Summer 2015
Akagami no Shirayuki-hime
BonesAlthough her name means "snow white," Shirayuki is a cheerful, red-haired girl living in the country of Tanbarun who works diligently as an apothecary at her herbal shop. Her life changes drastically when she is noticed by the silly prince of Tanbarun, Prince Raji, who then tries to force her to become his concubine. Unwilling to give up her freedom, Shirayuki cuts her long red hair and escapes into the forest, where she is rescued from Raji by Zen Wistalia, the second prince of a neighboring country, and his two aides. Hoping to repay her debt to the trio someday, Shirayuki sets her sights on pursuing a career as the court herbalist in Zen's country, Clarines.
Akagami no Shirayuki-hime depicts Shirayuki's journey toward a new life at the royal palace of Clarines, as well as Zen's endeavor to become a prince worthy of his title. As loyal friendships are forged and deadly enemies formed, Shirayuki and Zen slowly learn to support each other as they walk their own paths.
**Anime Review: Akagami no Shirayuki-hime**
Welcome back to the world of animated brilliance where new worlds are just a blink away. Today, we journey into the mesmerizing land of “Akagami no Shirayuki-hime,” also known as “Snow White with the Red Hair.” Grab your bento, settle in, and let’s enter the realm of fairy tales retold!
Akagami no Shirayuki-hime is a charming, deeply engaging and vividly animated story that drops all the clichés of damsel-in-distress and takes us through a refreshing tale. Set in the kingdom of Tanbarun, our heroine, Shirayuki, a bright, cheerful pharmacist with fiery red hair catches the eye of the foolish prince Raji. Seeking to escape becoming his concubine, she cuts her hair and flees into the forest. There she encounters Zen, the prince of the neighboring kingdom of Clarines. Bound by their unconventional meeting, Zen and Shirayuki develop a charming friendship that leads to boundless adventures, political intrigue, and a beautiful unfolding love story.
**Animation**
The animation in Akagami no Shirayuki-hime is nothing short of breathtaking. The vivid color scheme infuses life into the world of Shirayuki, making every frame a picturesque scene. The attention to detail is exquisite, bringing a somewhat fairy tale-like aesthetic that blends seamlessly with the realistic elements. The character designs are remarkable and animate fluidly, breathing life into each persona. If you’re a visual enthusiast, then streaming this series will fill your anime heart with utter joy.
**Character Development**
Akagami no Shirayuki-hime stands apart with its winning character development arc. Shirayuki is an empowered, hardworking character who decides her journey, marking a nice shift from the usual helpless princess stereotype. Zen, too, is an intriguing balance of swagger and humility, avoiding the overdone ‘macho’ prince trope. Their relationship unfolds organically, underlined by mutual respect, admiration, and equals, making for a heartwarming watch. The supporting characters are equally balanced, underlined by good character writing. A purchase for the fan of multi-faceted, evolving characters.
**Storyline**
The story is the crowning jewel of Akagami no Shirayuki-hime. It’s a simple tale, yet executed with such elegance and depth that it commands your attention. The political undercurrent gives it a sophisticated twist, while the sheer human element in the narrative makes the viewer emotionally invested. The pacing is excellent, and each episode leaves you wanting more. Rent if you love your animes filled with a good balance of romance, drama, comedy, and moments of profound wisdom.
**Conclusion**
All in all, Akagami no Shirayuki-hime is a remarkable blend of tradition and reinvention. It respects the fairy tale prism but molds a unique narrative through nuanced storytelling and compelling character arcs. Visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and intellectually satisfying, it is an experience not to be missed. Whether to stream, rent, or buy, the answer is a resounding yes!
Till the next world, this is The Anime Critic, bidding you happy watching!
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Charlotte
P.A. WorksIf not for his ability to take over people's mind and body, Yuu Otosaka would be an ordinary high school student. Though it only lasts for five seconds at a time, Yuu's mysterious power allowed him to cheat his way to the top of his class and enter a prestigious high school, where he continues his dishonest acts.
His shenanigans are eventually stopped by Nao Tomori—the headstrong student council president from Hoshinoumi Academy—who sees through his deceit. Through coercion, Nao convinces Yuu to transfer to Hoshinoumi and join the student council. Hoshinoumi Academy is secretly an institution created for adolescents who possess supernatural abilities—with the student council serving as a means of locating those who abuse their powers.
With Yuu begrudgingly assisting in council affairs, the group sets out to find and protect new ability users from harm. However, as they further investigate the abilities, their findings entangle them in far more complicated matters than they could ever imagine.
Synopsis:
Superpowers are a staple in the world of anime. But, get ready to change the way you perceive them forever with “Charlotte”, a multi-dimensional anime series that brings a unique twist on the genre. Set in an alternate reality where a small percentage of children manifest supernatural abilities upon reaching puberty, our protagonist Yuu Otosaka, discovers that he can temporarily possess others. However, rather than using his power for good, Yuu chooses to live a blissfully unremarkable high school existence, accumulating minor achievements through nefarious means.
The turn of events comes when a virtuous, albeit eccentric, girl named Nao Tomori, crosses paths with Yuu. Nao holds the serious power of invisibility and runs a student council for others like them. She discovers Yuu’s abilities and persuades him to transfer to Hoshinoumi Academy, where his life drastically changes. This transition is just the beginning of “Charlotte”, leading to unexpected friendships, powerful adversaries, and profound insights into the nature and purpose of their abilities.
Review:
Jumping right into “Charlotte”, it’s impossible not to be immediately taken with how much attention and detail have been poured into the characterization and development of Yuu Otosaka. The exploration of his abilities is not restricted to surface-level battles but delves into the psychological impact that such powers have on oneself and those around them. The way this anime handles these themes is both sensitive and gripping, and surely one of its standout features.
Stepping away from our protagonist, we have a strong cast of supporting characters that all play significant roles in the narrative. Nao Tomori, in particular, is a breath of fresh air in the anime scene. Her combination of strength, resolve, and sensitivity make her a dynamic and engaging character that you’ll be rooting for from start to finish.
The art and animation in “Charlotte” are breathtakingly beautiful. The character designs, along with the colorful and playful animation, perfectly blend the slice-of-life aesthetic with high-stakes supernatural drama. The audio complements the visuals seamlessly, enhancing emotional scenes making your heart pound during epic ones.
While “Charlotte” initially follows a format that seems episodic, it doesn’t take long before it evolves into a more complex, dramatic, and tightly woven narrative. The pacing accelerates exponentially as you progress, piling on plot twists and dramatic surprises that will keep you glued to your seat. However, the swift pace might slightly overwhelm, and some viewers might feel that certain sub-plots could have been explored deeper with a few more episodes in the season.
Coming to my verdict, whether you’re on the fence about streaming, buying, or renting, “Charlotte” is a must-watch. It’s a powerful testament to the potential and versatility of the anime genre, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling with its unique blend of drama, comedy, and supernatural themes. “Charlotte” is an emotional roller-coaster that will take you on a ride you won’t easily forget. You’ll laugh, cry, gasp, and come out of it with a newfound appreciation for the medium of anime.
Overall Score: 9/10
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Durarara!!x2 Ten
ShukaIn Ikebukuro, the lives of its citizens continue intertwining with each other as if their fates are predestined. Mikado Ryuugamine is now one step closer to his goal of living an exciting life, and in turn, delves deeper into the darker side of Ikebukuro. After gaining absolute control over a former rival, he uses his newfound power as he pleases, purging the Dollars from the inside to mold it into the ideal organization. This proves to be as challenging as it sounds as Mikado must now deal with unwanted outside interference, most notably a re-emerging and dearly missed friend. Meanwhile, Izaya Orihara still has some schemes up his sleeve, although a rival information exchange center has proven to be quite the hindrance, lurking within everyone's favorite downtown district. Undoubtedly, sooner or later, chaos will strike again.
Durarara!!x2 Ten Review
Set in the bustling cityscape of Tokyo’s Ikebukuro district, Durarara!!x2 Ten is the second arc of the second season of this compelling series. This story transports us back into the twisted, surreal world we’ve come to love, driven by a mysterious online gang called The Dollars. Our protagonist, high school student Ryugamine Mikado, continues his extraordinary daily life amongst Ikebukuro’s folkloric figures, connected through the internet and controlled by the faceless leader of The Dollars.
Durarara!!x2 Ten introduces a mix of new and old faces, each carrying their own ambitions, crushed dreams, and dangerous secrets. As ‘The Headless Rider’ romps through the streets of Ikebukuro on her motorcycle, gang wars erupt everywhere, and the urban legends of Ikebukuro come back to life. Everything is interrelated and strangely intriguing, pulling the viewer deeper into the complex world of Durarara!!x2 Ten.
Storyline and Themes
Continuing the narrative from Durarara!!x2 Shou, Durarara!!x2 Ten masterfully entwines separate storylines into one moving plot, whether it’s the turmoil within The Dollars, the floating urban legends, or the personal struggles of our beloved characters. The richness of the interconnected plots continues to be the heart and soul of the series, effectively engaging and entrancing viewers without fail.
Characters and Development
Where Durarara!!x2 Ten truly shines is in its masterful character development. The multifaceted characters, each with their own unique strengths, quirks, and weaknesses, are fleshed out even further in this arc. Mikado’s transformation from a timid suburban student to the mastermind behind The Dollars, Masaomi’s struggle between his violent, gang-affiliated past and his peaceful present, and Anri’s fight with her personal demons nested within Saika, every character is showcased in a new light.
Animation and Sound
The animation remains consistent with the previous series, bringing the ethereal and chaotic Ikebukuro to life with vibrant visuals and detailed urban background art. The thrilling soundtrack captures the series’ intense mood swings impeccably. From touching soft tunes to adrenaline-pumping beats during confrontational scenes, the soundscape of Durarara!!x2 Ten is truly immersive.
Final Verdict
Durarara!!x2 Ten is a mesmerizing continuation that brilliantly expands upon the mystical world of Ikebukuro, its eccentric inhabitants, and their entangled lives. With its exciting narrative, intricate characters, and stunning audio-visuals, it’s definitely worth your time whether you plan to rent, buy, or stream it. This is not just a series; it’s an experience that no anime fan should miss. Dive into the thrilling chaos of Ikebukuro!
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Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri
A-1 PicturesOff-duty Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) officer and otaku Youji Itami is on his way to attend a doujin convention in Ginza, Tokyo when a mysterious portal in the shape of a large gate suddenly appears. From this gate, supernatural creatures and warriors clad in medieval armor emerge, charging through the city, killing and destroying everything in their path. With swift actions, Youji saves as many lives as he can while the rest of the JSDF direct their efforts toward stopping the invasion.
Three months after the attack, Youji has been tasked with leading a special recon team, as part of a JSDF task force, that will be sent to the world beyond the gate—now being referred to as the "Special Region." They must travel into this unknown world in order to learn more about what they are dealing with and attempt to befriend the locals in hopes of creating peaceful ties with the ruling empire. But if they fail, they face the consequence of participating in a devastating war that will engulf both sides of the gate.
Story Synopsis
The story of “Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri”, revolves around the modern-day Japan suddenly being invaded by fantasy-world creatures, through a mysterious gate that appears out of nowhere in the middle of Ginza, Tokyo. The Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) take it upon themselves to put an end to this havoc, fighting a decisive battle with these mythical beasts, ultimately driving them away and establishing control over the gate.
The JSDF then sends a special research team, led by Youji Itami, a second lieutenant and self-proclaimed Otaku, to explore the uncharted world on the other side of the gate. Upon arrival, they discover a feudal society made up of several races – elves, dragons, mages and more. As Youji and his team navigate the politics, skirmishes, and cultural differences in this parallel universe, they also serve as diplomats for peace negotiation and cultural exchange between Japan and the new world.
Review
Being both an action and a fantasy fan, what really blew me away about “Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri”, is its unique premise. The sheer extravaganza of seeing modern-day military hardware go up against mythical beasts is something truly spectacular. Battles, sieges, exploration, diplomacy – it checks all the boxes for a captivating and thrilling experience.
However, the series doesn’t just stop at providing adrenaline-pumping action. It also dives into the politics and intriguing cultural differences that arise when the modern world collides with a medieval fantasy realm. It’s the examination of these cultural and ideological differences that sets this anime apart.
The characters here are charming, relatable and diverse. Youji Itami, our Otaku protagonist, is impressively multi-layered. His mix of military acumen and geeky love for fantasy captures the viewer’s attention and makes him a relatable character.
The animation quality is absolutely top-notch, and battle sequences are specifically well-executed. The soundtrack complements the narrative perfectly, enhancing the intensity and suspense in the fight scenes while also capturing the calmer moments of peace and exploration beautifully.
Overall, the blend of fantasy and modern combat in “Gate” is served in a well-thought-out and engaging package. The occasional eccentricities of the show only add to its charm, providing moments of humor that make this title even more enjoyable to watch. So, should you rent, buy, or stream this anime series? Considering the stunning animation, intriguing characters, thrilling plot, and insightful cultural discourse it provides, ‘Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri’ is absolutely worth investing your time and money in.
So grab your otaku gear and jump into the gate for an extraordinary adventure! Who knows? You might never want to come back.
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Non Non Biyori Repeat
SILVER LINK.Far from the hustle and bustle of urban life, and with only a single candy store and bus route to its name, the rural Asahigaoka is certainly not a place for everyone. Nevertheless, the village's children still manage to cheerfully spend their days exploring and having fun in the wilderness around them. One such child, Renge Miyauchi, the youngest of the group, looks forward to the entrance ceremony of the upcoming school year, signalling her entry into first grade and the beginning of her elementary school life. Attending the only school in town, Renge and her friends, seventh grader Natsumi Koshigaya and her eighth grade sister Komari, make the most out of their rural lifestyle, playing and studying everyday.
Meanwhile, fifth grader Hotaru Ichijou has just moved to Asahigaoka from Tokyo, unaware of the numerous adventures and memories that await her.
Non Non Biyori Repeat: A touch of rural simplicity in a fast-paced world
Non Non Biyori Repeat is the tender tale of four young girls living in the serene Asahigaoka, a small, rural village that is frozen in its simplicity, far from the bustling city life. Renge, the youngest and perhaps the most eccentric; Natsumi, the mischievous one; Komari, the eldest of the lot striving to act mature; Hotaru, the newcomer from Tokyo, find solace in each other’s company in a place devoid of modern luxuries, but abundant in nature’s bounty.
The series, a continuation of the original Non Non Biyori, portrays the heartwarming adaptation of Hotaru to this new rural setting while encapsulating the emotions and daily shenanigans of these girls through the changing seasons. The simplistic life of Asahigaoka indulges the girls in different activities from catching beetles to experimenting with cooking, presenting a refreshing outlook on the joy hidden in lifestyle of rural rusticity.
The Critic’s Take:
“Non Non Biyori Repeat” is a tale that ropes in your heart with its simplicity and warmth. It is a rare gem that proves you don’t always need action-filled plots and complex storylines to keep an audience hooked. A huge shout out to the creators for breathing life into the show with gorgeous animation that complemented the story every step of the way.
The character development is commendable. They grow on you, making their happiness yours and their dilemmas something you want to solve. The voice acting is absolutely on point, breathing depth and realism into the characters, making them unforgettable.
However, what truly takes the cake is the stunning depiction of nature. The animation team has meticulously crafted each scene to emphasize the beauty of the rural landscape. As the seasons change, different hues spread across the screen, making you feel like you’re right there experiencing every cherry blossom fall, every cool summer breeze.
Should You Watch it?
Absolutely! Non Non Biyori Repeat drapes the chaotic complexity of life with a serene blanket, showcasing diverse yet relatable characters and situations. If you’re looking for drama, this might not be your cup of tea. But, if you want something that takes you on a calming, joy-filled journey, this definitely deserves a spot in your ‘must-watch’ list.
Whether you choose to rent, buy, or stream, Non Non Biyori Repeat is an investment you’ll never regret. It’s not just another anime series; it’s a comforting experience that brings us closer to the essence of simplicity and the often ignored charm of rural life. So, clock in some down-time, grab some comfort food, and get ready to travel to Asahigaoka village with Non Non Biyori Repeat.
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Prison School
J.C.StaffLocated on the outskirts of Tokyo, Hachimitsu Private Academy is a prestigious all-girls boarding school, famous for its high-quality education and disciplined students. However, this is all about to change due to the revision of the school's most iconic policy, as boys are now able to enroll as well.
At the start of the first semester under this new decree, a mere five boys have been accepted, effectively splitting the student body into a ratio of two hundred girls to one boy. Kiyoshi, Gakuto, Shingo, Andre, and Jo are quickly cast away without having a chance to make any kind of a first impression. Unable to communicate with their fellow female students, the eager boys set their sights on a far more dangerous task: peeping into the girls' bath!
It is only after their plan is thoroughly decimated by the infamous Underground Student Council that the motley crew find their freedom abruptly taken from them, as they are thrown into the school's prison with the sentence of an entire month as punishment. Thus begins the tale of the boys' harsh lives in Prison School, a righteous struggle that will ultimately test the bonds of friendship and perverted brotherhood.
Anime Review: Prison School
Synopsis:
Prison School is a thrilling and uproariously funny anime series that centers around Hachimitsu Academy, an elite all-girls boarding school that has recently become co-ed. The story follows five male students, Kiyoshi, Gakuto, Shingo, Andre, and Jo, who are the first boys to enroll in the academy. However, their dreams of a high school paradise quickly turn into a nightmare when they are caught peeping in the girls’ bathroom and subsequently sentenced to a hellish life in the school’s underground prison.
As the boys struggle to survive in this strict and unforgiving environment, they are faced with numerous challenges, both physical and emotional. With strict surveillance, sadistic prison guards, and a plot to expose the boys’ misdeeds, Prison School takes viewers on a wild and often hilarious ride filled with unexpected twists and turns.
Review:
When it comes to comedies in the anime world, few can match the level of insanity and hilarity achieved in Prison School. This unconventional series employs a unique blend of ecchi humor, slapstick comedy, and clever storytelling to create an experience that is equal parts absurd and entertaining.
One of the standout aspects of Prison School is its characters. Each member of the main cast is incredibly distinct, with their own quirks and personalities that add to the overall charm of the series. Kiyoshi, the protagonist, is the most rational and level-headed of the group, providing a relatable anchor amidst the chaos. Gakuto, on the other hand, is a hilarious and passionate character whose obsession with the principles of honor and loyalty makes for some memorable comedic moments.
The story itself is structured in a way that keeps viewers on their toes. Just when you think you have the plot figured out, Prison School throws a curveball that turns everything upside down. This element of surprise adds an exciting and unpredictable dynamic to the series, keeping audiences engaged and eager to see what will happen next.
What truly sets Prison School apart, however, is its ability to balance its outrageous humor with genuine moments of emotion and character development. While the anime may initially appear to be nothing more than a raunchy comedy, it delves into deeper themes of friendship, trust, and the importance of true connection. Through unexpected bonds and surprising revelations, the series manages to strike a satisfying balance between its comedic and heartfelt moments.
Visually, Prison School is impressive, with vibrant and detailed animation that brings the characters and their surroundings to life. The exaggerated and over-the-top facial expressions perfectly capture the essence of the comedic moments, further enhancing the overall comedic experience.
In summary, Prison School is a must-watch for fans of comedy anime. Its outrageous humor, engaging storyline, and well-developed characters combine to create a series that will leave you laughing out loud and invested in the fate of its protagonists. Whether you choose to stream or buy, Prison School is an anime that deserves a place in any anime lover’s collection.
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Working!!!
A-1 PicturesAs the stories of those connected to Wagnaria come to a close, only one thing is certain: the workplace is about to get crazier than ever before! Whether it be incredibly awkward romances, relentless searches for lost relatives, or even uncomfortable family reunions, lover of all things cute and tiny Souta Takanashi and his motley crew have plenty on their plates. With more Napoleon complexes, androphobia, and katana-wielding than you can shake a frying pan at, Working!!! delivers a final serving of the staff's hilarious misadventures working at everybody's favorite family restaurant.
A Review of the Anime: Working!!!
Hello folks! I’m The Anime Critic and today we’ll be discussing the delightful anime series, ‘Working!!!’, also known as ‘Wagnaria!!’. This slice-of-life anime with a pinch of romantic-comedy in the mix will capture your heart as you invest time in its world.
‘Working!!!’, set in ‘Wagnaria’, a humble family restaurant located in the Hokkaido Prefecture of Japan, spins a fascinating tale of diverse, quirky characters, each with their unique eccentricities. The anime primarily follows Souta Takanashi, a high school student unwillingly working at the restaurant due to his fondness for cute things, instantly roped in on seeing Popura Taneshima, a petite senior employee. The anime cast thickens with a plethora of interesting personalities breathing life into ‘Wagnaria’, eventually setting up an endearing, engaging narrative.
Concept and Execution
‘Working!!!’ intelligently weaves hilarious incidents occurring in the restaurant, as characters interlock, persistently light-hearted, steering clear of outrageous slapstick comedy. The charm lies in the cohesive setup, exhibiting individual narratives marvellously entwined, making up the overarching plot. Experiencing these unique characters’ lives makes viewers feel a part of the Wagnaria team, a testament to the anime’s excellent storytelling. If you’re seeking uncontrollable laughter interspersed with touching moments, ‘Working!!!’ will exceed your expectations.
Art, Animation and Sound
‘Working!!!’ presents appealing visual aesthetics with clean lines, bright palette and intricate detailing. The character designs are distinct, reflecting their individual quirks, upgrading the viewing pleasure. Animation-wise it’s smoothly done, particularly focusing on characters’ comedic expressions, coming off as visually engaging. It carries a solid sound department, creating an immersive experience. The lively opening theme ‘Somebody Else’ by Kana Asumi, Saki Fujita, and Eri Kitamura sets an upbeat, cheerful tempo straightaway.
Should You Watch It?
‘Working!!!’ comes off as a sweet, simple anime, but it’s far from mundane. It’s more like an adventurous roller coaster ride where you get to laugh and bond with the characters as the storyline unfolds. If you appreciate high-quality storylines with brilliant character development and interactions infused with a refreshingly humorous approach, then ‘Working!!!’ should be on your list. It’s ideal for streaming over a weekend, shared with friends or family, exemplifying that life’s joy often lies within simple, everyday nuances.
‘Working!!!’, while revolving around a seemingly unremarkable slice of life, packs potent messages subtly. It’s a perfect example of an anime where humor serves the narrative, rather than being an erratic supplement. If you’re yet to imbibe the spirit of ‘Wagnaria’, now’s your time! Happy viewing!
Final Verdict
‘Working!!!’ is not just another restaurant-themed anime but a pleasing ensemble of delightful characters, witty humor, and soul-stirring moments. Endearing, engaging, and effortlessly enjoyable, it’s a must watch on your anime list. So, whether you rent, buy, or stream – I highly recommend stepping into ‘Working!!!’s’ whimsical world. You’re in for a delightful treat of laughter, tears, and subtle romance hidden amidst daily life’s chaos!
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