Made in Abyss

This 2017 fantasy anime series based on Akihito Tsukushi’s manga series centers on Riko, an orphan girl living in the town of Orth, which is home to a gigantic hole in the earth known as the Abyss. The Abyss has many levels where relics left behind by an ancient civilization are eagerly sought by treasure hunters, who descend into its depths despite a curse—a deadly disease that strikes some of the searchers when they return. A few who have reached the lowest regions have won recognition as "White Whistles"—including Riko’s mother Lyza, although she supposedly died during her last descent. Riko is introduced exploring the Abyss with fellow orphan Nat, where she is saved from destruction by Reg, a little robot in the form of a human boy. When Riko receives word that Lyza might still be alive at the bottom, Reg joins her in trying to reach her mother. The episodes follow the course of their descent as they encounter other treasure seekers along the way (some helpful, others not), along with a variety of fantastic and often dangerous creatures. Although it features a bright, candy-colored animation style, Made in Abyss grows progressively darker and grimmer. Presenting all 13 episodes from 2017 in a dual-language Blu-ray edition, rated TV-MA, extras include "making-of" featurettes, a Q&A with the filmmakers, an interview with composer Kevin Penkin, and a segment on the music score. An engaging anime tale, this is recommended. (F. Swietek)