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- BirthdayNov 16, 2000
- LocationPerth, Australia
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May 8, 2019
Warning. This review contains spoilers.
STORY - 7
ART - 8
SOUND - 9
CHARACTER - 8
ENJOYMENT - 9
Without a doubt, Gakkou Gurashi hit me hard. I took a dive into the show with some knowledge of its unconventional twist while still expecting a less serious, more silly vibe just because it looked cute, but that was too optimistic of me. Yeah...too optimistic, indeed.
It all started in a happy-go-lucky kind of way. A new day welcomes the child-like Yuki as she readies herself to emanate happiness once more in her beloved school, which happens to be her living place too. But that's inherent for all the members of the
...
School Living Club: a club dedicated in activities encouraging self-governance and independence. Anyway, it's a peachy place, and the familiar sweetness fills my heart up. Maybe even a bit too much, but Yuki kept distracting me with her bright energy. Energy that's pleasant enough to take her cute club members and friends along. Energy that's lively enough to chase after an adorably smart dog. An energy that's deceiving enough to completely alter her perception of the real world—a world of a zombie outbreak—and from there on, the sweetness takes on a different taste.
A bittersweet kind. And it's heavy to take in.
That revelation was palpable to me, despite me already knowing about the walking dead setting. It was an instant make-over. What should've been a school full of youthful bliss has become a gloomy haven—a club room barricaded against the infected dangers that constantly surround these girls. Their peers are the undead. The atmosphere stifles with a seriousness way too different to that of the exam period. And Yuki's rosy view on life hints of a deeper trauma that's desperately trying to cover up the jarring truths.
It's these juxtapositions, thanks to the first episode's subversion, that Gakkou Gurashi heavily relies on to mould its part-moe, part-horror story. At its greatest, the duality is highly effective in terms of creating an emotional resonance within me, which I'll go into soon. But the show is also threading on a delicate balance between dark and cute here. With the significance of its flashbacks and subtle uncovering of truths to gradually reveal information of how the world came to be, where the girls came from, and the severity of their circumstances, having to be distracted by the more carefree slices-of-life doesn't bode too well with my immersion. In other words, the show sometimes ends up mixing comedy into seriousness rather intrusively.
That said, being intrusive is the show's minor downside as when the situation is appropriate, which is for the most part, the bittersweetness accentuates the sweeter feelings to heart-tugging levels. From the hardships, a tight-knit friendship is strengthened between all the members of the School Living Club. And with friendship, the hopeful spirit to survive is brought about, where living becomes much more meaningful than giving up. The fact that the girls try to live their lives just like any other day, despite the cruel world, is the main reason why I've become so attached to them. At the same time though, that very attachment also aches the heart; ever more heavily as Yuki's psychosis slowly shatters away to reveal the poignant realities and as the dangers begin to lumber into their fragile safety.
Visually speaking, Gakkou Gurashi constructs its art with the same contrast I've been talking about: you have the cutely designed girls—and a dog—living in a school environment reduced to a post-apocalyptic look. Zombies reflected on the broken window panes. Zombies stumbling about in the distant backdrops. The visual is a reminder of the harsh bittersweetness that constantly challenges Yuki's brighter delusions. Even more so, the way Lerche utilizes censoring—at most showing only blood and corpses—proves effective in getting its harrowing message across. The subsequent implications between scenes are enough for me to draw my own conclusions and leave behind a void in the stomach kind of feeling that draws out all positivity; positivity that could only come back by the more endearing interactions and expressions in the slice-of-life moments.
Now, I don't think the show had to necessarily employ a moe aesthetic. The girls could've been designed any other way and the overall story won't change, but as someone who adores the cute girls style, they probably wanted to intensify the emotions from people like me. Which I'll just say has worked way too well.
With sorrow in mind, the soundtracks further elicit the brighter and darker feelings. There's this one musical box theme, "Kyou wa Oyasuminasai" translated as "Good Night For Now", that really defines the show's auditory experience, where it has the sweet nostalgia that's pleasant to the ears, but the steady rhythmic notes—like the thump thump thump noises of heartbeats—sound distressing at the same time. These kinds of melancholic pieces play throughout the show and if my heavy responses are any proof, they are important components in the show's crafting of emotions alongside the voice-acting.
At times, sweet. At the other, bitter. But most certainly, bittersweet. Gakkou Gurashi has been one emotional roller coaster that tugged hard at my heartstrings. While not without its flawed distractions, it's still a show that narrates why hardships and zombie apocalypse is a duo that will never leave the rule of storytelling. So much so, that by the end of it all, I just want these girls to leave this nightmare and have sweet dreams once more.
For a warm rest is what they deserve after their many struggles.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Feb 16, 2019
STORY - 8
ART - 8
SOUND - 8
CHARACTER - 9
ENJOYMENT - 8
Cathartic in nature, GochiUsa is a heartwarmer that has its roots in providing contentment—similar to the relaxation one can feel from sipping freshly-brewed coffee. With an ample amount of lovable charms and a cuteness as cute as the twitches of a bunny's nose, it's the ideal to show to hearten oneself. I mean, just look at my smiling face!
But let's be clear first. The show doesn't have the most imaginative story as it follows pretty much all the things other CGDCTs have. Instead, it's in its setting—a town with European resemblances—that gives GochiUsa a special
...
kind of appeal. Elegant, idyllic, and traditional, the town's architectures are adorned by timbered buildings and cobbled streets, making it a breath of a fresh air away from the usual high school setting. Really, it's the perfect environment to have some joviality. Like an "on cloud nine" kind of thing. And you can find out just how peaceful this show can get when you enter the Rabbit House, a café where caffeinated aromas linger about and where plenty of lightheartedness is waiting to be met.
A place full of endearments is inviting me.
After being greeted by the gentle Chino, who has an odd fluffball of a rabbit atop her head, Cocoa starts a new life in the town by working as a Rabbit House waitress. From there on, she meets the other girls, all of whom are equally as adorable, and this is where the euphoria begins to seep through my heart. There's no deep drama. No major conflicts. The setting has already established a tranquil state-of-mind prior to everything else, and that peacefulness continues to emanate throughout every episode. As a result, all the activities the girls do here—working at their cafés, partaking in silly fun, or developing their friendship and sisterly bonds—are enjoyable to watch. The fluffy atmosphere simply blankets their interactions in a way that makes me want to cuddle them.
Or "Mofu mofu~!", as Cocoa will adorably say.
There's also one other aspect that elevates my fondness for the show. That is, each one of the girl's personality reflects the beverages in which they're named after: hot cocoa for Cocoa's comforting sweetness, cappuccino for Chino's mature and childish duality, Thé des Alizés for Rize's cute tendencies despite her strictness, uji matcha for Chiya's refined elegance, and the Kilimanjaro coffee for Sharo's insecure sensitivity toward her own image. So if you think of GochiUsa as one wholesome café, then the girls are basically its warm, little beverages. Endearing, isn't it?
And to further paint the soothing image of the show in your mind, the art—while more on the average side animation-wise—utilizes its soft pastel palette harmoniously in conjunction with its visual design. I already talked about the architectural beauty of the town, so let me expand on that by saying the numerous outfits, sweets, and expressions here are some of the other things that give more delight to an already delightful setting. It's like what they say—appreciate the little things in life. Because as tiny as the aesthetic details may be, they all add up together into one pleasant whole that makes the show continuously fun to bunny-hop through each second along the way.
The soundtracks deserve a mention as well, as they too contribute to the easy-going atmosphere. Whether they're the fairytale-like or the restful tunes, all of them share the commonality in rejuvenating one's heart and soul, and to highlight the lovable voices of the girls at the same time. You can certainly say the audiovisual has inspired the affection within me.
At the end of the day, GochiUsa is a show that personifies what happy serenity is all about. It may have used the same kind of ingredients found in other CGDCTs, but the comfort it creates with its town setting and affectionate girls is distinct enough to be appealing—a charm that I like to compare with the refreshing, sweet, and tranquil atmosphere of a café.
Start your day with coffee. End your day with this heartwarming show.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Jan 23, 2019
STORY - 8
ART - 8
SOUND - 8
CHARACTER - 9
ENJOYMENT - 9
Okay. Let me first say that the gayness in Yuru Yuri is more of a thing to embellish the main comedic core than what I'd call real romance. But hey, it's still a fun CGDCT show! And the other dated definition of gay means cheerful anyways, which fits the show, so yeah...I guess it's actually quite gay!
When there's a school club, and it's rightfully termed the Amusement Club, you know a whole lotta mischiefs are awaiting ahead of you. Mischiefs inside their club room. Mischiefs in the comfort of their homes. Mischiefs pretty much everywhere!
...
For Kyouko, the founder of this amusing club, all she wants in life is to simply have fun and do whatever she wants. And you can bet that wild antic of hers ain't stopping anytime soon, as she drags Yui, Chinatsu, Ayano, Chitose, Sakurako, Himawari, and more girls down her fun-filled life. Little did they know they're about to undergo the wonderful process of yurification...
Ah right, there's Akarin too. Let's be sure not to forget about this poor girl~
Anywho...where was I? The characters? Souka. Yuru Yuri is basically a hilarious mash-up of personalities given life in true moe fashion. Messing about and triggering all kinds of silly gags, those are really the only things they do each episode. It's just like what the name of their club implies: a show dedicated solely to amuse us and themselves, or well, Kyouko mostly. Because all these fun hilarities are emphasized against your typical slice-of-life setting, it's easy to indulge in their playful banters and get a giggle or two here and there...at worst! At best, you might wanna relax your lungs in case an uncontrollable laughter is about to ensue.
As if the comedy isn't enough already, the show thrives on its sweet girl-love moments, giving extra amusements, increased affections, and...uhh...some suggestively lewd stuff through Chitose's poor vision and nosebleeds. But I promise, it's nothing too extreme! About the only sexual thing outside the realm of imagination is with the whole oppai gag between the love-hate Sakurako and Himawari. Other than that, the yuri undertones here multiply the endearment to a whole another level. Packed full with flusters and blushes, the show is definitely not afraid to crumble me down with the power of kawaii.
While all these dimwits are great comically, I'm also fond of those heartwarming bits where things tone down slightly. You know, unless you love to be on the verge of death laughing all day long. Yuru Yuri's more level-headed girls, such as Yui and Ayano, have their moments where they talk good things about their friends and it's wholesome to see these slices of warmth. Even Chinatsu, a cute girl who may or may not be harboring some crazy personality, has her own moments too. It's not much, but it's certainly enough to get me more attached to them.
And life wouldn't be so much fun without its colorful shapes and sounds! Eyes so round they'll put a circle to shame. Voices so cute hearing one episode is enough to meet your daily sugar intake. Expressions so funny you'll...well, I'm sure you get what I mean already. All I'm saying is the chibi-looking art style, smooth animation, visual gags, emotive voice acting, and light background tunes work well together to create such a fun atmosphere. Even if they didn't put in any heart effects, it still feels like you can see hearts all over your screen. Truly the works of Moe Moe Kyun!
By the way, beware of the catchy opening and ending songs. The use of consonance with the show's name may give you earworms.
So yeah! What else are you waiting for? Go on and enter the Amusement Club and meet all the amusing girls of Yuru Yuri as they spend their days doing fun things together, with some enjoyable bits of homo-cuteness of course! It's about time Akarin greets you on the title scre—Oh...
I forgot to talk about her, didn't I? Whoopsie~!
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Jan 17, 2019
STORY - 7
ART - 6
SOUND - 7
CHARACTER - 8
ENJOYMENT - 8
Bandori has a soul that is emboldened by its quest to discover music—and it's that initial encouragement that swept me along Poppin'Party's ride towards becoming their own band. After having seen this, I can say that while it may not be the most perfect show out there, it's still an origin story filled with plenty of sparkling and heart-pounding moments.
To form the all-girl band called Poppin'Party, Kasumi—an oddball who has an energetic heart and a voice that blissfully melts my heart—has to meet the other members first, and earlier segments of the show introduce us
...
to them. We have Saaya, a caring older sister who helps out with her family's bakery; Rimi, a timid choco-cornet-loving girl; Arisa, who is adorable because of her gap moe tendencies; and Tae, the dorkiest and most comical one of them all. At first glance, their tropey demeanors can come off as being too vanilla, but I'll assure you this. Those basic traits of theirs will eventually pave to way to some sincere development as they realize what lies ahead in their musical ambitions.
Before I get into the character development though, there are points throughout the show where the story gets quite shaky. Like the creators know how the plot points will chronologically line up, but didn't put in enough effort to make them flow more naturally. As a result, some scenes—mostly the sedated humdrums—feel out of place when they're shoehorned in the storyline. And those scenes can be distracting, considering the character development here rely a lot on nuances and subtleties.
It's not to say all these small interactions are meaningless. In fact, most of them are genuinely enjoyable to watch, and not just because they're heartwarmingly cute or humorous. With the constant focus on how the girls' dynamic with each other evolves through their actions, thoughts, and exposure to music, their flaws and personal issues are slowly revealed, and this is where Bandori sparkles the most.
Because the show is grounded with no overly ambitious goals, the changes Poppin'Party go through feel realistically intimate. Everyone has their own worries to deal with, as is the case with Rimi's anxiety, Arisa's social awkwardness, Saaya's burdens from her past, Tae's general apathy, and Kasumi's optimism causing her to become oblivious of her own self. And it's through the start-up of their band—with support from each other and their family—where they learn that they can overcome these things that are stopping them from seeking out the beat they've been looking for. As they practice, they discover more about themselves along with the wondrous prospect of being in a band together—and it's a development that's very fulfilling to see.
Art-wise, even though I find it could've been done better, the vibrancy at least works well enough with the narrative elements. There are stills and pan shorts here and there, with some odd-looking eye placements, but there are also scenes that look beautiful in the character-defining moments. The CGI isn't half bad either, as outside of the occasional off-model ones, it captures the fun energy from Poppin'Party's performances
Speaking of performances, the musical direction taken by this show is mostly low-key, with soundtracks that complement the relaxed atmosphere quite nicely. The insert songs are definitely the most notable ones, considering they characterize who Poppin'Party is as a novice band. It helps that the creators chose to go with a raw live feel rather than using the version from post-production as it makes their songs sound even more authentic to the ears. From a rough and basic start to a more delightful result, their music resonates together with their development as a band.
Looking back at everything once again, Bandori might have started off feeling uncertain, but its direction took for a better turn with its evolution towards an emotionally engaging story on Poppin'Party's origin. They sparkle from their meaningful development and friendship. They make my heart pound when they perform. And I'm definitely proud of what they've learned before becoming such a lovable band.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Jan 12, 2019
STORY - 7
ART - 7
SOUND - 7
CHARACTER - 8
ENJOYMENT - 8
There is no stopping the furies of mother nature. Destructions with uncontrollable capacities, natural disasters are a wake-up call to humanity, leaving behind ruins that signal a time of healing and strengthening to those who survived through such an ordeal. Rising up from the rubbles, Tokyo Magnitude 8.0 is a story about reality; one that reveals the facets of humanity as it gradually explores the aftermath of a seismic convulsion.
In the sultry annoyance of summer, an already sour middle-schooler by the name of Mirai is unwillingly dragged to a robot exhibition that her younger brother,
...
the optimistic Yuuki, wants to go to. Because reality appears to hate her and due to some family circumstances, Mirai has a nihilistic outlook on life, and in one random moment outside the exhibition center, these pessimistic thoughts of hers seems to come alive. Amidst a dead silence, the swarm of fluttering birds warns the coming of a colossal beast. As if to break her unhealthy perception of reality, a magnitude 8.0 earthquake has suddenly arrived...
...And just like that, the whole world shook.
With Tokyo crumbled to a demolished state and casualties spiking up to the thousands, it's clear that this disaster has become a large-scale crisis. After getting saved by a single mother named Mari following the mainshock, these two antithetical siblings along with their motherly guardian head off on a difficult journey to reunite back with their respective families. Through this precarious endurance, they confront a world ripped to the very core of humanity; growing up and changing as the struggles of reality unravel in front of them. The story did take time to build up momentum and there are times when the pacing needlessly drags on with uneventfulness, but the result of their development becomes clear nearing the final leg of the journey.
Mirai starts to reconsider her pessimistic attitude towards life, bit by bit gaining a deeper sense of understanding of the whole world upon experiencing its fragility. The happy-go-lucky Yuuki learns more about the reality of the situation outside of his innocently bright interpretations. And Mari serves as a strong role model for these two children, comforting and protecting them with parental devotion. The more they walk, the more their interpersonal relationship strengthens them as people as they encounter what the emotional qualities of family, life, and death mean within the wreckages.
But despite those clear portrayals of humanity, sometimes the story backtracks with its own realism. The attempt to create tension, more contrived than natural, is definitely the biggest flaw for this show. There's this habit where the children go through a streak of moving towards obvious dangers, only for an ill-timed aftershock to arrive and prove the danger, then always getting saved in the nick of time that really questions if they've forgotten what they've learned from previous life-and-death experiences. Especially when they're close to reaching their home. The suspense just feels artificial and brushes aside their delicate changes all for some goosebump moments.
Returning back to the realism, the art, while plain and basic, fills the world with natural colors perfect for a metropolitan setting. Well, at least one that's changed to a fractured condition with smokes everywhere, wrecked buildings scattered around, and jagged fissures split across the ground. Significant in size, the sceneries drive home the horrific scale of this natural disaster, and it's not hard to realize why it's such a life-changing event for the main characters. Which speaking of them, the animation fluctuates quite a bit in quality, but it's generally solid enough to capture their movements. The CGI crowds, however, might need some time to get used to, though the rescue robots do look great.
Other than the melodramatic music that blares during the forced tension, the sound details are generally well-done, with the quieter audio such as the silence and piano tracks stirring emotions more authentically. The voice acting puts on a convincing expression, particularly for Mari as her soft voice exposes the gentler sides beneath her durable exterior. Then there are also the diegetic sounds such as the media reporting on the state of disaster, making everything feels more worryingly genuine.
And it's that realness—the recognition that the story told in Tokyo Magnitude 8.0 can happen to anyone—that gives the show an emphatic human quality despite some of its setbacks. The time after a catastrophic earthquake is the time of rebuilding, where people gain a better understanding of reality and where the endurance of survivors manifests itself as one of the greater aspects of humanity. This show really is a powerful reminder.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Dec 29, 2018
STORY - 10
ART - 10
SOUND - 9
CHARACTER - 10
ENJOYMENT - 9
Adventure—a chance to break out of the uneventful cycle of monotony and really get to experience the wonders of the outside world. It's when the vast imagination of your mind syncs in unison with the body and spirit that'll take you to your destination, and when you have that, you'll get the motivation needed to place your first step forward.
Your first step forward towards A Place Further Than The Universe.
Humans have always had that inherent drive to explore beyond our current limits. We hear these remarkable stories of the times we set our eyes on
...
the most extreme places on Earth to the void of outer space, and after countless numbers of struggles and challenges, we reach those places. We reach them. And this time around, we're going to reach it again—a place located directly south on the polar continent we call Antarctica.
In a sense, this show is a tribute to all of our greatest endeavors in exploration. Every step the story undertakes is one grand build-up to an expedition that's just as remarkable as those other stories we left behind; a story that wonderfully captures our ubiquitous desire to explore beyond the horizon, fostering fun and inspiration amidst the many obstacles along the way. The full realization of what an escapade can offer to you is what makes this show so breathtaking. It will give you an intimate perspective on a brilliant tale of adventure, friendship, and independence. It will provoke a strong sense of wanderlust inside you. There is an exciting journey ahead of us, and you bet it will convey to you just how beautiful that journey is.
Taking place during the youthful stages of life, the initial episodes first introduce us to four high school girls, all of whom differ in their motives, but are united under a sole purpose to reach the Frozen Continent. Soon, that unity will prove to be crucial on their long journey ahead. They realize that there are difficulties abound: doubters who make fun of them, rejected requests to go on the expedition, and other mishaps that challenge their success. But these are all part of the obstacles they've to overcome together in order to grow; the things that come with what they've chosen to embark on. To discover the potential within themselves. To find out what else lies outside of a tired lifestyle. To understand the warm closeness of a true friendship. In essence, this show isn't really about Antarctica. It's more about the life experiences one can gain from a potent adventure, and how they can grow up from there on.
So, off they go on this coming-of-age voyage, with their youth in motion.
And they did grow up along the way. These four goofballs, who are also lighthearted as they keep getting tangled up in all kinds of smile-inducing antics, grow up in such an authentic and fulfilling manner. They learn from the guidance of the adults in the expedition team, who have experienced just how harsh this expedition can be, and the reveal of their past—both for the girls and the adults—beautifully segues into their current self who continues to move forward. They experience many emotional hardships together, but stayed strong over the course of the journey as their friendship for each other deepens, all so they can finish what they've started and reach Antarctica—A Place Further Than The Universe.
All so they can utter the words "Thanks for taking me" when they reach the end of this unforgettable adventure.
An adventure that's painted through the use of incredible visual directing. The story and characters would've been amazing in their own rights if they were just words alone, but the art gives off that invigorating energy that really gets us engaged with this journey. It seamlessly fuses between their fiction and our reality, as the prominent lighting illuminates their facial expressions and the stunning sceneries, and as the dynamic animation brings life into their world that will always go on. As if it's saying to these girls to keep running forward, so it can continue to highlight their progress towards the final frontier with its aesthetic beauty.
Day after day, the sounds of their footsteps persist in a periodic tune; never fading out and always moving onwards. The noises of their travel, from the jolly amusements to the poignant emotions, are backed up wonderfully by a musical composition filled with larger-than-life qualities. It's the power that any spectacular music has in overwhelming our feelings; and the great voice-acting along with the swelling scores this show has, they also have the power to overwhelm our feelings, making it an adventure that's truly touching to experience.
Yes, it truly is an adventure, and it's one that wholeheartedly embraces the juvenile rawness of our youth: the time between childhood and adulthood, the time when the world still feels unknown, and the time of growth through the experiencing of new things in life, like meeting those people who you can call your friends. Simply profound and captivating, this is the adventure we call A Place Further Than The Universe.
Let's embark on it.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Dec 15, 2018
STORY - 9
ART - 8
SOUND - 6
CHARACTER - 9
ENJOYMENT - 9
See, the thing about young love is that it brings out our inexperienced selves. Many of us turn into an awkward, flustered, and cringey bundle of foolishness because we have no idea how to initially go on about a relationship, but despite the embarrassments, lovebirds will try to make their relationship work together. That's the part that touches me the most and Tsurezure Children shows us just how endearing that quality is.
A simple change on a fluffy anime genre is all you need to describe the heart of the show: Cute Couples Doing Cute Things.
Romantic
...
love is multifaceted as there is virtually a limitless number of ways two people can fall in love with each other. It's the reason why love is such a complex thing, and Tsurezure Children manages to explore the diversity of this powerful emotion in a very heartwarming way. Rather than focusing solely on one couple, we are quickly introduced to several ones. It might have been a recipe for disaster to have a large variety of pairings in a short anime, but thankfully, the show understands how to treat every relationship with light care. Each episode delves right into the many ways romance can affect different couples, and because of this constant switching of perspectives, the wide assortment of lovey-dovey exchanges leads to an engaging story. Really, it's a simple show, but the fact it knows how to keep itself dynamic and fresh at all times—with a healthy dose of cuteness—makes it easy to indulge in its light-hearted atmosphere.
As playful as the show is, there are also some angst and mild drama to be found here. Remember, young love can be a constant struggle because of this thing we call inexperience, so it's obvious not every relationship will be smooth sailing. It might be frustrating to see some of the couples seemingly return back to their status quo when you know their infatuation for each other is strong enough they should just get married already, but it's all part of the reality the show wants to communicate to us; the things that love can entail to young people including the problematic sides. Setbacks can happen in a relationship and Tsurezure Children is not afraid to show that, which makes the experience even better when the characters learn from their mistakes to develop further. For the most part though, the show is like a velvety wedding cake with a great comedic flavor and enough sweet personality to die for—all of which are the ingredients of enjoyment.
And just like the simple narrative elements, the audiovisual lies in the same basic spectrum too—but it works for a show like this. You can easily distinguish every character even with their straightforward designs and the visual is fluid enough to capture the feelings of being love-struck. The soundtracks, on the other hand, are really light they're honestly forgettable, but the voice-acting is a lovely accompaniment to the vast amount of personality, whether it's for the comically flamboyant or the awkwardly shy.
So, all things considered, Tsurezure Children is an ideal anime for those looking to enjoy some young love appeal in the form of a short rom-com. It's heartwarming yet believable at the same time, and the diverse range of relationships works to unite the complex feeling we call romantic love into a simple heart-shaped sweetness. Seeing all the affection bloom in this show has definitely been a pleasant experience.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Nov 30, 2018
STORY - 8
ART - 9
SOUND - 9
CHARACTER - 9
ENJOYMENT - 9
Right. Let's talk about Kill la Kill. If there's one show out there that will proudly take the title of 'Extravagant Craziness', then this show will do just that and display it in a blinding beacon for the whole world to see; while being bare-naked in fact! Or to put it another way, it's basically an extraordinary trip through everything that you can find in an action anime.
My reaction, or set of reactions I should say, from the first episode can be extended throughout the whole show. That one single episode is honestly enough to
...
outline what Kill la Kill's explosive entertainment is all about: a condensation of bewildering, eccentric, exciting, loud, crazy, eroticized, flashy, and wacky qualities. And there are 24 episodes of that. I think it's easy to visualize just how wild of a ride this was.
So, without further ado...
Enter Honnouji Academy! One crazy school where powerful clothes decide your social hierarchy and shouting like a maniac is everyone's favorite pastime. You can find a nudist teacher who has nipples that glow a purplish pride, all kinds of not-so-normal clubs, and a strong student council called the Elite Four that's led by an even more strong girl named Satsuki here. Yeah, a pretty weird school to be enrolled to but worry not! Beneath all of these stylized absurdities, there's an actual story that knows how to intensify common battle tropes to entertaining levels, with a chain of events that never fails to leave me excited for the next one.
Ryuuko Matoi is the protagonist we're following this time around. After circumstances led to her finding Senketsu, a sentient sailor suit who grants her great powers, she's now able to start an arduous journey and challenge Honnouji Academy, the place where she can find the answers to the murder of her father. A loner at first, but gradually accumulates into a girl who is reckless, badass, easily embarrassed, and earnest all at the same time, she personifies what it means to be a well-rounded female lead. The first half is particularly essential to establish the crazy world of Kill la Kill, although the seemingly constant clashing does make it a bit draggy at times. However, it's still important in providing a background to the parentless Ryuuko; most importantly, in how she grows up to being taken in by an eccentric family. She might look like someone who only has an attitude to fight anyone for her own benefit, but when you see her softening up to caring people, blandness is definitely not a part of her characterization.
Of course, other characters are also here to steal the show. Not a single one of them are what you should consider to be normal people. Just imagine what it's like when a show has a large cast of unrestrained quirkiness—with all boasting their own crazy fighting style and personality—then let them duke it out wherever they go. Hopefully, what you imagined is a fast-paced battlefield full of exaggerated entertainment. From tough people like Satsuki and the Elite Four, to the weird exhibitionist teacher I mentioned before, and even buffoons like Mako, everyone weaves together into an overall thrill that's simply engaging to experience the whole way through.
Another thing worth mentioning are the overarching themes that are entwined within Kill la Kill itself. The family stuff I've discussed already is perhaps the most notable one, but things like fascism in Honnouji Academy, womanhood through the female characters, and the fashion of the clothing powers made of Life Fibers—which serves as another pivotal mystery in conjunction with the murder of Ryuuko's father—are some of the other topics that are present here. These underlying connections to real-world society may be glazed by over depending on how much knowledge you have, but if you pick them up, you'll realize there are a lot more interesting layers to this show than just mere exaggerations and fan services.
Then there's the art. Yep. The one that's responsible for giving the show its own distinctive style—and it's marvelous to look at. The cel-shaded appearance exudes so many great personalities, with Trigger using a large number of visual techniques such as warm red tones, magnified expressions, bold typography, blinding rays of light, bizarre clothes designs, physics-defying animation, dramatic speed lines, and a mostly well-blended use of CGI to go all over the place; anywhere and anytime it wants. As simple as that. It embraces chaos and it's not afraid to be chaotic, which makes up for a lot of exciting action scenes. The only thing that slightly diminishes the show's fast-paced nature is with its tendency to repeat certain scenes, but they aren't detrimental enough to ruin the epic cinematography.
Similarly, an arrangement of booming soundtracks can be heard alongside the visual, another technical aspect that packs an energy to turn the over-the-top levels up to the highest elevation. Most notably for the character themes, every time the tracks start playing in the background, you'll know it's time for the scenes to get some majestic propulsion. And I also have to say. This show is loud. The characters are loud, the battles are loud, the comedies are loud. Roaring is what it will always blast and there's never a dull moment around when you have that for the entire run-time.
In the end, Kill la Kill is a crazy show, but it's crazy good. It takes everything that is great in an action anime and energizes them up like an adrenaline rush, making for an entertainment that's a blast to watch through. Just don't lose your way watching this. Stay on the path for the entire ride, because you're about to get fully pumped-up.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Nov 26, 2018
STORY - 9
ART - 9
SOUND - 10
CHARACTER - 9
ENJOYMENT - 9
Honestly, it's not easy to concisely describe just how vivid the second season of School Idol Project is. A beautiful outburst of the soul. A melodic magic that lifts the heart. A lyrical expression full of emotions. These words are close enough to express how I feel but really, it's better if you listen to µ's ("Muse") once more. Because as the saying goes:
"Where words fail, music speaks."
Every journey will always have a start and an end; and within it, there will always be a story. The story of µ's began as a school-saving solution,
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and through the passing of time, their journey is reshaped into a sincerity that speaks of passionate wonders, of incredible friendship, and of valued memories. The second season is a continuation of that. With the third-years' graduation quickly drawing near, the end of µ's seems nigh, but it doesn't stop them from making sure their last experience is a meaningful one. The next destination is the second Love Live! contest, and they will make sure to give everything they can to reach that grand stage.
This is the culmination of their experience together as a school idol group.
Most of the things the first season has are still here: the fun comedies, the expressive enthusiasm, and the adorable interactions. But to reach a bigger stage than before will require a bigger effort from each member. So this time around, we're given more of their roles as school idols, while also bringing a developmental spotlight to those who didn't get much focus from before. It continues on with unlocking each of the nine member's influence on one another. Whether it's to come up with a new song or to support the ones who want to break out of their shell, they will always be there for each other.
It's this strong focus on µ's as a whole that makes the second half of their journey more emotionally invested, particularly during the latter episodes when everything converges towards a bittersweet reality. Even in the show itself, the collective support from their school, family, and fans is enough to realize just how incredibly special the group is. At this point, they're not just there as a musical entertainment. They go beyond that—into an authentic devotion of hearts shared by everyone.
Rivals such as the sassy A-RISE knows fully well of this special ability of µ's to capture the hearts of all who sees them. It does give the Love Live! contest a bit more of a competitive side, but more importantly, it's proof that µ's has grown so much ever since the beginning. All of their charming qualities, from hard work to dedication, become a tangible routine of colorful dancing and beautiful singing. And with a better CGI animation to go along with a vibrant stage, enjoying the various performances is something that can be described as a natural immersion.
From the uplifting yet melancholic "Snow Halation" to the rosy "Aishiteru Banzai!", Love Live! can definitely pride itself with its lovable music. Many of the songs here are thematically relevant to what this season is trying to express, which is the positive message of hope and love that I'm sure a lot of you have heard already in your life before. But to be reminded of it, especially in an endearing fashion, will always be a plus side to me. As for the general visual, it's the same adorable art that I've grown to love, and I don't think that needs to change.
When I reflect back on my journey with µ's and School Idol Project, I really couldn't have asked for more. The second season, with its authentic emotions and lasting impressions, is enough to solidify the reasons why I'm their fan now and why Love Live! is a dear franchise to many people out there. If you want to be a part of that wonder as well, give µ's a listen.
Many music and memories are awaiting you.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Nov 18, 2018
STORY - 8
ART - 8
SOUND - 10
CHARACTER - 8
ENJOYMENT - 9
They're an icon. The symbol of friendship, hope, love, passion, and music admired by those who have seen them. They will show you that enthusiasm and dedication do pay off. They're µ's ("Muse"), an ensemble of nine harmonious members. And they're the idol stars of School Idol Project!
I'll preface by saying that I first dived into the Love Live! franchise just looking to enjoy some catchy songs and CGDCT. Which I did get. All of those are right here in this show. But there's also something else—a special quality that draws a motivational and inspirational
...
angle on what seems to only be a cute entertainment at first glance. It draws me in because it's not easy to find, but once it's realized, we will shoot for the stars.
It is called passion.
For the energetic Honoka, her passion is sparked when her beloved school is in risk of closing down upon a decreasing number of yearly enrollments. To form a school idol group; that is her answer. It's ambitious. It's difficult. It's almost like a fantasy. But she and eight other members will soon find that µ's is their passion. And they will head off on a journey to make people smile, to have fun, and to enjoy being together with those who share the same love as you. Embellished by a rich optimism in a world of musical superstars, this is what School Idol Project is all about.
What brings the best enjoyment out of this show definitely lies in the large cast of cute characters. The story plays it straight with no deep complexities, so it allows us to focus solely on the girls. They're the gears that unify a charming and lovable group. An additive effect. Group antics are entertaining to watch and µ's is basically an adorable embodiment of fun friendship. But not all are just happy moments.
At first, a lot of the members have their own hindering circumstances before they join µ's and the group does face large obstacles along the way. While the resolution is cheesy at times, the roots come back to the one main thing that holds this show together. Their passion. No matter how difficult the obstacles are, no matter the results—success or failure—they will continue to practice hard and dedicate themselves to their dream with smiles on their faces. Even when things seem to change for the worst, their shared passion and love put them back on the correct path. To be passionate about something will always come with reasons. For them, it's not just to save their school. It's also to go up there onto the stage and to perform the best as they can, for themselves and for others. Because in their hearts, they know that this is what they all wanted to continue doing: To be the best school idols out there.
So, when they stand up on the stage to perform a wide variety of spirited songs, you can see their hard work paying off. The mix between 2D and 3D animation might take some time to get used to, but soon enough, it'll become familiar and you can enjoy the dancing choreographs among the colorfully bright atmosphere. Gleaming eyes, enchanting smiles, adorable clothes, and energetic movements. Their emotions sync together with the gorgeous notes from their voices and altogether, all of these features turn their live performance into a stage that's truly fun to experience.
Even when they're done performing, living casually as high school girls, it doesn't stop them from sparkling up with vibrancy. Both the evocative art and the buoyant soundtracks help to give many endearing qualities to µ's. They know how to make me laugh and to make me enjoy their overall enthusiasm. It's simply wonderful. I also have to mention that I lost count on how many times I wanted to say "So kawaii~" at them. Just so you know they're not only passionate, they're also too sweet for my heart to take.
School Idol Project really went beyond what I've expected from an idol anime. My interest for the appealing songs and the girls transformed into an admiration of their passion, perseverance, and power to pursue their goal through and through. The Love Live! franchise has created µ's, the face of tuneful entertainment, so give it a chance to be their audience. Maybe you'll resonate with them as much as I did.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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