Watch DARLING in the FRANXX

DARLING in the FRANXX is a mecha anime series that premiered on Tokyo MX in 2018. The series is set in a dystopian world where a few selected children were chosen to protect humanity from giant monsters named Klaxosaurs. These children are trained as pilots and control mechas called FRANXX, which requires a pair of children to synchronize their minds and bodies in order to operate.

The story follows Hiro, a former prodigy FRANXX pilot who loses his purpose and fails to synchronize with his partners. After a chance encounter with Zero Two, a unique and powerful pilot, Hiro is recruited to join an elite unit called Squad 13. The squad is commanded by Goro, with Ichigo serving as the squad's leader. The other members of the squad are Mitsuru, Kokoro, Futoshi, Zorome, Miku, and Ikuno.

The interpersonal dynamics between the characters is one of the major themes of the show, as each pairing is different and each character has their own backstory and motivations. The relationships between the characters are complex and often turbulent, with jealousy, unrequited love, and betrayal all playing major roles. However, the bonds between the pilots are necessary for the effective operation of the FRANXX, leading to strong emotional connections forming between them.

Throughout the series, the main characters are challenged to overcome their personal demons, fight the Klaxosaurs, and protect humanity. Along the way, they discover hidden truths about the world they live in and the beings they are fighting against, causing them to question whether everything they have been taught is true.

The Klaxosaurs, the main enemies of humanity, are also a major part of the series. They are presented as mysterious, intelligent beings with their own motives and goals. As the series progresses, more information about the Klaxosaurs is revealed, making them more complex and adding to the overall world-building of the show.

Visually, the show is impressive, with the mechas and action sequences being particularly noteworthy. The mechas themselves have a unique design, with the pilots being positioned in a suggestive manner, which has drawn some criticism from certain audiences. However, the design fits with the show's themes of intimacy and partnership. The animation is fluid and dynamic, with the fight scenes being especially exciting.

The music in the show is also noteworthy, with a mix of orchestral and electronic music that fits the tone of the show. The opening themes, “Kiss of Death” and “Torikago” by Mika Nakashima and XX:me, respectively, are both well-liked by fans.

Overall, DARLING in the FRANXX is a complex, action-packed mecha anime with well-developed characters and thought-provoking themes. While the show has been criticized for its sexual innuendos and questionable treatment of female characters, it remains a popular and beloved series among fans of the genre.

DARLING in the FRANXX is a series that ran for 1 seasons (23 episodes) between January 13, 2018 and on Tokyo MX