'The Promised Neverland' Is Pretty Awesome

As what I prefaced my initial thoughts on it, The Promised Neverland is an anime you would want to go in with knowing as little as possible.  Of course, knowing absolutely nothing is the best scenario.  Thus, if you still have zero awareness or notion of what’s it about, then good for you!  You are in the position of watching this anime at the most optimum condition.  Don’t watch or read trailers, promos, and synopses about it anymore.  And don’t read further down this paragraph.  Go watch it first then come back (if you care for what I think of it).  In that way, its surprises – as they’re designed – will be more effective in blowing your mind.  But for those who have already seen it, read the manga, learned its premise and story, or just don’t mind being slightly spoiled, read on…

So The Promised Neverland revolves around 11-year-old orphans Emma, Norman, and Ray.  Being the oldest, most intelligent, and most athletic, the three best friends are looked up to by their “siblings” in Grace Field House – an orphanage under the tender care of 31-year-old Isabella, whom the children affectionately refer to as “Mama.”  While waiting to be adopted, the orphans enjoy a blissful life competing in daily exams and outdoor games.  They are well-clothed, well-fed, and well-housed.  Most importantly, they are well-loved by “Mama.”  The orphanage sits on a spacious, beautiful countryside which the children are free to explore and play on, provided that they don’t go beyond its boundaries.

But, one night, Emma and Norman sneak out of the House and go to restricted territory.  There, they learn the shocking, dreadful truth.  The House is not an orphanage, and the children are not being set up for adoption.  It’s actually a farm, and they are being raised to be food for demons!  Worse, “Mama” – the only parent they have ever known in their lives – is in cahoots with them!

Understandably, Emma and Norman are greatly shaken by what they discovered.  But they quickly realize that it’s imperative that they pull themselves together and maintain an appearance of normalcy in order to survive.  Soon, they let in Ray on the secret, and the trio – while going on with their daily lives as if nothing’s wrong – begin developing a plan that will let them escape with their other “siblings” before any more of them can be shipped out.

Early on, it’s strongly implied that Mama – who possesses remarkable intellect herself – has figured out that they have become aware of the truth.  Thus, playing a huge part in making the show riveting at its first few episodes is the psychological warfare between Mama and the kids, as they try to provoke each other to slip up while keeping the pretence of ignorance for what they know.  Inevitably, both sides have to eventually put their cards on the table, and the mental chess match afterward only becomes deeply more interesting.

This compelling dynamic is just a testament to the strong writing involve in its narrative.  It also provides the visceral might of the jaw-dropping revelations and the suspenseful storytelling that happens in between – key factors that make this anime so addicting.

Another factor is the investing characters.  I’m a big fan of cerebral fictional characters, so witnessing these intelligent kids work their minds to deduce things out and scheme strategy is so exciting for me.

Actually, it’s revealed early on that the reason the House emphasizes intelligence and fitness on the kids is because they will taste better.  Thus, it’s such a gratifying irony that the qualities instilled on them to make them more desirable demon food are the very same qualities that equipped them to be in the position to pull off a coup.

Meanwhile, Mama is an unforgettably intimidating villainess.  She inspires awe, seemingly having every advantage over the protagonists.  Outwitting her has the sense of something that needs to be legitimately earned, and thus, its occurrence – if it comes – will feel truly rewarding to both the protagonists and the audience.  Furthermore, she’s not a one-dimensional big bad.  There’s rich complexity in her character (hence, she’s a likely winner for Best Villainess in next year’s Bernels).

On top of its brilliant plot and characters are the arresting animation and splendid camera work, which work together to vividly render the characters’ emotions and setting’s atmosphere to the point that they resoundingly resonate with the captivated audience.  Further making the show immersive is the outstanding music that accompanies the visuals.

Speaking of music, this anime arguably has the best OP theme of the season (rivaled only by The Rising of the Shield Hero’s).  At one point, I found myself listening to it repeatedly.

In summary, The Promised Neverland is quite excellent in its technical aspects, production value, writing, and direction – all of which coalesce impeccably into the thrilling, intelligent, striking anime that it is.

The 12-episode debut season is pretty awesome, setting up a very high benchmark for next year’s season two.  Hopefully, The Promised Neverland can deliver once more.