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May 25, 2023
I'd hate to say this, but as a huge fan of Kimi ni Todoke (From Me to You), Busu ni Hanataba Wo suffered for being a "copycat."
I have read up to volume 6 and the resemblance of Busu ni Hanataba Wo to Kimi no Todoke is so distracting. A lot of events and situations are very reminiscing of Kimi ni Todoke, which is very hard to overlook. I wanted to like the series I really do, but it's Kimi ni Todoke all over again with just different character designs. I would understand if the plot is the only thing that is the same, but it's
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not. Even the characters' personality and traits and their drive/action to do what's needed were the same.
Ueno = Kazehaya (Although at first Ueno is oblivious of his feelings, he's Kazehaya through and through, but he's blonde/brownish hair version)
Tabata = Sawako (Instead of being associated with Sadako, Tabata is a self-proclaimed otaku. Both loners, outcast in the beginning, who snagged the attention of the popular guy in class. Aside from Tabata, who is a bit chunky, she doesn't have much of a difference with Sawako)
Shinbashi = Pin (Although Pin is a subtitute teacher him and Shinbashi are the comedic relief characters.)
Gotanda = Ryu (omg Gotanda is Ryu indisguised, personality and apperance wise but with hair. Gotanda is reliving Ryu's plot. His only saving grace is his relationship with Uguisudani, who share resemblance to Chizu's circumstances in kimi ni todoke after being rejected.)
Ootsuka = Chizu (Ootsuka is the childhood friend of the main guy who shares the same outgoing and loud personality who gets along with everyone personality like Chizu.)
Uguisudani = Kurumi (Ugui is literally Umi-chan. she's the pretty rival with a terrible personality hiding underneath her exterior. Her drive and her backstory are the same as Umi.)
Overall, Busu ni Hanataba wo is not just a cliche story, but it's literally an "alternate retelling" of Kimi ni Todoke. It's a shame, I'm a sucker for this kind of romance troupe where the main character starts to open up to other people, getting along with them and being a part of a group but most of the situations presented in this is like a rehashed version.
Busu is labeled as seinen, and Kimi ni Todoke is Shoujo, but the latter is the original one. And so far, after reading half of the series there's really nothing new to make this series worth checking out except if you're new to manga/anime. Because of that Busu ni Hanataba Wo is very hard to recommend but would urge readers to just check out Kimi ni Todoke instead.
Reviewer’s Rating: 5
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Feb 11, 2018
If one episode could outdone the main love story, Clannad: Tomoyo Arc did it exceedingly well.
Having seen the entire episode of Clannad I daresay this OAV episode is by far the best one. The “alternate” ending provided far more character growth and it managed to give powerful emotions within the two main characters. I like how it showed the contrast between Tomoyo and Tomoya of two opposite pair who fell for each other while the circumstances around them jeopardizes their relationship. I thought it was brilliantly written. I couldn’t help but to symphatize with their circumstance.
But anyway. This episode is such powerful and heartfelt that
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it’s much more memorable than the entire Clannad story.
The confrontation at the end is written beautifully, wonderfully animated and just the right soundtrack. I’m just awe struck and speechless.
Bring the tissues if you’re a softy like me cause this one will tug your heartstrings. It is such powerful OVA that made the main series look like the alternate one. I’m glad it was animated. A job that’s very well done.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Mar 5, 2014
Water of life, swell with wind and let them walk the earth once more. It matters not where or when. Let it be that this time they should meet and never again be separated. And this... was the first story told of the Priestess of Genbu. - FY:GK Final Volume [Yuu Watase]
After a long decade of grueling and impatient wait, Yuu Watase has finally concluded Genbu's arc of Fushigi Yugi, her life's work. As much as I love the classic original Fushigi Yugi, this prequel proved as a worthy stand alone series that far exceeded in storytelling, art and overall theme compared to its predecessor,
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Suzaku/Seiryu arc. However to compare both series is unjust as both has its appeal. While becoming familiar with the original is not required to fully appreciate Genbu Kaiden. Although a few references in the series would be reminiscing of the original thus gives it more a sense of familiarity. Of course, the inevitable faith of the Priestess of Genbu has been predetermined in the original.
Genbu Kaiden is like a piece of poetry, poignantly written about how precious life is. The different bond of relationship the characters shared; through happiness, romance, forgiveness, sacrifices and even death and how to continue to live on with life when tragedy strikes. All these theme were incorporated and effortlessly delivered by Watase with such ease and grace.
Contrast to the original Fushigi Yugi which was sappy melodramatic, light hearted and guilty of vexing romance. Genbu Kaiden's sophisticated plot and theme was a refreshing change. Watase's plethora of anecdotes shojo lines and often whiny/weak heroine was almost nonexistent. Rather we have Takiko whose not only an eye catcher but also has brain, guts and will to achieve what she set out to do. Takiko was not the typical damsel in distress. A bit too perfect for a heroine, not really as her existence and fate was also her flaw. The romance between Takiko and her love interest, Uruki was more favorable. The subtle and slow progression of romance was delicately executed without becoming too trite or redundant for the readers. I was sold on the love between the two.
Genbu Kaiden's strong point was the message it tried to convey to its readers. As I mentioned, the obvious theme it had was death, sacrifices and forgiveness. Most of the celestial warriors didn't have it as easy living as the chosen protectors since they symbolizes desctruction. Watase tried to give each warrior a tragic story with heartwarming resolution. Watase explored and exploited brotherhood relation, to master/servant faithful bond and even down to inanimate connection.
Ultimately, what elevated this series amidst its predetermined ending (as I've read the original) was the bittersweet fate of Takiko. Each character that has perished in the process of Takiko's quest to gather the seven warriors has made an impact and had meaningful purpose. Despite of countless death and the tragic destiny of Takiko, I felt that Watase has created a brilliant elegy commemorating and celebrating life.
More than twice I've shed tears because of this series. Especially on the last couple of pages. Not because it ended tragic, but because of how powerful, moving and meaningful it was. Takiko singing while Uruki embracing her at the end was too poignant.
Overall, Genbu Kaiden is hands down worthy as a prequel. I love the epilogue-esque ending. The Priesstess of Genbu's final wish was brilliant and heartwarming. I could not think of a much suited ending. I confess, I doubted Watase's ability to come up a good ending but instead she had won me over as she crafted yet another masterpiece. The more reason to love Yuu Watase. The ending of Genbu Kaiden reminds me of why she's my favourite mangaka. She's just amazing and one gifted storyteller. Throughout the 10 years process, Watase has become a much adept writer and as well as an artist. Memorable, intense and tragic scenes were highlighted and was brought to life fully by Watase's art. Her art style and character designs has improved drastically over the course. Though still has some minor hand and body proportion issues. But this is just a minor nitpick.
Fushigi Genbu Kaiden is definitely one of her best, if not the best series. I realized by the end of the series that it's literally like a legend, a story that has been told with each passing of generation. Truly magnificent.
Thank you Watase-sensei. Takiko, Uruki, the Celestial Warriors and Soren will forever be remembered the same as the Suzaku/Seiryu arc. Byakko's arc should be in order to round up the Universe of the Four Gods.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Oct 24, 2012
OK you've probably read the other reviews and you have a definite opinion whether this series is worth your time. But still I just want to share my two cents, as this is the first anime I've watched in its entirety after a long hiatus on anime.
Croisee in a Foreign Labyrinth is a Slice of Life series that revolves around Yune - a japanese girl that was given privilenge to live in Paris, France in the late 19th century.
Well this series is definitely right for my cup of tea since I tend to like slow paced series. But Croisee lacks something that the other
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slice of series has, and unfortunately it lacks a story. Of course I know that most "slice of life" genre doesn't have a particular story rather a collection of everyday instances in the main characters life.
In Croisee though, instead on focusing on Yune's everyday life in Paris we are given an insight on the cultural clash between Japanese & French customs. It's very informative but most of the time it just felt that the series tried too much too be angsty that sometimes its gets irritating. Almost the entire series focuses on such values that you are better of reading a book on Japanese customs.
The series did a pretty good job developing a Parisian backdrop, but as I said, Croisee's main focus is to show you the different perspective of a two different culture. It's nice that we get to be informed but then again sometimes it presents a rather redundant subject.
While the series tried to give Yune, Claude & Camille a deeper story it was a little to late since it was presented in the last couple of episodes. A would like to see a season 2 of this so that we could've a much better resolution behind these characters pasts. But until then this series is lukewarm.
Unlike Natsume Yuujinchou or Mushishi - slice of life series that can have a single episode to be a stand alone story. Or even Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou that gives you the "mono no aware" or nostalgic/sentiment feelings. Croisee chose to focused on the cultural clashes that it forgot to create an actual story. It took almost the entire series to have Yune get accustomed to her new surroundings that by the time the "cultural problems" were settled it was too late to introduced a deeper stories to its characters.
The animation is nice though. It's still a pretty decent anime if you run out of something to watch as 12 episode is just a breeze to devour. It's relaxing but then again don't expect to have a character driven series instead a cultural lessons.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Oct 24, 2012
Cinderella, Cinderella, Cinderella... Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo! - Oh wait, wrong soundtrack..
This is YET another take on the classic story of Cinderella. A story of a young maiden forced to do unendless laborious house work under her own noble home by her wicked stepmother. Yep most of us is very much adept and familiar of how the story of this such pitiful maiden goes; but in this Anime adaptation of this classic tale holds a fine re-telling of the story.
What set this apart from the rest is that it gave a much deeper background to Cinderella and the Prince relationship. I'm a sucker for romance and especially
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about "RAG to RICHES" stories. This series serves just that, with bonus morale lessons about Friendship, Love, Family and other goody values.
In order to fully appreciate this series is that you just have to watch this with an open mind because their is an undeniable HUGE FLAW regarding its plot. Cinderella befriended the Prince in a very ordinary circumstance without realizing he is really the Prince. We get to see them interact throughout almost the entire series that you wish for Cinderella to realize it's the prince all along. But that same flaw made this series the more charming and memorable.
As a viewer you'll grow to love Cinderella and the Prince and root for them until the end. There are alot more aspect in this story that were explained; like why Cinderella can speak to animals around her house. Why does she have a Fairy Godmother and so on.
This was created back in the mid 90's so the animation is dated but you wouldn't care for it too much as it's still a decent quality. Forget about its technical aspect and just go with the flow. You'll adore this kiddie show. Episode 4 sealed the deal for me I knew I would end up loving this show. The ending was near pitch perfect. It really did delivered a satisying conclusion to a perfect story to Cinderella's fairytale.
I am no expert on the original story but I've read and seen different versions of Cinderella and this particular anime shines brightly as Cinderella's glass slippers amongst all of them. While growing up this anime is one of the most memorable series for me. Once in awhile I still view this series for an entire day and I am still as fond and captivated to it as I was back in day.
If you get the chance go watch it. Last time I checked it was still on Youtube. lol
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Nov 9, 2010
"But right now... I can't see past the world of a 17-year-old."
Narration of love at 17 is a well crafted shoujo series that centers around a teenager named Seyoung. The series sets itself apart from the usual and tired concept as most of the case in shojo stories by being somewhat philosophic and melancholic. It focuses more on the main characters emotion and thoughts rather than having characters face hardships and such unwanted obstacles.
I must admit I wish for a rollercoaster heartbreaking drama between the main characters but rather the series was straightforward. The story is simple and was rather written realistically. As readers we
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get to learn the thoughts of Seyoung as she is experiencing love, heartbreak, rivals, and friendship etc. in the mindset of a teenager. There is nothing dramatic in this series, it's all about how would you react to what others feelings. Its like a memory of a teenager's first hand experience about love.
I found myself lost in some of the characters interactions. It's definitely more mature when it comes to dialogue. I enjoyed the interaction between Yunho and Hyunjung they have such cunning chit chats. It contains so much philosophical views about relationship and feelings. I like how Sayeoung analyzes her actions, thoughts and her reactions. Sayeoung's idea about wanting to be special to someone, and some comments about doing something to someone you like are all there. How is someone is special to you but then are ordinary for others. The series is like a study of relationship.
Its quiet but powerful moving tale. The series moves in such narratively manner. The art is pleasant to look at, it captures the series overall tone. I felt as if I'm reading a manga rather than manhwa because of the art. The art reminded me of the series Swan and Rumiko Takahashi's early works.
By the end of the series Seyoung was developed into someone who came to an understanding. She slowly realizes that she's only 17 and she'll experience alot more things as time passes. Anway it was just good.
Although as a reader I can't help but to think "what if" between Seyoung and Hyunwoo. Lol.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Oct 5, 2009
It's really a shame that this series hasn't gotten alot of readers. But for some of us who had the chance to checked the series out, Kazan is one amazing series.
Plot:
The plot of Kazan revolves around the sole survivor of a Red Sand Clan and his journey to find his dear friend Elsie who was abducted by some unknown demon. So his journey starts with the determination to avange the death of his clan and parent also the will to find his childhood friend. Along the way he'd have some obstacles to deal with, meeting new allies that will help him with his situation and
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will travel along side him.
Art:
The art of Kazan resembles the work of Hayao Miyazaki. Its very easy to get into and its a generic style. It can be cute sometimes but can also be astonishing. It has a better art for most of the shounen series I have read. The fighting scenes aren't as confusing as well.
Character:
The characters in Kazan are pretty well developed. Each characters have a mysterious/unknown past and background that will make you read more to find out. There are numerous question who they were and by reading throughout the plot you unveil their identity little by little. Starts off with Kazan a person who might fool you with his appearance. (I won't mention it though). The only survivor of the tragic destruction of his clan. Brave and relentless but is also caring, loving and smart. Fawna a mysterious young girl who has the power to control water her unknown origin and her vague memory of her childhood added to mystery of the series. Then the old grandma whom I forgot the name, a very clever and crafty elderly that is packed with explosive, tactics and wits. There were other more that they'll meet along the journey. All incident, places they travel into will give them strength, knowledge and message that contributes to the story. The places/people are all related into the main plot.
Overall:
The plot seems pretty straight forward but ones the journey starts you'll want to read the next chapter after another. The story can be compare to the likes of Nausicaa with both of the main character were children of their clan's head leader. The adventure is interesting and Kazan's world has its own fascinating creatures and places. The major question that I have had me surprised. The twist and the ending wasn't the idea I have in mind. It surely had me all wrong. The ending manages to be exciting. Its an unpredictable series that will make you read for the next event. The encounter of people in different place has their own story to tell that is memorable or tragic.
If you ever get a chance to rea Kazan check it out and you'll find an awesome series! Its one of the hidden gem that has fallen off the radar.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Jan 12, 2009
Ninja in a Shoujo genre? You don't read that often in these sort of series.
In my own opinion, most of shoujo series often revolves around in school. You got your typical popular main character then for some reason most of the entire campus have a crush on them. Others would form a club that protects him/her and if you are unworthy to get the attention of these popular people you'll be threaten and be bullied etc.... So this series is a nice change from the usual stuff.
Kagetora is a ninja who for unknown reason ended up in the future where he meets a girl that
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resembles his master. Thinking she is the real Princess he protects her from harm. The story is somewhat shallow especially Beni's family problems and the things that revolves around (pretty much most of the stuff in 1-2 chapters). Although it started somewhat mediocre the series proved to be one of a kind cause it is more focused on Ninja rather than love, love, love. Pretty fast paced for a shoujo series but it's definitely well done (suitable) for its theme.
The art is nice. Clean, not too heavy. I haven't noticed any of the usual stuff most shoujo panels have.. No flowers, bubbles, sparkles etc.... Though (well for me) the art seems it was done with laziness cause sometimes the shading look rushed but nothing else to complain here. Though it felt like a lazy art it is also quite relaxing.
The characters are a bit mixed. Well of course Kagetora's personality is what you should expect from a ninja. A disciplined, honest, protective, somewhat old fashioned.. So he's a great character. In the other hand the female lead (isn't as likeable) the first time she gets introduce you might feel that she isn't a good female lead. But slowly the readers will come to like her. I think Beni's character is developed rather slowly but in a good way. Heck I don't like her the first time but when you read more and more bit by bit you'll end up liking her.
Just as I expected, I enjoyed reading this series. I can't wait to read more. The thing I like about this series is the somewhat "unrequited love". One of the thing I like is the feel of bitter but yet sweet moments.... It has the master X servant theme so the series is much more enjoyable and memorable. I also enjoyed stories that involves ninjas.
If you are looking for a nice shoujo packed with action and dreamy ninja, then this is for you. What makes this series stand from the other, is it doesn't have the overly dramatic, cheesy, lines. It doesn't have those typical word of wisdom when it comes to love. If you are getting tired of the usual cliche shoujo romance, but still craving for more romance junk, then this one is worth a try!
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Dec 31, 2008
This underhyped and underrated "gem" should get all the praise it deserves and be acknowledged by all manga lovers out there.
The story of Moon Child starts off peculiar and somewhat hard to get into. But once you finish the first volume you'll definitely want to read the next installment. As soon as you reach the last page of the first volume, the plot gains so much potential and things gain momentum (the mangaka has stated that volume 1 is like an introduction to the series). One by one you'll learn something about the tales of mermaids and be introduced to how their lifestyle is. If
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you are familiar with the story of the Little Mermaid, Moon Child uses some of its idea, but the author added some twists and different concepts, mixing it up to create such a bizzare yet compelling series. The story starts in the aftermath of the tragic past in the history of mermaids. It follows the tale of the little mermaid and given a deep story behind it.
The art of Moon Child is at its best back when it is created (in the late 1980's). It may not be eye candy or anything great, but it gets the job done and doesn't detract the reader from the story.
The characters are all intruiging and fascinating. One of the things I like about the series is how the main character was portrayed as an innocent child that is in the process of maturing into an "adult". The life of fish are often used as metaphors for some of the characters (as weird as it is sounds) but these unusual ideas is what makes this series a very unique one.
I am enjoying how things are unfolding and how the plot gets twisted in every volume. What keeps this series a very memorable read is how the author takes the simple tale of the little mermaid and turned it into something darker, more mysterious and give it such an intricate twist. It became so engrossing for me.
Lost from the mainstream world of manga, Moon Child is a hidden gem that has been created for almost two decades.
Moon Child is proving to be a masterpiece series, even with it's unusual concept. A series that can be compare to the likes of Please Save My Earth and Basara. Masterpieces that are brilliantly written but wavering in out of the lame light, that not many people are aware of that such fantastic series exist. If you ever have the chance to read this series don't let it pass.
For now I'll finish my review in a positive note, since I am still in the process of reading the whole series. Till then I highly recommend this series to all the reader (not only of manga, but to all people who enjoy reading). Such a classic title deserves a little recognition and definitely deserves a chance. If you have a great imagination and love romantic fantasy stories with a twist, then you should check this one out.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Dec 18, 2008
When I came across this title I wasn't really interested on reading it.. I skimmed most of the first chapter but by the half of the chapter I was captivated by its plot.
The story is about a teenage girl who have a special case of power... she's a telepath meaning she could read peoples' thoughts and know their true intentions.. The story incorporates mature themes, of course people do think stuff like their desires and feelings.... So expect to read some sex related things... The story is just highly engrossing. After a chapter or two the ride begins as Nanase tries to seek people just
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like herself. The part where she's in the train is where all things starts and the series will never cease to draw you into reading it.
The characters were great especially the main characters were developed in such a fast time.. Their action and feelings are very close to what people would feel if things like telepath do exist.... Abilities presented in this series are cool and everything are explained rather precise like how time-traveling works, the pros and cons of being a telepath etc.... All of the characters are likeable and memorable.... You'll know what I mean if you read the story.
The art is great as well... As much as I enjoyed the story the art is easy to get into. The characters are drawn fantastically without disproportions and weird structures...
I really did enjoy Telepathic Wanderer to its fullest. Its a thrilling read and I think that people who enjoy (psychological) would find this great. The twists and revelations can surprise its reader.
With likeable characters, memorable and engaging story Telepathic Wandered is worth checking out. Well I'll end it here be warn though (if you finish this)......
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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