Summer 2001

Fruits Basket

Studio Deen
26 episodes · TV Completed
7.69

After the accident in which she lost her mother, 16-year-old Tooru moves in with her grandfather, but due to his home being renovated, is unable to continue living with him. Claiming she will find someone to stay with but also fearing the criticism of her family and not wanting to burden any of her friends, Tooru resorts to secretly living on her own in a tent in the woods.

One night on her way back from work, she finds her tent buried underneath a landslide. Yuki Souma, the "prince" of her school, and his cousin Shigure Souma, a famous author, stumble across Tooru's situation and invite her to stay with them until her grandfather's home renovations are complete.

Upon arriving at the Souma house, Tooru discovers their secret: if a Souma is hugged by someone of the opposite gender, they temporarily transform into one of the animals of the zodiac! However, this strange phenomenon is no laughing matter; rather, it is a terrible curse that holds a dark history. As she continues her journey, meeting more members of the zodiac family, will Tooru's kindhearted yet resilient nature be enough to prepare her for what lies behind the Souma household's doors?

The Anime Critic: Reviewing Fruits Basket!

Anime has a magical way of capturing various aspects of the human experience, and there’s nothing that exemplifies this more than the incredibly heartwarming story of Fruits Basket. Stumbling into her journey, Tohru Honda, the story’s indefatigable protagonist, navigates her life with a determination that is both inspiring and infectious. Get ready to plunge into a world where zodiac animals take human form and where tales of courage, hearbreak, and resilience fill every moment.

The story kicks off with Tohru Honda, an optimistic high school student, who, after a series of unfortunate events, ends up living in a tent. By a twist of fate, she discovers that she’s been camping on land belonging to the distinguished Sohma clan. When they invite her to stay in their home in exchange for housekeeping duties, her life intertwines with theirs in ways she never expected. The Sohmas live under a peculiar curse that transforms them into the animals of the Chinese zodiac whenever they are hugged by someone of the opposite sex who isn’t cursed. The real essence of the story unfolds as Tohru learns about their secret and embarks on a journey filled with self-discovery, hardship, and powerful friendships.

Visual and Auditory Artistry

Calling the art direction in Fruits Basket a visual treat would be an understatement! The yen for detail in each character design and environmental component sing to the high production value of the series. The animation is smooth and deliberate, offering an immersive viewing experience. And let’s talk about the music, which is just as emotionally stirring as the storyline. The soundtrack beautifully echoes the series’ emotional highs and lows, designed to tug at your heartstrings.

Character Development and Storyline

Fruits Basket offers a killer combination of an enigmatic plot and deeply complex characters. The creators do an exceptional job of exploring the Sohmas’ inner demons and battles, which adds a poignant depth to the overall narrative. Tohru Honda, as an entity, is beautifully depicted – while her unwavering cheerfulness could have easily been one-dimensional, she’s given layers, evolving with each new challenge. The greatest strength of Fruits Basket is its ability to provide each character with a rich backstory while keeping the forward momentum of the plot.

Watch it, Stream it, or Skip it?

If you’re wondering whether to watch, buy, or stream Fruits Basket, let me tell you this – it’s a definite “watch it!” This is not just an anime for enthusiasts of romantic-comedy-drama genre. It proves to be a satisfyingly depth-ridden anime that will leave you deeply moved, representing the genre at its finest. So if you’re on the fence about adding Fruits Basket to your anime library, consider this your push.

Fruits Basket is an emotional roller coaster that is heart-wrenchingly beautiful and consistently engaging. The series will make you think, feel, and more importantly, it will make you care about the lives being portrayed. It’s a shining exemplar of anime’s ability to beautifully encapsulate the human experience.

Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, Fruits Basket is everything one could hope for in an anime – it’s well-paced, deeply moving, and visually stunning. Above all, it’s unutterably beautiful, replete with characters that will make you laugh, cry, and most importantly, make you feel. So take the plunge, embark on this extraordinary journey, and let Fruits Basket take a special place in your heart. Dive in, and as Tohru would say, “Good luck!”

Fruits Basket
7.69 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Fruits Basket brilliantly combines a heartwarming narrative with multidimensional characters that are easy to relate to. Its beautiful animation and engaging storytelling make it a standout in the anime world.
Cons
Fruits Basket's pacing can be incredibly slow, which makes the plot seem dragged out and boring at times. Additionally, some characters lack depth and development, making it hard for viewers to connect with them.
Summary
Fruits Basket is a heartwarming anime bringing together elements of drama, romance, and fantasy in a beautifully animated world. It presents a unique storyline about a girl who discovers that her classmates turn into zodiac animals when hugged. This delightful, character-driven tale explores themes of acceptance, love, and family bonds with a great balance of humor and emotion.
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Seikai no Senki II

Sunrise
10 episodes · TV Completed
7.79

Due to a lack of ambassadors for the recently-conquered worlds the rapidly advancing fleet of the Bebaus brothers leave behind, Lafiel is appointed Territorial Ambassador of the planet Lobnas II. Upon arriving to the planet Jinto and Lafiel discover that the planet was used by the United Mankind as a prison planet and now has a million prisoners on the only inhabited island. The prisoners are parted in three blocks. The western where women are housed, the eastern belongs to the men and the central is mixed under the restriction that all prisoners living there are sterilized. The women in the western sector want to emigrate from the planet of fear for the men and when they do the men in the east rebel, overthrowing the guards and capturing Jinto to try to stop the emigration of the women. At the same time an enemy fleet heads toward the system forcing Lafiel to abandon Jinto.

(Source: ANN)




Seikai no Senki II – A Tale of Intergalactic Relations and Intrigue

Set in the sprawling universe of Crest of the Stars, Seikai no Senki II (aka Banner of the Stars II) takes us through another fascinating journey of the Abh Empire’s nobility, this time focusing on the concept of complex interstellar relationships, interpersonal growth, and a fresh take on intergalactic diplomacy.

The story deepens the understanding of the Abh Empire’s social, political, and cultural aspects, marked by an intricate network of relationships, rules, and customs. At the heart of the tale are our beloved lead characters, the youthful and intelligent Imperial Abh Officer Jinto, alongside the cool, composed, and seemingly emotionless Lafiel. As they navigate this complicated mesh, they delve into a thrilling journey of wit, suspense, and character development, with the futuristic universe serving as a high-stakes backdrop.

Character Development – A Masterwork of Subtlety

Seikai no Senki II truly excels in the character development department. Lafiel and Jinto’s personal growth and relationship evolution are crafted exquisitely, capturing the subtleties of their burgeoning maturity and reciprocal understanding.

Lafiel, although initially stiff and reserved, begins to come into her own, expressing her emotions more openly and caring for Jinto deeply. Jinto, on the other hand, gains much-needed experience and confidence, shedding his anxiety and fear about not fitting in amongst the Abh, and instead embracing the Empire’s idiosyncrasies in his stride.

The Universe – An Intriguing Landscape!

The universe of the Abh Empire, with its politics, technology, and laws, provides a rich backdrop. The animation gives justice to the massive scale of the universe with stunning use of colors, intricate detailing of the environments and technologies, effectively portraying a society established around highly advanced spacefaring capabilities.

Storyline – Constellation of Suspense and Drama!

The story in Seikai no Senki II is a unique blend of profound development of political dynamics and interpersonal relationships. The intrigue, suspense, and diplomacy blend seamlessly, thus, creating an overall gripping narrative that keeps you hooked.

Overall Assessment

Taking everything together, from its immersive universe to its nuanced character development and gripping storyline, Seikai no Senki II has secured its title as a pinnacle of the Sci-Fi genre. It’s a must-watch for those who loved the first series and an entertaining journey for newcomers interested in delving into the world of space opera anime.

So, is it worth the rent/buy/stream? Without a shred of doubt, YES! Delve into the fascinating lore and thrilling narrative of Seikai no Senki II – you won’t be disappointed.


Seikai no Senki II
7.79 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Seikai no Senki II further enhances the in-depth story-telling and character development introduced in the first season. It continues to impress with strong political narratives, awe-inspiring space opera themes, and improved animation quality.
Cons
The pacing of Seikai no Senki II can be slow and monotonous at times, which might not appeal to those seeking action-packed sequences. Some fans also felt that certain character developments were lacking depth.
Summary
In the continuation of the epic space opera, Seikai no Senki II enchants viewers with its intricate narrative and well-rounded characters. The series skillfully weaves a tale of interstellar politics and war into a captivating story that grips from start to finish. With its high-quality animation and distinctive character development, it's a must-see for fans of the genre.
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Shaman King

Xebec
64 episodes · TV Completed
7.75

A battle is about to begin in Tokyo: the Shaman Fight, a tournament held every five hundred years where shaman—those who can command spirits—confront each other in combat. The victor of this contest becomes the Shaman King and the only one who is able to contact and control the Great Spirit, allowing them to reshape the world as they please through its immense power.

During a late night walk, Manta Oyamada runs into his classmate, the carefree You Asakura, who invites him to come stargazing with some friends, who, to Manta's horror, turn out to be ghosts from a local cemetery! However, the knowledge that Manta possesses—a rare sixth sense that allows Manta to see these spirits—endears the boy to You. So when You finds out that his new comrade has been beaten up by a local gang, he decides to avenge him with the help of Amidamaru, a samurai ghost whose tomb was broken by the gang leader.

Soon Manta uncovers more about the world of spirits, including the Shaman Fight, in which his new friend You aims to claim victory.

Shaman King: The Blend of Ancient Tradition and Modern Storytelling

In the fascinating world of Shaman King, we’re introduced to Yoh Asakura, a seemingly laid-back middle school student. However, Yoh is a shaman, able to see and interact with spirits. He’s aloof and unambitious, but when a looming tournament, The Shaman Fight, threatens to disturb the restful harmony of his life, Yoh gives it his all for the sake of love, friendship, and the fate of humanity.

The Shaman Fight is held once every 500 years, a match to determine the Shaman King. This crowned entity gets to collaborate with the Great Spirit, which holds control over everything from the cycle of life to the laws of nature. A plethora of shamans from all around the globe gather their spirit allies to participate in this heavy-dutied tournament. The show is a tale of friendship, battles, life, death, and the spirit world.

Storyline and Characters

The plot might sound conventional at first glance, but it’s the execution that sets Shaman King apart. The series takes a unique approach to the genre, blending Japanese folklore with urban fantasy. Each character is well-developed and beautifully illustrated with their own unique quirks and backstories. The narrative doesn’t just focus on Yoh but chooses to equally emphasize the supporting characters as well.

Artwork and Music

Artwork: Shaman King’s art is absolutely stunning. You’re bound to appreciate the care put into designing the characters and their respective spirits. The landscape and backgrounds don’t take a backseat either; They’re striking, vivid and immensely atmospheric, perfectly capturing the ethereal feel of the spirit world.

Music: The soundtrack perfectly compliments the storytelling. The tunes vary from upbeat and energetic to sombre and emotive, reflecting the rollercoaster of Cowboy Yoh’s adventure. The theme song “Soul Salvation” is a standout which hooks you into the series aesthetic.

Recommendation

If you’re into supernatural anime with a good blend of action, adventure, drama, and a hint of comedy, Shaman King is definitely worth considering. The series explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and duty, resonating deeply with viewers. If you’re renting, buying, or streaming, Shaman King should be highly placed on your to-watch list, it promises an absolute visual treat and a captivating narrative.

Overall, get ready for a fantastic ride, packed with spiritual adventures, poignant moments, intense battles, and more. Shaman King offers not just superlative entertainment but also various elements to ponder upon. Be it the fleetingness of life, the bonds of friendship, or the existential insights to life, there’s something for everyone.

Shaman King
7.75 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Shaman King presents a vibrant and engaging plot with a unique blend of action and supernatural elements. The characters are well-rounded and develop as the series progresses, making the viewer invested in their journeys.
Cons
The anime Shaman King suffers from an inconsistent plot, often lacking depth in character development. Additionally, the animation quality is dated and may not be appealing to viewers used to more modern aesthetics.
Summary
In this review, the anime Shaman King is evaluated in depth, highlighting its immersive world filled with shamans, spirits, and riveting tournaments. This well-received reboot showcases fascinating character development, intricate plot twists, and visually stunning animation. The review dives into both the strengths and weaknesses of the show while emphasizing its enchanting blend of action, comedy, and spiritual themes.
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