Fall 2005
Aria the Animation
Hal Film MakerDrift peacefully into Neo Venezia, a city on the planet Aqua (formerly known as Mars). By the 24th century, humans have found a way to colonize the previously uninhabitable planet. As futuristic as that sounds, Neo Venezia is still teeming with rustic beauty; gondolas on wide canals and waterways are the main mode of transportation. The city itself is a faithful replication of Manhome's (the planet formerly known as Earth) Venice.
To make sure that residents and tourists alike get the most from Neo Venezia's many wonders, companies offering guided tours via gondola were formed, one of which is named Aria Company.
This is the workplace of Akari Mizunashi, a free spirited teenager from Manhome who is now a novice Undine (the title given to tour guides). Join Akari as she becomes intimately acquainted with other Undine, tourists, Neo Venezia's residents, and even the city itself, learning many valuable life lessons along the way, such as the wonderful truth that there are such things as manmade miracles.
Aria The Animation: A Tranquil Journey Into A New World
Hi fellow otaku! Today we’re diving into the relaxing and atmospheric world of Aria The Animation. This slice of life anime, based on the manga series by Kozue Amano, provides a serene experience unlike any other.
Story Synopsis
Aria The Animation is set in the 24th century on a terraformed Mars, now known as the planet Aqua. The story revolves around Akari Mizunashi, a young woman from Manhome (formerly Earth) who dreams of becoming an undine — a professional gondolier and tour guide. She currently trains with the prestigious Aria Company and navigates her way through the charming city of Neo-Venezia, a re-creation of a beautiful Venetian cityscape.
Hoopla and action are largely absent from the world of Aria. Instead, the audience is invited to explore everyday life and a warm, hopeful outlook on the future. The series is a swirling mix of nostalgia, friendship, and the simple joys of life that offers an escape from the everyday clamor.
Review: Immersive Serenity
Aria The Animation is a symphony of tranquility and joy, where every subtle moment matters. The pacing is slow — languidly slow — encouraging the audience to stop and soak in the beauty, much like a leisurely gondola ride itself.
The animations are breathtaking, and Neo-Venezia is presented with such detail and care that it becomes a character of its own. Accompanied by the soothing tunes of its Yui Makino-scripted soundtrack, the animation conjures a unique, peaceful realm that you can lose yourself into.
Characters: Brimming with Depth
What sets Aria apart from many slice-of-life anime is its character development. Despite the tranquil routine, every episode contributes to the growth of Akari and her friends Aika and Alice. Their friendships, discoveries, and gentle wisdom become the heartbeat of the series. These relatable, well-rounded characters are undoubtedly what will pull you back episode after episode.
Our Verdict: A Much-Needed Respite
Aria The Animation is a beautiful journey best savored at its own pace. Its leisurely storytelling, outstanding world-building, and nuanced character development make it a genuinely heartwarming experience.
If you’re in the headspace to rent, buy, or stream anime that soothes rather than stimulates, hardly can you go wrong with this one. Aria The Animation is akin to a peaceful gondola ride in the evening, the perfect respite to unwind from our often too hectic reality. It’s not for everyone, but for those who can appreciate its distinct flavor, it will be a rewarding experience.
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Capeta
Studio CometAfter losing his mother at a very young age, elementary school student Capeta Taira is forced to become more independent to avoid his father worrying for him. Working in a paving company, his father is often busy and has to work overtime to make ends meet. However, no matter how tough he acts in front of his father, Capeta is ultimately just a lonely kid with a rough life. In addition to his typical house duties, he has to deal with the bully Nobu Andou which makes him feel worse, despite support from his classmate, Monami Suzuki.
One day, Capeta's father sees young go-kart drivers racing at high speeds and gets inspired by the scene. He then decides to collect scrapped parts available on the track and begins working on a gift for his son. Meanwhile, Capeta and Monami sneak into his workplace, suspecting that his father is up to something. Much to their surprise, they see a go-kart built from discarded parts—with Capeta's name attached to it! Although it lacks an engine and looks worn out, the kart is mostly complete and functional.
Despite the heavy rain, Capeta cannot resist the urge to try out this new machinery. As he drives the kart downhill on a wet road, an incident that is almost a dangerous accident instead becomes a thrilling obsession. No longer bored with life, the engine of Capeta's heart is ignited with a new passion as he journeys into the world of racing.
Anime Spectacular: A Journey through Capeta
Strap in everybody! We’re taking a deep dive into the world of auto racing with the captivating anime series, Capeta! This anime is an electrifying tale of speed, endurance, determination and the unyielding spirit of a young boy. This series spins an engrossing yarn about the trials and triumphs of the young ambitious protagonist, Taira Capeta, and his journey into the world of kart racing.
The story begins with Capeta living a modest life, where his daily routine is anything but glamorous, but everything changes for our hero when his father brings home a scrapped go-kart chassis. Capeta shows his unbridled enthusiasm for kart racing, surprising most around him, and begins his thrilling journey on the asphalt-filled tracks of exhilarating competition. Each episode takes us further into Capeta’s adventures, his life choices, his struggles, friendships, and inevitably his blooming career in the racing world.
Storyline and Characters
The narrative structure of Capeta is one of its enduring qualities. The series doesn’t just focus on races alone, but also delves deep into the personal growth of Capeta and his friends, which creates an authentic approach that makes this anime more than just a mere sports feature. The characterization is done thoughtfully with careful attention to the development of every character, making them relatable and genuine.
Animation and Soundtrack
The animation in Capeta is exceptional, providing the viewers with a sense of velocity, complemented by the high-stakes intensity of the races. Each race encapsulates not just the thrill of speed, but the strategic aspects involved in a race as well. The soundtrack deserves praise too, as it brilliantly captures the essence of each scene and race, creating a captivating ambiance that enhances the viewer’s experience.
Final Thoughts
To call Capeta an adrenaline rush would be an understatement; it’s a wild, heart-stopping ride that keeps you glued to the screen from start to finish. With its compelling story, complex characters, and exceptional animation, Capeta has secured its place amongst the ranks of unforgettable and unique anime series. Whether you’re a fan of anime, racing, or just fantastic storytelling, this series deserves your attention. Now, the question is, should you rent, buy, or stream Capeta?
Considering the consistent quality of each episode in this 52-episode series, and the rewatchability factor, owning the series wouldn’t be a bad investment at all. Renting, on the other hand, would be an acceptable option if you’re new to the genre and want a taste of what it offers. Streaming is always a safe bet if you want to enjoy and indulge in Capeta at your own pace, plus it has the advantage of being accessible from anywhere at any time.
So, fellow anime enthusiasts, take a chance, press the pedal to the metal, and take a thrilling ride with Capeta. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
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Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A's
Seven ArcsAfter solving the incident of the scattered Jewel Seeds, Nanoha Takamachi happily returns to her everyday life, though now with added magic practice in the morning. Exchanging video messages with Fate Testarossa and the crew of the Arthra, Nanoha eagerly awaits the chance to speak with them in person again. But while studying in her room one day, Raising Heart suddenly calls out to Nanoha and warns her of an incoming attack!
The attacker is a young girl named Vita, who calls herself a Belka Knight. She proves her strength by using an intelligent device with a mysterious cartridge system to quickly overwhelm Nanoha. Luckily, the Space-Time Administration Bureau is able to step in before she is completely crushed. Vita and her fellow knights Shamal, Signum, and Zafila are on a mission to steal magical power from mages in order to complete the Book of Darkness, one of the Lost Logia. For what sinister purpose are the knights after this Book of Darkness?
Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A’s — Anime Review
Synopsis:
In the fantastical multiverse of Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A’s, Nanoha Takamachi is an ordinary third-grader who suddenly found herself gifted with a magical wand, Raising Heart, making her a Magic Girl. After a series of cosmic adventures in the first season, Nanoha is back for round two with her friends, but these enchanting chronicles are far from over. The calm after the storm is shattered when danger engulfs Nanoha and her magical friends once again.
In this season, a new villainous pair, Vita and the Wolkenritter, emerge, seeking magical artifacts dubbed “The Jewel Seeds”. The motive is not as sinister as it seems, as they need these artifacts to save their mistress from an insidious curse consuming her. While Nanoha and her friends attempt to thwart the Wolkenritter and gather the Jewel Seeds first, they soon realize the complexities of the ties that bind them to their enemies.
Review:
Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A’s takes the foundation laid by the first season and turns up the power levels to overdrive! The plotline doesn’t just follow the standard ‘magic girl vs big baddie’ trope; it intricately weaves stories of friendship, obligation, and sacrifice, ensuring a riveting narrative for the viewers.
The character development is absolutely captivating. With the introduction of new characters like the noble Wolkenritter and their mistress, the character dynamics shift dramatically. Old bonds are tested, and new, unexpected alliances are formed, making for an interesting ensemble cast.
The animation takes a flight of magical realism in this series, with phenomenal fight sequences and magical transformations to leave the viewers mesmerized. Each skirmish is beautifully choreographed and animated, the spell incantations feeling truly magical in every sense of the word.
Kudos to the sound department as well; the music is immersive and complements the tone and pace of the series beautifully. Whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping battle themes or the heart-rending emotional pieces, the soundtrack does a brilliant job of enhancing the viewing experience.
Overall, Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A’s beautifully blends an engaging storyline, dynamic character relationships, phenomenal animation, and a captivating soundtrack to create a truly magical experience that resonates well beyond the screen.
Whether you’re a fan of the Magical Girl genre or just dipping your toes into the vast anime universe, Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A’s is undoubtedly one for your must-watch list, perfect for renting, buying, or streaming.
Verdict:
All things considered, Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A’s gets a resounding ‘yes’ in all criteria—storytelling, character development, animation quality, and sound. It’s a thoroughly captivating magical ride that keeps viewers invested from the first episode to the last. Undoubtedly a worthy watch!
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Mushishi
Artland"Mushi": the most basic forms of life in the world. They exist without any goals or purposes aside from simply "being." They are beyond the shackles of the words "good" and "evil." Mushi can exist in countless forms and are capable of mimicking things from the natural world such as plants, diseases, and even phenomena like rainbows.
This is, however, just a vague definition of these entities that inhabit the vibrant world of Mushishi, as to even call them a form of life would be an oversimplification. Detailed information on Mushi is scarce because the majority of humans are unaware of their existence.
So what are Mushi and why do they exist? This is the question that a "Mushishi," Ginko, ponders constantly. Mushishi are those who research Mushi in hopes of understanding their place in the world's hierarchy of life.
Ginko chases rumors of occurrences that could be tied to Mushi, all for the sake of finding an answer.
It could, after all, lead to the meaning of life itself.
A Journey Through The Supernatural – A Glimpse into Mushi-shi
Mushi-shi is an anime that takes viewers on an otherworldly journey through an ethereal world filled with supernatural beings known as Mushi. We follow the tranquil and solitary journeys of Ginko, a Mushi master (Mushi-shi) who travels from place to place researching these unique and complex lifeforms and offering help to those tormented by them. This robust pseudo-period piece is set in an alternate Japan that seems lost in time, where nature and the spirit realm intertwine and reshape the societies’ perspective on life and reality.
In this dynamic tale, Mushi are neither good nor evil; they exist beyond the duality that humans perceive. They are an extreme and primordial form of life, varying vastly in their forms and abilities, unseen by the eyes of an average person. To some, Mushi are magical or divine, while to others they induce dread, given their power to cause strange, unexplainable phenomena. Our protagonist, Ginko, aims to understand these enigmatic creatures while also assisting those who suffer due to their interaction with Mushi.
Unraveling the Enigma – Mushi-shi Review
Mushi-shi is an anime that does a remarkable job at presenting deep philosophies rectified by mesmerizing visuals and hauntingly beautiful audio composition. Unlike typical anime that focus on battles or comical interactions, Mushi-shi paints deeper themes using a pallet of folklore, metaphysics, and Japanese cultural nuances. Its narrative approach, illustrating an episodic anthology of Ginko’s experiences, fosters a meditative ambiance.
Perhaps the most exquisite aspect of Mushi-shi is its exceptional ability to illustrate ethereal landscapes that mirror the series’ teetering themes of life, death, and the interconnectedness of nature. The series rests pleasantly in the gray area, where reality fades into the realm of the supernatural, allowing the viewers to step into, and lose themselves, in a world orchestrated by the delicate balance of life and otherworldliness.
Characters that Resonate
Simplicity is the most suitable word to use when describing Mushi-shi’s character design. Our protagonist, Ginko, is at once multifaceted and a riddle with every interaction revealing a new layer of his persona. His calm, soothing demeanor acts as an antithesis to the distress and chaos brought forth by interactions with the mystical Mushi. The episodic nature of the anime introduces a multitude of characters, each having a brief but impactful presence in the storyline.
Mellow Melodies – The Sound of Mushi-shi
Mesmerizing – that’s how one could describe Mushi-shi’s soundtrack. The score is an assortment of serene melodies creating an alluring ambiance that immerses the viewer into the universe of Mushi-shi. It enhances the mystery and philosophical elements of the series while providing an eerily charming undercurrent to the narrative.
The Verdict
As “The Anime Critic,” I suggest that Mushi-shi is an anime that encourages patience, introspection, and an appreciation for the beauty inherent in nature. It transcends the realm of casual viewing with its deep-rooted themes and aesthetic appeal. This anime isn’t about action-packed battles or intricate world-building but about tranquility and the delicate balance between life and the supernatural. If you appreciate a slow-paced, introspective narrative, Mushi-shi is undoubtedly an anime you should rent, buy, or stream. Its unique blend of the supernatural and philosophical elements in an idyllic setting makes it a timeless piece worth experiencing.
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Paradise Kiss
MadhouseOn her way home from school, Yukari Hayasaka is approached by a weird-looking guy who starts looking at her body intently. He's got blond spiky hair, a spiked choker, and multiple piercings on his ears and face. She wants nothing to do with him, and runs away, only to bump into a very tall and beautiful purple-haired woman with a flower pattern around her eye. Yukari faints from shock and wakes up later in a strange place called the Atelier. It turns out that these strangers are fashion designers who attend the most famous art school around, Yazawa Art Academy, and their group wants Yukari to model for their brand in Yazawa Academy's upcoming show.
Yukari turns down their offer and escapes the Atelier, but unknowingly leaves her school ID behind. George Koizumi, the head designer, later sees it and immediately knows she would be the perfect model for them and will not stop until he gets what he wants—and he wants her. Yukari had never considered something as frivolous as modeling before, but could life among these eccentric designers actually prove to be fun? Or will Yukari lose herself in this world of art and passion?
Welcome Anime Lovers! It’s Another Fabulous Day for The Anime Critic’s Review!
The Glittering World of Paradise Kiss
It’s high time we dive into the colorful world of “Paradise Kiss,” a fashion-forward anime that can make even the simplest anime amateur become a couture connoisseur. Crafted by the brilliant mind of Ai Yazawa, “Paradise Kiss” revolves around high school student, Yukari Hayasaka, who is living a life as monotonous and predictable as a ticking clock. Suddenly her world is shot with a streak of color when she is discovered by a group of fashion design students, a quirky quartet who go by the name “Paradise Kiss.”
These trendsetters are on a mission to create a fabulous dress for their fashion show. With Yukari’s unique appearance and her penchant for thinking outside the box, they decide she would make a perfect model for their creation. Our heroine is hesitant at first, more comfortable existing within the lines than coloring outside of them, but as she steps into this vibrant world of fashion and freedom, she begins to see life from a whole new perspective.
Passion, Fashion, and a Whole Lot of Action
Within its 12-episode run, “Paradise Kiss” will keep you captivated with its dramatic storyline and in-depth character development that goes beyond the typical high school romance trope. It’s a tale of coming-of-age, individuality, and self-expression that intertwines with the vibrant world of fashion and design.
What makes this anime stand out is its believability. As Yukari passionately immerses herself into the world of fashion, facing both triumphants and trials, you will find yourself in her shoes, inspired by her determination and resilience despite the challenges thrown her way.
Resplendent Artwork and Animation
The visuals of “Paradise Kiss” blends realism with surrealistic elements, bringing a fresh approach to the animation style. The vivid color palette, the unique character designs, and the highly detailed costumes are a feast for your eyes. Episodes are perfectly paced with visual vibrancy, giving each significant moment its deserved spotlight.
Should You Rent, Buy or Stream Paradise Kiss?
If you’re looking for a unique anime that strikes an incredible balance between drama, romance, and fashion – “Paradise Kiss” is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss. Whether to rent, buy or stream depends mostly on your viewing habits. For those who love to savor every frame at their leisure, buying or renting the DVD would be ideal. For those who prefer streaming, this anime is available on several platforms.
In whatever way you choose to consume it, “Paradise Kiss” is definitely worth your time and investment. It’s not just an anime; it’s a journey into the world of passion, perseverance, and personal growth with a dazzling touch of high fashion!
Wrap Up
So, there you have it, folks! An anime that pushes the boundaries of its genre, “Paradise Kiss” combines fashion, romance, and self-discovery into a compelling series that can be appreciated by all.
Until next time, this is The Anime Critic saying, “Keep watching, keep discovering, and always unleash the true fan within you!”
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Touhai Densetsu Akagi: Yami ni Maiorita Tensai
MadhouseWhile mahjong is a game that is often played with family and friends, it is also a game that is played in the darkest corners of society. Nangou is a compulsive gambler who has accumulated debt over three million yen. In a last ditch attempt to clear his record, he decides to wager his life on a game of mahjong with the mafia. Unfortunately, as the game progresses, Nangou only moves further from the prize and closer to death.
When all hope seems lost, the game parlor is suddenly intruded upon by Shigeru Akagi, a young boy on the run from the police. Desperate to turn the game around, Nangou hands the game over to Akagi after teaching him a few of the rules. The mafia can only smirk as Akagi sits down to play. However, they soon come to learn that Akagi is a natural-born gambler. An imposing figure who does not fear death. One who is destined to become a legend.
TOUHAI DENSETSU AKAGI: YAMI NI MAIORITA TENSAI REVIEW
Delve into the world of high-stakes mahjong like never before with Touhai Densetsu Akagi: Yami ni Maiorita Tensai, a thrilling saga that fuses the complexity of mahjong with the high tension of psychological warfare. The story revolves around Shigeru Akagi, an unsophisticated young man with a knack for games. Having never played a game of mahjong in his life, he stumbles point-blank into a vipers’ den of hardened criminals who are also high-stakes mahjong players.
Nevertheless, his intuitive understanding of human psychology and his fearless spirit transform him into a formidable player and a force to be reckoned with. The anime encapsulates his journey from an unpredictable novice to a mahjong prodigy, featuring his nail-biting victories and brilliant strategies. It’s a gripping tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat, with its intense and unpredictable plot driven by the mental battles happening across the mahjong table.
ART AND ANIMATION
Touhai Densetsu Akagi has a distinctly unique art style that sets it apart from your everyday anime. It beautifully captures the high-stakes, gritty underworld of mahjong gambling. While the character designs might seem unconventional at first, they grow on you as you immerse deeper into the unfolding drama. The dark color palette complements the tense atmosphere, adding to the overall suspense and intrigue.
CHARACTERIZATION
The character of Shigeru Akagi is intriguing, rendering him an unlikely hero. Despite his boyish looks, he possesses razor-sharp wits and reactions, openly defying the stinging peril of the underworld. He’s a protagonist who keeps you guessing, adding an extra layer of mystique to the show.
STORY AND PACE
Even if you’re new to mahjong, the show does a fantastic job explaining the intricacies of the game and its strategies. Each episode is filled with suspense, keeping viewers constantly on edge. The pacing is also commendable, without unnecessary stretch or fillers.
SOUND AND MUSIC
The music of Touhai Densetsu Akagi is incredibly fitting for its intense atmosphere. Its dramatic, orchestral score creates an immersive auditory experience that efficiently complements the dark tone of the anime. Voice acting is also top-notch, with each character’s voice perfectly aligning with their persona.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Touhai Densetsu Akagi is not your typical anime. It doesn’t just tell a gripping tale of high-stakes gambling; instead, it offers a profound exploration of human psychology and fear. The unconventional art style, coupled with its intense rendering of mahjong, make it a must-watch for anyone looking for something different and thrilling.
Whether you decide to rent, buy, or stream this anime, you’re signing up for a roller-coaster ride filled with suspense, twists, and turns. Roll the dice and see where it leads you!
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