Introduction
B: The Beginning is a Japanese anime series produced by Production I.G and released on Netflix. It is a mix of psychological thriller, crime drama, and supernatural mystery, featuring a complex narrative filled with intrigue, action, and deep character arcs. The story revolves around the genius detective Keith Flick, the mysterious and powerful Koku, and the Royal Investigation Service (RIS) as they pursue a deadly serial killer known as "Killer B." Beneath the surface, there is a larger conspiracy involving secret experiments, supernatural abilities, and a hidden organization controlling events from the shadows.
Plot Overview
Episode 1-3: The Mystery Begins
The anime begins in the Kingdom of Cremona, a futuristic city plagued by a series of gruesome murders committed by a mysterious vigilante called "Killer B." This individual leaves behind a strange symbol at crime scenes. The Royal Investigation Service (RIS) is tasked with solving these murders, and to aid their efforts, they bring back Keith Flick, a once-renowned detective who had left the force due to personal trauma.
Parallelly, we are introduced to Koku, a young man with extraordinary abilities, who is searching for someone from his past. He is connected to the murders, but his true motives remain unclear. As Keith investigates, he begins to suspect that a secret organization may be behind the recent events, leading to a deeper and more sinister conspiracy.
Episode 4-6: The Truth About Killer B
As the RIS closes in on Killer B, they discover that he is not a mere serial killer but a person targeting specific criminals. His actions, while violent, seem to have a purpose. Koku’s supernatural abilities become more evident as he takes on enemies with ease, demonstrating inhuman strength and regenerative powers.
Keith delves deeper into the past, uncovering that Koku is connected to a top-secret experiment conducted by an organization called Market Maker. This organization had been manipulating genetic experiments to create superhuman beings called "Reggies." Koku, one of their test subjects, possesses a unique power that makes him a key figure in their plans. Market Maker’s influence runs deep, and its members begin targeting Keith and RIS agents who get too close to the truth.
Episode 7-9: Conspiracies and Betrayals
The RIS suffers multiple setbacks as Market Maker unleashes deadly assassins. Keith’s relentless investigation puts him at odds with the organization’s higher-ups, and he is framed for crimes he did not commit. Meanwhile, Koku continues his quest to find Yuna, a girl from his past who was also a part of the Market Maker experiments.
Keith discovers that the reason behind his sister’s murder, which led to his initial departure from RIS, is directly tied to Market Maker’s secretive operations. This revelation strengthens his resolve to bring them down. At the same time, Koku learns the truth about his origins and his connection to Yuna, further fueling his determination to stop Market Maker’s plans.
Episode 10-12: The Final Confrontation
As the story reaches its climax, the RIS launches a full-scale attack on Market Maker’s facilities. Keith and his allies infiltrate their stronghold, while Koku confronts the organization’s leader, Gilbert Ross, who has his own sinister agenda. In a high-stakes battle, Koku fully embraces his true form, showcasing his divine-like powers.
Keith, using his deductive brilliance, exposes the hidden forces controlling the kingdom. With Market Maker’s downfall, Koku rescues Yuna, and the RIS restores order to the city. However, lingering questions remain, hinting at deeper conspiracies yet to be uncovered.
Main Characters
1. Keith Flick
A genius detective with a tragic past, Keith is methodical and highly intelligent. His pursuit of justice is relentless, and he often comes across as eccentric due to his unconventional investigative methods. He is haunted by the unsolved murder of his sister, which serves as a major motivation throughout the series.
2. Koku (Killer B)
A mysterious young man with supernatural abilities, Koku is both feared and misunderstood. He is searching for his lost companion, Yuna, while battling against the sinister forces of Market Maker. His dual identity as a ruthless avenger and a kind-hearted individual creates a complex character dynamic.
3. Lily Hoshina
An RIS officer with a strong moral compass, Lily serves as the emotional heart of the investigative team. She is one of the few people who sees beyond Keith’s cold exterior and understands his pain. Her determination to uphold justice makes her a key figure in the investigation.
4. Gilbert Ross
The enigmatic leader of Market Maker, Gilbert is the mastermind behind many of the events in the series. His motivations are shrouded in secrecy, but his ultimate goal involves creating an elite race of superhumans. He is a formidable antagonist who challenges both Keith and Koku.
5. Yuna
A girl from Koku’s past, Yuna plays a crucial role in his journey. Her capture by Market Maker serves as a major plot point, driving Koku to uncover the organization’s secrets. She is a symbol of Koku’s lost humanity and a key to understanding his past.
Themes and Symbolism
1. The Nature of Justice
The anime explores different interpretations of justice. While Keith follows legal protocols, Koku takes matters into his own hands. This contrast raises ethical questions about morality and vengeance.
2. Identity and Purpose
Both Keith and Koku struggle with their pasts and their sense of purpose. Keith’s journey to uncover the truth behind his sister’s murder and Koku’s quest to find Yuna reflect the universal theme of self-discovery.
3. The Impact of Scientific Experiments
Market Maker’s genetic experiments symbolize the dangers of unethical scientific advancements. The creation of superhumans and the manipulation of genetics serve as a cautionary tale about playing god.
4. Isolation and Human Connection
Despite their strengths, both Keith and Koku are emotionally isolated. Their interactions with Lily and Yuna respectively show how human connection can provide solace in a world filled with chaos.
Conclusion
B: The Beginning is a masterfully crafted anime that blends crime, mystery, and supernatural elements. With its intricate storytelling, well-developed characters, and deep themes, the series keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. Keith Flick’s detective work, combined with Koku’s supernatural battles, creates a unique balance of realism and fantasy.
The anime leaves some mysteries open-ended, setting the stage for further exploration in its sequel, B: The Beginning – Succession. Overall, it is a thought-provoking series that challenges conventional narratives and delivers a thrilling, emotional experience for its audience.
