Corrupted for the Right Reasons: Terror in Resonance
Japan is ultra-preventive and cautious when it comes to actions of terrorism.
Although there are only a few cases every year, the authorities are on high guard at all times to prevent irreversible damage and a strain on the tranquility and the ordonnance of Japanese society. Regardless, this preoccupation is definitely a source of inspiration for countless artists and writers, for example, Haruki Murakami’s novel Underground touches directly on a terrorist incident in the mid-90s. The anime Terror in Resonance [Zankyo no Teroru] can be considered one of the oeuvres of this category.
Terror in Resonance was all the buzz in 2014 when it was released since fans of Shinichiro Watanabe were awaiting his newest work, after his global success with Cowboy Bepop and Kids on the Slope. Despite its title, Terror in Resonance is not a realistic dive into the affectation of terrorism on Japanese society, but the story of two young men, Nine and Twelve, who threaten to blow up the city of Tokyo.
These boys make up the underground group Sphinx, and are survivors of a secret experiment attempting to create hyper-intelligent human weapons. They fetch Lisa in their terrorist group, a troubled high school girl who inevitably chooses to join them over dying in one of their missions. The trio goes on with their cryptic plan, puzzling the forces of the law with riddles and an opaque motive. Terror of Resonance indulges itself in themes and questions regarding modern Japanese society and the loss of childhood.
This 11-episode anime was acclaimed for its stellar official soundtrack produced by the Japanese composer Yoko Kanno, which was also in charge of the sound for Cowboy Bepop, Cardcaptor Sakura, and Porco Rosso.
On top of that, fans will rush you to admire its visuals, which are breathtaking and vivid with details depicting the Japanese metropole, which was taken care of by Studio MAPPA. Neon Genesis Evangelion buffs are sure to enjoy this, which will keep anyone at the edge of their seats. A thrilling story of grief, justice, and above all, hope.
About the Author:
Mizuki Khoury
Born in Montreal, based in Tokyo. Sabukaru’s senior writer and works as an artist under Exit Number Five.
