GANGSTA.

About GANGSTA.

GANGSTA. is a noteworthy Japanese anime series produced by studio Manglobe, based on the manga of the same name by Kosuke. Released in 2015, this action-noir series boasts compelling characters, gritty storylines, and moody aesthetics. The plot revolves around two "Handymen" in Ergastalum, a city plagued by crime, violence, and drugs. They provide odd jobs to both the local police and the mafia, dealing with things that wouldn't normally be handled. Their lives get exponentially complicated after they meet an ex-prostitute who asks for their help.

Making / Production

The series was creatively visualized by studio Manglobe known for their iconic works such as Samurai Champloo and The World God Only Knows. The direction was handled by Shūkō Murase who is well-known for his unique style in storytelling and animation.

Actors

• Junichi Suwabe voices the character Worick Arcangelo: Suwabe brilliantly portrays Worick's multi-layered personality from a jovial, laidback individual to a somber character with a tragic past.
• Kenjiro Tsuda provides the voice for Nicolas Brown: Tsuda brings a depth to Nicolas's character, a deaf man with lethal combat skills and emotionally withdrawn nature.
• Mamiko Noto voices Alex Benedetto, the ex-prostitute with a traumatic past. Noto immerses herself into Alex's character, providing the right amount of vulnerability and strength she carries throughout the series.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series appears to be set in a gritty version of a modern European city, but the exact location is never revealed.
• The series is notable for its realistic portrayal of Nicolas's deafness and how he communicates with sign language.
• Much of the series pays homage to Quentin Tarantino's films and classic pulp crime noir genres.

Music and Soundtrack

• 'Renegade' by Stereo Dive Foundation: An energetic and dramatic opening theme that sets the tone for the dire situations of the characters.
• 'Yoru no Kuni' by Annabel: This is the closing theme of the series, which is equally haunting and beautiful in setting up the atmosphere.

Quotes

• "The more twisted you are, the more you become entwined in a cursed and fatal chain." - Nicolas Brown
• "I don't think there are any kind people in this city. Just people who'd seem that way." - Worick Arcangelo