Why Odd Taxi is the hidden gem every anime fan needs to watch

If it isn’t already apparent from its unique art style and character design, Odd Taxi radiates charm. Moreover, the world of anime right now is full of shonen shows with vibrant battles and countless isekai titles. This anime has taken a break from following the same format of the usual mainstream storytelling and ensures that the audience is going to have a unique experience if given a try.

If you’re an anime fan and haven’t watched Odd Taxi yet, allow me to tell you why it deserves a spot on your must-watch list. Even before anyone starts watching the episode, this series starts with compelling viewers to watch the opening theme.

Usually, opening themes in anime are focused on introducing the characters, but Odd Taxi uses this opportunity to give hints about the story. But if viewers pay attention, and you should, they will realize that every conversation, every bit of incidental dialogue, every newsflash on the car radio is a breadcrumb leading to something bigger.

The cab becomes more than just a setting; it’s a confessional booth, a puzzle box, and a pressure cooker all rolled into one. What struck me is how natural everything feels. Exposition is delivered so casually that viewers almost miss it. But the more I listened, the more I realized how intricately woven the plot is. This is slow-burn storytelling at its finest.

It’s absurd in many ways, talking animals dealing with crime, fame, and existential angst, but that absurdity somehow adds to the realism. These aren’t “furry” caricatures. They’re characters with flaws, ambitions, and regrets. I can’t stress enough how grounded and relatable this show feels, even with a gibbon carrying six smartphones or a llama with anxiety issues.

Social commentary that cuts deep is done right by Odd Taxi

I’ve seen a lot of anime try to tackle modern themes, but Odd Taxi does it with razor-sharp precision. Whether it’s the toxic idol industry, the hollow pursuit of internet fame, or the creeping loneliness of urban life, Odd Taxi dives in headfirst without ever feeling preachy. It holds up a mirror to society and says, “Look at yourself.

The show’s take on social media obsession was especially resonant for me. Kabasawa, the hippo who’s obsessed with going viral, is a painfully familiar character. And these themes hit hard, especially if you’re in your late 20s or 30s, as the daily grind chips away at your soul.

Another thing I admire is how morally complex the show is. There are no true heroes or villains in Odd Taxi. Everyone operates in shades of grey. Dobu, the gangster, is a criminal, but he’s also weirdly principled. The idol girls appear innocent, but the things happening behind the scenes are anything but. Even Odokawa himself isn’t who viewers think he is.

Visual symbolism and artistic choices

I also want to talk about the visual storytelling. Odd Taxi doesn’t rely on flashy action scenes or epic showdowns. Even the anthropomorphic character design isn’t just a gimmick.

It serves the story in surprising ways, ways I can’t discuss without diving into spoilers, but suffice it to say, the choice of animals for each character says something about who they are, and the “why” behind it all makes complete sense in hindsight.

One of the boldest narrative choices Odd Taxi makes is telling parts of the story from perspectives other than Odokawa’s. At first, this was a little jarring. I found myself wondering why we were suddenly following a random alpaca or a failed comedian. But by the end, I saw how genius it was.

Each new character’s POV added another piece to the puzzle, and as the series progressed, everything began to fall into place. It’s the kind of structure that rewards attentive viewers.

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In conclusion, Odd Taxi is one of a kind anime that offers a mysterious story, and as we go through the episodes, it feels like the audience is also part of the journey. As the major mystery is uncovered, it might leave the viewers shocked, but it would be worth it. While this show might not appeal to all types of audiences, I still urge fans who enjoy anime to give it a try.

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