REVIEW: ‘AYAKA,’ Episode 1 — “Why Don’t You Go For A Ride?”

There’s a relative pull to AYAKA Episode 1 that is dampened by one, crucial, element. Despite an immediate hook involving a mystery on an island being engulfed with the embers of a volcano, as community members rush to boats to transport them, the original anime from Studio Blanc is too rigid in the animation thus far to fully engage with viewers. Directed by Nobuyoshi Nagayama, the series premiere demonstrates clear potential and intrigue as we’re introduced to our main characters, and there are some other technical achievements, most notably the music from composer Ryō Tanaka, but the hard lines and stiff movements of the characters will be an ultimate deciding factor for those with different preferences.

Written by GoRA, the series follows Yukito (Yūto Uemura), an orphan who has been living in foster care since early childhood following the death of his father. As he readies himself to graduate middle school, he receives a letter from a man claiming to have been a friend of his father’s who tells him it was his father’s wish for him to return to his birthplace, the Ayakajima islands. Escorted by disciples of his father, Jingi (Takuma Terashima), who we first meet in the flashback as he helps guide Yukito to safety, “Why Don’t You Go For a Ride” establishes the world in which Yukito is returning to.

While the relationship between Yukito and Jingi will be interesting to explore further as the former becomes more accustomed to the latter’s eccentric behavior — especially as they were once as close as brothers — the main pull of the series so far is the islands. From trains that glide over water (an image that can’t help but recall Spirited Away) and mysterious beings called “Mitama” which can either be harmless or threats that require purification from “Ley Masters,” these fantasy elements elevate what otherwise could be a rather rote story.

Based on what’s shown in AYAKA Episode 1, the islands themselves will be a major plot device for the show, especially as we get glimpses of Yukito’s father’s other two disciples in the closing moments. One resides in a study with other students as the other seemingly is out hunting/purifying would-be threats. As ley masters, those who strike a balance between yin and yang in order to maintain harmony on the island, it will be interesting to see their differing approaches, especially when it comes to teaching Yukito.

Unfortunately, along with the animation, Yukito is the other main drawback of the series thus far, largely due to the writing. It takes a gavel to the head to make sure we’re aware that his main personality trait so far is that he doesn’t like to get close to people. He announces it himself through internal dialogue in the opening, as he’s the latest accused of it by Jingi. He explains why, telling Jingi he decided it was safer to remove himself from potential relationships for fear of hurting someone. His own powers inherited from his father are seemingly triggered by heightened emotions. Jingi is quick to dismiss these thoughts though in one of the better character beats of the episode, telling him that there are plenty of adults around him who are able to handle a little childish outburst. So, to help himself grow, he should just wear his heart on his sleeves.

Despite initial drawbacks and disinterest in the overall character animation style, there’s enough to warrant follow-up. While the character designs are lacking and their motion muted, the landscapes and background animation is allowed greater detail and lush colors. The music from Tanaka embodies a traditional soundscape including the usage of instrumentation such as an erhu that helps build a greater, spiritual sense of the world. The production might be clumsy, but there are pieces of brilliance that need to be brought further into the spotlight.

AYAKA Episode 1 is a lore-heavy introduction that lacks in engaging visuals and kinetic combat, despite the action-driven premise. That said, there’s enough worthy of praise that the weaker elements don’t draw too much focus. While it may not be the strongest premiere of the summer season, the mystical aspects and worldbuilding make it a worthy addition to a “to-watch” list.

AYAKA Season 1 is available now on Crunchyroll.