Winter 2010
Durarara!!
Brain's BaseIn Tokyo's downtown district of Ikebukuro, amidst many strange rumors and warnings of anonymous gangs and dangerous occupants, one urban legend stands out above the rest—the existence of a headless "Black Rider" who is said to be seen driving a jet-black motorcycle through the city streets.
Mikado Ryuugamine has always longed for the excitement of the city life, and an invitation from a childhood friend convinces him to move to Tokyo. Witnessing the Black Rider on his first day in the city, his wishes already seem to have been granted. But as supernatural events begin to occur, ordinary citizens like himself, along with Ikebukuro's most colorful inhabitants, are mixed up in the commotion breaking out in their city.
The Anime Critic’s Review: Diving Headfirst into the Chaos of Durarara!!
Synopsis
Set amidst the pulsating backdrop of Ikebukuro, Durarara!! tosses you, headfirst, into a riveting world humming with supernatural creatures, gang wars, headless motorcyclers and underworld manipulators. The storyline spirals around the innocent young student Mikado Ryūgamine, who yearns for the exciting city life that can bring meaning to the monotony of his days. His childhood friend Masaomi Kida persuades him to transfer to Raira Academy in Ikebukuro, Tokyo’s downtown district, where the underbelly of the city is juxtaposed with the everyday life of high school students. Unbeknownst to him, this leap of faith leads him headlong into a pandemonium far exceeding his wildest dreams, or nightmares.
Ikebukuro is as colorful and vibrant as the vast array of characters it houses. Intersecting narratives flatten the line between protagonist and side characters, making each individual remarkably memorable in their own right. This anime stage brims with extravagant personalities—a fearsome brawler Shizuo Heiwajima, the cunning information broker Izaya Orihara, a mysterious gang called Dollars, and the enigmatic ‘Headless Rider’ named Celty Sturluson. Durarara!! artfully mingles reality with the surreal, where the unusual becomes the commonplace, promising viewers an unforgettable anime experience.
Review
I must begin this review by declaring Durarara!! as a veritable masterpiece – a show that inherently understands how to create layered narratives, explore character developments, and juxtapose reality and the abnormal seamlessly. What truly distinguishes Durarara!! from the pack is its superb storytelling, bolstered by imaginative writing and world-building.
The complexity of Durarara!!’s plot works surprisingly well thanks to the show’s unique narrative structure. Instead of adhering to a central narrative, the anime follows multiple characters, intertwining their stories in a way that shapes and completes the larger plotline. This approach allows for excellent character development and creates a compelling world brimming with intrigue, quirkiness, and all shades of humanity.
On the technical front, Durarara!! shines with its fluid animation, especially in the rapid, action-packed sequences. Noteworthy, too, is its grip on the ambiance – the bustling vibrancy of Ikebukuro is captured beautifully and acts as a character in its own right, contributing to the overall appeal and charm of Durarara!!. The soundtrack amplifies the viewing experience, incorporating a blend of upbeat J-pop tracks and soulful melodies that encapsulate both the frantic energy and underlying mystery of its setting.
Where Durarara!! might confuse some, especially in its initial episodes, is in the pacing. Given its non-linear storytelling, acclimatizing to its distinctive style might take a few episodes. However, viewers who persist beyond this initial hurdle will be treated to an anime that’s thought-provoking and multilayered, giving unparalleled depth and richness to its narrative.
Should you rent, buy, or stream? Given the narrative complexity and the rewatchability of Durarara!!, buying the anime series might be the best option. However, if you’re on the fences due to the unique storytelling style, renting or streaming episode by episode could be the way to go.
All things considered, Durarara!! is a must-watch for anyone seeking an unconventional, refreshing anime that challenges and rewards in equal measure. It serves as a testament to what anime can achieve – delivering a chaotic yet fascinating world where ordinary people cross paths with the extraordinary. A definite thumbs-up from The Anime Critic!
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Heartcatch Precure!
Toei AnimationYoung flower enthusiast Tsubomi Hanasaki is often modest and quiet. But with her family moving to a new town, she aims to reinvent her image at her new school as someone more confident and outgoing. On moving day, she dreams of a mysterious tree in the sky guarded by a warrior named "Cure Moonlight."
Tsubomi quickly learns that this was no ordinary dream when she encounters two mysterious fairies—Chypre and Coffret—who are being hunted down by a strange woman. When the woman summons a giant monster to attack the city, Tsubomi finds herself transforming into a warrior to fight the enemy! Taking on the alias "Cure Blossom," Tsubomi learns that the woman is part of a villainous group that aims to turn the world into a lifeless desert, with her new duty being to stop it from happening. As Tsubomi continues to battle more monsters and uncover the secrets behind Cure Moonlight, will she find the confidence needed to overcome her timid nature?
Heartcatch Precure! – A Sprinkle of Magical Girl Power to Touch Your Heart
Today, we dive into the vibrant wonderworld of “Heartcatch Precure!”, a dazzling spectacle of friendship, ambition and, of course, the glorious magic of transformation! Let’s dive deep into this captivating anime that takes us on a vibrant journey of blossoming friendships, grueling challenges, and magical transformations!
Synopsis – Every Flower Has its Thorns, And Every Magical Girl, Her Trials
“Heartcatch Precure!” throws us right into the turmoil of the mystical Great Heart Tree’s wilting. Our first heroine, Hanasaki Tsubomi, a timid and introverted botany enthusiast, relocates to the bustling city of Kibogaoka, carrying the weight of a valuable secret – she’s one of the destined warriors, Pretty Cure, sworn to save the Great Heart Tree.
Reluctantly, she teams up with the energetic and bold Kurumi Erika to transform into Cure Blossom and Cure Marine, striking down the Desert Apostles to collect Heart Seeds. As they journey together, Tsubomi and Erika transform, not only into Precures, but into stronger versions of themselves, learning to balance their lives as teenagers and saviors of the universe!
Review – A Dazzling Display of Girl Power and Heartful Transformation!
Story & Themes
“Heartcatch Precure!” charms with an exciting mix of classic magical-girl tropes and innovative, heart-wrenching narrative arcs. The tale of friendship and determination is beautifully displayed through Tsubomi and Erika’s struggles and victories. The series handles themes of self-confidence and personal growth masterfully, making it a must-experience journey for anime enthusiasts.
Characters
Our protagonists are beautifully realized characters, each bearing their distinct identity. Tsubomi’s journey from a shy, withdrawn girl to a courageous warrior is nothing short of inspiring. Erika’s infectious energy and tough-love approach offer a perfect dinamic to Tsubomi, making their team a treat to watch. The supporting cast does a commendable job, adding depth and further dimension to the plot.
Art & Animation
The series boasts a visually delightful art style, painting a lively world of vibrant hues and dynamic character designs. Transformation sequences are detailed and fluid, leading to energized battles that pull you in from the get-go. Kudos to the animation team for such a visual feast!
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is both uplifting and atmospheric, accentuating critical story moments masterfully. The opening and closing themes are catchy and truly encapsulate the show’s spirit – friendship, self-improvement, bravery, and heart-pounding action.
Should You Watch It?
Absolutely! “Heartcatch Precure!” is a mesmerizing journey that transcends the magical-girl genre. Not to mention, its story of friendship, courage, and personal growth makes it an ideal watch for viewers of any age. Whether you rent, buy or stream, ensure you make time for this magical journey!
So grab your Fairy Tacts, summon your Heart Perfumes, and prepare to bloom with “Heartcatch Precure!”. It’s time to Pretty Cure, Open My Heart!
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Hidamari Sketch x ☆☆☆
ShaftWhen we first met Yuno, she'd just been accepted to the prestigious Yamabuki Art School, and it was up to her new neighbors at Hidamari to help her find her way in the big scary world. Now a seasoned vet of the Hidamari Apartments herself, Yuno's newest challenge is to help the latest arrivals, Nazuna and Nori, acclimate to life on their own. Of course, since it IS Hidamari, there are still lots of trials and tribulations ahead, and nothing will ever go quite as expected. But with friends like Miyako, Hiro, and Sae ready to lend a hand, there will always be a ray of sunshine at the end of every storm in Hidamari Sketch x Hoshimittsu.
(Source: Sentai Filmworks)
Story Synopsis
Venture into the whimsical world of Hidamari Apartments as it comes alive in Hidamari Sketch x ☆☆☆, a beautiful slice of life anime that is sure to tug at your heartstrings. Centering around four charming girls, Yuno, Miyako, Hiro, and Sae, this friendly neighborhood tales shines a soft light on the simple beauty of daily life. Along with their art-oriented academic pursuits, the story delves into their varied experiences, from mundane chores to exciting festivals, all of which help paint a beautiful canvas of youth.
Engross in the daily laughter, frustration, and joy of these girls, who seek inspiration in the world around them. With their lovingly rendered world as the backdrop and their teacher, Yoshinoya-sensei’s guidance, Hidamari Sketch x ☆☆☆ is a heartwarming tale of simple pleasures and artistic endeavors.
Artistic Style and Animation
Shinbo Akiyuki’s direction in Shaft studio within this anime is worthy of applause. The illustrative style is poetic with the artwork showing great perception into the abstract. Elsewhere, the anime breaks normalcy with scenes involving imaginative and picturesque metaphors. The minimalist background, combined with a pastel color palette, breathes a sense of serenity into the anime, truly capturing the essence of an artist’s life.
Characters
Character development is another fantastic facet within Hidamari Sketch x ☆☆☆. Every character is thoughtfully anchored. Yuno, Hiro, Sae, and Miyako each have their distinct personalities, and the anime does an exceptional job in not only presenting their traits but developing them throughout the story. You’ll find yourself becoming endeared to the girls, sharing in their moments of happiness, worry, and artistic surprises.
Music and Sound
Aesthetically, the background score perfectly complements the overall ambience of the series. The opening theme sung by the lead characters promises to uplift your mood, while the closing theme song leaves a peaceful hum. The voice acting is also superbly executed, giving audiences a spectrum of emotion that is quintessential to this genre.
Should You Watch it? Verdict
Hidamari Sketch x ☆☆☆ is an ode to the simplicity and beauty of everyday life, and to the inherent charm of friendships. It’s a delightful anime that celebrates creativity and the power of little things. If you’re seeking a feel-good anime with complex characters, a uniquely artistic style, and an engaging, wholesome narrative, then prepare to fall in love with the world of Hidamari Sketch x ☆☆☆.
In conclusion, whether you choose to rent, stream or buy, Hidamari Sketch x ☆☆☆ is a captivating, heartwarming anime journey that is undeniably worth immersing in. So sit back, relax and allow yourself to be swept into the enchanting world of Hidamari Apartments and join in, as Yuno, Hiro, Sae, and Miyako embark on their unforgettable journey through life and art.
Rating
9.5/10
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Katanagatari
White FoxIn an Edo-era Japan lush with a variety of sword-fighting styles, Shichika Yasuri practices the most unique one: Kyotouryuu, a technique in which the user's own body is wielded as a blade. The enigmatic seventh head of the Kyotouryuu school, Shichika lives quietly in exile with his sister Nanami until one day—the wildly ambitious strategist Togame barges into their lives.
Togame brazenly requests that Shichika help in her mission to collect twelve unique swords, known as the "Deviant Blades," for the shogunate. Shichika accepts, interested in the girl herself rather than petty politics, and thus sets out on a journey. Standing in their way are the fierce wielders of these legendary weapons as well as other power-hungry entities who seek to thwart Togame's objective. In order to prevail against their enemies, the duo must become an unbreakable team as they forge ahead on a path of uncertainty and peril.
Unsheathing the Beauty of Katanagatari: A Comprehensive Review
The sprawling epic of Katanagatari (translated as ‘Sword Story’) is an exhilarating concoction of adventure, martial arts, and gut-wrenching romance enveloped in an unforgettable art style. Set in Edo-era Japan, the story unravels around Yasuri Shichika, a swordsman who fights without a sword, using the unique martial art Kyotouryuu, passed down through the Yasuri family for generations. Living in exile, ‘The Swordless Swordsman’ leads a peaceful life on Fushou Island with his sister Nanami until, that is, the arrival of a woman turns his whole world upside down.
The woman, a skilled strategist named Togame, seeks Shichika’s aid in her mission to collect twelve unique and powerful swords, known as the Deviant Blades, created by an eccentric master swordsmith. Togame has her eyes set on the political power that these swords would bring, and Shichika, despite his initial indifference, is drawn by her passionate drive and agrees to embark on the perilous journey. What unfolds is a tale of sword fights and politics interspersed with contemplative dialogues and blooming human connections.
Storyline and Themes
The first thing that strikes you about Katanagatari is its deft handling of the story narrative. Unlike your quintessential Shounen, Katanagatari takes a beat, deliberately slow in its narration, allowing its characters and the world around them to unfurl beautifully. There’s a perfect blend of explosive action sequences and unexpected plot twists that’ll keep you on your toes. Using the motif of a sword hunt, the series explores unconventional themes such as the nature of power, the burden of legacy, and the profound complexity of human relationships!
Character Development and Interaction
The core strength of this anime is undeniably the character dynamics. Shichika and Togame’s relationship development forms the heart of the story, evolving from a mere contract to deep affection in a way that feels organic. The chemistry between these two is palpable even in their constant bickering. Then there are the intriguing Deviant Blade wielders, each with their own distinct personality, motivations and hardships, adding various dimensions to the narrative.
Art Style and Soundtrack
Katanagatari’s unique art style deserves special mention. Employing flat colour zones, minimalist character design and dynamic patterns, the series pulsates with a distinctive visual energy. It’s almost like watching an elaborate moving painting! The soundtrack, which uses a fusion of traditional Japanese and electronic music, further enhances this vibrant atmosphere. Special shoutout to the catchy and emotional theme songs that perfectly encapsulate the series’ spirit.
Final Verdict
Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or a newcomer, Katanagatari is a must-watch. Its in-depth character development, subtle themes, exciting action, and beautiful art style make it a stand-out among samurai-themed anime. It’s an investment of time and emotions worth every minute. Remember, unlike other anime, this series has double-length episodes, so buckle up for an immersive journey.
If you’re considering renting, buying, or streaming anime, Katanagatari should undoubtedly be at the top of your list. It’s a fresh spin on traditional samurai tales, guaranteed to offer a unique experience you won’t soon forget.
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Nodame Cantabile Finale
J.C.StaffShinichi Chiaki is quickly making a name for himself as the principal conductor of the revitalized Roux-Marlet Orchestra, and Megumi "Nodame" Noda has made leaps and bounds as a pianist at the Conservatoire de Paris. However, tensions mount between the two as Nodame feels left behind by Chiaki's growing success and his close friendship with legendary piano prodigy Rui Son. Disregarding her teacher Professor Charles Auclair's advice, Nodame enters another piano competition in an attempt to jumpstart her own performance career.
Meanwhile, those around Chiaki and Nodame are at their own crossroads. Rui begins to doubt herself after hearing Nodame's playing and being denied tutelage from Auclair; Maestro Franz von Stresemann faces the reality of his mortality; pianists Yunlong Li and Tatiana Vishneva feverishly prepare for a competition, while the latter also struggles with her growing feelings for oboist and fellow student Yasunori Kuroki.
As Chiaki, Nodame, and their friends continue on their respective journeys, they must not only strive to stay true to themselves, but also remember where it all started.
Synopsis of the Story
Welcome dear readers and anime enthusiasts! Today, we will delve into the music-filled world of Nodame Cantabile Finale, the third and final season of the acclaimed anime series. This season continues the beautiful tale of our central characters, Megumi “Nodame” Noda and Shinichi Chiaki, two vastly different personalities bound together by their mutual love of music. Positioned in the heart of Paris, Europe’s capital of music, our characters continue their journey towards their musical dreams, life lessons, and, of course, love.
Extremely lively Nodame, a free-spirited yet incredibly talented pianist, attempts to balance her unconventional piano playing style with her goals of becoming a kindergarten teacher. Meanwhile, stern and structured Chiaki, savors every opportunity to conduct some of Europe’s top orchestras while dealing with his layered emotions towards Nodame. Together, they experience and overcome career challenges, cultural differences and personal evolution.
Anime Critic’s Review
Moving into the review, one cannot help but comment on the absolute completeness of Nodame Cantabile Finale. Whether it’s the story development, the character arcs and their relationships, or the high-quality animation that perfectly encapsulates the characters’ emotions and reactions – every aspect of this series is a delight to watch.
One of the most charming aspects of Nodame Cantabile Finale is the depth of its characters. Each character undergoes distinct evolution throughout the series, making the viewer not only invested in their stories but also leaving them eager to witness their journey.
Apart from that, the brilliant depiction of music and its impact on the characters’ lives and dreams adds a unique flavor to the storyline. The musical performances are beautifully animated and accompanied by outstanding auditory compositions that genuinely make you feel like you’re in a concert hall, appreciating a live performance.
Commercial Appeal – Rent, buy, or stream?
Whether you’re an anime newbie or a seasoned veteran, Nodame Cantabile Finale is a series worth adding to your collection. Its balance of humor, romance, drama, and music create an enchanting narrative that you’d want to revisit time and again. Consequently, purchasing a personal copy or streaming it on a dependable broadcasting network such as Crunchyroll or Funimation would be an excellent investment.
As this series revolves around classical music, renting might not immerse you in the beautiful blend of visuals and sound that this anime offers completely. Therefore, owning the series or streaming it would be an ideal choice for the best experience.
To sum it up, Nodame Cantabile Finale is a seriously satisfying conclusion to a wonderful series. It hits all the right notes with its story, animation, and characters, eventually culminating in a beautiful harmony that leaves the viewer with a sense of fulfillment and joy. If you appreciate anime with depth, character growth, and gorgeous music, do not miss out on this masterpiece!
Final Verdict
In true Anime Critic style, the overall rating for Nodame Cantabile Finale is a strong 9/10. It offers a serene yet amusing anime experience that will have you whistling classical tunes for days to come. So, sit back, press play, and let the harmonious world of Nodame Cantabile Finale consume you.
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