Summer 2018

Angolmois: Genkou Kassenki

NAZ
12 episodes · TV Completed
7.12

The year is 1274. After conquering most of the known world, the Mongols turn their sights on Japan and their first step on the road to a full invasion of the mainland is taking Tsushima Island. Kuchii Jinzaburou and a group exiles are sent by the Kamakura Shogunate to the island at the request of Princess Teruhi. There they will face overwhelming odds and the fate of Tsushima will be decided!

Asobi Asobase

Lerche
12 episodes · TV Completed
8.19

During recess, Olivia, a foreign transfer student who doesn't know English, plays a game of "look-the-other-way" with Hanako Honda, a loud-mouthed airhead. Their rowdy behavior spurs the ire of Kasumi Nomura, a deadpan loner constantly teased by her older sister for her tendency to lose games. Not willing to compete, Kasumi declines Olivia's offer to join the fun, but eventually gets involved anyway and dispenses her own brand of mischief. Soon, a strange friendship blossoms between the peculiar trio, and they decide to form the "Pastime Club," where they are free to resume their daily hijinks.

Whether it be failing to learn English, trying desperately to become popular, or getting caught by teachers at the wrong time, school life will never be boring when the girls of Asobi Asobase are up to their hilarious antics.

Synopsis

Welcoming you to a world of fun, fiasco, and frenetics, comes the anime “Asobi Asobase”. This comical wonder, created by Rin Suzukawa, brings a fresh spin to the slice-of-life genre. The series houses a diverse and eccentric trio of middle school girls; the naive Olivia, the bookworm Hanako, and the cool-with-a-hidden-side Kasumi, who form “Pastimers Club”, setting off a riotous journey filled with outrageous games, mind-bending challenges, and insane humor.

Life seemed dull and mundane as the girls entered middle school. But little did they know, their days were about to be turned upside-down. The story follows these three utterly incompatible yet inseparable girls, as they navigate their way through inaccurate assumptions, comical misunderstandings, and absurd situations. The daily life series focuses on the sheer absurdity of the girls’ club activities offering an entertaining game-like premise which promises nothing but side-splitting hilarity.

Review

Okay, Anime fans! Here comes my take on “Asobi Asobase.” First off, I must say, if you’re seeking a typical high-school drama or romance, then this show is not your cup of tea. This anime, folks, is a rambunctious, comical whirlwind that just doesn’t stop spinning. It almost feels like a parody of itself, taking every chance it gets to overemphasize or poke fun at traditional Japanese anime tropes.

At the heart of this anime is the celebrated “Pastimers Club” which succeeds at intertwining the mundane games into hilarious episodes. This might sound simple and repetitive, but trust me, the way in which it is executed is sheer brilliance. The comedic punchlines hit right on cue every time, even sometimes when you least expect it, sprinkling hysteria generously throughout each episode. It’s a roller-coaster ride of impracticalities that are bound to leave you gasping for breath between fits of laughter.

The characters in “Asobi Asobase” are far from typical, and that’s a major draw. Olivia, Hanako, and Kasumi each have a distinctive personality that arguably could lead its spin-off. Olivia’s fake foreigner façade, Hanako’s blind passion towards pop culture, and Kasumi’s fear of “Men” – these quirks make their camaraderie an unpredictable field of comedy mines, ready to explode with the slightest touch.

The animation style is picturesque in its unique way, surpassing the standard of everyday comedy Anime, especially with a sudden shift in facial expressions that truly binds the entire comedic act together. The music does a commendable job providing supportive background scores coupled well with hilarious music cues that accentuate the humor.

Final Verdict

To conclude, “Asobi Asobase” is not your average slice-of-life anime, rather it breathes life into the slice-of-life genre by shuffling the norms. This anime is perfect for those who enjoy high-profile comedy with quirky characters, strange events, and a simple yet engaging storyline. It’s a must-stream for anime enthusiasts in need of a hearty laugh.

So, set yourself on the crazy laugh ride with Olivia, Hanako, and Kasumi. Rent it, buy it or stream it – no matter the way, “Asobi Asobase” is bound to bring a smile on your face.

Asobi Asobase
8.19 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Asobi Asobase offers a unique blend of comedy that is rare in many anime, with its unconventional humor and hilarious character interactions. In addition, the animation quality is highly commendable, perfectly complementing the series' fast-paced, absurd antics.
Cons
While the anime Asobi Asobase provides solid humor and unique character dynamics, it can be off-putting for viewers who are not accustomed to the crude humor style and bizarre animation sequences. Furthermore, some viewers have also pointed out that the development and complexity of the characters can feel a bit lacking at times.
Summary
Asobi Asobase offers a refreshing take on the slice-of-life comedy genre, featuring three dysfunctional middle school girls engaging in seemingly innocent games that often turn bizarre, chaotic, and hilariously insane. The anime packs a surprising amount of comedy punch, largely due to its blend of unpredictable humor and outstanding character dynamics. Highly recommended for those looking for a unique and engaging high school comedy.
Rating
What people say... Leave your rating
Order by:

Be the first to leave a review.

User Avatar User Avatar
Verified
{{{ review.rating_title }}}
{{{review.rating_comment | nl2br}}}

This review has no replies yet.

Avatar
Show more
Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Your browser does not support images upload. Please choose a modern one

Banana Fish

MAPPA
24 episodes · TV Completed
8.48

Aslan Jade Callenreese, known as Ash Lynx, was a runaway picked off the streets of New York City and raised by the infamous godfather of the mafia, Dino Golzine. Now 17 years old and the boss of his own gang, Ash begins investigating the mysterious "Banana Fish"—the same two words his older brother, Griffin, has muttered since his return from the Iraq War. However, his inquiries are hindered when Dino sends his men after Ash at an underground bar he uses as a hideout.

At the bar, Skip, Ash's friend, introduces him to Shunichi Ibe and his assistant, Eiji Okumura, who are Japanese photographers reporting on American street gangs. However, their conversation is interrupted when Shorter Wong, one of Ash's allies, calls to warn him about Dino. Soon, Dino's men storm the bar, and in the ensuing chaos kidnap Skip and Eiji. Now, Ash must find a way to rescue them and continue his investigation into Banana Fish, but will his history with the mafia prevent him from succeeding?

Banana Fish: Revel in the Urban Struggle amidst Love and Crime: A Review

Enter a world woven of the raw fabrics of love, crime, and survival. Banana Fish, adapted from the widely adored manga by Akimi Yoshida, whisks you into the gritty realms of New York City, painting a captivating tale, dripping with crime-fiction allure. We witness the life of Ash Lynx, a gifted and remarkably beautiful young gang leader burdened by a mysterious secret – a potent drug running rampant in the criminal underworld known as “Banana Fish”.

This drug is an enigmatic entity, serving as an undying fire igniting a seemingly endless chain of events. Entwined in this chaos enters Eiji Okumura, a pure-hearted Japanese photojournalist who becomes Ash’s closest ally. The narrative then skilfully marries these contrasting worlds, presenting a poignant tale of unconventional friendships and intense struggles – all cloaked under the sobering reality of an urban abyss.

Story and Characters: A Treacherous Dance

Banana Fish is a series that thrives on its brilliantly constructed narrative, where secrets are currencies and trust a high-stakes gamble. Each moment is carefully nested within larger threads of intrigue, betrayal, and vengeance. This relentless rhythm of anticipation truly lets you savour its crime-genre roots.

The brilliant dynamic between Ash and Eiji forms our heartline. This relationship is a powerful testament to the series’ storytelling. It reminds us, time and again, that love flourishes even amidst the direst adversities. It’s not only their bond but the wonderfully varied interactions with a wide array of memorable characters, that fuel the passionate engine of Banana Fish.

Art and Animation: Grit Meets Glamour

The series executes its art with commendable precision and depth. The gritty and grim visual palette perfectly encapsulates the hard-boiled New York setting. The character designs are a stand-out, carrying an equivalent weight of the characters’ diverse and layered personalities. It’s a visual spectacle that tells a narrative by itself.

The animation is urgent, mirroring the fast-paced chain of events. The urban landscape is depicted with enviable attention to detail, further augmenting the sense of authenticity and immersiveness. Each explosion, chase, and brawl is done justice through fluidity that begs admiration.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Journey

Banana Fish is an emotional rollercoaster, spinning a rich tapestry of dark realism, touching friendships, and unnerving twists. It undeniably has its own brand of luster, enveloping deep-seated humanity amidst a venomous underworld.

So, should you rent, buy, or stream it? My advice: do all three. Banana Fish deserves to be experienced multiple times, offering new insights and emotional resonances with each watch. It truly is more than just an anime, transcending into a testament of survival, trust, and the undying power of the human spirit.

If you’re a seasoned anime fan or a newcomer to the genre, or perhaps just someone who loves a compelling story – Banana Fish is an indispensable addition to your watchlist. Happy Streaming!

Banana Fish
8.48 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Banana Fish boasts an engaging and intense story that effortlessly captures viewers' attention. The intricate character development and exceptional animation quality make it visually appealing and emotionally impactful.
Cons
Banana Fish may not appeal to viewers who are not fond of heavy themes like drug abuse, sexual assault, and violence. Some characters could've been more developed and the pacing of the story can occasionally feel rushed.
Summary
In this gripping crime thriller anime, "Banana Fish" weaves an intricate tale of gang warfare, political corruption, and redemption. Set against a backdrop of New York City's grimy underbelly, the series follows the story of Ash Lynx, a teenage gang leader seeking to unravel the conspiracy behind a mysterious drug called "Banana Fish." This heart-wrenching tale filled with action and passion, blending elements of film noir and Japanese anime, is sure to captivate audiences.
Rating
What people say... Leave your rating
Order by:

Be the first to leave a review.

User Avatar User Avatar
Verified
{{{ review.rating_title }}}
{{{review.rating_comment | nl2br}}}

This review has no replies yet.

Avatar
Show more
Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Your browser does not support images upload. Please choose a modern one

Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen - Kouhan-sen

Bandai Namco Pictures
14 episodes · TV Completed
8.88

Following the temporary retreat of the Altana Liberation Army from the Kabuki District, the state of the war has seemingly improved. However, as the Oniwaban, Shinsengumi, and residents of the district combat the army's remnants, Edo's greatest inventor Gengai Hiraga is abducted. Responsible for causing the enemy's withdrawal by rendering their weapons useless, Gengai's nanomachine virus is now at risk of being shut down.

Meanwhile, a laser capable of obliterating a planet is activated in Earth's orbit on the Liberation Army's mother ship. Another battle ensues when Shinsuke Takasugi and the rest of the Kiheitai arrive on the vessel to stop the weapon from firing. Forced to fight a war on two fronts, the Yorozuya and their allies must prevail on both sides to save Edo and the rest of the world.

Synopsis

In an alternate past where feudal Japan is invaded by aliens known as the “Amanto”, a fascinating blend of traditional samurai culture and futuristic technology is brought to life in “Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen – Kouhan-sen”. This is the anime where you’ll see samurai wielding swords and aliens with advanced tech gear – a dotted landscape of shops selling sushi and mom-and-pop sweet shops alongside rocket-powered hoverboards!

Our story focuses on Gintoki Sakata, a samurai with an exceptionally sweet tooth and a bit of an odd-job man. Although the narrative may seem fragmented at first, showcasing various characters and seemingly unrelated stories, it all narrows down to a central connecting thread – Gintoki’s life and the numerous oddballs he interacts with. As the series unfolds, you will witness a riotous ride filled with comedy, action, and heartwarming moments.

Review

The beauty of “Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen – Kouhan-sen” lies in its unique ability to masterfully toggle between riotous comedy and profound themes of honor, a samurai’s loyalty, and existential quandary. The switching is so seamless that it strikes you with laughter in one scene and engulfs you with intense emotions in the next; suddenly, it dawns upon you the ingenious brilliance of the show’s narrative.

The series takes characters we’ve loved and developed over numerous seasons and showcases their growth and progression in a manner that feels both natural and satisfying. Gintoki Sakata in particular, the headliner of our story, continues to be one of the most fascinatingly complex characters on the anime scene.

“Kouhan-sen” is the zenith of not only the Gintama series but also the entire anime landscape and its influence on the anime industry. It transcends from being just a show to being an impactful phenomenon with its layered humor, beautifully choreographed action scenes, and characters that grow on you.

The visual experience provided by Studio Sunrise also cannot be overlooked. They bring the raw, lively world of Edo to life with vibrant colors, intricate lighting, and stunning animation. Moreover, the music is simply stirring and complements the show in a way that elevates every scene to a grand scale.

Finally, whether you should rent, buy, or stream this anime depends on your attachment to the series. If you are a newly budding fan, streaming might be a good option to start. If you’ve followed Gintoma’s journey from the beginning like our devoted fanbase, owning doesn’t seem a far-fetched idea. After all, “Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen – Kouhan-sen” is an epic ride that’s worth revisiting time and again.

In conclusion, Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen – Kouhan-sen is a masterpiece that’s got it all – humor, action, heart, and soul. It’s hysterically funny yet deeply compelling, and most importantly, it reminds us why we fell in love with anime in the first place!

Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen - Kouhan-sen
8.88 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen - Kouhan-sen offers a satisfying conclusion featuring spectacular animation and a brilliantly executed storyline. It excels in combining comedy with intense battle scenes and deeply emotional moments, thus maintaining the unique essence of the Gintama series.
Cons
While Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen - Kouhan-sen offers an exciting narrative, the pace seems uneven at times, which might disorient some viewers. Some fans can also find the shift from comedy to serious action a bit jarring, with some jokes appearing out of place in serious scenes.
Summary
The anime Gintama.: Shirogane no Tamashii-hen - Kouhan-sen is explored in this review, focusing on its blend of comedy and samurai action. This article highlights how the series maintains its distinctive, irreverent humor while also tackling serious themes. By embracing its quirky characters and unique narrative style, the anime delivers a satisfying and unpredictable viewing experience.
Rating
What people say... Leave your rating
Order by:

Be the first to leave a review.

User Avatar User Avatar
Verified
{{{ review.rating_title }}}
{{{review.rating_comment | nl2br}}}

This review has no replies yet.

Avatar
Show more
Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Your browser does not support images upload. Please choose a modern one

Grand Blue

Zero-G
12 episodes · TV Completed
8.43

Iori Kitahara moves to the coastal town of Izu for his freshman year at its university, taking residence above Grand Blue, his uncle's scuba diving shop. Iori has high hopes and dreams about having the ideal college experience, but when he enters the shop he is sucked into the alcoholic activities of the carefree members of the Diving Club who frequent the place. Persuaded by upperclassmen Shinji Tokita and Ryuujirou Kotobuki, Iori reluctantly joins their bizarre party. His cousin Chisa Kotegawa later walks in and catches him in the act, earning Iori her utter disdain.

Based on Kenji Inoue and Kimitake Yoshioka's popular comedy manga, Grand Blue follows Iori's misadventures with his eccentric new friends as he strives to realize his ideal college dream, while also learning how to scuba dive.

Introduction & Story Synopsis

Grand Blue is an exquisite anime that brims with a thousand hues of joys, laughter, and youthful vibrancy. It is an anime that serenades its audience with a melody that echoes through the hallowed halls of our hearts and makes us recall the fascinating days of our carefree youth. This fantastic romantic comedy, which takes place around the mesmerizing allure of the ocean, brings the heat of summer to the screen and wraps it in a ribbon of evocative emotions and exhilarating humor.

Our protagonist, Iori Kitahara, is an ordinary college freshman who has moved to the coastal city of Izu for his studies. Here, he begins to work at his Uncle’s diving store, ‘Grand Blue’. As he embarks on his university life, he dreams of beautiful college girls and serene days. However, the reality that awaits him is the stark opposite. Instead of melodious days and angelic girls, he is drawn into a whirlwind of invasion of privacy, crazy parties, and all-night drinking sessions by the members of the diving club. What awaits him is a journey filled with running gags, infectious laughter, extreme nudity, and a club that can’t seem to have enough of alcohol!

The Anime Critic’s Review

As The Anime Critic, I find the juxtaposition of university life alongside the panoramic view of a coastal city that Grand Blue brings to be absolutely brilliant. The mighty ocean plays its role throughout the series, reflecting the emotions, dreams, and desires of the characters—and it does it incredibly well!

The characters in Grand Blue are astonishingly well-fleshed out. Each character has a unique personality, contributing to the show’s immersive narrative. The absurd humor in the series plays out perfectly through these characters as they showcase a spectrum of emotions- tears of sadness, the joy of friendship, the hilarity of unexpected situations, and the ecstasy of youthful exuberance.

From humor to romance to drama, Grand Blue skillfully switches between these genres without a hitch. This seamless transition keeps the series refreshing and prevents it from falling into the monotony that plagues many animes of a similar genre. The series certainly shows its hilarity but also delves into the deep poignancy of youth, encapsulating the spectrum of bittersweet experiences that come with growing up.

The animation is stunning and really brings out the beauty of the blue seas at the coast of Izu. The serene azure of the ocean creates a breathtaking backdrop against the comedy-drama, adding a layer of beauty to the scenes. Along with the animation, the music enhances the charm and effectively carries the emotional depth of the series, making it a great viewing experience.

On the matter of whether to rent, buy, or stream this masterpiece, Grand Blue certainly earns a big thumbs up for a buy! The rewatch value is incredible, thanks to its distinctive storytelling approach, characters, and captivating artwork.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Grand Blue is a vibrant painting of youthful candor and absurd humor draped over the alluring beauty of the ocean. With its eclectic blend of comedy, drama, and superb characterizations, this anime undoubtedly provides an immersive experience that will captivate your heart. Its universality greets a wide range of audiences – from college students to working adults, evoking a sense of nostalgia about their own adventurous youth. So, grab your diving gear, crank up your speakers for the terrific soundtrack, and plunge into the azure beauty of Grand Blue!

Grand Blue
8.43 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
Grand Blue is a hilarious anime that effectively incorporates comedy into its storytelling, offering viewers a vibrant and engaging viewing experience. The characters are well-developed, and the show's animation and sound design are impressive, elevating the overall entertainment value.
Cons
The anime has a slow start which can be off putting to some viewers. Some may also find the humor overly crude and repetitive, overshadowing potential character development and plot progression.
Summary
In the anime review of Grand Blue, the article highlights the series' unique blend of comedy, the pain of growing up, and beautiful ocean scenery. It delves into the character development, specifically exploring the protagonist's journey from a city boy to a diving enthusiast. The review also touches up on its eccentric humor and mishaps that provide an entertaining experience, albeit with a wild touch.
Rating
What people say... Leave your rating
Order by:

Be the first to leave a review.

User Avatar User Avatar
Verified
{{{ review.rating_title }}}
{{{review.rating_comment | nl2br}}}

This review has no replies yet.

Avatar
Show more
Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Your browser does not support images upload. Please choose a modern one

High Score Girl

J.C.Staff
12 episodes · TV Completed
7.77

The year is 1991, and arcade video games are the latest craze. Becoming a professional gamer is a far-fetched dream in an industry that has yet to spread its influence. Yet, that is the path sixth-grader Haruo Yaguchi wants to pursue. His aptitude for video games has earned him respect in local arcades and bestowed him with confidence and pride, both of which are shattered when fellow classmate Akira Oono easily defeats him in Street Fighter 2.

Akira is rich, pretty, and smart—as close as can be to a perfect girl. But Haruo had never cared about these things as, despite his multiple shortcomings as a person, his supremacy in video games was, in his mind, undisputed. So, now that someone has appeared who can rival him, part of Haruo cannot help but loathe her. Another part, however, itches for somebody who can compete with him on equal terms, and Akira is more than capable.

Synopsis of High Score Girl

The world of the 90s arcade gaming scene is alive and pulling at your nostalgic heartstrings in Rensuke Oshikiri’s ever-popular gaming anime series, High Score Girl. It follows a socially-awkward, gaming-obsessed boy, Haruo Yaguchi, who can’t quite grasp the concept of reality until he meets his antithesis in a fellow gamer, the intelligent, rich, and seemingly perfect Akira Ono. Other than their gaming bond, they have nothing in common. Nevertheless, a unique and heartwarming friendship unfolds between them through their shared love for video games.

As their relationship blossoms amidst the challenges of school and parental expectations, they start quelling both societal norms and personal barriers in a society that can’t keep up with their growing love for arcade games. Follow their journey woven with classic 90s video games, humor, sweet moments, and irrevocable life lessons.

Review: High Score Girl

Let me start by saying this – High Score Girl is an absolute gem for gamers and anime lovers alike out there. The humorous and romantic world of old-time arcade gaming hits home for both aficionados and amateurs!

The character building is remarkable. We initially meet Haruo, an average student with a lower than average social status indulged in the world of games to escape his reality. Akira serves as his polar opposite being the ideal persona of perfectionism yet caught up in her struggles. Their connection through gaming feels authentic and offers a delightful getaway for our protagonists from their distressing realities.

The anime ends its chapters in cliffhangers making us want to crave the next episode. The integration of classic game titles like Street Fighter II and Final Fantasy hits you square in the nostalgia and makes the series a brilliant homage to 90s arcade gaming culture. Even if you’re not a seasoned gamer, the series beautifully illustrates the dynamics and the lexicon of the gaming world, so everyone feels at home.

As for the visuals, JC Staff nailed it with their blending of 3D designs and traditional 2D animation. It’s smooth, engaging, and remarkably in tune with the gaming theme, bringing to life the pixelated 90s arcade world. A few awkward CGI moments here and then are but minor drawbacks in this brilliantly animated series.

Music complements the show brilliantly. Composed by Yūsuke Kobayashi, the tracks manage to capture the fun, intensity, and at times, the sweet atmosphere of our character’s world. The OST is a curated blend of rock beats, jazz tunes, and lighthearted melodies that synchronizes with the dynamic rhythm of the series.

In conclusion, High Score Girl brilliantly merges romance, humor, nostalgia, and relatable characters in a fun-packed gaming universe. It’s a love letter to arcade gaming and a must-watch whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just someone in the mood for a good-old-school anime. So, to rent, buy, or stream? Me being The Anime Critic, I’d unquestionably recommend you to buy or stream it TODAY! It’s an indispensable addition to your anime collection. Trust me; you wouldn’t be disappointed!

High Score Girl
7.77 / 10 Reviewer
{{ reviewsOverall }} / 10 Users (0 votes)
Pros
High Score Girl is praised for its impressive blend of nostalgia and romance, inviting audiences back into the 90s arcade scene. Its well-developed characters and genuinely charming love story also enhance viewer engagement, providing both emotional depth and entertainment value.
Cons
The anime heavily relies on gaming jargon and references that may not resonate with viewers unfamiliar with the gaming world. Additionally, some characters can be perceived as underdeveloped which may affect the overall engagement with the story.
Summary
High Score Girl whisks viewers into the nostalgic world of 90s arcade gaming, intertwining love, friendship, and rivalry amidst the thrill of video games. Brilliantly using games as metaphors for life's challenges, it carefully displays teenage complexities against a retro backdrop. The anime beautifully encapsulates youth, first love, and the essence of competitive gaming in a surprisingly sophisticated and emotional package.
Rating
What people say... Leave your rating
Order by:

Be the first to leave a review.

User Avatar User Avatar
Verified
{{{ review.rating_title }}}
{{{review.rating_comment | nl2br}}}

This review has no replies yet.

Avatar
Show more
Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Your browser does not support images upload. Please choose a modern one