Summer 2017
Ballroom e Youkoso
Production I.GTatara Fujita is a shy middle schooler who has no particular plan for the future. He has gotten through life by avoiding any kind of confrontation and blending in with the crowd. But blending in isn't enough to get out of trouble, as some bullies harass him for money. Luckily, he is saved by a man named Kaname Sengoku.
Kaname invites Tatara to his dance studio. Although he would normally never set foot in such a place, Tatara is captivated by Sengoku's commanding presence. Granted an opportunity to dance with fellow classmate Shizuku Hanaoka—who often practices at the studio—Tatara realizes there's something about the idea of being put in the limelight and dancing where people will see him that keeps him coming back. With an earnest, passionate drive to improve, Tatara begins his journey into the world of competitive dance.
SYNOPSIS
“Ballroom e Youkoso”, or “Welcome to the Ballroom”, is a riveting excursion into the world of competitive dance. Our humble protagonist, Tatara Fujita, is a directionless middle school student, trapped in the monotony of life, craving for a purpose. Seeing an inspiring couple performing dance in a video, fills a fiery passion within him, sparking his journey into the realm of dynamic dance form of Ballroom – a place he’s never even dreamed of.
The anthology chronicles Fujita’s de novó journey from being an amateur to a professional dancer. He battles various hurdles like honing his technical skills, understanding the essence of Ballroom, establishing chemistry with partners, facing robust competitors and dealing with his lack of self-confidence. It’s invigorating to watch Fujita dancing by the rhythm of his heart, as his feet amusingly tango to the beat of life.
REVIEW
As “The Anime Critic”, I urge every anime enthusiast to dive into the enchanting world of “Ballroom e Youkoso”. It strikingly stands apart in the ocean of Shonen sports anime, replacing the predictable trope of ball/bat sports with the finesse of Ballroom dance.
The animation by Production I.G is beautifully executed. From the detailed character designs to the vibrant palettes that splash across the screen, every movement captured exudes rhythm and elevates the mood of the scene.
The character development in this anime is splendidly rich. Fujita grows as a character, his insecurities and confidence issues valued and woven into his journey as a dancer, making him relatable. He isn’t alone in this journey; his peers and rivals, each with their unique personality, contribute to the narrative, reflecting a diverse spectrum of the human spirit on this competitive stage.
The storyline, although revolving around ballroom dance – a niche topic – manages to captivate with its compelling plot coupled with a dose of humor. Triumphs and setbacks are beautifully portrayed, keeping you hooked for its runtime. The dance sequences are a visual spectacle, showcasing not only the physical strength but the emotional depth that propagates through the dance.
The music score is a masterpiece, reflecting the emotional undercurrents of the scenes, leaving the audience visibly enthralled. Toe-tapping melodies sugarcoat the thrill of the competition while soulful composition augments emotional scenes, connecting the audience to the characters on a deeper level.
CONCLUSION
“Ballroom e Youkoso” is far more than a ‘sports anime’; it’s a symphony of passion, character development, stunning visuals, compelling plot lines, high-spirited competition, and heartful music. Whether you rent, buy, or stream, this anime is worth every second and is unquestionably an experience you wouldn’t want to miss. Trust this “Anime Critic” — let “Ballroom e Youkoso” waltz you into its mesmerizing world of dance.
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Made in Abyss
Kinema CitrusThe Abyss—a gaping chasm stretching down into the depths of the earth, filled with mysterious creatures and relics from a time long past. How did it come to be? What lies at the bottom? Countless brave individuals, known as Divers, have sought to solve these mysteries of the Abyss, fearlessly descending into its darkest realms. The best and bravest of the Divers, the White Whistles, are hailed as legends by those who remain on the surface.
Riko, daughter of the missing White Whistle Lyza the Annihilator, aspires to become like her mother and explore the furthest reaches of the Abyss. However, just a novice Red Whistle herself, she is only permitted to roam its most upper layer. Even so, Riko has a chance encounter with a mysterious robot with the appearance of an ordinary young boy. She comes to name him Reg, and he has no recollection of the events preceding his discovery. Certain that the technology to create Reg must come from deep within the Abyss, the two decide to venture forth into the chasm to recover his memories and see the bottom of the great pit with their own eyes. However, they know not of the harsh reality that is the true existence of the Abyss.
Hello, fellow anime enthusiasts! It’s your trusted Anime Critic, here with another detailed review that promises a roller-coaster ride through complex story-lines, in-depth character analyses and everything you need to know to decide whether to stream, rent or buy. Today, we’re plunging into the chasms of a mysterious world with the anime: Made in Abyss.
The captivating story of Made in Abyss revolves around a young and determined girl named Riko, who lives in Orth, a city built around a massive, seemingly bottomless pit known as the Abyss. No one knows what lies at the bottom, but the Abyss is teeming with mysterious creatures and valuable relics from a long-lost civilization. Despite its wonders, the Abyss is hazardous, taking a toll on the health and sanity of those who dare to explore its depths. Adventurers, called Divers, are categorized by how deep they’re able to venture into this perilous underworld.
When Riko finds a robot boy called Reg in the Abyss, her life takes a dramatic turn. Encouraged by a letter she believes to be from her mother — a legendary diver who vanished in the Abyss — Riko and Reg begin a treacherous journey into the depths, hoping to reunite with her mother, uncover the truths about the Abyss, and discover who (or what) Reg really is.
Storyline and Plot
At its heart, Made in Abyss is a tale of adventure and friendship that beautifully balances the darkness of its world with the innocence and hope of its protagonists. The narrative is well-paced and brilliantly crafted, carefully introducing the characters and the world before plunging into the excitement and horrors of the Abyss. Some aspects of this anime can be emotionally heavy and touch on mature themes, making it a series better suited for more mature audiences, despite its deceptively child-like visuals and characters.
Animation and Artwork
The animation of Made in Abyss is spectacular, replete with breathtakingly detailed backgrounds, pleasing character designs, and fluid movements. Each layer of the Abyss is distinct and vibrant in its representation, with a well-crafted blend of beauty and menace that reflect the duality of the abyss itself. The color palette is rich and varied, contributing to an immersive viewing experience.
Sound and Music
The music in Made in Abyss is absolutely central to setting the mood. The soundtrack, composed by Kevin Penkin, perfectly captures the wonder, mystery, and dread of the Abyss. Each track appropriately resonates with the emotional beat of the scenes, magnifying their impact and creating unforgettable moments.
Characters
The character development in Made in Abyss is nothing short of fantastic. Riko and Reg are endearing characters whose relationship grows naturally throughout their journey. They’re both written and portrayed with depth, showing resilience, vulnerability, and growth that make viewers genuinely invested in their journey. The supporting characters, while smaller in number, are complex and contribute to the story in significant ways.
If you’re in for a thrilling tale of adventure, friendship, and mystery, Made in Abyss won’t disappoint you. With top-tier animation, bullet-proof storytelling, and complex characters, it’s a series that’s well worth adding to your anime library. Whether you choose to rent, buy, or stream, rest assured that this deep-dive into the Abyss is an adventure you don’t want to miss!
This is your Anime Critic, signing off till our next anime adventure!
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Mahoujin Guruguru (2017)
Production I.GNike was a simple boy from Boering Village, and the last thing he ever wanted was to become a hero. But when a sign appears from the king of Ainshent Castle Town recruiting heroes to slay the Demon Lord Giri, Nike's father enthusiastically forces him out the door. Along with Kukuri, a member of the Migu Migu Clan, Nike sets out on an adventure to become the legendary hero that the world needs.
As Nike and Kukuri travel across different continents, they attempt to learn the secrets of Guru Guru Magic, a strange but powerful type of magic used to seal Demon Lord Giri's power. While reluctantly taking on their assigned quest, the duo does not fail to acquire new comrades and have fun along the way.
Mahoujin Guruguru (2017) – An Anime Filled with Magic and Adventure
Welcome readers, thank you for tuning into “The Anime Critic” where I assist animation enthusiasts in their quest to discover the world of anime and manga by bringing you the most insightful and freshest reviews available on the web. Today, we’re diving into an eccentric and formidable title that has been all the buzz recently, the enchanting and lively fantasy-adventure: Mahoujin Guruguru (2017). Buckle up folks, this is going to be a rollercoaster ride!
Story Synopsis:
Mahoujin Guruguru features the remarkable story of Nike, a young boy who has always dreamt about being a Hero. This whimsical tale takes a hilarious and not-so-conventional turn when Nike gets forced by his parents to embark on a quest to defeat the Dark Lord Giri. On his journey, he reluctantly teams up with a naive young witch named Kukuri. The twist here is, Kukuri is the last practitioner of Guru Guru magical circle, an ancient and powerful form of magic. Hence begins their adventures together, navigating a world inaccessible to ordinary people, surging forward in the face of uncertainty and danger with traces of humor and youthful exuberance lacing their journey.
The anime incorporate RPG (Role Playing Game) elements into its narrative, creating an interactive and immersive universe. Bringing this world to life are the varied and eccentric characters––from witches, demons, to kings. Can Nike overcome his reluctancy and embrace his destiny? Will Kukuri’s innocent heart survive the hard onslaughts of the cruel world as she walks on the path to mastering Guru Guru? The anime interweaves humor, adventure, and innocence within a layer of magic and fantasy, pledging a delightful ride.
The Anime Critic’s Review:
Mahoujin Guruguru is a real diamond in the rough! No spoilers ahead but take my word for it, this anime is a refreshing blend of fantasy, comedy, and a touch of romance. The unique RPG elements in its narrative brings a distinct sense of dynamism and spontaneity to the traditional fantasy genre. The artwork is an absolute treat to the eyes, with vibrant colors and detailed artwork that wonderfully represents the magical world. Its clever usage of chibi characters and retro-style animation creates a quaint charm supplementing the eccentric nature of this anime.
The character development is another strong point; the characters are endearing and notably layered. Our reluctant Hero, Nike, and the naive witch, Kukuri, are an unusual yet heartwarming partnership, constantly evolving, keeping the viewer thoroughly engaged. The blatantly hilarious comedic elements never feels out of place, in fact, it adds to the show’s allure, making even the most intense moments delightful. Therefore, if laughter is your medicine, this anime is going to be the perfect health boost.
As for the soundtrack, Mahoujin Guruguru doesn’t disappoint either. The upbeat tunes and sound effects beautifully complement the tone and the essence of the show, successfully capturing the sense of magic, adventure, and humor simultaneously.
The Verdict: Must Watch!
Considering the storyline, art style, soundtracks, and character arcs, I wholeheartedly recommend Mahoujin Guruguru (2017) for your next anime watch. Whether you choose to rent, buy, or stream it, you’re in for a delightful experience filled with laughter, magic, and a healthy dose of whimsy. Perfect for any fantasy lover, comedy enthusiast, or simply anyone in need of a feel-good series, Mahoujin Guruguru breathes fresh life into the anime world!
With an array of charismatic characters traversing through a world alive with magic and fun, Mahoujin Guruguru isn’t just a simple ‘save-the-world’ saga. It’s the heroic adventure you didn’t know you needed. Dive in, folks! As the Anime Critic, I can assure you––you won’t regret the plunge!
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Owarimonogatari 2nd Season
ShaftFollowing an encounter with oddity specialist Izuko Gaen, third-year high school student Koyomi Araragi wakes up in a strange, deserted void only to be greeted by a joyfully familiar face in an alarmingly unfamiliar place.
Araragi, with the help of his girlfriend Hitagi Senjougahara, maneuvers through the webs of his past and the perplexities of the present in search of answers. However, fate once again delivers him to the eccentric transfer student Ougi Oshino, who brings forth an unexpected proposal that may unearth the very foundation to which he is anchored. As Araragi peels back the layers of mystery surrounding an apparition, he discovers a truth not meant to be revealed.
STORY SYNOPSIS of OWARIMONOGATARI 2ND SEASON
The journey through this beautifully crafted universe escalates in Owarimonogatari’s second season, a captivating blend of mystery, emotional drama, and supernatural elements. At the heart of the story, we have our main character, Araragi Koyomi, now a high school senior who finds himself entangled in a complex web of oddities and eerie phenomena that stem from his past and the people around him.
This season revolves around Araragi’s attempt to resolve his final oddity case before graduation. The narrative is constructed in a nonlinear style, which shuffles amongst three main arcs, namely, ‘Mayoi Hell,’ ‘Hitagi Rendezvous,’ and ‘Ougi Dark.’ These arcs shine a light on questions left unanswered, circumstances left unexplained, and relationships left unresolved, all while fusing in the aesthetic charisma of previous seasons and a realm of fresh, pivotal occurrences.
DETAILED REVIEW
Owarimonogatari 2nd Season stands as a testament to the greatness of the Monogatari series. It seamlessly wraps up many loose threads and provides emotionally climactic resolutions for characters we’ve grown to love through this eccentric journey.
The narrative is intricately woven, adding more depth and breadth to the Monogatari universe. It beautifully reveals the layers of mystery concealed within each character’s story and circumstances, offering insight into their motives and decision-making processes. The switch between different perspectives throughout the episodes brings about a richness to the story and the characters, making the journey even more compelling and richer in content.
One of the most commendable aspects is the exceptional storytelling that intricately ties multiple plotlines together with tight pacing and suggestive foreshadowing. It’s an artful blend of lengthy dialogues, fantastical elements, introspective monologues, and quick-action sequences. It is bound to hold you captive until the final scene unwinds itself.
The visuals are nothing short of stunning. The dynamic color palette, sharp character designs, and fluid animation work in harmony to effectively demonstrate the often complex emotions, moods, and thoughts of the characters. Backgrounds are lush and breath-taking, playing a significant role in building the atmospheric tone of each scene.
The performances by the voice actors are incredible, bringing their characters into full bloom. The music, too, perfectly complements the overall mood of the storyline, enhancing the emotional impact of certain scenes and thereby creating a deeply immersive viewing experience.
Overall, Owarimonogatari 2nd Season is a phenomenal entry in the Monogatari series that is sure to intrigue, captivate, and touch the audience. Its masterful blend of well-crafted narratives, breathtaking visuals, and relate-able character arcs are sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
Should you buy, rent, or stream it? Without any reservations, this anime is worth every penny and second of your time spent. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or new to the Monogatari universe, this second season is an essential watch. Stunning in its emotional depth and narrative complexity, it’s a masterpiece in storytelling that continues the series’s benchmark-setting standards.
FINAL VERDICT
Not only does Owarimonogatari 2nd Season resolve lingering threads in the sprawling narrative, it also manages to deliver highly emotional payoffs. The enthralling mixture of witty dialogues, polished animation and energizing audiovisual presentations, makes this season one of the most engrossing specimens of the series yet. It is a must-watch for any aficionado of thought-provoking anime.
As the ‘Anime Critic’, I highly recommend Owarimonogatari 2nd Season. So, go ahead and buy, rent or stream this beauty, whatever have you: be swept away by the magic of the Monogatari series that lingers long after the final credits roll!
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Youkoso Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e
LercheOn the surface, Koudo Ikusei Senior High School is a utopia. The students enjoy an unparalleled amount of freedom, and it is ranked highly in Japan. However, the reality is less than ideal. Four classes, A through D, are ranked in order of merit, and only the top classes receive favorable treatment.
Kiyotaka Ayanokouji is a student of Class D, where the school dumps its worst. There he meets the unsociable Suzune Horikita, who believes she was placed in Class D by mistake and desires to climb all the way to Class A, and the seemingly amicable class idol Kikyou Kushida, whose aim is to make as many friends as possible.
While class membership is permanent, class rankings are not; students in lower ranked classes can rise in rankings if they score better than those in the top ones. Additionally, in Class D, there are no bars on what methods can be used to get ahead. In this cutthroat school, can they prevail against the odds and reach the top?
Youkoso Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e: An Enigmatically Engaging Enrolment!
Youkoso Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e (Classroom of the Elite) is a seductively sophisticated anime series that thrives on the philosophical concepts of meritocracy and social disparity. Set in the Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing School, a government-run facility designed to cultivate future leaders of the country, the narrative follows Kiyotaka Ayanokouji, a seemingly ordinary student with extraordinary secrets.
In this atypical school, students are rewarded with points based on their overall activities, academic performances, and comportments, dictating their class hierarchy. The anime delves deep down into the intricacies of the human mind, unearthing the turmoil, ambition, and ruthless competition it hides. Alongside Ayanokouji is a diverse cast of characters, each shrouded with enigmas and motives of their own, adding flavor and depth into the narrative of Classroom of the Elite.
Digital Décor and Dazzling Design
Right from the get-go, Lerche Studio’s production quality is top-notch. The animation is slick and the character designs remain faithful to the light novel. Iconic cityscapes blend seamlessly with the immaculate school environment, creating an elegant backdrop for the engaging storyline.
Clever Characterization and Pivotal Plot
At first glance, Ayanokouji might strike you as a typical underdog protagonist. But soon, the anime drops subtle hints about his dark past and splendid strategic brain, carefully keeping you on your toes. Other characters, too, are not what they appear, their complex personalities unearthing as the story progresses, making it a riveting watch till the end.
Score from the Stratosphere
The series also boasts impressive soundtracks. The opulent opening track “Caste Room” by ZAQ sets the tone, with its intriguing blend of electronic music with a classical piano melody, while the ending theme “Beautiful Soldier” by Minami adds a soft yet empowering note to finish each episode.
To Stream, Rent or Buy?
If you’re a fan of psychological drama, relentless plot twists, and intellectual mind games, put Classroom of the Elite on your must-watch list now! The series is an addictive gamble, neatly wrapping up each episode, yet leaving you craving for more. However, adaptational issues are there, as the anime diverts somewhat from the light novel. If you’re strictly adhered to adaptations, buying the manga may be a better option for you.
All in all, Youkoso Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e is a gem amidst a sea of commercialized anime, setting itself apart with its unique storyline, endearing characters, and top-tier production. However you choose to indulge –stream, rent, or buy- Classroom of the Elite is bound to be a captivating experience.
Anime Critic’s Rating: 8.5/10
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