Parasyte
- The Maxim: Collection 1
(2014/Sentai Blu-ray Set)
Picture:
B+ Sound: B+ Extras: C* Episodes: A-
Shinichi
wakes up one day to find his right hand has turned into a parasitic
monster that views humans as a lower lifeform and food. Forced to
coexist with each other, Shinichi and his right hand 'Migi' soon
discovers most of the other parasites aren't so symbiotic. Viewed as
an anomaly, Shinichi and Migi is the only thing that stands between
mankind and the parasites from taking over the human race in Parasyte
- The Maxim: Collection 1
(2014).
Shinichi also wakes up to discover a parasite trying
to devour his brain and take over his body. They soon discover other
parasites around the world are have begun killing and devouring
humans. On the plus side, Shinichi gains enhanced strength, hearing,
speed and not to mention his arm can turn into any weapon. By the
time the government discovers and reacts to the parasites, it is
already too late and the parasites have already infiltrated the upper
echelons of government and positions of power.
This anime is
based on an old manga, while updated it is set in the modern times.
It follows the typical path of hero, after a tragic event our hero
goes from nerd to hero, gaining super powers (sorta like Spider-Man).
However, unlike Superheroes of the West heroes, our story is a lot
more gruesome, filled with blood, guts, dismemberment and dead
bodies. My only complaint is this was only half the series and I
would of liked to seen it complete.
The
1080p 1.78 X 1 digital High Definition image on each show is really
good-looking, sharp clear and well produced, making fir a very
watchable, enjoyable show that does not look like an old manga.
Soundtrack choices are both DTS-HD MA (Master Audio) lossless mixes,
but you get a 5.1 English option and somewhat more authentic Japanese
mix, but only in 2.0 Stereo and not also 5.1 like many may have
preferred. Fortunately, both sound terrific so its not as
compromised or problematic as it might seem.
Extras
include clean opening and closing animation and trailers, but the
Limited Edition Box Set in the picture accompanying this review
offers those and far more goodies, so serious fans will probably want
to consider spending a few more bucks to get it while supplies last.
Episodes
include...
The
Metamorphosis
- Shinichi begins to learn how to coexist with his new right hand and
how dangerous the parasites are.
The
Devil in the Flesh
- Shinichi encounters his first human parasite.
Symposium
- Shinichi meets the parasite Ms. Tamiya Ryoko, who finds Migi and
Shinichi's case interesting and remains neutral ...for now.
Tangled
Hair
- A parasite attacks the school. Ryoko is forced to leave for
'maternity' reasons.
The
Stranger
- Shinichi deals with bullies at school. A parasite take over
Shinichi's mother and kills...?
The
Sun Also Rises
- Migi saves Shinichi and they evolves even further. Shinichi vows
to avenge his mother.
A
Dark Night's Passing
- Shinichi encounters another person who lives symbiotically with a
parasite and together they avenge Shinichi's mother.
Freezing
Point
- Shinichi gets a new look. Ryoko sends another parasite to
'observe' Shinichi.
Beyond
Good and Evil
- The parasite Shimada claims to be neutral to Shinichi, but
continues eating humans when no one is watching.
What
Mad Universe
- After being discovered, Shimada goes on a a rampage at school,
killing everyone. Shinichi kills...?
The
Blue Bird
- Shinichi discovers the parasites have taken over the government.
Kana has romantic dreams of Shinichi.
Kokoro
- Shinichi tells Kana the truth to try to keep her safe, but in the
end she still gets killed by the parasites. Shinichi realizes that
telling others the truth doesn't keep them safe.
-
Ricky Chiang
