Mar 10, 2019
This review is spoiler free. Feel free to discuss my claims via PM. Futhermore, my thoughts on this anime and specific scenes will not be shared as there are no spoilers.
"Love will make you blind." -Yasuraoka, Hanabi
Kuzu no Honkai adapted from the manga of the same name by Yokoyari Mengo, is a medley of darkness, love, despair, and change. As a disclaimer, assuming you haven't watched the anime yet, there is no nudity; however, there are implied sex scenes. Furthermore, it is not your happy-go-lucky romance, but more of a coming of age, realistic tragedy.
Story: 9
As written in the synopsis here on MAL, the anime
...
starts of with our two main characters, Mugi and Hanabi, who are introduced as substitutes for each others lovers in a physical relationship, otherwise known was "friends with benefits". Throughout the anime, Hanabi and Mugi rely on each other for both emotional and physical comfort, as they are unable to pursue their own loves. Kuzu no Honkai has a unique premise, immediately introducing the main characters to be not only intimate, but also uninterested in each other. Furthermore, later in the story, the dialogue portrays realistic representations of human nature, thoughts, and reasoning behind the actions.
Art/Animation: 10
The animation quality of Kuzu no Honkai is excellent. During the anime, lighting is utilized to alter the mood, and transitions of scenes are mastered. The drawings of the characters fit the characterization perfectly, while also offering some eye candy from the attractiveness.
Sound: 9
The opening, "Uso no Hibana" by 96neko fits the mood and direction of the anime. Tone used in the lyrics fits the dark mood whilst the lyrics represent the anime. Furthermore, the ending, "Heikousen" by Sayuri utilizes her voice to lyricize the message of the song. The rhythm and "catchiness" of both the opening and the ending also adds to the quality of the anime. The OSTs in Kuzu no Honkai fit the scenes and enhance the mood enough to make the scenes themselves memorable. Filled with a dark undertone, the message of the scenes are conveyed.
Character: 10
In Kuzu no Honkai, we are presented with what I would say is a focus on six characters. Each character has their own story, and reasons for their love. As each character's story is revealed, and their actions watched, the realistic thought processes of the characters are unraveled. The characterization of said characters is arguably the best quality of Kuzu no Honkai, as realistic actions are utilized in such a way that the viewer feels it is a reality instead of a work of fiction. As some characters are seen as the dark side of human nature, others are seen as the brightest angel.
Enjoyment: 10
This section is a personal viewing/opinion. People's tastes vary by user, therefore you may not agree with any part of this review. The melding of the elements presented in Kuzu no Honkai (story, art, characterization, and sound) made for a wonderful experience. I enjoyed the dark themes in the story, mixed with the realistic attribute of modern day romance, and the explanations of the characters' actions.
Finally, the reason behind the 10/10 or masterpiece rating is because of the quality and impact that combining the elements of Kuzu no Honkai had on me as a person, and as a fellow viewer of Japanese anime. Thanks for reading my review until the end!
Disclaimer: As a fan of the romance + drama combination, I may be a biased source...but who isn't biased, as "Love will make you blind."
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
