Made in Abyss

Content warning for scenes sexualizing children sprinkled throughout the show. The worst one is at the end because it happens right after something really sad happens. The interesting worldbuilding and plot can't redeem this IMO.

The abyss itself is quite interesting, but there's not much here beyond that. Individual layers are rushed through, and despite constant warnings about danger, there's all of one serious incident, making the abyss feel quite tame. Characters are one note and mostly lack arcs. Everything that takes place in the orphanage is boring. Finally, the author has a disturbing interest in children's bodies (the anime thankfully tones this down, but the manga makes it clear). Gross! Dropped.

Very good, interesting story with a unique setting. Will def give some feels, of course, it comes with some uncomfortable suggestive moments considering kids, but they arent particularly graphic or anything, and if you watch anime, you know it comes with the territory, so just ignore it, it doesnt happen often. Definitely worth a watch without a doubt, probably should be considered one of the greats. Enjoy.

Ghibli-esque fantasy adventure with something darker around the edges that eventually blooms into full on horror. The setting itself is the main draw - getting to vicariously explore this ecosystem they've created is really cool and exciting. Hits on an emotional level too when it wants, the last episode is a huge gut punch.

On Hold