Frieren: Redefining the Fantasy Genre with Beyond Journey's End (Review)

The highly anticipated Fantasy anime Frieren: Beyond Journey's End kicked off with an impressive two-hour premiere, immersing viewers in its opulent world and endearing characters. It joins the ranks of recent series premieres like Oshi no Ko, which showcased movie-quality content in its extended premiere episode. However, Frieren's lengthy runtime serves a purpose beyond mere publicity. Its captivating storyline sets the stage for a potential anime of the year contender.

Rather than starting where many other shows would end, Frieren's first episode follows a group of adventurers who have successfully vanquished the Demon Lord and returned to the capital in triumph. Among them is Frieren, an immortal elf who remains detached from her companions' playful banter. After the festivities, she embarks on a personal quest to collect spells, only to return many years later and witness the toll time has taken on her party. This awakening prompts Frieren to embark on a profound journey to comprehend the essence of her mortal comrades, delving into themes of life, death, and the bonds formed along life's path.

Frieren is a Touching Meditation on Life and Death

©️ Kanehito Yamada, Tsukasa Abe/Shogakukan/ ”Frieren”Project

Frieren stands out in a landscape dominated by action-packed Shonen series like the influential Jujutsu Kaisen. Instead of high-stakes battles, Frieren focuses on simple tasks like finding flowers or cleaning up the beach. Some anime fans may be put off by the lack of constant fights and world-threatening crises, but for those who give Frieren a chance, they'll discover a more introspective and thought-provoking experience.

Not only does Frieren delve into deep subjects, but it also captivates viewers with its stunning art and animation. While shows like Chainsaw Man impress with intricate and cinematic visuals, Frieren takes a different approach. Its almost painterly style perfectly complements the fantastical world it creates and allows for moments of pure beauty. This unique aesthetic also allows the anime to effectively convey stories visually, showcasing the characters in various situations within a short period of time.

Frieren's Premiere Hints It Will Be a Modern Classic

©️ Kanehito Yamada, Tsukasa Abe/Shogakukan/ ”Frieren”Project

The viewers of Frieren's characters are bound to fall in love with the premiere, as it creates a captivating experience that leaves a lasting impression. Despite lasting only two hours, the premiere effortlessly provides insight into the unique perspective of the immortal character Frieren on the passage of time. If the rest of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End lives up to the exceptional quality of its mesmerizing premiere, it will undoubtedly be remembered as a groundbreaking modern classic that revolutionizes the popular Fantasy genre. Watch Frieren: Beyond Journey's End now on Crunchyroll.