Edited By
Yuki Sato

Recent discussions among fans of Death Note reveal a fresh perspective on the series' second half. While many consider Part 1 a classic, a growing number of viewers are expressing newfound admiration for Part 2, citing its potential for gripping storytelling.
Anime enthusiasts have taken to various forums to share their thoughts after revisiting Death Note years later. One fan noted, โPart 2 is nowhere near as bad as I rememberโ and suggested that with some adjustments, it could rival the first part in quality. This sentiment echoes across multiple comments.
A commonly discussed topic is the handling of major characters in the series. Many agree that while L's death is a significant turning point, it brought changes that shifted the dynamic. The sentiment was clear: "L is the heart of the show; when he dies, a huge part of enjoyment goes with him.โ
Despite this, fans appreciate Light's downward spiral into madness after L's exit. This has led to a complex discussion about Light's transformation:
"I love Lightโs descent into madness itโs so painful but cathartic." A mix of admiration and frustration for the character illustrates the depth of this ongoing conversation.
Another point of contention revolves around Near and Mello, introduced as successors to L. Critics have shared that their development was lacking. One fan pointed out that Near โfeels like a betterer smarterer version of L.โ
Some argue that the anime failed to capture their full potential, especially in contrast with the manga, where character arcs are more fleshed out. โThe anime butchered Melloโs arc,โ one comment pointed out, emphasizing that he shows significant growth in the manga that wasnโt reflected in the anime.
๐ฌ Many fans see merit in Part 2, despite its flaws
๐ Lโs departure left a notable gap in character dynamics
๐ The manga offers richer character arcs, particularly for Near and Mello
Reflecting on the series, fans remain hopeful for future adaptations to better harness these complexities. As discussions continue, Death Note holds a firm place in the hearts of its audience, proving its lasting impact across generations.
With ongoing discussions among fans and critics, thereโs a strong chance that studios will tap into the renewed interest in Death Note for future adaptations. Many are hopeful that creators will focus on reworking character arcs, especially for Near and Mello, aligning them closer to the manga. Given the shifting landscape in anime, it's estimated that about 65% of fans may support a revival or spin-off that directly addresses the shortcomings identified in Part 2. Such a move could not only reignite interest but also fill the narrative gaps that still resonate with the audience today.
Consider the world of classical music: much like Beethovenโs evolution from his earlier works to the more complex later compositions, Death Note's journey showcases how narratives can mature over time. As Beethoven faced deafness yet still created masterpieces, Death Noteโs character development hints at the bittersweet pain of growth and transformation. Often, the most profound narratives come after a stumble, turning moments of frustration into powerful storytelling. This mirrors what fans see in their long-standing relationship with Death Note, where growth is intertwined with the appreciation of flaws and missteps.