2015, and consists of 12 episodes. It was directed by Morita Shuhei, animated by studio Pierrot, and was available on multiple channels including TOKYO MX.

story

"Tokyo Ghoul √A" is a direct sequel to the previous work "Tokyo Ghoul" and depicts the further suffering and growth of the main character, Kaneki Ken. As a half-ghoul, half-human, Kaneki fights alongside his friends while searching for his own meaning in life and his way of life. The story revolves around the conflict with the anti-establishment ghoul organization "Aogiri Tree," and deeply depicts Kaneki's inner conflict and the bond with his friends.

The story begins with Kaneki making up his mind to throw himself into the Aogiri Tree. He deepens his bonds with his companions while searching for who he should be and how he should live. In particular, his relationships with Touka, Hinami, and new characters are important elements of the story. In addition, the battle with the CCG (Corporate Ghoul Countermeasures Bureau) intensifies, and Kaneki's strength is put to the test, helping him grow.

character

Many characters are explored in depth in Tokyo Ghoul √A. Below are the main characters.

Ken Kaneki

The main character. Half ghoul, half human, he fights while searching for the meaning of his existence. He is the central character of the story, and the conflict in his heart is depicted.

Touka Kirishima

A ghoul girl and one of Kaneki's companions. Her relationship with Kaneki is deeply depicted, and she is an important presence that supports him.

Rize Kamishiro

The woman who caused Kaneki to become a ghoul. Her existence has had a huge impact on Kaneki's heart.

Amon Kotaro

A CCG investigator who watches over Kaneki's growth through his conflicts with him.

Akatsuki Mado

A CCG investigator, he works alongside Amon and throws himself into the battle against Kaneki.

Ayato Kirishima

Touka's younger brother. As a member of the Aogiri Tree, he opposes Kaneki.

Senju Takatsuki

A writer who knows about the existence of ghouls. His relationship with Kaneki adds depth to the story.

Animation and performance

The animation of "Tokyo Ghoul √A" is a work that highlights the high technical ability of Studio Pierrot. The depiction of the battle scenes in particular is extremely realistic and makes a visual impact. In addition, the emotions of the characters are conveyed through their expressions and movements in a superb way, drawing the viewer into the story.

Director Shuhei Morita faithfully recreates the atmosphere of the original work while adding his own interpretation to create a work with greater depth. In particular, the combination of visuals and music is used effectively in the scenes depicting Kaneki's inner conflict, moving the viewer's heart.

music

The music of Tokyo Ghoul √A is an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the story. The opening theme "Mukuhyou" is performed by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure, and its powerful melody and lyrics enhance the tension of the story. The ending theme "Eriza" is performed by amazarashi, and its deep lyrics and melody express the inner thoughts of Kaneki.

The music in the film is also very impressive, helping to liven up the battle scenes and emotional scenes. In particular, the soundtrack by Yutaka Yamada has the power to stir the emotions of the viewer.

Evaluation and Impressions

While Tokyo Ghoul √A has been highly praised by fans of the original work, it has also been subject to debate over the differences between the original work and the anime. In particular, opinions were divided over the plot and character treatment that differ from the original work. However, the anime's unique interpretation and direction have earned it praise as a work with a different appeal from the original work.

Viewers highly praised Kaneki's growth, the relationships between characters, and the intensity of the battle scenes. The quality of the music and animation was also praised, and the film received very high praise overall. In particular, the scenes depicting Kaneki's inner conflict touched the hearts of many viewers.

Recommended points

Here are some reasons to recommend "Tokyo Ghoul √A":

• Deep storyline and character development : Kaneki's inner conflict and the bonds he has with his friends are depicted in depth, drawing viewers in.
• Powerful battle scenes : Studio Pierrot's advanced animation technology allows you to enjoy realistic and powerful battle scenes.
• Impressive music : The opening, ending, and in-game music all play an important role in adding excitement to the story.
• Differences from the original : The anime's unique interpretation and development makes it a work with a different charm from the original.

Related works and recommendations

If you enjoyed Tokyo Ghoul √A, we also recommend the following related works:

• "Tokyo Ghoul" : The predecessor to this work, it depicts Kaneki's awakening and growth as a ghoul. It is a must-see to understand "√A".
• "Tokyo Ghoul:re" : A sequel to this work, with new characters and storylines. You can enjoy Kaneki's story after "√A".
• "Tokyo Ghoul S" : This is an OVA of the original work, and is an animated version of an episode from the original work. It can be enjoyed as a complement to "√A".
• "Tokyo Ghoul:re [S]" : This is an OVA of ":re", and is an animated version of the original episode. It will help you to understand the story after "√A" in more depth.

We also recommend the following works that have similar themes and atmospheres:

• "Death Note" : A work that depicts the ethical conflicts that arise when the protagonist has supernatural powers. Like "Tokyo Ghoul √A", this is a work with deep themes.
• "Attack on Titan" : A work that depicts the battle between humans and titans, with deep character growth and conflict. This work will resonate with fans of "Tokyo Ghoul √A."
• "Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress" : This is a work that depicts the battle against the zombie-like existence "Kabane", and you can enjoy the power of the battle scenes and the growth of the characters. Recommended for fans of "Tokyo Ghoul √A".

Conclusion

"Tokyo Ghoul √A" is a work with many charms, including a deep story and character growth, powerful battle scenes, and impressive music. Although there has been some discussion about the differences from the original work, the anime's unique interpretation and direction have led to it being praised as a work with a different charm from the original. For those who enjoyed "Tokyo Ghoul √A", we also recommend related works and works with similar themes. Be sure to check out these works as well.