Like Himmel, we will say a brief goodbye. The anime adaptation of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End finally ended at episode 28. With the conclusion of the series, I'm glad that it stayed true to its essence-following the manga closely, continuing the final exams, and Shows more interactions between characters. While this may not have been an explosive finale, the characters instead simply moved on with their lives after the exams.
While there isn't a grand conclusion or even just a ceremony honoring Fern and the others as they rank up to S-Class, it doesn't detract from the overall quality of the episode. Frieren's final episode still leaves a lasting emotional impact, touching the hearts of everyone who has participated in this journey since it began.
Through its 28-episode journey, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End maintains its high production standards and the finale is no exception. While many anime series stumble or fall short of their goals at the end, Frieren remains consistently strong. Every episode, every scene, and every intricate detail is carefully crafted and adds to the overall beauty of the series.
For example, in episode 14, there is a notable subtle detail when Himmel places the ring on Frieren. Behind them is a clock tower, which at first glance seems like a simple background feature. However, it is much more than that. The clock tower symbolizes that the only thing standing between Frieren and Himmel is time.
Similarly, in episode 18, a seemingly small moment has a deeper meaning. I may have taken it literally at first, but it could also mean that Frieren's expression suggests the fleeting nature of time. Looking at Fern, she realized she was getting old and would eventually pass away. Moments like these remind us that even the smallest details have the greatest significance, and that time is an essential theme throughout the series.
The beauty of this anime goes beyond its themes, storytelling, animation, and subtlety. Rather, it is the ability to execute competently that truly makes the difference. Whether presenting thrilling battles, heart-wrenching moments or light-hearted humor, Frieren excels at capturing every emotion it seeks to portray. When the story wants to evoke a specific feeling, the anime ensures a seamless and engaging viewing experience throughout. From direction, pacing, and even just the combination of voice acting and music — anime shines in every aspect when it comes to combining and conveying these elements together, all to create something resonates deep within us.
Even so I've expressed my gratitude to the staff many times in my previous reviews, but I still feel like it's never enough. The consistency remains unparalleled and this is the result when you have a team passionate about trophies. This also would not have been possible without the dedication of the creative team and their leader, the revolutionary director, Keiichiro Saito.
Keiichiro Saito in Frieren: Beyond Journey's End and Bocchi the Rock
Keiichiro Saito has quickly topped my list of favorite anime directors, and with good reason. Not only because of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End but also because of its ability to turn seemingly slow stories into engaging and touching experiences on screen. When the anime staff was revealed, I was so excited. Not only is it animated by the studio behind my all-time favorite anime, A Place Beyond Than the Universe, and features music by Evan Call, the OST composer for my second favorite anime I, Violet Evergarden, but it is also being directed by Keiichiro Saito.
Saito's achievements speak volumes. He is the mastermind behind Bocchi the Rock, an anime series that revolutionized the “moe” or “cute girls doing cute things” genre, making it appeal to a wider audience. Despite being overshadowed by other famous titles airing in the same season, Bocchi still shines brightly thanks to Saito's direction. Fast forward to Frieren: Beyond Journey's End and Saito is once again working his magic, leading a team that creates one of the greatest anime series ever made. He has delivered something truly inspiring, special and almost perfect.
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is not a perfect anime. It's not perfect because in reality, there will never be a perfect anime. However, if there is a series that is nearly perfect, it is this one. I've almost exhausted the thousands of compliments on this show but still feel like it's not enough. No amount of words, whether thousands or millions, can truly capture the dazzling beauty of this masterpiece. This anime is simply breathtaking. While I longed for a sequel, I was strangely satisfied with its open ending. The journey to Ende continues in the manga so it's not really over.
I know I said I would keep this review short, and honestly, I could dissect much more detail about Frieren's final episode and the whole thing but I'll save that for next time. I won't finish this review because according to Himmel, that would be embarrassing. Perhaps it's best to say: “Until we meet again, Frieren.”
Screenshot of the final episode of Frieren Beyond Journey's End via Muse Asia
Screenshot of Bocchi the Rock via Crunchyroll
© Yamada Kanehito, Abe Tsukasa/Shogakukan/“Sousou no Frieren” Production Committee
© Aki Hamaji/Hobunsha, Aniplex
