One of the Best Shonen in Recent Years Just Started Its Season 2 – It Already Has 8.2 on IMDb

After three years of waiting, the second season of Hell's Paradise: Jigokuraku has returned to screens, instantly confirming its status as one of the most spectacular and violent anime hits of modern times.

The explosive and uncompromising first episode proves that the creators haven't lost their winning formula.

What Is 'Hell's Paradise' About?

Gabimaru, an invincible ninja criminal who is immune to all executions, is offered a chance at pardon by the shogun. He must travel with a group of hardened criminals and their guards to a mysterious, legendary island and retrieve the elixir of immortality.

However, the "paradise" turns out to be a hellish place inhabited by tensens, immortal beings of divine beauty who possess a deadly essence.

The first season focuses on survival and unraveling the island's terrifying secret: the elixir is made from the life force of people who transform into flowers. The characters discover the deities' weaknesses, but this knowledge comes at an incredible price.

Yes, the Insanely Popular BABYMETAL Made This Catchy Opening for Season 2

The opening theme, "Kasuka na Hana," is a powerful collaboration between the iconic metal band BABYMETAL and the singer Tatsuya Kitani, who is known for his work on the Jujutsu Kaisen soundtrack.

The animated opening sequence is impeccable, vibrant and dynamic, and filled with hints of the battles to come and the characters' internal conflicts.

The legendary band Queen Bee was invited to perform the ending theme. Their melancholy track, "PERSONAL," immerses the protagonist in his feelings of guilt and doubt, creating the perfect emotional contrast.

'Hell's Paradise' Season 2 Is Still One of the Best New Shonen Series Around

The season premiered without a hitch, picking up the story right where it left off. Studio MAPPA's animation quality remains top-notch – the fight scenes are masterfully choreographed, with every sword strike and body movement executed with cinematic detail.

However, Hell's Paradise's strength lies beyond its action scenes. It's a smart shonen that balances philosophical reflections on life, death, and the nature of sacrifice with the unraveling of the complex mythology of a labyrinthine island.

At the center of it all is Gabimaru's motivation: he fights not for immortality, but for the right to return to his wife, the only light in his dark life.

The new season adds intrigue: Gabimaru's memory falters, and his past is called into question. New groups of elixir seekers emerge, and upcoming battles with the remaining tensen loom on the horizon.

What Did Viewers Think of 'Hell's Paradise' Season 2?

Reddit user xignal wrote:

“Glad that its back and its a banger of an episode already! Sad that this will likely be overshadowed by JJK, and its clear where mappa's budget / A team is focusing on. Despite that, its is still a well animated first episode.”

• Hell's Paradise Season 2 Episode 1 has a score of 8.2/10 on IMDb.

Where to Watch 'Hell's Paradise' Season 2?

Hell's Paradise Season 2 is available to stream on Crunchyroll.