Why You NEED To Watch ARCANE 

Hi everyone! Hope you liked my cosplay on the hello fresh ad (btw we do highly recommend the service, BP seal of approval for sure check the description ) a lot of people have been asking about the music I used in the video, most of it is from Paradise Killer. There’s also a little from Katana Zero. The ad has the casino theme from DOA Xtreme volleyball, outro is “try to have some fun for me” from yakuza. There may be a random song from king of fighters 98 in there somewhere as well. Enjoy the music and thank you for watching! -Mike

Arcane has set the standard for video game adaptations. There are no excuses anymore. These companies have to actually try now because if Arcane can do it, so can they.

By the way, this took 6 years to make. So if anyone else manages this level of animation within the next couple I will be surprised. Riot basically built Fortiche from 20 employees to 200 to be able to make Arcane and keep it as in house as possible.

I think Arcane traded complexity of plot for complexity of character. By having a reasonably simple story when viewed from the big picture, it was able to devote screen time to what it really seems to want to do; Invest you into the perspectives of all its characters so you really understand who they are, why they do what they do, why they are the way they are and why they couldn't make any other decisions than the ones they make even when other choices were available. Everything seems to be aimed at this goal. The richly, meticulously detailed art of the world lets it passively provide information on the two sides of this city without exposition, which in turn informs the characters who live in them. The incredibly animated facial animations and body language of the character models give you insight into what these characters are thinking, what they are feeling, what their personalities are which frees up the dialogue to provide other information through character interaction that further flesh out these people. Which this is all compounded by the music and sound design and the excellent voice acting. It's a truly layered approach to story telling that is incredibly efficient and the result is just wonderful to watch. And as beautiful as the art is, its not just here for eye candy. It's all purposeful in service of these characters, that's really the heart of this show.

A couple items: - It’s pronounced “four-teesh” :) - The soundtrack isn’t licensed but instead each and every song in the score and soundtrack were made specifically for Arcane. Likely due to Riot’s longstanding relationships with musical artists and producers built up over the last decade of music videos and musical albums, they honed and crafted all the songs to really underscore the emotional tone of the moment being shown-and I think to particular impact at the climax of each of the 3 acts.

Just wanted to add something! At 10:22 you mention Arcane's soundtrack as being licensed - this isnt the case! All the songs in Arcane were made specifically for the show, and were produced by Riot's own music division!

I have preached about this shows greatness on my podcast, barber shop, total strangers at Walmart and anyone within 5 10 feet. I hope this series keeps up this level of story telling, complexities, and the god level animation. My granny goodness the animation is so damn good

Jinx destroying the council at the end, had me warped with emotions and her accidentally killing mylo, clagger and Vander made me cry

Bonsai Pop: Arcane.. Me: Please hold while I watch a show I've never heard of, start to finish. That's how consistently high quality, heartfelt, and well thought out this channels content is. Edit: I'm back. This show will go down as one of the greats. I am still reeling from the emotional rollercoaster that is Arcane, not to mention how god damn pretty it is. 10/10 from someone who only knows LoL from hearing a roommate scream into a mic at 3am years ago.

The bridge scene with Jinx and Echo was EPIC!

How they showed off the world and lore was epic af like how is league so good at everything besides the actual game lol

This is one of the few shows that's consistently so good it makes me want to show it to my parents

I literally just got into this show because of C2E2 this year and I’m so glad I did! Honestly one of the best written shows I’ve seen in a while with multiple complex characters we can empathize with. Just finished episode 4 and can’t wait to finish! Glad to see so many people talking about it!

Multiple french studios have been doing 3D extremely well for many years now! They don't come cheap though, which typically keep studios from using them.

On my first watch, I loved the orchestral score but thought the pop songs clashed with the dark steampunk vibe and undermined some scenes' emotional tension. After watching through Arcane multiple times, my brain has learned to associate those songs with the feelings I had watching the show. Now I drive around listening to the OST, singing along at full chest voice.

Arcane is an amazing show. I love how it makes you relate to the tragedies of the characters, especially Jinx and Vi. That said, Viktor is my favorite character for the slow build-up of his character arc. Can't wait to watch Season 2 in a few years.

I have never played League of Legends and absolutely loved Arcane. It's sooooo good from the story to the characters to the animation.

Love this show and the characters and the feel of it all. The visuals are mind blowing. But damn if I hear enemy again it’ll be too soon lmao

I was waiting for Mike's view point on Arcane. This should be fun!!

While on the subject of video game adaptations, Castlevania is also an incredible animated show. It sits with Arcane as the top 2 best video game adaptations. The animation, especially the action, is stellar, the voice acting is top tier, and just like Arcane, it doesn’t alienate anyone who hasn’t played the source material. I myself have never played Castlevania and I had no trouble being introduced to its world. When you said Arcane was, “infinitely more accessible as a show compared to any other video game adaptation.” I knew you had not seen Castlevania. If you’re feeling generous, please make a video about it someday. I’d love to hear what you would have to say about it.

I learnt my lesson from Invincible that, if the Internet doesn't stop talking about an animation exclusive to a subscription service, it's going to be alright. Arcane wasn't just alright though, it was good enough to make me watch it all in two sittings. I can't even watch movies in less than four sittings, that should speak volumes about its quality. Still won't convince me to play League of Legends though.

I remember earlier in the year I was watching a documentary about the creation of Batman the Animated Series. Long story short, it ended being grou dreaming because the right people were in the right place at the right time. I came away from it lamenting that we probably won't ever see anything like that happen again but Arcane proved me dead wrong. The right people were in the right place at the right time and they made something as transcendent, arguably more so, than BTAS. It just goes to show that good things come to those who wait.

Lmao, I might have to get on the hello fresh train after seeing that ad! Also I've been on the fence about watching Arcane because I don't care for LoL so I'm glad to see you vouch for it. You got good taste man

I didn't know it fas a french studio but now it makes sense, it has this European comic vibe. The story is quite safe in some moments but could watch the show back to back, it's beautiful and amazing. And the finale sublime. Loved how everyone moved in their different ways, each character had it's walk.

I didn't really care to watch Arcane, but seeing that you covered it I took the time really sit down and watch it. It was great.

Awesome review dude. Arcane ignite my animation/illustration funk

I love your channel so much. I would not even know where to start on a list of things that I love about it, from both of your voices to the editing and subject matter. But I think what really helps you stand out is the fact that you actually stand up for what's right. You stand up for trans people. You stand up for science. And for that, I thank you.

Arcane’s animation sure is beautiful that’s for sure

Arcane is beautiful. It took me forever to watch cuz I’m not a fan of league of legends but damn that show was good. The character Mel??? Never really thought an animated character was gorgeous but god damn!!!

Man, I always love hearing you talk Mike, the passion in your tone of voice for what you do really shines through! And yes PLS do a video on Gorillaz, that would be so cool. I love Gorillaz, their sheer creativity, lore and characters!

I am a little late but just to clarify your question about how much story can you put into a MOBA, League of Legends packs a lot of lore ingame, through champion interactions and the profile tab of the characters you get to know a ton of background, and their relationships with the other champions. Like seriously, some champions alone have 20 minutes worth of voicelines and interactions inside the game. Of course most of the lore is available only on the Universe section of the LoL website.

Ah it feels nice listening to you again, finally a video of something i have already watched, great talk as always, time went by and i was so mesmerized, it really was a great video with insight and it made me reflect a bit and yeah arcane really do hit different. Also, the commitment to the hello fresh bit was great

I've never been a LOL played, yet somehow Arcane has become my obsession, I legit love this show.

This show has set the bar REALLY high for future shows inspired by video games. It took years to create, and it shows, BUT IN A GOOD WAY. It meant they cared about their baby and wanted the best for it. I can’t wait for season 2, but there’s now way I’ll ever play League….🤗🤗🤗🤗

I forgot what interview I saw but one of the character designers responsible for Ekko said he was inspired by Static from DC’s Static Shock. You can see he’s got all sort of amalgamations of other stuff but the core design is Static.

Your b roll footage timing up with what points of current topic exceptional as always , really love the intricacy shown, very well done.

Damn I’m gonna have to give this a watch asap. I’m working my way through super crooks. Love your breakdowns as always Mike!

Been watching this series and loving it! Looking forward to finishing it soon!

Some anime I’d LOVE for y’all to do please are Blood Blockade Battlefront or Bungo Stray Dogs

This channel deserves to be of the greats , nothing but prosperity to you guys

Fortiche rhymes with quiche, it's pronounced like for-teesh

Riot and Fortiche have worked together for a long time. They actually made the Jinx music video riot released when they announced Jinx as a new character back in 2013. The song is even in Arcane as a easter egg & the designs of jinx's little robots are pulled from that video. It's real cool to see a animation created back in 2013 have the style and design revamped and updated for a full series.

This definitely got me stoked for the show! Thanks guys!

When I say I can not wait for season two I can not wait season one was so good from the animation style , the characters, the music , the actors , the cyber punk theme all my favorite things wrapped into one show

Well .. I have to watch this now . Amazing, thank you for the rec

Thanks bro because I was looking for another anime to get into!

This is a series that lives up to the hype, and beyond it. Between this and Komi-chan, Netflix is keeping me waiting. I say, hurry up already. 😎

The first thing in a LONG time that made the hair on my arms stand on end.... f'ing brilliant.

this show was already on my radar and I was going to watch it eventually but now this has shot to the top of the list cause that is how much I respect you guys opinion

The art style looks like someone took Dresden Codak and animated it. It's beautiful.

I was apprehensive about watching it because it was based on lol as well but it's a fantastic show. Glad you covered it!

I had the same experience when beginning to watch arcane except I didn't watch it so this has convinced me to give it a shot.

I was hoping y’all would do arcane. 👌🏽

Another fantastic video. Added to my watch list. If bonsai pop says it’s gd .. enough said. Also I appreciate the butt cam In the sponsorship section.

Well said. I as a league of legends player was mad at first but your points about it were fair. Then your points about the show made sense too. Good video

Once again my man. You have convinced me. Alright, time for another one to scratch off!

There’s a phrase in animation; every frame, a masterpiece. Arcane has achieved that.

17:55 I wouldn't want to see a Fortnite series either, but I never wanted to see a League of Legends series either, now I've watched it and want more. Arcane proves that what's being adapted matters a lot less than how it's being adapted.

This show blew my mind, not so much the animation (which over exceeded my expectations), but the storyline and character development. In a good series, there's usually one char that gets a good character development and that char becomes the fav of the fanbase. But in this series, all the characters gets a development, which is incredible. Just goes to show the level of love that the writers have for each single character.

man I wish i didnt know the lore before hand, it mustve have been amazing to discover it through this show

Excuse me bonsai pop I love the fact you got me into monster really good anime. but I was wondering if you could cover blood +at some point it's one of my absolute all-time favorite animes like I always put in the top three

great pacing, great writing, great video

Arcane and a few months later Edgerunners showed what video game adaptations can be. God I hope other franchises follow suit

I feel very validated as a long time Vi main

Honestly, after watching Arcane I just can't see shows the same anymore. Arcane has set the standard for series in general for me , now I can't just sit down and waste my time on any run of the mill piece of media. Nothing really compares to arcanes mastery.

I just finished arcane it was AMAZING frfr and i love looove looovvveee jinx sooo sooo much🤩🖤

really appreciated that opening with the katana zero music

I just watched the first 3 episodes last night. Good timing.

I have to say as an avid League of Legends player it's kind of funny seeing you guys make a video on arcane lol

Great video guys. I really do think arcane is the best show in terms of video game adaptations. Can't wait for season 2.

Whoooo right Fortiche appreciation. pretty rare.

okay, now lets see black lotus, samurai soul, and altered carbon get this treatment

yay! I'm so happy you loved it as much as I did

One of the moments that made me a fan of this series was in the first ep. The kids are running away from Enforcers and have to jump a drawbridge. They do it, and several Enforcers do as well, but one fails....and they animate his full expression in a closeup from determined to realizing he's screwed. There is NO REASON to do this. They could have had him fail the jump in a wide. Right then, I realized the show was playing for keeps.

Pls do Trinity Blood!! 🙏🏽😊 I will never give up 🙌🏽

I just KNOW that Arcane will inspire generations of young people to become animators and artists themselves, and that makes me so happy during these gloomy times.

Just found your channel. Very Impressive. Are you planning to do anything about: Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time? That whole...concept?(I guess I'll call it that) has been occupying a small plot of realty my head, rent free, for some years now. I need closure.

Just a suggestion but if you like great anime characters, I would recommend the Monogatari series, starting with Bakmonogatari. Plus it's art style is pretty cool as well.

Good to see something different every once in a while, it’s nice to see you don’t think your fans are one note weeb peons

Thanks for the vid

i was not expecting to enjoy that as much as i did. I mean look i played lol when it was in the alpha stage and we had like 16 heroes. If you weren't taking ghost walk cleanse you were doing it wrong and this little unknown game became what it is today . Havent played in years so when i saw a show about league i figured it was going to be about pretty boys and girls doing pretty things of League of legends recent releases to go off of. Did not expect to get hit in the feels in such an artistic fashion. Those fights up there with the best of them . Im real glad you guys give it the props i think it deserves as well

I missed you guys

When this series has had some more time to breathe you guys should do a more spoiler heavy analysis on it.

Love the Katana Zero soundtrack in the background.

Woooooo! Edit: Omg. You're the first to bring up and relate spiderverse, but also straight up say it does a lot more. Thank you! I love spiderverse too. But this was a much bigger endeavour and I'm glad at least some ppl recognised that labour of love

Great review for a rly rly rly rly amazing show !!

WAS THAT ZONE-TAN WHEN YOU SAID "DAMN CLOSE"? OMG

That add for Hello Fresh was top notch, I’m sold. It’ll wait until payday though

The animators/artists definitely bumped the lamp for Arcane.

Man you are rocking the tattooed punk in a smock look. Great job on the cooking.

When you talk about Gorillaz people up in Canada would appreciate a digression on our own animated band Prozzak.

Fuck yeah I was wishing you did an EP on this shit

Bumping that Chinatown ost.

The reason why the theme / motif of inequality and class war work is because it never devolves into ideology. An ideological telling of a theme abandons all nuance in pursuit of evangelizing its own moral clarity. All villains aren't just bad but wholly bad in every way and all heroes are just noble but good and moral in every meaningful way. This isn't the case with Arcane. Silco is not a hero because he fights against Piltover. Jayce isn't a villain because he is a Piltover elite. Instead they are humans who have both positive and negative traits that get fed into by their environment. Jayce's eagerness to please and desire to keep people safe (along with his ignorance) allow him to be manipulated or to overreact to legitimate threats from the undercity. Silco's desire for freedom and camaraderie amongst the oppressed is noble but he also murders, pushes drugs, and terrorizes those same people in the pursuit. Having human beings influenced and driven by the theme rather than mouthpieces for the authors is what makes it work.

That’s funny I wonder how many saw that apron and were like what I got that apron 2!

I kinda like bonsai pop came into watching arcane with a bit of knowledge that it had to do with LOL even though I've never played it myself. It felt more like its own story than anything and original in its own unique way. The animation, characters, and story are what I enjoyed about especially the visuals at certain times almost creating a sense of euphoria. Arcane is not anime and I'm glad its not, its something all its own that has created a new milestone in animation done right as well as being a brilliant adaptation of a video game. I can't wait for the next season and bonsai pop leave those who don't want the covid vax alone, theres already enough division and its their choice. Love your content as always.

Great vid, my dudes!

I’m definitely going to watch this even though I’m not a lol fan.

Color me intrigued! Also the goofy accent made the ad completely worth my time.

Binged it in 1 sitting. It was awesome!