As 2024 comes to an end, Netflix released the second and final season of the 2021 animated series “Arcane.” The show has received raving reviews, including a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, and has won 22 awards, including 4 Emmys, and the series has definitely earned them. The series shows dedication from the creators, with amazing writing, characters, and animation that truly make the show so special.
The show is somewhat of a prequel to the video game League of Legends, following the playable characters of the game and based off the existing lore from the game. Although “Arcane” is based
off of League of Legends, you don’t need to know anything about the game or have played it to enjoy the series, coming from someone who knows nothing about this game and still loved the show.
The series consists of multiple storylines following different characters, that all intersect at various points in the show, creating an overarching storyline of the cities of Piltover and Zaun, which are on the brink of war. There is so much in terms of plots and storylines that the show sets up, that it would be difficult to mention everything and do the plot justice. The story is so well created and planned out,
and even though you are watching events unfold for different characters in different parts of the cities, you become so invested in each storyline and character, wanting to see more of the characters and not wanting to turn off your TV.
The writing in “Arcane” is fantastic, and the cast is stunning. It is easy to become obsessed with all of the characters, and, at least for me, it is hard to pick a favorite. Some of the major players in the story are Vi (Hailee Steinfeld) and her eventual love interest, Caitlin (Katie Leung), who are searching for Vi’s sister and wanted criminal, Jinx (Ella Purnell), along with rebel and local hero Ekko (Reed Lorenzo Shannon), while scientists Jayce (Kevin Alejandro) and Victor (Harry Lloyd) study the secrets of magic and work with technology powered by the arcane, while Jayce struggles with the political world alongside Mel (Toks Olagundoye). Every character is so well written and developed, and you really see how much time and effort was out into the creation of these characters and how stories were given to these characters. The soundtrack of the show is so perfect as well,
with songs created specifically for the show that work so perfectly with the overall vibe of the series. “Arcane” really shows how good an animated series can be, as there is so much to praise the animators for. The depth that went into both the creation of the world, with all of its small details and fantastical worldbuilding, and the characters, as the emotion portrayed through these characters and their experiences being reflected in their looks is spot on and brings the whole show together. Everything about the animation feels perfect for the show, making it clear why it has received glowing reviews on the style and commitment of the animation.
“Arcane” has so much about it that makes it such a fantastic show, and truly may be on of the best shows Netflix has produced, and the team of creators and actors have given fans what they hoped would be a fantastic ending to the story of these characters. This show is really a must-watch show of 2024, and is perfect end to a year in animation.
