It might be premature to judge definitively, but The Beginning After The End is already becoming a contender for one of the year’s most disappointing anime releases. Originally created by TurtleMe, this manhwa was anticipated to make a significant impact, especially with plans for an anime adaptation by a smaller studio. Unfortunately, the adaptation has been criticized for failing to do justice to the rich world and character depth it represents.
Debuting around the same time as Solo Leveling, The Beginning After The End quickly established itself as a formidable rival, at times even surpassing the popularity of Jinwoo’s narrative. The story centers on King Grey, a once-tyrannical figure who is reincarnated as an infant, allowing him to explore the gaps of his previous life. His journey unfolds as he seeks to master magic, discover his new world, and experience what it truly means to have caring loved ones around him.
Animation Quality of The Beginning After The End: An Unsatisfactory Outcome
Art Style and Voiceover: A Bright Spot in an Otherwise Lackluster Presentation
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On the surface, The Beginning After The End offers eye-catching art, primarily showcased through its promotional materials. The visual design is vibrant and engaging, adopting a simplified aesthetic that, while appealing, lacks the intricate rendering fans are accustomed to from the source material. This clean style provides a refreshing contrast to other isekai series, allowing the narrative to shine through.
Additionally, the voice acting enhances the experience, particularly with King Grey’s deep and resonant tones articulating his frustrations during moments of vulnerability, such as being cared for as an infant. This juxtaposition effectively showcases the contrast between his former life and his current state, capturing the essence of the character, despite shortcomings in the overall animation.
However, the adaptation stumbles grimly where it counts the most: in its animation quality. Viewers have noted that much of the series is composed of static images with overt visual effects, failing to animate the story’s dynamic moments. Comparatively, shows like Mushoku Tensei, featuring fluid character movements and engaging camera work, highlight the shortcomings of TBATE’s approach.
A Highly Anticipated Isekai That Deserved More Attention
Potential for Successful Manhwa Adaptations
During IGN’s Fan Fest, the first glimpses of The Beginning After The End raised alarm bells among dedicated fans. Concerns about the animation quality emerged early, leading to jokes about the potentially subpar CGI used for creatures and environments within the series. Sadly, each subsequent episode only amplified these worries, prompting discussions about the possibility of a studio overhaul.
In response to the outcry, TurtleMe addressed fans’ frustrations, explaining his choice of a smaller studio, A-Cat, aimed at retaining creative control. While he has encouraged his audience to support the ongoing adaptation, the need for higher standards remains evident.
The success of adaptations like Solo Leveling proves that good collaborations can lead to tremendous achievements in storytelling and animation. Not only did Solo Leveling capture the hearts of existing fans, but it also expanded into a new audience, resulting in greenlighting numerous additional adaptations. This exemplifies what can go right when a manhwa receives the appropriate treatment.
Collaboration between creators and studios can yield rewarding results, as seen with Solo Leveling’s adaptation. Chugong’s partnership with A-1 Pictures ensured a faithful rendition of the source material while enhancing the narrative experience. Similar dedication is evident in upcoming adaptations, like the live-action One Piece, which aims to respect the source while creatively restructuring its narrative.
What Lies Ahead for The Beginning After The End?
Fans Prepare for a Deflating First Season
With 24 episodes already confirmed, including a first cour of 12 episodes, fans are hopeful that studio A-Cat will respond constructively to the feedback it has received. This initial reception has shown that there is a vast audience eager for engaging animation driven by the popular source material.
Though the series may have started on shaky ground, the narrative holds significant potential, especially as the story gains momentum. With talented voice actors contributing to the portrayal of beloved characters like Arthur, Tessia, and King Grey, there remains a foundation for success. The essential elements for triumph are at hand; all that is needed is time and dedication to realize the adaptation’s full potential.