Ranking of Kings

2021

Original language: Japanese

animation
action & adventure
sci-fi & fantasy

The story

In a world where kings are ranked, a kindly little hearing-impaired prince sets off on a journey to become a powerful king, despite all odds.

What it’s like

Bright, painterly fantasy with saturated greens, golden castle halls, and sun-warmed forest and mountain vistas, drawn in hand-animated anime with fluid, expressive character work. The battle sequences are sweeping and kinetic, while quieter scenes lean on soft lighting and gentle pauses. The sound design shifts attention to silence and small sounds at times, and the score is warm and orchestral, swelling into adventure cues. The vibe is earnest, hopeful and adventurous, with an undertone of melancholy and cruelty that surfaces in the court's contempt for the underdog. Its heroes move from humiliation toward a hard-won sense of worth, through loyalty, friendship and quiet persistence. Violence is regular but stylised: sword fights and combat with some blood and moments of peril, not gory, with dark themes of bullying, betrayal and assassination attempts. Best for a weekend binge with a comfort-seeking mood, for viewers who enjoy shounen adventure with heart, and for anyone who wants a fantasy world that rewards patience and kindness.

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