Berserk Review: A Dark Fantasy Landmark
8.5/10 — Berserk (1997)
Pros
- Powerful, tragic story
- Memorable score
- Great Guts and Griffith dynamic
Cons
- Limited animation
- Incomplete story
- Graphic content
Guts, a lone mercenary, joins the Band of the Hawk led by the charismatic Griffith, and their bond is tested by ambition and betrayal. The 25-episode series adapts the ‘Golden Age’ arc.
What works
The story is gripping and tragic, and Guts and Griffith’s relationship is the heart of it. Susumu Hirasawa’s score is memorable, and the finale is infamous and powerful.
Where it falters
The animation is limited and uses many still frames, and the series ends on an abrupt note, leaving the story unfinished. It contains graphic violence and abuse.
Verdict
A dark, influential classic despite its limitations.
