What is it: Figure 17
Figure 17 is an anime blending elements of science fiction, drama, and slice-of-life, created by Genco and OLM, Inc. Released in 2001, the 13-episode series stands out for its unique and emotionally engaging approach. The plot revolves around Tsubasa Shiina, a shy and introverted young woman who moves to Hokkaido with her father after her mother's death. One night, Tsubasa witnesses a spaceship crash and finds a mysterious capsule containing a girl identical to her, named Hikaru. From this encounter, Tsubasa's life changes drastically, as Hikaru is actually an alien bioweapon called Figure 17, designed to combat an extraterrestrial threat.
The Figure 17 series is notable for its slower pace and focus on character development, in contrast to many action anime that prioritize battles and fight scenes. Each episode is approximately 45 minutes long, allowing for a deeper exploration of the characters' emotions and relationships. Tsubasa and Hikaru develop a strong bond, almost like sisters, and Hikaru's presence helps Tsubasa gain confidence and openness to new experiences. The duality between Tsubasa's everyday life and the battles against the aliens creates a rich, multifaceted narrative that appeals to both drama and science fiction fans.
An interesting aspect of Figure 17 is how it addresses themes such as friendship, identity, and overcoming trauma. Tsubasa, initially an insecure and lonely girl, finds in Hikaru not only an ally in the fight against the aliens, but also a friend who helps her face her fears and grow as a person. The relationship between the two is central to the series and is developed with a sensitivity rare in anime of this genre. Furthermore, the series explores the idea of identity, as Hikaru, as a bio-weapon, also seeks to understand her place in the world and her relationship with Tsubasa.
Figure 17's animation is another strong point of the series. Produced by OLM, Inc., the animation quality is high, with attention to detail in both action scenes and everyday scenes. The battles are well-choreographed and thrilling, while the quieter scenes capture the beauty of the Hokkaido landscape and Tsubasa's school life. The soundtrack, composed by Toshihiko Sahashi, perfectly complements the series' tone, ranging from moving battle music to soft melodies for more introspective moments.
Figure 17 also stands out for its innovative approach to the episodic format. With episodes longer than the standard 20-25 minutes, the series has the freedom to develop its plots and characters more fully. This allows viewers to become more deeply involved with the story and characters, creating a more rewarding viewing experience. The series has been well-received both in Japan and internationally, earning praise for its originality and emotional depth.
In short, Figure 17 is an anime that offers a unique and emotionally rich experience. With its blend of drama, science fiction, and slice-of-life, the series addresses universal themes of friendship, identity, and overcoming trauma in a way that resonates with viewers. The high-quality animation, engaging soundtrack, and innovative episode format contribute to making Figure 17 a memorable series worthy of discovery for new anime fans.
