Winter 2016
Akagami no Shirayuki-hime 2nd Season
BonesShirayuki and Zen Wistalia have finally confirmed their romantic feelings for each other, and everyone has resumed their daily lives. Shirayuki remains an apprentice court herbalist at the royal palace of Clarines, and Zen continues his duties alongside his aides.
However, their daily routines are disrupted when Crown Prince Izana, Zen’s older brother, receives an invitation from Raji Shenazard, the prince of Tanbarun. The herbalist finds herself ordered to go to Tanbarun for seven days, to build a new friendship with the formerly selfish and haughty ruler who once ordered Shirayuki to become his concubine. Along the way, Shirayuki is bound to run into trouble once again, as she is sought by a mysterious boy named Kazuki, someone she has never met.
Synopsis of Akagami no Shirayuki-hime 2nd Season
As all folklore lovers out there well know, the Snow White story has been told countless times over. However, “Akagami no Shirayuki-hime 2nd Season” (or “Snow White with the Red Hair, Second Season”), this time charm us all anew with its unique spin on this beloved story. The story unfurls in a beautifully crafted world, where we follow the life of Shirayuki, a young woman blessed with unique apple-red hair. This fiery haired herbalist encounters Prince Raji, who becomes smitten by her. But instead of falling for the prince’s charms, she cuts her hair, escaping into the forest where she meets the kind-hearted Prince Zen.
In the second season, Shirayuki deepens her understanding and deepens her relationship with the altruistic Prince Zen and his two close friends, Mitsuhide and Kiki. The series continues with the duo battling the issues around them, challenging societal norms of status and nobility, while at the same time navigating their developing feelings for each other, inevitably setting them up for an unforgettable journey of romance and adventure.
Review of Akagami no Shirayuki-hime 2nd Season
Where do I start? This continuation of the adorable love story between our heroine Shirayuki and her prince has successfully attracted countless anime lovers since the release of its first season, and it’s not hard to see why. The animation is top-notch, with the backdrop of a beautifully crafted medieval world filled with detailed sceneries and vibrant colors, effectively pulling us into the storyline.
Showing great improvement from its first season, “Akagami no Shirayuki-hime 2nd Season” holds its storyline tighter and develops character arcs even more beautifully. Each character interacts more, and their relationships are now more complex and richer, making us return to each episode with enthusiasm.
Shirayuki, our redhead Snow White, continues to impress us with her intelligence, kindness, and sheer will to stand against the odds. Prince Zen, with his unyielding respect for Shirayuki’s independence and his determination to protect his beloved, is refreshing in an ocean of cliché prince-charming characters.
The soundtrack does a significant job of enhancing the scenes, be it a moment of high tension or of tender love. It’s the kind of music score that will continue to play in your mind even after you’ve walked away from the screen.
To stream or to own? That’s where the decision might become tough for fans. Buying or renting will promise a lag-free experience and absolute convenience, especially for those planning on a “binge” session. However, streaming from legal platforms can also provide excellent service while being cost-effective.
Providing a wholesome viewing experience, the “Akagami no Shirayuki-hime 2nd Season” successfully marries the romance and action genres into one visually stunning package. Its elaborate storyline, skilful character development, and magnificent art style truly makes it a must-watch!
So fans, whether you decide to rent, buy, or stream, trust that this anime is definitely one that deserves a spot on your watchlist.
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Ansatsu Kyoushitsu 2nd Season
LercheReturning from their summer vacation, the students of Class 3-E at the prestigious Kunugigaoka Middle School find themselves up against unbeatable odds. Faced with the possibility of world annihilation, the students must come up with increasingly elaborate and creative ways to kill their teacher, the cunning yet optimistic and helpful Koro-sensei.
However, eliminating Koro-sensei is not the only objective the students need to worry about. Gakuhou Asano, the academy's merciless and cruel principal, seeks to prevent Class 3-E's success by brainwashing his other hard-working pupils into ruthlessly competitive studying machines. Hostility begins to linger in the air as traitors and killers alike attempt to claim the bounty on Koro-sensei's head for themselves.
Nagisa Shiota, one of Class 3-E's most skilled assassins, finds himself in the middle of the conflict. While he works to maintain his academic standing and prevent the end of the world, domestic affairs jeopardize his place in Class 3-E. Together with his dedicated classmates, he must now face the threats head-on.
Ansatsu Kyoushitsu (Assassination Classroom) 2nd Season – An Unforgettable Dive into Exciting Adventure!
Coasting on the momentum of its first season, the second part of Ansatsu Kyoushitsu (Assassination Classroom) returns with a bang, resuming the daring endeavor of E-Class students who are on a mission to assassinate their octopus-like alien teacher, Koro-Sensei. However, there’s a spaghetti-like twist packing quite a punch: Koro-sensei is no ordinary teacher but a potential destroyer of the Earth, who is ironically also the warmest and most caring educator. All the more reason to assassinate him, right?
Well, that’s where the irony so tastefully flavors the storyline. The students, initially driven by their murderous mission, gradually start to appreciate the overall eccentricities of Koro-sensei, his unique teaching style, and the life-lessons he delivers. Deep down, they are conflicted. In the consciousness of this confusion, the second season of Ansatsu Kyoushitsu treats us to an unbelievably thrilling narrative with adventure, camaraderie, character growth, shenanigans, and emotional upheavals.
Plot Progression and Character Development – We Applaud!
The second season unfolds brilliantly, keeping you hooked till the very end. The upgrade in the storyline, the thrilling arcs, and the character growth are astronomical. Group strategies become the highlight, letting individual characters to excel proving that teamwork is indeed dream-work.
From Nagisa’s blooming assassination techniques to Karma’s tactical genius, from Kanzaki’s courage to Kayano’s daredevilry, each character idolizes the theme of growth and boosts the comedic yet heartfelt essence of the storyline. Truly, it’s not just the characters in the anime who are getting an education, it’s us – the viewers!
Art and Animation – Every Episode is Art on Display
Lerche studio outdid itself with stunning and seamless animation! Vibrant colors and detailed visuals support the heightened drama, while the comedic moments are accentuated by dynamic art. Koro-sensei’s detailed expressions, students’ transformations, and picturesque sceneries – all make the visual treat even more inviting.
Music and Voice Acting – Melody and Madness
Strong opening and ending themes carry forward the vigorous spirit of the anime. Background scores are so fitting to the scenes, making you feel every emotion. Japanese voice cast has done a truly outstanding job, with Jun Fukuyama (voice of Koro-Sensei) deserving a standing ovation!
Final Words – To Watch or Not to Watch
Should you watch Ansatsu Kyoushitsu 2nd season? Heck Yeah! You can’t miss out on this rollercoaster of excitement, laughs, and life lessons. Whether to rent, buy, or stream, the important thing is you watch it. Believe me, folks, this one has ‘Legendary’ written in its DNA!
Wrapping up, Assassination Classroom 2nd Season bags a whopping 9/10 on the Anime Critic’s Scoreboard for its immaculate blend of comedy, action, suspense, and unpredictable plot-twists. So folks, it’s homework time, and your assignment is to catch this series NOW!
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Boku dake ga Inai Machi
A-1 PicturesWhen tragedy is about to strike, Satoru Fujinuma finds himself sent back several minutes before the accident occurs. The detached, 29-year-old manga artist has taken advantage of this powerful yet mysterious phenomenon, which he calls "Revival," to save many lives.
However, when he is wrongfully accused of murdering someone close to him, Satoru is sent back to the past once again, but this time to 1988, 18 years in the past. Soon, he realizes that the murder may be connected to the abduction and killing of one of his classmates, the solitary and mysterious Kayo Hinazuki, that took place when he was a child. This is his chance to make things right.
Boku dake ga Inai Machi follows Satoru in his mission to uncover what truly transpired 18 years ago and prevent the death of his classmate while protecting those he cares about in the present.
SYNOPSIS
Boku dake ga Inai Machi, known as “Erased” in the Western world, is an intriguing Japanese anime series that follows Satoru Fujinuma, a struggling manga artist with a unique ability to jump back in time. This extraordinary power, which he calls “Revival,” enables him to forestall life-threatening disasters. However, this ability is beyond his control as it is triggered spontaneously, forcing Satoru to mitigate the aftermath of such cataclysms.
The storyline catapults into a high-stakes mystery when a tragic event in his personal life sends Satoru eighteen years into the past. He finds himself in the body of his eleven-year-old self, with a chance to prevent a nefarious incident that ruined his future. Reliving his childhood, he’s grappling with a chilling case of child abductions and murders that directly link to his personal tragedy in the present day.
REVIEW
Boku dake ga Inai Machi blurs the boundaries of time-travel tropes, psychological thriller, and crime drama, wrapping it into a beautifully packaged anime visual narrative. Let’s dig into the rabbit hole that Satoru’s journey takes us on.
Firstly, the characters are intricately nuanced and well-drawn out. Satoru, as the protagonist, is not your typical hero, but his subjective moral compass combined with his profound empathy, makes him compellingly relatable in both his adult and child form. The secondary cadre also breathes life into the plot, each having a strong presence and adding layers to the story.
STORYTELLING AND PACE
The overall pacing is done expertly, building suspense gradually amid the quiet suburban landscapes. The story doesn’t shy away from showcasing the darker realities of society, making us question everything we think we know. The narrative dives deep into the psychology of its characters, unraveling their motivations and fears – a factor that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
ART AND ANIMATION
Kei Sanbe’s manga couldn’t have been adapted in a more visually distinct and appealing manner. A-1 Pictures’ animation draws you in from the get-go. Every frame is meticulously designed, and the colour palette perfectly encapsulates the narrative’s mood swings. The atmospheric sceneries, sublime character designs and the myriad of detailed facial expressions instill a distinct believable reality to this fictional world.
SOUNDTRACK AND THEMES
Yuki Kajiura’s soundtrack complements this anime superbly. The iconic opening theme “Re:Re:” by Asian Kung-Fu Generation summarises the entire narrative in its visual and audio splendor. Coupled with the dramatic themes of destiny, childhood innocence, and the constant struggle of good versus evil, the sonic landscape resonates brilliantly throughout the series.
Boku dake ga Inai Machi creates a captivating mixture of emotion and suspense, driving a gripping narrative that will leave you craving for more by each episode’s conclusion. It does not just weave a story; it examines life’s complicated web. Whether you decide to rent, buy, or stream this anime, you’ll find that Erased is genuinely a worthy investment of your time. A must-see for any anime enthusiast.
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Durarara!!x2 Ketsu
ShukaAs Mikado Ryuugamine continues to purge the Dollars from within in accordance with his warped sense of justice, Masaomi Kida hopes to bring his friend back to his senses by bringing the Yellow Scarves together once more. Little do they know that a far more dominant force is about to enter their struggle for power, one that their friend Anri Sonohara is all too familiar with.
Meanwhile, the group that has gathered at Shinra Kishitani's apartment realizes that they are on the brink of something life-changing, an event that will throw Ikebukuro into a spiral of confusion. Their anxiety is realized when reports of Celty's head being found in public start to appear all over the news as Kasane Kujiragi begins to make her move.
Gone are the brief periods of tranquility as the current turmoil sets the stage for one final performance in this thrilling conclusion to the story of Ikebukuro's finest.
Anime Title: Durarara!!x2 Ketsu
In the bustling backstreets of Ikebukuro, the city’s street gangs, the Dollars and the Yellow Scarves, vie for dominance amidst strange, mystical activities. At the heart of these enigmatic happenings is the Headless Rider, Celty Sturluson, who has become a figure of fear and fascination for the city’s inhabitants. Around her, a variety of colorful characters – ordinary students, spritely otakus, dangerous gang leaders, supernatural beings, and downright eccentric individuals – become entwined in the mysteries of Ikebukuro.
But as a consequence of these events, tensions rise among the city’s factions, threatening to plunge Ikebukuro into a full-blown turf war. As the city hurtles towards chaos, “Durarara!!x2 Ketsu” tells a tale of love, friendship, and the struggle to find oneself, set against the backdrop of this colorful, chaotic cityscape.
The Wonderful World of Durarara!!x2 Ketsu
As the final season of the “Durarara!!x2” trilogy, “Ketsu” is a brilliant balance of urban mythology and gritty realism that constantly keeps you on the edge of your seat. While it continues the tradition of the previous seasons, blending supernatural elements with a sharp, street-smart narrative, “Ketsu” uniquely injects a dose of heart and raw emotions into the proceedings, adding new layers to already complex and engaging characters.
Characters: The Heart of the Anime
What makes “Ketsu” really shine is its diverse and unique cast. Ikebukuro teems with fascinating, complex characters, each with their own personal stories, ideologies, and motivations. This season does an excellent job of developing these characters, fleshing out their personalities and evolving them in delightful and unexpected ways.
Animation & Music: In Perfect Sync
The animation of “Ketsu” can only be described as stunning. Whether it’s the vibrant, bustling cityscape of Ikebukuro or the adrenaline-pumping action sequences, the animation quality never drops. Paired with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that perfectly encapsulates the mood of the anime, the technical aspects of “Ketsu” are nothing short of spectacular.
Closing Thoughts: A Necessity for Anime Lovers
Whether you’re a fan of action-packed fantasy, intricate plotlines, or nuanced character development, “Durarara!!x2 Ketsu” offers all of this and more. This anime takes you on a wild, exhilarating ride through the intriguing labyrinth that is Ikebukuro, leaving you breathless and yearning for more. Therefore, for the seasoned anime enthusiast, looking to rent, buy, or stream a wonderful series, “Durarara!!x2 Ketsu” should be at the top of your list.
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Kanojo to Kanojo no Neko: Everything Flows
LIDENFILMS, LIDENFILMS Kyoto StudioFor the longest time, it's just been the two of them. "Kanojo" and her cat Daru are inseparable, having grown up together. Now a junior in college, Tomoka—her roommate of a year and a half—moves out of their shared apartment, and in order to keep her living space, Kanojo must find a job. Day by day, Daru watches her continued efforts from a cat's-eye view, eagerly awaiting his owner's return. When she gets back, once again, it's just she and her cat.
Kanojo to Kanojo no Neko: Everything Flows is a charming short series about the bond between a pet and his owner.
Synopsis:
“Pulled at your heartstrings yet? Get ready, because ‘Kanojo to Kanojo no Neko: Everything Flows’ or in English, ‘She and Her Cat: Everything Flows,’ is here to take you on an emotional journey that explores the endearing bond between a young woman and her black cat, Daru. Based on the award-winning work of Makoto Shinkai, this slice of life anime delves into themes of life, companionship, and the simple joys and sorrows that bind us.”
“As seen through the eyes of Daru, an ageing black cat with a mysterious past, we witness the struggles and triumphs of his human (a nameless university student aiming to make her mark in the world). As she takes on life’s challenges and the anxieties that adulthood brings, Daru provides a comforting presence, steadfast in his devotion to her. The viewer is treated to a heartfelt look at the unique language of love and trust that exists between a pet and its owner.”
The Anime Critic’s Review:
“Okay, let’s dive into this mini-series that has made waves in the anime community for its poignant storytelling. ‘Kanojo to Kanojo no Neko: Everything Flows’ is a 4-part anime short series that brings together all the elements that I personally look for in enjoyable anime: a well-developed story, emotional depth, relatable characters and, of course, stunning animation.”
“The story is relatively simple, focusing on the mundane aspects of life. But don’t be fooled, this simplicity breathes life into a profound narrative. Each episode takes a tender look at the everyday happenings of our unnamed protagonist and her beloved cat, Daru. But what makes this seemingly simple anime so beautifully immersive is the way it intelligently uses the perspective of Daru, the cat.”
“The animation won’t let you down either. It’s fluid, it’s soft on the eyes, and radiates warmth. I would happily give kudos to the animators at Liden Films and Satelight for not only visually telling this heartwarming tale, but also for their attention to detail, particularly in Daru’s animations that accurately captures the grace and curiosity of a feline.”
“The voice acting? Simply sublime. Daru’s calm, mature voice acting done by the talented Shintarō Asanuma gave the narrative an emotional depth that’ll leave a mark in your heart. His wisdom-strewn monologues will leave you pondering, long after the credits roll.”
“So, should you rent, buy, or stream ‘Kanojo to Kanojo no Neko: Everything Flows’? Absolutely. It’s a rather short investment in terms of time but it excels in leaving you with a memorable and emotional experience. It is a must-watch anime for me, and I highly recommend it to anyone, even to those whose anime favorites list doesn’t include slice of life stories. Trust the Anime Critic on this one. Indulge in this bittersweet tale of love and companionship, it’s worth your time.”
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Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo!
Studio DeenAfter dying a laughable and pathetic death on his way back from buying a game, high school student and recluse Kazuma Satou finds himself sitting before a beautiful but obnoxious goddess named Aqua. She provides the NEET with two options: continue on to heaven or reincarnate in every gamer's dream—a real fantasy world! Choosing to start a new life, Kazuma is quickly tasked with defeating a Demon King who is terrorizing villages. But before he goes, he can choose one item of any kind to aid him in his quest, and the future hero selects Aqua. But Kazuma has made a grave mistake—Aqua is completely useless!
Unfortunately, their troubles don't end here; it turns out that living in such a world is far different from how it plays out in a game. Instead of going on a thrilling adventure, the duo must first work to pay for their living expenses. Indeed, their misfortunes have only just begun!
Title: Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo! In-depth Anime Review by The Anime Critic
Synopsis
Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu
Studio DeenYotarou is a former yakuza member fresh out of prison and fixated on just one thing: rather than return to a life of crime, the young man aspires to take to the stage of rakugo, a traditional Japanese form of comedic storytelling. Inspired during his incarceration by the performance of distinguished practitioner Yakumo Yuurakutei, he sets his mind on meeting the man who changed his life. After hearing Yotarou's desperate appeal for his mentorship, Yakumo is left with no choice but to accept his very first apprentice.
As he eagerly begins his training, Yotarou meets Konatsu, an abrasive young woman who has been under Yakumo's care ever since her beloved father Sukeroku Yuurakutei, another prolific rakugo performer, passed away. Through her hidden passion, Yotarou is drawn to Sukeroku's unique style of rakugo despite learning under contrasting techniques. Upon seeing this, old memories and feelings return to Yakumo who reminisces about a much earlier time when he made a promise with his greatest rival.
Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is a story set in both the past and present, depicting the art of rakugo, the relationships it creates, and the lives and hearts of those dedicated to keeping the unique form of storytelling alive.
Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu: A Tale of a Forgotten Art
In the bustling heart of Tokyo, the 20th century has left its mark, and traditions are fading. “Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu” tells the story of one such tradition – the art of Rakugo, a form of Japanese comedic storytelling. It’s here that the ex-convict turned aspiring Rakugo artist, Yotarou, and the unremittingly stoic Rakugo master, Yakumo, intersect on their seemingly different paths. The one tied to the past, and one desperate to find his future.
The story winds back to the showa era, as Yakumo begins to narrate the epic tale of Rakugo’s history to Yotarou. From here, the series unfolds into a beautifully woven tale of art, love, betrayal, and the relentless ache of time. A saga that delves into the lives of the characters and their bond with the dying art of Rakugo.
Storyline And Themes
“Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu” is not just a narrative, it’s an experience. It’s a story that breathes life into a forgotten art and its artists. It illuminates, not just the struggles of these artists, but the beauty and the vivid intensity of their performances.
The storytelling, deeply reminiscent of classic Japanese literature, is focused and deliberate. Every word, every scene, every backdrop, contributes to the overall fabric of the narrative. The show does a remarkable job in presenting Rakugo – a craft that relies heavily on voice modulation and facial expressions, in a remarkably captivating manner.
Characterization
The characters are the heart and soul of “Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu”. Led by Yakumo and Yotarou, each character is meticulously developed throughout the series. Yakumo, with his frosty demeanor and intricate connection to the Rakugo world, is a fascinating study in depth and complexity.
Yotarou, on the other hand, embodies the hope and enthusiasm for the future of Rakugo. His journey from an ex-convict to a passionate artist laced with his humorous yet determined persona, is nothing short of inspirational. The dynamics between these two contrasting characters truly set the stage for an intriguing and emotionally captivating story.
Animation and Sound
The animation in the series is top-notch. It vividly captures the cultural aesthetics and the “Showa” era of Japan. The facial expressions and body language, which are crucial in presenting Rakugo, are executed brilliantly.
Furthermore, the soundscape of “Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu” is masterfully crafted. From the stirring traditional music to the highly nuanced voice acting, the sound design adds another layer of depth to the whole theatrical experience.
Final Verdict
Unique, emotionally stirring, and masterfully executed, “Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu” is truly a gem in the echelons of anime. It’s a compelling work of art that captures a heartfelt story about life, dreams, and the art of Rakugo.
If you’re a fan of profound and immersive storytelling, and love to explore beyond the norm of anime genres, then “Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu” is a must-watch. It is definitely worth its weight to buy, stream, or even rent!
Rating
Story: 10
Animation: 9.5
Sound: 10
Character: 9.7
Enjoyment: 9.9
Overall: 9.8
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