Review: Adepta Sororitas: Penitence

Overview:

Warhammer TV has released its latest mini-series, Adepta Sororitas: Penitence. The story revolves around a squad of Battle Sisters from the Order of the Sacred Rose as they fight to protect a holy relic.

Our Take:

Fans have already been excited to see a new animated feature from Warhammer, and we’re already excited in late February when the series debuted its first episode, “Covenant.” Things start out with a bang, with the Sisters on a mission to bring holy relics, the remains of a fallen sister, to a pilgrimage site. However, the site is haunted by Orkish forces, the Kommandos, who attack their transport. The survivors of the crash must conspire to continue their mission and deliver the relics to their final home. As they lead their fallen sisters to rest, they soon find themselves conspiring against the Orks, with many scheming to escape their world. Meanwhile, the survivors also have to deal with the ghosts of their past. As one especially seeks atonement, viewers will realize why this series is subtitled, “Penitence.” However, despite all of this, the Sisters will prove themselves to be a close group.

While the first episode introduces us to the three main characters, Venthia, Ludmilla, and Saragoza, it already boasts a lot of character development and growth. However, it still teases what is to come, as we learn why one Sister is searching to redeem herself. This brings viewers to the second episode, “Revelation.” Things start out with the Sisters having to deal with an ash storm. Complicating things further, the three are soon knocked out in an attack, with Venthia having visions of a figure in blue light, only for it to be connected to the relics. Fittingly, this story appears to focus on the power of faith. In addition, a big part of the story is also a reflection of what makes up true strength.

Meanwhile, a parallel plot comes to light, with one of the Orks wanting to leave the world like the others, while others think it is far more honorable to stay and fight. This helps add another theme to the story: the importance of duty and that there is a time and place to be honorable. Amid all this, fans are also given clues as to just what one of the Sisters wants atonement for.

By the third story, “Absolution,” the parallel between the Sisters and the Orks seems to give way to a study of contrasts when it comes to sacrifice, both honorable and senseless. However, one character, in their search for forgiveness, may learn the hard way that some penance is still left to be made.

The mini-series’ animation is extremely well-done, though one can argue that the style lends itself more to the Orks than the humanoid characters. The Kommandos are especially given unique and stylized designs. Outside of their armor, attention is also given to differentiate the Sisters, however, even giving them different accents. These little things help viewers imagine just how expansive the series’ universe could really be.

This series originally aired with episodes coming out around two weeks apart. Now that they have all been released, some viewers might prefer to watch them all in one swift go. Ultimately, while the story could have used a little more time to explore or introduce things, the series boasts plenty of action, even starting off with an explosion, but this all gives way to dark and introspective themes.