Review: Code:Realize − Guardian of Rebirth (2017)

Code: Realize − Guardian of Rebirth (2017) is a Japanese anime series that takes place in an alternative world of 19th century London, England. This series has 12 episodes plus an OVA.

Cardia Beckford, a young girl living in old London, is feared and branded as a monster due to the possession of a virulent poison in her body that melts away at anything. Confined alone in her family mansion by her father, she is captured by the British Army but rescued by Arséne Lupin, a handsome thief from French origin, and his friend Impey Barbicane, who is a whiz at engineering.

Riding off to their mansion hideout in the forest, she is introduced to Victor Frankenstein, a genius alchemist and scientist who acts together with Impey and Arsené. There, Cardia learns that her father, Isaac, was an inventor who created many amazing inventions, one of which, the Horologrium, is embedded inside her and currently functions as her heart. It is that reason that Cardia possesses that certain poison, which she uses gloves and specially altered clothes to suppress. As Isaac is involved in a terrorist plot along with a secret organization known only as Twilight, many out there wish to capture her for the Horologium.

Code: Realize was an adorable, romantic anime show set in an alternative world of Victorian England. The world-building was both historical and futuristic (paying homage to the Industrial Revolution in the late 19th century), which I found very unique and creative. Cardia and Arsene made a cute couple, but compared to other anime shows like Sailor Moon, Maid-Sama and even Devil's Line, their relationship will be easily forgotten because it felt more forced than natural in its build-up. But I'm glad Cardia deviated from the frail princess trope by wanting to be helpful in any way to the men. The team also includes names of famous characters written by English authors (Frankenstein, Van Helsing, Dracula, etc.) that will make the audience want to consider these classics. This is a good show worthy of binge-watching. I recommend it!


Opening theme: "kalmia" by Mia REGINA


Ending theme:"twinkle" by Saori Hayami