If you’ve talked to me within the past two weeks, I’ve probably annoyed you about watching this show, although it’s not really a show. It’s an animated series, available on youtube. All you have to do is search up “ALIEN STAGE” and you’ll be brought up to a playlist. This playlist contains various short animations under a channel called “VIVINOS”, all ranging from 2-5 minutes.
The recommended order of watching is “Alien Stage”, which essentially sets the context and tone of the series. Followed by the rest of the rounds as well as the additional EPs in order. The series isn’t complete yet, with the recent release being “Wiege”, which was released on valentine’s day. So yes, my valentine’s day was ruined because of this episode’s release.
“ALIEN STAGE” follows the general premise of a dystopian future, where humans are pets, available for adoption by “Seygeins”, otherwise known as the aliens. The story follows the main cast of 6 characters, who fight for their lives on a singing show, the ALIEN STAGE.
It’s a pretty standard game show, except losers are shot on stage and die for the alien’s entertainment. Ouch.
Releases are generally between 2-6 months. It’s just VIVINOS and her girlfriend animating, so the episodes do take a while to be released, however, the music and the MVs are well worth the wait.
I don’t think I’m the same after watching Round 6.
So, that’s my little summary of what the series is about, but why should you watch it?
The characters are beautifully written. Each character’s relationship and interaction with each-other is complex and unique. The storyline is communicated without any words.
All music is produced by VIVINOS herself, with help from the extremely talented VAs.
In the series, we follow the characters being forced to face off against each other. Knowing that only one of them can live. Those carefully forged bonds shattered out of the fear of death.
It’s interesting how episodes are so short and the plot is so simple, and yet each frame leaves such a heavy impact on the viewer. There’s definitely a lot of room for interpretation within each episode as well as a lot of inferences. You could probably pull an 8 writing an english essay on this series.
Wiege definitely has to be my favorite episode. I was up at two AM in complete shambles after watching.
So yes, “ALIEN STAGE” is more than just “doom yaoi”. The series takes 50 minutes tops to finish, and it’ll definitely leave a lasting impact. It spotlights queer representation in contemporary media, and just for that I think it warrants a watch.
The Blue and White 