Ergo Proxy

     What is an Ergo Proxy? Lets take a closer look at the title from a 'linguistical' standpoint. "Ergo", gets its roots from Latin, meaning "therefore". You've probably heard of the saying, "I think, therefore I am" coined by René Descartes; it's a phrase used as a proof for one's very own existence. How is this relevant? The idiom in latin is, "cogito ergo sum". Now, as for "proxy", which you probably familiarize with computer I.P addresses, but its actual definition is "A person authorized to act for another; an agent or substitute." (from www.thefreedictionary.com). When combining the two you get "Therefore, substitute". The word substitute, replacing "I am". Assuming the title, Ergo Proxy, is related to René Descartes' logistical proof.
     However in Ergo Proxy, "proxy" refers to a monstrous looking creature. It's origins and it's purpose are shrouded in mystery. In the domed city of Romdeau there seems to be a cover-up by the government hidden in the mist of it all. Re-L first catches glimpse of it while investigating a murder case. From there on she's obsessed in finding the truth. Her auto-rave (also referred to as a companion and entourage)Iggy that is customized to serve her, tags along in her ventures.
     They come across Vincent Law, who is an immigrant from the outside the dome. The lifestyle for immigrants is similar to that of a serf. They're allowed to live amongst the community as long as they're serving the citizens. Doing enough good will eventually grant you citizenship. Though Vincent does everything that's wanted of an immigrant, there's an unexplainable correlation between him and the proxy sightings. He always just happens to be around when it shows up. Coincidence or not, the ones investigating become suspicious who Vincent Law really is.
     It can't be solved with a simple open ended question. Vincent seems to be suffering from amnesia and cannot remember his past. As far back as he can remember is that he is from the city of Mosk which was destroyed. The only one who understands Vincent is a curious auto-rave named, Pino.

     The pacing is a bit slow(3-filler episodes), but this anime will keep you watching. I like the fact that there are some mysteries in Ergo Proxy that you can solve before they present the answer to you on screen. The producers didn't aim to make Re-L and Vincent likable, which personalities distinct from other animation. And just like in Ghost in the Shell, the human-like androids ars on a fence straddling human and non-human. If you're into dark, gloomy, philosophical anime, then this is one you want to make room for.