Death Note

About Death Note

If you are hunting for a new mystery series, Death Note deserves a look (2006). The setup goes like this. The setup: Light Yagami is a genius high school student who is about to learn about life through a book of death. When a bored shinigami, a God of Death, named Ryuk drops a black notepad called a Death Note, Light receives power over life and death with the stroke of a pen.

Also worth knowing: Determined to use this dark gift for the best, Light sets out to rid the realm of evil… namely, the people he believes to be evil. Should anyone hold such power? The consequences of Light’s actions will set the realm ablaze.

As a mystery title, clues, misdirection and a satisfying reveal are the hook. Voice work is led by Kappei Yamaguchi as L Lawliet and Shidou Nakamura as Ryuk. This one is best suited to viewers who like piecing together a puzzle. At 37 episodes in total, it is easy to plan a viewing schedule.

Production & Appeal

Production sits with MADHOUSE and Ashi Productions, which means the visual identity of Death Note follows that studio's craft. Because it leans on mystery, clues, misdirection and a satisfying reveal are the hook. Viewers rate it 8.4/10, which signals strong word of mouth. Voice casting, including Kappei Yamaguchi as L Lawliet, adds to the appeal for fans who follow seiyuu. Released in 2006, it competed with that season's other new series for attention.