In the realm of animated entertainment, Netflix has boldly ventured into uncharted territories with My Daemon, its first Thai-produced animated series. Conceived by Taiki Sakurai and Tom van Waveren, My Daemon presents a captivating narrative spanning 13 episodes, delving into the profound bond between a young boy named Kento and a supernatural creature known as a daemon. However, this daemon companion is far removed from the realm of family-friendly fantasies like Pete's Dragon. Instead, My Daemon immerses viewers in a dark, post-apocalyptic world where human hostility reigns supreme.
The story unfolds in the aftermath of a devastating nuclear blast strike, where young Kento stumbles upon an injured daemon and takes her under his care, naming her Anna. Together, Kento and his devoted daemon companion Anna embark on a perilous journey through unseen realms, facing mounting threats and confronting the harsh realities of their post-apocalyptic world.
Kento's research presentation serves as a disturbing introduction to the deep-seated fear and prejudice that humans harbor toward daemons. His classmates recoil in unbridled horror at the sight of Anna, and even the ordinarily kind local nun struggles to conceal her visceral dismay. Their revulsion underscores the instinctive human impulse to eradicate entities that lie beyond our comprehension.
My Daemon is a visually captivating animated series that transports viewers into a fantastical future, where mesmerizing backgrounds complement the intricate world-building. However, the CGI character models for Kento and Anna fail to impress with the same level of polish as their rich environments. Their designs and animation appear somewhat flat compared to the fully realized post-apocalyptic world. Despite this minor shortcoming, the brisk pacing ensures that the narrative remains focused and engaging, avoiding meandering detours into dull tangents. Each scene seamlessly weaves the next thread in themes of perseverance and the enduring power of kindred spirits.
One of the most compelling aspects of My Daemon is its exploration of the complexities of human nature, particularly the deep-seated fear and prejudice that can divide individuals and communities. The series challenges viewers to confront their own preconceptions and biases, prompting reflection on the dangers of intolerance and the importance of empathy and understanding.
The relationship between Kento and Anna serves as the emotional heart of the series, a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of the post-apocalyptic world. Their unwavering brotherly bond provides a testament to the power of friendship and the enduring strength of love amidst adversity.
Despite its strengths, My Daemon is not without its flaws. The uneven visual integration of Kento and Anna's CGI models somewhat diminishes the overall visual impact of the series. Additionally, the plot occasionally veers into predictable territory, with certain character developments and narrative twists failing to surprise or challenge viewers.
My Daemon is a captivating and thought-provoking animated series that delves into the depths of human nature, exploring themes of friendship, perseverance, and the blurred lines between empathy and fear. With its dark, post-apocalyptic setting, captivating characters, and a narrative that seamlessly interweaves action and emotion.
My Daemon emerges as a compelling addition to Netflix's growing animation repertoire, offering a unique and engaging viewing experience for fans of the genre. Ultimately, My Daemon is a worthwhile watch for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant animated series.
Final Score – [8/10]
Reviewed by - Arpita Mondal
Publisher at Midgard Times