- Last OnlineDec 20, 2024 5:17 AM
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- BirthdayJan 27, 1998
- LocationWroclaw, Poland
- JoinedAug 9, 2019
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Dec 2, 2024
Okay, so we all pretty much know the story by now, so let’s skip the recap and get straight to it.
What’s changed since Part 1? Well, you could argue a lot has changed - or maybe nothing at all. What has changed is the animation, and not in a good way. Somehow, it’s managed to get even worse compared to the Part 1, setting a new low for the series. For anyone coming off the high of Season 1, this is a crushing disappointment. Don’t believe me? Here’s an example: the first seven minutes of Episode 9 feel like they’ve got maybe 200 unique frames.
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I’m talking actual frames here. Okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration, but it sure doesn’t feel like it. Running animations are just three frames on loop, and the fight scenes? They’re as dynamic and smooth as a gazelle with broken legs having two strokes at once. If you managed to make it past Episode 8, congratulations - you’ve got more patience than I do. For me, it was unbearable. The animation isn’t just generic - it’s outright bad.
The music is still great, but it’s completely buried in the background now. It doesn’t carry the same punch it had in Season 1. Whoever was responsible for the sound design dropped the ball hard here. All they had to do was copy-paste what worked before, but somehow, they still messed it up.
Let’s just call it like it is: giving this IP to this studio was a massive mistake. Years of waiting, years of hype, and what did we get? A flaming disaster with nothing but ashes left behind. At this point, I honestly think you’d have a better experience just reading the source material while listening to the music from Season 1.
It’s not like this adaptation was doomed from the start. They had everything they needed to succeed - Season 1 proved that. But whatever spark it had, it’s completely gone now.
To sum it up: whether you liked the unique art style of Season 1 or not, Season 2’s animation is just plain awful, art style be damned.
Reviewer’s Rating: 4
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Oct 26, 2024
"Demon Lord 2099" caught my attention right away - mainly because who wouldn’t be intrigued by a demon lord in a neon-drenched cyberpunk city? A fantasy cyberpunk fusion? That’s a setup you don’t see every day.
The story starts out in classic fashion. We’ve got a demon lord, he gets taken down, time passes, and bam! Reincarnation in the year 2099. Veltol, our illustrious demon lord, returns to a future where magic and technology have fused, creating an entirely new world. Once the terrifying ruler of a medieval landscape, he’s now just a relic in history—at least until he decides that this high-tech metropolis will be
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his for the taking.
Alright, let’s dive into the review!
The animation so far is solid. It’s not what I’d call breathtaking, but it fits the tone perfectly, balancing between the magical and futuristic. It’s not about to compete with the visual standards of Chainsaw Man or Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2, but it doesn’t need to. For the type of story it’s telling, it’s doing the job well. I mean, at least it’s way ahead of Tower of God Season 2’s animation, which feels like it barely even tried.
The sound follows a similar path. I’ve got a soft spot for the opening and closing music; they have that mellow cyberpunk vibe that sticks with you. As for the other tracks, they’re good, they fit, and honestly, that’s all I really ask for. The music is like the story’s background heartbeat, and it does its job.
Now for the big question: the story and setting. The plot itself? So far, it’s fairly typical if you look past the cyberpunk setting. There aren’t any wild twists or new storytelling innovations, but the setting is what makes it feel fresh. It’s a refreshing take on the classic demon lord trope, and I’m all for it. Veltol as a character works well in this setting, bringing a bit of that old-school demon lord flair to the high-tech world.
The world-building is surprisingly well-done. The small details scattered throughout the episodes make Shinjuku feel immersive, almost tangible. I found myself drawn into the setting multiple times; it’s clear that the creators put in the effort to make this world more than just a backdrop. The setting, without a doubt, is the main selling point.
So, what’s the verdict? Look, this isn’t top-tier anime, but there’s nothing glaringly wrong with it either. I’m genuinely enjoying it so far, even if it’s not the type of show that’ll blow you away. It’s perfect for a chill evening with a cup of tea and some snacks, and what more can you ask for? If I had to sum it up in one word? Vibes.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Sep 30, 2024
Alright, let’s just get this over with.
Season 2 picks up a few years after the events of the first. The 25th Bam, now going by the ominous name Jue Viole Grace, is part of FUG, a shady organization bent on overthrowing the mighty Jahad (yes, with a J). For Viole, though, it’s less of a choice and more of a forced, love-hate relationship with FUG. Even after being alone since the first floor, he’s back to working with - and against - people he can’t help but grow attached to.
Now that the intro’s out of the way, let’s get into the details, shall we? I’m
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going to try to capture the overall feeling of this season, since that’s what made season 1 so great - not the visuals, not the music, not even the story, but the feeling of it all coming together. Me? Oh, I absolutely binged the living hell out of the first season.
Right, right, I’m getting to it... Okay?! Just give me a second here.
So, the overall feeling of Tower of God Season 2 is... well, underwhelming. And that’s putting it kindly. The most immediate and obvious difference? The artwork. Whether you liked or disliked the art style of the first season, you can’t deny that it had a distinct look. The colors were vibrant, the animation was smooth, and you could feel the care that went into every scene. Fast forward to Season 2, and all of that is gone. The aesthetic feels generic. Bland. But here’s the kicker: the animation is lazy. Like, really lazy. The special effects are so poorly done that they make my childhood doodles seem like art in comparison. From start to finish, the visuals lack any kind of flourish, leaving us with a show that feels flat and lifeless.
The music? Still good, but it feels recycled. There are no standout new tracks, and somehow, even the familiar ones don’t hit as hard. In fact, I’d argue it’s worse than season 1. The audio effects that enhanced the music back then are gone. This just makes the contrast between the decent soundtrack and the subpar visuals all the more jarring. It’s like watching Beauty and the Beast, except the Beast never gets his redemption arc.
And that brings me to the story. Oh boy, the story. Let’s get one thing straight: I understand that adapting a sprawling narrative like Tower of God means making some cuts. There’s simply too much content to fit into a single season, so naturally, some elements have to be dropped. But that’s not the real issue here. A lot of unnecessary scenes were included, while crucial moments that could have enriched character development were left behind. Instead of focusing on the growth of our characters, we’re treated to drawn-out dialogue that often explains things we can easily deduce just by watching the action unfold. Remember the golden rule of storytelling: “show, don’t tell”? Well, it feels like the creators of Season 2 completely forgot that, and the result is a story that trips over itself instead of pulling you in. In the end, this leads to a pacing that slows everything down.
Honestly, there’s no real saving grace for season 2. The majority of it is mediocre at best, and the parts that are bad are really bad. The plot lacks any real tension, and the visual downgrade is impossible to ignore. Everything about this season feels like it was phoned in, like the new studio didn’t have the time, energy, or budget to deliver the same level of quality we got in the first season.
After sitting through the whole thing, I can’t help but feel like we’ve been flat-out scammed. Seriously, what happened here? season 1 gave us hope - it teased us with the idea that Tower of God could be something truly epic, something special. And then season 2 comes along and just yanks the rug out from under us, like a cruel joke. We waited for this? What we’re left with isn’t just a disappointment - it’s a slap in the face. A bland, lifeless sequel that barely even tries. How did they manage to take all that potential and flush it down the drain? It’s generic. It’s uninspired. And if this is the direction the series is headed in, I’m telling you right now: don’t even bother. Why waste your time on something that’s clearly lost the spark that made it great in the first place? Honestly, if this is what they’re serving up, I’m done.
In conclusion: disappointing, forgettable, and thoroughly generic. Here’s hoping the new studio gets their act together, but I’m not holding my breath.
Reviewer’s Rating: 5
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May 6, 2024
Starting Kaiju no. 8 was a dive into the unknown for me. Admittedly, the manga had been on my radar for some time, yet somehow it never made its way onto my reading list. So, imagine my delight when this adaptation came along (sorry, manga aficionados, I promise to do better).
The premise is pretty much spelled out in the title: monster battles, and we're not talking about your run-of-the-mill dungeon creatures, but colossal, Godzilla-sized behemoths.
Enter Kafka Hibino. Like many folks in their thirties, he's not exactly living his dream life—go figure. Always harboring a desire to join the Defense Force tasked with tackling these monsters,
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Kafka's outlook takes a turn when he meets his new coworker. Cue a series of events that lead to some bonding and friendship.
Now, without delving into spoiler territory, let's talk about the anime itself. The story holds promise, with an intriguing premise and some mystery surrounding the monsters. There's even a dash of childhood romance thrown in. It ticks all the anime boxes, perhaps a few too many.
Here's where things get a bit dicey for me. The anime struggles to find its tone. Sure, there are tense moments and cool declarations, but then you're hit with typical, goofy anime antics that just feel out of place. Maybe it worked in manga format, but anime is a different ball game. Adaptation, not translation—remember? This is where Kaiju no. 8 stumbles.
On the production side, things are solid. The music sets the mood, and the fight scenes are enjoyable and easy to follow. Admittedly, the opening CGI leaves much to be desired, but overall, the animation holds up well. It's not on par with the likes of Moshuku Tensei season 1 or Chainsaw Man, but it's more than serviceable.
In summary, Kaiju no. 8 delivers a decent enough show. It's safe, in the sense that it won't let you down, but it won't blow your socks off either. It feels like a missed opportunity, teetering on the edge of mediocrity. Here's hoping the upcoming episodes can turn things around.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Apr 23, 2024
Once again, we're plunged back into the intriguing world of our favorite psychopath in an unconventional high school setting. This season, like its predecessors, centers around Ayanokouji's tactical genius as he orchestrates victories from the shadows, manipulating events without ever taking center stage.
In terms of production, there have been no changes, which is a relief. However, a bit more action would have been welcome to spice things up.
Overall, this season serves as a solid continuation of the narrative. We delve deeper not only into Ayanokouji's complex character but also into those around him. While the storyline advances significantly, there are moments when it feels somewhat
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laborious. It's not that the intricate details provided this season aren't appreciated, but the predictability of each outcome saps some of the excitement from the viewing experience. Watching this season felt eerily similar to observing it through Ayanokouji's emotionless perspective.
On a positive note, watching the protagonist intricately weave his plots, adding new strands while maintaining the old ones, was quite fascinating. It's intriguing to see moments where he might actually seem benevolent, only to be reminded through his internal monologues that his manipulative and detached nature remains unchanged. His lack of empathy proves strangely captivating and adds a layer of depth to the story as each character perceives him through their own emotional lens.
I did find myself yearning for a dramatic revelation akin to those in the first two seasons. It appears that this season is more about strategically setting the stage for future developments—almost like preparing a chessboard for an impending game.
To sum up, while this season is a commendable addition to the series, I found my engagement mirroring the apathy of its lead character. Perhaps it's due to the lack of palpable stakes or the anticipation of a climactic twist that never comes. Nevertheless, the series remains true to its essence and characters, not forcing action where it doesn't belong, which, while it may detract from its immediate appeal, is praiseworthy in its own right.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Mar 12, 2024
I gave high marks to the first half of The Ancient Magus' Bride Season 2 for venturing into a bold new direction, a departure from the debut season's path. I'm still fond of this adjusted setting, but I can't shake off the feeling that the show has lost a piece of its essence. If the season's outset was akin to switching lanes on a highway, the latter half seems to execute a full u-turn.
The narrative continues to explore the mentor-student dynamic between Chise and Elias, yet there's a noticeable lack of development here, making this crucial relationship feel somewhat neglected. Elias's personal growth, though briefly
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spotlighted, is hastily dropped by the storyline. This could be seen as strengthening their independence, diminishing their reliance on one another, but I find myself yearning for a deeper romantic connection between them.
The story instead focuses on human-to-human relationships, it explores some tragedies that while similar are completely unrelated to the main heroine. While Chise remains a pivotal figure, the narrative leans more into the lives and challenges of other characters. This shift offers Chise room for growth, yet it seems this potential wasn't fully realized. The storytelling, while not inherently flawed, feels misplaced in perspective and intention, as if the series has momentarily lost sight of its foundational identity.
Now, addressing a commonly discussed element—the magic. In its first season, magic nearly served as an invincible shield, with the plot overly dependent on it to the point of losing intrigue. The second season initially dialed back, presenting magic as a nuanced tool governed by rules, which I appreciated. However, the season's second part perhaps retracts too much, rendering magic less wondrous and leaving its usage and implications underexplained. This results in a feeling of magic being a convenient plot device rather than an integral aspect of the world.
In summary, despite improving on pacing and narrative depth over the first season, the show seems to have drifted from its true essence. It doesn't entirely discard the rich world-building and character development established previously, but there's a noticeable detachment, akin to viewing through a fogged lens. It remains a commendable watch, unlikely to disappoint fans outright, but it also represents a regression from the first half of this season and, in certain respects, from the initial season.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Mar 11, 2024
I embarked on watching The Ancient Magus' Bride Season 2 - part 1 with high expectations. While I wasn't a fervent fan of the first season, I did find it enjoyable. This season, however, seems to address many of the issues and shortcomings of its predecessor.
Right from the start, it's evident that the show's tone has shifted. It adopts a more serious approach to its storytelling and character development. While some may find this departure from the previous setting off-putting, I personally view it as an enhancement. This shift adds weight to any potential dangers or challenges faced by the protagonists, elevating the stakes and
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injecting a sense of unpredictability into the narrative, which makes watching the second season quite engaging.
Furthermore, there's notable progress in the relationship between Elias and Chise. There's less meandering and more substantive depth, not only in their bond but also in their individual character arcs. While the first season laid a solid foundation for their backstory, I often felt somewhat disconnected from it. However, the second season does a much better job of fleshing out believable characters with relatable emotions and struggles.
While there's still a strong magical presence in the show, there's a noticeable reduction in the overt display of magic compared to the first season. This shift highlights the existence of rules and limitations within the magical realm, adding a layer of realism and removing some of the plot armor that magic seemed to provide in the previous season.
Another significant improvement is the pacing of the story. The narrative feels more purposeful and moves along at a brisker pace, with events unfolding in a more consequential manner. It's as if there's a clear cause-and-effect relationship between the story beats, contributing to a more engaging viewing experience.
Overall, I'd consider the second season a substantial improvement over its predecessor. While I appreciate the direction the show has taken, there's still a sense that something is lacking. However, it's a commendable step forward in refining the series' storytelling and character development.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Feb 28, 2024
Entering "A Sign of Affection," I had some big hopes. Being a fan of "A Silent Voice," I was ready for a heartfelt romance centered around overcoming challenges and two people connecting on a deeper level.
But instead of diving into a rich, deep story, it felt more like skimming the surface of a shallow puddle. The characters lacked depth and just didn't grab my interest. The connection between Yuki and Itsuomi felt forced and artificial, like they were going through the motions without any real emotion behind it. It's like walking in a circle but insisting you're moving straight ahead - it just doesn't add
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up.
The one bright spot in the show was Oushi, Yuki's childhood friend. There's some real drama and hidden feelings simmering beneath the surface with him. He's not perfect, and his rough exterior masks a softer side that feels genuine and relatable. I found myself empathizing with Oushi, even though he doesn't get enough screen time.
On the flip side, Itsuomi falls flat as a character. He lacks the humanity and depth needed to connect with the audience. Despite hints at a backstory, I couldn't muster much interest in him as the series progressed.
Now, let's talk about Yuki's deafness, especially compared to "A Silent Voice". In the latter, it's a central focus driving the story, imbued with romantic undertones. "A Sign of Affection" takes a different approach, incorporating Yuki's disability as just one aspect of her character. While not a bad choice, I wish it had been portrayed more effectively in the anime.
Overall, the anime tries too hard to evoke romance and positive emotions. It falls short because the focus feels more on the audience than on developing authentic characters. It's disappointing because the premise and character concepts hold promise, yet the execution leaves much to be desired.
Reviewer’s Rating: 4
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Dec 20, 2023
Embarking on the second season of The Eminence in Shadow was like stepping onto a thrill ride with no idea where the twists and turns would take us. Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, this season dives headfirst into the familiar antics of our beloved protagonist Cid and his ever-present alter ego, Shadow. The blend of absurdity, humor, and outright awesomeness is present, maintaining the show's unique charm.
As anticipated, the series stuck to its tried-and-true formula, giving us the same solid animation, wild battles, and an epic soundtrack that we've come to expect. It's a testament to the creators' commitment to what works.
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However, what sets this season apart is how it manages to defy expectations just when you think you've got it all figured out. The story takes unexpected turns, injecting a fresh dose of excitement into the mix.
The self-aware edginess that defines The Eminence in Shadow is not only retained but elevated. The show revels in its own quirks, using them to craft a narrative that feels perpetually new and entertaining. It's not just about being edgy for the sake of it; it's a key ingredient in the show's winning recipe.
And then comes the ending—a masterstroke that flips the script and leaves you questioning everything you thought you knew about the series. It's a bold move that pays off, adding depth and intrigue to an already eccentric world.
In contrast to my initial concern about the formula potentially growing stale, the second season proves that there's still room for innovation within its established framework. The characters' interactions, the evolving consequences of Cid's actions, and the unexpected narrative twists contribute to a more dynamic and layered universe.
My previous score of 9/10 now feels inadequate to capture the sheer enjoyment I experienced throughout this season. The show, while not a storytelling masterpiece, excels in delivering pure, unadulterated fun. Therefore, I wholeheartedly raise my rating to a well-deserved 10/10. It's not blasphemy or heresy; it's an acknowledgment of the sheer joy this series brings to its audience. The Eminence in Shadow Season 2 isn't just a sequel; it's a testament to the limitless potential of a show that knows how to keep its audience on the edge of their seats while laughing all the way.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Oct 13, 2023
"Frieren: Beyond Journey's End" is a unique offering that leans more toward the contemplative and emotionally evocative style, akin to "Violet Evergarden" with a touch of "Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina." Set in a world where elves can live for over 1000 years, this series follows the story of Frieren, an elf who fought alongside humans and embarked on a remarkable journey with them.
The tale begins with an unexpected twist: the demon king is already defeated. This story unfolds after the main events have concluded. A party of four, including an elven mage named Frieren, has vanquished the demon king, seemingly setting the stage
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for a happily ever after. However, Frieren's perspective is shaped by her exceptionally long lifespan, making her somewhat oblivious to the fleeting nature of human lives. This results in her often appearing aloof and distant, seemingly indifferent to the people around her.
The series delves deep into Frieren's character, revisiting the adventures she once shared with her party. Initially, her apparent detachment from those around her may come across as ignorance of what she's losing and has already lost, including the relationships and friendships she treasures, at least on some emotional level. As we accompany her on her new journey, we witness her transformation into someone who cherishes the limited time she has with people and discover her genuinely caring and considerate nature. Her perceived indifference stems from a stark difference in perspective; what seems like a brief detour to satisfy her curiosity, for humans is in fact a span of six months.
Now, let's shift our focus from the synopsis to the production values. The animation is commendable, although it may not reach the heights of "Violet Evergarden." Nevertheless, it aptly supports the story, which is the primary attraction of this series. While some viewers, myself included, may wish for more elaborate animation during those rare highly emotional moments, the series manages quite well without it. That said, improved animation could have elevated the overall experience.
As mentioned earlier, the story takes center stage, and it's refreshingly straightforward in its pursuit of melancholic storytelling. Despite its simplicity, the plot maintains interest by introducing new elements whenever the narrative starts to feel too predictable. The intriguing blend of responsibility, caring, ignorance, and an oddly self-aware elf protagonist creates an engaging narrative. The frequent time jumps, spanning years or even decades between episodes, keeps viewers eager to witness how the ageless protagonist and her companions, old and new, evolve over time.
There isn't much to say about the music except that it doesn't overshadow the storytelling. This can be both an advantage and a drawback. On one hand, it allows the narrative to take center stage without the distraction of overpowering music. On the other hand, it means that the series lacks those highly climactic moments where the narrative, animation, and music converge to create emotional peaks, as expertly achieved in "Violet Evergarden."
I genuinely want to appreciate "Frieren: Beyond Journey's End." However, as this is the first season, it's challenging to fully immerse oneself in the series. It's undeniably pleasant to watch but doesn't appear to transcend that description. The most intriguing aspect is the enigmatic Frieren, whose character development seems complex and elusive on the surface. Whether this complexity is genuine or superficial remains uncertain and will likely depend on future episodes. Initially, I intended to rate this series a 7/10, anticipating it might stagnate, but after six episodes, I still eagerly await each new release. It may not be a masterpiece, but it doesn't seem to aspire to be one. It feels more like an actual adventure in which we, the viewers, are participants. Hence, I've elevated my preliminary score to a modest 8/10, for now.
I'll stick with the series and keep my fingers crossed that it maintains its current momentum. It's a show that keeps revealing its charm with each new episode, and I'm eager to see where the journey takes us.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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