Attack on Titan: No Regrets

Attack on Titan: No Regrets plunges viewers into the gritty, shadowed depths of the Underground city, a subterranean labyrinth where sunlight is a forgotten luxury and survival is a daily battle. This compelling two-episode OVA serves as a pivotal prequel to the globally acclaimed Attack on Titan series, meticulously crafted by Production I.G. and initially unveiled in December 2014. At its heart lies the enigmatic origin story of Levi Ackermann, the future "humanity's strongest soldier," whose legendary combat prowess and unyielding resolve are yet to be forged. Here, Levi is a cunning street rogue, leading a small but fiercely loyal crew including the pragmatic Farlan Church and the spirited Isabel Magnolia. Their existence is a constant hustle, utilizing ODM gear not against Titans, but for petty thievery and daring escapes within the city's underbelly. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when their paths violently intersect with Erwin Smith, a formidable and ambitious commander from the Survey Corps, whose piercing gaze sees beyond Levi's criminal facade. Erwin presents them with an impossible choice: face the Military Police for their transgressions or join the Survey Corps, embarking on a suicide mission into the Titan-infested world above. This fateful encounter is the crucible in which Levi's character is forged, transforming him from a reluctant outlaw into a dedicated Scout driven by a new, profound purpose. The OVA brilliantly explores the nascent, often tense, ideological clashes and burgeoning mutual respect between Levi and Erwin, laying the foundational stones for their iconic partnership in the main series. Through breathtakingly choreographed action sequences, heightened dramatic tension, and raw emotional depth, No Regrets not only unveils the dark, forgotten corners of humanity's struggle but also offers a potent exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of freedom in a world teetering on the brink of annihilation. It’s an indispensable watch for devoted fans and an enthralling entry point for newcomers drawn to dark fantasy and intricate character sagas.

Attack on Titan: No Regrets stands as a masterclass in prequel storytelling, offering a profound and emotionally charged journey into the formative years of one of anime's most iconic characters. Production I.G.'s animation is nothing short of superb, vividly rendering the oppressive gloom of the Underground city with its intricate architecture and the visceral, dynamic chaos of the initial battles against the Titans. The character designs are faithful yet nuanced, allowing the animators to convey a wide range of emotions through subtle facial expressions and powerful body language, particularly in Levi’s evolution. Voice acting, both in Japanese and English, is exceptional; Hikaru Midorikawa and Matthew Mercer imbue Levi with a compelling blend of stoicism and simmering rage, while the supporting cast, especially for Farlan and Isabel, delivers performances that are both heartfelt and tragically impactful, making their brief but significant presence truly memorable. The story pacing is meticulously handled, building tension effectively from the underground skirmishes to the harrowing expeditions above ground. Every scene feels purposeful, contributing to the overarching narrative and deepening our understanding of Levi's motivations and the philosophical underpinnings of his relationship with Erwin. Thematic depth is a strong suit, delving into concepts of choice, consequence, the burden of leadership, and the profound cost of survival in a brutal world. The OVA brilliantly avoids the common pitfalls of prequels by not simply rehashing information but by expanding upon it, providing essential context that enriches the entire Attack on Titan saga. It’s a tightly woven narrative that is both self-contained and perfectly integrated into the larger universe, making No Regrets an essential, compelling, and utterly satisfying watch for any fan of the series or anyone appreciating a well-crafted, character-driven drama.