What is it: Armitage III
Armitage III is a cyberpunk anime series set in a dystopian future where humanity has colonized Mars. The story revolves around Naomi Armitage, a third-generation android police officer, and her partner Ross Sylibus, a human detective transferred from Earth. The plot begins with the investigation of a series of murders involving androids known as "Thirds," who are nearly indistinguishable from humans. Armitage III is notable for its exploration of themes such as identity, humanity, and the ethics of artificial intelligence. The series combines elements of action, mystery, and drama, creating a compelling narrative that appeals to both science fiction and anime fans.
The Armitage III series was originally released as a four-episode OVA (Original Video Animation) series in 1995. It was later adapted into a film titled "Armitage III: Poly-Matrix," which re-edited the OVA episodes with some additional scenes. In 2002, a sequel titled "Armitage: Dual-Matrix" was released, continuing the story of Naomi Armitage and Ross Sylibus. The series is known for its high-quality animation for the time, as well as its impactful soundtrack, which complements the narrative's dark, futuristic atmosphere. Armitage III also stands out for its character and setting designs, which accurately reflect the cyberpunk aesthetic.
Naomi Armitage, the protagonist, is a complex character who struggles with issues of identity and acceptance. As a third-generation android, she possesses human emotions and feelings, which makes her unique compared to other androids. Her partnership with Ross Sylibus, a human detective who initially distrusts her, evolves throughout the series, exploring themes of trust and camaraderie. Ross, meanwhile, has his own traumatic past, including the loss of his wife in an android attack. The dynamic between the two main characters is one of the series' strengths, providing emotional depth and character development.
Armitage III's setting on Mars adds an extra layer of complexity to the narrative. The planet is portrayed as a place of opportunity and danger, where the coexistence between humans and androids is tense. The colonization of Mars is a recurring theme in science fiction, and Armitage III addresses this uniquely, exploring the social and political implications of such an endeavor. The series also raises questions about android rights and what it means to be human, themes that are increasingly relevant as technology advances in the real world. The depiction of Mars in Armitage III is rich in detail, with futuristic cityscapes and industrial environments that contribute to the cyberpunk atmosphere.
Beyond its compelling narrative, Armitage III is known for its influence on the cyberpunk genre and pop culture in general. The series inspired other science fiction and anime works, helping to popularize the cyberpunk subgenre in Japan and the West. The visual aesthetic of Armitage III, with its use of neon, shadows, and advanced technology, is a classic example of the cyberpunk style. The series also addresses philosophical and ethical issues that continue to be debated today, such as the nature of consciousness and the rights of artificial beings. The influence of Armitage III can be seen in various other media, including films, games, and literature.
Armitage III also had a significant impact on the anime industry, helping to establish standards for the production of OVAs and anime films. The series was one of the first anime to be widely distributed outside of Japan, contributing to its growing popularity internationally. The English dub of Armitage III, which featured renowned actors, helped make the series accessible to a wider audience. Critical reception for Armitage III was generally positive, with praise for its animation, soundtrack, and narrative. The series remains a landmark in the cyberpunk genre and an example of how anime can explore complex and relevant themes.
