Watch Appleseed XIII, Movie 1: Tartaros

Appleseed XIII is a Japanese anime series based on a manga of the same name by Masamune Shirow. The anime has spawned two movies, the first of which is Tartaros. The movie is directed by Takayuki Hamana and produced by Jirō Ishii with animation by Jinnis Animation Studio.

Set in a dystopian future, Appleseed XIII takes place in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. The global population has been decimated by a catastrophic event, leaving only a few scattered cities and settlements. The remaining civilization is under the control of a few powerful figures who seek to consolidate their power and create a new world order.

The main character of the anime is Deunan Knute, a skilled warrior who has survived the apocalypse and is now a member of ESWAT (Extra Special Weapons and Tactics) – an elite police force tasked with maintaining order and combating threats to the remaining civilization. Together with her partner, Briareos Hecatonchires, a former soldier who has been turned into a cyborg, the two must navigate a world filled with danger and uncertainty.

Tartaros is the first movie in the Appleseed XIII series and follows Deunan and Briareos as they are sent on a mission to investigate a terrorist organization known as "Parsifal". This organization has been causing havoc and destruction across the world, and their ultimate goal is the destruction of Olympus – the last remaining city of humanity.

The movie starts with a bang, with Deunan and Briareos launching into a daring rescue mission to save a group of hostages from Parsifal. As they battle their way through the enemy forces, it quickly becomes apparent that there is more to this terrorist organization than meets the eye.

The animation in Tartaros is stunning, with highly detailed character designs and fluid action sequences. The movie is a visual feast from start to finish, with each scene brimming with intricate details and dynamic camera angles.

One of the strengths of the Appleseed XIII series is its world-building. The dystopian future in which the series is set is fleshed out with intricate details and a sense of history that makes the world feel lived-in and real. Tartaros is no exception, with the movie expanding on the world of Appleseed XIII and giving viewers a deeper understanding of the political and social structures that shape this world.

Another aspect of the anime that sets it apart is its portrayal of its female characters. Deunan is a strong and capable character who can hold her own in battle, while also showing vulnerability and emotional depth. The movie also introduces a new character, Dr. Athena Areios, a brilliant scientist who plays a crucial role in the story.

The movie's soundtrack is also noteworthy, with a blend of electronic and orchestral music that adds to the film's futuristic aesthetic. The action scenes are perfectly choreographed to the music, creating a seamless and immersive viewing experience.

Overall, Appleseed XIII: Tartaros is a gripping and visually stunning movie that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With complex characters, intricate world-building, and pulse-pounding action sequences, it is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and anime alike.

Appleseed XIII, Movie 1: Tartaros is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between February 25, 2014 and on FUNimation