There are plenty of good anime out there, but when I think about the ones that had the most impact on me, Psycho-Pass immediately comes to mind.
The Japanese sci-fi thriller explored societal and psychological themes through the lens of The Sibyl System, a surveillance network that quantifies people's mental states in order to determine every aspect of their future — from one's level of education to their future career, hobbies, choice of friends or potential spouse.
In theory, The Sibyl System is meant to guarantee a fair and perfect society — one that is free from stress and crime. But as we learn through the case of inspector Akane Tsunemori, a recent hire at the Criminal Investigation Department — Sybil's analysis of its citzens is not always correct.
Alongside her partner, enforcer Shinya Kogami, Akane sets out to unveil the truth behind The Sibyl System — and what follows is a brilliant exploration into corruption and what humans deem as morally and socially acceptable.
Set against the backdrop of a dystopian 22nd-century Japan, Psycho-Pass received international acclaim when it was first released — and 10 years on — with technological advancements progressing so quickly — its themes are more relevant than ever.
Now, a decade after premiering, Crunchyroll has announced that the popular anime is back with a new tale called Psycho-Pass: Providence, which will continue the battle between Akane and The Sibyl System.
Alongside the announcement, a new trailer for Psycho-Pass: Providence was released — and oh my god, I'm already so excited to watch this on the big screen.
View this video on YouTube
The official synopsis for Psycho-Pass: Providence is as follows: "January 2118. Chief Inspector of the Criminal Investigation Department, Akane Tsunemori, receives a report of an incident on a foreign vessel — the body of Professor Milicia Stronskaya has been discovered."
"Behind the incident is a group known as the Peacebreakers, a foreign paramilitary organisation and a new outside threat who are targeting the professor's research papers known as the 'Stronskaya Document'".
"Reunited with Shinya Kogami, a former fugitive from the Criminal Investigation Department, Akane grapples with a case that quickly escalates beyond their expectations. The Stronskaya Papers could reveal a truth that would shake Japan's government, and even the Sibyl System, to the core."
As seen in the trailer, fan-favourites like Akane and Kogami will be returning, alongside other characters like Nobuchika Ginoza, Yayoi Kunizuka, Shion Karanomori, Mika Shimotsuki and Sho Hinakawa.
Plus, many of the crew who have worked previously on Psycho-Pass will be returning — including Naoyoshi Shiotani, Makoto Fukami, Tow Ubujata and Gen Urobuchi — so you can trust that this upcoming adaptation is in good hands.
The best part about the announcement for Psycho-Pass: Providence? Anime fans don't have to wait long for the chance to watch it. It's coming to North American and Australian cinemas on July 13!
As someone who has been watching Psycho-Pass since the beginning, July can't come soon enough.
P.S. If you need to catch up on all things Psycho-Pass, Crunchyroll has all the eps and movies available to stream.