Berserk (1997) Anime Review: Revisiting the Legendary Anime Series

If you're an anime lover like me, you've probably heard of Berserk – the legendary series that has captivated fans for decades. With so many new anime series popping up, here’s a quick memory lane review of Berserk 1997 anime.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of Berserk, this review will give you a fresh perspective on this classic.

Guts and Casca

The story kicks off with Guts, our lone mercenary, hopping from one mercenary group to another until he meets the enigmatic Griffith. However, it's Casca, a key member of Griffith's Band of the Hawk, who stands out. One of the most controversial aspects of Berserk is the treatment of Casca. While she is a strong and capable warrior, her character often falls victim to moments of weakness that feel forced and degrading. For example, she faints in battle due to period cramps and loses to a comic relief character, which feels pretty unfair, especially when compared to the epic battles Guts engages in.

As a manga creator, this is something I strive to avoid in my own work. At Akachi Comics, we aim to create strong, well-rounded characters who are not reduced to stereotypes or plot devices. Characters like Casca deserve better, and it’s important to portray all characters, regardless of gender, with the respect and depth they deserve.

Berserk shines with its framing and visual composition. The demon scenes are particularly well done, showcasing the series' dramatic and thematic depth inherited from its manga roots. There’s this scene around a campfire where Casca and Guts talk about their dreams. It’s such a powerful moment, especially when contrasted with Guts' earlier battle where he defeated 100 men. The storytelling is just incredible, though I must admit, the treatment of Casca in earlier episodes still bothers me.

Guts and Griffith Snow Showdown

One thing Berserk does exceptionally well is dramatic gravitas. Every line feels weighty, like you’re watching a Shakespearean play. The showdown between Guts and Griffith in the snow is unforgettable. Despite limited animation, the series knows how to create impactful scenes. It’s easy to get swept up in Berserk’s intense drama and overlook its flaws. The complex characters and gripping narrative keep you hooked, even after all these years.

Rewatching Berserk has been an eye-opener. Aside from being my favorite, it’s still a powerful and influential series. The pacing issues, treatment of certain characters, and lack of animation quality are more apparent now, but its grand, epic tragedy and strong core story continue to resonate.

Speaking of epic stories and unique characters, I can't help but get excited about my own project – Akachi Comics. Inspired by my love for classics like Berserk, Fullmetal Alchemist, and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, I started Akachi Comics in 2014 with a short ebook called "Void Beast." Since then, it's been an incredible journey.

Void Beast is our best-selling series, following the story of TJ, a young werewolf trying to find his place in the world after losing his father. He’s left with a terrible and powerful legacy: the power of the Void, Shadow, and Gravity all packed into one. But can TJ carry on his father's will? This series brings intense storytelling, rich character development, and epic battles to life, much like the ones we love in Berserk. Recently, I’ve even taken up drawing to bring these stories to life visually. It’s been a thrilling experience, especially with my background in martial arts adding an extra layer of authenticity to the fight scenes.

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