Should You Watch Death Note 2017 - A Love-Hate Journey

The anime Death Note 2017 has been a topic of much debate since its release. Some fans are torn between its originality and its deviation from the source material, while others are enthusiastic supporters of the adaptation. This article aims to explore whether watching Death Note 2017 is worth the time and effort based on the unique elements and critical reception.

The Original Series and Its Impact

Death Note is a psychological thriller anime series that captivated millions of viewers with its mind-bending plot and its exploration of themes such as justice, morality, and the human condition. The high school student Light Yagami discovers a mysterious notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it, leading to a thrilling battle of wits and intellect between Light and Detective L. This show has influenced countless fans and continues to be a landmark in the anime industry.

The Film's Reception and Criticism

The 2017 live-action adaptation of Death Note has received mixed reviews from both fans and critics. While it was highly anticipated, the film has been criticized for several reasons:

Blasphemy to the Manga and Anime: Many fans believe that the film is an outright blasphemy to the source material. It is described as barely worthy to be called a movie, with a rating of 1 out of 10 on IMDb. Deviation from the Source Material: The film deviates significantly from its anime counterpart, with alterations to the plot and characters. Poor Characterization: Some viewers argue that the film fails to capture the essence of Light Yagami and L, key characters whose development in the anime was vital to the story. Ignoring Plot Rules: The film also ignores many rules of the notebook and simplifies several aspects of the plot that were central to the original series.

Pros and Cons of Watching Death Note 2017

While the 2017 adaptation may not be what hardcore fans had in mind, it still has its merits. Here are the pros and cons:

Pros

Unique and Thrilling: Despite the criticisms, the film still offers a unique viewing experience with mind-bending plot twists and intense battles of wits. Great Main Characters: Light Yagami and L are developed as compelling antagonists and protagonists, respectively. Character Development: Light Yagami's journey from a genius high school student to a murderer with a complex is captivating to watch. Confirmation Bias: As an adaptation that exists in a world created by the source material, it's enjoyable for fans looking for a fresh take on familiar elements.

Cons

Diversion from the Source Material: The film's significant deviation from the source material may disappoint loyal fans. Reduced Intellectual Battle: Compared to the anime, the film has fewer intellectual battles, focusing more on action and suspense. Poor Character Transposition: The film fails to capture the essence of the characters, especially during key moments and interactions.

Conclusion

Whether you decide to watch Death Note 2017 or not largely depends on your personal preferences and how you view adaptations versus original productions. If you're a fan of the original anime and are willing to overlook the differences, you might find the film intriguing. However, if you're looking for a true representation of the source material, you might want to stick to the anime series.

Final Verdict: Yes, you should watch Death Note 2017 if you're interested in a different take on the story and willing to enjoy a thrilling psychological thriller. However, be prepared for some alterations and departures from the original plot and characters.