Series & First Appearance
Nicolas Brown is a character from the anime and manga series "Gangsta." Created by Kohske, he first appears in Chapter 1 of the manga and Episode 1 of the anime adaptation, which premiered in 2015. The series is notable for its gritty depiction of a world filled with crime, where Nicolas navigates the dangerous pursuits of a gangster-for-hire.
Profile at a Glance
Nicolas Brown, 34 years old, stands at 169 cm. He is a member of the Benriya, a group that operates in the underworld as mercenaries for hire. Primarily wielding a sword, Nicolas is a formidable combatant and is classified as an A/0 level Twilight, which makes him both feared and revered among criminals. Notably, he is deaf and primarily communicates through sign language, though he possesses limited verbal abilities.
Personality & Motivations
Nicolas is characterized by his aloof demeanor and imposing presence, which often leads others to view him as intimidating and standoffish. Despite his tough exterior, he has a softer side, especially towards Nina, a character he deeply cares for. His bond with Worick, his partner in the Benriya, is a significant driving force in his life. Nicolas’s motivations are intertwined with survival within the criminal underworld, and over time, he begins accepting the presence of Alex at the Benriya residence, indicating a subtle evolution in his emotional landscape. Often viewed as a “faker” due to his reliance on uppers to maintain his A/0 strength, his journey involves confronting the implications of his drug use and grappling with his identity beyond his reputation as a ruthless enforcer.
Abilities / Powers
Nicolas’s combat skills are exceptional; he is highly proficient with a sword and demonstrates impressive agility and reflexes during battles. His classification as an A/0 Twilight signifies his enhanced physical capabilities, allowing him to engage in intense combat scenarios effectively. However, his reliance on uppers to achieve this level means that he would ordinarily be the equivalent of a B/5 level without them, illustrating a significant limitation in his natural abilities. This dependency forms a critical aspect of his character, leading to internal struggles and challenges throughout the story.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Nicolas’s narrative arc in "Gangsta." showcases his evolution from a seemingly heartless gangster to a character displaying unexpected depth and empathy. Key plot points involve his interactions with Nina and Alex, both of whom challenge his emotional barriers. His ongoing journey includes reconciling his identity as a “faker” while facing external threats from rival gangs and the societal ramifications of being a Twilight. A turning point occurs when he must confront the realities of his drug use and the façade it creates, setting the stage for his deeper character exploration.
Notable Relationships
- Worick Arcangelo: Nicolas’s partner in the Benriya, their relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding, underscoring the importance of camaraderie in their perilous lives.
- Nina: A young woman who captures Nicolas’s softer side, illustrating his ability to form emotional connections despite his rough exterior.
- Alex: Initially met with skepticism, Nicolas’s gradual acceptance of Alex represents his growth and willingness to embrace new relationships.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most impactful moments occurs when Nicolas physically exhibits his frustration through intense combat, particularly in episodes where his loyalty to Worick and commitment to their cause are tested. A notable scene is found in Episode 5, where his protective nature toward Nina is vividly displayed, solidifying his complex character.
A few of Nicolas’s impactful quotes convey his internal struggles and perspectives on the gangster life, emphasizing the themes of identity and belonging that resonate with viewers.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Nicolas Brown is voiced by Takahiro Sakurai in the Japanese version, and the English dub features Matthew Mercer, both of whom effectively capture his nuanced character traits. The character has garnered a significant fan following, with a popularity ranking of 3,518 in various polls, showcasing his appeal. The duality of his character acts as a commentary on the realities faced by individuals in the margins of society, linking Nicolas to broader social themes prevalent in the series.
The series itself has been characterized by its unique blend of action and emotional depth, often drawing upon themes of loyalty, identity, and the moral ambiguities of street life. Nicolas’s journey encapsulates these elements, making him a key figure in "Gangsta." that resonates with audiences seeking well-developed characters amidst a backdrop of chaos and conflict.
