Vinland Saga MAL Review

 If you've ever seen Karneval and Avatar the Last Airbender... 

Thorfinn (the protagonist) is like a perfect combination of both Gareki and Zuko. Extremely traumatizing past, leading to a lot of *unresolved* emotional angst and insane fighting skills. He has so much potential, and it's because of this, I really liked the story, but thought it could've been better. His character depth doesn't develop or transform the way Zuko's does, which is disappointing. 

Overall:

Would recommend Episode 1 - 11

Episode 12 and onwards is optional - it's addictive to watch, and the political / action elements keep you in suspense. But the emotional depth of characters, while touched on, still wasn't enough for me, and Thorfinn's original goals (like family) are quickly lost in the scuffle of other character plots (Canute's, Askeladd's).

Long version: Thoughts in bullet points, no particular order:

- Lots of characters with gray morales (e.g. Askeladd), constantly makes the viewer question life and ethics

- Not sure how to feel about Askeladd, but I guess on some level, deeply sad. As an optimist, I really wanted him to be a 'does questionable things but actually a good guy', and we did see some parts with that. But every time I was beginning to think 'hey, he's not so bad,' he would go and do something inhumane / psychopathic. 

- Not sure who needs therapy more. Almost everyone in this show does, but I feel Askeladd has a tie with Thorfinn. He doesn't need to provoke the kid daily, and Thorfinn shouldn't react so predictably after being baited... and yet they both get triggered over family insults. It's pot calling the kettle black, and in some ways, I think they are more like father and son. 

- It's probably because of their dynamic, that I wish Thorfinn could've improved their relationship. I don't think he would ever admit it, but he cares about Askeladd very much, and the ending confirms it. This guy has given him meaning to life, even if it was a little misplaced. If Askeladd let Thorfinn win a duel once, and Thorfinn forgave Askleadd, I imagine Askeladd as a great mentor, who would likely also train Thorfinn to be a skilled warrior. Thorkell could've also been a fantastic mentor.

- Very, very disappointed that they did not reveal Floki's betryal and responsibility to Thorfinn... I think that would've changed things dramatically. Was also hoping that Thorkell would hear about the betrayal, murder, etc., and that SOMEHOW, Thorfinn could still have a good life as the grandchild to the prestigious Jomsviking family. I could see it happening, and indeed, wanted good things for Thorfinn. It's in this same vein that I'm disappointed that Thorfinn remains a growing, angsty teen, rather than a legendary warrior to live on his father's legacy... or even start his own. It didn't happen, at least not in this season.

- Too much philosophical dialogue with any part involving Canute, and even worse, his alcoholic monk. Skipped over most of it and didn't miss anything. 

- Felt that the story began to revolve more around Canute, vs. Thorfinn in the second half of the show. Canute is cool and all, but again, I was watching for Thorfinn and waiting for his legacy to start. The historical drama context is great (And I ended up reading a little outside of the anime), but, again, it wasn't what I signed up for. 

- Pacing was pretty good, episode 1 - 12. Excellent music as well. 

- Art style was kind of like 'Attack on Titan,' but easier on the eyes. Environmental and background design were also fantastic. 

- Ending: What did I just watch? I was going to give the series a 9/10, but after the abrupt ending that didn't really make any sense, I'm going to have to lower it to an 8. That was one of the worst wrap up / transitions I've ever seen. 


The original review on MAL: View here

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