Spring 2008
Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2
SunriseOne year has passed since the Black Rebellion, a failed uprising against the Holy Britannian Empire led by the masked vigilante Zero, who is now missing. At a loss without their revolutionary leader, Area 11's resistance group—the Black Knights—find themselves too powerless to combat the brutality inflicted upon the Elevens by Britannia, which has increased significantly in order to crush any hope of a future revolt.
Lelouch Lamperouge, having lost all memory of his double life, is living peacefully alongside his friends as a high school student at Ashford Academy. His former partner C.C., unable to accept this turn of events, takes it upon herself to remind him of his past purpose, hoping that the mastermind Zero will rise once again to finish what he started, in this thrilling conclusion to the series.
Synopsis
Nestled in the midst of a dystopian universe is an alternate-reality version of the Earth, where the Holy Empire of Britannia has established dominance over one-third of the world. Welcome to the vividly painted world of Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2. Our protagonist, Lelouch Lamperouge, is an exiled Britannian prince, who leads a life of obscurity at Ashford Academy, but finds his life irrevocably upended when he obtains the ‘power of absolute obedience,’ known as Geass, from a mysterious girl named C.C. With this, he ventures on his path of rebellion, under the alter ego of “Zero,” seeking to uproot the Britannian rule from Japan (Area 11).
In this enthralling sequel to the first season, Lelouch, who is led to believe that he had been living an uneventful student life post the Black Rebellion, soon starts regaining his memories. As the reins of his past actions and decisions gradually grip him, Lelouch must stand against the Britannia again, confronting foes old and new.
Review
Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2 takes off with a hefty narrative burden, given the climactic showdown of the first season. However, fear not, fellow anime aficionados, as the series handles this with deft craftsmanship. Lelouch’s character is a meticulously crafted one, his strategic genius ever-so-prominent, and his emotional vulnerability serving as a contrasting character layer that gives him depth.
The show effortlessly catapults us into a world that carries the weight of political intrigue and moral complexity. Episodes maneuver between high-octane Knightmare Frame battles, to intellectually stimulating Stratagem, with an unexpected level of finesse. They examine the unsettling realities of war, the collateral damage, and the unnerving choices a leader must make.
We have a supporting cast that shines, each with their storied past and their convictions, driving the narrative forward with their individual arcs. There is a special shoutout to be given to Suzaku Kururugi – the Knight of Seven. His perception of justice and his consequent actions add another stark, contrasting character which makes the series more enticing.
Aesthetically, Code Geass R2 continues to deliver with its distinct character designs and fluid animation, paired with an impressive score that ebbs and flows perfectly with the narrative. This perfectly harmonized collaboration of visual appeal and astounding OST is what sets Code Geass apart. Do not, I repeat, do not even think of skipping the phenomenal opening sequences!
If you’re looking for a series with a perfectly woven narrative, deep characterizations, intellectual stimulation, and heart-pounding action, Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2 is definitely a worthy watch. Whether you choose to stream, rent, or buy…it is doubtless that you will be captivated by the world of Geass, leaving you with much to ponder upon and a great deal of satisfaction at having watched a beautifully crafted piece of anime art.
Final Verdict
I, The Anime Critic, heartily endorse Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2, and implore you to venture forth into the realm of Lelouch Lamperouge, a tale of rebellion, redemption and resolution that is sure to leave an indelible mark on your anime journey. Without a shadow of a doubt, this is a unanimous “buy” from me!
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Kaiba
MadhouseIn a world where memories exist in memory chips separate from the body, death of the body no longer means death of the soul. It is possible for memories to be viewed, altered, and transferred between bodies. These memory chips are used by the rich to obtain eternal lives in carefully selected bodies, while for the poor, selling their own bodies and conserving their souls in the chips often become the only way to earn a living. An electrolytic cloud in the sky serves as a barrier between the heavens of the fortunate and the underworld of the destitute, making this social division impregnable.
One day, a man named Kaiba wakes up in an empty room with no memories, a mysterious hole in his chest, and a locket holding the picture of an unknown woman. After escaping an attack and stumbling upon a decrepit village of underworld residents, he begins his adventure across the different planets of this strange universe to find out more about his own identity and the woman he once knew.
Through a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, Kaiba weaves together tales of souls and spirits and explores the importance of memories.
ANIME REVIEW: “KAIBA”
STORY SYNOPSIS
“Kaiba” is a profound journey into the realms of memory, love, and identity, artfully illustrated with a breathtaking visual style. In a future where the human soul can be digitized and transferred from one body to another, our amnesic protagonist, known simply as Kaiba, wakes up in a ruined room with no recollection of his past. All he has is a pendant with a picture of an unknown girl. In his chest, he discovers a large, gaping hole, but curiously, it neither kills him nor causes any discomfort. In search of his identity and the girl in the pendant, Kaiba sets off on a journey across different planets.
On this existential odyssey, Kaiba explores a multitude of worlds, each embodying a diverse range of memories, experiences, and souls. As he meets various individuals and becomes a part of their unique stories, he begins to unravel his own past and comprehend the deep-seated societal issues in this dystopian universe. The essence of ‘Kaiba’ lies in its deft analysis of memory, identity, and what it essentially means to be human.
REVIEW
Words would fail to capture the sheer brilliance of “Kaiba.” Studio Madhouse has time and again proven to be a stage for avant-garde anime ideas, but with “Kaiba,” the line between anime and fine art becomes almost imperceptible. Combining a profoundly thought-provoking storyline with a distinctively engaging art style, this anime redefines the limits of the medium.
Direccion from Masaaki Yuasa is absolutely masterful – he succeeds in weaving a narrative that unfolds like an intricate, surreal dream. While it may initially seem slow-paced, each episode offers a satisfying mini-plot that gradually uncovers the broader strokes of Kaiba’s epic journey. It’s like a jigsaw puzzle, putting together the pieces gradually creates a masterpiece, a composite of strange, beautiful, and sometimes heart-wrenching stories.
The animation style strikes a poignant balance between simple, childlike drawings and complex, almost ethereal scenery that’s rich in symbolism. Such a unique visual aesthetic serves as a stark contrast to the complex themes that “Kaiba” explores: the commodification of memory, the degradation of human essence into mere data, the socio-economic divide and its consequences, to name a few. This paradox between the art style and the deep-seated themes compels us to question our preconceived notions about the nature of human existence and identity.
In conclusion, “Kaiba” is not just an anime; it is an experience. The stunning visuals, evocative soundtrack, and the profound themes make it an immersive journey that leads to introspection, making us pause and ponder our place in the universe. Whether you’re a seasoned anime enthusiast or a newbie on the anime scene, this is one title that should definitely factor into your watch list.
To rent, buy, or stream? Without a doubt, “Kaiba” is an investment in your anime collection, a cinematic gem that stands up to repeated viewings. If poignant storytelling, unique visuals, and deep thematic exploration are your cup of tea, then “Kaiba” is definitely a buy.
FINAL VERDICT
“Kaiba” is a visual poem that delves deep into our human existence. It’s an anime that shapes and reshapes the way we perceive the nature of being. With its surreal aesthetics, musical marvels, and deep emotional resonance, “Kaiba” is undoubtedly a 5/5. In the world of anime, it is an invaluable treasure, a must-watch, a must-own masterpiece.
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Soul Eater
BonesDeath City is home to the famous Death Weapon Meister Academy, a technical academy headed by the Shinigami—Lord Death himself. Its mission: to raise "Death Scythes" for the Shinigami to wield against the many evils of their fantastical world. These Death Scythes, however, are not made from physical weapons; rather, they are born from human hybrids who have the ability to transform their bodies into Demon Weapons, and only after they have consumed the souls of 99 evil beings and one witch's soul.
Soul Eater Evans, a Demon Scythe who only seems to care about what's cool, aims to become a Death Scythe with the help of his straight-laced wielder, or meister, Maka Albarn. The contrasting duo work and study alongside the hot headed Black☆Star and his caring weapon Tsubaki, as well as the Shinigami's own son, Death the Kid, an obsessive-compulsive dual wielder of twin pistols Patty and Liz.
Soul Eater follows these students of Shibusen as they take on missions to collect souls and protect the city from the world's threats while working together under the snickering sun to become sounder in mind, body, and soul.
Synopsis
Set in the fictional Death City, Soul Eater unfolds an adventurous journey of three teams of Death Weapon Meister Academy students. The primary goal of these students is simple—collect and devour 99 evil souls and one soul of a witch to turn the weapon into a “Death Scythe,” considerably potent and suitable for the Grim Reaper himself. With this grand challenge, the young elites pave the way while combating with their personal anxieties and fears alongside the everlasting quest against evil.
Each team encapsulates an exciting dichotomy of personalities. Soul Eater Evans and his Meister, Maka Albarn, form one team, drawing an engaging narrative with their conflicting yet complementary personalities. Black Star and his weapon, Tsubaki, form another team, revealing a tale of indomitable will and control. Meanwhile, Death the Kid, son of Death himself, and his twin weapons, Liz and Patty, complete the circle of chaos, order, and the incessant struggle between them.
Review – Enthralling Narrative and Engaging Characters
Soul Eater has been revered for its thrills and chills within its narrative. The unorthodox quest our protagonists set forth is a blend of action, horror, comedy, and intrigue, leaving the viewers at the edge of their seats. While the story begins in a light-hearted, almost comedic vein, it takes darker and poignant turns as it delves deeper into the characters’ psyche.
The writing ensures that no character falls flat—they’re all complex, deep, and likable in their way. In addition to our core trio, the outer ring of characters adds flavor to the already delightful cocktail. The show brilliantly balances a massive ensemble of characters while ensuring each character gets the development they deserve.
Art, Animation and Music
Animation and design comprise much of Soul Eater’s appeal. The show’s art style is a distinctive blend of gothic and punk aesthetics, providing a visually cryptic yet attractive experience. Hiroyuki Imaishi’s animating prowess shines through the anime, delivering fluid action sequences that keep the viewers captivated.
The sound design is a gem in itself. Soul Eater’s soundtrack is an appealing amalgamation of hard rock, jazz, and orchestral scores. The music complements the show’s tone and atmosphere, enhancing the storyline and pivotal moments with its clever utilization.
Final Thoughts
Soul Eater is a vivid phenomenon in the landscape of anime with its unique art style, riveting storyline, and well-developed characters. Its blend of action, humor, and dramatic moments cater to a wide array of audiences. The narrative remains refreshing with underlying themes of loyalty, camaraderie, self-discovery, and the classic good versus evil.
Whether you decide to rent, buy, or stream, Soul Eater is a worthy addition to your anime collection. It’s an enchanting ride that gives you chills, laughter, and moments of respite with its fantastic story arcs. Therefore, for any anime lover out there, it’s a must-watch–you’d appreciate its creative storytelling and captivating animation.
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xxxHOLiC◆Kei
Production I.GKimihiro Watanuki's life was never really normal. But in addition to his ability to see spirits, this sequel to xxxHOLiC finds him still slaving away for Yuuko, the bizarre owner of a strange shop, who promised to rid him of this ability. However, this otherworldly woman can only do so when he has worked enough to earn his wish. Such is the way for anyone who finds their way into the shop to have their request granted: a compensation equal to their wish must be paid.
In this odd shop that straddles the world of the living and the dead, Watanuki finds himself doing household chores for the seemingly lazy Yuuko and her companions, while also helping out clients. Along with his classmates, supposed romantic rival Shizuka Doumeki and his crush Himawari Kunogi, Watanuki deals with the many misfortunes surrounding Yuuko's customers, as well as those that closely follow him and his friends.
Anime Review: xxxHOLiC◆Kei
Prepare to plunge into a whimsical universe wrapped with mystery, supernatural themes, and life lessons that stimulate your philosophical side. xxxHOLiC◆Kei proves to be an intriguing blend of the ordinary and the occult, boring into your brain with its infectious charm and immersive narrative. The storyline is centered around a high school student named Watanuki Kimihiro who is uniquely afflicted with the ability to see and attract spirits. His life takes a bizarre twist when he stumbles upon the mystical store of Yuuko Ichihara, a witch who offers to rid him of his troublesome ability — but for a price.
Watanuki’s quest for a normal life results in a flurry of intoxicating experiences with the bizarre. Yuuko’s store, it turns out, caters to clients with metaphysical problems, and Watanuki becomes her unwilling handyman. As he struggles to fulfill these eccentric requests, Watanuki encounters a variety of supernatural phenomena, and his experiences are both enlightening and chastening. All the while, his personal growth and evolution, humorously juxtaposed with the eccentric Yuuko’s escapist streak, become the cornerstone of the anime. xxxHOLiC◆Kei deftly weaves these elements into an absorbing narrative enriched with an aesthetic that’s delightfully quirky.
Storyline and Plot
The captivating story of xxxHOLiC◆Kei is known for its wealth of nuances. As we journey with our protagonist, we delve into deeply profound themes. Each individual episode carries a unique plot, yet is entwined with an overarching story. Yes, you’ll encounter the staple “this happened today” episodic narrative, but the charisma lies in the overarching consistency. The merit of xxxHOLiC◆Kei’s storytelling lies in its ability to transform the episodic pattern into an integrated narrative framework.
Characters
Oh, the characters! xxxHOLiC◆Kei presents a fascinating ensemble of co-stars aside from the delightful Watanuki. There’s the extravagant yet mysterious Yuuko, and Watanuki’s school friends—Himawari and Doumeki, who each carry their unique charm. Watanuki’s encounters with spirits and the like offer a plethora of unforgettable side characters that brighten the narrative with their every appearance.
Art and Sound
The artwork is simply spectacular. The unique style encapsulates a sense of the mystical effortlessly and subtly enhances the anime’s intense atmosphere. xxxHOLiC◆Kei boasts its own style, which breathes life into the world it fabricates. And let’s not forget the sound. The background scores do justice to the ethereal theme, successfully fostering a sense of eeriness, whimsy, or anticipation, depending on the plot requirement.
Verdict
If you’re looking for an anime that transcends the boundaries of the traditional, xxxHOLiC◆Kei is a top pick. From intriguing plotlines, multifaceted characters, noteworthy art style, and haunting sound design, the series checks all the boxes and then some. Different from your regular, action-packed anime, xxxHOLiC◆Kei beckons you into a world enigmatic yet filled with valuable lessons. Whether you choose to rent, buy, or stream, get ready to be thoroughly engrossed!
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