Serial Experiments Lain

A deeply condensed show about alienation, human connection, God, surveillance and the Internet- issues that are more than ever prevalent and relatable today. One of the most abstract pieces of media I have laid my eyes upon and one of the most complex uses of the non-linear narrative. The use of surreal imagery really puts the viewer as a stand-in, to witness Lain's breaking psych - a mind losing comprehension. Some of the art direction is genuinely breathtaking, the opening green cross-square, Lain's computerized room, the motion-graphic scenes, Lain inside the Wired - all are beautiful. The use of the blood-spotted shadows for everything electrical related and Lain (foreshadowing?) was really interesting to see. The VA for Lain and Alice are amazing and ooooof the opening song. I have been listening to the song for over half a year now and I didn't skip Duvet even a single time. Having seen the whole thing, I don't quite see why people see the end as depressing. I mean if you look at it from a human perspective, it ends up with her being all alone but if you look at it from Lain's perspective, she eventually finds solace in whatever she did, and she did for the betterment of the world and her only friend, Alice. That is what makes her the real god. I think its a must watch, even if you're not into anime. It'll genuinely fuck with you if you try to find logical pieces to it. Its meant to resonate with you more rather than seem coherent. Brilliant.