If you liked
Haibane Renmei
|
...then you might like
Aria the Animation
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While Haibane Renmei is notably more reflective, melancholic and cohesive than Aria, they still share so many characteristics that I'm actually surprised they are not on the top in their respective lists of recommendations. Both are set in an isolated alternate world which is introduced trough multiple episodes, all of their prominent characters are female, main characters can be described as curious, complying and kind, both are mentored by a more experienced and respected woman which they adore. Episodic storytelling is also a shared trait between the two series, as is the slow pacing and delusive absence of coherent progression. The most apparent similarity is the constant alteration between various relaxing and mysterious settings. The overall impression differs, however. In Aria, relaxation and cheerfulness is emphasized, while the atmosphere of eeriness and mystery is more prevalent in Haibane Renmei. Even with that being said, it's remarkable how similar these independent series are conceptually, as we are talking about very unconventional concepts to begin with.