Fall 1999

Hunter x Hunter

Nippon Animation
62 episodes · TV Completed
8.41

Hunters are specialized in a wide variety of fields, ranging from treasure hunting to cooking. They have access to otherwise unavailable funds and information that allow them to pursue their dreams and interests. However, being a hunter is a special privilege, only attained by taking a deadly exam with an extremely low success rate.

Gon Freecss, a 12-year-old boy with the hope of finding his missing father, sets out on a quest to take the Hunter Exam. Along the way, he picks up three companions who also aim to take the dangerous test: the revenge-seeking Kurapika, aspiring doctor Leorio Paladiknight, and a mischievous child the same age as Gon, Killua Zoldyck.

As the four aspiring hunters embark on a perilous adventure, they fight for their dreams while defying the odds.

Anime Critic Review: The Wonderful World of Hunter x Hunter

Welcome, fellow anime enthusiasts! It’s The Anime Critic here, bringing you yet another in-depth review of one of the most loved series in the anime landscape: Hunter x Hunter! If you’re considering whether to buy, rent, or stream this brilliant piece of work, you’re in the right place. So let’s dive into the exciting universe of Hunter x Hunter and see what makes it tick without giving much away!

Synopsis:

Hunter x Hunter is a thoughtfully created story revolving around a young boy named Gon Freecs who discovers that his father, long believed to be dead, is actually alive and well. His father, Ging, is a renowned Hunter, a licensed profession that involves tracking down secret treasures, rare beasts, or even other individuals. Eager to follow in his father’s footsteps, Gon decides to take the Hunter examination, known for its low success rate and high probability of death.

Throughout his journey, Gon befriends many other would-be hunters and encounters the dangerous, mysterious underworld of Nen, a technique that allows a person to use their own life energy known as “Aura”. As Gon embarks on his adventurous journey to find his father, he learns more about the Hunter’s profession and the dangerous risks that lie within its space. Thus, the ultimate hunt begins.

Review:

First and foremost, credit must go to Yoshihiro Togashi, the mastermind behind Hunter x Hunter. Togashi has crafted an incredibly vibrant world populated by diverse, well-rounded characters, and this world is embedded in a unique system of magic and combat that captivates even the most jaded anime fans.

What distinguishes Hunter x Hunter from its contemporaries is how it continually subverts expectations. Forget about predictable plotlines; this series thrives on surprise. Genre expectations are consistently broken down, only to be rebuilt in wonderfully unexpected ways. The show’s level of unpredictability lends it a refreshing variety, making every next episode a new exciting exploration.

Togashi’s characters are another standout element, deeply empathetic and complex. It’s a pleasure and a heartache to watch them evolve. Whether it’s Gon, the fiercely optimistic protagonist; Killua, the haunted heir apparent to a family of assassins; or Kurapika, relentlessly driven by revenge—the characters of Hunter x Hunter are as captivating as they are richly drawn.

Add to this an animation quality that’s a feast for the eyes and an original soundtrack that perfectly underscores each scene, and you’ve got yourself a top tier anime.

One thing worth noting, however, is the series’ incomplete ending, but fret not! Even without a clear resolution, the journey is so exceptional that it does not take away from the overall enjoyment of the anime.

In a nutshell, if you’re looking for something that combines thrilling storylines, emotional depth, complex characters, stunning animation, and a richly-constructed world, then Hunter x Hunter should be your next stop! It’s a buy and a stream right away!

Wrapping up, I’d give Hunter x Hunter a strong 9.5 out of 10. It’s not just another Shounen anime – it is the Shounen anime. You won’t regret diving into this multifaceted rollercoaster of a show.

So what are you waiting for? Your amazing journey into the world of Hunters awaits you! Happy watching, everyone.

Stay tuned for more anime reviews. As ever, this is The Anime Critic, signing off! Gambaro, otaku comrades!

Final Verdict:

Hunter x Hunter gets 9.5 out of 10 stars.

Hunter x Hunter
8.41 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Hunter X Hunter offers deep character development and storyline, with intriguing plot twists that keep the viewer engaged. The animation quality is outstanding and the music is well-suited, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Cons
The anime, whilst very detailed, can feel slow-paced because of its emphasis on character dialogues and story development. Some viewers might find the arc storylines inconsistent and the level of violence and brutality may not appeal to everyone.
Summary
Hunter x Hunter is a unique and heart-pounding anime that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With enchanting character development and a complex yet engaging storyline, this show captivates its viewers from the very first episode. A must-watch for adventure and mystery lovers as it flawlessly incorporates exciting plot twists, surprising abilities and fascinating universe.
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Initial D Second Stage

Pastel
13 episodes · TV Completed
8.17

Accumulating an impressive series of victories with his AE86, Takumi Fujiwara has imposed himself as street racing's newest rising star. However, his newly found confidence of winning at his home turf of Mount Akina has been put in jeopardy by a new Emperor team exclusively using a car model favored by most professional racing pilots: the Mitsubishi four-wheel drive Lancer Evolutions—also known as Lan Evos. The Emperor team leader, Kyouichi Sudou, looks down on Takumi and regards him as an inferior pilot for driving an antique car that lacks the makings of a true modern race car. Kyouichi's elitist philosophy is also the reason why his team is only made of Lan Evo drivers.

Will Takumi be able to keep his perfect track record intact against the highly skilled and mechanically superior Emperor team, or does his hot streak end here?

Initial D Second Stage: Manga Bunny’s Next Gear Adventure Review

The saga of the mountain drifting talent Takumi Fujiwara continues in the thrilling second installment of Initial D, titled ‘Second Stage.’ Since his unexpected entry into the exhilarating world of nighttime mountain racing, Takumi became a local racing legend. Now, he’s about to face the biggest challenges of his life, both on the racing circuit and off it. New competitors, high-stakes races, personal growth, and testing the limits of his AE86 – this is but a fraction of what awaits in Initial D’s Second Stage.

In the evolution of our protagonist’s journey, Takumi affirms himself as a seasoned racer with an innate ability to control his vehicle. Meanwhile, his high school life is riddled with complicated relationships with peers who admire his special skill and those who envy it. The constant pull of these two contrasting worlds forms the overall narrative of this compelling and engaging anime series. Will he be able to balance his racing and personal life? That is a thread that runs throughout this season.

Rallying Towards Excellence: The Review

Initial D Second Stage picks up roughly where it left off, but it quickly becomes apparent that we’re gearing up deeper into the emotional and physical realms of our drifting aficionado, Takumi. The anime seamlessly blends exciting drifting scenes with intricate storylines. Every character grows and matures, shedding their earlier simplistic personas.

The attention to detail, from the careful depiction of vehicle mechanics to the physics of drifting, continues to deliver a touch of realism that fans of the series have come to appreciate. It’s not just a visual treat, but a mechanically indulgent one too. It rightly deserves a spot on your ‘to rent, buy, or stream’ list.

Characters: Drifting Into Depth

One of the high points of ‘Second Stage’ is how it introduces several new characters while developing the existing ones. Whether they’re friends or rivals, each character has an interesting story to tell, contributing to the overall narrative and never overshadowing Takumi’s character. Expect to watch some emotional and riveting turns in their journey.

Art and Sound: Well Oiled Machine

The art and animation may feel dated to some audiences, but they also add a charm of their own, reminiscent of the 90s vibe. Detailed car designs and racing sequences ensure that the viewer can savor every bit of the high-speed action. The sound design is indeed a star of the show; the unorthodox yet heady Eurobeat tracks provide the perfect backdrop to the street-racing scenes, catapulting the experience to new heights.

Gearing Up: To Conclude

At the end of the day, Initial D Second Stage does what a sequel should do and more; it parents an ingenious growth arc, not just for Takumi, but for every character, accompanied by memorable races and some damn good music. So, whether you should rent, buy, or stream it? Well, that’s a resounding yes. Strap in for a fantastic ride with Initial D Second Stage because it won’t disappoint.

Initial D Second Stage
8.17 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Initial D Second Stage carries on the thrilling street racing adventures with enhanced animation quality and deepened character development. Its plot continues to captivate, featuring intense racing scenes and evolving storylines that keep the audience hooked.
Cons
The animation quality in Initial D Second Stage may feel dated to some viewers and the storyline lacks complexity, focusing more on car races. Some characters and relationships are underdeveloped, leaving viewers wanting more depth and context.
Summary
Initial D Second Stage intensifies the thrilling world of street racing with more challenging opponents and improved car animations. It seamlessly explores the protagonist Takumi’s growth as a racer while dealing with interpersonal relationships and his own identity. This review analyses how the second stage surpasses its predecessor in terms of storytelling, character development, and animation techniques.
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One Piece

Toei Animation
Unknown episodes · TV Ongoing
8.71

Barely surviving in a barrel after passing through a terrible whirlpool at sea, carefree Monkey D. Luffy ends up aboard a ship under attack by fearsome pirates. Despite being a naive-looking teenager, he is not to be underestimated. Unmatched in battle, Luffy is a pirate himself who resolutely pursues the coveted One Piece treasure and the King of the Pirates title that comes with it.

The late King of the Pirates, Gol D. Roger, stirred up the world before his death by disclosing the whereabouts of his hoard of riches and daring everyone to obtain it. Ever since then, countless powerful pirates have sailed dangerous seas for the prized One Piece only to never return. Although Luffy lacks a crew and a proper ship, he is endowed with a superhuman ability and an unbreakable spirit that make him not only a formidable adversary but also an inspiration to many.

As he faces numerous challenges with a big smile on his face, Luffy gathers one-of-a-kind companions to join him in his ambitious endeavor, together embracing perils and wonders on their once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

[Written by MAL Rewrite]

One Piece

Toei Animation
Unknown episodes · TV Ongoing
8.71

Barely surviving in a barrel after passing through a terrible whirlpool at sea, carefree Monkey D. Luffy ends up aboard a ship under attack by fearsome pirates. Despite being a naive-looking teenager, he is not to be underestimated. Unmatched in battle, Luffy is a pirate himself who resolutely pursues the coveted One Piece treasure and the King of the Pirates title that comes with it.

The late King of the Pirates, Gol D. Roger, stirred up the world before his death by disclosing the whereabouts of his hoard of riches and daring everyone to obtain it. Ever since then, countless powerful pirates have sailed dangerous seas for the prized One Piece only to never return. Although Luffy lacks a crew and a proper ship, he is endowed with a superhuman ability and an unbreakable spirit that make him not only a formidable adversary but also an inspiration to many.

As he faces numerous challenges with a big smile on his face, Luffy gathers one-of-a-kind companions to join him in his ambitious endeavor, together embracing perils and wonders on their once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

The Grand Voyage of “One Piece”: A Review

The Tale of a Pirate’s Dream: An Epic Story Synopsis

“One Piece” is an endlessly captivating saga penned by Eiichiro Oda that chronicles the swashbuckling adventures of Monkey D. Luffy, an ambitious young pirate who possesses the extraordinary power to stretch his body like rubber courtesy of the mysterious Devil Fruit. Luffy sets sail to the grand line, the most dangerous and unpredictable sea in the One Piece world, with the dream of becoming the King of the Pirates and finding the One Piece, a legendary treasure said to be of unimaginable value.

Throughout his journey, Luffy recruits a colorful crew comprising powerful and diverse characters, each with their own dreams and targets, who are more than ready to brave the stormy seas and formidable opponents. From a skilled swordsman carrying the burden of a tragic past to a charismatic cook who dreams of finding the sea where all currents gather, the crew of the Straw Hat Pirates forms an iconic ensemble, resulting in gripping narratives, emotional powerplay, and high-stakes confrontations.

Anchors Away: Deep Diving into the One Piece Anime Experience

The anime adaption of “One Piece” has immortalized the infectious spirit of Eiichiro Oda’s manga. It’s a sprawling epic filled with compelling characters, a meticulously constructed world, heart-wrenching narratives, and awe-inspiring battles. “One Piece” doesn’t just excel in storytelling, it also valorously explores themes like freedom, ambition, friendship, sacrifice, adversity, and the very essence of dreams, leaving viewers not only entertained, but deeply moved and inspired.

“One Piece” boasts a standout animation style, vividly bringing to life each new island Luffy and his crew find themselves on. Whether it’s a towering jungle with prehistoric beasts or an underwater city inhabited by mermaids, each setting is distinct and alive, creating a canvas for some of the most enthralling adventures you’re likely to find in anime.

The anime’s action scenes are nothing short of exhilarating. With each character having their unique abilities, we are treated to breathtaking battles that keep us on the edge of our seats. The choreography may be stylized, but it never forgets to provide a sense of tension and stakes, interlacing the raw emotion that comes with each punch and slash.

Should You Set Sail with “One Piece”?

Absolutely – yes! Whether you’re an old sea dog or a newcomer with a penchant for treasure hunt, “One Piece” will draw you in with its exciting roster of characters, immersive world, and engrossing narratives. If you’re looking to invest in an anime that offers more than just mindless action, “One Piece” sails in as a top-tier choice. Rent it, buy it, stream it – whatever you do, make sure you experience the epic saga of “One Piece” would be a golden opportunity missed if you don’t.

Remember, the sea is vast and full of wonders, and so is “One Piece”. Aye aye, Captain!

One Piece
8.71 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
One Piece offers viewers an immersive storyline, full of exciting adventures and unique, well-developed characters. The comedic elements blend seamlessly with intense battles and emotional scenes, making it a well-rounded anime that caters to a broad audience.
Cons
The anime One Piece can be overwhelming due to its massive episode count, making it a considerable time investment. Some may find the animation quality inconsistent, and the frequent use of flashbacks may annoy certain viewers.
Summary
"One Piece" anime review delves into the exciting world of pirates, treasure hunts, and incredible bonds of friendship. It highlights the fascinating, character-driven plot and the way it interweaves comedy, action, and drama. Readers can find out why this long-running series is an absolute fan favorite, offering a thrilling journey wrapped in distinctive animation.
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