As an older, heterosexual male I avoided Asagao to Kase-san as a "non-traditional" romance.
That being said, this is the most (true) romantic anime that I have ever experienced. Then sense of caring and intimate stumbling that occurs in any long-term romance is so on spot.
Anime most often pictures the dance of romance as a misunderstandings and embarrassed withholdings of personal information (i.e., RomCom) ...
Asagao to Kase-san is human ... i.e., it shows both that embarrassment as well as the longing ... coupled with the willingness of the protagonists to commit in the moment.
When Yamada-san runs for the train station and leaps
...
Feb 3, 2022
Ryuu to Sobakasu no Hime
(Anime)
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Here is why you want to watch Ryuu to Sobakasu no Hime multiple time:
This is a fantastic/beautiful/well paced movie with a few flaws BUT you watch it for Nakamura Kaho she sings and voices Suzu/Belle (note first time voicing ... very unique) I believe that Nakamura-san is a once in a generation artist much like is the Jimmie Hendricks or Bob Dylan or Lady Gaga or ??? of this current generation of artists ... take time to go and listen to her evolving sound and you will, I believe, here a artist who loves sound and music and is constantly evolving her art. Note: I think this is ... 
Dec 14, 2021
Takt Op. Destiny
(Anime)
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Just completed episode 11. Have a few thoughts on what might add to this story if/when there is a season 2.
1) need more foretelling for the viewer to understand Anne's interest in Takt. 2) Sagan (as was Schindler) is an "evil doer" ... why ... help the viewer see complexity in villians 3) The best thing in this story is the love between Takt and Cosette/Destiny ... need more focus here For some reason Takt Op. Destiny brings to mind Re:Creators ... beautifully done, great sound with interesting characters. Unfortunately, for me, the "gaming" roots of our story is currently keeping it from doing ... 
Dec 12, 2021
Mieruko-chan
(Anime)
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hmmmm ... this is not your traditional "horror story" but is better termed a "psychological drama" IMO.
I believe this story is about how an adolescent girl learning to trust her intuition while also learning that that she the people and things that she perceives can also evolve. E11 is, IMO, a masterpiece. Miko wants to protect her friend Hana and is sure that her sensei is "possessed" and in some sense, he is, by the ghost of his mother. But he is a more complex character who cares about "cats" while wanting to please his mother. This episode is not about Miko "saving" ... 
Sep 9, 2021
Shiroi Suna no Aquatope
(Anime)
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First off, I believe this slice of life is a hidden jewel. Having lived in a slow paced aquatic setting for a number of years, I can attest to how the slow rhythm and pace feels very natural to village life with a splattering of tourists. What I like best about Shiori Suna no Aquatope is:
* the beautiful aqua colored artwork * the broad set of characters who are broad, believable and like able. * a full range of young and older adults * fantastic magical realism that underlies and symbolizes the Aquarian’s purpose and worth. Additionally the magic of the aquarium has a layered ... 
Aug 15, 2021
Koi to Yobu ni wa Kimochi Warui
(Anime)
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Wow ... A true jewel and masterpiece!
First, I need to address the elephant in the room. I avoided Koi to Yobu ni wa Kimochi Warui (Kiokimo) for a couple of months because of the "old-guy/young-girl" story line. That was my loss due to my truly "prejudging" the story. Ryou is a slick 27-28ish successful guy when we meet him who is too pushy, self-absorbed, with little awareness of the feelings of others. But, he is also deeply drawn to someone for the first time in his life. He is also, though emotionally pushy, not someone who would physically push himself on a ... 
Jul 24, 2021
The Sky Crawlers
(Anime)
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Summary rating: This is a hidden masterpiece that might be opaque for viewers. It may require multiple viewings to fully understand the story arc and character motivations.
That being said, this is not a story for those who prefer fast pace, anger symbols and rolling on the floor embarrassment. * Pacing is Ghibli Studio like with pauses for characters to think and react. * Beautiful and realistic artwork, creates moods very well * The main characters are slowly revealed in depth * Aviation flying and combat are realistic and can be ... |
