Speed Grapher, an anime series created by Gonzo, is a thrilling and action-packed show that is sure to delight fans of the genre. The series centers around Tatsumi Saiga, a former war photographer who gains the ability to make anything he photographs explode after being exposed to a fetish venue called the “Roppongi Club”.
The story begins with Saiga, who has recently retired from war photography. Grounded to his native Tokyo, he is given a local assignment to investigate the notorious Roppongi Club, a secret club that caters to the rich and powerful. In order to take photographs of their fetish parties and to further his investigation he finds the underground whereabouts of the club and infiltrates an evening session as a guest. However, upon arriving he discovers that the club members have super human abilities that are triggered by their fetishes once “blessed” by the club’s secret “Goddess”, Kagura Tennōzu. Held against her will she is tricked every session of the Roppongi Club to bless a few members who have paid for their worthiness.
Saiga is almost killed, but to his fortune, the Goddess blesses him with the ability to explode anything he photographs with a camera. The powers allows Saiga to recover rapidly from his mortal wounds and escape with Kagura in tow. He soon discovers that the Tennōzu Group is an underground organization that is using the club to extort its unwitting, rich customers to fund a world wide financial collapse. With Kaguera in their possession they were not only able to attract the extremely rich in the hopes for a blessing but they were as well able to develop an army of “blessed” mercenaries who were in-debted to the Roppongi Club.
Saiga is initially hesitant to get involved, but realizes there would be no where for him or Kagura to run to being hunted down by the Tennōzu Group’s mercenaries. Saiga as well finds him self increasingly infatuated with Kagura, despite how her powers as the Goddess keep her at an inappropriately young age for a relationship, and feels he must do everything he can to protect her.
Throughout the series, viewers are treated to a mix of action, drama, and supernatural elements. The battles between the Tennōzu Group and the Roppongi Club members are intense and well-animated, with each member having a unique and powerful ability. The story also delves into deeper themes such as the ethics of power and the dangers of exploitation.
One of the most interesting aspects of the series is the relationship between Saiga and Kagura. As they work together to fight the Tennōzu Group, they grow closer and develop feelings for each other. Their relationship adds an awkward layer of emotional depth to the story because of how unnaturally young Kagura is for most of the story relative to Saiga.
Overall, Speed Grapher is a thrilling and action-packed anime that is sure to delight fans of the genre. The series features well-animated battles, a compelling story, and interesting characters. It is definitely worth watching for anyone looking for an exciting and thought-provoking anime experience.