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- BirthdayNov 25, 1996
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- JoinedJun 28, 2015
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Jul 27, 2017
I have never been this moved in 15 minutes. "Shashinkan" has a very powerful appeal to emotion, and all aspects of the piece gracefully came together in order to achieve this. Its visual and auditory harmony was so strong, it allows the viewer to fully immerse oneself in an enchanting soft-toned story about a passionate photographer and his loyal clients.
As a film that is bereft of dialogue, its music was an important narration device. The story's mood is guided through friendly arpeggios, seamless key changes, and befitting subtle dynamics. Using only a piano, the piece stays true to its semi-minimalist nature. This adds on to
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the beautiful, and sincere tone that "Shashinkan" exhibits.
Its visual expression is very unique and stylistic. The characters have a simple and soft color pallette, and is contrasted by the detailed background, complimented with gorgeous patterns. All the colors are very harmonious, and creates a strong sense of 'togetherness' as a piece. The character design is very charming, and allows the viewer to empathize with them. I noticed myself smiling and tearing up while watching this short film.
I highly recommend "Shashinkan" for sentimental viewers that enjoy visually pleasing short films.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Jul 22, 2017
(Ongoing 12-episode Series Preview)
"Kakegurui" easily won my heart from episode 1. Although I've only seen four episodes so far, I was more than excited to write a review about this, and can't wait to see more. Its premise is straightforward, but the execution is stunning. Its strengths lie in its dynamic facial expressions, fair storytelling, and high-quality artistry. The aesthetic expression, in all aspects, always manage to complement the mood and tone of the story. Small details, such as lighting, eyes, mouth, wrinkles, all contribute to the viewer's experience.
The main protagonists Jabami and Suzui both act as archetypal foils to another. This juxtaposition allows
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the viewer to further appreciate the mood, complexity, and humor of the show. The gambling matches reflect those of a videogame 'boss' battle, each having its own unique characteristics, patterns, and spins. This keeps the show exciting and leaves the viewer wanting more.
The result of the matches are hard to predict, and steps away from stereotypical 'cheap' wins that similar anime fall into. The insanity and savvy of the Compulsive Gambler is highlighted by their philosophy, which isn't introduced through cheap narration, rather through gameplay and thoughtful dialogue.
I highly recommend "Kakegurui" for those who enjoy psychological thrillers, nuanced expression, and those who appreciate visually pleasing shows. I really enjoyed this anime, and I'm glad that I picked this up.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Jun 28, 2017
This is my first time watching "Jojo's Bizarre Adventure", and I really loved it. This series contains a Part I and Part II, both of which are necessary in order to explain the Jojo universe's history, power dynamic, and sets the foundation of the Joestar legacy. The show's best feature is its strong aesthetic expression.
The character designs and their movement are dynamic and expressive, which is necessary for an action-packed anime. My favorite part about "Jojo's Bizarre Adventure" is the way the entire color palette changes as the mood does. The color is as dynamic as the movement, emotion, and expression. It could
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switch between the Cannon palette, its complementary colors, its negative palette, and radiant neon palettes, etc. This is a big way the show stays visually exciting.
Part I and Part II should be treated as separate plots, and the two protagonists, although from the same kin, are well-established as different people. Although they share some qualities, such as a sense of justice and a very strong will, they have unique characteristics and methods of fighting that are different from the other. The former has a well-developed quest for vengeance, and the latter has the quest to defend his loved ones. The former has strength and discipline, and the latter is quick-witted and eclectic.
Both Part I and Part II protagonists embody the standard Warrior archetype. This is comparable to the trials and tribulations of a strong male hero like Odysseus. Both heroes have admirable mentors, each distinct and likable. There are also enjoyable training montages, and a noticeable development in strength. There are a handful of interesting companions, but a huge majority of supporting characters are very one-dimensional and bland.
My main qualm with Jojo, and shows like this in general, is that their inner struggle isn't something that is easy to empathize with. It's easy to bet on the hero, and it's a straightforward Good vs. Evil development. Although it isn't the main focus of the show, it's important to note. The plot is passable. It's poorly executed, and wantonly explained by a random narrator. The plot essentially exists as a side dish to the main course. The standard for character development set by Part I was decent, but its successor in Part II had barely (if any) character development. It leaves the viewer feeling less-invested in the protagonist's quest for victory and less afraid of the antagonists. It is easy to take the protagonist's ability and resilience for granted, because pain also doesn't have any 'true' consequences.
The protagonist having the Last Gasp Victory a ton of times before it finally happens leaves the viewer feeling mistrustful of the narrative. This complaint is also applicable to the antagonists and their upgrade from "super", to "ultra super" to "super mega ultra deluxe". Which is totally okay, if the viewer manages to catch the humor in that.
The over-the-top ridiculousness of "Jojo's Bizzare Adventure" was a quality I really enjoyed. The dialogue, the way characters move (walk, pose, fight), and the character design, paired with subtle and tasteful hints at its irony were really amusing and extremely well-executed.
I highly recommend this show for people who enjoy watching action-packed scenes, enjoy visually pleasing anime, admire strong male characters, and find humor in drama/over-reacting.
I had a lot of fun watching this show for the first time, and I look forward to watching the other parts of "Jojo's Bizzare Adventure".
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Jun 13, 2017
"Perfect Blue" is a great movie that follows the literary "Fall from Grace" situational archetype. This is an exciting psychological thriller with a lot of twists and turns, while managing to stay cohesive. It's not a small feat to execute this type of story, while keeping the viewer on the same page.
The director managed to convey the confusion and psychological turmoil that the protagonist was going through. The shift in mood was so well-done, that it almost made the viewer experience the events through her eyes.
The character design and its wide variety of facial expressions and body language managed to convey the ideas directly.
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I highly recommend this movie to those who enjoy psychological thrillers.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Jun 13, 2017
"Paprika" is a visually stunning movie, and is one that I plan on watching again. Its psychedelic and surrealist dream art create a vibrant and exciting atmosphere. It has left me speechless. If I could give the "Art" category more than a "10", I would.
My only qualm with this piece were the characters. The characters, although not the main focus, aren't personally relatable or exciting (save the main female scientist). I wish that the story and character development was as dynamic and interesting as this work's visuals.
"But what about the rest of it?"
I recommend this movie to those who appreciate art, especially
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those who like Surrealist, Psychedelic, and mild Guro. It is also good for those who are familiar with the dreamscape (vivid dreamers), as well as those who are sentimental.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Jun 13, 2017
I'd like to start this review by saying that my first encounter with "Chobits" was about 15 years ago on the television channel "Animax". There is a need to bring to attention that I was a little girl who was still getting acquainted with anime. I have revisited an episode here and there since then, but it's important to note that this review may be skewed by rose-colored glasses and the nostalgia that revolves around it.
The art and overall aesthetic of the show has aged well, and I still find it very beautiful. The music is pleasant and sets atmosphere, and emphasizes the mood
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if need-be. The main strength of Chobits is its aesthetic appeal, with its great character design, beautiful parallel-story, and scenery. Chii's character design in particular has great influence from gothic lolita fashion.
My favorite story genre has always been sci-fi, with a focus on AI and utopian societies. While "Chobits" falls in to this category, it is truly more of a romance, rebirth (Chii) and a coming-of-age (Hideki) story. "Chobits" barely explores the bigger picture and philosophy surrounding AI, which is unlike most other sci-fi stories. Instead, the story is focused on a microverse concept (Chii and Hideki) and creates emphasis around Chii's character arc.
After revisiting a few episodes as a young adult, I've come to realize that the male MC is a very one-dimensional character. He is not unlikable by any means, but there is nothing particularly interesting about him.
Chii embodies the White Goddess archetype, typically fair-haired, good, beautiful, and pure. Because character development and story arc is the show's central point (and not Hideki) it allows for more dimension and complexity. Chii's inner dialogue, paired with the featured parallel story creates more depth.
I enjoyed this anime very much, and recommend it to those who enjoy the AI genre, humor, romance, and exploring the psyche of innocence and self-discovery.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Jun 13, 2017
"Baby Steps" is an anime about tennis, but it also a great coming-of-age story that emphasizes celebrating small successes, finding passion, and making meaningful connections.
This show belongs to a place near and dear to my heart. The main cast is full of very likable characters, and the protagonist's story arc and development was very realistic and believable, which is a quality that lacks in its contemporaries. I don't typically watch anime in the "sports" genre, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
The main character, Ei-chan, is extremely relatable and kind-hearted. The show has a good way of making a person root for him, through his hardships
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and growth. The supporting characters, as well as the 'antagonists' are mostly unique and complex characters that embody true human struggles and emotions. Their methods and attitudes are reflected in the way they play tennis, which was a very good touch.
"Baby Steps" has created a positive impact on my life, and inspired me to work harder, try my best, take risks, and find passion.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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