James’s response, when Editor Chelsea ordered him to “Write about animation!” was to turn to Fate Zero (or FZ for the cool people).

By James Zheng

FZ is one of the most outstanding works in the modern anime realm. Many kinds of fictional elements in its works are beloved by the audience, making it a pioneer in the early fantasy-themed animation. After the publication of this work, the Fate series came out as a hit and became one of the most influential works in the animation industry. Its follow-up also extended the game in the basic concept of Fate.

FZ is originally written by Urobuchi Gen. Gen is famous for his unique style of script writing. His works such as Puella Magi Madoka Magica and Psycho-Pass have an exceptionally high rate in the animation forum and realm. Gen’s works will always give people an immensely eye-catching feeling, as well as a completely unexpected story turning point. The extent of story innovation completely captivates the audience and the audience wants to see one episode after another. In 2011, Ufotable produced FZ and released Aniplex. With its overall quality guaranteed, FZ is made into two seasons.

FZ was written before fate / stay night and serves as a sequel, and its story revolves around a crucial object, the Holy Grail. Its power can realize anyone’s wishes. In order to fight for the capture of the Holy Grail, seven participants are required to summon their servants to fight each other. Only one survivor can get the power of the Holy Grail. These servants are all designed based on real historical figures in history, like Alexander the Great, King Arthur, Gilgamesh. Each has different abilities. Due to distinct backgrounds each participant shares, they fight only for their own purposes and beliefs. Kiritsugu Emiya, the protagonist of the story, has a stronger desire for the Holy Grail than anyone and vows to use any means to win it.

The most extraordinary feature of FZ is not only the 3D fighting scenes in which it invested a lot of money, but also it has the gorgeous special effects that make every battle and action scene give people a strong visual enjoyment and an intense sense of reality. Every movement seems to be dynamically smooth. 

There is one moment in the story of FZ that contains thought-provoking content that feels like bringing a new dimension. Kirei Kotomine, the antagonist, accidentally participated in the war, but he doesn’t know what he is fighting for. He grew up in a religious family where he was extremely restricted and chained mentally and physically, which caused a defect in his personality. He is numb to everything around him and has a hollow heart. As the twist appears (which is when Gilgamesh, his mentor’s servant convinces Kotomine to find his “essence”), his nature and pursuit of “pleasure” is enlarged. Kotomine eventually betrays his teacher. 

FZ has achieved great success in depicting each character. Its borrowing of images of characters from history, such as Alexander the Great and Gilgamesh, achieve an unforgettable impression within the audience.

But the content of FZ is not meant to be fit for everyone. Some of the elements express both transparent and metaphoric satire on humanity and society, and some of them are controversial. But that’s why I recommend it; the whole story could be philosophical. I also think that it’s just a show after all, and we shouldn’t take it seriously. Just enjoy what they bring to us visually.

*Just a reminder Fate/Zero contains occasional violence content and is recommended for those who are seventeen or older.

Animation Editor: Chelsea