Watch Pacific Rim: The Black

Pacific Rim: The Black is an anime series that premiered on Netflix in 2021. It is set in a dystopian future where the world has been overrun by monstrous creatures known as Kaiju, causing humanity to retreat into various walled cities for safety. The story follows two siblings, Taylor and Haley Travis, who are left behind when their parents abandon them to search for help. They are forced to fend for themselves in a hostile world ravaged by the Kaiju.

The show's main protagonist is Taylor, a young man who grew up training to become a Jaeger pilot but never got the chance. He is determined to protect his younger sister Haley at all costs, and this loyalty to family is a recurring theme throughout the show. Taylor is voiced by Gideon Adlon, who brings a sense of emotional depth and vulnerability to the character.

Haley, the younger sibling, is initially portrayed as a vulnerable and scared young girl. However, as the series progresses, she proves herself to be surprisingly resourceful and resilient. Actress Erica Lindbeck does an excellent job with Haley's voice acting, bringing a sense of innocence and determination to the character.

Along the way, the siblings encounter several other survivors, including a former Jaeger pilot named Shane and a young scavenger named Mei. Calum Worthy voices Shane, who is initially standoffish towards the siblings but eventually becomes a mentor figure to them. Mei, voiced by Victoria Grace, is a street-smart survivor who is full of surprises.

Pacific Rim: The Black does an excellent job of world-building, creating a sense of desolation and danger that permeates every episode. The show's animation is top-notch, with seamless blending of traditional animation and CGI. The range of designs for the Kaiju is impressive, with each one having a unique look and abilities.

The series is also a great example of strong character development. Each of the main characters goes through growth and change throughout the series, with some surprising shifts in alliances and motivations. The show is not afraid to tackle heavy themes such as abandonment, loss, and betrayal, and it does so with a deft touch.

One of the most significant strengths of the series is its pacing. Every episode leaves you wanting more, with well-placed cliffhangers that keep you invested in the story. It is not just a mindless action show but also manages to touch on important character moments and world-building.

Overall, Pacific Rim: The Black is an excellent addition to the Pacific Rim franchise. It manages to capture the spirit of the movies while expanding on the world they created. The characters are well-developed, and the animation is gorgeous. It is a fantastic example of how good storytelling can transcend mediums, and it is well worth a watch.

Pacific Rim: The Black is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (14 episodes). The series first aired on March 4, 2021.