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A rather solid short film that caught my attention as an artist myself. There were a few times were I laughed and related with the main character's anguish, their struggles to improve, how long it truly takes to get good at art and making something of yourself. The comments made by Fujino's parents and peers were especially on point! How they applaud all your efforts and say you'll be an amazing artist someday, that you'll be making big money in this career so on so forth. It was fun to see Fujino finally meet who she considered her rival, Kyoumoto, and make that first connection. ... Friendship in an instant from what we could tell.

However... from that point on, the movie seemed to stagnate. Nothing was explained. No insight or characterization past montage after montage. The music puts most of its weight during these montages of stills and tiny inklings into their lives. But nothing else past what these two characters and these two characters alone are dealing with in their journey to becoming mangakas. We don't see either of their families, what they think of their path, nor their peers from school past their meeting. All of what you were introduced to in the beginning parts now become null and pointless. Though I suppose that's the fault that comes with such a short film.

When -that- part hits, it's so sudden and knee-jerking. Much like any moment would be considering. Time stopped and it truly did bring a few tears to the eyes. We get a what if scenario... and then silence. Nothing else and nothing more. Yes the moment hits, but then you're left feeling empty and that you're missing parts of an incomplete story. More questions than answers. A lot of filling in the gaps with my own imagination as to how things played out (throughout the whole movie and especially by the end) and what happens from here.

It's something nice and short to watch. It feels like a tribute to someone the author knew in their lifetime. A little something to leave behind, as most artists do, in want to leave a mark to show they were here. I tell myself plenty of times that my love for creation and art is to leave a piece of me behind as proof of my being here! I just wish the movie had been a little longer or a little more packed with substance. There's just too much they leave up to viewer interpretation and guessing how things may have played out.

Well this was certainly a step up from part 1! While still an omake-like series of short episodes, these were focused more on the characters themselves unlike the first part. Yeah there's mokke but they're not the exclusionary focus this time (which was the most aggravating thing and led to a Mixed review last time). Not canon by any means but still as enjoyable as watching the real deal.

Still as gorgeous of an art style like the past episodes! Has a lot more character interactions and fun bits that had me laughing. I can't wait to see this cast again come season 2.

If you're a fan of of the style of older 2000s anime but with modern up to date animation, this is the anime for you.

Wistoria Wand and Sword is your typical classical shounen story with all the stereotypes and gimmicks that come with it. It has the fun art style of the past with colorful fun hairstyles (cute alfalfa included) while having a clean style where the animation never falters. No basic lip flapping, everything is whooshing and fluid and just full of personality. If not a little over the top when it comes to our protagonist's rivals and antagonists-- because this show loves going ... ham when it comes to expressions filled with malice and anger.

The story is that of an underdog trying to prove themselves time and time again, even when unintentionally doing so for the sake of pride and accomplishment. In a world where magic is the supreme dominating factor while Will can do nothing but use a sword and any tools at his disposal, there's a lot going against him. A very uphill battle as he must show he is capable to students peers and professors alike. And he does so in very stunning flashy ways. The fluid animation and flashy colors does a lot of the heavy lifting to put greater impact on this story and it does so very well.

There's a hidden depth to this story not only in the dangerous tower and the fear of their false sky, but especially so in hints of the final episode. That there is so much more going on in the background we've yet to uncover. We've only seen the surface of this magic school and surface level past your everyday school shenanigans.

The over the topness at the beginning might make you second guess this anime. A lot of what happens is predictable, but with enjoyable outcomes nonetheless as we see our protagonist grow and put himself out there. I highly recommend giving it a shot... and I'm super excited to see what's in store for season 2 after the little tidbits of plot we were given after the final episode!

The Elusive Samurai is truly a treat for those like myself who love an anime's art and animation style most that pulls you in-- and man does this anime do just that.

It's as if the animators and artists were told to go wild. So many times where you'll find yourself entranced by the vivid colorfulness of it all, the flashy designs, the wild over the top animation... not to mention certain sequences that were simply masterful ways of using this medium unlike any other. It's a visual feast and what makes it such a special gem this season. Ignoring... the occasional CGI of course. The ... animators REALLY don't like animating people on horseback apparently.

Story and character wise, it starts strong and pulls you into the plight of the young protagonist. Pushed into a role he never wanted, nor did he truly see himself fit for this new world he was living in after the fall of everything. He's lost so much, but he's also promised a lot more should he decide to stand up and make a change instead of joining his fallen people. The protagonist grows a lot over his journey and is met with a colorful cast of supporting characters willing to join him on his journey to becoming a proper lord. Some of these supporting cast however... especially the first two helpers in battle simply aren't given any spotlight on why they want to help whatsoever. They're there to fight! For what motivation or past reasons however? Dunno. Maybe that will come much later.

The biggest hindrance to the anime thus far is the shoved in "comedic" moments. Yorishige Suwa is the biggest moment ruiner of all and was the biggest reason many of my watching companions ditched this anime. He's great when he's serious and acting the proper leader/helper that he is. But he constantly, consistently, makes phony jokes to do with the "modern age" and "future" to try and get a chuckle out of the audience. Horribly forced and takes away from the focus a lot. If there were a reason for me to give this review with mixed feelings, it would solely be because of him.

Past that though. There's great potential in the Elusive Samurai. People who love watching anime based on Japan's older eras will likely enjoy this. Even if there are parts that I lament, I find this anime to be a special hidden gem this season. And, if anything else, fun eye candy for those that can appreciate the art, animation, and music that went into this colorful production.

A pretty chill anime with a really chill vibe. As someone who thought I'd drop this on the first episode, I ended up keeping up with it--if only because I enjoyed the art style and vibe to it.

There's nothing particularly special about Sakuna: of Rice and Ruin. It's one that requires patience and being able to get past the first episode where it gives a terrible first impression between the character introductions and the fact that the main focus of the games, the plot itself, /the rice/... is super CGI. Something that can be a big turn off for a lot of people, me ... included. But it was only the rice? Sure why not.

Regardless of this first impression, I found myself feeling comfortable with the overall art style and the cozyness with it. I enjoy the ending theme song most of all. Most of your beginning cast of characters aren't very likeable at the start and they don't really grow on you until much later. And even when they do "grow", it's very minimal. A lot of what I really wanted to see and learn, you don't really get to until the final few episodes. Of Sakuna's actual fighting plot, the enemies, finding things out about her parents... the real meat of it you'll find in those last episodes.

Before that however? This anime reminded me of my childhood days where I'd turn on the tv and a pokemon cartoon would be showing. Because it's very much like watching a children's show and the way the character's personalities are is very akin to those olden days of watching cliche anime like that.

The anime isn't bad, but it's not great. It's average at best, and truly is enjoyable... sometimes. I'd go into this with tempered expectations.

Shoshimin is a nothingburger anime. It's hollow and leaves you with nothing other than the feeling of wasting your time.

Now don't get me wrong. The art is GORGEOUS. The cinematic style is beautiful. The character designs draw your attention whenever you get a close up. This anime oozes style in the simple and meticulous animation. But what more is there than to be a pretty wallflower, dangling such good quality without substance?

This anime boasts about being "normal" and solving mysteries. Mysteries, by the way, that are the biggest time wasters and all a part of the protag's imaginations as far as how something may have ... played out. Which is especially bad considering how few episodes this anime will have with a total of 10... and half way in, nothing appears to be changing or raising the stakes in regards to their mystery solving.

The mystery solving is all in their heads. Visually re-imagining a scenario before multiplying such scenarios to obscene amounts. How did this person make hot cocoa? A whole 20 irl minutes spent thinking about it when they simply could have asked. Why's this kid taking the bus to driving school? Another entire episode spent jotting down potentials on a school board. It's a -lot- of talking and what ifs before they finally decide to Do Something about it by episode's end.

No relationships are being forged. Nothing is being gained. Your entertainment is watching 2 highschoolers give you quiet asmr thinking noises and low whispering. Even when you think someone might show a hint of Doing Something of interest, the next episode it was all just for nothing. It's the most mundane nothingness you could be spending your time more wisely on than this anime right here.

This has a lot of potential.

Loser Rangers starts out with a pretty interesting plot in that this one insignificant monster of the week is done with the life he is living. He doesn't want to be just a monster living a sham of a life! Pretending to be beat up every week for a power ranger's show off as if they're actually still doing something for their people. No, he tries to escape this life and be as one with the outside people. But not in a living normally kind of way, because one slip up and he'd be dead. So after hatching up a ... plan and teaming up with a rogue ranger... it's time to get to work in ensuring his livelihood as a free person (or monster).

I quite enjoy the underdog nature that Fighter D is and how he struggles to get in a good place both for himself and the other fighters one day. He has many flaws, namely his pride as a monster as well as being super squishy. So much as a proper poke and his cover is blown, making fighting interesting and scary for this weak wonder. The stakes are high against him! And it's enjoyable to see just how he'll overcome these obstacles now and in the future.

The artstyle is lovely and clean. Animation is passable and has its moments. The OP and ED songs are bangers! This anime has such a good thing going for it and I well look forward to what is in store in the future, because some of these characters go wild. The dragon keepers are a definite enemy, but some of these rangers might just be willing to side with our little fighter.

An enjoyable anime with a fun kick-ass vibe! If you're looking for something to watch that is visually appealing, with fluid animation and fun characters-- look no further than Wind Breaker!

This is the sort of show you'd watch if you'd like to turn your brain off for awhile and appreciate something that's very upfront with what it's about. You've got the protag who's never been able to fit in with your typical crowd back where he was from, where things were normal and as such, he was one of your typical outcasts. But what happens when an outcast moves town to join a bunch of ... other outcasts? Well... he actually finds a group he can actually mesh with. Even if he's incredibly tsundere about it the whole time, he's starting to learn just what it's like to hang out with others who see him for who he is. Because they've all been through it just as he has and uplifts one another.

A personal favorite thing about the MC is that right out the gate he /knows/ how to fight. He isn't just any punk kid who's having to go through a bunch of growing and starting at the literal bottom rung. He actually knows his stuff and carries himself well in a fight. Which means no training arc necessary, we get right into the meat of things with fight after fight! And he gives his opponents a run for their money everytime. Not to mention his personality being a rough and tough, but a softie who easily flusters the moment someone gives him praise... poor homeboy has never gotten any till he entered this town and it shows.

Without going too much further into story, you're in for a treat when it comes to the fluid motion to comes with Wind Breaker's fighting sequences. Everything has weight and style! Constantly eye catching despite the occasional talking mid battle. It all makes sense. Not a single moment feels like a waste. It helps that the other characters, both main and background, all have some flair and aesthetic that makes you appreciate them too. Everyone has a story and you'll definitely be hearing about it, even if it just comes down to exchanging blows.

The only minuses here are the obviously faults in its world building. Cool they're in a gang school. What else are they doing besides sitting around hanging? No teachers or adults at all apparently. No police either, for all the gangs rule the streets as though this were some small time village. What does the rest of the world think about this city and how it runs things!? Where are the parents even? The plot revolves around the characters and their fighting, sure, but it certainly feels like you're missing a piece of some sort of regularity that should come with moving to a completely new city and a busted school of all places.

Beyond those gripes, I thoroughly enjoyed this watch. Wind Breaker is one of the few anime that truly caught my attention this season and I can't wait for i's return!

Kind of a mixed bag at first, but one that I thoroughly enjoyed over time. I’ll admit that, with the first cour of episodes, I was thinking this popular anime maybe just wasn’t my cup of tea. It was the same old formula it started with at every episode: A DnD party explores the dungeon, fights some monsters, makes food out of their enemy, continue onwards! With a nice Trigger twist because of its fantastical designs, excited and fluid animation, the things Trigger is known for and great at.

But around the half point is where the anime /finally/ has everything turned on its head. Finally ... there’s some interesting story elements that get injected into the plot and it becomes something much more than eating random monster of the week on the way to save one’s sister. Now there’s much more at play and the stakes become high. A large cast of characters are introduced and interact. You start to learn more about Laios’s party over time and start to get connected to them proper. And while you still have those same elements from the beginning as the season nears its completion, you know there’s exciting things awaiting around the corner!

You become endeared to the main cast as you watch them grow. Each and every one of them has their specific quirks, humorous qualities, and equally heartwarming moments. While you might assume them a typical gimmick character or trope at surface level, you will eventually learn their reasonings for coming to the dungeon to begin with, their goals, why they are the way they are. It’s fascinating to see how much they grow and reveal of themselves as they get closer to one another.

The structure of the dungeon itself is the most interesting. It’s not /just/ your basic run of the mill dungeon. It’s a whole other world of its own, forged by the dungeon master who breathed life into its ecosystem and floor levels. Different races have come to live in this place and consider it their home. Monsters of all kinds reside in its depths of varying danger levels and have their own mechanics or way of life. As the party tries to reach the bottom of this dungeon, they’ll find out just how much this world truly is one of a kind.

I could go on and on about the story elements, its characters, the fluid animation… the only thing that never really gets at you is the music. It doesn’t grab at you or catch your attention at any given point. It kinda is just there existing to add ambience. Which is fine. The OP and ED songs are kind of the same in that they add a little bit to the fantastically animated openers but otherwise are forgettable.

But otherwise? It’s worth giving Dungeon Meshi a shot. Especially if you’re a DnD enthusiast like me who can envision the whole journey arc akin to that of a DnD campaign with the same goofy party members! Just a fun time all around.

This is one of those anime where you know by the first 1-2 episodes if this show is for you or not. After all, the same joke is essentially overplayed throughout the entire season: That Hime's "torture" is just a joke to see what simple thing she'll cave to next. And she always caves. That's it, that's the show.

Except the characters are full of life with their own personalities and ideas. Every character is interesting in their own way believe it or not. Torture/Tortura is our main torturer and typically goes with good food. She's the most mature and quite the joy as the spotlight ... is on her about as equally as Hime. The actual demon lord is a completely different spin from what you'd normally expect. He might be looking for secrets, but truly he's nothing more than a weeb otaku. The rest of the cast have their own gimmicks such as beast demon with cute animal companions, a giant invested in making Hime relax and chill, the two gal pals who take her out to places like the teens they are, so on so forth.

It's cute and has its own quirky charm to it, but you'll learn rather quickly how repetitive it gets. It really depends how much you can stomach the same thing over and over again! Because it doesn't change aside from later episodes displaying their growing friendships throughout. But its also a fine chill thing to watch especially if you're here for the overly animated food that makes you yourself crave that exact food how dare--