Summer 2016: A Season of Good Endings
Summer 2016 will forever go down as a season of good endings, and one anime in particular has secured its spot in the year-end Top 10. That anime is none other than 91 Days, a series that proved to be a triumph from start to finish. With its unwavering focus and clear sense of purpose, 91 Days demonstrated exemplary storytelling, making it the epitome of series television. In an era where creative ambition and quality have declined, this anime stands as a shining example of the potential of original storytelling. When a talented writer like Kishimoto Taku is given the opportunity to craft a story specifically tailored to the medium, the results are nothing short of remarkable. Just like a bespoke suit, original anime possesses a perfect fit, a uniqueness and precision that is hard to come by.
The Appeal of 91 Days
It’s perplexing to understand why 91 Days doesn’t generate more discussion despite its intelligence and compelling narrative. Perhaps it’s precisely because the anime fits so well that there’s not much need for explanation. However, with the recent ending, it seems that the series has at last sparked a wave of conversation. One significant factor in the limited anime-like elements of 91 Days lies in its incredibly authentic American feel. The finale, in particular, deviates from traditional anime endings, leaning more towards the ambiguous style that isn’t usually well-received by anime fans. Nevertheless, for the type of story it seeks to tell—a morality tale, a Greek tragedy, a classic mafia drama—the ending fits perfectly, just like a tailor-made jacket. Comparisons to classic Hollywood films by renowned directors like Hawks, Scorsese, and Spielberg only reinforce this notion.
The Subdued Elegance of the Finale
The finale of 91 Days, directed by the talented Kaburaki Hiro, opted for a subdued and quiet ambiance, which may come as a surprise given the bursts of brutality throughout the series. Yet, Kaburaki’s skillful direction, combined with Kishimoto’s meticulous groundwork, allows for a perfect blend of personal drama and the symphony of the Vanetti empire’s demise. This episode served as the culmination of the entire series, focusing on the dynamic between Angelo and Nero.
An Endless Journey: Angelo and Nero’s Relationship
One of the standout moments in 91 Days was the early road trip shared by Nero and Angelo under vastly different circumstances. This time around, their situations couldn’t be more different. Both characters find themselves with a looming sense of impending doom, but their reactions diverge. Angelo, burdened with survivor’s guilt, seems resigned to his fate. He harbors no particular desire to continue living, which becomes evident as he accepts his eventual demise, regardless of whether Strega or Nero is the one to end his life. In Angelo’s case, his guilt stems from being the sole survivor of his family’s tragic fate.
Nero, on the other hand, has experienced a similar loss, having witnessed the deaths of his family members, including his own brother Frate. However, Nero demonstrates a desire to continue living, albeit with the weight of the mafia crown resting uneasily upon his head. To him, the choice is simple—one can either be alive or dead. Since they are bound to face death sooner rather than later, Nero decides to endure the struggles of life for as long as fate allows. He finds solace in transient pleasures like diners and bottles of booze.
What’s intriguing is Nero’s lack of hatred towards Angelo, despite everything he has done. Nero may feel rage, but deep down, there is a part of him that believes Angelo’s actions were justified—an eye for an eye. Similarly, Angelo reciprocates these complex feelings, confessing to Nero that he spared him at the playhouse out of genuine affection. Despite the evil they have inflicted upon each other, both characters possess relatable human qualities, enabling audiences to develop a liking for them.
An Ending Filled with Ambiguity
The ending of 91 Days may leave viewers with some unanswered questions, but this ambiguity aligns perfectly with the series’ overall tone. The possibilities are endless, and that’s the beauty—it reflects the absence of clear-cut right and wrong or justice in this world. There exists only life and death. Speculating on what should have happened to Angelo and Nero becomes irrelevant. Like footprints in the sand, they will eventually be washed away, leaving no trace of their existence. If there’s one moral lesson we can draw from 91 Days, it’s this: life is fleeting, and our actions, no matter how significant, ultimately succumb to the indifference of time.
Conclusion
91 Days proved itself as an exceptional and thought-provoking anime that defied conventions and gripped viewers with its storytelling prowess. The combination of a superb writer, meticulous direction, and a uniquely American atmosphere contributed to its success. The ending, even with its ambiguity, resonated with the essence of the series, leaving audiences with a profound message about life’s transience and the insignificance of our own stories in the grand scheme of things.
FAQs
1. Will there be a second season of 91 Days?
As of now, there are no official announcements regarding a second season of 91 Days. However, given the positive reception and enduring popularity of the series, there is always a possibility for future installments.
2. Who is the main antagonist in 91 Days?
While the series primarily revolves around the conflicting journeys of Angelo Lagusa and Nero Vanetti, the main antagonist can be considered to be Vincent Vanetti, Nero’s father, who sets the events of the plot in motion.
3. Are there any other anime similar to 91 Days?
91 Days is a unique blend of crime, drama, and revenge, making it stand out among other anime series. However, viewers who enjoyed its thematic elements and storytelling style may also appreciate anime like “Baccano!”, “Gangsta”, and “Black Lagoon”, which share some similarities in tone and subject matter.
4. Is 91 Days suitable for a mature audience?
Yes, due to its intense violence, mature themes, and complex characters, 91 Days is best suited for a mature audience. The series dives into the darkness of the mafia world, exploring themes of revenge, loyalty, and the price of power.
5. How many episodes are there in 91 Days?
91 Days consists of a single season with a total of 12 episodes. This concise episode count allows for a focused and tightly woven narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.