Madhouse's "Frieren: Beyond Journey's End" series

Review by Dennis D. McDonald

I'm adding FRIEREN along with THE APOTHECARY DIARIES to my list of favorite anime series. Frieren offers sophisticated character development, a constantly evolving and sophisticated story, and superb animation. Especially well done is how history and backstory are interwoven with what is essentially an extended road trip.

Throughout the series the main characters walk from place to place while encountering situations enabling very sophisticated world building involving demons, magic, mortality concerns, and medieval economies and politics.

Central to it all is the character of Frieren herself, an apparently ageless elf who has outlived many human companions as she pursues learning everything she can about magic and magic spells.

Much of the series is slow moving as we watch Frieren and her companions walk from place to place. Their conversations are at times playful, wistful, and even philosophical. She has outlived many companions but flashbacks and reminiscences add many layers to our understanding of her and the societies she has experienced.

When action scenes occur - and there are many - they are fast, furious, and among the best I've seen in anime, even when magic spells and energy blasts are involved. Highly recommended if you're interested in both action and thoughtfulness.

Review (c) 2026 by Dennis McDonald

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