Extra Olympia Kyklos is, without a doubt, the most WTF anime I’ve seen lately. Strange, peculiar, delirious, and tremendously fun, this series is definitely not for everyone. My recommendation is to watch the first episode, which only lasts 5 minutes. If you don’t like it, at least you can tell your friends that you’ve seen something extremely weird with Greeks, clay animation, and dolphins. If you dare, what comes next may surprise you as much as it surprised me.
A surreal story with social critique (and dolphins)
Based on the manga by Mari Yamazaki, Extra Olympia Kyklos tells the story of Demetrio, a young vase painter from classical Greece who, by the grace of Zeus, is transported to Tokyo in the 1960s, just as the Olympics are being held. Unaware of what the Olympics are, Demetrio finds himself in absurd situations that unfold in a mix of history and comedy that confuses but also entertains.
The most remarkable aspect of the series is its very distinctive aesthetic. It deviates from conventional anime by using stop motion and clay animation, giving it a unique feel. This aesthetic is reminiscent of Terry Gilliam’s animations for Monty Python, lending it an originality that, while captivating many, can also puzzle others.
But Extra Olympia Kyklos is not just a historical comedy, it’s a full-fledged satire. Through Demetrio’s eyes, the series not only revisits the Olympics and Greek history, but also critiques modern perceptions of masculinity, femininity, and consumerism. Each episode blends absurd humor with historical references, creating a cocktail of entertainment that also invites reflection. Additionally, the stop motion animation not only serves as a unique visual style but also plays with the narrative’s pace. The visual chaos and unexpected twists in the story. If you fall for its proposal, it captivates you with dialogues and gags that never cease to surprise with their irreverence. It’s impossible not to think, “let’s see what crazy thing they come up with next.” And it never disappoints there.
This anime is not for everyone
Extra Olympia Kyklos probably won’t appeal to many people; it’s such a strange anime that it may not fit well with viewers looking for something more traditional. If you prefer deeper plots, complex characters, or epic action, this anime might be too eccentric for you. But if you enjoy the weird, the absurd, and the experimental, you’ll love it. And pay attention to the end credits, as each episode ends with a song that is the highlight of each episode.
The characters of Extra Olympia Kyklos, especially Demetrio, are the perfect vehicle for the delirious comedy that unfolds throughout the short episodes, making it one of the most original series in recent anime. If you like anime that breaks with conventions, Extra Olympia Kyklos deserves a chance. You can watch Extra Olympia Kyklos on Crunchyroll. If you’re looking for something different, this is a series that will make you think, laugh, and maybe even puzzle you.
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