Spring 2020
Fruits Basket 2nd Season
TMS EntertainmentA year has passed since Tooru Honda began living in the Souma residence, and she has since created stronger relationships with its inhabitants Shigure, Kyou, and Yuki. She has also grown closer to the rest of the Souma family and has become familiar with their ancestral secret, having helped them with many of their personal issues. The closer Tooru gets, however, the more she begins to realize that their secret holds a darker truth than she first presumed.
Summer is approaching and Tooru is invited to spend her days with the Soumas, mainly Kyou and Yuki. Tooru wishes for an easy-going vacation, but her close relationships with the two boys and the rest of the Soumas may prove to cause trouble. As they grow more intimate, their carefree time together is hindered by older hardships and feelings from the past that begin to resurface. The Eternal Banquet also dawns on the members of the zodiac, and they must tend to their duties alongside the unnerving head of the family, Akito Souma.
With the banquet approaching and a plethora of feelings to be solved, will Tooru's life with the Soumas remain peaceful, or will she find herself in a situation from which she cannot escape?
Welcome back to The Anime Critic, where we dissect all things anime and manga. If you’re contemplating whether to stream, rent, or buy a specific anime, you’re in the right place! Today, we’re delving into the mystical world of Fruits Basket 2nd Season. This review will give you an encompassing idea of the journey you’re about to embark on, while avoiding any harmful spoilers.
Synopsis
Fruits Basket is a slice-of-life shōjo manga series turned legendary anime. At the heart of the captivating story is the adorable Tohru Honda, a resilient high school student forced to live in a tent after losing her mother in a fatal car accident. Her life takes a magical turn after discovering that the family property she’s been camping on belongs to the distinguished Sohma family, who are cursed by the Chinese zodiac, each transforming into an animal of the zodiac when hugged by the opposite sex.
In the second season, Tohru continues to weave deep bonds with the Sohma family. Delving further into their intricate history and secrets, she explores deeper relationships and evolves emotionally. The season brings a mix of light-hearted moments and emotional tearjerkers, setting a perfect tone for the continuation of Tohru’s quest to break the Sohma family curse.
Review
Fruits Basket 2nd Season does an outstanding job of building upon the solid foundation established in season one. It gives the familiar characters deeper dimensions while introducing new characters who add complexity to the plot. The pacing of the anime is commendable; it beautifully switches between humorous moments and emotional situations, maintaining a balance that keeps you glued to the screen.
The artwork, too, stands out. Fluid animation combined with well-delineated characters contribute to a visually pleasing anime experience. Not to mention the emotion-infused soundtrack that complements each scene perfectly, making the audience feel exactly what the creators intended to convey.
The crown jewel of the season, however, is undoubtedly the story. It goes beyond the typical slice-of-life model, managing to throw multiple curveballs that keep you hooked. Episodes are filled with intriguing family secrets, blossoming relationships, and suspense that will leave you eager for the next episode.
This season maintains its successful blend of romance, comedy, and drama, presented with a fantastical twist. It’s truly immersive, allowing the viewers to experience a roller coaster of emotions along with the characters. It’s safe to say, Fruits Basket 2nd Season has managed to please fans while attracting new viewers.
Final Verdict
With its multi-dimensional characters, intriguing storyline, and rewarding emotional payoff, Fruits Basket 2nd Season definitely deserves your attention. So, whether you’re an ardent manga lover, a dedicated anime watcher, or a casual viewer looking to spend some quality time, do yourself a favor and don’t miss out on Fruits Basket 2nd Season.
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Honzuki no Gekokujou: Shisho ni Naru Tame ni wa Shudan wo Erandeiraremasen 2nd Season
Ajia-doWhen Myne learns that the Holy Church is in need of mana for their relics, she sees it as her chance to be cured of her life-threatening mana disorder. After seeing their bountiful library, she throws herself headfirst into the Church's grasp and begs to join their order. In exchange for her service and her unusually bountiful supply of mana, Myne is given the blue robes of a noble-born apprentice priestess, despite being a commoner. To Myne, all this talk of mana and nobility is trivial, as she now has access to an unlimited supply of books!
As Myne transitions into the next phase of her life in this new world, she soon learns that achieving her dream has come at a heavy cost. Noble society is severe, unforgiving, and fueled by politics and neglect. She must now deal with the class conflict between the noble-born blue robes and the common-born grey robes, the High Priest's attempts to oust her, and constant behavioral issues from her new retainers. With the help of her family, friends, and the enigmatic Head Priest whose loyalties and motives remain unknown, Myne seeks to overcome these obstacles and continue on the path to becoming her ideal self—the ultimate librarian!
Review | Honzuki no Gekokujou: Shisho ni Naru Tame ni wa Shudan wo Erandeiraremasen 2nd Season
Story: Translated in English as ‘Ascendance of a Bookworm’, the anime revolves around Motosu Urano, a book-loving post-secondary student who incessantly dreams of surrounding herself with literature. However, she meets her untimely demise in an unexpected earthquake which causes her dreamy den to collapse onto her. Before the darkness of death engulfs her, she desperately yearns to read more books in her next life.
She is reincarnated as a feeble young girl named Myne in a world where literature barely exists, and only the affluents and clergy have the access to the precious paucity of books. Despite the switch in character strengths from robust university student to frail child, our heroine makes a firm decision of manufacturing and printing her books if she can’t buy them!
REVIEW
Welcome back, anime enthusiasts! The Anime Critic returns with a compelling review of the exhilarating Honzuki no Gekokujou: Shisho ni Naru Tame ni wa Shudan wo Erandeiraremasen 2nd Season or simply known as ‘Ascendance of a Bookworm’ Part 2.
Characters & Development: Our admirable heroine, Myne, continues her indomitable spirit in this season, her character development is as vibrant as one could expect. Each episode visualizes her struggles, the trials she faces and her journey in becoming a self-made person in a world where social status is paramount are altogether stunning. Her deep love for books resonates with every bibliophile out there!
Art & Animation: The animation studio Ajia-do Animation Works has indeed outdone themselves. Complementing the gripping storyline, the depiction of the medieval world is truly picturesque. The art, character sketches, and animation breathe life into the narrative, drawing you into Myne’s world.
Storyline & Plot Development: This season parallels the excitement of the first, if not surpassing it. Building up the existing plot, preparing the audience with simmering anticipation, it artfully draws you into the story’s heart. The struggles of Myne, particularly with her frail physique and her steadfast wisdom, are balanced meticulously in the narrative, leaving viewers in awe and thorough satisfaction.
Soundtrack & Voice Acting: Complimenting the animation is the extraordinary sound design, seeping deep into your senses. The background scores are harmoniously woven with the plotline, enhancing each scene’s emotional impact. Plus, the voice actors proficiently breathed life into their respective characters, making it a joy to listen.
Verdict: The brandishing charm of ‘Ascendance of a Bookworm’ Part 2 is undoubtedly a visual feast for anime lovers worldwide. It’s a telltale sign of a masterpiece that successfully marries a unique storyline, sublime art, and profound character development. It’s a definite buy for those who want it in their treasured collection and a must-stream for everyone else in the anime world. The emotional roller coaster ride that this season provides reflects the creator’s authentic love for art and literature. It’s a great follow-up to the first season, and a third season is highly anticipated!
This season’s Ascendance of a Bookworm is, in a nutshell, a must-watch. Whether you choose to buy, rent, or stream, make your life zingy with this rich catalog of anime that continues to shine through its splendid storytelling and captivating artistry.
So fans, let’s dive into the world of Myne, who teaches us that passion and determination can indeed move mountains, or in this case, create books! Stay tuned with The Anime Critic for more reviews and anime fun!
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IDOLiSH7 Second Beat!
TROYCAFollowing their performance at the Black or White event, the idol group IDOLiSH7 is at the height of its popularity, with offers for various concerts and work coming in every day, much to the joy of the seven boys and their manager. However, as their fame continues to rise, Riku Nanase's health begins worsening due to the heavy workload.
With the gigantic idol duo Re:vale showing interest in the group and the reopening event of the Zero Arena coming up, IDOLiSH7: Second Beat follows IDOLiSH7 as they not only struggle to adapt to the challenges of the idol life but also to face their personal troubles, all while continuously meeting the expectations of their treasured fans.
IDOLiSH7 Second Beat! Comprehensive Review
The story of IDOLiSH7 Second Beat! Continues the journey of the seven-member boy band, Idolish7 and their challenge to become the best in the competitive world of J-Pop. Managed by Takanashi Production, the group includes talented individuals, each with distinct and unique personalities. They may be unknowns at the start, but throughout their journey, they evolve into professional artists, gaining popularity and recognition for their music and performance.
In the Second Beat, this ambitious group takes on the competitive industry head-on, facing both professional and personal challenges. Their path is sprinkled with obstacles, from power dynamics within the industry, competition with a rival band, TRIGGER, intimate relationships that test their brotherhood, to the secrets that put their loyalty to the test. All while trying to balance their exploding popularity and create music that truly defines them.
Storyline
This anime truly nails it on all fronts, and the overall storyline does not disappoint! IDOLiSH7 Second Beat continues the boys’ journey filled with struggles, competition, controversies, and their determination to overcome these hurdles. It presents a surprisingly on-point depiction of the idol industry, with intricate plot developments that holds you, keeping you on your toes till the very last episode.
Animation and Sound
The animation quality is top-notch and is a visible improvement from the first season. Each character is designed carefully with attention to details, enhancing the visual appeal of the show. The costumes, performances, and the colorful backdrops elevate the sizzling on-stage atmosphere, making viewers feel like a part of the audience. The smooth transitions perfectly complement the unfolding drama.
As for the sound design, it’s a treat for the ears! Each track, be it a show-opening number or the background score, fits the scene perfectly. It immerses you in the world of Idolish7, truly making for a captivating watching and listening experience.
Character Development
One aspect where IDOLiSH7 really shines is its character development. The second season digs deeper into the personalities. You can’t help but empathize with the boys as they navigate through the cutthroat industry. Their friendships, their hidden fears, their relationships, everything comes alive, making each character more relatable and human.
Verdict
Overall, IDOLiSH7 Second Beat! Is a profound dive into the glitzy yet challenging idol industry. Its engrossing storyline, breath-taking animation, vivid soundtracks accompanied with terrific character development, it is an anime that deserves your time.
Whether you should rent, buy, or stream, it is a definitive ‘yes’ from The Anime Critic! This anime deserves space on your shelf. Grab that remote and dive in!
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Kaguya-sama wa Kokurasetai? Tensai-tachi no Renai Zunousen
A-1 PicturesAfter a slow but eventful summer vacation, Shuchiin Academy's second term is now starting in full force. As August transitions into September, Miyuki Shirogane's birthday looms ever closer, leaving Kaguya Shinomiya in a serious predicament as to how to celebrate it. Furthermore, the tenure of the school's 67th student council is coming to an end. Due to the council members being in different classes, the only time Kaguya and Miyuki have to be together will soon disappear, putting all of their cunning plans at risk.
A long and difficult election that will decide the fate of the new student council awaits, as multiple challengers fight for the coveted title of president.
Anime Review by The Anime Critic : ‘Kaguya-Sama WA Kokurasetai? Tensai-Tachi No Renai Zunousen’
Synopsis
‘Kaguya-Sama Wa Kokurasetai?’ (also known as ‘Kaguya-sama: Love is War’) is a romantic comedy that does not follow the usual clichéd narrative. The story primarily focuses on Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane, two acclaimed geniuses who serve as the student council president and vice-president at Shuchiin Academy – a prestigious school for the elites.
The peculiar romance between Kaguya and Miyuki is not your typical boy-meets-girl fairy tale. Both having pride as high as the sky refuse to confess their feelings to the other, considering it as an act of submission. Instead, they engage in various stratagems to make the other confess their love first, leading to hilarious shenanigans and comic situations, while subtly exploring their burgeoning feelings towards each other.
The Anime Critic’s Review
Jumping right into ‘Kaguya-Sama WA Kokurasetai?’ was probably one of the most satisfying decision I’ve made recently. This anime redefines the romance-comedy genre by unleashing a battle of wits for displaying affection.
The story does not follow a linear pattern but offers episodic tactical battles stylized as a chess game between Kaguya and Miyuki. A major strength of this show is its ability to maintain balance. The narrative cleverly intersperses comedy with segments of genuine emotion, allowing for a deep connection with the characters.
The attention to detail in the animation is truly commendable. The expressive character designs and background art complement the comical tone, while they still manage to portray dramatic moments with grace and impact. Midi Yuki’s marvelous soundtrack further enhances each episode’s atmosphere, making them more memorable.
While Kaguya and Miyuki are the star protagonists, the supporting cast plays a substantial role in the series. Chika Fujiwara, with her unpredictability, often becomes the wild card that disrupts Kaguya’s and Miyuki’s carefully planned stratagems. Ishigami, the rather gloomy treasurer, steals the show on more than one occasion with his occasional insights.
From an overall perspective, ‘Kaguya-Sama: Love is War’ is a refreshing twist to the romantic comedy genre. The show masterfully combines an engaging storyline, fantastic animation, and a memorable soundtrack to transport the viewer into the world of Kaguya and Miyuki.
If you’re a fan of rom-coms that stray away from the conventional, this is a must-watch! Whether you decide to rent, buy, or stream it, you’re in for an unforgettable experience that will leave you eagerly waiting for each new episode. This anime will indeed be a challenge for those who want to not root for both Kagaya and Miyuki in this enjoyable game of love and war!
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Kakushigoto
Ajia-doKakushi Gotou is a somewhat popular manga artist whose works are known for inappropriate content. Because of this raunchiness, when his daughter Hime was born, he vowed to keep his profession hidden from her, believing that she will be disillusioned if she finds out.
This paranoia-induced belief leads Kakushi into hectic situations. Despite being a single father, he does his best and often resorts to extreme ends just to protect his secret, such as guising as a salaryman every day or holding emergency drills in case Hime somehow finds her way to his workplace.
Kakushigoto tells the story of a father and daughter living side by side, maintaining their peaceful existence as the father attempts to preserve the status quo. However, there is a saying: "there are no secrets that time cannot reveal." In time, Hime must learn the reality behind the things she took for granted as she grew up.
Synopsis:
Kakushigoto revolves around the life of a single father and mangaka, GoTo Kakushi. He’s the author of a raunchy gag manga and is trying to keep this a secret from his young daughter, Hime. Called “Kakushigoto” (a clever play on word that means “secret” in Japanese), this anime reflects its title on two fronts, Goto Kakushi’s secret job and the hardship of parenting itself, both penned with comedic genius often veering into heartwarming and poignant territories.
Built on a scaffolding of slice-of-life narratives interspersed with hilarious situational comedy, Kakushigoto is a balance beam performance between humour and sentimentality. What starts as comedy morphs into a profound tale of the love between a father-daughter and the lengths to which a parent will go to protect a child’s innocence.
Review:
Kakushigoto brings humour and reality together in a perfect blend, delivering a story that tickles your funny bone but also plucks at your heartstrings. It may be based on gag manga, yet, it lends an unwavering gaze towards life’s struggles and the allure of family bonds. This contrasting mix makes it delightful and impactful!
The animation and art style are commendable, expected from Ajia-do Animation Works that in the past has served remarkable titles like ascendance of a bookworm. The character designs are expressive, the backgrounds are lovingly detailed, and the overall ambiance is refreshing. Expect pleasing aesthetics at every click that contributes to the emotions the scenes aim to portray.
The characters add so much depth to the story. Goto Kakushi, in all his scaredy-cat goofiness, wins hearts. His earnest determination to hide his profession while doing his best as a single parent is at once comical and touching. Hime, with her absolutely adorable persona and innocence, too, is a well-crafted character. The interaction and chemistry between the father-daughter duo are a spectacular highlight of this anime.
Soundtrack and Voice Acting:
I must mention the beautiful soundtrack that holds the ability to induce gentle laughter in one scene and might make you teary-eyed in the next. “Chisana Hibi” used as the opening track sets the tone of the anime perfectly. The closing tracks are adaptable, changing with the tone of the conclusion of the episode, some being light-hearted while others, sentimental.
The voice acting deserves applause as well, greatly enlivening the characters. Hiroshi Kamiya, voicing Goto Kakushi, brings out the complexities of his character flawlessly. Rie Takahashi, voicing Hime, enhances her innocence through her performance. The casting couldn’t have been better.
Final Verdict:
Kakushigoto is that rare piece of animation that combines comedy and sentimentality with utter brilliance. The anime offers laughter, warmth, and some food for thought, all wrapped within an aesthetically pleasing package of well-designed art and commendable voice acting. For the fans of slice-of-life anime, this is an absolute gem worth renting, buying, or streaming. Go on this heartwarming journey of love, laughter, and life’s little absurdities with Goto Kakushi and Hime. As the anime critic, I promise you, it’s worth your time!
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Kingdom 3rd Season
Pierrot, Studio SignpostFollowing the successful Sanyou campaign, the Qin army, including 1,000-Man Commander Xin, inches ever closer to fulfilling King Ying Zheng's dream of unifying China. With a major geographical foothold in the state of Wei now under its control, Qin sets its sights eastward toward the remaining warring states.
Meanwhile Li Mu—an unparalleled strategist and the newly appointed prime minister of the state of Zhao—has taken advantage of Zhao's temporary truce with Qin to negotiate with the other states without interruption. Seemingly without warning, Ying Zheng receives news that armies from the states of Chu, Zhao, Wei, Han, Yan, and Qi have crossed into Qin territory. Realizing too late the purpose behind Li Mu's truce with Qin, Zheng quickly gathers his advisors to devise a plan to address the six-state coalition army on their doorstep. For the first time in history, the state of Qin faces complete destruction and must use every resource and strategy at their disposal to prevent themselves from being wiped off the map.
Kingdom 3rd Season – An Epic of War and Heroism
Enter the world of Kingdom’s 3rd Season, a tale of pure medieval heroism, relentless warfare, and intense political intrigue, all set against the backdrop of the sprawling ancient Chinese Qin Dynasty. Follow the journey of our main protagonist, Xin, a war-orphan turned elite soldier, on his lofty quest to climb the ranks of the State of Qin’s military and ultimately become the ‘Great General of the Heavens’. Alongside him, is Ying Zheng, Qin’s young king with an unyielding ambition to unify the whole of China under his rule, regardless of the cost.
Throughout the narrative, we bear witness to the tactics and strategy of war, unbreakable bonds of loyalty, and personal struggle. Other themes such as ambition, betrayal, sacrifice, and the very essence of leadership further decorate the plot. Amidst visceral battles and political maneuverings lie heart-wrenching moments of loss and inspiring instances of triumph. Strap in for an extraordinary journey into the depths of human resilience and the tides of history.
The Review
Right from the get-go, it’s clear that the creators of Kingdom 3rd Season have spared no expense in crafting an intricate and engaging universe. The animation has significantly improved from the previous seasons, with smooth transitions and detailed character designs that immerse you in the story’s period setting. The seamless integration of traditional 2D animation with 3D graphics is one of the shining highlights of the aesthetics.
Our protagonist, Xin’s story is compelling and is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever dared to dream. What makes his character more significant is not his physical power, but his unfaltering spirit and determination. Similarly, the depiction of Ying Zheng as an ambitious, calculating, yet complex character is masterfully done.
The story development across episodes is very natural without rushing events. The political plotlines are as intriguing as the visceral battles and add depth to the series. This season in particular delves into the meaning of leadership, loyalty, and the steep price of ambition, showcased impressively during Xin and Zheng’s character arcs.
One aspect where Kingdom 3rd Season shines, however, is in its sound design. From intense battle sequences to quiet moments of introspection, the show weaves a soundscape that both enhances the visuals and maintains the tension. Accompanied by a grandiose, orchestral score, Kingdom’s soundtrack deserves a standing ovation.
Verdict
Kingdom 3rd Season is a deeply immersive, beautifully crafted piece of the anime art form, a feast for the eyes and the mind alike. It expertly combines elements of action, strategy, and heart-pulling drama to create an anime that assaults the senses and tugs at the heartstrings.
Regardless if you intend to rent, buy or stream, Kingdom 3rd Season comes with an emphatic recommendation. Whether you are an insatiable anime gourmet or a casual viewer looking for a binge-worthy series, this anime checks all the boxes. It’s not just an anime, it’s an intimate journey through the spectacle of human conflict, aspiration, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.
My overall rating for Kingdom 3rd Season: 9.5/10. Until our next review, stay animated!
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