Ergo Proxy (エルゴプラキシー (Erugo Purakushī Ergo Proxy?)) is a Japanese anime television series produced by Manglobe, directed by Shukō Murase, and written by Dai Satō. It aired on WOWOW from February 25 to August 12, 2006, and consists of 23 episodes. The series combines elements of cyberpunk, psychological thriller, and mystery genres and is known for its complex narrative and philosophical themes.
Plot[]
In a dystopian future where Earth has been ravaged by ecological disaster, humanity survives within domed cities. The story is set in Romdo, a utopian city under strict control, where humans coexist with androids called "AutoReivs." The equilibrium is disrupted when a series of murders coincides with the emergence of a virus called the "Cogito Virus," which grants self-awareness to AutoReivs.
Re-l Mayer, an inspector from the Intelligence Bureau, begins investigating the murders and uncovers a conspiracy involving mysterious beings called "Proxies." Alongside Vincent Law, an immigrant with a hidden past, and Pino, a self-aware AutoReiv, Re-l embarks on a journey that unravels the secrets of the Proxies, the true nature of their world, and humanity’s ultimate fate.
Characters[]
- Re-l Mayer (リル・メイヤー Riru Meiyā?)
- The protagonist, a pragmatic and determined inspector from Romdo’s Intelligence Bureau. Re-l becomes deeply involved in the Proxy mystery and begins questioning the foundations of her society.
- Vincent Law (ヴィンセント・ロー Vinsento Rō?)
- An immigrant and AutoReiv disposal worker. Vincent is pursued as a suspect in the murders and later discovers his connection to the Proxies.
- Pino (ピノ Pino?)
- A self-aware child-like AutoReiv infected by the Cogito Virus. Pino accompanies Re-l and Vincent, offering moments of levity and insight.
- Raul Creed (ラウル・クリード Rauru Kurīdo?)
- The head of Romdo’s Security Bureau. Raul becomes obsessed with maintaining control and protecting the city’s stability, even as his personal life deteriorates.
Production[]
Ergo Proxy was conceived as a dark, philosophical exploration of humanity and existence. Director Shukō Murase and writer Dai Satō collaborated to create a series that blends science fiction with existential themes. The animation was produced by Manglobe, known for its distinctive visual style.
The series features music composed by Yoshihiro Ike, with its opening theme, "Kiri," performed by Monoral, and its ending theme, "Paranoid Android," by Radiohead.
Themes and Style[]
Ergo Proxy explores themes such as identity, consciousness, and the nature of humanity. It incorporates references to philosophy, psychology, and literature, drawing on works by Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Arthur Schopenhauer. The series’ art style is dark and atmospheric, reflecting its cyberpunk aesthetic.
Media[]
Anime[]
The series aired from February 25 to August 12, 2006, on WOWOW, spanning 23 episodes. It has since been licensed for international distribution by Funimation and is available on various streaming platforms.
Home Media[]
Ergo Proxy has been released on DVD and Blu-ray, featuring high-definition remasters and special features such as commentary tracks and behind-the-scenes documentaries.
Manga[]
A manga adaptation was serialized in Monthly Sunday Gene-X, providing additional context and expanding on the series’ narrative.
Reception[]
Ergo Proxy received critical acclaim for its ambitious storytelling, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes. While some viewers found its narrative challenging to follow, the series is celebrated as a cult classic within the cyberpunk and psychological thriller genres.
References[]
External Links[]
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