First Glance: Zom 100: Bucket Record of the Lifeless
Alternative title(s): Zom 100: Zombie ni Naru made ni Shitai 100 no Koto
Manga Adaptation by Bug Films
Streaming on Crunchyroll
Premise
Akira Tendou, a 24-year-old office worker, finds himself locked in an exploitative firm, frequently working for days on end for a harsh boss without appropriate food or sleep, and finds himself living a life devoid of any meaning or fun. But when he wakes up for work one morning, he discovers himself in the middle of an unexpected zombie apocalypse. Akira is resolved to live out the rest of his life, whatever long it may be, with absolutely no regrets despite the fact that he is now fighting for his life. Despite the fact that he is now in danger, Akira is not afraid but thrilled at the idea of finally being free from his job and the corporate world.
Artemis’ verdict: Mixed Bag
I was really hoping that this would be the concert that would shake up the mid-tier and below shows in the summer of 2023. Unfortunately, I don’t believe that will be the case. Considering that I’m evaluating Zom 100 in comparison to other anime rather than just on the basis of its own merits, that may be a little unfair of me, but even so, I can’t help but have the impression that the show will likely end up being ordinary at best, or slightly above if I’m lucky.
Don’t get me wrong; there are positive aspects about Zom 100. Even though I am aware that such companies exist, I can honestly say that I have never worked for one, at least not to the extremes that this anime depicts. Nevertheless, I found the MC to be incredibly relatable. What working adult hasn’t occasionally sighed in longing that even if some fantastical apocalyptic event meant the end of hot showers, easy food, and online entertainment, at least they would no longer be required to fill out endless paperwork, file their taxes, or show up for yet another day at a job that overworks and underpays? Everybody has been there, and Zom 100 is aware of it.
I really liked how the premiere took its time to establish this situation. Although the series’ main motivation and action are obvious from the very first frame, even if you approach it with no prior knowledge, it’s still nice to have some time to get comfortable and learn about Akira’s background. This allows for some good characterization rather than focusing solely on the horror element. This is greatly influenced by black humour, and the success of this element of the program depends on Akira’s situation.
Although I understand the visual humor and intention of the artwork, the motion feels a little lackluster. The anime also regrettably falls victim to the same old seinen cliche of being excessively oversexed, as if awkward “sexy” camera angles are the only acceptable method to convey to the audience that a woman is considered appealing. Nothing about Zom 100 is subtle, and that includes the speech, which is frequently crude as well as the conventional bust and thigh shots. It doesn’t spoil the series, but it makes me feel a little less entertained.
Overall, it’s a mixed bag, and how well it works for you probably depends a lot on how much you like dark humor, vivid body horror, and perhaps even a deliberate lack of complexity.
Jel’s verdict: One Bite Away
Th
This was so close to being fantastic, and I’m not sure why it’s not quite there for me. I think the notion has a lot of potential for future episodes, it’s stylish, and I enjoy it. This first episode was incredibly well-paced and directed, and there are some amusing shots that hint at what’s to come, like the main character plodding home after work like a weary zombie.
But ultimately, may it be too basic? Even though the episode’s events should have been shocking and its major action moments should have been exciting, I didn’t respond as strongly to it as I would have expected because it was all so straightforward. More cringey than tragic or humorous, Akira’s declaration of love to his zombified crush left the audience. However, I did like this enough to watch another episode, and I’m interested to see what they do now that the “office from hell” is no longer a thing.” What will the rest of the series be like if Akira’s soul being crushed held all the emotional weight of this episode? I suppose we will see.
