Anime > Banana Fish!

Introduction

Banana Fish is an anime that stands out from classic action or crime series. Based on the manga of the same name by Akimi Yoshida, originally published in the 80s, the anime adaptation brings the story into modern-day New York of the 2010s. The anime tells a dark, tragic, and gripping story about crime, power struggles, trauma, and deep human bonds.
While the series is packed with gang wars, drug cartels, and political intrigue, its heart lies in the relationship between Ash Lynx, a brilliant young gang leader, and Eiji Okumura, a kind-hearted Japanese photographer. This emotional depth sets Banana Fish apart from other crime anime and makes it an unforgettable experience.

Plot & Setting

The story takes place in New York City, where various mafia groups fight for control over the mysterious substance known as "Banana Fish" – a drug that turns people into mindless puppets. Ash Lynx, a charismatic yet tormented young man forced into a life of crime as a child, sets out to uncover the secret behind "Banana Fish."
When Japanese photographer Eiji Okumura crosses paths with Ash, both are drawn into a whirlwind of violence, power struggles, and life-threatening situations. As Ash confronts his past and battles overwhelming enemies, his relationship with Eiji deepens – a beacon of light amidst the darkness.
Banana Fish presents a harsh, unforgiving world filled with crime, betrayal, and political corruption, yet remains a story of hope, love, and the desire for freedom.

Characters

Ash Lynx – A Brilliant but Broken Fighter
Ash Lynx, whose real name is Aslan Jade Callenreese, is an exceptionally intelligent, highly skilled fighter and charismatic young man who rules the streets of New York. However, beneath his tough exterior lies a broken soul haunted by a tragic past. As a victim of abuse and manipulation, Ash not only fights against external enemies but also battles his inner demons.
His character development in Banana Fish is breathtaking – he starts as a cold-blooded survivor, but in Eiji, he finds someone who doesn’t admire him for his strength or status, but for who he truly is.

Eiji Okumura – The Embodiment of Innocence
Eiji is the complete opposite of Ash. He is naive, warm-hearted, and gentle, coming from Japan with no experience in the brutal world of street crime. Despite his innocence, he becomes a vital support for Ash – and vice versa.
What makes Eiji special is his unwavering trust in Ash. While everyone else either uses or fears him, Eiji sees the real person behind the legend. This relationship is the emotional core of the story.

Dino Golzine – The Ruthless Mafia Boss
Dino Golzine is the main antagonist of the series. He is a powerful mafia boss who once considered Ash his personal property, raising him within the underworld. He is dangerous, manipulative, and sees Ash as his most valuable "possession." His influence extends to the highest political levels, making him an almost unbeatable enemy.

Storytelling & Pacing

The anime wastes no time with long explanations – the story is fast-paced, action-packed, and leaves viewers with little time to breathe. Each episode ends on a cliffhanger, and every new twist raises the stakes even higher.
However, despite all the shootouts, chases, and conspiracies, the true focus of the series lies on the characters and their relationships. Ash and Eiji’s connection gives the story an emotional depth that goes beyond a simple action drama.
Another highlight is the realistic portrayal of its world. There are no supernatural powers or over-the-top anime clichés – everything feels raw, brutal, and real.

Animation & Art Style

Produced by Studio MAPPA, Banana Fish features a modern, sleek art style. The action scenes are particularly impressive, dynamically animated with great attention to detail. The color palette is often dark, reflecting the harsh reality of the story. The body language of the characters, especially Ash and Eiji’s subtle interactions, is masterfully captured, giving the series a unique emotional expression.

Soundtrack & Voice Acting

The soundtrack by Shunichiro Yoshihama perfectly enhances the tense atmosphere of the series. The opening "found & lost" by Survive Said The Prophet is explosive, energetic, and captures the raw intensity of the story.
The ending "Prayer X" by King Gnu, on the other hand, is melancholic and emotional – a perfect reflection of the show’s tragedy.
The voice acting is outstanding. Ash and Eiji’s voice actors convey the complex emotions of their characters convincingly, which is crucial for the many intimate yet painful moments in the series.

Conclusion

An unforgettable thriller with emotional depth and tension that keeps the viewer hooked from episode to episode.

PROS:

✅ Strong characters with deep development
✅ Gripping story with perfectly placed twists
✅ Stunning animation and intense action sequences
✅ Deep emotional bond between Ash and Eiji
✅ Outstanding soundtrack

CONS:
❌ The brutality might be too intense for some viewers
❌ The ending is heartbreaking and even traumatizing for some (but necessary)

Overall Rating: 10/10