Fall 2019
Ani ni Tsukeru Kusuri wa Nai! 3
FanworksShi Miao is still stuck with her irresponsible elder brother Shi Fen, who lives in neverending fear of his younger sister's stormy temper. As the siblings continue enjoying their carefree high school days alongside their friends and classmates, they realize that there truly is no cure for family.
Ani ni Tsukeru Kusuri wa Nai! 3 – A Rollercoaster of Emotions and Situational Humour
The third season of the increasingly popular anime, ‘Ani ni Tsukeru Kusuri wa Nai!’ continues the hilarious and heartwarming narrative of sibling duo, Shi Fen and Shi Miao. This comedic slice-of-life anime revolves around the everyday life of these two siblings, where Shi Miao often gets annoyed with her lazy elder brother, Shi Fen. The anime delves into their chaotic lives as they navigate the trials and tribulations brought about by various circumstances and misunderstandings.
The anime is enriched by other fascinating characters – Shi Fen’s best friend, Kai Xin and a classroom of quirky individuals who each bring their distinctive flavour to the episodes. Additionally, Shi Miao’s passive-aggressive relationship with her brother often forms the cornerstone of many chucklesome moments. Also, don’t forget about their single mother, who comes across as equally endearing with her perennial dilemma between concern for her children and frustration over their non-stop bickering.
Animation and Art
The animation of ‘Ani ni Tsukeru Kusuri wa Nai! 3’ is simplistic yet high-quality. The clean and vivid art style complements the lighthearted tone of the show. The character designs are expressive and add to the charm, and the visual gags are perfectly executed. The animation never steers away from delivering an atmosphere that is bound to put a smile on your face.
Plot and Storytelling
The storyline, while not very complex, is unswervingly engaging. The characters’ distinct personalities, coupled with their relatable sibling dynamics, add layers of depth to an otherwise simple storyline. The anime’s true strength lies in its situational humour, which feels natural and never forced. The sibling dynamic is brilliantly explored with plenty of ups and downs that create a rollercoaster of emotions.
Character Development
The character development is praiseworthy. Characters are not static, rather they evolve as the series progresses, resulting in more depth and exciting nuances. Notably, Shi Fen’s character development from an annoying elder brother to a more responsible individual is a delightful journey to watch.
Verdict: Stream, Rent, or Buy?
If you’re a fan of slice-of-life comedic anime with a sprinkle of heartwarming moments, ‘Ani ni Tsukeru Kusuri wa Nai! 3’ is a must-see. In the world of anime where battle royales and magical quests reign supreme, this refreshing and hilarious dose of real-life dynamics is sure to win over your heart. The story’s simplicity, alongside its captivating narrative and endearing characters, makes it worth every minute. Rating it, I’d say, for its sheer uniqueness and catchy narrative, this one’s a buy!
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Beastars
OrangeIn a civilized society of anthropomorphic animals, an uneasy tension exists between carnivores and herbivores. At Cherryton Academy, this mutual distrust peaks after a predation incident results in the death of Tem, an alpaca in the school's drama club. Tem's friend Legoshi, a grey wolf in the stage crew, has been an object of fear and suspicion for his whole life. In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, he continues to lay low and hide his menacing traits, much to the disapproval of Louis, a red deer and the domineering star actor of the drama club.
When Louis sneaks into the auditorium to train Tem's replacement for an upcoming play, he assigns Legoshi to lookout duty. That very night, Legoshi has a fateful encounter with Haru, a white dwarf rabbit scorned by her peers. His growing feelings for Haru, complicated by his predatory instincts, force him to confront his own true nature, the circumstances surrounding the death of his friend, and the undercurrent of violence plaguing the world around him.
BEASTARS: Where Carnivores and Herbivores Collide – Anime Review
Story Synopsis
Located in a civilized world of anthropomorphic animals with a cultural divide between carnivores and herbivores, BEASTARS offers a provocative look into societal norms through the lens of the animal kingdom. Our protagonist, Legoshi, a large gray wolf yet introverted student at Cherryton Academy, who is intimidating and feared by many due to his formidable appearance, finds himself in the awkward situation of developing a romantic interest in a dwarf rabbit named Haru. Haru, who has her own complexity of personality and a dark past beneath her cute façade. Legoshi is torn between his predatory instincts and his budding feelings.
Throughout the series, Beastars explores the tumultuous spectrum of emotions and social issues that plague its dynamic characters against the backdrop of their predator-prey society. It sets an excellent stage for exploring societal norms, discrimination, self-identity issues, and the battle to find a place in a world that hardly accepts you for who you are. It’s a deeply thrilling tale of action, romance, mystery, and introspection that monitors the primal versus the sophisticated.
The Anime Critic’s Review
First off, let’s get one thing out of the way – Beastars is a gorgeously animated show! The CGI is some of the best in the business, seamlessly blending with the 2D animation to create an immersive, lively world that is as charming as it is unnerving. The character designs are fantastic and can switch from cute to menacing in a heartbeat, a duality that the series exploits brilliantly.
But where Beastars truly shines is in its storytelling. It takes the “natural predator/prey” dynamics of the animal kingdom and uses them as an allegory to tackle serious societal issues such as racism, classism, and even sexual consent. Our personas are molded not only by our genes but also by the societal expectations and pressures we shoulder from a young age. The narrative challenges the idea of “nature vs nurture,” questioning if we can ever truly break free from the chains of our predispositions and the boxes society puts us in.
Legoshi’s struggle to reconcile his predatory impulses with his gentle nature is beautifully depicted and provides some of Beastars’ most poignant moments. His relationship with Haru is complex and thought-provoking, raising questions about the nature of love and attraction amidst their predator-prey dynamic. The supporting cast, while fewer in screen-time, provides layers of texture to the world of Beastars, showing different species tackling their own unique struggles within the same society.
The pacing of Beastars can often feel slow, especially for casual viewers. However, this deliberate pacing coupled with the introspective dialogue beautifully enhances the depth of the narrative. The series also interjects this introspection with some intense action sequences that portray the sheer primal power these characters possess, making for some highly thrilling viewing moments.
To sum up, with its unique premise, complex character relationships, and a sociopolitical commentary woven into its narrative, Beastars is a standout anime series. Its bold handling of mature themes merges with stunning animation that breathes life into this animal-dominated world. A word of caution – the series does tread into mature territory, so viewer discretion is advised.
Rent, buy, or stream it? As the Anime Critic, my advice would be not just to stream but to buy if you’re into thoughtful anime that pokes and prods at societal norms and provides a novel exploration of the human psyche. Beastars may just be an unforgettable entry in your anime library!
Animation: 10/10
Story: 9/10
Character Development: 9/10
Overall Rating: 9.3/10
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Boku no Hero Academia 4th Season
BonesAfter successfully passing his Provisional Hero License exam, Izuku "Deku" Midoriya seeks out an extracurricular internship with a professional hero agency. At the recommendation of his mentor All Might, Midoriya lands a position under All Might's former sidekick, Sir Nighteye, now a famous hero in his own right.
As Midoriya's classmates further their own abilities through various internships, up-and-coming villain Kai Chisaki utilizes his terrifying powers to gather favor in the criminal underworld. Known by the moniker Overhaul, Chisaki's ambitions collide with the League of Villains and its leader, Tomura Shigaraki.
Through his work with Sir Nighteye, Midoriya discovers Chisaki's crime syndicate and the villain's hostile relationship with a mysterious young girl named Eri. Fearing for the child's safety, Midoriya and his upperclassman Mirio Toogata must work together to put an end to Chisaki's reign of terror.
Once A Quirkless Dreamer, Now A Symbol….A Review of Boku no Hero Academia 4th Season
Synopsis:
Boku no Hero Academia, known as My Hero Academia in English, is a vibrant superhero tale that weaves a rich tapestry of colorful characters and dynamic storytelling to create a fantastic world unlike any other. The 4th season further delves into the adventures of Izuku Midoriya, a young boy who lives in a world where superpowers, called “Quirks,” are widespread. Once quirkless, Izuku received his power from the world’s greatest Hero, All Might, and now he studies at the prestigious U.A. High School to hone his abilities and fulfill his dream to become a Hero like his idol.
This season sees a significant shift as the vacuum left by All Might’s retirement is felt across society, stirring the pot and bringing both new Heroes and Villains to the front lines. The season kicks off with the introduction of a new, formidable villain, Overhaul, and the stakes raised as ever. Meanwhile, Izuku and his friends face the harsh realities and responsibilities of being Heroes, dealing with pressing societal issues, and grappling with what it truly means to take up the mantle of being a Hero.
Plot and Development:
Boku no Hero Academia 4th Season takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions with its incredibly well-structured plot. The urgency in the story grips you as the Heroes are forced to go beyond their limits to enforce justice. Overhaul, with his deadly quirk and ruthless plans, pushes the story into darker, more intense territories while revealing more about the wider societal implications of the quirk phenomenon.
The development of side characters like Mirio Togata, Eri, and Kirishima adds emotional depth and variety to the narrative. Their struggles, victories, and setbacks add more layers to the rich tapestry that is Boku no Hero Academia. The contrast between the ideologies of different characters further enhance the series’ exploration of what it truly means to be a Hero amidst chaos.
Animation, Art and Soundtrack:
The animation in this season is exemplary, with Studio Bones once again delivering top-notch quality. The action scenes are fluid, detailed, and beautifully choreographed, making every fight scene incredibly exciting. You’re always on the edge of your seat, waiting to see the Heroes’ epic displays of their quirks.
The color palette encapsulates the tone of the series perfectly, contrasting the vibrant school life with the grittier shades of the battles. Boku no Hero Academia’s music has always been iconic, and Season 4 doesn’t disappoint. The soundtrack complements every scene, whether it’s a high-octane battle or an emotional introspective, elevating the viewing experience tenfold.
Final Verdict:
Season 4 is definitely a must-watch! It further fertilizes the ground that the previous seasons have laid before it, expanding on its characters, building its world, and escalating its plot. Plus Ultra, the series motto, adequately represents this season, as it truly pushes beyond its excellent standard. So if you’re wondering whether to rent, buy or stream it, my advise- ‘Max out your internet speed and binge watch this masterpiece!’
So gear up, my fellow quirk enthusiasts! Buckle down, and dive right into this sensational superhero saga. Boku no Hero Academia 4th Season is a thrilling ride that will leave you craving for more! It not only lives up to its name but solidifies its place as one of the best modern shonen anime.
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Chihayafuru 3
MadhouseWinning the high school team tournament was a great accomplishment for the Mizusawa members. Each of them has made great strides in improving themselves, and the victory symbolizes how far they have come. But after accomplishing one goal, their individual aims are within reach. Chihaya Ayase has her sights set on Shinobu Wakamiya and the title of Queen, and now that Taichi Mashima has made it into Class A, he can finally compete against Arata Wataya. Everyone in Mizusawa wants to get better, and there is no telling what the future holds if they keep trying.
Chihayafuru 3 Anime Review: The Heart of Karuta
An intriguing mix of sports, slice of life, and romance genres, Chihayafuru has been captivating audiences since its debut in 2011. Now in its third season, the saga of Chihaya Ayase and her quest for Karuta mastery continues to unfold.
Season 3 of Chihayafuru introduces us to Chihaya now in her second year of high school, her passion for Karuta as gripping as ever. However, her journey is not solely about Karuta, but also about the mesmerizing web of relationships, challenges, and personal growth that comes with it. This season further examines the dynamics between Chihaya and her two closest friends/competitors–Arata and Taichi–while introducing exciting new competitors and refreshing the beloved game of Karuta that is central to the series.
Story & Characters
The third season advances these narratives phenomenally, delivering a thrilling mixture of rivalry, camaraderie, and love. Chihayafuru 3 dives deeper into the complexities of its main characters and minor characters alike with an uncanny ability to give the audience fresh perspectives. Each character’s unique motivations and different styles of playing Karuta is explored and cherished. These developments make every Karuta match a spectacle filled with palpable tension and stirring emotional payoff.
Animation & Sound
The animation quality remains as strong as previous seasons, with Madhouse doing a stellar job in fluidly representing high-speed Karuta matches. Vibrant colors and rich details make the competitive scenes come to life.
The sound department also needs a mention here as the serene traditional Japanese music score complements the reach of the show perfectly. Even the action-filled Karuta matches are punctuated by silent pauses, allowing the rhythmic sound of cards being slapped to take center stage.
Conclusion
Chihayafuru Season 3, with its seamless blend of sports-drama and slice-of-life, delivers a wonderfully balanced anime experience. It explores personal journeys, friendships, rivalries, love, and the beautifully complex game of Karuta. A treat for returning fans and potentially engrossing for newcomers, the intricate world of Chihayafuru is a masterclass in storytelling.
All three seasons are available for streaming on Crunchyroll, with English subtitles. If you wish to bask in the emotional depth, beautiful animation, and compelling gameplay of Chihayafuru, renting or streaming this series is highly recommended. For the die-hard fans, investing in a physical copy might just be the best way to relive Chihaya’s engrossing journey time and again.
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Fate/Grand Order: Zettai Majuu Sensen Babylonia
CloverWorksA.D. 2016, the foundations of humanity have been incinerated by the Mage King Solomon. Chaldea, a secret mages organization with the mission to preserve humanity's future, foresaw mankind's extinction in 2015. Thus commenced the operation to repair the Singularities in history caused by Holy Grails dispersed across time and space—Operation Grand Order.
Using the Rayshift time travel technology, Chaldea's last master Ritsuka Fujimaru and his demi-servant Mash Kyrielight have traveled to and resolved six Singularities. Now, they depart for their most dangerous destination yet: a civilization in the Age of Gods, B.C. 2655 Mesopotamia. Ritsuka and Mash soon discover that Demonic Beasts roam the land, attacking people and towns. Amidst chaos and terror lies humanity's last defense—Uruk, a fortress city that acts as the frontline for the battle against the beasts. The battlefront is commanded by none other than King Gilgamesh, the King of Heroes, who sought aid from Heroic Spirits and took on the role of a mage to protect his city.
Along with Gilgamesh and the summoned servants, Ritsuka and Mash must protect Uruk against the magical beasts' onslaught and defeat the Three Goddess Alliance who aims to eradicate humankind; all the while, a greater threat looms over Uruk, preparing for its awakening.
Fate/Grand Order: Zettai Majuu Sensen Babylonia: An in-depth review
In the thriving world of Chaldea Security Organization, humanity’s continuation stands as the primary task. Fate/Grand Order: Zettai Majuu Sensen Babylonia strides forward, following the protagonist, Ritsuka Fujimaru and his demi-servant, Mash Kyrielight, who have been striving to save humanity by resolving sundry historical Singularities. The time-traveling duo lands in the ancient Mesopotamia, the alleged origin of humankind’s civilization, in B.C. 2655. Facing the final Singularity, they must fight a pivotal battle that will determine humanity’s fate.
Upon their arrival, they meet the legendary king Gilgamesh, who requests their assistance in combating the Three Goddess Alliance—mysterious entities vandalizing Uruk, the primitive capital. As they unravel the truth behind these goddesses, they find roots connecting them to an even greater calamity looming over the grand fate of Babylonia.
Storyline and Characters
Fate/Grand Order: Zettai Majuu Sensen Babylonia delivers an intense narrative that will captivate you from start to end. It develops a historical setting wrapped with alluring mythology that ensures an immersive anime experience. It articulately maneuvers the balance between presenting the grandeur of the mythological figures and maintaining a plot that is rich and enjoyable to follow. The characters are likable, with distinct personalities that meld together to form an engaging variety.
Animation and Soundtrack
Animation is the heart of any anime and Fate/Grand Order does not disappoint in this aspect. The eye-popping visuals and the meticulous detailing of the characters are testimony to the admirable work put into its animation. Each featured servant has an iconic move that is beautifully depicted, making the fighting sequences incomparably entertaining.
In terms of soundtrack, the selection of musical tracks does a phenomenal job in capturing the mood and atmosphere of various scenes, complementing the animation. The opening song is captivatingly energetic, while the ending song leaves an emotional impact, fitting with the overall theme.
Should You Stream, Rent, or Buy?
If you’re a fan of the Fate series or if you’re a newbie looking for a magical action adventure, we suggest you not to miss out on Fate/Grand Order: Zettai Majuu Sensen Babylonia. With its stunning visuals, addictive plot and captivating characters, it’s definitely worth a streaming binge. Buying might be a splendid option for passionate anime collectors – this series surely earns a place in any discerning collection. As for renting, the series’ sheer replayability makes it a superb choice, especially for those uncertain about the full Fate series but excited for a taste of its grandeur.
Verdict
Engrossingly combative and sincerely emotional, Fate/Grand Order: Zettai Majuu Sensen Babylonia delivers a memorable anime experience that skyrockets with resonant themes and exhilarating action. Its compelling story is artfully backed by remarkable animation and a dramatic soundtrack – an enchanting amalgamation that will leave you hankering for more. Truly, it’s a worthy experience that confidently strides as a gem in the Fate series.
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High Score Girl II
J.C.StaffThe year is 1996, and second-year high school students Haruo Yaguchi, Akira Oono, and Koharu Hidaka live their lives as passionately about video games as they were five years ago. Brought together by arcade games, what began as a healthy rivalry and friendship has turned into something more. As they endeavour towards understanding their unfamiliar feelings, they work with allies, navigate high school, and find that, although life has its many challenges, there's always a game or two they can rely on.
High Score Girl II – An Arcade Love Story with a Nostalgic Twist
In the world of anime, High Score Girl II takes us back to the early 90s, a time when gaming arcades were at the height of their popularity. Set in suburban Tokyo, our silent protagonist is Haruo Yaguchi, a high school student who loves nothing more than to frequent the local arcade, immersing himself in games after school. His gaming skills are unparalleled, until he meets Akira Oono, the quiet, rich girl of his school who astonishingly proves to be equally gifted, if not superior, in the world of gaming.
Their unexpected rivalry gradually blossoms into a deep, intimate connection, where they communicate and understand each other through their shared passion for gaming. It’s not a stereotypical romance. It’s unique, sweet and quite heartfelt. The series as a whole plays an exquisite balancing act, mixing elements of gaming, comedy and romance that isn’t just humorous, but also engaging as it delves deeper into the complexities of young love while remaining true to its arcade gaming heart.
Review: Why High Score Girl II is Worth Every Penny
Delving into the review, High Score Girl II continues directly from where its predecessor concluded, managing to preserve its breezy tone and narrative rhythm impeccably. The series maintains its enthralling sense of humor, with our two protagonists hilariously navigating through their shared gaming world, tripping over the hurdles of young love and miscommunication.
High Score Girl II sets itself apart with its distinctive art style. The CGI animation might seem unconventional at first, but it offers this bold series a unique aesthetic that aligns perfectly with its story of retro gaming. The vibrant colors, inspiration from old-school gaming graphics, and smooth animations truly make High Score Girl II a feast for the eyes.
One intriguing component of High Score Girl II is its music. The nostalgic, yet surprisingly modern, soundtrack immerses viewers into the world of the series, enhancing pivotal scenes and evoking feelings of nostalgia from retro gaming enthusiasts, while still complementing the storyline brilliantly.
Rent, Buy or Stream?
So, here’s the million-dollar question: Should you rent, buy or stream High Score Girl II? This series oozes nostalgia, humor and the intricacies of young heartache – all wrapped up in the vibrant bow of an arcade game motif. With its excellent scripting and pacing, appropriate and sometimes experimental CGI, along with its stellar character development, it’s definitely one that deserves a permanent spot in your anime library.
However, do not take that to mean it isn’t stream-worthy. High Score Girl II, with its episodic structure and light-hearted tone, is perfect for those casual nights when you want to relax and enjoy something fun and heartfelt. The detailed gaming references and humor also make it a splendid watch for gaming fans and anime enthusiasts alike.
Taking all that into account, High Score Girl II certainly earns a buy for its all encompassing charm and appeal. It is a delicately strewn love letter to arcade gaming that seamlessly incorporates a heartfelt, coming-of-age story. Definitely a must-watch for any anime enthusiast, gamer or hopeless romantic!
Thanks for reading and see you in the next review, keep gaming!
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Honzuki no Gekokujou: Shisho ni Naru Tame ni wa Shudan wo Erandeiraremasen
Ajia-doUrano Motosu loves books and has an endless desire to read literature, no matter the subject. She almost fulfills her dream job of becoming a librarian before her life is ended in an accident. As she draws her last breath, she wishes to be able to read more books in her next life.
As if fate was listening to her prayer, she wakes up reincarnated as Myne—a frail five-year-old girl living in a medieval era. What immediately comes to her mind is her passion. She tries to find something to read, only to become frustrated by the lack of books at her disposal.
Without the printing press, books have to be written and copied by hand, making them very expensive; as such, only a few nobles can afford them—but this won't stop Myne. She will prove that her will to read is unbreakable, and if there are no books around, she will make them herself!
Synopsis of Honzuki no Gekokujou: Shisho ni Naru Tame ni wa Shudan wo Erandeiraremasen
“Fascinatingly unique and totally engrossing! Honzuki no Gekokujou: Shisho ni Naru Tame ni wa Shudan wo Erandeiraremasen a.k.a Ascendance of a Bookworm is an irresistible combination of fantasy, drama, and slice of life, wrapped up with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Our protagonist, Myne, was once your average Japanese bookworm, until an untimely event led her to be reborn into a world where books are scarce and only for the wealthy. Her new life lacks the books she loves so dear, which fuels her to take extraordinary strides to create and print her own, even in the face of her frail health.
Enter the world where knowledge and books are considered luxurious entitlements. With scarce resources but a plentiful ambition, Myne makes it her life’s mission to turn her dreams into a reality. To give life and accessibility to the worlds that only exist within the realms of books, she doggedly confronts the hurdles that come her way. With a stalwart resilience and a heart full of passion for books, this is the journey of an unlikely heroine in the making.
Anime Review
“Doesn’t that synopsis make your heart pound with excitement? My fellow anime connoisseurs, buckle up as Honzuki no Gekokujou drags you into a world so infused with the love for reading that it is nothing short of a bibliophile’s dream. While strongly grounded in the slice of life genre, this anime takes it a notch up by converging themes of fantasy and drama, and boy, does it deliver!
If you’re a fan of strong, ambitious, and sharp characters, you’ll absolutely adore Myne. Her path of ascending from a commoner to a bookworm in this alternate world is no short of an inspirational tale. Yet, she does not lose her empathetic appeal, resonating with watchers on multiple levels. Her conviction to make literature accessible to all breaks the wall of fiction, making you an absolute cheerleader for her cause.
Let’s have a moment to appreciate the stunning artwork. With subtly beautiful animation, it captivates you into the journey of a lifetime with the dynamic ambiance it provides for the developing narrative. And the soundtrack, oh, the soundtrack! It perfectly enwraps the emotional roller coaster the story takes you on, becoming an exquisite cherry on top of an already delectable anime experience.
As for pacing, it never feels rushed or drawn out. Every episode seems to have its own rhythm that feels attuned to the arc of the story. With two wholesome seasons and an OVA, it’s a treat for fans looking for a diverse and engaging viewing experience, leaving you longing for ‘just one more episode.’
Can you stream it, rent it, or buy it? Yes, to all three. If you’re a fan of well-paced storytelling, complex character development, and beautiful animation, then this anime surely deserves a space in your streaming queues, rental lists or even your personal collections.
To put it concisely, Ascendance of a Bookworm is a unique coming-of-age story that combines ambition with adversity and fantasy in a world of books. A definite must-watch for those craving an atypical anime experience. And remember guys, no spoilers! Enjoy watching!”
That’s all for now, folks! Until next time, keep exploring the world of anime with ‘The Anime Critic.’
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Kono Oto Tomare! Part 2
Platinum VisionThe Tokise High School Koto Club has courageously pushed through their fractured and unsynchronized performance at the Kanto Region Traditional Japanese Music Festival. Club members Chika Kudou, Satowa Houzuki, Takezou Kurata, Hiro Kurusu, Kouta Mizuhara, Saneyasu Adachi, and Michitaka Sakai are devastated to learn the negative results of their performance, leaving them crushed. Nonetheless, the group recognizes their potential and enthusiastically agree to collectively sharpen their skills, improve their flaws, and develop higher caliber playing to succeed in the upcoming national qualifiers in winter.
With the help of their now willing club advisor Suzuka Takinami, the group's goal gradually becomes achievable as they begin to grasp the foundations of good music and refine their koto-playing abilities, with the suggestion of performing more often to gain what they lack most—experience.
However, as their journey to nationals is underway, the koto club members face challenges that obstruct their focus and progress. Not only does the threat of other powerhouse schools and musicians remain, but the high school issues of budding romance and soon-to-be-graduating seniors also begin to push the limits of the determined group of teenagers and the future of the koto club.
Ho there, anime enthusiasts! It’s your resident Anime Critic darting in with another in-depth review for you. And what an excitement we have on our plate today! It’s time to revisit an anime series that captured our hearts with its melodious storyline, vibrant characters, and deep-dive into traditional Japanese music. Yes, get ready to sync with the resonating Koto strings as we embark on the review journey of Kono Oto Tomare! Part 2 .
The saga of underdog Koto players from the anime “Kono Oto Tomare!” continues in this second installment. The Tokise High School Koto Club, led by the steadfast Chika, the tenacious Takezou, and the musically gifted prodigy, Satowa, bravely battle prejudice, lack of experience, and other setbacks to keep their club alive. In part 2, their musical journey escalates as they stride towards their ultimate goal—the National Koto Competition. The stakes are higher, the competitions are fiercer, and the bonding among the team members gains an even deeper resonance, and this paves the way for a symphony of emotions, drama, and inspiring music.
Storyline and Character Development:
Kono Oto Tomare! Part 2 serves us a hearty banquet of elements that we love and crave in anime. Thrilling competition, deeper exploration of characters, unforgettable friendships, and an inspiring tale of determination. The narrative smoothly aligns with the first part, effectively delving into the personal stories of our beloved characters, whilst simultaneously delivering on the high-tension musical competition premise.
Art and Musical Direction:
Visually, the anime doesn’t disappoint. The design and animation continue to breathe life into characters while creating a pleasing aesthetic presentation. However, what truly makes this anime series a gem is its music. The melodies of Koto that reverberate across the episodes are nothing short of spell-binding. They captivate our senses and transport us to the heart of Japan, with its rich, cultural vibrancy.
Should You Stream, Rent, or Buy?
If you savored Part 1, then Part 2 is an absolute must-watch. The soaring melodious journey of the Tokise High School Koto Club is something to be cherished. Stream it if you want a taste of what’s in store. But, the intricacies and depth of the storyline, coupled with the enchanting Koto music, make this anime a prime candidate for a spot in your personal collection. Buying is the way to go for this one!
Bottom Line: Kono Oto Tomare! Part 2 doesn’t just hit the right notes; it strums the strings of your heart. With its brilliant balance of story, characters, art, and music, it only reiterates one of the fundamental truths of anime – it is, indeed, a beautiful art form that transcends mere entertainment.
Until we sync again, this is your Anime Critic, signing off with a solid A rating for Kono Oto Tomare! Part 2. Stay tuned for more reviews, and keep living the anime life!
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Mairimashita! Iruma-kun
Bandai Namco PicturesFourteen-year-old Iruma Suzuki has been unfortunate all his life, having to work to earn money for his irresponsible parents despite being underage. One day, he finds out that his parents sold him to the demon Sullivan. However, Iruma's worries about what will become of him are soon relieved, for Sullivan merely wants a grandchild, pampering him and making him attend the demon school Babyls.
At first, Iruma tries to keep a low profile in fear of his peers discovering that he is human. Unfortunately, this ends up being more difficult than he expected. It turns out that Sullivan himself is the chairman of the school, and everyone expects him to become the next Demon King!
Iruma immediately finds himself in an outrageous situation when he has to chant a forbidden spell in front of the entire school. With this, Iruma instantly earns a reputation he does not want. Even so, he is bound to be roped into more bizarre circumstances.
THE INCREDIBLE WORLD OF “MAIRIMASHITA! IRUMA-KUN” DEFINITIVE REVIEW
Let’s step into the fiery depths of the Underworld with our review of the captivating anime “Mairimashita! Iruma-kun”.
“Mairimashita! Iruma-kun” is a refreshing comedy-fantasy anime that dives into the life of Iruma Suzuki, a boy of 14, who has spent most of his life catering to the whims of his irresponsible parents. In a strange turn of events, he is sold by his parents to a demon named Sullivan. However, Sullivan isn’t interested in eating or torturing Iruma; instead, he has always wanted a grandson. So, he adopts Iruma, and takes him to the underworld where he enrolls him in the Babylus Demon School. Iruma is now surrounded by demons, but the catch here is that humans are on the menu, and he needs to keep his identity secret.
STORY & CHARACTERS
“Mairimashita! Iruma-kun” unlocks a genuinely remarkable blend of comedy, fantasy, and heartwarming moments. The story line is simple yet compelling enough to hook you in with its’ unique climaxes and plot twists. While the anime dives into the underworld, the cute and friendly representations of the demons become instantly amiable with an ensemble of interesting and often hilarious characters, adorned with a quirky sense of humor.
ANIMATION & SOUND
Visually, “Mairimashita! Iruma-kun” is a colorful treat. The animation provided by Bandai Namco Pictures is lively and clean, with a charming art style that does a fantastic job capturing the vibrant and eccentric underworld society. The sound track adds to the overall fun environment – opening theme “Magical Babyrinth” by DA PUMP and the end theme, “Devi-Cue” by Yu Serizawa will stick in your head, long after you finish watching the episode.
THE FINAL VERDICT
“Mairimashita! Iruma-kun” is highly entertaining and has enough substance to keep you laughing and enjoying through its entire run. Iruma, being the lovable protagonist that he is, inspires the plot throughout the series with memorable moments and sheer likability. It’s one of those anime where entertaining characters and fun narrative play a greater role than the overarching story itself.
If you’re looking for an anime that’ll give you a lot of laughs, warmth and a unique storyline, then I would without a doubt recommend you rent, stream or even go as far as to purchase “Mairimashita! Iruma-kun”. Offering a great combination of humor, adventures, and a fascinating peek into the world of demons, it is definitely a series not to be missed!
In summary, “Mairimashita! Iruma-kun” is a delightful rollercoaster ride in the literal underworld, a fun-filled journey of an ordinary human boy living his extraordinary life among demons!
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