Cowboy Bebop

Episodic neo-western stories that explore the lows of humanity in a high sci-fi world. The bounties and crime of the underworld are pulpy, gloriously filmic, and fluid; each frame is as dizzying and infatuating as the jazz or ambient, bluesy guitar behind it. My favorite moments are quiet, isolated, and filled with characters who surprise themselves with emotion, in tundras of empty space. Still watching, but this is a rich spectacle to watch each time. It's occasionally convoluted or too easily ended, but it all makes sense stylistically. Whatever happens, happens. Crime, comedy, horror, and adult themes are animated into a cruel, crisp, crude existence. Mushroom Samba, Pierrot Le Fou, brain-scratching—each mystery is as tantalizing as the last. That finale—bang! I'm doing it to see if I'm really alive. Running from your past, we're doomed to repeat it until we realize it was a dream. The walkout to the bright steps was breathtaking. Such a solid artistic show with such a compelling band of characters. One of the best anime, and shows in general. Such a unique and powerful show.