Haibane Renmei

Haibane Renmei is an anime that is simultaneously similar to and very different from its creator's most famous work, Serial Experiments Lain. Lain's focus on the relationship between man (or woman) and machine left me a little cold, so I was initially hesitant about Haibane Renmei.

To my surprise and delight, Haibane Renmei turned out to be an all-around solid work. In particular, I was impressed with Abe's ability to exhibit the scenery of the Haibane's world, while also expressing a range of philosophy and emotional connection between characters. The characters' relationships are very real and dynamic; the characters all seem very human, but they also share a non-human fate, and must deal with their feelings of separation from human beings and the mystery of their own future.

In short, if you are looking for an anime that deeply explores relationships, as well as touches on some interesting philosophical issues regarding the nature of fate and how people should deal with the unknown, I would very highly recommend Haibane Renmei.