Prepare to be captivated by the brilliance of This World Can't Tear Me Down, the adult animated series that takes you on a mind-bending journey through the unique lens of Italy's revered cartoonist, Zerocalcare. Based on his acclaimed graphic novels, this show has landed on Netflix with a bang, attracting both devoted fans and curious newcomers. Trust me when I say, this is a ride you don't want to miss.
Step into the gritty streets of Dicksville, where chaos erupts following the arrival of 35 migrants from Libya. The neighborhood becomes a simmering cauldron of tension as opposing factions clash. On one side, we have the Nazis (or rather, the term used to depict fascists in the show) who are determined to oust the migrants and shut down the shelter. On the other side stands our protagonist, Zero, resolute in his opposition to the Nazis. Bravo, Zero!
But hold on tight because the twists and turns don't stop there. Enter Cesare, Zero's long-lost friend, returning after two decades spent in rehab for drug abuse. Brace yourself for the dramatic revelation—Cesare is one of the Nazis! Now, Zero is faced with the unenviable task of trying to open his misguided friend's eyes. Ah, the complexities of friendship and the webs we weave!
This World Can't Tear Me Down fearlessly dissects our shattered society, laying bare the broken souls who trample upon the disadvantaged in their desperate pursuit of recognition. It's a searing social commentary that will strike a chord, resonating with the deepest corners of your being. Zerocalcare's personal touch permeates every frame, making the narrative all the more impactful.
Adding a touch of humor to the mix, the show skillfully weaves clever writing into its narrative, poking fun at the very problems we grapple with. It's a delightful balance of wit and social commentary, offering a much-needed chuckle amidst the thought-provoking chaos.
What truly sets this series apart is its unflinching relevance. It fearlessly tackles the pressing issues of our time, reflecting the turmoil and struggles we face in the real world. Prepare to nod your head in agreement as you witness the raw, relatable experiences depicted on screen. It's like the show has lifted the pages from our collective diary and brought them to life—a powerful testament to its storytelling prowess.
But here's the real kicker: This World Can't Tear Me Down understands that our world isn't just black and white. It revels in the gray areas, showcasing characters like Sarah who make choices that initially leave us scratching our heads. Yet, as the layers are peeled back, their motivations and dilemmas come into sharp focus. Suddenly, these complex individuals become not just relatable but worthy of our empathy and understanding.
Don't expect any free passes in Dicksville, though. While the show delves into Cesare's troubled life, it never shies away from holding him accountable. It doesn't excuse his actions but rather confronts them head-on, delivering searing criticism and emphasizing the consequences of his choices. This World Can't Tear Me Down reminds us that actions have weight, and no one is immune to their repercussions.
Visually, the animation in This World Can't Tear Me Down is a feast for the eyes. It skillfully paints a picture of a worn-out world, mirroring the battered souls that inhabit it. It may not be conventionally beautiful, but its gritty aesthetic perfectly captures the essence of the human condition within those somber streets.
In conclusion, This World Can't Tear Me Down is a mesmerizing animated masterpiece that will leave you spellbound. Zerocalcare's distinctive perspective and the show's profound exploration of society will challenge your perceptions and provoke introspection. So, if you're a fan of socially aware, dark-humored animation, and can keep pace with fast dialogues, this series is for you.
Final Score- [9/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times