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Nov 20, 2016
Haven’t had reviews in a while, so bear with me.
Before reading further, please be warned that these may contain spoilers. I’ll try to lessen as much as I could.
Ajin: Demi-Human, or simply “Ajin,” is the story of Kei Nagai, a seemingly normal high school boy who discovers he is an Ajin, a mysterious life form deemed to be powerful and immortal. As his existence is publicized, certain people and organizations took an interest in him, all of which has plans to use him and his abilities for their own purpose.
Tokyo Ghoul would be the first thing to pop inside your head by reading
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Ajin’s synopsis. With a great number of similarities, it’s not uncommon for a comparison. That way, people could get to weigh which is better, or build their own standard. I’ll try my best not to compare for the purpose of having Ajin an unbiased assessment.
Story: (4/10)
There really isn’t much to it. It took a hasty pace as it started, rushing to the discovery of Kei being an Ajin. Then it kind of slowed down as it progressed.
Conflicts are thrown out here and there, hoping to give the viewers a possible outcome inside their head on what would happen next. Yes, you may anticipate, but it’ll ultimately just be useless. Often, holes were left open and eventually untouched, even when you’re expecting the next episode should have covered it somehow. That is the thing that Ajin mostly lacked: a resolve. There are times that a cliffhanger isn’t effective.
Art: (7/10)
The animation is a breath of fresh air actually. Polygon Pictures took a risk of animating with 3DCG. But unlike Boku dake ga Inai Machi and Dimension W, which clearly offered smooth and great animation, Ajin can be (rather, was) easily set aside. Although the animation itself was good in its own way, there were cases that it was unsettling and had your eyes barely on the screen.
Contrary to its style though, the ending animation was quite appealing. It was minimalistic, yet reflective enough to captivate a viewer, unlike its opening that featured mostly excerpts from the whole show itself. Lazy, I may say, but it did shine its own light.
Sound: (9/10)
Usually, even a bad anime can be remembered with a great soundtrack. Take that away and you’re left with only the black cookie part of a cheap knock-off of an Oreo. Ajin clearly has put on the table an opening and an ending that fitted perfectly with the Kei’s struggle. By estimation, I’d say that 89% of people who gives an eff to an anime’s OP and ED would sing along to the ‘Yeah’ part of Flumpool’s “Yoru wa Nemureru Kai?” and have a soulful connection with Mamoru Miyano’s voice in “How Close You Are.” Furthermore, the background music and other special effects gave Ajin a fighting chance soundtrack-wise.
Character: (2/10)
The goals of the anime were all crushed and beat down by a crappy set of characters. And like what I’ve said, Ajin completely lacked the concept of a resolve. New characters are introduced here and there, shining a light on a possible great turnaround, went into a tragic mess of list of characters that may already be regarded as dead.
It had a set of characters who pretty much contradict each other’s ideas, all resulting to a lot of disagreement and eventually flamed more war.
There were characters that deserved to be significant in the series, but were just set aside, and ended like they never really were a part of it.
Izumi Shimomura had the potential of a likeable character. She was kind, amiable, compassionate, and sensitive. Unlike the main character. A major turn off from her is her total uncertainty and an innocent ignorance.
It also didn’t focus too much on Kei, considering he wasn’t really a likeable character to begin with. Who was once a reserved, goal-oriented, caring guy, had become this bland type of a main character that is messed up, undecided, and thinks in utter disorder. Okay, so we’ll have the whole Ajin thing accountable for it. But, take Kaneki Ken (from Tokyo Ghoul). At least he had an objective. (Score 1 for Tokyo Ghoul. Sorry.)
Oh, and “Kaito who?”
Enjoyment: (7/10)
Ajin promised great action. The visuals took advantage of the 3DCG and benefitted from it entirely, providing a thorough and remarkable stunning fight (and encounter) scenes that glue you to your seat and watch what happens next. Expect greatness here, action-wise.
However, although minimal, it still had flaws that it would have been prevented easily.
Overall: (5.8/10)
I really feel that the main problem of this anime is backstory. It shouldn’t have focused too much on quickly starting a war itself, rather, to show and carefully build tension. Although it did end on the edge of a cliff (literally), I still am curious as to how Kei would face the real antagonist. I might take a shot on watching its movie counterpart and sequels to grasp more from it. Until then, this would be one of those animes that would be pulled out from your favourite list.
In the end, although it consistently begged even from it itself, Ajin: Demi-Human did fulfill their end of the bargain.
Reviewer’s Rating: 6
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Dec 21, 2014
THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS
As both a fan and a hater of the show (Nice to meet you!), I pretty much seen for myself what's good and terrible of this much-talked about second season of Sword Art Online.
I would like to make 3 parts for this review (for each arc), but I don't want to bore you with more than 1 review with 1 review. (Huh?)
First, let's go with how the first season left us off. Kirito has finally got out of the Nerve Gear, and has saved Asuna who was trapped in Alfheim. After all those events, his name became known not just
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in the virtual world, but as well as reality.
Phantom Bullet is the title of the first arc (technically, third). Here, Kirito is asked (with accompanying moola) to investigate a player named 'Death Gun' who can kill a player in real life when he shoots him with his Type-54 Black Star pistol in-game from the VRMMORPG Gun Gale Online, a game that focuses on the use of guns.
The second arc is the Calibur arc where they receive an unusual mission from an NPC named Urd, which would seem to end all of Yggdrasil.
And lastly, the Mother's Rosario arc. Here, Asuna meets a player named 'Zekken' (English: Absolute Sword), the leader of the Sleeping Knights guild. This encounter would better the relationship of Asuna with her mother, along with a memory that will forever be etched in the hearts (well, technically, minds) of Alfheim Online players.
Story: (5/10)
What makes a story 'effective'? A combination of something comprehensive, and an awful lot of elaborate story-telling. This season, my dear friends, consisted just, as Australians would say, a 'wee' amount.
On the first arc, Kirito gets paid to investigate a player that could somehow kill players in real life. Sounds original? No. Why would they be surprised in the first place? Because it is 'unusual' for an AmuSphere to have that kind of effect? They already knew that someone could die in real life by dying in Aincrad, and with a few tweaks and hacks to an AmuSphere, that would become possible.
(Let's not talk about the episode 14.5 here, please?)
The Calibur arc then stirs up what's of Alfheim. Seriously? They have plots like that in the game? What would happen then if no one was able to receive that side quest? Perhaps, I should bid farewell to all the fairies.
The Mother's Rosario arc, however, had a heart. This tells the story of Yukki, Asuna's new friend, and the guild leader of the Sleeping Knights. In real life, these people are actually bedridden or have some life-threatening disease. This is a brilliant arc of love and friendship. And what actually contributed in making the series suck less.
Come to think of it, this season is actually a medical turn for SAO. (Raise your foot if you are a graduate of medical or health sciences. I!)
I have a few problems for this season, though. Despite the fact that Kirito stupidly risked his life once again, this season seemed rushed and had a lot of crappy side plots that made the story uninteresting and just plain. Not to mention how scarce the emotional part of the last episode was. I was at the point of crying, but no. You would just be left as you are: Hanging.
Art: (9/10)
During the first episodes of the show, the animation seemed different from what I loved second (Note: first would be the music) from the first season. Kirito looked different, and Asuna didn't have that 'bloom' she had from its former. An explanation for that would be the production shifting from Aniplex to A-1 Pictures. But, the succeeding episodes provides you that first season-SAO feel. I guess the production just needs some getting used to it.
I also loved the scenery during the Bullet of Bullets tournament, and how the colors turned from shady to a picturesque perspective of Jötunheimr.
Sound: (10/10)
Now, let's get to the part where it actually is interesting. Eir Aoi's 'Ignite' and LiSA's 'Shirushi' are just a few additions to the best anime themes you would ever hear. Ignite provided a massive awesomeness in introducing the Phantom Bullet arc, as well as Shirushi providing a heartfelt and emotional ending for this season. They really add to what makes an anime more awesome. (Like, Fate/Zero).
I also like Haruna Luna's 'Startear', 'No More Time Machine' by LiSA, and 'Courage' by Haruka Tomatsu. They were also themes that gave you that 'I need to listen to this first' before proceeding with the episode, or going to next one.
I would prefer Eir Aoi's 'Brainwash' or 'Utakata' (from the Ignite single) to start the Calibur arc though, but I'm not hating on Haruka Tomatsu's song, especially when it has that melodious intro.
Soundtrack were also good. Some are recycled from the first season, but were still in the most appropriate times.
Voice acting were the same: fitting and suitable. There are times though that Konno Yukki's voice sounded annoying, but still, it was good.
Character: (8/10)
In terms of character development, this season provided sufficient.
Asada Shino is the focus in the Phantom Bullet arc, the second new main character introduced this season (next to Death Gun). And for Zekken, who was the third arc's main character.
Sinon is Asada Shino's avatar. Her character, I would say, would be the best character from this season. She is full of fears and anxiety, but she tries to overcome it. By the end, it also showed that people are still afraid, even after overcoming what they fear most. It's very realistic. And, she is so cute. Nya~
This season also introduced a lot of new characters. Shinkawa Kyouji, Tonkii, and the guild member's of the Sleeping Knights.
What made it lose points though is that when they provided new characters, old characters were just forgotten and set aside. Supporting characters need enough exposure to actually 'support' a main character.
Like, that one time that Agil was just standing in the background, serving drinks, without dialogue. Seriously, people. That is not the right way to treat secondary characters.
Enjoyment: (9/10)
As a guy that plays shooting games, the first arc definitely was a hit for me. Then comes the second arc which were again full of swords, with a mention of an Asgardian god. (I'm not a fan though, as I like Captain America.)
And the magnificent story of Konno Yuuki, and how she tried to survive the complications of HIV/AIDS was just heartwarming and very emotional.
Also, as an 85%-fan, fanservice were through the roof. Yay!
Overall: (8/10)
I honestly waited for the second season of this show. Was I impressed? Yes, but not much. Was it good? Yes, but lacking. Was the action sufficient? Yes, but needs more. All in all, Sword Art Online II is another sequel that would either disgrace or surpass the former. It depends on the understanding of the viewer, as well as a fan's struggle to continue loving the show.
I should say also that I'm looking forward for another season. Why? Alicization.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Dec 6, 2014
I haven’t done a review in almost a year. So, you would think Wizard Barristers: Benmashi Cecil is ‘that’ special. Let me tell you why it ‘almost’ was.
First, the concept. You could more likely compare Wizard Barristers into being a legal representative of Wuds (people who possess magical powers) in Tokyo Year 2018. Cecil Sudou, being the youngest ever Wizard Barrister, tries to make use of her knowledge to ‘defend’ Wuds and give them an unprejudiced trial.
However, being involved with strange people along the way, she discovers more about her past, and something about herself.
Story: (3/10)
Don’t get me wrong. I would say that the
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story is ‘quite’ original as I haven’t really watched a lot of animes that involved Law in them. Or, maybe because I haven’t encountered those kind of animes, so I don’t really have a standard.
A story combining law and magic? I mean, who wouldn’t love that? And they even made a separate law, called the Magic Probihition Law, which Wuds are subject to. That really got me, especially when the protagonists casually say it just to make a statement.
Now, I was thrilled as I typed those from above, and then I thought: What made Wizard Barristers suck? Easy. That would be the story in totality. I love the law-plus-magic idea as much as the next guy, but this was not implemented well with the whole series. The story gets you thinking, “Is this even going anywhere?” Sure, the story was fluid. Sure, the story had continuity. But, for what? For Wuds to have to have a fair trial? That doesn’t really apply when you could see there is already an over-complexity between the characters themselves, which makes a case insignificant all the way.
Then, a question again popped in my head. “What made Wizard Barristers TOTALLY suck?” That, my friend, would be the pace of the story. It goes from one scene to another, having no proper transition at all. And don’t even get me started on the eye-catches.
Art: (4/10)
‘Colorful’ would be the first word to say of Wizard Barristers. The anime had vibrant colors that are such a sight. And the neon-glowing ‘circle’ thingies really add effect to the spells they use. And the CGI for the Metamoloids are relatively superb.
I think no one would disagree that the opening animation of the anime was splendid. But, like they say, you should never judge an anime with its opening animation (and theme). Really. Unfortunately, Sentai Filmworks did a terrible job with the animation itself. A lot of inconsistencies would be seen in it. Strange movements (and etc.) made the anime unpleasant to watch. I think it would’ve been better to just put your earphones on and just turn off the monitor.
There is also that one episode that looked like it was a Microsoft Powerpoint Slideshow of still pictures, with dialogue. What? The producers are getting lazy because they already knew that it sucked that they got tired of ‘actually’ doing the movements?
Also, maybe it’s just me, but it had that Saber Marionette J-type of feel.
Sound: (8/10)
For a reason that I don’t know, Lia’s themes strike me in the heart. Angel Beats! And Clannad would second that. That Lia opening was just amazing. The ending theme was also good. But the producer of the song Rui Tanabe sang didn’t get you that I-have-to-watch-the-next-episode-but-I-need-to-listen-to-this-first kind of feeling.
I think I should give praise to the soundtrack itself, as it gave suitable ambiance for most scenes, like when trials are about to start, or when the employees from Butterfly Law Offices are just slacking off. Voice actors were also good. Most notable would be Wataru Takagi, voice of Seseri Chono, which gave justice to the character himself.
Character: (5/10)
Character development was good, but it wasn’t great at the same time. There were still characters that have the right to have more background stories. There were also no explanations to how one possesses magic, or how they got this specific type of power.
And although it wasn’t clear, at least these characters are likeable. Especially Cecil who, at the same time, was the center of humor in the entire show.
There were 2 major discrepancies on it though. Who is Moyo Tento? I certainly don’t want to end the anime without having to get to know her first. And the other: WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF THOSE USELESS FAMILIARS?
Enjoyment: (6/10)
Something to look forward to in this anime would be the action. As a fan of magic-related animes (like To Aru Majutsu No Index and Alice Academy), I definitely can’t get enough of those kind of action. They were spectacular. Too bad there wasn’t much of it. Even the trials, which are something that would interest a viewer, didn’t last long enough for it to actually be considered a ‘proper’ hearing.
They just weren’t enough. That aside, they were still awesome.
Overall: (5/10)
Should I recommend this to you, reader of my review?
If you want magic and action, combined with wacky (and some, cold) characters, with Law (just an amount) being the underplot, and Lia having an opening theme, then yes.
If you want to watch an anime that is fully detailed, does not miss facts and provides broad character development with great animation, I suggest you watch something else.
All in all, Wizard Barristers: Benmashi Cecil would have been a great anime. Really. Maybe it was just the number of episodes. Or, it just lacked that ‘total feel’ which most viewers would think so, too.
Reviewer’s Rating: 5
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Jan 3, 2014
There may be some spoilers here. Sorry.
Serial Experiments Lain tells the story of Lain Iwakura, a fourteen-year old girl from a suburban place in Japan. She becomes interested in the Wired after one of her school mates that committed suicide messages her saying that she is ‘not actually’ dead, but has simply left her physical body.
Afterwards, she investigated the Wired, was drawn into it, and discovers her true identity.
(This probably is the first time I’ve watched an anime of this genre, so please bear with my ignorance. Also, SEL is pretty hard to review. T.T)
Story: (7/10)
Serial Experiments Lain is a psychological anime that tackles
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the subject matters of communication and solitude, which is naturally a crucial part of a person’s existence. They are majorly demonstrated throughout the series.
With the involvement of the Wired, a communication network, this anime shows the effect of the Internet to a person: socially, emotionally, psychologically and mentally.
Now, apparently, a lot of people think SEL has an amazing story. It’s a yes and a no. The ‘Yes’ part is that this brilliantly executed the things I stated above. This also shows the significance of friends (and other people) on that age group, mainly their support and influence.
The story, when you come down to it, goes like this: girl lives normally, girl becomes addicted to communication network (and all about computers), computer-obsessed father tolerates her, girl centers on the network, girl meets a lot of people, girl meets creator of network, girl becomes confused of her identity, girl hallucinates, girl hallucinates even more, some of girl’s hallucinations are actually true, girl understands her existence, girl meets friend In the future.
What’s the ‘No’ part? SEL presented a lot more stuff between this and that, which made the story during midpoint unclear, and gave viewers some unrelated impressions that this may be connected to this part, or this may be connected to the other.
Although, it’s part of its mystery. So, that ACTUALLY is ITS point. Still, that should not be necessary, as the anime is considered also a psychological horror, and should focus more on developing the main character and her psychological aspects, not too much on providing unnecessary scenarios that, again, would give viewers disparate impressions.
Art: (3/10)
I can understand that this is a 1998 anime.
On the other hand, Detective Conan (Case Closed) is a 1996 anime. So as Dragon Ball Z, which was from year 1989.
The character designs were great though. For me, it’d be a terrific idea to represent this into a more modern stylization.
Sound: (6/10)
If you’re looking for a soundtrack, forget about it. SEL consists of only a few compositions, inclusive of the opening and ending theme.
The opening was cool though.
Traffic, footsteps, and a few more, plus fitting voices made me rate its sound more than half.
Character: (7/10)
The only normal person in SEL was Mika Iwakura, Lain’s older sister. I liked her.
Most of the characters were annoying. Even Lain. But, at least they had participation at the right moments. Also, Serial Experiments Lain introduced a few characters. That made it less confusing on who a person is and what is his/her significance in the story. You would better understand the story if you focus more on the characters.
Enjoyment: (8/10)
It was surprisingly enjoyable. It’s like you’re eating a strawberry cupcake, and tasted chocolate. Believe me. Chocolate’s that of a big deal for me.
Overall: (6/10)
Overall, Serial Experiments Lain is a good anime, in an unusual way.
Reviewer’s Rating: 6
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Aug 21, 2013
There may be some spoilers here. Sorry.
I’ve watched this the first time it aired on Animax. I dropped it though, since I did not like the way the characters looked. Just this year, when I searched for something to watch, this came up.
Paradise Kiss is a story about Yukari’s struggle with her studies, her family, her relationship with George, and the most significant: her new ambition of becoming a model.
Story: (10/10)
The story was very inviting since only a few produce this type of anime. What’s good about it is not only did they attempt to provide enough ‘fashion’, it also showed us that
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not all the models we know became famous just by being ‘pretty’.
It had a sad ending. Really. I almost wanted to throw my laptop in mixed frustration and sadness after watching that last episode. Also, I don’t think 12 episodes are enough.
Art: (3/10)
This is exactly the reason why I didn’t watch it on Animax before. Seriously. Even I ♥ Dragonball and Crayon Shin-Chan has an even higher quality of animation than this. Cartoons would seem much more appealing to the eyes. Even if you merge all its aspects, it would still not stand a chance against the quality of animation of a fat Pikachu. It’s a 2005 anime for goodness gracious. Why is THAT like THAT?!
As much as the still shots of Tokyo that were transformed with anime-ic features looked wonderful, all the others dragged it a long way down. Here are some of the reasons why:
1) People didn’t look like they were walking. They looked like manipulated paper dolls being put to their next position slowly.
2) They had a lot pointless creatures that are pointlessly being pointless during prologues. Note that I typed that on purpose.
3) Concerning their eyes, theirs seem slightly better than those of Persona 4: The Animation’s eyes. But I’m not saying that I liked it even one bit.
4) It’s a fashion anime. Why aren’t there enough colours? Why is it that everything was so dull?
5) And lastly, this anime probably isn’t an anime. It’s just a slideshow of pictures. From the studio, to George’s driving, to Yukari’s runway appearance. Almost everything was motionless. It was terrible.
In due course, and I don’t mean to offend Madhouse Studios, its animation is a dump. It’s a failure.
Sound: (7/10)
Tommy February had a catchy opening theme. Just its title, Lonely In Gorgeous, certainly suited the show. I didn’t like the ending theme though. But I’m not hating on THE Mr. Franz Ferdinand.
Sound effects like traffic, doors opening and closing, etc., were amazing. It was really realistic. It’s like you’re hearing it in person. And the soundtrack was good, too. Even though it had a few tracks, it was okay.
Character: (8/10)
Some supporting characters that played big parts in the series were not developed well. That was really a problem. But since some of them were from the prequel (which I have not watched and don’t plan to), they must have been introduced properly there. That aside, the characters were very likeable. Like Miwako, who I think is a sl*t. Her character actually has a heart. And all the others as well. I also love how they perfectly presented Yukari’s growing relationship with all the people around her.
Now, I couldn’t say that he was my favourite, but I think Daisuke/Isabella was really the most remarkable character in the series. He was confused, came out, and was proud of himself. Or should I say “herself.” And the fact that George had accepted his sexuality way before he even came out was truly moving. Now that's true friendship.
Enjoyment: (10/10)
If you love fashion (or even think about it sometimes), you will definitely enjoy this. Especially the parts where Yukari got her first magazine debut, and the showcase.
Overall: (8/10)
Fashion. It’s rare to find an anime with this genre. Although sad, its ending was very beautiful. Regardless of its horrible animation, Paradise Kiss is one anime that will satisfy your craving for romance, comedy, and fashion.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Aug 21, 2013
Okay. So I have to be honest with this. I don’t like mecha animes. Zoids, Transformers, Gundam; no. I really don’t like them. I didn’t want to watch this at first, but then I said: “Hey, maybe it’s time to watch something different.” I thought that if I didn’t like it, I could just type it down, and let others know that I didn’t like it.
First off, the story goes like this: It’s Year 2046. Haruyuki “Haru” Arita is fed up with getting bullied because of his physicality. The effect of this: he has a low self-esteem. That is why he always logs on
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to the school’s local network, his only scapegoat.
One day, he finds his highest score in Squash get beaten by Kuroyukihime, his upperclassman and Umesato Junior High School’s Student Council Vice-President, whom he has a crush on. Kuroyukihime, or Snow Black, invites him to lunch. There, they talk about the Brain Burst Program, which Haru eventually installs in his Neuro-Linker. But, not only did he find out that it is a virtual reality multiplayer online fighting game, but also, its point system, the Burst Points, can be converted into acceleration abilities in the real world.
Story: (9/10)
In creating stories involving the future, the possibilities are endless. But it still should be presented naturally. The Nero-Linker is a good example. You’ll definitely be thinking of saving some dough just to get this device from the store. I wish smart people would invent it now.
The story’s really good. It didn’t explore too much on the other kings (which were practically insignificant at the time), and focused only on Haru and the others. A big plus point? It would be Kuroyukihime’s feelings for Haru, which we rarely (or, not normally) see in the society.
Art: (10/10)
Yes. Art. 10 points. I don’t think anybody will disagree with me on this.
Sound: (9/10)
Between the first and second opening, I’d say that Altima’s Burst The Gravity fits the show better. It has that vibe that unquestionably gave the second part of the series a revolutionary introduction.
Sachika Misawa’s Unite was good. It suited the second part of the series since it showed us Kuroyukihime’s point of view in some matters. Kotoko’s Unfinished, on the other hand, fitted the show much better. If you have heard it, you’ll know what I’m talking about.
The soundtrack overall is great. It has that futuristic feel that makes you want to turn up the volume while watching each scene (especially fight scenes).
Character: (9/10)
Though some characters were not developed well and were not dealt with properly, it was okay since Haru and Kuroyukihime were the most important pieces of the series.
I love female protagonists who have black, long hair, and are cute and beautiful, which makes Kuroyukihime my most favourite character in the series. She’s really beautiful. And I love how she reacts sometimes when around Haru. She may have been a major contributor to why I loved the series.
Enjoyment: (10/10)
I have to say this again: I dislike mecha animes. But it’s fine now. Accel World gave me a change of heart. [Insert tears and sobbing].
Overall: (9/10)
I dislike mecha animes. Really. I genuinely thought I wouldn’t like it. I was wrong though. I have to say that I’m really hoping for a second season.
A great animation, unforgettable scenes, the developing love story of Haruyuki and Princess Snow Black, supplied with almost-perfect timing of gags, Altima and Kotoko’s opening and ending themes, little mysteries, and metal versus metal, Accel World may be one of the best mecha animes I’ve watched thus far.
Oops.. Make that “the ONLY mecha anime I’ve watched so far”.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Jun 17, 2013
There may be some spoilers here. Sorry.
Misaki Ayuzawa is the first female student council president in Seika High. She’s smart, caring, looks out for the girls, and a tyrant, but only to the boys. She calls them ‘savages’. Not only that, she hates men.
As she tries to keep the school from getting any more worse to the eyes of the public, and at the same time maintain the discipline of all the boys, she meets Takumi Usui (not for the first time, though).
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama! is about Misaki Ayuzawa’s efforts as she tries to maintain her grades and keep the school in order,
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while trying to keep her part-time job at Maid Latte as a maid a secret, which from Takumi Usui’s viewpoint, who suddenly becomes aware of it, is his ‘secret entertainment’.
Story: (10/10)
With romance and comedy successfully combined, Kaichou wa Maid-Sama’s story about Misaki Ayuzawa’s struggles between her job at Maid Latte to support her mother and sister, and maintaining her status at Seika High while keeping her job a secret, except to Takumi Usui who unexpectedly knew about it, I don’t think the succeeding events will not make you crave for what you’d like to happen.
Between the first part and second part, neither were less interesting than the other. In fact, the gist of it was the first part was Takumi falling for Misaki, and the second part was Misaki finally falling for Takumi.
Since I absolutely love friends to end up together in the end, I could say that Takumi is still the one for Misaki. I’m sorry Hinata.
In the end, the sequence of events in Kaichou wa Maid-Sama were perfect. Absolutely perfect.
Art: (7/10)
The animation was fine. It’s your common type of animation.
What I didn’t like from it was that they really focused on colourful and creative backgrounds, which became annoying later since I prefer seeing the school, or Maid Latte, even the outside of Misaki’s house, in the background instead.
What’s good about the animation was that it truly complimented the comedy. From being chibi to becoming a monster, it boosted Kaichou wa Maid-Sama’s comedy through the roof.
Sound: (9/10)
“Douka, please can you keep my secret?”
I definitely love how Saaya Mizuno’s My Secret was unchanged from the first part to the second part of the series. It suited the anime very well, considering Misaki’s life story.
I also really liked heidi’s Yokan, which is a great ending theme for it, giving the viewers a look on Takumi Usui’s point of view. The second ending theme was good, too, but I still prefer Yokan.
The soundtrack also consisted a lot of good compositions. Thumbs up for Wataru Maeguchi!
Also, almost all characters’ voice actors suited them well. I said ‘almost all’ because I didn’t like Hinata Shintani’s voice. It may have suited his way of behaving, but it didn’t make him stand out much.
Character: (9/10)
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama has a very funny and wide cast. All characters, even minor characters, will provide you with laughs. It may be that some supporting characters were not given enough exposure, it just makes you focus more on Misaki’s and Takumi’s sweet relationship.
My favourite characters would be those two, Hinata Shintani, Shouichirou Yukimura, Sotarou Kanou, Suzuna Ayuzawa, Shizuko Kaga, The Moron Trio, Satsuki Hyoudou, and Black Honoka and the girls from Maid Latte.
Enjoyment: (10/10)
I don’t think there is one non-enjoyable moment in Kaichou wa Maid-Sama. Nuffsaid~
Overall: (9/10)
All in all, this anime gives you the right amount of laughs, romance, and enjoyment. With the romance of a headstrong Misaki and a perverted alien (Takumi), Kaichou wa Maid-Sama! will not leave you unsatisfied for 26 episodes.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Jun 16, 2013
Amnesia is a story about a nameless female protagonist who travels to different worlds in order to recover her lost memories and also to find out more about the people around her and about herself.
In response to what most reviewers who gave Amnesia low scores, I decided to watch it. I wanted to watch it for the reason that I could prove to those people that this deserves at least an average score.
Sadly, I didn’t feel it myself, too. There was nothing. There was no spark. As I was on episode 3, things started to get messy. I wanted to drop it as soon
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as possible. Still, I wanted to finish it, hoping to find some good parts. But, to no avail, I just had my hopes crashing down.
Story: (2/10)
Story? As much as Amnesia has one, just forget about it. It was confusing. For me, all I witnessed was the protagonist’s desire and sickening thirst for almost all the male characters in the story. Imaginatively, if I may add.
One thing that really got to me, to the point of actually wanting to stop myself from watching this, was the cards. It had no connection whatsoever to the story. They added it not knowing it would just mislead the viewers even more, trying to make them think that those cards would make sense in the end.
Also, as much as I love to solve mysteries, the mystery here isn’t worth solving. I don’t know if it’s because of the story that is out of order, or because it just can’t be solved.
Kento’s part of the story, which for me was probably the best and sweetest part of the whole series, only lasted for one episode. It was disappointing. And just as I was about to start to like it.
And what’s the deal with its ending? Where is the protagonist’s real world? What’s it like? Why the hell would they leave it unseen and unexplained?
Art: (7/10)
Regarding the animation, although it had bad parts where it didn’t feel right, it counterweighed almost all the negative parts of this anime. It didn’t deserve the amazing opening and ending animation it had.
Sound: (5/10)
The opening theme ‘Zoetrope’ by Nagi Yanagi was good. It really complimented the opening animation. The same goes for the ending theme ‘Recall’ by Ray. And the soundtrack also consisted some good music.
Character: (2/10)
The main character, is very unlikeable, and is not, I repeat, IS NOT compatible with any of the male leads. None of them. There was also no good quality you’ll see from her. I would like to blame her loss of memories for it, but it just made her even less interesting.
Ukyo. His story kind of reminds me of Homura’s story (from Puella Magi Madoka Magica), where she tries to save Madoka from dying plenty of times, only making her condition even worse.
A likeable character? Just Kento.
And lastly, what the deal with Orion anyway? He was useless. He didn’t give enough justice to the series, or even complimented the main protagonist herself. And Lord Neil is no better. Both were practically insignificant.
Enjoyment: (1/10)
With an annoying and infuriating female lead, a bunch of awfully weird-dressed guys, extremely bitchy and horrible female antagonists, non-important side characters, a mystery not worth solving, a story lacking sequence, and an unclear ending, I don’t think the word ‘enjoyment’ could be applied to this anime. Nuffsaid~
Overall: (3/10)
To watch Amnesia is up to a viewer. Don’t judge an anime by its opening theme because as much as that was very appealing, you wouldn’t get the satisfaction you’re after. Amnesia is just another anime ready to be criticized.
Reviewer’s Rating: 3
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May 16, 2013
AKB0048 is a story of a group of girls’ dream to become a part (some, as successors) of a famous all-female entertainment group AKB0048, or 00 for short.
Story: (9/10)
A group of girls that rebels against the government thru entertainment and music? What a stupid idea. It’s so stupid that it actually turned out wonderful. Planets, under the entertainment ban, are dull and lifeless. Entertainment is their only catalyst. I can now imagine how bad our lives would be without entertainment.
AKB0048 has this excellent storyline that begins with a small piece, progresses, and links up all of the characters’ stories but still maintains those small
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parts. What’s even better is that those small parts turned out to be the principal elements of its entirety.
With the ending, where the main characters get to stay on their home planet for a very little time, to meet a few fans and to, again, say goodbye, to sing a song while going on board the Flying Get, was a great way to end its first season. And ending with some mysteries still unsolved and an announcement of a new general election is just really harsh that it makes you want to watch the second season immediately.
Art: (9/10)
Seriously. People should really stop me from watching animes that have this kind of animation. And people reading this should stop, too.
With an animation like that, I don’t think you’d settle for another anime that is animated with less quality. (Whoops. P.A. Works fan talking.) AKB0048, together with its superb production, plus some 3D graphics, will really allure the viewer to watch it repeatedly. Two thumps up for Satelight.
Also, both the opening and ending animations were really exceptional. You’d be amazed just by watching it. It was also really impressive to see those choreographies danced by the girls in the finale.
Moreover, from dull, dead, and gray, turning into these striking, vibrant, and not-too-vivid colours made it really worth the view and easy on the eyes.
Still, I found some errors (mostly, in the finale) that made it lose a point for me. At around one time, the backgrounds weren’t moving, some characters looked a bit odd, and the movements (dancing, singing, and common body movements) were not in sync (or maybe it’s just my copy). Also, there was this instance that it looked more cartoon-ish than anime-ic.
CGI was good, too. But, in some episodes, it looked like a video game, rather than an ‘animation’.
Sound: (4/10)
I am not a fan of AKB48. In fact, I didn’t know them before watching AKB0048. After watching the show, I started reading about them in Wikipedia.
A few songs, like River and Aitakatta, were used frequently and were sung from time to time. It just got to the point where it sounded aggravating. They should’ve used more songs. Worse is, the soundtrack mostly consisted with more AKB48 songs’ instrumentals. It just wasn’t reasonable. AKB0048 deserves more songs and musical scores.
Despite all that, there are a few songs that are actually good, like Shout Out Diamond, Sasae, and both the opening and ending themes (by NO NAME) Kibou ni Tsuite and Yume wa Nando mo Umarekawaru. These are just a few of the songs from AKB0048 that will make you forget the rest of the soundtrack.
Character: (8/10)
For me, my favourite characters would be Chieri and Nagisa. (Well, mostly Chieri.)
Chieri Sono is the daughter of Zodiac Corporation’s CEO, a major military supplier for the DGTO. From the looks of it, Chieri has the biggest risk in joining 00. Unlike Nagisa, whose father is just an official in the Anti-Entertainment Admin.
Chieri was also the most evolving charater in the series. From a cute, little fan, to a mysterious, competitive, negative thinking, doesn’t-want-anybody-in-her-way, then to the friendly and looks-out-for-her-friends but still maintains her competitiveness type of girl. She was just the most amazing character in the show. Her straightforward attitude (but has a deep meaning behind it) is also really venerable.
Also. Nagisa and Suzuko were the prettiest girl in the series. And Sonata was the cutest.
All characters were very likeable. However, some characters, like Makoto and Suzuko, were given less performance than the others. Even Tsubasa had a bigger role than them. Characters, main or minor, should be given the right exposure and adequate appearances.
Enjoyment: (7/10)
Enjoyment from this anime is average. People who will definitely enjoy this are those who like to watch musicals (TV series, movies, etc.) What made it more enjoying (for me) must be EveTaku’s fancy karaoke.
It had some boring instances, forced jokes, and don’t even get me started AGAIN on the repetitive songs. So, ultimately, the word “Enjoyment” is just for its story and characters (and some songs).
Overall: (7/10)
Overall, AKB0048 will manage to capture the viewer in the beginning, will push you away in the middle, and pulls you back with the last episodes.
Also, as much as this anime looks like it is for ALL ages, it isn’t. With gun pointings and shootings, bombs, lying, bathing suits, and girls under the age of 15 participating in combat, should not be viewed by young people. This SHOULD NOT be mimicked.
All in all, AKB0048 is worth watching. Just don’t expect for a lot of hilarious jokes and songs, okay?
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Apr 25, 2013
True Tears is an anime that centers on Shin’ichiro Nakagami, the male lead of the story. He is friends with Hiromi Yuasa since they were children. When Hiromi’s parents died, she was taken in by the Nakagami Family. With that, Shin-chan (what Shin’ichiro’s mother call him) struggles and at the same time develops even stronger feelings for Hiromi.
He meets Isurugi Noe in an unfateful encounter. Shin’ichiro begins to get closer to Noe, and develops affection for her.
Story: (6/10)
“The you inside me is always crying. I wanted to wipe away your tears. But I never got to know the feeling of wiping the tears away from
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your soft cheeks.” – Shin’ichiro Nakagami
Those first lines. Those sweet lines will reel you in instantly.
It was emotional. Most of it. The story was wonderful. It had a good beginning. And with each passing episode, you’ll be wanting some more. But, unfortunately, when it got to the falling action, it made it less interesting. Truths are revealed, friendships got crushed. It was unexpectedly expected. When the Mugiha Festival came in, it will draw you in again. Then, after that, it will drive you back down. It had that intermittent up-and-down feel that will make you love and hate the storyline.
Oh, and two words: Bad Ending. Its ending was depressing. I hated it! Hate, hate, hate. I simply hated it.
Also, watch out for Raigomaru and Jibeta’s story. It is heartwarming. It was impressive. Thumbs up on Shin-chan for that.
Art: (10/10)
P.A. Works. That’s what encouraged me to watch True Tears. P.A. Works did an outstanding job animating Angel Beats!, so I thought that I should watch more animes produced by them. And it didn’t fail me. The one thing that you will certainly love about True Tears is that its animation is perfectly done. Splashes of water, a chicken eating a sausage, a chicken flapping its wings, flowing of sweat, walking people with shadows following them, a motorcycle, basketballs, dancing with props, the sea: all of it was impressively done. Even the ending animation, where everybody was in chibi form, was very admirable. I expected nothing less from P.A. Works. Two thumbs up.
Sound: (10/10)
The music will carry you away. It fits the moment, and will really capture you. It really compensated the not-so-good plot of the series. Hajime Kikuchi is definitely the one to praise.
Aira Yuuki has a beautiful voice that sounds right for the ending theme. I like eufonius’ opening theme, too. It was very melodious. But when I heard its instrumental, plus Hajime Kikuchi’s numerous instrumentals of Reflectia (with a different title, but sounds about the same), it sounded much better.
My favourites would be (in order): Mujaki sa wo Senaka ni, Orange ga Ochite Iku Toki, Madobe ni mo Tareru Shoujo (Violin Ver.), Kagami, Kimi wo Utsushite, and Kokoro Kasanete. They were all very sweet and easy on the ears. Ichijin no Kaze sounds cool, too. And Aburamushi no Uta, Noe’s song, is so adorable.
Character: (3/10)
Most of them were awful. Really. The only character you’d love is Noe.
I found a photo in this link: http://i50.tinypic.com/2mfdg09.jpg. That actually sums up your description to the 5 main characters.
Shin’ichiro was not very likeable. Yes, he’s good-looking; Yes, he’s nice. We already know male characters who are like that. And these male characters are oblivious to the feelings of the female characters around him. Sounds familiar? Yes. It does. That’s why you’re going to expect something different from him, something that will separate him from others. What you’ll like about him though is that he is a writer in need of an inspiration. He wants to produce a story book. And as he meets Noe, he becomes motivated to continue on pursuing his dream.
There are other characters that didn’t play big parts, but will make you hate them on purpose. Kanae, Aiko, Jun. They are just a few of the characters that you will dislike, no doubt about it. Noe was amazing and remarkable. She will touch your heart. She was really moving.
On the other hand, Shin’ichiro’s bestfriend, Nobuse Miyokichi, besides the fact that he was terrible at the beginning, will get you attached to him for the reason that he is going through an unrequited love. (Oh, you can relate? Lol.)
I also wanted to see the other supporting characters a chance to get more exposure. I know they’re just supporting characters, but they still deserve to be seen.
Enjoyment: (8/10)
Aside from the negative parts of True Tears, you will enjoy watching it some ways you could not explain. There are funny scenes, there are heartbreaking scenes. It will surprise you that it managed to make you watch it up until the end.
Overall: (7/10)
Overall, it’s not as bad as it seems. All you need to give is the right appreciation. It may be that True Tears is not different from any other harems that you have watched from the past, but it still manages to separate itself from others.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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