ANIME REVIEW: The Eminence in Shadow Season 1 (Spoiler)

The highly-anticipated second season of “The Eminence in Shadow” has just started, and, being the genius that I am, I figured a late review of the first season was needed for the low-hanging fruit clicks. Just kidding… Or maybe not. But in all seriousness, this is one of those series that deserves even a late review, considering how it manages to avoid the stigma of being “just another Isekai anime.”

Back in October 2022, “The Eminence in Shadow” became the latest addition to the ever-expanding world of Isekai anime, bringing with it a fresh twist to the genre. While it didn’t reinvent the wheel, it offered an entertaining and amusing take on the Isekai formula.

At its core, the story follows Cid Kagenou, a protagonist who’s mastered the art of being a hidden hero in the real world. But, as fate would have it, he’s isekai’d into the kingdom of Midgar, a place teeming with magic. There, he fully embraces his destiny – to become the ultimate Eminence in Shadow.

Let’s talk Isekai. It’s no secret that this genre has flooded the anime scene in recent years, and it often sticks to a formula – overpowered protagonists, romantic entanglements, and a plot that sometimes takes a backseat to power fantasies. “The Eminence in Shadow” doesn’t shy away from these tropes, but it manages to play with them in a delightful way.

Our hero Cid may be caught up in his own power trip, but it’s all part of the charm. The story unfolds as if it’s a playful skit among friends, and it’s a nod to the genre’s avid fans.

Now, onto the animation and fight scenes. While it won’t win awards for animation quality, it knows when to invest in those action sequences. The fights are well-executed, and the magical elements are visually appealing. Surprisingly, this manga adaptation doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is a refreshing change of pace.

As for the characters, they fit into familiar harem/adventure archetypes – the brainy one, the half-animal companion, the klutz, the tsundere, and yes, even a yandere sister character. While they may seem clichéd, they each have their own unique charm, especially when they’re part of Cid’s delusional entourage.

The comedy in “The Eminence in Shadow” is reminiscent of classic Greek comedies, where the audience knows the truth while the characters remain blissfully unaware. It’s a humorous exploration of the gap between perception and reality.

Season 1 wraps up with a tournament arc – a staple in many anime series. Iris Midgar and Beatrix face off against Cid, but it’s safe to say that things don’t go according to their plans. There’s also some intriguing exposition for future arcs, and the introduction of new characters keeps the story engaging.

In summary, “The Eminence in Shadow” offers an enjoyable and genuine viewing experience. Its comedy is a standout feature, and Cid’s character development is a journey worth following. While it doesn’t break new ground in the Isekai genre, it brings its own unique flavor to the table. So, if you’re in the mood for some chūnibyō madness and a good laugh, give it a watch.