- Last OnlineFeb 16, 2022 3:17 AM
- GenderMale
- BirthdayNov 15, 1996
- LocationAustralia
- JoinedOct 23, 2013
RSS Feeds
|
![]()
Nov 17, 2013
Gekkou ("Moonlight") is about the relationship of a pessimistic boy and a 'perfect' girl, who are united from a murder case. Nonoymia, the male lead, is trying to escape his boring and orthodox life, with his only comfort being his imagination. Whereas Tsukimori, female lead, is the well renowned and school-beauty. Nonomiya finds a notebook belonging to Tsukimori, which contains a scrap piece of paper titled ‘Murder Recipe’. But these ‘recipes’ are just scenarios that may or may not lead to fatal accidents. Upon planning to dismiss the ‘recipe’, Tsukimori’s father dies from an accident. On the surface, Gekkou is about a fatal misfortune leading
...
into a murder case. As progression occurs the plot moves away from its initial intentions and voyeurs into something different.
One point that makes the novel interesting and unique is the lack of universal morals and laws. The characters act out of personal reasoning as there is no 'wrong' answer, if they can justify their actions. Because of this the characters have a sense of maturity despite still being growing children. For Nonomiya, the typical thing would be to not take the idea of ‘perfect girl’ Tsukimori, being related to the murder recipe seriously. But for him, the ‘murder recipe’ couldn’t have been better, since it’s the first time something out of the ordinary has happened in his life. As well as the truth that no one else knows the unknown side of Tsukimori. Their relationship of the two is founded from the initial case which changes from anonymities to a sense of affinity between them. Rather than the changing in ethics and morals, the characters go through conflictions of their own beliefs. Conflictions are overcome by fighting for their own sense of righteousness. Individually each character is an enjoyment to read, but their true personalities shine when they are together; by talking metaphorically and witty there is never a dull moment.
There are only three secondary characters worth mentioning; Usami, Samejima and Konan. Usami, she is a straight forward and ordinary classmate of Nonomiya’s. Samejima is a female senior at Nonomiya’s workplace, but has an abrasive and self-cantered personality. Konan is a detective and due to his similar thought patterns with Nonomiya, they become rivals. These secondary characters are all likeable and advance the plot in different ways. They all have different relationships with Nonomiya, which gives him more insight of the world around to base his decisions from. There is only a single character acting as the law and that is Konan. His job is to find the murderer of Tsukimori’s father, but becomes more interested in Nonomiya. They drift off from the typical murder investigation to a battle of wits and survivability. Tsukimori also benefits from these side characters, as they give hints to Nonomiya’s personality.
While the plot is intriguing, the characters overshadow the plot at times. Not to say that the plot is inconsistent, but rather the characters become more than the plot, which is enough to lose focal on the story at times. The murder plot doesn’t essentially revolve around the murder, but instead the protagonists involved. Thus the characters become of a greater relevance to the murder case than the actual mystery, making it appear that the characters have a greater priority. While this isn’t an issue, it’s just to say that Gekkou isn’t plot driven.
The writing style is concise with short explanations and uses the bare minimum to engage one into the story. The novel is short despite many events occurring and thus immense detail is cut into shorter and more abridged sentences, usually containing metaphors. For example, the concept that Usami is the ‘orange juice’, while Tsukimori is the ‘wine’, says a great deal. While some might not be able to take it all in one sitting, reflecting over the ideas presented is pleasant. The reader is pushed to the focal point of the story since each argumentative point for solving the case is countered. Because it breaks logic of society to some extent, it is obvious author is aiming to break into a specific ending to satisfy the audience.
There are still a few unsolved mysteries at the end, which may be dissatisfying to some. The overall development keeps the reader’s mind attentive and imaginative throughout the course of the novel. While it is short, the style of writing is concise and every page is entertaining. Highly recommended, especially since the light novel has been translated into English and other languages.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
What did you think of this review?
Nice
 0
Love it
 0
Funny
 0
Confusing
 0
Well-written
 0
Creative
 0Show all
![]()
Nov 10, 2013
Before getting into the review, let me say that, Zetsuen no Tempest is heavily linked with the works of William Shakespeare. The Tempest and Hamlet are the two pieces used and having some prior knowledge on these two texts does help fully appreciate Zetsuen no Tempest. If you have an indepth understanding of both of the plays you'll be able to notice the similarities and predict some scenarios beforehand. However, the anime does a good job of not making it a prerequisite and thus the general audience will be able to follow. Simply put, the major difference between the two is that; Hamlet is a
...
tragedy while The Tempest ends happily. There are many references of the two pieces, while the plot and characters are heavily influenced from both The Tempest and Hamlet.
The first episode sets the up the plot and wastes no time in getting into the action. From the episode, it's evident that there are two main complications. The first is of the death of Aika Fuwa (Mahrio's sister), and Mahiro is trying to hunt the killer himself. The second key plot is about the Kurasibe Clan. Hazkaze (female lead) is stranded on an island, because Samon (Kurasibe Clan leader) wants to awaken the Tree of Exodous. Simply put, there is the possibility of an apocalyptic-type destruction to occur if the tree is awoken from its slumber. The two stories approach closer and closer, as the series progresses only to tangle into one bigger picture.
Zetusen no Tempest does a good job of making it appear more complicated than it really is. The basic plot is covered with mystery and psychological elements which are used to disrupt the predictability. New aspects are continuously added to create unexpected moments and attempt to confuse the audience.
Zetsuen no Tempest has a lead dual protagonist, of equal position, which is pretty rare and difficult to pull off. However it manages to do it exceptionally well and thus characters Mahiro and Yoshino are appealing. Mahiro started off as someone who was blinded for revenge, but only to become more mature and calm than at first. Yoshino appears as an innocent bystander, but as the story progresses, the perception of his character changes. They give mutual assurance to each other as arise, which helps advance the story. Their relationship starts as friends, with some background to it, but changes overtime. Bonds are tested by issues and complications arise which can only deepen or break friendships.
Hakaze Kusaribe is a sorceress and the strongest one in history. Hakaze isn't as central as the duo but still went through some growth and change. Her selflessness was the most evident part of her personality, and thus it goes through the biggest development. She is the strongest magic user and thus becomes an invaluable person in most of the situations in combat. Her relationship with the other characters can only grow after being in isolation for so long, and she begins emotions she hasn't felt before.
Secondary characters weren't as influential but they were important to the initial advancement of the story. They each had a role to create a complication, helping the main characters mature. They played apart in conversations and various narrations. But towards the second half, they began to lose their purpose as the main plot was becoming uncovered. Their roles started declining and becoming almost generic, like a backdrop to the scenes.
The latter half of the series lacked what made the first half so special. In the first half , the predictability was never there because the characters were indefinite. They still weren't fully matured and thus could do the unexpected by, having a change of heart. The plot was also purposely undeveloped but flexible allowing it to potentially stray off into any direction. In the second half, the general plot was revealed and thus it loses its charm of secrecy. However, it does a solid job of maintaining the major mystery of Aika's death until the very end. Zetsuen no Tempest had the choice of either ending as The Tempest or Hamlet. Though I won't say how it ends, the one it does choose is rather forcible.
The use of magic brings a supernatural theme, but takes away some of its realism. And thankfully it did not go over the top with the use of magic. Its primary uses were for combat, destruction and for some odd bits and pieces. It wasn't a major part of the anime, but instead adds another dimension of possibilities to the already flexible plot.
The depressed atmosphere goes well with the world ending theme. There was little action in general but for the small pieces of combat were animated nicely. The fighting scene act as a change of pace from the rest of the anime. There was a good amount of it, never too much or too little. The art-style looked good and consistent throughout. While the character models depicted the personalities of the characters. The soundtrack worked well and only enhanced the mood.
In the end the anime handled itself well and its ending that ties up the ends. The series as a whole, balances all the components, and has an excellent cast of characters. Although the first half is noticeably better than the second and attempts to force a specific ending, but no doubt it was worth the watch.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
![]()
Nov 9, 2013
The basic concept of Psycho-Pass is a dystopian society where freedom becomes controlled and limited. The system, Sibyl system, is able to determine ones "Psycho-Pass" by accessing the mind of an individual instantaneously. Psycho-Pass allows an individual's likelihood of committing a crime in the future to be recorded and measured. It seems like ideal in the name of justice, however finding loopholes in the system can throw society into dismay.
Psycho-Pass explores many social and psychological themes. The concept of punishing someone because they have the potential to do wrong is explored regularly. Should someone be punished because someone has the thoughts but never act upon
...
them? How does having a different state of mind effect one's Psycho-Pass? Emotions are repressed to not be able to feel negative emotions, as the majority of the criminals are emotionally unstable. The job of the police force becomes restricted; if they attempt to think like the criminals , it only increases their chances of becoming a criminal. Because of these limitations in life, living becomes restricted.
The primary male protagonist, Shinya Kougami is an enforcer who is obsessed with Makishima, and cannot move on without setting things right. An Enforcer is a rank in the police force, whose job is to be the 'dog' and sniff out the criminal. Kougami's character development is practically non-existent. This is because Kougami has his sight set to the end of the road, shown by his justified and unwavering personality. Thus he is already established into someone who knows what he is doing from the get go. He is intelligent, rational, logical and is a capable fighter, which doesn't leave much room for development. Instead Psycho-Pass relies on the development of Akane, and to some extent, the secondary cast.
The female lead, Tsunemori Akane goes through moments that change her perspectives on society as she tries to find her purpose of life. Her main influence is from Kougami as she shows admiration for his resolve and detective skills. Akane's own ideals are not as clear nor well developed enough to understand the choices made by some characters. Her lack of understanding the situation clouded her judgement. Shown her conflict for the Sibyl system, it brings harmony but restricts freedom, and becomes confused. However, once she does find her resolve, she has an interesting and drastic change in character; making her as capable as Kougami and Makishima.
The antagonist, Shougo Makishima is political criminal who takes advantage of the faults that lie in civilization, structured by the Sibyl System. Similarly to Kougami, his character is already developed and takes on his own ethics of freedom. But to obtain his view of 'freedom' he must go against the law and order of the Sibyl system. His actions are purely brutal, but he sees no wrong in his own actions as they are 'normal' to him. Kougami's and Makishima's thought patterns are constantly compared since 'great minds think alike’. They become natural oppositions, but have different viewpoints of justice.
The growth of a single individual is not enough for almost any 26 episode series and thus Psycho-Pass turn its attention towards the secondary characters. Majority of the secondary cast have a back story, which differs in length. But these characters serve as a backdrop to more smaller and personal issues, and have a minimal role in the bigger picture. It does a good job of creating affinity to specific figures who excel from the rest of the secondary cast, but they still don't compare with the main cast.
There are some negatives with Psycho-Pass, such as the slow start. It takes time for it to build up and create development and the latter half of the series is better. The first half is broken into detective cases which some feeling dragged out and have uninteresting antagonists. The cases really exist to demonstrate how formidable Makishima is, and thus the lesser antagonists are squandered. The message is the same throughout the 22 episodes and some episodes are made specifically to enhance the idea of freedom versus the Sibyl system. Psycho-Pass never leaves this concept, but instead expands it into fine detail. While it is an interesting idea, it could have explored other areas of human nature for at least some of the 22 episodes.
The art style goes well with the dark tone of Psycho-Pass. Close up shots have a bigger effect on tension, while long range shots influence the atmosphere. The medium shots aren't anything special and the character models, at times, are lacking in quality. The soundtrack is good, and offers a lot. There are pieces which contrast to the moment and others which captivate and enhance the situation. The 'openings' and 'endings' look and sound brilliant.
Psycho-Pass is definitely worth watching and purposely didn't reveal all its cards for the chance of a second season. It does have its flaws but it is still a unique anime which explores the mental state of human beings.
"The law doesn't protect people, people protect the law." -Akane
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
![]()
Nov 7, 2013
Suisei no Gargantia voyeurs off into something different, from what it originally suggests from the first episode. A vast collection of ideas are collaborated, but bringing together such an abundant amount of concepts in a short frame of time, doesn't do itself justice. Consequently the anime is left unrefined and falls into a continuous decline, squandering its uncharted potential. But in the end, it still remains a decent anime.
It is apparent that Suisei no Gargantia had alot of potential, from just the first few episodes. Beginning in space, fighting against the alien race, only to be shifted into an opposing world, of conflicting ideals. The
...
situation brings out promising character development in which the cast of characters must follow their own ethics. And the first half of the series achieves this extremely well. Ledo, the main protagonist, is constrained to the lifestyle of the Earthlings which can only create a change character. Having previously been living a life of nothing but fighting for the sake of fighting, adapting can only prove difficult to such an unfamiliar habitat.
Other characters do not go under such serious characterization but are given a chance to understand the unknown universe from Ledo. Amy, the female protagonist, is more or less like an accomplice, acting as a catalyst to hasten the change of Ledo's character. She does so by inflicting her own ideals, onto Ledo. Despite Amy meaning to be a main character, her character lacks in many areas, only to make her appear as a guide to Ledo. Similarly, majority of the rest of the cast seems as if they're purpose is to either advance the plot or assist Ledo's change in character. Which is disappointing since it feels like Chamber is the only character achieving more than the other characters. Chamber advances the series, and breaches the limitations of human nature to explore and understand the unknown.
But suddenly the development becomes passive and Suisei no Gargantia flips upside down and starts declining. The light-hearted atmosphere disperses with the introduction of the main complication. While the storyline remains intact, for the time-being, the characters show minimal development. Secondary characters, do move away from the shadows of Ledo and into the light temporarily, but they lack empathy. In the end the camera is fixated on Ledo and Chamber, from start to end.
Artistically, it is beautiful from the start. The contrasting worlds are both equally portrayed. The galactic universe is gloomy, dark and vast, showing that the universe is grander than we could grasp. Meanwhile the world of Gargantia is floating on a layer of shimmering water, which only strengthens the feeling of serenity and peacefulness. The environment is greater than the character models, to an extent. Not to say it is lacking, but it's not outstanding. Individual primary characters look well, notably the eyes. The eyes had something about them which really leaped out from the rest of character, which is a rarity. The emotions of the characters can be felt, especially of the primary characters. But the effect dims down towards the end as there was a noticeable drop in quality.
The soundtrack enhances the atmosphere by focusing on the use instrumental pieces. The relaxing music only builds the tranquillity and peace suiting the situation. At the halfway mark there is an abrupt change in styles, which instead aims to build tension and drama. Although it is satisfying, you can't help but feel disappointed by the change, when becoming accustom to it.
Overall it's not bad, and it has done a good job of not feeling rushed despite being only 13 episodes in length. This is probably due to a fair bit of the potential storyline being left out, which could of expanded the plot and concepts of humanity. It was disappointing that it didn't reach its capability, but Suisei no Gargantia still has its charms.
I personally see Suisei no Gargantia about the difficulties a character faces to fit into society, but there a more than one viewpoints.
Reviewer’s Rating: 6
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
![]()
Nov 5, 2013
Guilty Crown is one of those anime's where there are a wide cast of opinions. I have personally have had some enjoyment with it, not because of the story, but rather of the transformation of society and the characters. The major criticism comes from the poor characters and that the plot kills itself. Admitingly by the end of series the anime is drowning, concluded by a poor resolution and isn't in tune of the rest of the anime.
Majority of the character cast is bound to hated because of their irritating attitude and irrational thinking. Empathy was meant to be created for the characters, however it
...
simply does not happen because of the anguish felt towards the characters. Shu, the leading protagonist, has a complete transformation of characters which is astonishing when comparing him with the character at the start. Despite this change there is still a feeling of remorse of the character because of his overall negative character.
Visually it is up to scratch, which is expected from such a hyped anime. The action is fluid and the changes of settings are interesting but not very meaningful in most cases. However, the settings become duller and duller as the series progresses due to limitations and becomes a draw back.
The soundtrack is by far the greatest inclusion of the anime. It ranges from a soft melody to intense pieces of music. Guilty Crown is full of perfect music, and used effectively to enhance the moment.
Guilty Crown has more downfalls than positives, especially with the plot and the characters. Despite this you'll likely watch all 22 episodes because of expectations, which are unfortunately never met. Guilty Crown could of been a masterpiece but falls as it loses its sight.
Even if you don't end up watching Guilty Crown, at least listen to the soundtrack.
Reviewer’s Rating: 6
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
![]()
Nov 4, 2013
Well, here we go...my first review, I'll be going right to the point, not going to summarise the series as it's in the description.
The story has surprisingly little action especially considering the fundamental concept is action-related and could of potentially been made into an action anime. Instead it relies on the story telling, plot and dialogue to maintain and create its appeal to the audience. Because of this, the sheer amount of dialogue makes the physical action appear non-existant. This could be a 'turn-off' for some however the script is necessary for the story development. The simplistic plot and structure allows for flexibility and creates
...
unexpected plot twists, and does so repeatedly.
They art style could initially be uninviting towards some viewers, but once you grown accustom to it you sink into a unique pictorial book. The animated picture book contains simplistic characters set against a characteristic background.The motionless background acts as the stage for the crisp and fluid animation. "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players".
Not much to mention about the sound/music, as it is pitch perfect. The instrumental melody harmoniously dissolves into the world of Katanagatari.
The focus is less on the idea of becoming 'stronger' and instead takes on the concept of 'growing and maturing'. With Shichika starting as a character oblivious of the outside world and its morals, changes with every sword he collects. Togame herself goes through characterization from her egocentric personality to an extent. But of course to achieve the final goal, becoming stronger is a prerequisite but is almost second nature to Shichika due to his natural talent. Togame and Shichika integrate with one well another forming a pleasant and entertaining relationship which blooms throughout the series.
The long dialogue which shadows the action could be off-putting for some, but those who manage to stay with it are rewarded. The art and sound are the highlights of the anime, but the art may take some time to get use to. The characters themselves are unique and complement one another well. The basic plot itself isn't the most interesting but it is transformed into something bigger and deeper.
"life is a journey, not a destination"
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
|
