View source for Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor

{{Short description|Japanese anime television series}}
{{good article}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2021}}
{{Infobox animanga/Header
|image           = DtBGotM key visual.png
|caption         = Cover art with [[List of Darker than Black characters#Suo Pavlichenko|Suo Pavlichenko]] (front) and [[Hei (Darker than Black)|Hei]] (background)
|ja_kanji        = Darker Than Black ー流星の双子ー
|ja_romaji       = Dākā Zan Burakku ーRyūsei no Jeminiー
|genre           = {{ubl|[[Action fiction|Action]]<ref name="about"/>|[[Science fiction]]<ref name="about"/>|[[Supernatural fiction|Supernatural]]<ref name="about"/>}}<!-- Genres should be based on what reliable sources list them as and not on personal interpretations. Limit of the three most relevant genres in accordance with [[MOS:A&M]]. -->
|creator         = {{ubl|[[Bones (studio)|Bones]]|[[Tensai Okamura]]}}
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
|type            = tv series
|title           = 
|director        = Tensai Okamura
|producer        = {{ubl|Hiroo Maruyama|Ryou Ooyama||Yoshihiro Ooyabu}}
|writer          = {{ubl|Tensai Okamura|[[Hiroyuki Yoshino (screenwriter)|Hiroyuki Yoshino]]|[[Mari Okada]]|Shinsuke Oonishi|[[Shōtarō Suga]]}}
|music           = [[Yasushi Ishii]]
|studio          = Bones
|licensee        = {{English anime licensee|NA=[[Funimation]] (expired)|UK=[[Manga Entertainment]]|AU=[[Madman Entertainment]]}}
|network         = [[Japan News Network|JNN]] ([[MBS TV|MBS]], [[TBS Television (Japan)|TBS]])
|first           = 9 October 2009
|last            = 25 December 2009
|episodes        = 12
|episode_list    = List of Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor episodes
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Footer|portal=yes}}

{{nihongo|'''''Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor'''''|Darker Than Black ー流星の双子ー|Dākā Zan Burakku ーRyūsei no Jeminiー|lead=yes}} is a Japanese [[anime]] series directed by [[Tensai Okamura]] and produced by the [[Bones (studio)|Bones]] studio. It is a sequel to the 2007 series ''[[Darker than Black]]'', and most of the crew returned for the production. The series premiered on [[MBS TV|MBS]], [[TBS Television (Japan)|TBS]] and their affiliated stations on 8 October 2009.<ref name="Onair">{{cite web|url=http://www.d-black.net/onair/index.html|title=放送情報 DARKER THAN BLACK 流星の双子|language=Japanese|access-date=2009-10-09|archive-date=17 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090917184651/http://www.d-black.net/onair/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref>  The sequel follows [[Suo Pavlichenko]], a Eurasian girl whose life is changed by a frightening incident surrounding a meteor shower, and her encounter with the assassin [[Hei (Darker than Black)|Hei]]; the man is searching for her twin, [[List of Darker than Black characters#Shion Pavlichenko|Shion]], and his missing partner [[List of Darker than Black characters#Yin|Yin]].

The series, conceived by Okamura, was inspired by his ''[[Soul Eater (manga)|Soul Eater]]'' series. Okamura created the heroine Suo, and asked for help from the writers, particularly [[Mari Okada]], in presenting the character to an increasingly-female audience. The series was gathered in on DVD and Blu-ray format in Japan with [[original video animation]]s that explain the event that occur between both ''Darker than Black series'', ''[[Darker than Black: Gaiden|Gaiden]]''.<ref name="first">{{cite web|url=http://www.d-black.net/2nd/package/pack02.html|title=DARKER THAN BLACK ― 流星の双子 ― 2|publisher=D-Black|language=Japanese|access-date=22 June 2014|archive-date=28 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328204747/http://www.d-black.net/2nd/package/pack02.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The series and OVAs were released in North America by [[Funimation]], by [[Manga Entertainment]] in the United Kingdom, and by [[Madman Entertainment]] in Australia.
 
''Gemini of the Meteor''{{'s}} storyline received a mixed response by the media for its handling of the now-darker Hei; the audience does not know according to the reviews what changed his characterization unless it saw ''Darker than Black: Gaiden''. Its plot development and action scenes were praised for retaining the original ''Darker than Black''{{'s}} appeal. Suo was considered a suitable protagonist, not only for her role in the series but also because her relationship with Hei. Original composer [[Yoko Kanno]] was replaced by [[Yasushi Ishii]], and critics were divided about which composer was more entertaining. The musical themes and the inclusion of original video animations in the English-language release were well received.

==Plot==
[[File:015 - Wladiwostok 2015 (23798053544).jpg|thumb|alt=A crowded city square, with cars and pedestrians|Early episodes are set in Vladivostok, which Bones researched for its animation.|left]]
The series follows [[Suo Pavlichenko]]: a young Eurasian girl from [[Vladivostok]] who lives with her father, Dr. Mikhail Pavlichenko, and her twin brother [[List of Darker than Black characters#Shion Pavlichenko|Shion]]. Before the series' start, Shion developed supernatural powers which turned him into a calm Contractor but put him in a wheelchair. An assassin Contractor known as [[Hei (Darker than Black)|Hei]] attacks their house, killing Mikhail and attacking Suo (whom he mistakes for Shion) on a mission to retrieve a remnant of a supernatural stone. Suo escapes from Hei, and publicizes a photograph revealing his location. The [[Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications]]'s Section 3, also seeking the missing Shion, briefly fight Hei. Hei defeats Section 3, but is trapped in an area which neutralizes his Contractor powers. Suo sees a meteor explosion, and has a vision of a younger Hei running towards [[List of Darker than Black characters#Yin|Yin]]. Mao (a former ally of Hei) rescues Suo, and they escape from Section 3.

Hei decides to train Suo to defend, and she becomes a Contractor, though she still retains her humanity, unwilling to kill anybody. Hei brings Mao and a former [[Secret Intelligence Service]] agent code-named [[List of Darker than Black characters#July|July]] to Tokyo to find Shion and Yin, who has become a killer. On the trip Hei bonds with Shion, who decides to follow his lead if he does not have to kill anyone and Hei stops drinking. They are tricked by an informant into nearly killing Yin, who was sealed in a machine. Suo learns from her mother in Tokyo that she is a copy of the original Suo, who died in a meteor explosion years ago and Shion used his powers to create another Suo. Shion created a copy of their father, who was killed by Hei. Shion is known by several organizations as Izanagi, the counterpart of Izanami which has possessed Yin; Izanagi and Izanami must not be reunited as it might lead to an apocalyptic event. Suo reunites with her real father, who then dies in an encounter with Section 3 soldiers. Hei kidnaps a scientist from Section 3 to learn Yin's whereabouts.

In the series finale, Hei is spared by Section 3 because they need him to kill Izanami. Suo reunites with Shion, who has used all his lifespan to create a replica of the earth so Izanami's victims can live a normal life. After Shion dies, Izanami erases Suo's mind; Hei stops her from killing Izanami in self-defense, and comforts her until her memories are erased. Hei then recovers his Contractor powers and confronts Izanami; Yin wants Hei to kill her. And then Suo's mind is transported to Shion's alternate world, where she can live a normal life with July. Hei and the rest of Section 3 protect Izanami from American forces after they launch a military operation to secure the [[Greater Tokyo Area]] for the U.S. Hei is last seen walking with Yin's body; her fate is ambiguous, although director [[Tensai Okamura]] suggested that it might be tragic.<ref name="okamura">{{cite web|url=https://ryobben.at.webry.info/201001/article_7.html|title=DARKER THAN BLACK 2期|access-date=21 July 2021|website=Ryobben|archive-date=12 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712005554/https://ryobben.at.webry.info/201001/article_7.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Production==
{{multiple image
 | footer    = While Tensai Okamura returned to direct ''Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor'', writer Mari Okada was in charge of several episodes to appeal to the female audience.
 | image1    = Tensai Okamura 20071102 Chibi Japan Expo.jpg
 | alt1      = A bespectacled Tensai Okamura, wearing an orange cap
 | caption1  =
 | width1    = 166
 | image2    = Mari_Okada_岡田_麿里_AFA_2011_Stage_Events.jpg
 | alt2      = A smiling, waving Mari Okada
 | caption2  =
 | width2    = 210
|align=left
}}
The series was first hinted by the [[Bones (studio)|Bones']] staff in July 2008.<ref name="ann1">{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-01-11/new-fullmetal-alchemist-anime-staff-confirmed|title=New Fullmetal Alchemist Anime's Staff Confirmed|website=[[Anime News Network]]|date=2009-01-11|access-date=2009-02-15|archive-date=2019-05-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190520183536/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-01-11/new-fullmetal-alchemist-anime-staff-confirmed|url-status=live}}</ref> In a statement on Bones' website, co-founder and president [[Masahiko Minami]] said "It hasn't been decided yet. We are interested in doing them. As original science-fiction works, they were extremely fascinating. With these kinds of dramatic story lines, I feel that there's a lot we could do potentially."<ref name="ann2">{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-07-06/bones-studio-addresses-allegedly-leaked-document|title=Bones Studio Addresses Allegedly Leaked Document|website=[[Anime News Network]]|date=2008-07-06|access-date=2008-07-06|archive-date=2008-07-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080708010025/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-07-06/bones-studio-addresses-allegedly-leaked-document|url-status=live}}</ref> The second ''Darker than Black'' series was confirmed in the 12th issue of [[Square Enix]]'s ''[[Young Gangan]]'' magazine in June 2009,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-06-03/darker-than-black-tv-anime-sequel-green-lit|title=Darker than Black Tv Anime Sequel Green-Lit|website=[[Anime News Network]]|date=2009-06-03|access-date=2009-06-03|archive-date=2009-06-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090606053235/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-06-03/darker-than-black-tv-anime-sequel-green-lit|url-status=live}}</ref> and its first trailer appeared in August in that year.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-08-09/darker-than-black/ryusei-no-gemini-promo-streamed|title=Darker Than Black: Ryūsei no Gemini's Promos Streamed (Updated)|website=[[Anime News Network]]|date=9 August 2009|access-date=24 July 2021|archive-date=25 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125010635/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-08-09/darker-than-black/ryusei-no-gemini-promo-streamed|url-status=live}}</ref>

In ''Gemini of the Meteor'', Okamura considered diverging from the previous season.<ref>{{cite book|script-title=ja:DARKER THAN BLACK-流星の双子- OFFICIAL FANBOOK 三鷹文書分析報告|publisher=Square Enix|year=2010|isbn=9784757529854|language=ja}}</ref> Okamura, who found the first series' narrative confusing and rough, wanted to change the series' tone; Suo was created in contrast to Hei. Okamura hoped that the changes would appeal to new viewers, who would then understand the first season.<ref name="ann">{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/feature/2017-08-09/interview-tensai-okamura/.119921|title=Interview: Tensai Okamura|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=6 July 2021|archive-date=2021-07-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709191942/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/feature/2017-08-09/interview-tensai-okamura/.119921|url-status=live}}</ref> The sequel added new science-fiction elements, such as the alternate world where Suo lives.<ref name="okamura"/> A Vladivostok high school model was designed as a building for the series.<ref name="ending">{{cite web|url=https://thetv.jp/news/detail/14181/|title=花澤香菜は妖精だった!?「DARKER THAN BLACK」イベントで発覚|website=10 August 2021|access-date=11 August 2021|archive-date=11 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210811000335/https://thetv.jp/news/detail/14181/|url-status=live}}</ref>

For the second season, the production committee provided 12 episodes and four OVAs. Okamura wanted more scope and a different style; he wanted the protagonist to be a girl after reading the ''Darker than Black'' manga. When he helped draw the storyboard for ''[[Soul Eater (manga)|Soul Eater]]'', he was attracted to the concept of a little girl with a giant weapon. Bones obtained [[Mari Okada]] and [[Hiroyuki Yoshino (screenwriter)|Hiroyuki Yoshino]] as new writers to form a writing team which shared ideas together and used their strengths. There was no head writer, although it had been originally decided that Yoshino would take the role. The four OVAs were made for returning fans who wanted to see what happened after the first series, and became a series complementing ''Gemini of the Meteor''. Due to Okada's experience with ''[[shōjo manga]]'', the series targeted a female demographic and she was put in charge of several episodes because Suo was the new protagonist. Okamura was behind Shion's creation of a replica planet.<ref>{{cite book|title=Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor Blu-ray booklet|publisher=Aniplex |year=2014}}</ref> Hei's design was altered in ''Gemini of the Meteor'' in the form of longer hair and facial hair which Okamura enjoyed. However, this appearance was not popular within the female staff members. By the ninth episode, it was decided to revise Hei's design again under the hands of animator Hitomi Nadashima who animated such scene of Hei changing his look. Yin, originally a minor character from the first series, was found fit to be center of attention by the director for the narrative, representing the Dolls presented across the two series.<ref name="secondfanbook">{{cite book|title=DARKER THAN BLACK-流星の双子- OFFICIAL FANBOOK 三鷹文書分析報告|publisher=Square Enix|year=2010|isbn=9784757529854}}</ref>

Although there were only two years between both ''Darker than Black'' series, Hei's voice actor [[Hidenobu Kiuchi]] found the character challenging because of his personality change.<ref name="navi">{{cite web|url=https://news.mynavi.jp/article/20090919-dtbg/|title=新キャラクターの参戦でさらに深まる謎 - TVアニメ『DARKER THAN BLACK -流星の双子-』、2009年10月スタート|website=News My Navi|date=19 September 2009|access-date=10 August 2021|archive-date=11 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210811002950/https://news.mynavi.jp/article/20090919-dtbg/|url-status=live}}</ref> Kiuchi felt that Hei was a far darker character due to an unknown incident. The actor said that Hei is notably strict with younger lead Suo Pavlichenko, and he wished that the character would eventually exhibit more caring behavior to the teenager. Kiuchi called Hei one of his favorite roles, and hoped that the audience to look forward to ''Gemini of the Meteor''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animatetimes.com/news/details.php?id=1254206867|title=「契約者」と呼ばれる超能力者たちの戦い！ 人気を博した「黒の契約者」に続く新シリーズ。『DARKER THAN BLACK －流星の双子（ジェミニ）－』アフレコ取材|website=Animate Times|access-date=10 August 2021|archive-date=16 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716184220/https://www.animatetimes.com/news/details.php?id=1254206867|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Kana Hanazawa]] felt that Suo's love for her family is the strongest part of her character. Every time Hanazawa received a script, she looked forward to enjoying the experience. [[Nana Mizuki]] returned as Misaki Kirihara, whom she found warmer than in the ''Darker than Black'' series; she compared Hei to [[Arsène Lupin]].<ref name="navi"/>

===Music===
{{main|Music of Darker than Black}}
The soundtrack for ''Gemini of the Meteor'' was released in Japan on 23 December 2009, by [[Aniplex]]. Its twenty tracks include short versions of the opening and closing themes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sonymusicshop.jp/m/item/itemShw.php?site=S&ima=2639&cd=SVWC000007670|title=DARKER THAN BLACK -流星の双子- オリジナル・サウンドトラック|website=Sony|access-date=17 July 2021|archive-date=17 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717143109/https://www.sonymusicshop.jp/m/item/itemShw.php?site=S&ima=2639&cd=SVWC000007670|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Yasushi Ishii]] replaced Kanno on the sequel and the OVAs, and considers ''Darker than Black'' and ''[[Hellsing]]'' his favorite works.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.balticasia.lt/en/straipsniai/muzika/jazz-loaded-gunshot-interview-with-yasushi-ishii-remigijus-rancys/|title=Jazz-Loaded Gunshot – Interview with Yasushi Ishii & Remigijus Rančys|website=Balticasia|date=2 November 2015 |access-date=23 July 2021|archive-date=24 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210724003520/https://www.balticasia.lt/en/straipsniai/muzika/jazz-loaded-gunshot-interview-with-yasushi-ishii-remigijus-rancys/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ishii described the second season as like the darkness before the dawn, a harsh battlefield, and used hard rock, electronic and experimental music in the soundtrack.<ref name="secondfanbook"/>

The series' opening theme ({{Nihongo|"[[Tsukiakari no Michishirube]]"|ツキアカリのミチシルベ||lit. "Guidepost of the Moonlight"}}) is sung by the Japanese rock band [[Stereopony]], who said that it evokes everyday anxiety and despair.<ref name="Music">{{cite web|url=http://www.d-black.net/music/index.html|title=Official Darker than Black: Ryūsei no Gemini Music Page|access-date=2009-10-10|language=Japanese|archive-date=17 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090917175903/http://www.d-black.net/music/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The closing theme ("From Dusk Till Dawn") is performed by [[Abingdon Boys School]], who had played the opening theme for ''Darker than Black''. According to vocalist [[Takanori Nishikawa]], the closing theme expresses great affection in a short time.<ref name="Music"/> Both "Tsukiakari no Michishirube" and "From Dusk Till Dawn" were popular with the former appearing in [[Oricon]] rankings,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/461570/products/840439/1/|title=ステレオポニー|website=Oricon|access-date=24 August 2021|archive-date=24 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210824155055/https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/461570/products/840439/1/|url-status=live}}</ref> while the latter sold 22,923 copies in Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-12-28/yamato-darker-than-black-shugo-chara-cds-in-top-10|title=Yamato, Darker than Black, Shugo Chara CDs in Top 10|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=24 July 2021|date=28 December 2009|archive-date=27 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127111122/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-12-28/yamato-darker-than-black-shugo-chara-cds-in-top-10|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Release===
{{See also|List of Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor episodes}}
The series began to be released on [[DVD]] and [[Blu-ray]] by [[Aniplex]] in Japan on 23 December 2009, in an estimated eight volumes; the final volume was released on 21 July 2010.<ref name="jRelease1">{{cite web|url=http://www.d-black.net/2nd/package/pack01.html|title=DARKER THAN BLACK ― 流星の双子 ― 1|publisher=D-Black|language=Japanese|access-date=22 June 2014|archive-date=28 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328204252/http://www.d-black.net/2nd/package/pack01.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="BD 8">{{cite web|url=http://www.d-black.net/2nd/package/pack08.html|title=DARKER THAN BLACK ― 流星の双子 ― 8|publisher=D-Black|language=Japanese|access-date=22 June 2014|archive-date=30 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530195954/http://www.d-black.net/2nd/package/pack08.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Each odd-numbered volume contains two series episodes; an [[Original video animation|OVA]] episode, known as ''[[Darker than Black: Gaiden]]'', was released with one series episode in each even-numbered volume. The four OVA episodes are side-stories about the main characters, Hei and his partner [[List of Darker than Black characters#Yin|Yin]], set between the two seasons. Hei's backstory is told, and the awakening of Yin's alter ego is explored.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.d-black.net/package/index.html|title=パッケージ情報 DARKER THAN BLACK 流星の双子|language=Japanese|access-date=2009-10-09|archive-date=12 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091012011136/http://www.d-black.net/package/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> A Blu-ray box set was released on 15 January 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B00GDFHIGA/|title=DARKER THAN BLACK -流星の双子-Blu-ray BOX(完全生産限定版)|website=Amazon.com|access-date=14 August 2021}}</ref>

On 2 July 2010, Funimation announced at [[Anime Expo]] that it had licensed the second season.<ref>{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2010-07-02/funi-adds-live-action-moyashimon|title=Funi Adds Live Action Moyashimon Live Action, More|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|date=2010-07-02|access-date=2010-07-03|archive-date=2019-05-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190509152632/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2010-07-02/funi-adds-live-action-moyashimon|url-status=live}}</ref> Funimation released the series on DVD and Blu-ray on 8 November 2011.<ref>{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|title=Funimation Delays Darker Than Black Season 2 by 3 Weeks|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2011-09-29/funimation-delays-darker-than-black-season-2-by-3-weeks|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=16 July 2021|date=29 September 2011|archive-date=15 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415204812/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2011-09-29/funimation-delays-darker-than-black-season-2-by-3-weeks|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Madman Entertainment]] released the series as a compilation in Australia on 14 December 2011, and [[Manga Entertainment]] in the United Kingdom on 26 December of that year.<ref>{{cite AV media|title=Darker Than Black - Gemini of The Meteor ''Season 2''|publisher=[[Manga Entertainment]]|type=DVD|id={{ASIN|B006BY3DYE|country=uk}}}}</ref><ref name="genre">{{cite web|url=http://www.madman.com.au/catalogue/view/15362/darker-than-black-season-2-ovas-collection-bluray|title=Darker than Black Season 2 + Ovas|website=Madman Entertainment|access-date=16 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419201927/http://www.madman.com.au/catalogue/view/15361/darker-than-black-season-2-ovas-collection|archive-date=19 April 2012}}</ref> The series was re-released on 12 May 2015, by Funimation,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Brina-Palencia/dp/B00TQGGLFW/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_es_US=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&dchild=1&keywords=Darker+Than+Black%3A+Season+2&qid=1629668967&sr=8-1|title=Darker Than Black: Season 2 Blu-ray|website=Amazon.com|access-date=12 August 2021}}</ref> whose rights to the second season expired in 2018.<ref>{{cite web|last=Mateo|first=Alex|title=Funimation's Darker Than Black Season 2 License Expires|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/daily-briefs/2018-08-08/funimation-darker-than-black-season-2-license-expires/.135241|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=9 July 2021|date=8 August 2018|archive-date=23 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210123115806/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/daily-briefs/2018-08-08/funimation-darker-than-black-season-2-license-expires/.135241|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Reception==
[[File:DarkerthanBlackfinaleGemini.png|thumb|alt=Screenshot of Hei carrying Yin, seen from behind|Hei and Yin's lack of closure was criticized by the media for leaving the story a cliffhanger, with no explanation of whether or not Hei killed his friend.]]
The home-media releases, including the Blu-ray box set,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-01-21/japan-animation-blu-ray-disc-ranking-january-13-19|title=Japan's Animation Blu-ray Disc Ranking, January 13–19|date=21 January 2014|access-date=16 August 2021|archive-date=18 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018051000/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-01-21/japan-animation-blu-ray-disc-ranking-january-13-19|url-status=live}}</ref> were successful in Japan.<ref>{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2010-06-05/japan-animation-blu-ray-disc-ranking-may-24-30|title=Japan's Animation Blu-ray Disc Ranking, May 24–30|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=9 July 2021|date=5 June 2010|archive-date=25 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125073938/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2010-06-05/japan-animation-blu-ray-disc-ranking-may-24-30|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-12-29/japan-animation-dvd-ranking-december-21-27|title=Japan's Animation DVD Ranking, December 21–27 (Updated)|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=16 August 2021|archive-date=25 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025225720/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-12-29/japan-animation-dvd-ranking-december-21-27|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2010-02-02/japan-animation-dvd-ranking-january-25-31|title=Japan's Animation DVD Ranking, January 25–31|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=16 August 2021|archive-date=8 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008193207/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2010-02-02/japan-animation-dvd-ranking-january-25-31|url-status=live}}</ref> In preparation for ''Gemini of Meteor'', Theron Martin of ''[[Anime News Network]]'' and ''Fandom Post'' suggested first watching the original video animation ''Gaiden'' to explore Hei and Yin's relationship and how Hei became a depressed alcoholic after losing Yin.<ref name="fandompostuk">{{cite web |first=Bryan |last=Morton |url=https://www.fandompost.com/2011/12/14/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-complete-series-uk-anime-dvd-review/ |title=Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor Complete Series UK Anime DVD Review |website=Fandom Post |date=14 Dec 2011 |access-date=22 August 2021 |archive-date=4 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604110111/https://www.fandompost.com/2011/12/14/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-complete-series-uk-anime-dvd-review/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Hei has often been regarded as a surprisingly dark character.<ref name="activeanime">{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111228023535/http://activeanime.com/html/2011/12/27/darket-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-the-complete-second-season/|url=http://activeanime.com/html/2011/12/27/darket-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-the-complete-second-season/|title=DARKER THAN BLACK – GEMINI OF THE METEOR THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON|website=ActiveAnime|access-date=29 July 2021|archive-date=28 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="about">{{cite web|last=Yegulalp|first=Serdar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116095733/http://anime.about.com/od/darkerthanblack/fr/Darker-Than-Black-Season-Two.htm|url=http://anime.about.com/od/darkerthanblack/fr/Darker-Than-Black-Season-Two.htm|title=Darker Than Black: Season Two|website=About.com|access-date=29 July 2021|archive-date=16 January 2013}}</ref> Suo has been seen as an appealing protagonist, cheerful and bright despite her chaotic history.<ref name="meteor"/><ref name="fandom"/><ref name="capsule">{{cite web|url=http://www.capsulecomputers.com.au/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-review/|title=Darker Than Black: Gemini of the Meteor Review|access-date=18 August 2021|website=Capsule Monsters|date=5 November 2011|archive-date=19 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210819010119/http://www.capsulecomputers.com.au/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> Although Hei mentors Suo, Martin found that she makes Hei superfluous.<ref name="meteor">{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/darker-than-black/season-2+ovas-limited-edition/blu-ray+dvd|title=Darker Than Black: Season 2 + OVAs (Limited Edition)|date=14 December 2011|access-date=7 July 2021|archive-date=25 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125173041/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/darker-than-black/season-2+ovas-limited-edition/blu-ray+dvd|url-status=live}}</ref> ''The Fandom Post'' also found Hei a less-appealing character than Suou, noting that Hei makes fewer appearances in the sequels.<ref name="fandom">{{cite web|url=https://www.fandompost.com/2013/07/02/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-blu-ray-anime-review/|title=Darker Than Black Gemini Of The Meteor Blu-ray Anime Review|website=The Fandom Post|date=2 July 2013 |access-date=7 July 2021|archive-date=20 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180720072910/https://www.fandompost.com/2013/07/02/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-blu-ray-anime-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Comic Book Bin'' compared them with the leads in the 1994 film ''[[Léon: The Professional]]'', due to the bond they form while training.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.comicbookbin.com/Darker_Than_Black325.html|title=Darker Than Black Gemni of the Meteor|website=Comic Book Bin|access-date=22 August 2021|author=Zimmerman, Chris|date=31 January 2012|archive-date=22 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210822034816/http://www.comicbookbin.com/Darker_Than_Black325.html|url-status=live}}</ref> According to ''Anime UK News'', the narrative progressed well thanks to its action sprinkled with comedy.<ref name="animeuknews"/> An ''Active Anime'' reviewer said that the series retained most of the prequel's appealing features, including Hei and Suo's many problems and the buildup to an apocalyptic prophecy.<ref name="activeanime"/> ''[[DVD Talk]]'' said that although Okamura animated major action scenes, the narrative was hard for new viewers to follow and the director's deep themes were wasted.<ref name="dvdtalkmetor">{{cite web|url=https://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/review/67680|title=Darker Than Black: Gemini of the Meteor (Season 2 + OVA)|website=DVD Talk|access-date=8 July 2021|archive-date=9 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709190647/https://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/review/67680|url-status=live}}</ref> Hei and Suo's rocky relationship upset a ''Fandom Post'' reviewer, as Hei attacks Suo's family; the OVAs help explore Hei's downfall during his journey with Yin, although he remains an action hero. The review praised the dark plot and its many twists involving Suo.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fandompost.com/2012/04/10/darker-than-black-season-2-ovas-complete-series-anime-dvd-review/|title=Darker Than Black Season 2 + OVAs Complete Series Anime DVD Review|website=The Fandom Post|access-date=7 July 2021|archive-date=3 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210703083625/https://www.fandompost.com/2012/04/10/darker-than-black-season-2-ovas-complete-series-anime-dvd-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[About.com]]'' also enjoyed the plot twists, but found the series' short length disappointing; however, the action scenes and narrative were as appealing as ''Darker than Black''.<ref name="about"/> According to ''The Anime Encyclopedia, 3rd Revised Edition: A Century of Japanese Animation'', ''Gemini of the Meteor'' is as consistent as its prequel and ''Gaiden'' and is an outstanding trilogy.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Anime Encyclopedia, 3rd Revised Edition: A Century of Japanese Animation|author=McCarthy, Helen; Clements Jonathan|year=2015|isbn=978-1611720181|publisher=Stone Bridge Press}}</ref>

Although Suo's story ends in the finale, Hei's journey remains undefined.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.uk-anime.net/Anime/Darker_than_Black:_Gemini_of_the_Meteor.html|title=Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor|website=UK Anime Network|access-date=7 August 2021|archive-date=7 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210807221118/https://www.uk-anime.net/Anime/Darker_than_Black:_Gemini_of_the_Meteor.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="meteor"/> According to [[Crunchyroll]] and ''Anime News Network'', fans wanted a new season of the series after the end of ''Gemini of the Meteor'' and were disappointed when [[SNK]] used its series rights to make a [[pachinko]] instead.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.crunchyroll.com/es/anime-news/2012/11/14/darker-than-black-vuelve-como-mquina-de-pachinko|title=Darker Than Black vuelve… como máquina de pachinko|website=Crunchyroll|access-date=18 July 2021|archive-date=19 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210719002206/https://www.crunchyroll.com/es/anime-news/2012/11/14/darker-than-black-vuelve-como-mquina-de-pachinko|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-list/2014-05-31/.75037|title=7 Frustrating Anime Cliffhangers|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=20 July 2021|date=31 May 2014|archive-date=20 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720214150/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-list/2014-05-31/.75037|url-status=live}}</ref> An ''Active Anime'' review said that although the ending resolved most of the series' questions, it left some unanswered.<ref name="activeanime"/> [[Hidenobu Kiuchi]], Hei's Japanese voice actor, asked fans in 2010 if they would enjoy a new ''Darker than Black'' anime after ''Gemini of the Meteor''; they said they would.<ref name="ending"/> In the ''[[Animage]]''{{'}}s [[Anime Grand Prix]] awards from 2009, ''Gemini of the Meteor'' was listed as the 10th best series of the year.<ref>{{cite journal | journal=[[Animage]] | publisher=[[Gakken]] |issue=384| title=Anime Grand Prix 32| date=June 2010| language=ja}}</ref>

[[Yasushi Ishii]]'s score in the sequel was praised with "From Dusk Till Dawn", the closing theme by Abingdon Boys School.<ref name="meteor"/><ref>{{cite web|last=Wolf|first=Ian|url=https://animeuknews.net/2012/05/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-season-2-and-ova/|title=Darker Than Black: Gemini of the Meteor (Season 2 and OVA)|website=Anime UK News|date=11 May 2012 |access-date=10 July 2021|archive-date=10 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210710134101/https://animeuknews.net/2012/05/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-season-2-and-ova/|url-status=live}}</ref> However, ''DVD Talk'' found Ishii's score inferior to [[Yoko Kanno]]'s in the first series.<ref name="dvdtalkmetor"/> In an ''Anime News Network'' poll, "[[Tsukiakari no Michishirube]]" was one of 2009's best opening themes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-set-list/2015-06-23/.89586|title=The Set List Top 10 EDs of 2009|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=18 July 2021|archive-date=25 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210725163646/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-set-list/2015-06-23/.89586|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Active Anime'' agreed, but found Kanno's score superior to Isshi's.<ref name="activeanime"/> The English-language cast was thought superior to the original Japanese cast;<ref name="dvdtalkmetor"/> ''Anime News Network'' noted that [[Alison Viktorin]] was realistic as a teenager despite her age.<ref name="meteor"/> Hanazawa's performance as Suo was also well received by fans.<ref name="ending"/> ''Capsule Monsters'' found both language versions enjoyable, and praised the soundtrack for accommodating a variety of scenes.<ref name="capsule"/> According to a ''Fandom Post'' review, viewers might be put off by the talkiness of the Japanese version.<ref name="fandompostuk"/> An ''Anime UK News'' reviewer enjoyed the soundtrack and "From Dusk Till Dawn".<ref name="animeuknews">{{cite web|url=https://animeuknews.net/2012/05/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-season-2-and-ova/|title=Darker Than Black: Gemini of the Meteor (Season 2 and OVA)|website=Anime UK News|date=11 May 2012|access-date=7 August 2021|archive-date=10 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210710134101/https://animeuknews.net/2012/05/darker-than-black-gemini-of-the-meteor-season-2-and-ova/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==References==
;General
*{{cite web|url=http://www.d-black.net/2nd/onair/index.html|title=Darker than Black's Story Page|access-date=2009-10-28|language=Japanese}}

;Footnotes
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.d-black.net/ Official anime website] {{in lang|ja}}
*{{Anime News Network|anime|10984|noparen=true}}

{{Darker than Black}}
{{Tensai Okamura}}
{{Bones (studio)}}

[[Category:Darker than Black]]
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