Arcane: A Masterclass in Animated Storytelling
It’s kinda rare to find a show that truly pushes the boundaries of both visual artistry and narrative depth. Netflix’s Arcane does just that. This series, based on the popular e-sport game League of Legends, defies expectations of both animated shows and game adaptations. I can confidently say that Arcane stands on its own as a masterpiece of animation and storytelling.
The old formula of Satisfaction = Experience - Expectations rings true here; with minimal expectations, the actual satisfaction went to the roof.
Post-Disney Rule-book
It boldly breaks away from the Walt Disney formula, long followed by Western animation studios. Much like how “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” rightfully claimed the Oscar for Best Animated Feature, Arcane is a representative of a new era of audacious artistic choices.
The series’ visual style is nothing short of breathtaking, seamlessly blending 2D and 3D techniques to create a unique aesthetic that’s both gritty and beautiful. The attention to detail is astounding, from the intricate steampunk designs of the city’s towering spires to the grimy, neon-lit streets of the underworld. The cinematography employs non-standard angles, innovative compositions, and dramatic lighting that would be at home in a live-action film.
Interestingly, the characters themselves are deeply invested in various forms of art, from painting to music. There are scenes where characters are actively creating art, stroking paint onto canvas, their actions mirroring the creative process behind the show itself. Nice meta-textual layer.
While the character animations are indeed noteworthy, with facial expressions conveying complex emotions through subtle movements, it’s a holistic approach to the visual and auditory experience. It is enhanced by a masterful sound design and a compelling musical score.
Mature Narrative
While the visuals might draw you in, it’s the mature and intricate storyline that keeps you hooked. This is decidedly not a children’s show, tackling complex themes such as politics, class struggle, drug addiction, and mental health with depth and exploring themes of family, loyalty, and the corrupting influence of power.
What’s particularly impressive is how the show manages to give each character enough screen time to develop fully. Unlike series that rush to action scenes and vague dialogues (looking at you, “Rings of Power”), Arcane takes the time to develop its cast. Viewers understand and care about the characters’ motivations, making the conflicts feel real and impactful. There are no clear-cut heroes or villains here; even characters who initially seem antagonistic are given depth and motivation, making them understandable, if not always sympathetic.
One of the show’s greatest strengths is its world-building. While some shows struggle to make their lore accessible (think “House of the Dragon”, where many details are only truly appreciated in “making of” videos), Arcane manages to present its rich world in a way that’s both detailed and digestible. The cities of Piltover and Zaun are characters in their own right, with distinct aesthetics and cultures that inform the actions of their inhabitants. The show explores these locations methodically, allowing viewers to build a mental map of this fantastical world without feeling overwhelmed.
Super Accessible
As someone who came into Arcane with virtually ZERO knowledge of League of Legends (except knowing it’s a worldwide famous MOBA e-sport with a seemingly insurmountable entry barrier), I was pleasantly surprised by how accessible the show is. While there are undoubtedly references and Easter eggs for fans of the game, the series stands entirely on its own. The lore and world are introduced organically, never feeling like an information dump or requiring outside knowledge to appreciate.
Watching with my wife, who is also unfamiliar with the source material, was a delightful experience. The show sparked discussions until long after each episode ended.
It’s clear that the creators prioritized telling a compelling story first and foremost, rather than simply creating a cash grab. The second and final season is planned for release in November 2025, and we’ll be eagerly waiting on the couch.
