Noein: Episode 01

Rahxephon and Scrapped Princess constantly runs through my mind when I initially previewed Noein. After showing a wasteland of a seemingly post-apocalyptic world in that oh-so-gorgeous opening teaser, one may hypothesize that the contemporary setting is nothing but an artificial world. Perhaps a sealed dimension to protect its citizens or possibly to lull the majority of a false sense of security.

While I am not overly enthused with Noein, I am in agreement with BluWacky, Matthew, and KT Kore: This first episode emanates a special glow reserved for potentially extraordinary series. It deserves the praise given to the pilot, animation and narrative wise.

The pacing is deliberate, mysteries are set, and questions are bound. It is visually captivating and intellectually stimulating. However, it somehow lacks warmth, an important aspect to this viewer. Perhaps it is intentional. The feeling of detachment engulfs the atmosphere. Even the easy camaraderie between friends cannot soothe this scrutiny. Everyone seems to have walls surrounding them. It’s just that there’s constant boundaries. Almost to the point of suffocation. Argh, I don’t think I make sense.

I might have mentioned I am not terribly fangirl-y over this title but, boy, Noein has certainly jolt my brain cells into activity. Unraveling the string of mysteries and postulating improbable scenarios will definitely be fun this season. Thanks to Priestess of En for suggesting this series. I might not be head-over-heels at the moment but I have a feeling this may change if Noein sets course in the right direction.