Winter 2015
Ansatsu Kyoushitsu
LercheTucked in the mountains near the elite Kunugigaoka Middle School lies a small derelict building that houses the delinquents and dropouts of Class 3-E. Looked down upon by their peers, the students in this class appear to have little hope in advancing their academic careers. That is, until the national government tasks them with eliminating the greatest threat to their planet: their new teacher.
Having already destroyed the moon, the octopus-like professor—dubbed "Koro-sensei"—has now threatened to destroy the Earth by March of the following year. In light of their mission, the students have found that killing him is easier said than done. Not only can Koro-sensei move at speeds of up to Mach 20, but he can also resist almost every earthly weapon. Ironically, he also proves to be one of the best teachers Class 3-E has ever had. Training the class to excel in both their studies as students and skills as assassins, Koro-sensei is confident that his students' ingenuity and indomitable will could return them to the main campus.
Through trial and error, Nagisa Shiota, as well as the other students of Class 3-E, must figure out Koro-sensei's weaknesses—and fast, for the very fate of the world depends upon it.
Sink Your Teeth into the Complex Blend of Humor and Emotion: Ansatsu Kyoushitsu (Assassination Classroom) Review
Welcome one, welcome all, my beloved anime enthusiasts! Your distinguished Anime Critic is here, ready to delve into yet another exciting and engulfing anime. This time it’s about none other than the sublime spectacle, Ansatsu Kyoushitsu, or, as many of you likely know this masterpiece, “Assassination Classroom”. Strap in and hold tight as we embark on the journey to navigate through the depths of this animation marvel.
Ansatsu Kyoushitsu swings its way with a rather unconventional plot that is as thrilling as it is ingenious. A tale of an alien-like creature, whose contour resembles that of a jolly octopus but sports the intelligence and destructive potential to decimate the Moon into a permanent crescent. Now, this protagonist presents an ultimatum to the Earthlings: if they can’t assassinate him before their graduation, he’ll annihilate the Earth!
And here’s the kicker. Our “octopus”, rather nonchalantly, becomes the homeroom teacher of class 3-E at Kunugigaoka Junior High School! This class are now bearing the weighty responsibility of saving Earth but they’re also dealing with the regular tribulations of school life and the complexities of growing up. With every page turned and every minute watched, the story unfolds an entrancing mix of humor, emotion, and suspense that keeps you glued to the screen or the book.
Storyline & Characters
Yes folks, it can seem a tad bit odd initially. “So, students trying to murder their teacher?”. It’s exactly this unique plotline that weaves the notable charm of Ansatsu Kyoushitsu. The storyline expertly combines an evident dash of humor with layers of emotional depth rarely seen in such a setting. It smartly plays out the peculiar relationship between the students and “Koro-sensei” (The unkillable teacher), highlighting their evolution, as they transform from reluctant assassins to individuals with refined character and a deep sense of camaraderie.
Animation & Sound
The animation in Ansatsu Kyoushitsu can only be described as fantastic and immersive to the core. Slick fight sequences, rich and varying color palettes, and details that specifically cater to the comedic factor as well as the emotional turmoils are spread flawlessly across. The sound design is purely phenomenal! The diverse opening and ending themes perfectly convey the varying moods of the anime, and the background score does an impeccable job of elevating the storytelling.
Final Word
So, should you dive into the world of Ansatsu Kyoushitsu? If you enjoy a balanced blend of comedy, action, and sentiment, within a story that breaks from cliches and offers an original narrative, then my answer is a resounding YES! Stream, rent, or buy— Ansatsu Kyoushitsu is a series that deserves to be appreciated and relished. Worth every penny and every second you invest!
This is your Anime Critic, signing out for now but rest assured, I’ll return with more thrilling reviews soon. Remember folks, keep the love for anime alive!
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Death Parade
MadhouseAfter death, either Heaven or Hell awaits most humans. But for a select few, death brings them to Quindecim—a bar where only pairs of people who die at the same time can enter. Attending the bar is an enigmatic figure known as Decim, who also acts as the arbiter. He passes judgment on those who wind up at Quindecim by challenging them to a life-threatening game. These games determine if the patron's soul will reincarnate into a new life, or be sent into the void, never to be seen again.
From darts and bowling to fighting games, the true nature of each patron slowly comes to light as they wager their souls. Though his methods remain unchanged, the sudden appearance of a black-haired amnesiac causes Decim to reevaluate his own rulings.
Death Parade: An Ethereal Insight into The Afterlife
Welcome back, anime enthusiasts. Today, we’ll be diving deep into Death Parade, an intriguing anime series that delves into the concept of the afterlife. This thought-provoking anime offers a unique take on the age-old question – What happens after we die?
The story unfolds in a mysterious space named Quindecim, managed by enigmatic bartenders known as arbiters. Strangers arrive in pairs, with no memory of how they ended up there, and are asked to participate in seemingly arbitrary games. However, these games are anything but ordinary; they act as trials, determining whether the individual is destined for reincarnation or absolute oblivion. Underneath the chilling concept, Death Parade brilliantly encapsulates human emotions, prejudices, and the undying quest for justice.
Engaging Plot and Masterful Storytelling
The brilliance of Death Parade is in its intricate framework. The narrative unfolds episodically, with each installment throwing light on a new pair of guests grappling with the games’ intensifying stakes. Though the premise may sound grim, the anime wisely avoids overemphasizing the sorrowful aspects, instead focusing on the essence of human existence and its value.
A significant feature of Death Parade is its moral ambiguity. Unlike typical anime, there’s no clear hero or villain. The series poses difficult questions about morality, regret, and remorse that maintains a mature, philosophical engagement without compromising on entertainment value.
Startling Character Development
While the series’ central premise feeds off character backstories, it’s the portrayal of the arbiters that steals the limelight. Decim, with his enigmatic personality, evokes a peculiar curiosity. His transformation throughout the series is beautifully illustrated, making him the anchoring point of the storytelling process.
The prominent essence of Death Parade involves not just the narrative episode stories but also the personal journeys of the arbiters, adding an intriguing layer to the already multifaceted narrative.
Artwork and Soundtrack: A Visual and Auditory Treat
The anime’s art style is exceptionally rendered, and the vibrant color palette plays well with the contrasting themes of life and death. The fantastic opening theme “Flyers” by BRADIO, and the soulful ending theme “Last Theatre” by NoisyCell resonate with the series’ encompassing melancholy.
Final verdict? Death Parade is a must-watch for anime fans craving an intellectually stimulating, emotionally resonant series. Whether to stream, rent, or buy completely depends on your viewing preferences. With its mesmerizing narrative and unforgettable characters, it’s definitely worth adding to your collection.
The Anime Critic’s Score: 8.5/10 – An Intriguing Journey into The Afterlife
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Durarara!!x2 Shou
ShukaAlthough peace has finally returned to Ikebukuro, many of the odd occurrences have become common sights around the city. One such case is the police's constant pursuit of Celty Sturluson, the Headless Rider. Moreover, someone has placed a large bounty on her, igniting the motivation of gang members all over to begin searching for the supernatural creature as well. Meanwhile, Mikado Ryuugamine is approached by Aoba Kuronuma, a mysterious underclassman with unknown intentions, who reveals that he knows Mikado's true identity.
But Ikebukuro's state of tranquility is short-lived, as a new threat appears in the form of a murderer who goes by the pseudonym "Hollywood," known for wearing a different mask each time they commit a crime. As the various events taking place prove to be connected yet again, Ikebukuro is thrown into another conflict that threatens to engulf the entire city in chaos.
Synopsis
Durarara!!x2 Shou thrives in the chaotic and supernatural-filled district of Ikebukuro, Tokyo. With an array of colorful characters each carrying their extraordinary stories, the anime is a mash-up of surreal and everyday scenarios. Ikebukuro is a breeding ground for rumors and strange incidents revolving around an anonymous gang known as “The Dollars,” the urban legend of the Headless Rider, and the existence of supernatural entities. Our main protagonist, Ryūgamine Mikado, a countryside boy, moves to Ikebukuro interested in the hip urban life, only to be pulled into the city’s surreal underbelly.
Durarara!!x2 Shou is the sequel to the highly acclaimed Durarara!! series. As Mikado and his friends continue their adventure, they meet new characters and face even more bizarre events. The narrative adds more layers to the characters as the plot thickens, and their interpersonal relationships get even more complicated. As rival gangs clash and secrets unravel, Ikebukuro continues to be a boiling pot of unpredictable and exciting anomalies. Now, allow me to dissect more in this review without divulging any spoilers.
Review
Durarara!!x2 Shou does not just meet the expectations set from its prequel, but it exceeds them. It finely weaves the new plotlines with already existing ones, alongside introducing new characters without taking the spotlight from our beloved original cast. The anime retains its complexity, offering an intriguing storyline that keeps you hooked till the end.
The character art is unique and colorful, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The animation lays out Ikebukuro’s hustle and bustle in stunning detail, thus capturing the city’s chaotic energy. One of Durarara!!x2 Shou’s strengths is its expert use of sound design to create atmospheric tension, with stand-out opening and closing credit sequences that are whimsical and catchy.
At the core of this series are its characters. Amid all the supernatural ruckus, the anime gives depth to each character through their personal struggles, making it easy for the audience to connect with them. Each character has a rich backstory that interlinks cleverly with the overarching narrative. Durarara!!x2 Shou does an excellent job of fleshing out its primary and secondary characters, making their interactions and their impacts on the main plot exceptionally realistic and relatable.
The series retains its unique storytelling style—revealing its plot in fragments—only to tie it all together at the end. It holds its own in the realm of suspense, mystery, and even comedy, cleverly juxtaposing contrasting elements to create a captivating and truly unique storyline. Not to forget, the unexpected plot twists that will leave viewers wanting more.
In conclusion, Durarara!!x2 Shou is a perfect blend of intense supernatural experiences and stark human realities. Its engaging characters, intriguing plotlines, and exciting twists create a memorable anime experience. Whether you decide to rent, buy, or stream this anime, it’s worth your time and investment. This anime gets a hearty recommendation from “The Anime Critic.” Happy watching, fellow Otaku!
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Go! Princess Precure
Toei AnimationEver since she was young, Haruka Haruno has always aspired to become a princess. Despite being mocked for this seemingly childish wish, Haruka perseveres to make her dream a reality, ultimately culminating in her acceptance into the prestigious Noble Academy—the birthplace of people's fantasies.
When Haruka arrives at her new school, a chance encounter with a pair of magical creatures influences a series of unbelievable events, and Haruka awakens as "Cure Flora," the princess of blooming flowers. After two of Haruka's classmates also transform into legendary princesses, a story of self-discovery unfolds as the newfound team "Princess Precure" carries the responsibility of protecting everyone's dreams. Engaged in a battle between hope and despair, Haruka may find the key toward becoming the princess she has always dreamed to be.
A Crown of Dreams – Go! Princess Precure Anime Review
Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the enchanting world of Go! Princess Precure. Our tale begins with the young and energetic Haruka Haruno, who dreams of one day becoming a princess like those in her favorite fairy tales. This dream is supposedly fueled by a mysterious encounter in her childhood with a prince who gave her a beautiful, heart-shaped charm. However, reality often clashes with fantasy and Haruka’s visionaries often meet the mundane world’s harsh ridicule.
That’s until she enrolls in the prestigious Noble Gakuen where she meets the mascots Pafu and Aroma of the Hope Kingdom. They reveal that the coveted charm Haruka holds is the Princess Perfume, which grants her the power to transform into a member of the Princess Precure to fight against the menacing forces of Dys Dark. Joined later by her friends Minami and Kirara, all three shoulder the monumental task of restoring dreams and hope to the world. And so starts our journey into this riveting world of dreams and magic.
Storyline and Character Development
One of the lasting appeals of Go! Princess Precure lies in its vibrant and robust storytelling. The typical magical girl trope is enhanced here by a strong narrative that focuses on the personal growth of Haruka and her friends. The show does an excellent job at balancing heart-touching moments with fast-paced action, all centered around the theme of dreams and aspirations.
As characters, Haruka, Minami, and Kirara are beautifully written. Their struggles towards fulfilling their dreams while juggling their duties as Precures form the backbone of the series. They embody the essence of chasing dreams while being strong role models for their audience. Even the villains have depth to them beyond one-note evil personas.
Artwork and Animation
The art style of Go! Princess Precure is arguably one of its greatest strengths. The animation boasts beautiful character designs that are accompanied by highly detailed settings. Whether it’s an action-packed Precure battle or the architectural grandeur of Noble Gakuen, the visuals are colorful, eye-catching, and they add significantly to the overall viewing experience.
Music and Soundtrack
A mention of Go! Princess Precure would not be complete without praising its spectacular music. The soundtrack masterfully amplifies the storytelling, while the catchy opening theme, “Miracle Go! Princess Precure” and splendid ending themes truly embody the series’ spirit. The voice cast deserves a special mention for bringing the characters to life in such a relatable manner.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, Go! Princess Precure is an immensely enjoyable magical girl show that combines the colourfulness of the genre with a deep exploration of dreams and the literal and metaphorical battles one faces while following them. The anime flourishes in its blend of entertainment and deeper themes making it a must-watch whether you’re a long-time fan of precure, or if you’re a newcomer to the genre. So, should you rent, buy or stream Go! Princess Precure? If you ask me, it’s absolutely worth being in any anime collection so fire up that Blu-ray, DVD, or your favorite streaming app and give it a go!
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JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken Part 3: Stardust Crusaders 2nd Season
David ProductionJoutarou Kuujou and his allies have finally made it to Egypt, where the immortal Dio awaits. Upon their arrival, the group gains a new comrade: Iggy, a mutt who wields the Stand "The Fool." It's not all good news however, as standing in their path is a new group of Stand users who serve Dio, each with a Stand representative of an ancient Egyptian god. As their final battle approaches, it is a race against time to break Joutarou's mother free from her curse and end Dio's reign of terror over the Joestar family once and for all.
JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken Part 3: Stardust Crusaders 2nd Season Review
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders 2nd Season concludes the globe-trotting epic that began in its first season. The daring Joestar crew, accompanied by their mysterious Stands, undertakes an exciting expedition across different countries in order to save their beloved Jotaro’s mother, Holly, from a deadly curse. Her life is put at risk when a centuries-old vampire DIO, bearing unprecedented Stand abilities, awakens from his long sleep.
The trip, initially hitched upon by Joseph Joestar and his grandson Jotaro Kujo, takes an unexpected forbidden twist. They meet various allies like Jean Pierre Polnareff, Noriaki Kakyoin, Muhammad Avdol, and Iggy the dog on the way to Egypt. Each character adds depth to the story, but they all share one common goal; to defeat DIO and save Holly Joestar.
Story and Characters
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders 2nd Season is a wild ride brimming with unpredictable, high-stakes showdowns and a profound portrayal of character strengths and weakness. Each encounter is structured like a mini-mystery puzzle, with the ingenious stand powers requiring tactical thinking from the protagonists. Visual symbolism, clever foreshadowing, and well-structured narrative arcs make it a standout entry in the JoJo franchise.
The diversity in the cast does wonders for the narrative. Each character has a unique background and elements that draw you in. Author Hirohiko Araki boldly gives attention to every character, offering dynamic interactions and balances the focus between them in such a way that you legitimately care about every one of them.
Animation and Sound
Visually, Stardust Crusaders 2nd Season surpasses its predecessor. David Production delivers captivating character designs, fluid animations, and vividly detailed scenarios. The animation is punchy, colorful, and does an exceptional job of capturing the larger-than-life battles without sacrificing detail or quality.
Sound design is crucial in anime and “Stardust Crusaders” hits all the right notes. The voice acting passionately brings out the characters’ emotions, enriched by a background soundtrack that amplifies the intensity of fight scenes and the drama of climactic moments.
Final Thoughts
JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken Part 3: Stardust Crusaders 2nd Season trumps its predecessor in nearly all aspects. It’s a high-octane rollercoaster of emotional depth, stunning visuals, and unforgettable battles. This is a series that will keep you on edge from start to finish, leaving you yearning for more. Whether you’re a fan of the previous parts or new to the JoJo’s world, I highly recommend you to watch this undeniably fantastic season.
Rent, Buy or Stream?
Considering its gripping narrative, stunning dynamic visuals, and immersive sound experience, it is definitely a worthy addition to your collection, and I would recommend buying it. However, if you prefer to take it episode by episode, it is also available on streaming platforms, but be warned – once you start, it’s hard to stop!
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Kamisama Hajimemashita◎
TMS EntertainmentNanami Momozono and her familiars Tomoe and Mizuki have survived quite a few challenges since Nanami took up the mantle of Mikage Shrine's patron god. Naturally, the wind god Otohiko comes to invite Nanami to the Divine Assembly in Izumo, the home of the gods, and Nanami chooses to take Mizuki with her, leaving Tomoe to pose as her at school. However, she has an ulterior motive for attending the Divine Assembly: to discover the whereabouts of the missing Lord Mikage, the former god of the shrine.
After her adventures in Izumo, Nanami meets Botanmaru, a tengu child looking for someone she knows all too well—tengu turned goth idol Shinjirou Kurama. Botanmaru needs Shinjirou, their prince, to return home to Mount Kurama and stop the tyranny of Jirou, who has taken over the rule of their hometown. However, Nanami soon discovers a force much darker than Jirou is at work on the mountain.
As a fledgling god becoming more accustomed to divinity, Nanami finds herself dealing with a tengu rebellion, her blooming feelings for Tomoe, and a strange man with ties to both Tomoe's past and Nanami's future.
Kamisama Hajimemashita Generous♪ Synopsis♫
Our journey through Kamisama Hajimemashita◎, or “Kamisama Kiss Season 2” as it’s known in the English-speaking community, sees us once again following the experiences of the lead character, Nanami Momozono. Accidental god, high school student, and love-struck teen, Nanami has been dropped unceremoniously into the role of the deity of Mikage Shrine after her father racks up insurmountable debt and takes flight, leaving her homeless.
The story takes off where the last season concluded, with our heroine further exploring the supernatural world she’s become a part of, while dealing with typical, everyday teenage woes. Like its predecessor, Kamisama Hajimemashita◎ presents a beautiful balance between the mundane issues of high school life and the mystical world of the gods and their familiars. As she tries to navigate these two worlds, our Nanami finds that it’s not as simple as it may seem.
The Anime Critic’s Chronicles: Kamisama Hajimemashita ◎ Review
Alright folks, let me loosen my tie and roll up my sleeves, because, baby, do we have a lot to unpack! Familiars, gods, romance, comedy, Kamisama Hajimemashita◎ seriously has it all. Subtlety and nuance are the keystones of this series, even when bedecked in a frivolous, romantic-comedy setup.
One of the most eye-catching aspects is the compelling character development. Nanami has undergone considerable growth since season 1; her evolution from despondent homeless teenager to a resolute, responsible god is nothing short of admirable. Our stoic fox familiar, Tomoe, has also seen some changes, showing a softer side that’s not just appealing, but downright irresistible!
Visuals, people, are another aspect where Kamisama Hajimemashita◎ excels. The art style accentuates Japan’s rich culture and mythology, giving each scene a touch of tradition and color. The series is a visual feast, with rich hues and elegant detailing that only add to the overall appeal of this romantic, supernatural tale.
Moving on to the engine that drives this series – the Storyline. Oh, what a twisty, turny, roller-coaster ride it is! Each episode peels back a layer from the previous, revealing newer and more complex facets of the characters and their relationships. You’re never stuck on a single plot point for too long, and yet it never feels rushed. Just a perfect balance between progressing the storyline and exploring the characters.
Absolutely must mention the fantastic soundtrack! The opening track is an earworm that sets the perfect tempo, and the background score hits all the right notes at precisely the right time. It takes a special kind of skill to evoke emotions with just music, and this show does it spectacularly well.
In conclusion, Kamisama Hajimemashita◎ is an anime that creates a subtle and tantalizing fusion of the ordinary and extraordinary. It’s a romantic-comedy, it’s a supernatural drama, it’s a high school coming-of-age tale, all rolled into one.
Whether you choose to rent, buy, or stream it, Kamisama Hajimemashita◎ is a series worth investing your time in, providing lessons about life, love, and finding yourself. Ready your heart to experience excitement, heartbreak, love, and growth!
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Kuroko no Basket 3rd Season
Production I.GSeirin prepares to face major obstacles on their path to winning the Winter Cup, including the teams each possessing a member of the Generation of Miracles. Kuroko goes head-to-head with his old teammates once more as he attempts to show them that individual skill is not the only way to play basketball. His firm belief that his form of basketball, team play, is the right way to play the sport will clash with the talents of a perfect copy and an absolute authority.
While Kuroko tries to prove that his basketball is "right," he and the rest of Seirin High ultimately have one goal: to win the Winter Cup and overcome the strength of the Generation of Miracles, who have long dominated the scene of middle and high school basketball.
Kuroko no Basket 3rd Season – Dribble into the Heart of Action!
A Synopsis: Amidst the hustle and bustle of the basketball court, the echoes of blood-thirsty competition, and the unending clamor for victory, rests the storyline of Kuroko no Basket 3rd Season. Known as “The Basketball Which Kuroko Plays” in Japan, it narrates the burning endeavors of the under-recognized player, Tetsuya Kuroko. He is a member of the feared and unbeatable team of five, “Generation of Miracles.” But, with their disbandment, Kuroko joins Seirin High School’s basketball team, determined to prove that basketball is not a one-man game.
Unlike previous seasons, the 3rd Season signifies a thrilling and nerve-wrenching tournament, the ‘Winter Cup.’ Teiko Middle School’s ‘Generation of Miracles’ splits among diverse High school basketball teams, igniting fierce rivalries. Even as drama unfolds, friendships are tested, and rivalries peak, Kuroko and his friends at Seirin aim to clinch the Winter Cup crown against all odds.
Powerful Characters And Visual Impact
One of the chief strengths of Kuroko no Basket 3rd Season is the in-depth character portrayals. The further evolution of the protagonist Kuroko’s subtle strength, Kagami’s raw power, Aomine’s agility, or Akashi’s commanding presence on the court all add a fascinating angle to the show.
Then there are the striking visuals. The kinetic animation, coupled with gargantuan care over details, forms a visually stunning basketball experience. The slam dunks feel as thrilling as a real live game. The creators have outdone themselves in making the viewer feel a part of the high-stakes matches.
Gripping Storyline And Eminent Action
The 3rd season retains the unique storytelling style of its predecessors, emphasizing it’s not just about basketball but the characters themselves. Each match doesn’t only mean victory or loss, but an experienced journey for every character. It tastefully mixes the feeling of fierce competition and narratives about friendship, camaraderie, discipline, and most importantly, team spirit.
The action sequences retain their exalted reputation. High-speed dribbles, breathtaking dunk shots, tactical strategies, all contribute to an adrenaline-pumping basketball action.
To Conclude
Kuroko no Basket 3rd Season is a must-watch in my books! Whether you’re a devoted sports anime fanatic or a nonchalant viewer, this anime creates a mesmerizing space for all. Its spectacular animation, gripping storyline, and compelling characters make it a staple in any ardent anime lover’s collection.
Binoculars on edge, folks, as you step into Kuroko’s world because you find yourself not just watching, but screaming, cheering, and celebrating with the Seirin High School Team. So, if you’re checking it out for the first time or rewatching it, rent it, buy it, or stream it, you’re in for a thrilling joyride with this anime.
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