Classroom of the Elite: The Complete Series

Adapted from the initial volumes of a light novel series by Shōgo Kinugasa and Shunsaku Tomose, this anime series is set at a special Tokyo school created by the government to train youngsters who display leadership potential. The students are divided into four sections—from A to D—dependent on their perceived aptitude, with groups awarded monthly points for good performance, as well as an opportunity to move up in rank. The chief protagonist is Ayanokoji, a member of Class D who seems entirely ordinary but is eventually revealed to be the result of a mysterious experiment designed to mold children into teenagers of special ability. Ayanokoji uses his superior intelligence to manipulate those around him to achieve his own ends, including his classmate Horikita. The storyline concludes with a multi-episode arc in which all of the classes are transported to a deserted island for a Survivor-style competition. One might be disappointed that the series ends with Ayanokoji—and other students—determined to continue acting in their own interest rather than cooperatively for the common good, but this handsomely animated series featuring interesting characters is thought-provoking, with provocative quotations from authors including Nietzsche and Sartre. Presenting all 12 episodes from 2017 in a dual-language Blu-ray/DVD Combo set, rated TV-14, this is recommended. (F. Swietek)