Karneval

(watched dubbed in English)

*Note: I just started the manga after watching the anime*

Nai–a young man who travels in search of another by the name of Karoku, a lone bracelet his only lead. Gareki–a willful young man who earns his daily bread by thieving and picking pockets. Thrown together at an eerie mansion, where they are entrapped and framed, Nai and Gareki are soon hunted down as criminals by national security forces. As they are driven into a corner, before them appears the most powerful defense agency in the country, “Circus”–!!

This story is full of mystery and adventure, keeping you on the edge of your seat, binge watching it all in one seating (as I did…). The art is beautiful, the characters engaging and interesting, and the story moves along at a good pace. It is definitely a show I would be willing to watch again.

My favorite character was Yogi, as he is one of the head people in Circus, yet he is just a nice guy wanting to get through the world. Although when his allergy patch comes off, he does seem like a different person…

The world that Karneval takes place in is quite believable, quite spectacular, and between this and Sailor Moon, it makes me want to join the Circus even more. I just wished we got to see more performances that they do in the Circus for each town, but I presume the manga will show a little more.

The anime has definitely been cut short, only 13 episodes, but the manga is being released in the United States so don’t fear! We shall know what happens next, at least I hope! It doesn’t leave off on a complete cliff hanger, but there are definitely some questions left unanswered.

I give this anime a 5/5 as the art is wonderful, it contains everything I want (circus theme, action, mystery, and a believable world). So if you are like me and love animes with circus themes, definitely check this one out! I will be reviewing the manga later, so don’t worry!

Dani