Spring 2012
Fate/Zero 2nd Season
ufotableAs the Fourth Holy Grail War rages on with no clear victor in sight, the remaining Servants and their Masters are called upon by Church supervisor Risei Kotomine, in order to band together and confront an impending threat that could unravel the Grail War and bring about the destruction of Fuyuki City. The uneasy truce soon collapses as Masters demonstrate that they will do anything in their power, no matter how despicable, to win.
Seeds of doubt are sown between Kiritsugu Emiya and Saber, his Servant, as their conflicting ideologies on heroism and chivalry clash. Meanwhile, an ominous bond forms between Kirei Kotomine, who still seeks to find his purpose in life, and one of the remaining Servants. As the countdown to the end of the war reaches zero, the cost of winning begins to blur the line between victory and defeat.
Fate/Zero 2nd Season: A Gripping Expedition into The Grail War
In the heartbeat of the second installment of the dark and mystifying world of Fate/Zero, old alliances falter, and new ones are tested. The heroes of old, reborn under the command of modern mages, fight for a chance at one single, omnipotent wish. As the War of the Holy Grail escalates, Fate/Zero Season 2 reveals the price of victory and the devastating cost of defeat.
Within its narrative, the anime navigates a complex web of motivations from each of the seven Mages and their Heroic Spirits, threading an intoxicating story of power, loss and, ultimately, redemption. The philosophical ponderings, the moral groundings, and clashing valor each create a rich, haunting backdrop, painting a tragic and battle-ridden landscape.
Storyline and Character Development
The second season dives headfirst into the second half of the Holy Grail War, setting a tumultuous rhythm right from the get-go. Even as it lavishes on this chaotic war, the narrative doesn’t lose sight of its characters. Each character is assigned their arcs which are carefully designed to evoke strong emotions, treating you to a profound exploration of their psyches.
Animation and Soundtrack
Just as persuasive as the storyline is the brilliant production quality by Ufotable. The stunning animation coupled with a dazzling roster of breathtaking fight sequences provides a visual feast to the viewers, elevating the overall experience. The soundtrack, an ostentatious blend of operatics and rock, complements the high-octane moments, invoking awe and a palpable sense of dread.
Metaphysics and Philosophy
Fate/Zero strays from the classic anime trope, delving into deeper metaphysical questions that create a robust foundation for the series. The clash of ideologies between characters and the psychological deliberations add depth, rendering the anime thought-provoking. Rare are the animes that erect their foundations upon such grand philosophical contemplations, and succeed. Fate/Zero is indubitably a prime example.
Final Verdict
Fate/Zero 2nd season is a masterpiece interweaving a captivating narrative, impressive animation, and compelling characters. It intelligently meshes the old world ethos with a modern narrative, making it a prime recommendation for newcomers as well as veteran anime fans. If you are a fan of dramatic storylines, psychological undertones, and high-octane action, Fate/Zero is a must-rent. If you are a die-hard anime fan who loves thought-provoking series, it’s certainly a worthy addition to buy and add to your collection. As for streaming, it’s an obvious choice.
When the Holy Grail demands sacrifice, who among the Mages and their Heroic Spirits will emerge victorious? Don’t keep the Grail waiting. Jump in to unravel the mystery yourself!
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Hyouka
Kyoto AnimationHigh school freshman Houtarou Oreki has but one goal: to lead a gray life while conserving as much energy as he can. Unfortunately, his peaceful days come to an end when his older sister, Tomoe, forces him to save the memberless Classics Club from disbandment.
Luckily, Oreki's predicament seems to be over when he heads to the clubroom and discovers that his fellow first-year, Eru Chitanda, has already become a member. However, despite his obligation being fulfilled, Oreki finds himself entangled by Chitanda's curious and bubbly personality, soon joining the club of his own volition.
Hyouka follows the four members of the Classics Club—including Oreki's friends Satoshi Fukube and Mayaka Ibara—as they, driven by Chitanda's insatiable curiosity, solve the trivial yet intriguing mysteries that permeate their daily lives.
Synopsis of Hyouka
“Every day is mundane with no scope of excitement” – an apt description of Oreki Houtarou, the protagonist of the beloved anime series, Hyouka. Oreki, a high-schooler, has one primary philosophy: to conserve energy by not getting involved in too many activities. However, that’s before he joins the Classic Literature Club under the coercion of his elder sister.
This move sees him cross paths with an eccentric, curious girl named Chitanda. She ropes Oreki, along with his schoolmates – Satoshi and Mayaka – into various investigations related to the club’s history and the anthology titled “Hyouka”. The anime takes the viewer on a thrilling journey as the highschool students unravel a multitude of school mysteries using the power of deduction, providing an exciting blend of slice-of-life drama and mystery.
Review of Hyouka
Straight off the bat, let me tell you – Hyouka revolutionizes the slice-of-life genre by combining it with mystery and detective fiction, and it does so elegantly. KyoAni, the creators, have truly outdone themselves with this one.
Although Hyouka might come across as slowly paced initially, stick around and you’ll soon realize it’s a slow-burner. The anime invests time in building characters, their relationships, and the narrative arc, resulting in an immersive, detailed storyline that has viewers enrolled from the moment they start watching. The reward is a deeply engaging, emotional fruition!
The main characters are meticulously developed with relatable traits, believable flaws, and personal arcs. The growing companionship between Oreki, Chitanda, Satoshi, and Mayaka is heartwarming, to say the least.
As for the visuals – where do I even begin? The animation is outstanding with its vivid palettes, detailed sceneries, and character design. The frequent illustrative metaphors are impressive, adding depth to the narrative while making the experience visually captivating.
On the sound department, Hyouka hits the mark yet again. The voices suit the characters perfectly, and the OST supports the series’ atmosphere in the best way possible. Special mentions to the opening and closing themes, they’re catchy, melodic and encapsulate the series’ tone faultlessly.
But what truly sets Hyouka apart is its unique and intelligent storytelling style. The mysteries at the heart of the narrative aren’t your regular whodunit crimes. Instead, they are subtle, everyday life enigmas that require the power of deduction. Combined with the intriguing uncovering process, it leaves you constantly guessing.
Verdict
If you’re in the mood for a visually stunning, thought-provoking, and character-driven story that skillfully fuses mystery with slice-of-life, then Hyouka is a must-watch! Whether you decide to rent, buy, or stream this anime, you’re in for a treat. It’s an investment of time that will leave you not just impressed but emotionally attached to the characters and the series. Besides, who doesn’t love a high-school mystery?
In the end, Hyouka might just redefine your understanding of anime, making it a valuable addition to any otaku’s collection. There’s no denying, the enchanting world of Hyouka is waiting to captivate you!
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Jormungand
White FoxBrought up in a conflict-ridden environment, child soldier Jonathan "Jonah" Mar hates weapons and those who deal them. But when Koko Hekmatyar, an international arms dealer, takes on Jonah as one of her bodyguards, he has little choice but to take up arms. Along with Koko's other bodyguards, composed mostly of former special-ops soldiers, Jonah is now tasked with protecting Koko and her overly idealistic goal of world peace from the countless dangers that come from her line of work.
Jormungand follows Koko, Jonah, and the rest of crew as they travel the world selling weapons under the international shipping company HCLI. As Koko's work is illegal under international law, she is forced to constantly sidestep both local and international authorities while doing business with armies, private militaries, and militias. With the CIA always hot on her trail, and assassins around every corner, Jonah and the crew must guard Koko and her dream of world peace with their lives or die trying.
Exploring Conflicting WorldViews with Jormungand: The Anime Critic Review
Prepare to plunge headlong into the dynamic world of global arms dealing in the gritty, thrilling anime, Jormungand. A narrative fueled by riveting action sequences and thought-provoking themes, Jormungand zeroes in on Koko Hekmatyar, a young arms dealer operating under the shadowy HCLI corporation. Fiercely intelligent yet alarmingly naive in some respects, Koko navigates dangerous geopolitical landscapes with an aura of alarming gaiety and panache. Her sole protection against the numerous threats – government agencies, rival arms dealers, and even terrorists-, is a mishmash team of ex-military and mercenaries with their own haunting pasts.
Drawing its title from the mythical Norse World Serpent, Jormungand focuses heavily on cyclical narratives of violence, fury, and vendetta, questioning the morality of war and the double-edged nature of armament proliferation. With the addition of child soldier Jonah to their ranks, Koko’s team rides the treacherous wave of international arms dealing, always one step, or perhaps one bullet away from catastrophe. Jonah, who detests arms dealers for the travesties they wrought on his homeland, grapples with the paradox of serving one, making for a compelling narrative from start to finish.
Journey through Jormungand: A Detailed Review
Jormungand is an anime that thrives on contradiction and the grey areas of morality. Whether it’s our arms dealer protagonist who despises war yet profits from its horrors, or a young boy soldier who decries weapon proliferation while casually wielding a gun, Jormungand never fails to pose difficult questions.
From the get-go, Jormungand ups the ante on action – Car chases, gunfire exchange, and thrilling combat presentation flows through the veins of this adrenaline-pumping series. Yet, in the very midst of these frenzied action sequences, this series showcases some of its finest character development arcs, accentuating the dangerous lives of Koko’s team while humanizing them as well.
The Heart of The Show: Characters and Their Depiction
One of Jormungand‘s greatest strengths lies in its brilliant character development. Koko, with her volatile child-like innocence juxtaposed with a chilling ruthlessness, leaves a powerful impression. Jonah, with his struggle to reconcile with the inherent hypocrisy of his situation, adds intense depth and nuance to the narrative. The rest of the cast, too, have their moments of raw emotional exposure, allowing an intimate peek into their intricately woven backstories.
Wrap Up: Should You Stream, Rent, Or Buy?
With its compelling narrative, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, Jormungand is an anime that leaves a significant impact. Its relentless exploration of morally ambiguous territories and the extraordinary attention to detail makes it absolutely worth a watch. Whether to stream, rent, or buy banks heavily on your preferences. As a standalone series, it’s immersive and thrilling enough for a marathoning session, so streaming could be an excellent choice. But for discerning anime aficionados who relish revisiting and uncovering new layers in multiple viewings, a rental or purchase might be more suitable.
All in all, delve into Jormungand for an unsettling yet edifying look into the contradicting philosophies of war and peace. By no means is it an easy watch, but it sure is an unforgettable one!
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Kuroko no Basket
Production I.GFor the last three years, Teikou Middle School has dominated the national basketball scene with its legendary lineup: the "Generation of Miracles." It consisted of five prodigies who excelled at the sport, but a "Phantom Sixth Man" lurked in the shadows and helped earn the team their revered status. Eventually, their monstrous growth jaded them from the sport they loved and made them go their separate ways in high school.
In search of new members, the Seirin High School basketball team recruits Taiga Kagami and Tetsuya Kuroko, two freshmen who seem to have significant differences in abilities. Having returned recently from America, Kagami has both a natural aptitude and relentless love for the sport. Meanwhile, Kuroko lacks presence and exhibits no outstanding athletic talent. However, it is later revealed that he is Teikou's Phantom Sixth Man—the player once part of the Generation of Miracles.
Kuroko wants to prove to the Seirin team that he is strong in his own way. Seeing his conviction, Kagami forms a dynamic partnership with Kuroko, the latter promising to support Kagami's "light" as his "shadow." Alongside their new Seirin teammates, they aim to conquer the upcoming Interhigh championship, but the reappearance of Kuroko's former teammates complicates their plan.
Hello anime buffs! It’s The Anime Critic here bringing you another thorough review from the colorful land of exciting animes. This time, we are diving into the pulsating world of sports with the highly popular and close to the hearts of many – ‘Kuroko no Basket’. Brought to you by the genius storyteller Tadatoshi Fujimaki, this sports manga turned animated series will have you on the edge of your seat, bitten by the very infectious basketball fever!
Kuroko No Basket – Series Synopsis
‘Kuroko no Basket’ showcases a world of high-school basketball on a mystifying level, reflecting passion, energy, sweat, tears, rivalry, and peaks of joy. Our protagonist, Tetsuya Kuroko, is a former member of the legendary Teikō Junior High basketball team known as “The Generation of Miracles.” Despite each member being remarkably skilled in basketball, they split up in various top-level high schools in Tokyo upon graduation.
Kuroko, initially overlooked due to his lack of physical presence, joins Seirin High School and aims to make his team the best in Japan. He teams up with Kagami Taiga, a naturally talented player whose skills are magnificent. Together, they face numerous challenges and do their utmost to lead their team to the pinnacle of Japan’s high school basketball league.
Anime Review – Kuroko No Basket: A Slam Dunk Effort
Moving on to reviewing this spectacular anime. Kuroko No Basket grips you right from the first episode. Featuring top-notch graphics accompanied by a mind-blowing plot, the anime leaves no stone unturned to make basketball intriguing and soul-stirring. The movements are fluid, the matches are thrilling, the characters are memorable, and the soundtrack is simply sensational.
Adding to the captivating animation are the deep character developments. Every character has a unique basketball style as well as a distinct personality. Our protagonist, Kuroko, even without any exceptional physical attributes, is a master of ‘Misdirection’ adding a touch of mystique to his character. Kagami’s growth from a raw talent to a mature player, and the detailed narrative of the Generation of Miracles’ players each with their unique abilities, strife, and growth, render a profound depth to the story.
Equally, the soundtrack deserves every bit of applause. The dynamite opening and closing themes, and the bgm during matches build up exhilarating energy for the viewers. The voice actors do an exceptional job, they bring just the right emotion needed to complete this picture-perfect anime.
Final Verdict: Dunk or Pass?
In conclusion, Kuroko No Basket is a gripping, thrilling, and engaging sports anime that goes beyond just the game of basketball. It’s about friendship, rivalry, dreams, failures, and above all, the spirit of the sport. If you’re someone who loves sports or enjoys an anime packing action, thrill, drama, and camaraderie, Kuroko No Basket should be at the top of your must-watch list.
So, should you rent, buy, or stream? Whichever option suits you best, just make sure you play this on your screens. It is, without a doubt, a game-changing anime you wouldn’t want to pass on. It’s a definite slam dunk!
Stay tuned for more reviews. Until next time, this is The Anime Critic, signing off!
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Lupin the Third: Mine Fujiko to Iu Onna
TMS EntertainmentMany people are falling prey to a suspicious new religion. Lupin III infiltrates this group, hoping to steal the treasure their leader keeps hidden. There he lays eyes on the beautiful, bewitching woman who has the leader enthralled. This is the story of how fashionable female thief Fujiko Mine first met Lupin III, the greatest thief of his generation.
(Source: ANN)
The Anime Critic’s Review: Lupin the Third: Mine Fujiko to Iu Onna
The Story
In a world tangled with lies and deceit, stands our enigmatic character, Fujiko Mine. She is the multi-faceted femme fatale of the thriving underworld. More than just a master thief, she is a seductive maneuverer who dances on the strings of conspiracy, leaving everyone mystified by her overwhelming charisma.
“Lupin the Third: Mine Fujiko to Iu Onna”, translated as “Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine”, presents the thrilling tale of Fujiko Mine, giving us deep insights into her past and her personal motivations which have never been explored before. Embark on an adrenaline-charged journey of heists, espionage and, above all, a profound understanding of the psyche of this enigmatic character.
Anime Review
Now that we have set the stage, let’s dive right into the evaluation, keeping every curious reader anxiously on their toes, just like this anime does!
Visuals and Art Style
Emerging from the studios of TMS Entertainment, the anime boasts an engaging mix of modern and retro styles. Truly evocative of the classics, while also indulging in modern trends. The dark toned backgrounds compliment the shadowy nature of the characters, engrossing the viewer into the deep labyrinth of their lives.
Soundtrack
Adorned with jazz, rock, and a solitaire of other motifs, the music in “Lupin the Third: Mine Fujiko to Iu Onna” is simply riveting. It creates an ambiance that truly enhances the scene, letting the viewer lose themselves to the intensity or serenity of a moment.
Character Development
Fujiko Mine’s portrayal in this anime is by far one of the most intriguing aspects. We see her not just as a skilled thief but as a complex character with her own past, dreams, and motivations. Each episode is a new revelation of her character. The vulnerable yet tough persona of Fujiko keeps you fundamentally glued to your screens!
Plot
The storyline is not linear; it weaves in and out of the mysteries of the characters and throws in twists that make you clutch your seat. Every episode leaves a trail of questions tickling your curiosity while simultaneously serving an element of surprise for the uncharted journey ahead.
Verdict
“Lupin the Third: Mine Fujiko to Iu Onna” is a volcano waiting to erupt and pull you in! It is an amalgamation of suspense, thrill, and character depth. Whether you are a hardcore Lupin franchise fan or just looking for an anime to binge, this anime should definitely be on your checklist. Rent, buy or stream, no matter what you pick, this ultimate espionage thriller will surely give you an entertaining time!
Remember, this anime successfully combines the charm of the good old days with the freshness of contemporary trends. I would definitely recommend this, and in the words of our very own Fujiko, “This is a game, and I’m the one having fun!”.- Enjoy!
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Sakamichi no Apollon
MAPPA, Tezuka ProductionsIntroverted classical pianist and top student Kaoru Nishimi has just arrived in Kyushu for his first year of high school. Having constantly moved from place to place since his childhood, he abandons all hope of fitting in, preparing himself for another lonely, meaningless year. That is, until he encounters the notorious delinquent Sentarou Kawabuchi.
Sentarou's immeasurable love for jazz music inspires Kaoru to learn more about the genre, and as a result, he slowly starts to break out of his shell, making his very first friend. Kaoru begins playing the piano at after-school jazz sessions, located in the basement of fellow student Ritsuko Mukae's family-owned record shop. As he discovers the immense joy of using his musical talents to bring enjoyment to himself and others, Kaoru's summer might just crescendo into one that he will remember forever.
Sakamichi no Apollon is a heartwarming story of friendship, music, and love that follows three unique individuals brought together by their mutual appreciation for jazz.
Anime Review : Sakamichi no Apollon
Sakamichi no Apollon, better known as “Kids on the Slope”, is a spectacular coming-of-age anime that beautifully touches upon friendship, love, and the magical realm of Jazz music. The story is set in the summer of 1966 and centers around Kaoru Nishimi, a classically-trained pianist who has just moved to Kyushu for his first year of high school.
Kaoru has always been the loner type, dutifully immersing himself in his studies and music. That is, until he encounters the notorious bad boy of the school, Sentarou Kawabuchi, a wild yet incredibly talented drummer. From an unlikely friendship, the duo embarks on an exciting journey of self-discovery, blossoming romance, and music. Sakamichi no Apollon is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending soulful Jazz with touching storytelling in an unforgettable way.
Story & Thematic Depth
From the get-go, Sakamichi no Apollon paints a detailed portrait of life in the ’60s, reflecting on the era’s social movements, evolving fashion, music, and more. There’s an authenticity to this period drama that adds a rich undercurrent to the narrative. And right in the center of it are Kaoru and Sentarou – two seemingly opposite youngsters who, through their shared love for Jazz, come to grips with the highs and lows of growing up.
Animation & Soundtrack
The animation by MAPPA studio is distinctive and vibrant, capturing the true essence of the ’60s and the live sessions of Jazz effortlessly. But where Sakamichi no Apollon really stands out is its music. Much like the impromptu sessions of Jazz in the show, the soundtrack, courtesy of Yoko Kanno, is mesmerizing and feels like a character in itself, enhancing the overall narrative to greater heights.
Character Development
The series takes pride in its nuanced characters who are, much like Jazz, full of surprises. From Kaoru’s journey of self-discovery and breaking away from his isolated shell to Sentarou’s struggle with his identity, the characterization in this series is remarkably rich and engaging. Even the supporting cast plays a pivotal role in the story, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Final Thoughts & Recommendation
Sakamichi no Apollon is a quiet masterpiece that resonates on multiple levels. Its poignant storytelling garnished with dynamic characters and a flair for the Jazz era leaves an indelible mark on the viewer. Whether you’re an avid anime watcher, a Jazz aficionado, or just someone who appreciates a good story, Sakamichi no Apollon is beyond rewarding.
Should you rent, buy, or stream? Well, if you’re passionate about quality anime, music, and heartfelt narratives, considering a purchase wouldn’t be a bad idea. But regardless, this series is undoubtedly worth streaming. Fall in love with the captivating world of Sakamichi no Apollon. You won’t regret it!
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Shirokuma Cafe
PierrotSituated near the local zoo and owned by the charismatic polar bear Shirokuma, Shirokuma Cafe is a popular spot for animals and humans alike, allowing them to sit back and relax after a hard day of work. Whether it's a cold beverage or the latest item on his menu, Shirokuma finds joy in being able to serve his customers, often striking up conversations about various subjects.
Together with the sarcastic Penguin and the clumsy Panda, they form an odd trio who get themselves caught up in all sorts of misadventures with their other friends such as Grizzly, a bar owner, and Sasako, a human who works at the cafe. From dealing with unrequited love, outdoor camping trips, karaoke sessions, and even the secret to brewing delicious coffee, there's always something bound to be happening in Shirokuma Cafe!
Anime Critic Review: Shirokuma Café
Story Synopsis
Imagine a world where humans and talking animals coexist – this is the charming setting of the Shirokuma Café. This slice-of-life anime focuses on the day-to-day operations of the titular café, run by an unassuming Polar Bear and his lively clientele, composed of both humans and a host of very anthropomorphic animals. At the heart of the story is a young Panda who becomes a regular at the café and forms bonds with the fascinating characters frequenting the café.
As Panda navigates through his laid-back life alongside his animal companions, each episode of Shirokuma Café is framed with a whimsical charm which belies its profound life lessons about friendship, work, and love. With subtle comedy and heartfelt interactions that are certain to warm your heart, Shirokuma Café invites you not just into a café, but a world of adorable, unique, and compelling mammalian characters.
Review
Right off the bat, Shirokuma Café sets itself apart with an unconventional premise. The mix of human and animal characters, all with distinct personalities, infuses a unique charm. If you’re expecting a standard cafe-themed drama, you’ll be pleased to find something delightfully different within Shirokuma Café.
The animation in this series is gorgeous with its clean, soft lines and vibrant palette. The character designs are a beautiful fusion of simplicity and detail that perfectly encapsulates the anime’s tone.
The true appeal of Shirokuma Café lies in the heartwarming interactions of its characters. From the affable Polar Bear proprietor with a fondness for lame puns to the lazy but lovable Panda, each character contributes to the relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. The interactions between the characters are complemented by an extraordinary voice cast whose performances elevate the charm and humor of the anime.
The soundtrack adds another layer to the overall experience of Shirokuma Café. With an array of songs artistically embedded throughout the series, each melody perfectly embodies the scene and the emotions of the characters at that moment. The opening and ending themes are especially enchanting as they perfectly capture the anime’s quirky charm.
With the emphasis on everyday conversations and the subtle interplay of humor and personal life revelations, Shirokuma Café may not appeal to those seeking fast-paced, high-action stories. But if you have the patience to enjoy the minute details, the anime’s slow-paced narrative can actually be its biggest asset.
To conclude, Shirokuma Café is a warm, slow-paced slice-of-life anime that will steal your heart with its endearing cast, beautiful animation, amazing soundtrack, and subtle humor. This anime is not just a show – it’s an invitation to sit down, relax, and enjoy a little piece of cafe culture. It is charmingly simple yet remarkably profound, and it is definitely worth your time whether to rent, buy, or stream.
The Anime Critic
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Tasogare Otome x Amnesia
SILVER LINK.Seikyou Private Academy, built on the intrigue of traditional occult myths, bears a dark past—for 60 years, it has been haunted by a ghost known as Yuuko, a young woman who mysteriously died in the basement of the old school building. With no memory of her life or death, Yuuko discreetly finds and heads the Paranormal Investigations Club in search of answers.
A chance meeting leads Yuuko to cling to diligent freshman Teiichi Niiya, who can see the quirky ghost, they quickly grow close, and he decides to help her. Along with Kirie Kanoe, Yuuko's relative, and the oblivious second year Momoe Okonogi, they delve deep into the infamous Seven Mysteries of the storied school.
Tasogare Otome x Amnesia tells a unique tale of students who work together to shed light on their school's paranormal happenings, all the while inching closer to the truth behind Yuuko's death.
Introduction:
Hello, greetings from The Anime Critic! Today, we’re taking a deep dive into a spectacular supernatural mystery anime: ‘Tasogare Otome x Amnesia’ or ‘Dusk Maiden of Amnesia’, which since its release, has garnered an incredibly fascinated audience worldwide. But, is it really worth your time, space, and money? Should you rent, buy, or just stream it on your favorite anime platform? Buckle in, folks as I’m about to help you solve this mystifying scenario that’s as intriguing as the anime itself!
Synopsis:
Tasogare Otome x Amnesia lurks around Seikyou Private Academy, a revered institution with a peculiar history that dates back 60 years. When our protagonist, Niiya Teiichi, stumbles upon the enigmatic Yuuko Kanoe, they unravel the academy’s numerous obscure tales and well-kept secrets. The twist is that Yuuko is a ghost, tethered to Niiya, with no memory of her past or how she died.
As the series unfolds, we follow Niiya, Yuuko, and their friends as they form the Paranormal Investigations Club and endeavor to unveil the veiled circumstances surrounding Yuuko’s death, all the while experiencing spine-chilling paranormal activities within the academy’s daunting walls.
Review:
The first thing I must commend about Dusk Maiden of Amnesia is its captivating visuals. The art style is both distinctive and gorgeous, presenting the academy’s gothic ambiance and the characters in an appealing aesthetic light.
The storyline, rich in emotion and enhanced by its thrilling supernatural elements, is both unique and compelling, with each episode offering new depth and insight into the hauntingly beautiful world of this anime.
An anime is incomplete without its characters, and Dusk Maiden of Amnesia hosts an interesting cast. Yuuko Kanoe, despite her ghostly attributes, is a layered character who manages to provide comic relief, intrigue, and drama. Niiya Teiichi, the naïve bystander drawn into this spectral scenario, captures your empathy, balancing heroism with vulnerability throughout.
The music is another aspect that shines in this anime. The theme songs and background tracks capture the show’s fluctuating moods perfectly – from spine-chilling suspense, heartwarming romance to laugh-out-loud comedy.
In terms of pace, the show never falters. Each episode maintains a good tempo that keeps you hooked for the next chapter, constantly building suspense that’s well-resolved in the climax.
However, if there’s a grey area in this otherwise spectacular anime, it lies in its occasional tonal inconsistencies. The compositions at times are shaky, switching between horror, comedy, and romance rapidly. It’s a minor flaw that is heavily overpowered by the anime’s strengths.
The Verdict:
Is Dusk Maiden of Amnesia worth your time? Absolutely yes. This anime brings a fresh, well-executed take on the supernatural genre, engulfing the viewers in its enthralling tales woven with suspense, emotion, and even humor. Should you rent, buy or stream? If you’re a fan of ghost stories and high school drama, this anime is definitely worth adding to your collection. Don’t miss out on the mystical journey of ‘Tasogare Otome x Amnesia. It deserves more than just a passing glance. Remember, dear viewers, some mysteries are meant to be unravelled!
Until next time, remember to keep exploring the diverse world of Anime, one episode at a time!
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
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Uchuu Kyoudai
A-1 PicturesOn a fateful summer night in 2006, Mutta Nanba and his younger brother Hibito witness what they believe to be a UFO flying toward the Moon. This impressing and unusual phenomenon leads both siblings vowing to become astronauts, with Hibito aiming for the Moon and Mutta, convinced that the eldest brother has to be one step ahead, for Mars.
Now an adult, life hasn't turned out how Mutta had pictured it: he is diligently working in an automotive company, whereas Hibito is on his way to be the very first Japanese man to step on the Moon. However, after losing his job, Mutta is presented with an unexpected opportunity to catch up to his younger brother when the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency, commonly known as JAXA, accepts his application to participate in the next astronaut selection. Despite self-doubts about his prospects, Mutta is unwilling to waste this chance of a lifetime, and thus embarks on an ambitious journey to fulfill the promise made 19 years ago.
Synopsis:
Uchuu Kyoudai, or “Space Brothers” in English, tells the inspiring tale of two brothers, Mutta and Hibito Nanba, bound by childhood dreams and adult realities. As kids, the two made a promise upon seeing a UFO – to become astronauts and voyage into the cosmos. Fast forward to adulthood, Hibito is a fully fledged astronaut set for a lunar mission, while Mutta, outrun by life’s grind, finds himself unemployed after impulsively headbutting his boss.
While wallowing in his misfortune, Mutta receives a letter from the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), thus reigniting his long-dormant dreams. As he grapples with unique challenges and tough competitors on his journey to join his sibling in space, the brothers find themselves gradually pulled together by their common ambitions. Uchuu Kyoudai is a heartwarming journey of hope, hard work, and brotherhood, set against a backdrop of celestial fascination.
Review:
So you’re here because you want to know if Uchuu Kyoudai is worth a rent or buy or stream? Well, folks, it’s not just a should… it’s a must! Now, let’s dive into why this cosmic gem deserves your undivided attention.
First, let’s start with the characters, our brothers in arms, or should I say in space, Mutta and Hibito. Never before have I seen such a profound depiction of brotherhood in anime. Their dynamic, the supporting characters, the beautiful bonds of camaraderie that form are what makes Uchuu Kyoudai oh so special. You will laugh, cry, and celebrate with these characters, I promise you. It’s emotional storytelling at its finest.
Next, the animation! Uchuu Kyoudai might not have the flashy, over-the-top animation you find in certain anime, but I consider this a boon rather than a detriment. The creators have opted for a clean, realistic style, which when paired with its meticulous attention to detail and the scientific intricacies of space travel, creates a visually compelling world.
Of course, no review would be complete without mentioning the music. And folks, Uchuu Kyoudai delivers here too. The soundtrack plays like a beautifully interwoven symphony through the cosmos, accompanying the narrative and accentuating the show’s emotional beats. It’s an auditory treat!
Lastly, let’s not forget the story. Uchuu Kyoudai never forgets its thematic roots – to always strive for your dreams and never give up, no matter what obstacle you face. This will resonate with viewers, no matter their background, making Uchuu Kyoudai an anime with universal (pun intended) appeal.
To wrap it up, Uchuu Kyoudai is an impressive blend of relatable characters, solid animation, gripping music, and a hope-inspiring story. So whether you’re an anime newbie or a seasoned veteran, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Uchuu Kyoudai a shot. Rent, buy, or stream, but do not miss this chance to embark on a journey that transcends time and space!
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