Zom 100 - Zombie Apocalypse Reimagined
Big names like "Bleach" and "Jujutsu Kaisen" may come to mind when you think about the most popular anime shows right now. However, a new contender called "Zom100: Bucket List of the Dead" is proving to be a surprising smash this season. It launched alongside some of the industry's biggest heavyweights, but thanks to its original plot and distinctive animation style, it has amassed a considerable fan base. Instead of being your typical zombie apocalypse, this tale defies expectations and keeps viewers wanting more!
Plot Overview
We join Akira Tendo, a 24-year-old young man who just graduated from college. He gets his first job at ZLM, a renowned corporate behemoth, eager and enthusiastic. His first day is incredibly successful, giving him confidence in his future and job prospects. However, just when Akira thinks he is done for the day, he has to run back to the office…
Akira rapidly discovers that the demanding work schedule, lack of sleep, heavy job, and lack of free time are quickly becoming his new normal. His daily routine devolves into a repetitive slog that includes getting up early, working nonstop for long stretches of time, and on the worst days, working nonstop for many days. He hardly ever has time to even relax and sleep in his own apartment, much less take delight in life's simple pleasures.
His co-workers have become accustomed to surviving on energy drinks and sleeping under desks in this poisonous work atmosphere. Numerous advantages are offered by the employer, such as annual paid vacations, mental health days, and holiday time off, but due to the heavy and never-ending workload, these are rarely utilised.
After three years of this horrifying cycle, Akira is reduced to a mere shell of his once-vibrant self and resides in a filthy apartment that he hardly uses for sleeping. The once-vibrant young man is now just another "corporate zombie," so lifeless that he considers suicide as a way to end his torturous life. Everything in his world has faded into drab, meaningless hues of black and white, and there is no colour left.
When he believes this is all life has to offer, an odd turn of circumstances results in a startling change. When Akira awakens, he discovers that his landlord has become a genuine zombie. He feels this unexpected relief as the infection spreads throughout the city and the swarm of zombies begins to surround his apartment building. He is finally free from the soul-crushing corporate existence even if the world as he knew it has come to an end. He feels vibrant and even thrilled for the first time in years.
Akira begins living his life according to his own terms after viewing the apocalypse as a freedom. He creates a list called "100 Things I Want To Do Before Becoming A Zombie" that includes all the experiences he wants to have during the epidemic. Under the imminent threat of the zombies, his list includes things like declaring his emotions to the woman he has adored, Shizuka Mikazuki, and getting dreadlocks.
Akira is accompanied by Kencho, a friend from his college rugby team, who frequently serves as the voice of reason in the middle of Akira's crazy notions. They set out to discover the world as a pair, facing the horrors and avoiding the hordes of zombies. Despite being ridiculous and entertaining, Akira's escapades offer a new, vibrant viewpoint to a genre that has long been overrun with the same themes and stories.
Social Commentary
In the current anime season, "Zom100" stands out due to its profound social satire. It focuses on the effects of the infamous Japanese workplace culture and goes beyond the zombie subgenre. The main character, Akira Tendo, represents the common situation of Japanese office workers who are entrapped in businesses that reduce their quality of life and passion, effectively converting them into "corporate zombies".
The portrayal of Akira's co-workers at ZLM in the show highlights the reality aspect even more. These individuals reflect all the typical office stereotypes you may have come across! From the too eager to please to the perpetually annoyed, caffeinated mid-level manager. These characters are entertaining while also sharply criticizing workplace politics.
Animation and Visuals
The anime "Zom100" by Bug Films features a distinctive visual aesthetic. Tendo's life story is masterfully depicted visually through the use of color. His early work at ZLM is initially shown in vivid colors to represent his passion. However, the demanding professional life ultimately results in a subdued, monochrome portrayal, highlighting the tedium of his existence.
When the zombie apocalypse starts, there is a twist in which the colors suddenly make a striking return. Contrary to popular belief, the apocalypse is not only depicted with the usual bloody red, but also with vivid waves of blue, green, and yellow, giving the horrific events an unusual appeal.
My personal favourite, the usage of a cinemascope aspect ratio, gives the series a theatrical sense. It's something that really complements the amazing images that the Bug Films team provided! The animation is also of surprisingly high quality, displaying minute details and colorful character designs. All of us feel captivated by the narrative thanks to its intricate visual presentation.
Therefore, "Zom100" might be worth checking out if you want another take on a zombie apocalypse! Your expectations may be exceeded, just as they were for me, by this exceptional animation. Wrapping things up, this anime does make me realize one thing; we really need to appreciate what we have and live life to the fullest!
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