Teenagers (May contain bloody violence, bad language, nudity)
Vintage:
April 18, 1998
Status:
Completed
Summary:
High school student Takumi Fujiwara works as a gas station attendant during the day and a delivery boy for his father's tofu shop during late nights. Little does he know that his precise driving skills and his father's modified Toyota Sprinter AE86 Trueno make him the best amateur road racer on Mt. Akina's highway. Because of this, racing groups from all over the Gunma prefecture issue challenges to Takumi to see if he really has what it takes to be a road legend.
Initial D is a 1990s 26-episode anime series that contains not only racing but drama and action. While most anime fans, or people in general, are not that interested in cars, Initial D will still keep viewers interested thanks to its relatable main character, unique soundtrack, drama, character design, etc.
One of the key factors of this anime is the main character: Takumi Fujiwara. Like the casual viewer, he is not very interested in cars or races; sometimes even wondering why some are so into it. This makes it more easier for the viewer to share the same feelings with Takumi as the series progresses (especially if the same viewer starts getting somewhat interested in cars themselves (although this is no guarantee and is mainly based upon one's interest)). Another point is how the anime does a great job building up other characters, besides Takumi.
The only nitpick I have with this series is its use for CGI animation. However seeing as how it was quite new at the time and that drawing realistic cars is a time-consuming task for the animators, I will be light on the serie's use of CGI.
Overall, check this anime out. I would recommend getting/watching the Funimation version for a perfect, unedited experience.
