Summer 2011

Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni!
SILVER LINK.The blockheads of Class F return with more misadventures! Rather than desperately competing against the elite students in Class A for better facilities, they have other problems at hand. While the girls are constantly vying for the boys' attention, Akihisa Yoshii and Yuuji Sakamoto are being blackmailed by a stalker who threatens to reveal their most embarrassing secrets to the whole school. Moreover, everyone's avatar starts to behave strangely.
Filled with more nosebleeds and eye-pokes, the boys of Class F must work together to discover the stalker's identity and deal with the misfortunes that come with love among fools.
Hello Anime Fans!
Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni! – The Ultimate Class Wars Unleashed!
Here we go Anime lovers, one more time! Our destination – Fumizuki Academy, where the classes are divided based on academic results. As a battle-savvy Anime guru, I dove headfirst into one of the most popular comedy and action-packed anime shows – Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni! So, is this show a genius or a complete baka (fool in Japanese)? Alright, no spoilers but fasten your seat belts for a fun and wild ride!
Story Synopsis
Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni! takes us to a unique high school, Fumizuki Academy, where students are segregated into classes A to F based on their academic abilities. Our protagonist, Akihisa Yoshii, lands in the notorious Class F. In this unusual school, the students can summon “Beings” who represent their academic performance, and in the battle of academics, ceasing the facilities of the top classes becomes the Class F’s ultimate goal.
Delivering comedic wonders with plenty of twists and turns, romance, and a plot that fuels character development, Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni! creates an interesting balance between humor and action. With the possibility of upgrading their lifestyle at stake, the members of Class F take on the better-equipped classes in some of the most amusing battles you will see!
Review
Masterfully balancing comedy with moments of tension, Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni! keeps you engaged with its unique storyline and characters. As an Anime Critic, the visual appeal of anime is crucial, and Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni! shines in its department with vibrant colors and fluid animation.
The characters are one of its strongest points, all possessing individual quirks and attributes that make them interesting and identifiable. From Yoshii’s foolish endeavors to Himeji’s unrequited love for Yoshii and the conniving Hideyoshi’s charm, the show offers a laugh riot through its character presentation and interaction.
As much as the comedy and the animation won my heart, this anime isn’t without its shortcomings. The overarching plot may seem obscured at times under the layers of tomfoolery and absurdity. However, it’s this absurdity that underlines the primary intention of this anime – to render pure comedy and entertainment, despite the occasional overshadowing of the plot.
Final Verdict
In the grand scheme, Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni! is a delightful mix of comedy, action, and traces of romance that brings a fresh breath to the anime world. A must-watch if you seek hearty laughter to lighten the day. On the Anime Critic scale, Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni! gets a healthy 8.5/10. Dig in my friends, this treat is best savored streaming!
Don’t forget to join me next time when we dive into yet another Japanese realm of manga and anime. Until then, sayonara!
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Mawaru Penguindrum
Brain's BaseFor the Takakura family, destiny is an ever-spinning wheel, pointing passionately in their direction with equal tides of joy and sorrow before ticking on to the next wishmaker. With their parents gone, twin brothers Kanba and Shouma live alone with their beloved little sister Himari, whose poor health cannot decline any further.
On the day Himari is given permission to temporarily leave the hospital, her brothers take her out to the aquarium to celebrate, where the family's supposed fate is brought forth with her sudden collapse. However, when Himari is inexplicably revived by a penguin hat from the aquarium's souvenir shop, the hand of fate continues to tick faithfully forward.
With her miraculous recovery, though, comes a cost: there is a new entity within her body, whose condition for keeping her fate at bay sends the boys on a wild goose chase for the mysterious "Penguin Drum." In their search, the boys will have to follow the threads of fate leading from their own shocking past and into the lives of other wishmakers vying for the Penguin Drum, all hoping to land upon their chosen destiny.
Introduction and Synopsis
Hey, what is up everybody? This is your favorite anime geek, “The Anime Critic”, doling out yet another compelling review to satisfy your daily anime and manga cravings. Today’s showstopper comes from the vault of confusing yet buzzing titles that have shaken the anime-verse. Ladies and Gents, I present you with the rollercoaster of emotions known as Mawaru Penguindrum!
The anime revolves around three siblings – Kanba, Shoma, and the terminally ill Himari Takakru. One day, after a visit to the aquarium, tragedy strikes as Himari collapses. Just when all hope seems lost, a spirit residing in a penguin hat that the boys had bought as a souvenir revives her. Life takes a major twist for our protagonists as they now must find an object known as the Penguindrum under the bidding of the said spirit. The Penguindrum is supposed to extend Himari’s life, giving the young brothers a beacon of hope. But as is always the case, nothing comes free in this world.
Review
Mawaru Penguindrum isn’t just an anime; it is a complex work of art. The show skillfully uses symbolism and in-depth character development with a consistently evolving story that’ll have you hooked. The narrative takes you for a loop, making you question what the real Penguindrum might be. The plot’s slow and detailed reveal does a fantastic job at keeping the mystery alive.
The characters in Mawaru Penguindrum are a masterclass of rich storytelling. Kanba, Shoma, and Himari are not just your typical anime characters; they have depth to them, each carrying a load of emotional baggage which gets unpacked layer by layer with each episode. The introduction of the spirit brings a welcome fantastical element to the otherwise real-world storyline.
Additionally, the ever-present penguins, apart from being adorable, add an essential comedic light-heartedness, providing moments of laughter within the labyrinthine plotline. Their relation to each character is unique and underlines the anime’s mastery in maintaining balance between serious and comedic moments.
The art and animation in Mawaru Penguindrum are eye-catching. It has a unique style that mixes absurd and surreal animation with real-world settings, creating a nonpareil tapestry of visuals. Moreover, the soundtrack perfectly complements the anime’s varying moods, making you appreciate the artistry on display even more.
In conclusion, Mawaru Penguindrum is a wild ride, full of ups and downs. If you are looking for an anime that challenges you and leaves you pondering over its storyline long after you’ve finished watching it, this is the one for you! It can be a bit intense at times but rest assured, it’s a beautiful journey that makes each moment worth it. Grab your streaming subscriptions now, and don’t miss out on this marvelous anime experience! Until next time, this is The Anime Critic, signing off!
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Natsume Yuujinchou San
Brain's BaseNatsume Yuujinchou San follows Takashi Natsume, a boy who is able to see youkai. Natsume and his bodyguard Madara, nicknamed Nyanko-sensei, continue on their quest to release youkai from their contracts in the "Book of Friends."
Natsume comes to terms with his ability to see youkai and stops thinking of it as a curse. As he spends more time with his human and youkai friends, he realizes how much he values them both and decides he doesn't have to choose between the spirit and human worlds to be happy.
Synopsis: The Enchanting World of Natsume Yuujinchou San
Natsume Yuujinchou San, the third installment of this magical and traditionally Japanese undertaking, continues the adventures of Takashi Natsume. As the protagonist armed with the ability to interact with supernatural creatures called ‘yokai’, Takashi has been endowed with the ‘Book of Friends’, a cherished journal left by his late grandmother Reiko. This coveted book holds the names of numerous yokai, giving the wielder control over them, and thereby makes Takashi a target.
His mission? Takashi decides to give back the names traffic-ked by his grandmother, mending the past’s broken ties and satisfying yokai. However, it’s no walk in the park; the narrative is rife with lurking dangers, unexpected camaraderie, and heartwarming encounters, painting a vivid tapestry of an unusual life interspersed with regular bouts of teenage school angst and supernatural hurdles. This contrasting reality knits together a truly captivating watch.
The Anime Critic’s Review: Dive Into The Delicate Balance of Natsume Yuujinchou San
Natsume Yuujinchou San brings forth a rich palette of emotions, deep character development, engaging narrative, and stunning visuals to offer a hearty watch for anime aficionados. Its most impressive element is certainly the character progressions. Our protagonist Takashi Natsume is seen wrestling his internal demons, juggling the intricacies of his human friends while attempting to protect them from his yokai world.
The Power of Subtlety
Where Natsume Yuujinchou San truly shines is how subtly it conveys significant themes such as loneliness, obligations, forgiving the past, and the desire for companionship. It strays from flamboyant action and opts for leaving a lingering imprint through calm, beautiful portrayals of universal sentiments. It tugs at your heartstrings, piques your curiosity, and warms your very soul, all while you’re wrapped in the charm of Japanese folklore.
Vibrant Visuals and Soothing Soundtracks
Visually, the anime doesn’t falter either. With its vibrant, calming color palette and illustratively intricate character designs, it manages to captivate the viewer. The ethereal soundtracks that slide smoothly into the narrative enhance the overall anime experience. They get you laughing, crying, and rooting for the characters, making it an emotionally immersive journey.
Final Verdict: A Must For Your Anime Library
In conclusion, Natsume Yuujinchou San executes its storyline in a commendably graceful way, leaving its viewers longing for more. The series’ touching interpretation of a symbiosis between the human and the supernatural world marks it as a jewel in the anime world.
So, should you rent, buy, or stream this anime? Well, for all of you seeking a tranquil, yet emotionally charged slice of life anime, I strongly recommend adding this gem to your personal anime library. Buy it, and you’d be cherishing an exquisite blend of enchanting folklore, heartwarming storytelling, and some of the best character development in anime history.
This anime is an investment, giving you insights, laughter, a roller-coaster of emotions, and hey, a bit of Japanese traditional culture along the way! Watch it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.
Overall Rating: A Striking 9/10
Discover the wonder of Natsume Yuujinchou San, my fellow anime lovers. It’s a journey you will not regret.
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Nurarihyon no Mago: Sennen Makyou
Studio DeenLong before Rikuo Nura was born, the legendary youkai Nurarihyon, leader of a "Night Parade of One Hundred Demons," fell in love with a human woman. Though the two would initially find happiness, a threat from the terrifying fox-demon Hagoromo Gitsune would get in the way of their relationship.
In the present, Rikuo has taken his rightful place as the heir to the Nura Clan. While he has accepted his youkai side, he must continue to maintain the secret of youkai, a difficult task when faced with the Keikain onmyouji clan and his youkai-obsessed friend, Kiyotsugu. Even so, Rikuo will do what he must to protect those important to him.
The reappearance of the sinister Hagoromo Gitsune marks the start of Rikuo's most fearsome trial yet. The frightening creature bears a personal vendetta against his family and will stop at nothing to see her dream come to fruition. The world stands at a precipice, an all-out war that will drag Rikuo centerstage.
Nurarihyon no Mago: Sennen Makyou – Story Synopsis
In the rich tapestry of the Yokai realm, we follow the story of Rikuo Nura, a part-human, part-yokai (supernatural creature) heir to the Nura Clan. He struggles with his dual heritage, oscillating between the ordinary life of a human during the day and the leader of a yokai faction at night. This is the unique charm of “Nurarihyon no Mago: Sennen Makyou”. The plot takes a significant leap forward in terms of depth in this sequel, giving fans and new viewers an adventurous ride.
In the second season, viewers are taken deeper into the Nura Clan’s history. We uncover the roots of hatred among yokai factions and witness the series dive deep into the longstanding rivalry with the antagonist group, the Hundred Stories Clan. Against this backdrop, Rikuo strives to reconcile his dual identity while coming to terms with the responsibilities that his lineage has thrust upon him.
Review of Nurarihyon no Mago: Sennen Makyou
“Nurarihyon no Mago: Sennen Makyou” is a beautifully animated series that ties in traditional Japanese folklore with a touch of modern sensibility. For fans of Japanese culture and mythology, “Nurarihyon no Mago: Sennen Makyou” hits the nail right on the head.
The storytelling is mature, carefully balancing facets of humour, emotion, and some spectacularly choreographed battle sequences. The anime goes beyond just being visually stunning, it delves into age-old dilemmas of identity and responsibility, making Rikuo’s character not just relatable, but deeply intriguing.
The animation and art style remain a visual treat, the character designs express individuality and charm that is unique to the series. The backgrounds stand as a narrative themselves, infusing elements of Japanese culture in their intricate details.
In terms of voice acting and music, the cast has done an excellent job in bringing the characters to life. The choice of voice actors excellently websites the struggle in the characters and the varying dynamic between them. The soundtrack of the series is impressive too, where both the OPs and EDs blend nicely with the overall ambiance and feel of the anime, underlining the narrative’s tension or lighter moments as the scene may demand.
The second season of “Nurarihyon no Mago” transcends the potential exhibited in the first season and evolves into a tapestry of storytelling that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. If you loved the first season or you have an interest in Japanese folklore and mythology, this is most certainly a series to rent, buy, or stream as it will be an experience worth your time.
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The iDOLM@STER
A-1 Pictures765 Production Studio manages the unique talents of 13 professional idols as they slowly make their way to the top and become country-wide celebrities. But the girls' journey is far from just fun and games: hard work, sweat, and tears are some of the prerequisites needed to flourish in this industry—and for 765 Pro in particular, a watchful eye out for their rival, the infamous 961 Production.
As the girls' fame grows, however, their time together as a family diminishes, and now the very popularity they sought is threatening to tear them apart. A difficult balance of work and bonding must be achieved, or they risk everyone going their separate ways. The personal and professional ordeals of these idols can not be conquered alone, but with each other's loving support, any obstacle or hardship can be overcome!
The iDOLM@STER: A Harmonious Blend of Music and Friendship
The iDOLM@STER is a captivating anime that takes us on a delightful journey into the world of aspiring idols. As an avid fan of the idol genre, I was ecstatic to delve into this series, and boy, did it exceed my expectations! Created by A-1 Pictures, the same studio behind other renowned shows like Sword Art Online and Anohana, this 25-episode anime is a treat for both the eyes and the ears.
Set in the bustling city of Tokyo, The iDOLM@STER follows a group of girls who dream of becoming successful idols and dominating the music industry. Our main protagonist, Haruka Amami, is an optimistic and determined girl who joins the famous talent agency, 765 Production. Alongside her fellow idol hopefuls, she embarks on a rollercoaster ride of auditions, performances, and heartwarming friendships.
This anime seamlessly blends music, drama, and comedy to create a truly immersive experience. It beautifully captures the challenges faced by these aspiring idols, while also exploring their personal growth and dreams. With its vibrant animation and catchy soundtrack, The iDOLM@STER manages to strike a perfect balance between entertainment and inspiration.
The Characters: A Diverse and Lovable Cast
One of the highlights of The iDOLM@STER is its diverse and lovable cast of characters. Each idol has her own distinct personality and backstory, which adds depth to the overall narrative. From the shy and reserved Yukiho Hagiwara to the bold and energetic Miki Hoshii, every character brings a unique flavor to the show.
Not only do the characters shine individually, but their interactions and camaraderie are truly heartwarming. The bond that develops among the members of 765 Production is at the core of this anime. It’s a joy to witness how they support each other, overcome hurdles, and grow both as idols and as friends. The character development in The iDOLM@STER is executed flawlessly, making you feel emotionally connected to each and every one of them.
The Music: A Melodious Medley
As expected from an anime centered around idols, the music in The iDOLM@STER is an absolute delight. From upbeat pop tunes to soul-stirring ballads, the soundtrack offers a melodic medley that will have you tapping your feet and humming along. The catchy opening theme, “READY!!,” perfectly sets the tone for the series and gets you eagerly anticipating each episode.
What impressed me the most was the attention to detail in the performances. The animation during the idol concerts is visually stunning, with vibrant colors and smooth choreography. The well-produced performances, coupled with the fantastic voice acting, truly make you feel like you are witnessing a real idol group in action.
The Story: Endearing and Empowering
Beyond the glitz and glamour, The iDOLM@STER showcases a wonderful story filled with heart, determination, and the pursuit of dreams. Each episode presents a new challenge for our idols, be it overcoming stage fright or dealing with personal struggles. But what truly sets this anime apart is its ability to blend these challenges with a strong sense of optimism and resilience.
The iDOLM@STER makes it clear that achieving one’s dreams requires hard work, dedication, and a tight-knit support system. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork and shows that success is not achieved easily, but through continuous growth and learning from failures. This anime is a powerful reminder that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.
Should You Watch The iDOLM@STER?
If you are a fan of music, character-driven stories, and a healthy dose of laughter and tears, then The iDOLM@STER is an absolute must-watch. Its engaging plot, lovable characters, and exceptional music make it a true gem in the idol anime genre.
Whether you’re a seasoned idol fan or a newcomer to the genre, The iDOLM@STER will undoubtedly leave you with a smile on your face and a strong desire to pursue your own dreams. So, grab some popcorn, turn up the volume, and immerse yourself in the harmonious world of The iDOLM@STER!
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Usagi Drop
Production I.GDaikichi Kawachi is a 30-year-old bachelor working a respectable job but otherwise wandering aimlessly through life. When his grandfather suddenly passes away, he returns to the family home to pay his respects. Upon arriving at the house, he meets a mysterious young girl named Rin who, to Daikichi’s astonishment, is his grandfather's illegitimate daughter!
The shy and unapproachable girl is deemed an embarrassment to the family, and finds herself ostracized by her father's relatives, all of them refusing to take care of her in the wake of his death. Daikichi, angered by their coldness toward Rin, announces that he will take her in—despite the fact that he is a young, single man with no prior childcare experience.
Usagi Drop is the story of Daikichi's journey through fatherhood as he raises Rin with his gentle and affectionate nature, as well as an exploration of the warmth and interdependence that are at the heart of a happy, close-knit family.
Usagi Drop: Story Synopsis
Usagi Drop, known as Bunny Drop in English, is a heartwarming story that breaks free from traditional tropes, delivering a magnificent blend of realism and sentiment. It tells the tale of 30-year-old bachelor, Daikichi, who stumbles upon Rin, the illegitimate six-year-old daughter of his late grandfather, during his grandfather’s funeral. When Rin is ostracized by their unforgiving family, Daikichi stands up to responsibility, decides to adopt her, and embarks on the unexpected journey of parenthood.
Underneath the everyday semblance of life, Daikichi and Rin’s relationship grows into a profound exploration of love, familial ties, and the lessons passed between generations. Whether it’s nurturing Rin, helping with her school work or coming to terms with the challenges of child-rearing, Daikichi’s life changes forever, taking viewers through a relatable and emotive narrative of parenthood and innocent charm of childhood.
A Profound Dive into Unconventional Parenting: Usagi Drop Review
Redefining the boundaries of traditionalism, Usagi Drop stands as a magnificent ode to unconventional parenting. With heart-touching subtleness, this anime delves into the intricate nuances of adopting and rearing a child from a very fresh perspective. You witness Daikichi’s evolution from a carefree bachelor to a responsible parent while nurturing Rin, an illegitimate child nobody else wants to take responsibility for.
The anime’s art style embraces a soft, comforting palette that perfectly encapsulates the narrative’s warmth. Each frame compliments the story’s mood without overshadowing the poignant depth of the narrative. Simplicity rules here, but don’t mistake it for mediocrity. The minimalistic approach, far removed from usual anime action aesthetics, breathes life into its everyday drama and makes it stand out with a unique charm.
Captivating Character Arcs
Daikichi’s transformation over the series teems with sincerity. His growth feels organic, rather than forced, which offers a striking glimpse into the transformative power of parenthood. Rin, on the other hand, adorned with sheer childlike simplicity, represents an authentic portrayal of a child who doesn’t feel like a usual anime character, rather she seems more like a real-life kid.
Equally impressive is the chemistry between Daikichi and Rin. Their relationship, deeply emotional yet devoid of any clichéd sentimentality, forms the core of Usagi Drop. The series pulls off their bond elegantly, keeping it heartwarming, believable and thoroughly engaging.
An Emotional Ride Worth the Time
Usagi Drop, through its intricacies and simplified storytelling, is an incredibly gratifying watch. This slice-of-life anime calmly peels back layers of genuine emotion, quietly echoing the substance and depth hidden in our everyday existence.
Is it worth considering to buy, rent, or stream? Let’s make it simple – if you appreciate anime focussing on the emotional depth of characters and seamless storytelling, Usagi Drop is definitely an ideal pick. This emotionally charged and beautifully portrayed story is compelling enough to rent, captivating enough to own, and simple enough to stream.
Usagi Drop illuminates the average, the everyday, and the overlooked aspects of life, transforming them into a poetic piece set in motion. It’s a sincere account of parenting told with heartfelt resonance that leaves an everlasting impression on viewers. An absolute must-watch!
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