Try not to sing along.
A great opening is the key to a show's success, wouldn't you say? The opening has many important functions: to introduce the characters, to set the show's tone, and to give the viewer an idea of the fictional universe. In other words, it can rightly be considered an art in its own right.
In the history of anime, there have been many outstanding intros that have stayed with viewers for a long time. Let's try to review the greatest openings in history.
5. Sailor Moon – Moonlight Densetsu
The original Sailor Moon opening is still considered a classic example of how to do an intro. In fact, the main clichés were established here: the presentation of the heroes in separate frames, where their individuality is emphasized; the introduction of the villain, who is clearly opposed to the heroes; as well as an introduction to the world of the series. It is also worth mentioning the catchy synth-pop melody as part of the style that is still strongly associated with the series.
4. Neon Genesis Evangelion – A Cruel Angel's Thesis
Unlike Sailor Moon, Neon Genesis Evangelion (Shinseiki Evangelion) subverts the form in its intro. Here, the characters appear in separate frames, but instead of coming together as one would expect, they remain separate, alluding to one of the central themes of the series - loneliness and depression. The opening also features extremely choppy editing, which feels like a rebellion against the cozy intros of other anime.
3. Death Note – The World
Death Note can be considered an example of familiarity with characters and plot. Even if you haven't seen the series, you can probably guess what it's about. In the beginning, Light Yagami is introduced as a god who can control the fate of humans. The creators introduce a lot of religious imagery (for example, the apple of temptation). At the same time, Light’s antagonist, L, appears, obviously opposed to the main character (they differ in hair color and posture). A love theme is also introduced, which, as the opening makes clear, plays an important role in the plot.
2. Cowboy Bebop – Tank!
Cowboy Bebop’s opening has a slightly different purpose. Yes, it also introduces the characters, but we learn practically nothing about the plot and the world of the series. The opening is accompanied by a jazzy melody by Yoko Kanno. Jazz is very important for Bebop (even the name comes from the jazz style), so the intro had to create a light mood of jazz improvisation. At the same time, the visuals in the opening partly resemble a comic book, which together with the jazz melody creates an unexpected combination.
1. Attack on Titan – Guren no Yumiya
When Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin) began airing, openings became so important that special teams were hired to create them, and some teams now focus only on producing anime music. The first opening of Attack on Titan is the perfect combination of majestic music, dynamic visuals, and breathtaking style. It sets up an epic narrative and makes it clear – a difficult spectacle awaits us. The screen is flooded with blood, the inscriptions appear on an acidic background, and all the characters are devilishly serious. If that's not the perfect match for an epic saga, what is?