Claymore

This anime series is one of the very few in the dark fantasy anime genre that has the potential to break into the mainstream Otaku audience. It already has substantial fan service and I am very surprised at the lack of attention that has plagued this “hidden gem” given the fine quality of artwork, cutting-edge fighting scenes and superb voice acting! Now for a gist of the plot…
A secret organization trains these Claymores and “breeds” them. They are contacted by village elders and are requested for the task of exterminating  demons roaming on the streets in human guises. Possessing the same demonic blood (or should I say 50% of it) running through their veins, Claymores are the only ones who are capable of fighting those yomas. raison d’être.
My take on it:
Very often in alot of anime, I do wish that certain supporting characters in it had a more defined personality that is shaped clearly enough to give the story a realistic feel. Claymore did just that and it truly did not disappoint! The author expanded character development on other Claymore characters such as Ophelia, Deneve, Helen, Miria and Priscilla and gave it a pretty dramatic touch. The emotions, actions and voice-actors of these characters were impeccably coherent throughout the whole series. Combine that together with liberal use of graphic war-torn scenes and battles, the feelings that the author wants to convey in the anime becomes very pristine. The bloodshed in the anime is far from being mindless, it actually gives more depth to the plot by accentuating the somewhat tragic feelings of sadness and loss.

Set in the medieval age, the focus of the story is on a group of blondies who are known as “Claymores”. They are hybrids of demons and humans created for the purpose of slaying Yoma (demons). Not exactly the most novel plot but nonetheless, this anime series did keep me grappling for more after each episode that I had to finish it in spite of the fact that I was having my exams. (Thank goodness I didn’t screw up any of my papers =)

Despite the benevolent actions of the Claymores, humans alienate and discriminate against them for their differences, sometimes even biting the very hand that saved them. Claymores are also perceived by the humans to be an extremely dangerous race, devoid of feelings. Pure mercenaries who do not hesitate to kill or be martyred for their

The story revolves around a Claymore named Clare and a very young lad(Raki) that she saved in a demon-hunting mission. After a demon was discovered in Raki’s house, Clare saved Raki’s life by slaying the demon who took the form of his brother. Much to Raki’s dismay, the success of the mission did not end in fireworks and celebration. Deemed to have links with demons and in the name of protecting the safety of the town, Raki was banished into oblivion and left to die on his own afterwards. The story continues as Clare and Raki develops a deeper relationship through the unique trials and tribulations in the journey of a human and a Claymore.

The author has taken a simple storyline and added brilliance to it by taking a daring approach, incorporating elements of surprise that gave a realistic plot without compromising the action scenes. Although the anime diverged from the manga from episode 20 onwards, the ending wasn’t too shabby.

I should put a note of warning though for people who are easily appalled by graphic violence and cannot stand the slightest sight of blood; this anime might not be for you. Bear in mind that I am no fan of Saw or Texas Chainsaw Massacre. In fact, I hate gory violent movies with cheap plots so much so that I’d rather spend the money buying feeds for my pet goldfish than to watch such a movie in the theatres. However, I managed to get past the bloody facade in Claymore and was enthralled by the most touching moments in Claymore. At the same time, I’m no less amazed by this anime series which went beyond simple themes that are so prevalent in the current world of anime. 

Anime Movie Trailer: