Spring 2009
Cross Game
SynergySPKou Kitamura and Aoba Tsukishima are often at odds—even though their families happen to be close friends and business partners. Although the only child of a sports shop owner, Kou has never been interested in playing baseball. Despite this, he possesses an impressive batting ability honed by frequent visits to the local baseball batting center run by the Tsukushima family. On the other hand, Aoba loves to play baseball and is a star player with exceptional pitching form.
However, these two seemingly complete opposites share something very important to them—Wakaba Tsukishima, Aoba's older sister and Kou's destined sweetheart. Admired by the quarrelsome duo, Wakaba often finds herself the catalyst to their never-ending rivalry. But whether or not they realize that they have more in common than either would care to admit, only time will tell. The game of baseball may just be what the pair needs to ultimately overcome their own personal struggles.
Cross Game – Freshly Squeezed Slice of Life Baseball Drama Reviewed!
Story and Character Development – No Strikeout here!
Animation and Sound – A Touchdown!
Final Thoughts – Pitch Perfect!
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Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
BonesAfter a horrific alchemy experiment goes wrong in the Elric household, brothers Edward and Alphonse are left in a catastrophic new reality. Ignoring the alchemical principle banning human transmutation, the boys attempted to bring their recently deceased mother back to life. Instead, they suffered brutal personal loss: Alphonse’s body disintegrated while Edward lost a leg and then sacrificed an arm to keep Alphonse’s soul in the physical realm by binding it to a hulking suit of armor.
The brothers are rescued by their neighbor Pinako Rockbell and her granddaughter Winry. Known as a bio-mechanical engineering prodigy, Winry creates prosthetic limbs for Edward by utilizing “automail,” a tough, versatile metal used in robots and combat armor. After years of training, the Elric brothers set off on a quest to restore their bodies by locating the Philosopher’s Stone—a powerful gem that allows an alchemist to defy the traditional laws of Equivalent Exchange.
As Edward becomes an infamous alchemist and gains the nickname “Fullmetal,” the boys’ journey embroils them in a growing conspiracy that threatens the fate of the world.
The Anime Critic Reviews: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood!
Hey there, anime enthusiasts! It’s your trusted reviewer, The Anime Critic, back with another thrilling review! This time, we’re diving deep into the world of alchemy with Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Buckle up, because this is one roller-coaster ride you DON’T want to miss!
Setting the Stage
Imagine a world where the impossible becomes possible, where the very fabric of existence is manipulated by those with the knowledge and skill. That’s the intoxicating realm of alchemy – and at the heart of this universe are the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse. Their quest? To restore their bodies after a forbidden alchemy experiment goes terribly wrong. But remember, equivalent exchange is the law of this land. To gain something, something of equal value must be lost.
Why You Should Watch It?
1. Epic Storytelling:
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood isn’t just about flashy alchemical battles (though trust me, there’s plenty of that!). At its core, it’s a tale of brotherhood, sacrifice, and redemption. The narrative is both heart-wrenching and exhilarating, making you laugh, cry, and sit at the edge of your seat – often all at once!
2. Unforgettable Characters:
The cast is diverse, deep, and each has their own rich backstory. From the determined Elric brothers to the conniving homunculi, every character plays a crucial role in the overarching narrative. And let me tell you, the character development here is chef’s kiss!
3. Mesmerizing World:
The world-building is vast and intricate. From the bustling streets of Central to the far reaches of Xing, the universe of FMA: Brotherhood is a character in itself, filled with its own lore, politics, and mysteries.
4. Stunning Animation:
The animation quality is top-notch. Fight sequences are fluid, detailed, and visually spectacular. Each episode feels like a treat for the eyes!
Critic’s Thoughts
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is one of those rare anime that transcends its medium. It appeals not just to anime lovers but to anyone who appreciates good storytelling. The themes are universal – love, loss, determination, and the lengths one would go to correct past mistakes.
And for those wondering about its place in the FMA universe – Brotherhood is a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s manga, while the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist anime diverts from the original story midway.
Rent, Buy, or Stream?
Verdict: STREAM AND BUY!
If you’re new to FMA, start by streaming it. You’ll quickly find yourself hooked. And for hardcore fans or those who appreciate the artistry of this masterpiece? Buying is a must! It’s the kind of anime you’ll want in your collection to revisit time and again.
Final Words
In the vast universe of anime, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood shines bright as a stellar masterpiece. If you haven’t watched it yet, you’re missing out on an epic adventure. And if you have? Well, maybe it’s time for a rewatch!
Until next time, keep those alchemy circles ready, and may your journey be filled with wonder!
Stay animated,
The Anime Critic
I hope this review ignites the passion of alchemy in your heart! Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation animated! Don’t forget to share the review with fellow anime buffs!
Disclaimer: This review is spoiler-free and based on personal opinions. Your experience may vary. Always remember, the joy of anime is in the journey, not just the destination!
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Bones[Upbeat intro music playing]
Host: Hey there, anime enthusiasts! Welcome back to my channel, where we dive deep into the world of Japanese animation and manga. Today, we have a highly-anticipated review for you all — the one, the only, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood! So, grab some popcorn, get comfy, and let’s dive right into the magical universe of alchemy!
[Cut to an eye-catching thumbnail of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood]
Host: Now, before we begin, let me just say that this iconic anime is an absolute must-watch for any true fan of the genre. Based on the legendary manga created by Hiromu Arakawa, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood takes us on a heart-wrenching journey through a world where alchemy reigns supreme.
[Cut to a montage of captivating action scenes and emotional moments]
Host: Alright, let me set the stage for you. In a land called Amestris, young brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric possess a talent for alchemy that surpasses most. After a horrific tragedy strikes, the brothers embark on a quest to uncover the Philosopher’s Stone, a legendary artifact that could restore their bodies and rewrite the laws of alchemy itself.
[Cut to a series of stunning visuals highlighting the anime’s world-building]
Host: One of the first things that struck me about Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is its impeccable world-building. The attention to detail put into crafting Amestris is simply mind-blowing. From the bustling cities to the eerie ghost towns, each location feels rich, alive, and unique. But it doesn’t stop there! The characters’ interactions with the world and their surroundings feel authentic and immersive.
[Cut to a shot of the complex, layered protagonists]
Host: Speaking of characters, let’s talk about the Elric brothers for a minute. Edward and Alphonse are undoubtedly one of the most captivating duos in anime history. Despite their tender age, these boys face tough moral dilemmas, grapple with their own personal demons, and suffer devastating losses. Their growth throughout the series is awe-inspiring, as they evolve from idealistic and naive youngsters into hardened and wise individuals.
[Cut to a compilation of intense battles and mind-bending alchemical displays]
Host: Trust me, folks, this show isn’t all about deep philosophical questions. It packs a serious punch in the action department too. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood delivers some of the most exhilarating and seamlessly choreographed fight scenes you’ll ever witness. The clash of alchemy, mixed with clever tactics and strategic thinking, keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the series.
[Cut to a side-by-side comparison of Fullmetal Alchemist’s 2003 adaptation and Brotherhood]
Host: Now, let’s address the elephant in the room — there was an earlier adaptation of this iconic series, released in 2003. And while the first adaptation had its merits, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is where the story truly shines. It stays faithfully true to the manga and dives even deeper into the overarching narrative. So, if you’ve seen the 2003 version, don’t worry, there’s still plenty of fresh content and mind-blowing twists to enjoy in Brotherhood.
[Cut to a shot of the emotionally charged finale]
Host: Alright, before I conclude, let me take a moment to appreciate the exceptional storytelling in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. The series masters the art of balancing complex themes with light-hearted humor, intense action scenes, and heart-wrenching drama. It’s rare to find an anime that can make you laugh, cry, and question the very meaning of life within a single episode.
[Closing shot of the Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood logo]
Host: So, in conclusion, my fellow anime enthusiasts, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is an absolute gem in the world of Japanese animation. From its captivating world-building to its complex characters, this show has it all — action, humor, drama, and a story that will stick with you long after the final credits roll. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or new to the genre, I wholeheartedly recommend grabbing a box set or queuing it up on your favorite streaming platform. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
[Upbeat outro music playing]
Host: And that’s a wrap for today’s review! Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more anime and manga content. Until next time, happy watching!
[End screen with links to subscribe and previous reviews]
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Hanasakeru Seishounen
PierrotKajika Louisa Kugami Burnsworth is the only daughter of Harry Burnsworth, an influential and respected industrialist who has the power to move the world. There was a threat on Kajika’s life when she was just two years old, and her mother died protecting her. After this tragic incident, Harry sent his only child to an isolated island, Giviolle, where she was raised by the island’s native, Maria. Kajika’s companions during her time there include a white leopard named Mustafa and a boy named Li Ren Fang, who visited her two or three times a year.
Kajika, now fourteen, returns to her father's side, only to be told to begin a game to find her future husband. Harry makes sure that Kajika willingly participates in this game by telling her that she needs to face the harshness of her fate along with the man she chooses to be her husband. She needs to decide among the three candidates that Harry has personally chosen, but it won’t be easy. Kajika must figure out who they are and where they are without any information to go on except that they all possess an irresistible brilliance and charm. All the while, the men aren't even aware that they are the chosen ones. Kajika must also choose wisely, as her partner has to willingly accept her to be his bride.
Hansakeru Seishounen revolves around endearing love, intense passion, noble friendship, undying loyalty, family relations, and political intrigue. The heaviness of Kajika’s fate is real, the threat on Kajika’s life is inevitable, and the husband game is more than just a mere game. Harry needs to find a suitable partner to protect his daughter before someone discovers Kajika’s deep secret—a secret even she is unaware of.
HANASAKERU SEISHOUNEN: A BRILLIANT BLEND OF INTRIGUE, ROMANCE AND ADVENTURE
STORY SYNOPSIS
The premise of “Hanasakeru Seishounen” revolves around the protagonist, Kajika Louisa Kugami Burnsworth, an exuberant and passionate young lady who hails from a distinguished and affluent background. On her 14th birthday, she ventures into an intriguing endeavor initiated by her father ‒ a bizarre ‘marriage game’ wherein she must choose a life partner from amongst three candidates whom she is yet to meet. This journey counters her with fascinating individuals, political conspiracies, and a head-spinning whirl of emotion and love.
Each contender in this peculiar ‘game’ comes with his own set of layered life stories, motives, and captivating personalities. Stumbling upon these exquisite men, Kajika steadily unravels their stories while illuminating her own path to true love. With an impressive melange of politics, adventure, and romance, “Hanasakeru Seishounen” throttles viewers in an unprecedented narrative of self-discovery, love, and coming of age.
ANIME REVIEW
“Hanasakeru Seishounen” is an enchanting tapestry of compelling characters, absorbing narratives, and arresting visual appeal. It’s a striking series that ably portrays the complexities of politics and love, amalgamated with a unique incandescent charm that is impossible to miss.
In terms of storytelling, “Hanasakeru Seishounen” triumphs with its flawless tactility. What began as a quirkily charming ‘marriage game’ soon evolves into a potent political plot that laced with edgy suspense. The romantic elements are astoundingly sophisticated, highlighting the depths of human experiences rather than fleeting infatuations. The pinnacle of it, however, is how brilliantly the series maintains a balance among its different elements, ensuring the viewer’s interest is sustained throughout.
The character development in this anime is exceptionable. Kajika is unlike the stereotypical damsel. She is vibrant, courageous, and possesses an unfaltering sense of justice. How she navigates through the labyrinth of politics and heart flutters forms the crux of her character. Similarly, each male contender exhibits a unique charm, and their interaction with Kajika adds depth to their personas.
The artwork and animation are spot-on. The character designs are distinct and pleasing to the eye, while the exotic locations amplify the viewing experience with their brilliant environment details. The background score and voice acting are top-notch with adequate emotion and subtlety, which amplifies the entire experience.
All said, “Hanasakeru Seishounen” is an engaging concoction of romance, politics, and adventure, masterfully delivered with an exceptional narrative and character development. There’s a hearty dose of feels, humor, and suspense that will keep you riveted. If you’re on the hunt for an anime that offers more than your traditional high school romance, with a unique twist of politics and adventure, definitely consider picking up “Hanasakeru Seishounen.”
My advice? Go ahead and BUY “Hanasakeru Seishounen”. It’s a captivating journey that you wouldn’t mind traversing again and again. Buckle up for an enchanting ride that will surely tug at your heartstrings and keep you on the edge of your seat.
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Higashi no Eden
Production I.GOn November 22, 2010, Japan was hit by missile strikes, a terrorist act that fortunately did not harm anyone, becoming known as "Careless Monday." Quickly forgotten, society goes on about their lives as normal.
During her graduation trip to America three months later, friendly college student Saki Morimi's life is forever changed when she finds herself saved from unexpected trouble by Akira Takizawa. Takizawa is cheerful, but odd in many ways—he is stark naked and suffers from amnesia, believing himself to be a terrorist. In addition, he possesses a strange cell phone loaded with 8.2 billion yen in digital cash.
Despite Takizawa's suspicious traits, Saki quickly befriends the enigmatic young man. However, unbeknownst to her, this is the beginning of a thrilling death game involving money, cell phones, and the salvation of the world. Higashi no Eden chronicles Saki's struggle to unravel the mysteries behind her savior, while Takizawa himself battles other individuals armed with similar cell phones and returning memories which reveal his possible connection to the event from months ago.
Anime Review: Higashi no Eden (Eden of the East)
Synopsis of the Story
Ten missiles strike unoccupied areas of Japan, sparing thousands of lives and earning the mysterious phenomenon the name of “Careless Monday.” Fast-forward to our protagonist of the story- Saki Morimi, a young woman who goes on vacation in America after her graduation. In Washington D.C, she gets in trouble with the police but is saved by a naked Japanese man suffering from amnesia.
The man, Akira Takizawa, discovers that he has a phone with 8.2 billion yen in digital cash, a female entity named Juiz who can fulfill his every wish, and that he was apparently part of a game whose goal is to save Japan. The number of lives and how he performs his duties will determine whether Akira will become the ‘messiah.’ Amidst all this, he also has to deal with 11 other individuals who share similar resources and goals.
Review
Eden of the East is an exhilarating fusion of suspense, humor, and romance, with a sprinkle of social commentary that will grip you right from the start!
Firstly, the animation by Production I.G is undoubtedly top-notch. They’ve beautifully depicted America as well as urban Japanese areas, giving the anime an aesthetic edge. The character designs are distinct and detailed, keeping you invested in their individual arcs. You can’t help but be sucked into this brilliantly animated world, filled with enigmas and charm!
The sound and music are fantastic. The soundtrack manages to keep you on the edge of your seat in suspenseful moments, whilst perfectly capturing the essence of more emotional scenes. A particular track of note, which will stick with you long after you’ve finished watching, would undoubtedly be “Falling Down” by Oasis – an absolute treat for your ears!
However, what really sets Eden of the East apart is its complex, twist-filled plot. It’s not just a story about saving Japan, it’s also a coming-of-age tale that explores societal issues and what it means to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. The details of the memory game and the intricate play among the 12 “saviors” will leave you hungry for the next episode.
The characters round off this package brilliantly. Akira Takizawa is a charismatic and compelling lead, who carries a mysterious aura but also has relatable moments of vulnerability. On the other hand, Saki Morimi plays a well-portrayed example of an everyday woman caught in extraordinary circumstances. Their dynamic and development throughout the series is definitely something to look out for.
One major standout of this series is its brilliant handling of suspense. Eden of the East knows when to show its cards and when to hold them. It never feels rushed or slow, and paces out its revelations meticulously. The brilliant execution of this suspense really sets this anime apart from the flock.
In the end, Higashi no Eden (Eden of the East) is a smart and compelling thriller that mixes different genres to create an anime experience like no other. Whether you decide to rent, buy, or stream this anime, you’re in for a thrilling ride! And I can assure you, you’re going to love every second of it!
Score: 9/10
I wholeheartedly recommend this anime as a must-watch for anyone interested in quality storytelling with some substantial intellectual weight. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable, unique anime and, trust me, you don’t want to miss out on it!
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K-On!
Kyoto AnimationA fresh high school year always means much to come, and one of those things is joining a club. Being in a dilemma about which club to join, Yui Hirasawa stumbles upon and applies for the Light Music Club, which she misinterprets to be about playing simple instruments, such as castanets. Unable to play an instrument, she decides to visit to apologize and quit.
Meanwhile, the Light Music Club faces disbandment due to a lack of members. This causes the club members to offer anything, from food to slacking off during club time, in order to convince Yui to join. Despite their efforts, Yui insists on leaving due to her lack of musical experience. As a last resort, they play a piece for Yui, which sparks her fiery passion and finally convinces her to join the club.
From then onward, it is just plain messing around with bits and pieces of practice. The members of the Light Music Club are ready to make their time together a delightful one!
Anime Review: K-On! by The Anime Critic
K-On!, created by the talented hands of the folks over at Kyoto Animation, is a 2009-2010 anime that has quickly ascended the ranks of must-watch anime series for any fan of the genre. This review will delve into the heated riff sessions, warming friendships, and soothing melodies that make K-On! an unmissable tour-de-force in the world of anime. Before we plunge into the review though, let’s throw some light on the storyline.
The narrative of K-On! orbits around a high school music club, or to be precise—a light music club, reinstated by Ritsu Tainaka. Striving to pursue her passion for music and driven by the enthusiastic spark of extending beyond mundane high school life, Ritsu, along with Mio Akiyama, Tsumugi Kotobuki, and Yui Hirasawa take the stage as the school’s new light music band members. Once bassist Mio, keyboardist Tsumugi, drummer Ritsu, and —after some persuasion and training— guitarist Yui, get together, it becomes clear that the music they make resonates beyond just melodic notes. It’s an anthem that underlines their friendship and the trials, triumphs, and laughter it weaves through their high school journey.
Review: K-On!
K-On! without a shred of doubt, stands as an incredibly charming series. The storyline is masterfully paced and brings forth a captivating mix of music and moe, engrossing enough to keep you hooked till the end of every episode. But, while the music is an essential gear in driving the narrative, the anime sneaks in the spirit of friendship into the core of its narrative. This tapestry of camaraderie is what keeps the series grounded, infusing it with a relatability factor that transcends the charm of the music itself.
The animation is a treat to watch—hues of candid brightness and delightful detailing, and most importantly, the character design syncs perfectly with the respective personalities of the characters. The expression of their music, which doubles as the expression of their friendships, is beautifully represented in the animation. Not to mention, K-On!’s soundtrack is nothing less than a testament to its musical theme—each Track resonates with vibrancy and emotion that not only amplifies the story but also stimulates your auditory experience.
Of course, every chord has it’s dischord and K-On! has its share of it. Some may find the fluffy, seemingly “no stakes” storyline a little too light. If you’re looking for a drama-intensive or action-packed anime, then K-On! might be on a different rhythm track for you.
But overall, K-On! strikes the soothing note of a slice-of-life anime peppered with a tinge of music and friendship. It’s a series filled with laughter, goofy moments, heartwarming friendship, and great music that would make you want to bob your heads along. In terms of recommending it, set your heart to buy or stream K-On! if you’re seeking a cozy atmosphere and a lovable cast medley that is sure to give you a relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable time.
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Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom
Bee TrainMafia is rife in America where assassinations are a regular occurrence on the streets. Inferno, a mysterious company, is behind most of these dealings through the use of their near-invincible human weapon, "Phantom."
One day, a Japanese tourist accidentally witnesses Phantom's latest murder. Desperate to escape, the tourist hides in a secluded building. However, Phantom, revealed to be a young woman named Ein, and the leader of Inferno "Scythe Master" captures the tourist and brainwashes him.
Given the name "Zwei," this once peaceful tourist is now a puppet of Inferno with no memories. Drawn into a world of lies, deceit, and violence, Zwei must fight to survive, hopefully to one day regain his memories and escape from this world where he is constantly on the brink of death.
Anime Review: Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom
Hey Anime fans! Gather round as we delve into the deep, dark, and gripping world of ‘Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom.’ First, allow me to narrate this beautifully woven storyline without giving away any spoilers.
Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom tells a spine-chilling tale of a young man who wakes to find himself in a strange, desolate building with no memories of his past. He is suddenly attacked by an armed woman, but through instinct more than knowledge, he manages to protect himself. It is revealed that he has been brainwashed into becoming an assassin for an organization known as Inferno. Now known as Zwei, he carries out deadly missions while continuously questioning the nature of his existence.
His unforgettable journey is set beside that of Ein, another assassin manufactured by the same organization. Together, they dance a tango of life and death, questioning their identities, loyalties, and ultimately, their humanity.
Review
Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom is an anime that defies expectations at every turn. This narrative makes you question every preconceived notion you have about the classic assassin genre, turning each trope on its head to present a truly unique and captivating experience.
People often say, “Actions speak louder than words,” and when it comes to the animation quality, Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom does not disappoint. The fluid, crisp animation weaved with immaculate character design makes each scene come alive. Scenes of intense combat are so brilliantly executed that you are able to sense the danger and feel the desperation of the characters.
And speaking of characters, Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom boasts a cast that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. Zwei’s evolution from a lost, memory stripped man to a deadly, unavoidable Phantom is incredibly portrayed. Meanwhile, Ein’s journey of self-discovery is both heartrending and inspiring. The characters’ internal struggles and their battle against the inhumane circumstances are a testament to the depth of character development and storytelling.
Sound and Voice Acting
In terms of sound and voice acting, Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom again outshines many of its contemporaries. The eerie, soul-stirring background music sets the perfect tone for this dark tale. Moreover, the voice acting is simply exemplary; the Japanese voice actors, Miyu Irino and Ayahi Takagaki breathe life into Zwei and Ein, infusing them with an emotional depth that resonates with the viewer.
Final Thoughts
Overall, if you’re a fan of intense, gripping, and thought-provoking storytelling packed into a sleek, visually stunning anime, then Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom is a must-watch! The anime keeps you engaged with its twists and turns, while constantly challenging you with its deep, philosophical undertones. So, whether you plan to stream, rent, or buy this anime, rest assured, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
Score: 9 out of 10
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