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Solo Leveling is essentially your typical power fantasy, with its only standout feature being the very good art, specially the coloring and the shading.

The premise is simple, gates with different levels of danger appear around the world, requiring hunters to enter and eliminate the threats. The main character is Sung Jin-Woo, a hunter with an extremely low ranking that gains an ability that allows him to become stronger in an easy way (compared to other humans), that quickly becomes the strongest.

Initially, the story seemed to have some potential, but quickly I noticed that I was wrong.

The narrative follows a simple formula: the main character enters ... a gate, something unexpected happens, clears the gate with relative ease, becomes stronger and repeat. This makes it a tad repetitive and predictable, and as the main character kept stronger the lack of genuine challenges made it less engaging over time.

Another significant issue lies in the abundance of plot conveniences. For example: Jin-Woo has a daily quest, and if uncompleted, he is transported to another area with a giant worm and has to survive for an hour. In one instance, during a life-threatening situation, the daily quest timer unexpectedly saved himby transporting him to another world. Also, as the daily quest penalty doesn't scale, during the time he was transported to the worm's world, it wasn't even a significant challenge.

The story neglects characters aside from Sung Jin-Woo, giving them minimal screen time, what makes them uninteresting and unimportant. Now, one might assume that if Sung Jin Woo receives all the screen time, he must be an interesting character, right? Unfortunately, that's not the case. He stands out as one of the blandest characters I've ever encountered, experiencing almost no character development throughout the entire story. He lacks a charismatic personality and displays minimal emotions. He was just made to look and act edgy. The only character development he undergoes is the transition from a generic weak main character who can be brave to an edgy overpowered main character. The worldbuilding is almost nonexistent, contributing to a lack of depth in the narrative.

While I didn't consider it anything special, I still enjoyed Solo Leveling a bit at the start. However, as the story progressed and the main character became stronger, my enjoyment waned. By the halfway point, the quality of the narrative took a significant downturn, making it almost unbearable in the latter part of the story.

If you just want to see a strong, edgy character decimating his enemies, with no need of a good story or characters, there is a good chance you will like Solo Leveling. Otherwise, it might be a disappointing investment of your time.

Side note: It says preliminary but the remaining chapters are side stories that released some time after the end of the story, and I finished SL before their release.

Dungeon Meshi is a journey that gradually unfolds. Initially, I didn't consider the manga bad, but found it a bit dull, even contemplating abandoning the read. However, I decided to persist until chapter 20, and as I approached that point, I became more engrossed in the story. By the time I reached chapter 20, I was completely hooked and eventually turned into one of my favorite manga.

Initially, the story was predominantly a comedy focused on eating monsters. However, as the narrative deviated from these origins, it evolved into a captivating adventure. The quest for food ceased to be merely a comedic device, transforming into a ... unifying theme around which characters expose themselves, and relationships develop. The best part is that as we progress in the story, we realize that everything was meticulously planned and hinted at from the beginning.

One of Dungeon Meshi's charms lies in the construction of the world, centered around the dungeon the group traverses. This world is meticulously detailed, with impressive attention to detail, addressing not only the ecology and physiology of monsters but also delving into how the dungeon functions, sustains itself, and even incorporating nuances of fantastical politics. These elements not only enrich the story's environment but are also crucial for plot development, contributing to an immersive reading experience. Despite the richness of information, the reader never feels overwhelmed by excessive exposition, as everything is presented organically and integrating it seamlessly, ensuring a smooth and engaging reading experience.

Another merit of this work is its narrative tone. The story oscillates between funny and emotional moments, always maintaining a touch of humor even in the most intense situations, without compromising the characters' genuine emotions. Additionally, the manga addresses the importance of self-care, highlighting how the group strives to take care of themselves to better help others. The ecological analysis present in the story, especially within the context of a dungeon, is also fascinating. The work adeptly explores various themes, with a particular emphasis on ethical and moral issues related to the dungeon's ecosystem.

The artistic elements are remarkable, presenting a remarkable range of designs, finely crafted to be easily recognized and remembered. The author's artistic evolution is stunning. What was impressive from the beginning becomes even more refined as the series progresses. The character drawings become increasingly sophisticated, demonstrating technical mastery that evolves with each chapter. Elaborate and detailed backgrounds, along with page composition, are a visual delight. The use of facial expressions is exceptional, effectively conveying emotions to readers. Additionally, the author creates bonus sketches featuring characters in different clothing, hairstyles, and races, where the distinctiveness of each design can be further noticed, together with the author's love for the created world.

The cast of characters in Dungeon Meshi is truly exceptional. Each character is meticulously crafted, possessing distinct ideologies that give rise to fascinating dynamics among them. They exude charisma while remaining true to their flaws, and their behaviors are genuinely convincing, staying faithful to their established characteristics. The narrative skillfully conveys character development, subtly revealing it through their actions rather than relying on explicit verbal explanations.

In conclusion, Dungeon Meshi is a meticulously crafted work, filled with engaging elements that make the reading experience unique. I highly recommend it.

Baccano! is an anime that isn't afraid to challenge conventional storytelling methods, adopting a non-linear narrative comparable to Pulp Fiction's approach. Set in America during the prohibition era, it unfolds primarily in the years 1930, 1931, and 1932, following a vast group of characters whose stories are interconnected in one way or another. While this approach might initially make the story seem confusing, as the narrative progresses, the pieces start falling into place, making the storytelling more coherent. This unique way of storytelling captivated me and, I believe, makes the anime more intriguing.

Baccano! is less of a 'story' and more of a sequence of scenes ... and mysteries, loosely connected by the interactions among the large ensemble cast, rewarding attentive and patient viewers. It's like a puzzle unraveling as it's mentally pieced together by the viewer while watching. This experience of witnessing the story unfold is highly satisfying and unique. Another positive aspect of the anime is that upon rewatching, you'll discover things you hadn't noticed before.

But what is Baccano! really about? A train robbery, the mafia, knife fights, thieves, smugglers, immortals, and assassins, but above all, it's about how people influence each other. It's about how everyone is the protagonist of their own story and how events can change depending on the perspective from which they're interpreted. Quoting the anime itself: "Cast aside the illusion that there is a beginning and an end to the story. The story has no beginning. And it has no end. All there is, is a performance of people connecting, living, influencing each other, and departing."

The voice acting, both in the Japanese and English versions, is very good, bringing life and individuality to the vast group of characters, making it easy to distinguish each one by their voice. The English version, which I consider superior, has a bonus: the characters speak in the language and appropriate accent for the anime's setting, enhancing the immersion.

The cast features various characters with vibrant personalities, from the impulsive and charismatic Claire Stanfield to the violent and manic Ladd Russo, and the shy yet courageous Jacuzzi Splot. All characters have well-defined personalities and a clear role in the vast and expansive story. This aspect fascinated me the most in Baccano, as it's not uncommon in other works for characters to be introduced and then serving no purpose.

My favorite characters were the most eccentric, with special mention to Isaac and Miria, a hilarious duo with perfect chemistry, connecting various stories. Considering the large number of characters in Baccano, it's hard not to like any, given the vast diversity of personalities present in the work.

Now, talking about the more technical aspects, Baccano!'s artistic direction verges on perfection. Starting with the downside: some parts are too dark, which diminishes the visual beauty of some scenes. However, the animation is fluid, allowing characters' movements to be quick and natural. Moreover, there's meticulous attention to detail, from the smallest things like shadows and the brutality of scenes to broader aspects, such as the meticulous recreation of 1930s New York streets. Animation stands out, especially in action sequences, which are well-choreographed, with swift movements where you can observe details like shots accompanied by flashes and smoke, blood spreading in all directions, and the ability to identify teeth and bones flying amidst chaos. All this makes the fights convey an energetic sensation that makes them lively and enjoyable to watch. However, the energy that Baccano! exudes is largely due to its soundtrack.

There's nothing that defines Baccano!'s tone better than its soundtrack; each song radiates style, and they all come together to create a truly unique atmosphere. Everything, from the lively jazz music playing during mafia scenes to the more piano-focused ones that help build tension during the train murder mystery, is masterfully composed and fits incredibly well.

In summary, Baccano! is an anime full of charm that provides a highly enjoyable experience. Its elaborate plot, phenomenal voice cast, and excellent soundtrack reflect the care behind this authentic treasure. I highly recommend it for anyone seeking something truly original and especially for fans of Tarantino's works.

Animeta! is a manga by Yaso Hanamura, a former animator, that delves into Miyuki Sanada's journey into the world of animation. Miyuki decides to pursue this career out of sheer passion, despite lacking full support from her parents and being aware of the financial challenges and exhaustive workload it entails. Contrary to what you might be thinking, she doesn't possess inherent animation skills, often facing criticism for her work. However, a character recognizes a potential in her that could make her an excellent animator and decides to invest in it. Throughout the plot, we witness the protagonist improving her skills through relentless effort and dedication, ... facing both frustrating and rewarding moments.

The main character is easily likable, albeit somewhat clichéd in personality. The other characters are also intriguing, their personalities complementing each other well.

What I enjoyed most about the story was gaining further insight into the anime industry. The manga provides a comprehensive view of anime creation, meticulously revealing the behind-the-scenes, from harsh recruitment policies to intricate production processes. Hanamura delves into business intricacies, addressing the harsh realities newcomers face and the nuances of seeking employment in an anime studio.

One might expect a manga about a girl pursuing her dream of becoming an animator to romanticize the profession. However, Animeta! challenges the idealized notion of an animator's career, offering a unique perspective from the staff's viewpoint, contrasting with the consumers' perspective. Additionally, Animeta! fearlessly portrays the harsh realities and scarcity of professionals, offering an authentic view of the challenges faced by animators in Japan.

Animeta! is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the workings of the anime industry, even recommended by Kazuya Matsumoto, an animation producer at TRIGGER Studio, who praised its realism. Despite being clichéd in some aspects, Miyuki Sanada's story provides an inspiring and informative narrative about the journey of an aspiring animator in the Japanese animation industry.

In the midst of many other manga series in Shounen Jump, Sakamoto Days stands out for its simple and engaging approach, steering clear of complex power systems or fantasy worlds.

Originally planned to follow an episodic approach, with Sakamoto being targeted by different assassins, the narrative expands surprisingly. New characters and factions are introduced smoothly, enriching the plot without disrupting the pace. While not featuring complex characters, Sakamoto Days has done a commendable job in constructing them, giving each distinct personalities and designs. Notably, secondary characters, such as Shin, undergo notable development. They transition from supporting roles to key players, showcasing unique skills and determination.

One of ... the most notable features of this manga is its artwork, which shines especially in fight scenes. The action is depicted with impressive dynamism, highlighting swift movements and brilliantly choreographed sequences. A standout aspect is the ability to convey a sense of speed in the drawings without compromising clarity. The fluid lines and skillfully chosen camera angles add an undeniable energy to the fights, providing an exhilarating visual experience. Another aspect that makes the fights captivating is how they manage to maintain a sense of realism, as they don't involve supernatural abilities, even though they can be surreal at times, such as a character being able to slice through a building with a single sword movement.

One of the most remarkable attributes of our protagonist, Taro Sakamoto, is his ability to adapt to the surrounding environment and creatively and efficiently use it in his battles. This ability adds an extra layer of cleverness to the action sequences, making them more enjoyable and providing unique moments.

In conclusion, 'Sakamoto Days' stands out as an exhilarating journey in the realm of Shounen manga. With its dynamic storytelling, charismatic characters, and visually stunning artwork, the series provides a unique and enjoyable read. Whether you're drawn to action-packed narratives or crave visually thrilling adventures, 'Sakamoto Days' stands as a compelling choice. Immerse yourself in this manga and discover why it's an exceptional addition to the Shounen genre.

Shangri-La Frontier stands as a pinnacle within the VRMMORPG manga genre, setting itself apart from the standard tropes of powering up through friendship. Authored with a clear understanding of gaming intricacies, it’s evident that the creator is a seasoned gamer. Fun fact: the manga even experienced a hiatus due to the author's addiction to Elden Ring.

What truly sets this work apart is its unique approach to Virtual Reality Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (VRMMORPGs). It delves into strategic gameplay, teamwork dynamics, and the challenges inherent in the gaming world. The narrative excels in detailing the game mechanics, establishing a vivid world, and highlighting the significance ... of teamwork to conquer formidable adversaries.

The manga enthralls with its meticulous and adrenaline-pumping action sequences. It navigates character relationships while portraying gaming as an engaging and serious endeavor. Instead of relying on worn-out clichés, the storyline focuses on unraveling mysteries and overcoming obstacles, fostering a sense of cooperative yet competitive spirit.

What's commendable is the diversity showcased among player types, notably explored through the introduced guilds. Each guild has a distinct focus, whether it's about vanquishing the formidable colossi or exploring the game's rich lore.

A significant aspect of the protagonist's character is their skill without falling into the overpowered protagonist stereotype. The need for occasional grinding to level up or acquire better equipment adds depth. Furthermore, the absence of plot armor, or at least its subtle use, is a refreshing change.

The manga's ability to allow the protagonist to venture into other games injects a breath of fresh air into the storyline. To top it off, the quality of the artwork is nothing short of impressive, contributing significantly to the overall experience.

In summary, Shangri-La Frontier is a standout in the VRMMORPG genre, defying conventional tropes and offering a refreshing, strategic take on gaming narratives.

Inu-oh is an unique cinematic work that delves deep into the journey of discovery and self-acceptance, challenging the definition that society tries to impose on who we are. The film explores the difference and beauty of individuality in an artistic and reflective manner, touching on themes of exclusion, acceptance, and the struggle against the world's tendency to reject what is different.

This audio-visual spectacle delves into the critical point of individual identity, challenging the social definition of personality. The film also addresses themes of historical complaint, rejection of the new, and issues of authority, politics, and ownership in the artistic sphere.

Inu-oh stands out for its emotional ... animation and immersive soundtrack, with lengthy musical segments that, although challenging, captivate the viewers if they allow themselves to be carried along with the rhythm of the music and narrative. Ultimately, the film is a musical, conveying a significant portion of its story through music, which is an incredible blend of classical instruments, with special emphasis on the biwa, combined with modern music.

With superb artistic direction, Inu-oh delves into three intertwined stories: that of the Heike clan (this movie is best appreciated if one is already familiar with the tales of this clan, for which one can watch the anime "Heike Monogatari" from the same studio, but it's not really necessary), that of Tomona, and that of Inu-oh himself. This might seem to suggest that the film will have difficulty conveying its message and not confusing its themes; however, these three stories are inherently connected, allowing for the natural exploration of one to lead to another. However, the fast pace of the film can be a bit excessive, affecting the absorption of the themes and messages it seeks to convey.