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Last OnlineNov 29, 2024 5:34 PM
JoinedNov 12, 2023

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Mar 26, 2024

Yubisaki to Renren (Anime) add

Mixed Feelings

If you're looking for a cute, feel-good romance this will definitely satisfy you. If you're looking for a mature romance with interesting characters it may not. While the story is sweet, the character writing is mostly weak and left a lot to be desired. The female lead has almost no defining traits other than being deaf and cute, we learn almost nothing about any desires or motivations that are not related to romance. She falls in love with the male lead almost instantly, who is essentially an ideal romantic partner with no real flaws or need for character development, i.e. a pretty boring character. The ...

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Mar 25, 2024

Sousou no Frieren (Anime) add

Recommended

Sousou no Frieren is an enjoyable take on the fantasy genre with a unique premise and consistently high production value. It is an introspective slice of life show at its core that also incorporates action and a little romance. The action scenes are well done but the show is at its best during quieter, more intimate moments where it creates a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere. Watching Frieren feels like sitting by the fire with a cup of cocoa gently warming you and a soft bed waiting for you to fall into. The themes of the show remind us not to take our life or relationships ... for granted and while you shouldn't expect to have your worldview challenged or changed, the message is one that will always be relevant.
Some of the weaker aspects of Frieren are its characters and the sometimes clunky exposition that is more prevalent in the exam arc. For the first 17 episodes the cast of recurring characters is small and consists of Frieren, her companions Fern and Stark and the three members of her original party. A character named Sein later joins the group for several episodes. The show centers on Frieren's character development, which is slow but visible and believable. Fern and Stark get little development after their respective introductions, Fern is a particularly static character whose main (and perhaps only) development is that she improves her skill in magic. Stark is a little better but both characters leave the viewer wanting more from them. Sein is an interesting character who brings some personality to the group but is only around for a few episodes.
From episode 18 we are introduced to a large group of new characters, some interesting, some bland. Overall the character writing in Frieren can be hit-or-miss, it also takes time to become accustomed to the lack of expression/minimal expressions that are part of the art style.
The writing is good overall, it can be a little clunky at times, particularly during sections of the exam arc where large chunks of exposition are dolled out mid-fight. Significant use is made of flashbacks, which are often very effective but sometimes feel like they are only there for plot or narrative convenience and to generate nostalgia. However, the direction of Frieren is some of the best in recent anime, scenes and shots flow together very organically and purposefully. Keiichirō Saitō has done an excellent job.

Overall Frieren is a comfortable and enjoyable show with relatively low stakes, beautiful production quality and a calming atmosphere. Anyone wanting to experience a slice of life anime in a familiar fantasy setting with a unique premise should give it a try.

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