The Beginning After The End

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Summary

  • The premiere episode of The Beginning After The End excels in storytelling and focuses on family dynamics.
  • Good storytelling in Episode 1 compensates for the disappointing animation.
  • Despite animation issues, the amazing story of TBATE makes it worth watching on Crunchyroll.

A-1 Pictures has built a solid foundation for a successful anime adaption of a manhwa series, impressing many with their work on Solo Leveling. The manhwa industry is rich and unexplored, offering plenty to the anime community. Remarkably, Studio A-Cat is emulating A-1 Pictures’ approach to bring us an anime adaptation of yet another popular manhwa series, titled The Beginning After The End.

Last month, the studio unveiled the official trailer for “The Beginning After The End,” or “TBATE.” Despite the criticism surrounding its animation, fans of manhwa have been eagerly anticipating the premiere episode. Finally, after a prolonged wait, Episode 1 of the anime series has dropped on Crunchyroll. With its popularity comparable to “Solo Leveling,” the question remains: Does the anime adaptation of “TBATE” carry enough promise to join the ranks of other outstanding manhwa adaptations?

The Beginning After The End’s Premiere Episode Sets Good Standard For Storytelling

The Anime Wants You To Pay Attention To TBATE’s Massive World

In Episode 1 of TBATE, we are swiftly acquainted with King Grey, a merciless ruler who has cold-bloodedly taken the lives of millions to preserve his global dominion. With an army of immense proportions and limitless resources at his disposal, there was no one capable of contesting his power, save for death itself. Unfortunate as it may seem, King Grey’s destiny eventually catches up with him, leading to his demise under mysterious circumstances. However, it appears that death is merely the prelude to a new chapter in King Grey’s existence, as he finds himself reborn in a realm where magic thrives.

It’s quite unusual that King Grey, who is known as Arthur in this mystical realm, still recalls his past existence. Essentially, he found himself in the body of an adult as a child. Consequently, even as a newborn barely able to speak or walk, Arthur showed an innate curiosity about exploring this fresh world.

Although this life feels confining at times, it’s not entirely unwelcome. Has family life always been this way? (Arthur)

Despite being sometimes restrictive, it’s not completely unpleasant. Is this how families have traditionally been?)

I find myself in a new realm, dubbed ‘Dicathen,’ a continent divided into three distinct lands: Darv, the domain of Dwarves, Elenoir, the kingdom of Elves, and finally, Sapin Kingdom, the human territory where I seem to have been reborn. What intrigues me most about this world is the pervasive presence of Mana, a mysterious force that fuels all magic.

Individuals who possess innate magical abilities can utilize this power in two distinct manners – they may choose to specialize as either an Enhancer or a Caster. An Enhancer amplifies their physical prowess, whereas a Caster manipulates magical energy to materialize objects or effects as desired. Whilst having magic is advantageous, it can only be mastered by maintaining a strong connection through the “Mana center.” In just two years, Arthur immersed himself in all aspects of magic and miraculously attained control over his mana center, unleashing a torrent of magical flames that ignited his residence.

Episode 1 Surprises You With Arthur’s Narration Style

The standout feature isn’t necessarily the magic in the first episode of TBATE, but rather the strong focus on family dynamics. What might resonate most with fans is this heartfelt exploration of Arthur’s family life, a aspect that isn’t often highlighted in anime. Remarkably, just one episode manages to make you feel deeply connected to Arthur’s family, who could potentially take a backseat in the narrative as it progresses.

In a new phase of his life, Arthur, who once knew only coldness and lacked the experience of love, is now unable to ignore or deny the tender emotions of love, particularly through his interactions with his parents. The way he expresses his feelings towards his mother and father in this initial episode is truly moving and undeniably the most captivating aspect.

TBATE’s Amazing Story Deserves Better Animation

Hopefully, The Animation Will Evolve In Further Episodes

After viewing the official trailer, TBATE fans had a significant worry about the animation quality. Regrettably, their concern proved valid as the animation in Episode 1 seemed more like a series of still images rather than fluid motion. It can be quite irritating to see so many static frames within a single episode. One might anticipate seeing movement with the sound of rustling leaves, but instead, more static images are presented. However, it’s worth noting that the animation during fight scenes is passable, although there weren’t enough battle sequences in the first episode to make a definitive assessment.

In various cases, the quality of the animation improves as each episode progresses (and sometimes not). Fingers crossed that TBATE continues to excel rather than becoming overlooked due to subpar animation. Studio A-Cat hasn’t made a significant impact in the past with their animation work, so viewers had modest expectations for TBATE. However, this could potentially be an opportunity for the studio to prove themselves and regain recognition.

The Good Storytelling Makes You Forgive The Disappointing Animation In Episode 1

It is certainly worth mentioning that the animation in “The Beginning After The End” Episode 1 could have been improved, but it does not render the episode unwatchable. In fact, the story of TBATE is so captivating and engaging that it’s hard to look away from its massive world of Dicathen. The episode manages to evoke emotions and make us care about the characters, providing a compelling reason to give this series a chance.

The Beginning After The End Episode 1 is now available to stream on Crunchyroll.

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2025-04-03 01:50