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Introduction
“Divine Gate” is a beautiful series that drags the viewer into different feelings and emotions. Based on the mobile game of the same name by Studio Pierrot, this 2016 anime adaptation explores the conflict between fate, freedom, and the desire for salvation. Featuring a rich cast of characters, each carrying their own emotional burden and struggle, The Holy Gate explores the mystery surrounding the Holy Gate, a legendary portal that grants thought and alters reality. The film combines interesting themes, beautiful battles, and a deep sense of suspense, resulting in both emotional and visual beauty.
Story
The story is set in a world where heaven, the underworld, and the human world coexist, with the Divine Gate said to be the end of the gate. When the gate appears, it causes confusion because it has the opportunity to rewrite the world and change one’s destiny. Those who can reach the Divine Gate will be given the opportunity to change their destiny, but doing so will lead to unforeseen consequences.
The main character, Aoto, is a quiet and reserved boy who has the power to control water. Haunted by a painful past, he isolates himself from others, believing that finding a Divine Gate will provide him with answers and salvation. Alongside Aoto are two students named Akane and Midori, who possess significant abilities such as fire and wind. And each of them has been drawn to the Gate for a personal reason that will change their lives.
Our organization is affiliated with an organization called the World Council, which oversees the travel and training of those with special abilities. Together, they set out to find the Sacred Gate and uncover its mysteries, while battling the forces that seek to control or destroy it. Along the way, they will have to confront not only external enemies, but also the inner demons that haunt them.
Main Characters
- Aoto: The stoic and emotionally burdened protagonist, Aoto wields water-based abilities. He is plagued by memories of a tragedy involving his family, which has left him disconnected from those around him. Aoto’s journey is one of emotional healing as he seeks answers about his past and tries to come to terms with his role in the world.
- Akane: A spirited and passionate boy who controls fire, Akane serves as a contrast to Aoto’s detached demeanor. Driven by a desire to prove himself and protect those he cares about, Akane struggles with his own feelings of inadequacy and a past shaped by family expectations.
- Midori: Wielding the power of wind, Midori is a kind and empathetic girl who dreams of making the world a better place. Her motivation for reaching the Divine Gate stems from a desire to heal someone important to her, but her optimism is often challenged by the harsh realities of their journey.
- Arthur: The leader of the World Council, Arthur is a charismatic figure who has his own reasons for seeking the Divine Gate. His role in the story adds complexity, as he navigates between the responsibilities of leadership and the personal desires that push him toward the Gate.
- Odin and Loki: Representing the gods of the underworld and heaven, Odin and Loki are two of the supernatural forces that intervene in the characters’ quest for the Gate. Their involvement raises questions about divine will, manipulation, and the true nature of power.
Themes
- Fate vs. Free Will: One of the core themes in “Divine Gate” is the struggle between fate and free will. The Divine Gate itself symbolizes the ultimate test of this dichotomy—whether individuals are bound by their destiny or have the power to change it. The characters grapple with the consequences of trying to rewrite their own stories, leading to questions about what price they are willing to pay for freedom.
- Personal Redemption: The emotional journeys of the main characters are centered around themes of redemption and forgiveness. Aoto, in particular, seeks to make peace with his past, hoping the Divine Gate will give him the answers he needs. The series explores how individuals deal with trauma, guilt, and the search for personal meaning.
- Moral Ambiguity: “Divine Gate” presents a world where right and wrong are often blurred. Characters on both sides of the conflict—the World Council, the gods, and those seeking the Gate—have their own motivations and justifications for their actions. This moral complexity adds depth to the series, as viewers are left to question who is truly in the right.
- The Human Condition: At its heart, “Divine Gate” is a philosophical exploration of the human condition. The series examines the desires that drive people—whether it’s love, power, or redemption—and the consequences of achieving those desires. The journey to the Gate becomes symbolic of the search for meaning in an often chaotic and unpredictable world.
Visuals and Animation
- Art Style: “Divine Gate” boasts a sleek, futuristic art style that fits its blend of fantasy and sci-fi elements. The settings are colorful and diverse, from the cold, sterile environments of the World Council to the more vibrant, chaotic realms where supernatural battles take place.
- Character Design: Each character is designed to reflect their elemental powers, with Aoto’s cool blue tones contrasting Akane’s fiery reds and Midori’s windy greens. The visual symbolism adds another layer to their personalities and struggles, making the characters’ appearances integral to the narrative.
- Animation Quality: While the animation quality is generally solid, it shines most during the action sequences. The elemental powers are displayed in dynamic and visually appealing ways, with fluid choreography that adds excitement to the battles.
Sound and Music
- Soundtrack: The soundtrack of “Divine Gate” complements the series’ atmospheric and introspective tone. Composed by Takumi Ozawa, the music is both moody and dramatic, perfectly matching the series’ emotional depth and supernatural intrigue.
- Opening and Ending Themes: The opening theme, “One Me Two Hearts” by Hitorie, sets the tone for the series with its fast-paced, rock-inspired melody. The ending theme, “Contrast” by vistlip, offers a more reflective sound, encapsulating the series’ somber and introspective themes.
- Voice Acting: The voice cast does an excellent job of bringing the emotionally complex characters to life. Soma Saito (Aoto), Yuuichi Nakamura (Akane), and Aoi Yuuki (Midori) deliver strong performances, effectively conveying the inner turmoil and growth their characters undergo.
Background information
- Creator and Studio: “Divine Gate” is a mobile game developed by GungHo Online Entertainment. The anime adaptation was created by Studio Pierrot, known for popular series such as Naruto and Tokyo Ghoul.
- Release Date: The animation was released in January 2016 and is 12 minutes long.
- Highlights: The animation takes the plot of the mobile game and expands the story and character history. However, due to the fewer cutscenes, the game has more action, resulting in a faster story pace.
Reviews
Divine Gate is an ambitious series that examines complex philosophical themes through the lens of fantasy and action. While the story may feel rushed at times due to the complexity of the plot, the characters’ emotional depth and compelling quest for destiny and freedom make it a compelling introduction to dark and soulful anime.
“The Force” is strongest in the emotional journeys of its characters. Aoto’s struggles with guilt and loneliness, Akane’s desire to protect others, and Midori’s thoughts resonate with each other as she struggles with her own pain. However, moving too quickly can make the audience want to spend more time exploring the rich story and deeper aspects of the world.
Visually, the system provided excellent animation during shooting, although it may not always maintain the highest quality output. The soundtrack, voice acting, and philosophical underpinnings enhance the viewing experience and make Divine Gate more than just a fantasy game.
