Basquash! Bandwidth Killer Pre-warning!
On the planet Earthdash, its inhabitants gaze on its moon and the technologically advanced lunar city of Mooneyes with awe. Dan JD, a boy living in Rollingtown on Earthdash’s surface, gets caught up in Bigfoot Basketball — a fast-paced sport played with giant Bigfoot robots.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Basquash is great! We already know that…
Well… for those who don’t, I’ll say it again. Basquash is the bestest awesomemestemest adrenalin pumping ass-WHOOPING coolestest anime ever!
It’s so great, I’m not even going to bother with a review. It’s a 5-Star, through and through. Instead, I’m going to spam about the elements of Basquash. Explained by a bogus theory I came up with. I think I’m going to call it the 5-B-Multiplier.
In a nutshell, Basquash is so great because it fully utilize the 5 B’s. Basketball, Bots, Babes, Balls and of course, Boobies. Put all these together, and the effect multiplies so great that Basquash achieves EPICDOM!
Let’s start with Basketball.
The basketball in Basquash is street style. Although, there are hints of a court style basketball existing in some scenes when Rouge called Dan JD to shoot a three pointer.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but there has not been a single basketball anime which flunked. Even Dear Boys, the anime featuring sissy guys. Which although wasn’t something I enjoyed, had a rather successful feedback. Despite having rock-bottom basketball animes like Buzzer Beater, more often than not, basketball animes will always receive a good response.
Anyway, who doesn’t love basketball?
*Points to the guy who raised his hand*
Ok, first, You need to hit the court. Try the game.
Off topic: I used to love watching NBA, back when Anfernee Hardaway and Shaq played for Orlando Magic. They were my favorite matchup. Then Shaq left Orlando and I never bothered with NBA ever again. Now, the game is just fucked up. There’s a foul every second, either that or everyone is too busy acting the man, calling each other’s moms or what not. Pfft…
Back on topic, So… Yeah… Basketball rocks. Especially Streetball!
I’d definitely join Streetball competitions if only I wasn’t so farking short.
Bots
If you haven’t learn by now, Bots are cool.
They do things normal humans can’t. They can cook, fly, has superhuman strength, blow buildings up, Split a planet to two. And yes, they can play Basketball, or rather, Basquash!
The bots in Basquash are known as Big Foots. Which I find the name really suitable, despite the foot of the bots NOT being big. Having a really rugged design really makes the Big Foot feels original. And they wear basketball shoes. I’ll be damned if that isn’t cool!
I wish I could elaborate more, but words fail me. And I just found out that it’s harder to talk about bots than to talk about female characters.
Babes
When I say babes, I actually do mean Rouge. She’s already hot as it is, but to pilot a bot and play basketball too. She’s also a little Tsundere. Dang! She’d fit me to a tee!
To Snark, SHE IS MINE!!! So she pilots a bot but I doubt she’s above legal age. Meaning she’s someone you shouldn’t take a liking too.
Oh Shit! Almost forgot to include Sela. Plays basketball, rides a Big Foot, also Hot! Although… cuming over watching or playing good basketball probably means I’ll never satisfy her. Cause my basketball sucks, HARD! I can’t shoot, score, block Jack. All I can ever do is steal. Pffft…
*Allow my slightly pedophile nature to take over*
Actually, I’m also rather fond of Alan Naismith. Short hair, Cap, mechanic clothing, Hot!
The moment she change back to her princess form however, she seemed like the dull brainless character you would find in Pretty Cure or some shit like that.
Oh by the way, I AM actually trying to get hold of this anime called Fresh Pretty Cure. LOLOLOL!!!
It’s switching fansubs like baby switches diapers. So my episodes are messed up. Anyone knows any reliable source? I’m guessing that’s how bad it is.
* Back to usual uptight self*
Balls
When I say Balls, I actually do mean it in a GAR manner.
“That guy’s got Ballsz!”
I would have used the word Boys, but it sounded under-manly.
The balls I mean is the type Dan JD lack restraint of. Him crashing around everywhere and anytime he wants to just refills the body of adrenalin over and over again. Even Dan’s pet/companion, Spanky, had balls.
Iceman has balls too. But he’s just too cool that it hides his manhood. Same goes for James Lone.
Iceman Approves!
Boobs
When I say boobs, I actually do mean Haruka and Miyuki. One representing Jupiter, another representing Neptune.
Unfortunately, like Jupiter, Haruka’s boobs were losing its ability to maintain a perfect sphere, due to the stronger gravity of earth which ultimately makes it sag, as opposed to the low gravity on moon. They actually mention the gravity-sagging-boobs in the anime by the way. As Jupiter, it is slowly “compressing”.
Miyuki’s however, still has a long way to go. Although she would definitely appeal to Ganguro lovers. xp
Violette’s boobs were just plain scary. It was as big as Haruka’s, but it didn’t look human.
So I took her out of the Boobs section.
Big, Chibi, HUGE!
Initially I wanted to keep this post short and direct. But I guess it turned out to have some SPAM after all.
Oh well, Might as well just add something which I didn’t thought of putting in…
Despite all the ass-kicking Basquash is, I have to say that the 2nd ending theme video was rubbish. The song was good. But the video was horrendous.
Random Shots…
Basquash!
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Baka-Updates
With this post over, I’d like everyone to meet my NEW imaginary waifu. Rouge…
Sorry Marin, our romance was short lived. Although you may be a replacement for Belldandy, but you don’t play basketball. And there are lonely nights when I’d wake up in the middle of the night and feel like playing basketball… among other things. Rouge and I, we were made for each other. So I bid thee farewell…
Umi Monogatari ~Anata ga Ite Kureta Koto~
The story centers on Marin and Urin, two “pure” sisters who live alongside the fish in the sea, but yearn to be in the world beyond the water and above ground. One day, a beautiful ring falls in the middle of the sea, and Marin and Urin retrieve it. The two decide to leave their waterbound world for the first time to deliver the ring. After an arduous journey, they come across an isolated island where a high school girl named Kanon lives. The encounter between Marin and Kanon — the maiden of the sea and the maiden of the skies — awakens a hidden power as the world is threatened by an enveloping darkness.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Look pass the moe, and you will find yourself watching a solidly packaged anime. I’m talking about a good story, throwing in a perfect mix of comedy, adventure, drama, and friendship. I wouldn’t say that it’s superior in any sense, just that it has a good enough of everything. Watch any episode and you’ll just know that this is some quality anime we’re talking about. But obviously, knowing the story from the start helps.
The most outstanding point of Umi Monogatari has got the be the animation. Freaking flawless I’d say. A little simple and bland when it comes to the drawing, but that’s what prevents it from making mistakes. K.I.S.S. terminology? Perhaps…
As for color wise, zen zen ni hyaku pasen!
Although I wished they could have pushed it up another level when it came to combat scenes. It’s not exactly dull, just feels a little “sailormoon”-ish. Talking about that, expect transformation scenes in this anime too. Lol!
Don’t say I didn’t warn ya!
I really enjoyed the comedy in Umi Monogatari. Slapsticks did not feel overplayed. Comedy line were short, direct, yet sarcastic enough to pack a little punch. And the facial expression was superb. To the point it adds a touch of finesse to the comedy.
Seems to me that most themes these days have reached a rather superior level. Yet another opening theme which I found myself trying to sing to. Violet by marble, give it a try, even if you don’t watch the anime. It’s quite a nice piece on its own.
I’d say bear with the first 3 episodes if you are looking for something slightly heavier. Only after that does things start to pick up, as characters face certain hardships. Some on their own, some faced together. But you can be sure that for every hardship they encounters, the character’s depth just increases. To the point of the final plot where it gets sad and I was really touched.
I find myself super fond of the slang Kanon, Suzuki or other islanders (in the anime) use. Similar to the slang Arumi from Abenobashi has. I’m guessing that it just feels fresh, sounding different than the normal speech style found in your usual animes.
Umi Monogatari ~Anata ga Ite Kureta Koto~
Rating: 5-Stars
TOrrents: Baka-Updates
So, with the review done, I should do a proper introduction.
Everyone… Say Hi to Marin, my new imaginary Waifu. If there was ever any replacement for Belldandy, Marin would be it.
Spice and Wolf II
Continuing where the first series left off, it follows Kraft Lawrence a experienced traveling merchant and his sharp tongued wolf god companion Horo on their journey to return to Horo’s home to the north called Yoitsu. A tender relationship has blossomed between the characters, as they make deals, travel between cities, encounter religious fanatics or vice versa and mostly just do what a traveling merchant has to do to get by.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
I haven’t seen how others rated Spice and Wolf Season 2, but it was underrated. Even if you gave it a full score it would still be underrated!
In Spice and Wolf II, we have probably the 2 smartest characters in anime history, Horo and Lawrence. I’m not talking about full scores in some high school exams, or those who can spout meaningless crap as Snark points out in this post. I’m talking about mature, street smart, realistic-like intelligence. Intelligence that actually makes perfect logical sense. Sometimes the conversation between Horo and Lawrence get so verbal that even I fail to comprehend (Watching too many animes and lack of human interaction does that to you). But even so, their body language, the face expression, the music, everything works out to fill in any doubt you might have.
The sarcasm is well treasured as it not only gives you a good laugh but gives you a chance to actually give your brain some work out. Yes! Spice and Wolf is actually an anime that is BOTH ENTERTAINING AND EDUCATIONAL. When the fark have you ever hear me say that?! In fact, when in the world have you ever heard anyone say that about an anime.
At time of posting this, I am looking for Spice and Wolf Season 1. And if it is anywhere as brilliant as season 2, I will convert to Spice and Wolf-ism. For now, I’ll also be patiently wait for Season 3.
The opening and closing theme were both excellent. Although it’s one of those few times where I actually prefer the Tv sized version. And for both songs at that. Instilling a sense of joy before and after every episode. Needless to say it was quite a satisfaction.
Episode 1 to 6, got me all worked up as it showed the best the anime can offer. Bringing tension from the “Amati’s Contract” story, while Lawrence and Horo showed off their ability as a skilled merchant and powerful analytical skills. This was so good that it got me watching till 3am when I had to work the next day (Leaves house at 7am mind you).As that story ended, I thought to myself
“Fuh! That was excellent. I am thoroughly satisfied and couldn’t ask for anything more. Will catch up on sleep the next day.”
Only to be drowned in yet another brilliant story the following night. This time with more passion as Horo and Lawrence faces the possibilities of going their separate ways. Again another sleepless night, which was well worth every single bit!
Spice and Wolf II
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Mazui 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
This isn’t a fault or complaint regarding the anime, but I recently find myself watching too many animes with what feels like similar graphic styles. Soft lines with slightly faded colors. I’m getting just a little agitated and need something with greater contrast.
MS Igloo 2
Each episode of MS Igloo 2 tells a story of a different soldier. How they were affected by the war. And how they were all “watched over” by the Shinigami of Zeon (“Grim Reaper” or “Death Gods” for you Bleach fans :p).
More info: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
I have officially found the 2nd scariest character ever in my whole anime/cartoon watching timespan! The Zeon Shinigami sends a chill down my spine everything she pops out. Starts floating around and spout her stuff. Those freaky eyes and spooky mascara. Bbrrrr!!!!
I don’t know if this qualifies as an anime. It’s fully CG after all. Provided you are not obsesed with how the faces of the characters look (a little too blocky to feel real), you’ll enjoy the show just fine. Don’t expect big eyes, solid and single-colored hair, big boobs, etc. etc. Hmm… MS Igloo 2 was a welcomed watch indeed! Too much fanservice in my recent animes.
Anyway… This show rocks! HARD! The animation, sound, story. Top Notch! Every scene felt like a wallpaper in the making. The colors were shere artistry. And for 30 minutes each episode, it still manage to bring just enough depth to the characters. Enough to tease you when it ended like it did. Then after enjoying the whole episode without blinking an eye, the ending song comes on, and despair drowns you as you feel a sudden loss, not wanting the anime to ever end.
Shit! Some episodes even explored 2 characters, and STILL manage to get me to feel attached, in less than 30 mins! Needless to say, Gundam fans cannot afford to miss this. It has Odessa!
One thing though, episode 2 and 3… Rather predictable. -.-”
Mr. Lonely Heart by Haruno Yokota
(For this Youtube video you migth have to crank your volumn up a little. It’s very soft, but the sound quality is better than the others. Just remember to turn it back down after you finish the video. This is a a friendly service reminder brought to you by Anime3R. -.-”)
And yes, the lady in the video is the Zeon Shinigami which scares the creep out of me.
If the pictures here doesn’t make you feel like watching MS Igloo 2, I don’t know what will.
MS Igloo 2
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: gg
DOGS: Bullets and Carnage OAV
Based off of the Japanese manga series by Shirow Miwa, Dogs is set in a world where violence, crime, genetic manipulation and other cruel scientific experiments have become common. The story focuses on four main characters who, through a series of coincidences, meet as they search for answers to their individual past.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
For the first in a long long time, I actually really want to read mangas again. I mean really as in to the point where I would open up the browser and search for it. Although, I closed the browser later deciding not to, due to animes backlogged bigger then the Fuji mountains. But seriously, this OVA kicked ass. There isn’t much to say about the story. But viewers will get the idea what it’s about and how the setting and theme is. I wasn’t too fond of episode 2, Badou’s story to be honest. It’s just that the animation for episode 2 seemed somewhat lacking compared to the other 3.
Just my $0.99 cents…
Hey? What can I say, my thoughts don’t come cheap. :p
Expect feathered colors, soft yet so full. Hard outlines. Something similar to Ga-Rei-Zero but with brighter choice of colors. Hmm… That seems to be the trend nowadays isn’t it?
Still satisfying none the less. 5-manga-luring-Stars for a OVA which did what it’s suppose to do.
DOGS: Bullets and Carnage OAV
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Yuurisan subs Ep1 Ep2 Ep3 Ep4
Hatsukoi Limited
A series of short stories depicting the complicated love lives of eight middle school and high school girls, their classmates and relatives. These stories later intertwine to form a main story involving most of the cast.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Continuing where I left off yesterday… aAAAaaAAAAaAAaAAAAaaaAAAAAAAaaaaAAAAAAAaAAaaaaaaAAAAAaaa!
One day after Hatsukoi Limited and my heart is still full of emotions. Even after hitting the limit and have my heart erupting, constant flash backs of the anime instantly fills my heart and reminds me why I have to watch Hatsukoi Limited again sometime in the near future.
Behold the following MSN chat I had last night…
————————————-
Date Time Sender Receiver Message
10/4/2009 8:17:49 PM Ant Razrigz how was your day? 
neh… nothing new… just finished dinner and mandi… now going back to Hatsukoi Limited…
10/4/2009 8:18:05 PM Ant Razrigz watching the anime really makes me feel so lonely… makes me really want to find a girlfriend… hahahahaha
10/4/2009 8:18:21 PM Razrigz Ant hahah
10/4/2009 8:18:24 PM Ant Razrigz basket… i sound like a loser.. with a capital L
10/4/2009 8:18:36 PM Ant Razrigz hahaha… sa bis shi… -.-”
10/4/2009 8:18:40 PM Razrigz Ant dont watch it it’ll make u feel u wanna kill ur self
10/4/2009 8:18:44 PM Razrigz Ant huhuhu
10/4/2009 8:18:53 PM Razrigz Ant same here lol ^^
10/4/2009 8:18:55 PM Ant Razrigz is that how you felt?
10/4/2009 8:18:57 PM Ant Razrigz lol…
10/4/2009 8:19:41 PM Razrigz Ant when i watchin hatsukoi limited
10/4/2009 8:19:42 PM Razrigz Ant Lolz
10/4/2009 8:19:44 PM Ant Razrigz i think i understand when you say cannot stay home liau.. hahaha like after watching hatsukoi limited… really need to go out cause if stay home alone will feel too lonely
————————————-
Razrigz as in this guy. Lol! Thanks for letting me spam our chat.
I didn’t expect it to be so true. Well, not literally. Instead I couldn’t help but doubt the memories of my schooldays I treasure so much. Compared to Hatsukoi Lmited, they seem so shallow and void of romance.
Talking about shallow, that was the first impression I got when I started this series. It was unavoidable seeing how much comedy was in the first 2 episodes. And how it was making fun of the one-sided love Zaitsu Misao has for Ayumi. The ending theme didn’t help much either.
This would then turn out to be the few times that I’m super glad to be wrong. The episodes after that were fill with energy, romance, passion… Youth.
Although, this anime got me thinking, regarding Kusuda and Kei-san’s romance. Are all mid-school students that slow when interpreting love?..
No wait, reflecting on my own experience… Yeah, back in school, I do have friends, both guys and gals, who wouldn’t know if a love-train smacked them head-on. -.-“
This is strictly my own feeling and I’m wondering if I’m the only one. But Hatsukoi Limited is so filled with emotions, not only sad, romantic and touching moments. But also laughter and joy. Yet it didn’t push me to the point I’d cry, like Clannad did. I did get wet eyes though. The thing is, it’s because I didn’t cry that my heart feels so heavy that it’s driving me crazy. It’s like there’s no outlet for all the emotions. So I’d like to ask, am I the only one who feels this way? Or is there someone out there who needs help just as much as I do? Lol!
Hatsukoi Limited has (somehow) got me reflecting on myself so much I don’t even think this should be called a review post anymore. But just to make due, there will be nothing to complain about regarding the animation quality, sound and music and story. It will, without fail, satisfy anyone as long as they have an open heart and mind towards romance animes. There are some slight changes I would have made to the characters before I can call this anime perfect though. But Hatsukoi Limited comes pretty darn close! 5-Wonderfully-Heart-Warming-Stars!
P.S: At this point, I’m wondering if posting all that I’ve written above will reveal to the world the big sissy that I am. Hmmm…. Sissy it is! :p
As usual, I feel that some of the pantsu shots were uncalled for. Hatsukoi Limited already had so much going for it that it wouldn’t need simple-minded fanservice. The swimsuits and loli dressing however, are still welcomed.
Those who came across my Clannad review, might remember how I once mention that I prefer characters with well developed background, family and history wise. I feel that it gives characters a greater level of depth and complexity. Which prevents them from feeling like “staple” characters. And in turn gives the illusion of the characters being able to affect you deeper as you are able to relate to that character. Well, Hatsukoi Limited really opened my eyes to how an anime character can go about doing what I just mentioned without the complex character build-up. From episode to episode, Hatsukoi Limited barely build character depth yet when the characters get in their own environment the story has build around them, they were able to become so touching. If I didn’t have this self-imposed-ignorance belief, I would be worshipping the script writer(/director) by now. Absolutely wonderful!
Yeah, sure. There are animes being able to move you emotionally without character build-up as well. But none touched me more than Hatsukoi Limited.
One last thing. Episode 9, which tells the story between Chikura and Renjou. BEST… EPISODE… EVER!
Till now, my heart stings whenever I hear the ending song, Sora ni Mau by marble play.
Hatsukoi Limited
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Tsukasa&Chihiro
Paradise Kiss
Yukari is a typical high-school student who listens to her parents and attends school everyday. As she starts to question her way of life, she encounters a group of fashion design students who has a clothing label known as “Paradise Kiss”. The group needs to find a model to showcase their designs in an up-coming fashion show and decides to pick Yukari instead. Initially, Yukari was reluctant to be associated with this seemingly eccentric group, but eventually, she realises that they are really nice people. Furthermore, their passion and enthusiasm to follow their ideals and dreams make Yukari realise that she has not been enjoying her life and this motivated her to pursue her own dreams.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Do NOT watch this if you are working the next day. You won’t be able to stop drowning yourself in George’s cool charm, Elizabeth’s innocence, Arashi’s honesty and Miwako’s adolescences. Paradise Kiss should be banned for being so dangerously addictive. Everything Ristorante Paradiso is, Paradise Kiss is too. And I’m not just comparing them because of the slightly similar name. Elegant, stylish, romantically charming but with Paradise Kiss, you get more flair, energy and sensual. We are, after all, comparing old geezers to high-school students.
Blurring the lines between reality and dream. On one hand, we have the story of a girl facing her future, exams, parental pressure, things everyone encounters. On another hand, it shows what happens when one dream and dares to pursue. Hours really fly by with this series.
The storytelling pace for Caroline’s dilemma fit me to a tee in Paradise Kiss. Despite her character facing so many problems continuously, I did not felt suffocated. That’s because Paradise Kiss laid out the plot nicely. First they explored Caroline’s indecision with her future. Gave viewers an episode to get the idea into their head. Then they brought up the modeling issue. Then another episode. Then George. Etc. Get what I mean? Surprisingly I didn’t feel bored (which I normally would). I loved it!
The opening theme, Lonely in Gorgeous by Tommy february6, is absolutely a perfect match for the anime. The closing theme is good too. It’s just I’ve listen to Franz Ferdinand so many times in the past I got bored.
Although understandable, I still wished the spotlight coulhd have shifted around more between Arashi, Miwako and Elizabeth instead of being so focused on Geaorge. Hmm… Talking about George, as cool as he may be, he is pretty much on my hate-list for making the ladies around him cry all the time. Especially Caroline. Well… At least he was faithful to Caroline (I think).
In the end, I’m glad there’s only 13 episodes cause I would not be able to bare the constant pain whenever George and Caroline fights.
Ok then, going to end this post, hit the sack. And try (very hard) to fall asleep and just hope for a dream as rich as Paradise Kiss is.
The beauty that is the blue rose. Watch the anime and you shall understand.
Gokinjo Monotogari anyone? Shares some characters apparently.
Paradise Kiss
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: FrothBite and AnimeForever
I don’t think I would have watched this if it wasn’t for Listless Ink’s post . So credits go there too. Go grab your wallpapers there! :p
Talking about wallpapers, Googling around I noticed that there isn’t much Arashi and Miwako’s as compared to George and Caroline. So I’m gonna try and vector a wallpaper up. Lol!
Just something to take me away from my anime addiction.
Shin Kyuseishu Densetsu Hokuto no Ken: Kenshiro-den
What? Sypnosis?! Shame on you for not knowing Hokuto no Ken’s Legend!
In a post-nuclear future, technology have all been lost. Leaving the world a barren desert where the strong rules the world and the weak becomes slaves. In a civilization where the cruel is unrestrained, the people call upon a savior to return the peace. This movie shows how a naive and kind Kenshiro evolves into the strong hearten will of the people. Happening just after Shin took Yuria away from Kenshiro. And before Kenshiro met Lin (the little girl who lost her voice) and the other kid. -.-”
More info: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
First off, that IS the title of the movie. Lol! Which will translate to Fist of the North Star: The Legend of Kenshirô. Second, Only one word need be used to describe this movie. G.A.R!
Only Kenshiro is GAR-worthy to be my very first male character wallpaper. ONLY Kenshiro! With his GAR clothing, GAR muscles, GAR martial arts, Freaking GAR eyebrows! Even the picture drama at the end of the movie was GAR. 5-GAR-GAR-GAR-GAR-GAR-Stars. I dare say that even if every character in Tengen Toupa Gurren Lagann and Sengoku Basara combined, they would not match the manliness brought about by Kenshiro’s single spit! You honestly don’t know the meaning of GAR until you watched a Hokuto no Ken movie. Especially THIS movie!
Gar has NEVER felt so good!
The following are shots from the picture drama after the movie. It is just as good!
Shin Kyuseishu Densetsu Hokuto no Ken: Kenshiro-den (movie)/Fist of the North Star: The Legend of Kenshirô
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Hokuto no Gun
Time to Clear the Closet
Holidays come, Holidays go… So does OVA’s. Well, most of them anyway. :p
Strike witches OVA
- I didn’t make it pass the 10 minutes mark and I’m supposed to be a big fan of Strike Witches. Guess not -.-“
Rating: 1-Star
Torrents: Strike-Subs
Inukami (Movie)
- I downloaded this expecting to see white haired fox-man and girl and samurai like setting among other things. Only after 3 minutes did I realize that was InuYasha… Not Inukami! So instead, I got 20 minutes worth of fanservice, bad comedy and a total of 5 minutes worth of watchable scenes that didn’t make my eyes bleed.
Rating: 2-Stars
Torrents: Mendoi & Shinsen
Yurumates
- I have no idea what I expected so much when starting Yurumates. Turned out to be among the hardest animes I’ve had to sit through. It’s been a long time I’ve been so fidgety while watching an anime. Restless enough to do a photoshoot of random items while Yurumates was running.
Rating: 1-Star
Torrents: Frostii
Cybord She (Live Movie)
- Despite having a slow start to mid point; The ending was superb! Seriously! I won’t even try to express how good the ending was. I’m not saying it was a happy ending… I’m not saying it’s sad either. I’m just saying it’s good. Something you would feel as when you listen to Hatsune Miku’s – Last night, Good Night
Rating: 4-Stars
Torrent: CoWRY
Subtitles: Opensubtitles.org
K-On! Special
- Hmm… This is suppose to be funny right?
Rating: 1-Star
Torrents: Chihiro
Kaiketsu Zorori
- Hmm… 1993. Lol. I really wanted to try this out, but just couldn’t bring myself to it. Dropped…
Torrents: Alopex
Galaxy Express 999 (Movie)
- I know most animes fans will shun me for this. But I dropped it. Just too old skool for me.
Torrents: Live-Evil
Queen’s Blade OVA 02
- Boobs, Boobs and Boobs. -.-”
Rating: 1-Star
Torrents: SubsFuckingWhere
Amored Trooper Votoms – Big Battle (Movie)
- Other than the irritating machine gun sounds which repeats and repeats and repeats at the final battle, I enjoyed this. It still ain’t no 4-Stars though. Classic mech battle with damsel in distress. Nostalgic…
Warning: Not recommended for epilepsy viewers. Flash overload at final scene.
Rating: 3-Stars
Rating: 3-Stars
Torrents: Shinsen
Koukaku no Regios
A polluted world has been overtaken by havoc-wreaking creatures called pollution beasts. Humanity, having been forced to relocate itself, must live in isolated mobile cities. A mysteriously skilled fighter named Layfon Alseif enrolls in the Academic city of Zuellni and is immediately noticed by Nina Antalk, leader of the 17th Military Arts Unit. He then reluctantly joins her squad, uncertain of what future awaits him and his new teammates within the city as well as the impending dangers in the midst of a plagued world.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
All Hail Koukaku no Regios!
It has everything! Action, friendship, monsters, Romance, a bit of comedy. Only thing missing is robots. And everything it has, is done oh-so-adrenalin-pumping-excellent! Everything was good enough for me to overlook the slightly out-of-placed harem going on.
I was 3rd episode in, looked at the time… 11pm. Ok then! Already knew that this anime was going to keep me up all night. Time to redeem the countless hours I wasted sleeping.
During the start of the series…
1st episode – Turned off the lights. I only do this for the BEST animes mind you! I know it kills your eyes but Regios was freaking worth it!
2nd episode – Ran down quickly during the opening theme and grabbed as much snacks my hands allowed.
3rd episode – Searched for the soundtrack.
4th episode – Search for lots and lots of Regios wallpapers.
5th episode – Googled for Regios figures.
6th and onwards – Enjoyed as I drown myself in Regios ecstasy…
Things started to get twisted from episode 12 as plots build up. Hate to sound “unprofessional” but by then, I was too engrossed in Regios to bother about this review anymore. Stopped taking notes, threw the pen aside and was focused on this anime 120%. To illustrate a comparison on how incredible that is, I operate heavy machinery at work allocating only 60% of my brain power. Lol!
But to sum up the episodes, there were ups and downs. Still plenty of action and drama to boot; Keeping you on the edge of your seat. Either I have not seen animes of this genre for too long or Regios is really as great as I felt it to be.
I absolutely love the ending theme, Yasashii Uso by Chrome Shelled. At time of writing this review, I would have listened to it 43 times. By the end of this review, I expect the number to turn 50 61, not including the times I’ve listened to it watching the anime. Seeing how it is the ONLY song in my playlist for now. Very seldom do I actually sit through the same themes every episode or even played the anime just to skip to the ending theme. Regios has got me playing it over and over and over and over again. Well, that is until I downloaded the Single album for Yasahii Uso.
Every now and then, I keep thinking if Regios could have reached Macross Frontier standards romance wise if it killed the moe. That would have give the romance and harem plot a sense of realism. I’m not saying it isn’t as good as Macross Frontier; just that Macross Frontier feels more matured possibly targeting the audience of a higher age group. But in its own right, Regios is really just as amazing. Talking about realisem, I love how they didn’t portray the lead Layfon as the invincible warrior that he is, and instead will still tire and needs the help of his teammates in taking down stronger opponents.
There were some inconsistencies through out the course of the anime. During the inter platoon matches, there were numerous strong platoons, with experienced veterans, “honorable” and powerful military artists (Regios’s fancy name for soldiers, or at some point, cannon fodder). Then when the polluted beasts were invading, where the fark did everyone go? The only platoon I recognize was the one Layfon was in, the 17th Platoon.
Another inconsistency is that when Layfon went outside of the city’s protection dome. The polluted environment was shown to be hazardous enough to be able to slowly disintegrate Layfon’s clothing. But few episodes after that, Felli can travel outside in a freaking miniskirt?! WtF?! Oh by the way, Felli is the character in Regios who proves that a loli CAN be tsundere at the same time! :p
Remember coming across a chat about it a while ago asking if a loli can be a tsundere at the same time. Forgot where though. -.-“
I like how it gives off the illusion of the character’s age based on viewers’ preferences. It constantly uses words like study, exams, academic, classes, etc. which explains that the characters are still studying but that’s it. They never indicated the level of study. So viewers can simply imagine that the characters are indeed middle schooled or high schooled or whatever they prefer. From mid school all the way to university.
But as you watched on, there is not a single scene of the characters attending class at all. All I see are buildings which might very well be barracks instead and this could then easily pass of the idea that the characters are adult aged instead. Call me over-analytic but I think this was done with the intention of allowing viewers to determine or set an age group to the characters for themselves, according to their personal preference.
MAJOR SPOILER ALERT! IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN REGIOS STAY THE F AWAY FROM THE FOLLOWING LINK AND WATCH THE ANIME FIRST! IT IS JUST TOTALLY FREAKING WORTH IT!
Minor ending impression
This is a first for me when I say this but I totally enjoyed every single character in Regios. EVERYONE! They were so in role, no one felt out of place at all. Heck! I even loved the swans.
Anyone ever wondered why the city Grendan is so strong?
No… Not because it’s a Chrome Shelled City or whatever. It’s because it is the one city which bothered to keep their elders around. Did you notice that there were no aged citizens at all at Zuellni and Myarth? Even for an academic city?!
Anyone see’s Miku-lookalike?
Personally, I like Nina just as much as Felli… Wait! Leerin ain’t half bad too… o_0! I just had a revelation! Regios is my tsundere haven! Probably explains why I love it so much. :p
Now if someone is willing to explain to me why Data Chips are so expensive… Kanshasheteh. Oh, and also how the black and white scenes tie up with the main story going on in Regios, Oh! And who the fark Ignasious is. Oh and where is the mentioned Zero Dimension. Oh and what the fark is a Dying Slave. Oh and who the fark is Dixerio too. And the Masked Wolf gang. What about the Rigzario Belief?
Lol! I have never enjoyed such a confusing anime before! For the first time, I didn’t mind being totally lost to what the heck they were talking about. 5 ULTIMATE MIND-BLOWING STARS!
Epic Coolness!
Goggle technology we will never achieve! One which lets your hair out in style yet keeps you air tight
Sephia scenes which I don’t get
Koukaku no Regios
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Taka Fansubs
K-On! – Extensive review
It’s Yui Hirasawa’s first year in high school, and she’s eagerly searching for a club to join. At the same time, Ritsu Tainaka, a drummer, and her friend Mio Akiyama, a bass player, are desperately trying to save the school’s light music club, which is about to be disbanded due to lack of members. They manage to recruit Tsumugi Kotobuki to play the keyboard, meaning they only need one more member to get the club running again. Yui joins, thinking it will be an easy experience for her to play the castanets, the only instrument she knows. However, the other members think their new addition is actually a guitar prodigy.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork
This is an extensive review of K-On which dwells into how it made an impact on the psychological level and how it affects otaku on the inner conscience. I will go into the finest details possible episode by episode, checking and double checking it over and over again to make sure I don’t miss the slightest detail. Expect mind boggling facts and data gathered from my extensive observation!
Episode 1: Hehe…
Episode 2: HeheHah…
Episode 3: HahaHAha…
Episode 4: Hahaah…
Episode 5: HAH!
Episode 6: fuwa fuwa fuwa fuwa fuwa fuwa… HahahA…
Episode 7: Wtf?! Haha…
Episode 8: fuwa fuwa fuwa.. Hahaha…
Episode 9: HhaHAHha..
Episode 10: Huhuhu…
Episode 11: OH-no!
Episode 12: HAhaHAh… AAAaaAAawwwWWwwWWwww….
Episode 13: HAHAhaha… Kusi! Kusi!
*Zombified blur*: K-On… Happyyy… K-On… Fuuunnnyyy… K-On… KaawwwaaIiiiiIIi… K-On… MooEEeeeE… K-On… Giive… 5-Staarr…. *drooooool*
K-O-O-O-O-on!
Rat-t-t-ting: 5-St-ta-ta-tars
T-T-T-Torrents: Chi-hi-hi-hi-ro
Ristorante Paradiso
Nicoletta is a young woman who decides to go to Rome to see her mother who left her when she was just a child. She went there with the intention of revealing her relationship with her mother to her mother’s lover who owned a restaurant. At the restaurant Nicoletta meets Claudio, a cameriere, and is instantly drawn to him.
More info: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
After seeing the first 2 episodes, the conclusion I drew was that Ristorante Paradiso was going to be an anime about some love triangle trapped in a harem restaurant filled with old geezers. It really threw me off guard as to what to expect in the coming episodes.
Don’t get me wrong, it turn out just as I mentioned, love triangle in harem restaurant indeed, but what I didn’t expect was how crazily addictive it could get.
Watching this I feel like I was sucked into the peaceful environment of Ristorante Casetta Dell-orso, the restaurant in the anime in which most airtime takes place. The story was exciting in a romantic way as Nicoletta bonds with others with each passing episode and as the series tells the history of Ristorante Casetta Dell-orso, its staffs and its patrons in a comfortable way.
A great slice-of-life that achieves perfect pacing and a relaxing atmosphere. The world around me stops as time flies by as I drown myself in the charm of each episode. Smiling like a love-drown fool looking at the monitor. Lol!
Ristorante Paradiso explored every character with just the right balance of airtime. Characters were given enough depth without hogging up any particular episode. The staffs’ romantic pasts really sparks up the whole anime.
Characters were drawn to really bring out the European feel; Big mouth, big nose, slightly deep eye sockets. Using a mixture of thick and soft lines, coupled with the watercolor background.
The inconsistencies between some particular scenes were obvious.
Look at the beautiful cars, then look at the fingers around holding the cup -.-”
Good opening and closing theme. Suteki na Kajitsu (ステキな果実) by Lisa Komine, is an ending theme which blends so well with the mood of the anime.
Enjoy the sharp comebacks which always manage to draw laughter from me
Nicoletta didn’t exactly give a good first impression when all she talks about in the first 2 episodes was about falling in love with someone’s husband who looks easily 20 years older than her. Not that I have a problem with the age, seeing how I also fantasize about having a 25 year old wife when I turn 40. It just makes Nicoletta seem shallow.
It was great that she focused herself on her cooking skills in the later episodes. Challenging cooking brought another level of depth to her and saves her from nailing the dull “All-I-Can-Think-About-Is-You” sign on her forehead.
Enjoy Nicoletta’s deep thoughts as it reflects on the experience of each episode and shows how she grows through the series
Caught in the act by mom, a.k.a. pPPWnnEEEddd!!! Lol!
Having just a slight bumpy opening episode, it was smooth sailing from episode 2 till the end. Could have milked out the ending just a tad more, giving it another episode to grow. Instead of ending it in a quick one-two-shoot-cut after the birthday party scene. Though, having a slightly short ending did not deter it from giving off a sense of brilliance. Ristorante Paradiso, an anime that lets you appreciate the finer things in life.
Ciao… :p
Ristorante Paradiso
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Shinji
====================================
Since this review is rather short, I’m going to include some words which is commonly used in the anime. Ain’t exactly spam, just something you’d come across in Ristorante Paradiso.
Buonasera = Good Evening
Chiuso = Closed
Salve = Hello
Ciao = Bye
Buon Guorno = Good Morning
Grazie = Thank You
Prego = Your Welcome
Santa = Saint
Santa Lucia = a traditional Neapolitan song. More info: Wiki
Buon Compleano = Happy Birthday
Tanti Auguri a te = a more generic “Wish you Well” which can be used for various occasions
Piacere = Please, Pleasure, To Please. More info: Yahoo Answers
Alla Prossima = See you next time
Clannad After Story OVA: Kyou Arc
Finally gotten around to watching the Kyou arc. Initially planned to drop a short comment and included it with my Summary of Lots post. But being my favorite series, surely it deserves a spot of its own.
Watching it this late, after so many reviews were out, brings about some good and bad points. Good in the sense that I get to see the feedback and reaction from other fellow bloggers after watching this Kyou arc. Then getting to watch it myself, I try to understand why the feedback or reaction. And finally comparing it with my own. I can’t help but wonder if I actually do attain some sort of sick pleasure from doing that. -.-“
As for the bad point, sometimes I can’t escape spoilers. :p
Even after completing the After Story series, I’ve always and still felt that the Fujibayashi sisters didn’t get enough spotlight. Or rather was more of a supporting cast than being key players. So when they got their own arc, I was happy through and through.
Tomoya had the spotlight on him throughout the episode. Didn’t like that, would have preferred more scenes on how Kyou and Ryou faced each other whenever Tomoya was involved. How they would converse about Tomoya with one another. Etc.
Instead of being hurt, Tomoya looked more like he was confused. Confused to whether he should be feeling hurt in the first place (I sound like I’m going in circles don’t I?). As he fails to confront his true feelings on who he really loves.
As for the sisters, every scene involving them was well expressed. Every Kyou or Ryou scenes played out just I expected they would. I really enjoyed how “human” both Kyou and Ryou was. Kyou being the big sister who tried to put Ryou before her. And Ryou turning out to be the more daring one as she takes the initiative in both stopping Kyou’s advancement and expressing her feelings to Tomoya.
Being so long since I watched any Clannad stories, this episode didn’t turn out as touching as I thought. I didn’t get watery eyes or felt sad even. If anything, I was happy instead. Happy that both Kyou and Ryou finally face their inner self.
I don’t really get how is it that the Fujibayashi sisters get so much hate. And I’m not just talking about posts concerning this episode. Especially Kyou who seems to be steal the spotlight whenever it comes to Clannad discussions, when she didn’t really get much airtime on Clannad itself. Way too much attention, both positive and negative, when she is cast alongside so many other great characters. Why doesn’t anyone talk about Nagisa? Or even Kotomi?
As far as ending is concern, I’m very satisfied with it. Though not as touching as Tomoya arc or Nagisa, script was still well played and plot was direct. It saddens me to think that no matter who Tomoya chose, someone will get hurt. But heck! That’s what reality is like. And THAT’s what makes this episode great.
Clannad After Story OVA: Kyou Arc
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: SS-Eclipse
Off topic: Leave it to Naruto Shippuuden to tear your enthusiasm to shreds. Skipped through episodes 106 to 112. 6 episodes of the ugliest animation ever to come out from Japan. Sometimes I wonder if the story is indeed worth such torture. Just needed a spot to rant on this.
Summary of Lots
Seeing that I was free for the past 2 days and was feeling a little down. I went into hikkimori mode and finally took the time to clear off some OVAs, movies and other one off episodes I had stored in my PC since the dawn of time. Initially was gonna do a proper review for them but that would hurt my brain… really badly! So took the lazy way out and here they are accompanied by super short thoughts.
Kannagi 14 DVD Special
- Although nothing felt a missed, it still lacks the punch which sent me laughing off my chair in the original series.
Rating: 3-Stars
Torrents: CommieSubs
Detroit Metal City Live Action Movie
- Aikawa in this movie is hot! Oh… and Mushroom hair RulEsZZsssZZ!!! Krauser too of course!
Rating: 4-Stars
Torrents: SkewedS
Prince of Tennis: Another Story – Turbulance – The Young Atobe
- Tells how Hyoutei Tennis team came together with a nice short game to end the OVA.
Rating: 4-Stars
Torrents: Impetuosity Productions
Queen’s Blade OVA
- What’s the point of fanservice when you can’t even draw the characters properly?
Rating: 1-Star
Torrents: SFW
Denpa teki na Kanojo OVA
More info: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
- This is a great anime. If you are a fan of Higurashi no Naku Koro ni. You’d love this. It isn’t as wicked or violent or twisted as Higurashi. But the storyline is more solid. Prioritizing logic over fiction. Definitely a Must-watch!
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Eien-no
Sugar Bunnies Fleur
- ………. 42 seconds before I dropped it. It’s not bad (I think), I just don’t want to watch it. :p
Torrents: ExtycZ
Miname-ke Betsubara OVA
- I still don’t find how Miname-ke is a good watch. I did realize a pattern where the male characters, Hosaka and Fujioka, are more blunt with their jokes. At least you know when it’s suppose to be a joke from them.
Ratings: 2-Stars
Torrents: gleamstreet
Don’t Lose Makendo
- Lol! Skipped.
Torrents: Tomodachi
Otogi-Jushin Akazukin
More Info: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
- Provided you can get past the opening theme filled with cute underage girls, this anime actually turns out to be quite a good watch. Recommended! If there was any anime which ever turns me into a pedophile, this would be it.
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Kaze No Anime
Tori no Uta
- As much as I would like to say that I enjoyed what it was trying to express and act all artistic, I did not. In fact, I was trying very hard not to fall asleep. Check out the graphics from the screen-shots before you commit.
Rating: 1-Star
Torrents: Kokoromi
Akane-iro ni Somaru Saka OVA
- *Taking a breather to cool myself before I type this* This OVA is borderline echi. Strictly a fanservice episode. No story, no plot, and LOTS of skin. Good thing I found the humor sufficient (Woo! Learned today that humor = American, humour = British). Now excuse me while I go search for the full series ;p
Rating: 2-Star
Torrents: SubsFuckingWhere
Sengoku Basara
In feudal Japan, states are in war with each other over control of lands, trying to unify Japan under their own flag. That is until a ruthless leader, Oda Nobunaga, gets so powerful that the states can no longer act independently. Instead they form an alliance and together they try to topple the evil warlord. Among the alliance are generals Sanada Yukimura and Date Masamune who, among others, works together to take down Oda.
More Info: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Now this is what I call entertainment! The story is direct and simple. No brain power is needed to process any complicated plots. There are minimal twists in the story which just naturally leads to one another. In fact, Sengoku Basara is so blatant about their transparency they practically tell you what is going to happen next episode. And that still doesn’t kill the fun one single bit.
This is the break I have been waiting for which stands strictly apart from all the animes overcrowded by female characters, harem, moe and others alike. And that makes Sengoku Basara feel freaking Epic!
Swing a blade, Kill a thousand
The crazy animation manages to stand further out among others even after I just reviewed Candy Boy and Sora wo Kakeru Shoujo. Epic fight scenes! Using only the most fluid movements and the most stylish poses screaming “Cover-Shot” all over.
Every now and then, a different style of animation pops out especially during battles making it inconsistent, though every style still manages to oozes testosterone. The constant battle of balls going on between every character just makes it ever more crazy, in a kick-arse way.
Try as you might, you won’t deter me from Basara-fandom.
Sadist till the last breath. I salute you!
The opening theme, JAP by Abingdon Boys School, works too Effing well. Listening to the opening theme and I’m already pumped up thinking of what savory treats await my eyes and my adrenal gland* as it begins working overtime to produce adrenalin for the course of the episode. The well blended fast beats, catchy tune and minor dance “choreography” as the background visual… Did I say Epic? Yeah, indeed it is.
Kenshin turns out to be my favorite character. Now before you start calling me gay or whatever, I’ve always strived to be a gentleman (something personal) and Kenshin was Epic-ly gentle. Dare disagree? :p
Not to mention being able to give orgasms through power of words and whisper just come as a plus. Lol!
I was looking forward to archer boy getting cut down one way or another in the end… Pfftt!
Season 2, best news of the month!
Not that I need to tell you this again (I just want to) but Sengoku Basara is freaking Epic! You need to watch this now or Shingen’s going to come smack your face silly.
Sengoku Basara
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Baka-Updates
* Yes, I had to google to find out about adrenalin. Lol!
@razrig: GAR indeed. Lol!
Candy Boy
Kanade, Yukino and Shizuku are sisters. Sakuya is schoolmate. Kanade loves Yukino. Yukino loves Kanade. Shizuku loves Kanade and Yukino more. Yukino and Kanade loves Shizuku too but less. Sakuya loves Kanade. But no one loves Sakuya.
Yeah… This is Yuri all right and that was basically the plot and the whole storyline of the 7 episodes.
*Off course I did leave a few minor details out so as not to totally spoil your fun*
More info: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Candy Boy sure was flaunting it’s graphics. And it had every right to do so. Everything was so uBer beautifully drawn. Every scene felt like something I just had to make a wallpaper out of. The slightly faded background coupled with the soft tone colors were serene.
The first theme, Candy Boy performed by MeiLin, I can love to bits!
Although the storyline doesn’t leave much to ponder upon, I still found an unatural fondness towards this short but beautiful series. Heck, if all Yuri’s were like this, I’ve been missing out on a lot for a long long time! And what I love most about this was that there was not a single drop of ecchi. BANZAI!!!
I really tried to minimise the screenshots, but everything was just screaming “post-me”!
Candy Boy
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: SHiN-gx
Slight note of torrents: At time of posting this, high quality versions for ep5 and ep6 have not been released. But when they do, I strongly suggest you get them too!
And also off topic: Check this out at Taikatsu Remedy. Interesting read. Posting it here cause didn’t want to spam the blog directories with short posts.
Magister Magi Negi! Natsu OVA
The story begins Nodoka and Yue practicing casting spells. While training, Yue convince Nodoka that they casting a red string of fate spell on Nodoka. A spell which shows them whose their fate is. One end connect to Nodoka and the other end connect to Negi. Unfortunatly, this spell isn’t a fate connection, but it just connects two people with a red string. The rest is about how Nodoka and Negi spend the day at a newly opened bath house.
Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Why is it that I wasn’t surprised at all when the whole class went skinny dipping again in this OVA despite not having the slightest idea what this episode was about beforehand. -.-”
For this Natsu OVA, I’m going to tell you guys before continuing with the review that this Natsu OVA is a solid 5-Stars.
This episode also has the high quality animation we saw in the Haru OVA , although in a slightly different style. The coloring had a slightly faded effect compared to the strong contrast effect felt in the Haru OVA.
Fanservice.. stronger than ever. I believe I should also mention that this episode is NSFW.
The themes however, were actually bad. Normally, a bad opening or ending would not get to me, but the ending for this OVA was just WRONG! The tune was Pfft!.. something ignorable but the singing… seriously terrible.
Ok, so how did this Natsu OVA get 5-Stars then? What makes it different from the Haru episode. Simple.
Watching this episode gave me a smile on my face from the 5 minute mark. And things just got funnier as Negi and Nodoka went to the Mahora Spa Resort. After that I just laughed my way through till the end. Which, unlike the previous Haru OVA, had a solid ending and succeeds to emphasize on the strong friendship that Nodoka and Yue has and how Yue’s faces her affection for Negi.
Did someone say Bondage? -.-”
My Moe-ness
The one thing I don’t understand is why the funny creatures running around the spa.
As usual, Asuna gets the short end of the stick
Hakase presenting the new Evangelion Model
Yuuna Vs Zazie Vs Chachamaru in Ping Pong.
Who do you think won? :p
Mandatory fireworks to end the episode ^^
And also to end the review.
Magister Negi Magi! Natsu OVA
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: AQS-Animes
I think I’m starting to get carried away with my screenshots. -.-”
Seems to increase with every passing reviews.
Golden Boy
Kintarou Oe doesn’t look like it, but he is a genius who completed all his university courses and then quit before graduating. He becomes a wandering student, going from place to place on his bicycle, seeking to learn what he can about life, the world, and women. He is willing and able to do any job he has to prove himself. His travels take him to a variety of locations and a variety of women, each who learns to love the hardworking guy, but not before he can run off. Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Now this was a fun series to watch! Animation was solid and kept in check. But it was as recommended by AnimeNerdz that I watched this anime with the English dubs. And it was true! The voice cast really did make it more enjoyable and actually funnier than the original Japanese. So after doing the first episode in both Japanese and English, I watched the remaining 5 episodes in English dubs. Let’s not kid ourselves here, Kintarou Oe could very well be one of the most intellectual pervert in anime history. The anime as a whole just gets better and better with each passing episode. Even the background design of the architectural structures were good. Definitely no effort spared there.
The facial expression in Golden Boy was just out of this world. It never fails to express and achieve the feeling it desires and always manages to draw a laugh from me.
“Study Study Study Study Study”
Bloody messes are quite a common scene, appearing every now and then in different episodes.
What can you say from an anime which sells their own director, Tetsuya Engawa? Not much? I thought so. Lol! But don’t be fooled! This anime does not require self promotion what so ever.
The human head cannot turn 360 Degress. Lol!
Kintaro has a fetish towards toilet bowls and the first scene of him drinking fountain-style was just sick. Sick enough for me to not want to post the picture here.
What I really enjoy about this anime is that it still manages to inject a sense of seriousness when dealing with some of the problems which the female characters faced in the storyline. And not forgetting the touch of reality, although minimal, with the series. A good example would be episode 3 as Noriko faces the problems of being cheated by her first love, and how Kintarou tries to persuade him not to hurt Noriko. This made sure the storyline felt solid and matured enough while providing lots of endless laughter.
The last episode which had a story using the settings of an animation company and its process was really a nice touch as a final episode. Kudos to its English vocal cast for providing such a superb dub, especially Douglas Smith who plays Kintaou Oe, the lead.
“there are no jobs that are unimportant”
“plus you can do all sort of things with the character’s that you’d never get away with doing in live action films or videos, that’s what makes animation so unique and wonderful”
- Kintaro Oe @ Golden Boy Episode 6
It really had the feeling of the 90′s. The way the comedy was played out. Yeah! It was slapsticks but it was solid. And the puns were actually funny. Not the majority of mindless one-liners in today’s comedy animes. Not that I have anything against it, as long as it’s funny. But animes like Golden Boy feels refreshing every once and being able to bring a sense of enjoyment to its viewers is what makes Golden Boy one of the best classics around.
The beautiful ladies of the 6 episodes.
Golden Boy
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Mininova
BECK: Mongolian Chop Squad
Tanaka Yukio, better known by his nickname Koyuki is a 14 year old who feels disconnected from life in general. Through the act of saving a mismatched dog, he meets guitarist Minami Ryuusuke, and becomes involved in Ryuusuke’s new band BECK. Koyuki’s life starts to change as the band struggles towards fame. Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
If anyone was to ask me what slice-of-life really meant. I would tell them to watch BECK. Not only does it have a great realistic and inspiring story but it doesn’t get tainted with “god mode”-like talent or miraculous against all odd success. To me, BECK is the absolute definition of how a slice-of-life anime should be like.
Every episode made progress in the storyline. What feels like a slow pacing at the beginning of the series will build up to be a superb story. Story seemed a little too slow pace for my liking initially, and felt like my interest was swaying as the anime didn’t give me anything to bit on. But all doubts were blown away at episode 10. One of the most interesting points for me was to see after every gig how far the band has improved. Even the songs the band played felt better with each passing Live session gig.
Every character was well developed. They each had their distinct personalities and traits and made the anime BECK feel the way it is as a whole. Koyuki who is bored with his mundane life. Izumi, the popular girl that everyone has their hearts on. Ryuusuke, the lead with mysterious charm. And many others as the anime progresses. Do allow me to over-exaggerate but none of the characters were dispensable at all. Hmm… Well… probably Tanabe, Koyuki’s friend, could have been cut off. Lol! Don’t really like him anyway. :p
To even incorporate Koyuki’s mom without exploring her character. That way, I knew that Koyuki’s mom wasn’t going to play a role but instead, her being there helps develop the background Koyuki comes from. Not bad at all. Eiji from the rival band however, was just conveniently there to play the villain role. I guess there just weren’t enough episodes to go around seeing how well every other character was well explored.
Really like it when the anime constantly shows Koyuki practicing guitar in his room. The different chords doesn’t make it feel repetitive and it strengthen the images I perceive that Koyuki works his ass off on the guitar instead of disappearing for an episode or 2 and comes back later with a sudden burst of talent. Another point of how realistic BECK feels.
Animation seems like a cool combination of having both simple and detailed character designs. The cool combo feels really fresh. Character movements both on and off the stage was also fluid. Sweet!
Opening theme is definitely l33t! First listen and I was tapping my feet and drumming my table to the tune. As for the songs in the episode itself, it is not the type that will get you tapping on the first go. Give it a bit more time, and it will definitely grow on you. Most songs I shunned off during the first half of the series turned out to be my favorite by the end of it. I think the songs were slightly over-emphasized though. It’s like the anime wanted viewers to focus on the songs so much that they forgot to make it blend well with the scene.
Lol! Surprisingly, the English used by Ryuusuke, Maho, and some other characters were exceptionally good. There was a scene when Koyuki was telling Ryuusuke about how he really feels about Maho. The anime muted that part. I think that was a very nice move which really made the following scenes felt intense, keeping you in suspense as to what Koyuki’s decision really was.
Episode 1 shows the lead feeling his mundane life. Animation at this point feels minimalistic. Artwork using a clean outline and nothing too detailed. I love the color fillings, single toned with simple shadows. Maho Minami is the roXxOrs! Lol!
The language barrier presented in episode 3 wasn’t just something mentioned for the sake of creating content. It did play into something of serious significance later on as their relationship deepens. And since when did they teach wrestling history in school? Lol!
Episode 8 starts a little romance conflict involving Koyuki. If there was a moment I have been waiting for since the last 9 episodes, episode 10 would be it. If you couldn’t sit through the slow (and possibly boring to some) pace of the first 9 episodes, you are not worthy of the episodes that follows. That’s the message I felt.
What in the world happened to the first half of episode 13? The animation sucked terribly. It’s great that as the series continue, characters really start showing their human flaws. Even Maho Minami was just human after all. The series does build to have a greater plot later in the series though, which I think slightly tilts the anime away from the slice-of-life but really gives it a boost in terms of excitement.
I like how the romance during the middle of the series played a very significant role towards Koyuki’s development but didn’t over shadow the main plot which is the band.
If only fans during the final Greatful Sound performance were not repetitive scenes. That will really get the mood going.
BECK: Mongolian Chop Squad
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: A-E
Clannad: After Story
Life continues on for Tomoya. A few months have passed since he confessed his love to Nagisa. Now entering his graduating year, he continues to meet a variety of different people, expanding his own world in the process. As well, Tomoya and Nagisa’s relationship begins to enter a level of intimacy unlike before. Through his relationship with Nagisa, and his various encounters, Tomoya begins to understand the meaning and importance of family. Unfortunately, as Tomoya and Nagisa begin their own family together, they are faced with many hardships and challenges along the way. Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
I’ll give it to you short and simple. Clannad: After Story is definitely among THE BEST animes I have ever watched. Everything good from the first series of Clannad is definitely brought over and improved in After Story. Again the storytelling, animation, script, voice acting, background music, all were perfect. Want to know more details? Read the original review here . Only the ending theme didn’t really grow on me though. But it’s not like I hated it. Just didn’t feel attached. One thing I noticed was that the facial expressions seemed to improve, as the characters face changes according to the mood. Where as compared to the first series, it didn’t really catch my attention. This series isn’t as romantic as before, but instead focused more on friendship and maternal aspects. I know that there are some who would appreciate the cut down of Moe in this second series. It is totally fine with me Moe or no Moe, as the story was just too good.
Perfect first episode to kick start the series. Something to recap the close friendship or relationship everyone has with each other. I made a mistake of watching the OVA and am really feeling depressed thinking of when I will reach the final storyline when whatever happens, happens. By 3rd episode, it was already starting to feel heavy on the heart. The comedy before that, helped me relaxed and fit in with the mood of the characters and absorb what they wanted to do as characters in the anime. The first story was regarding Sunohara and told how he and Tomoya became friends. Also included how Sunohara and his sister’s relationship were. Episode 5 and 6 was another story, this time surrounding Misae Sagara, the dorm keeper. By this time I was thinking that maybe this series was not to be as tear-jerking as the first series. Touching do doubt with a few sad scenes to get some wet eyes, but nothing too heavy. Also at this point, I felt the BGM has finally been overused, only at this story though. Miyazawa Yukine’s story was next. Revealing the true background of the second library’s attendant. Maybe because all were short stories till now, I didn’t feel particularly touched by the stories. Instead, it felt like a hit-or-miss case. Throwing a bunch of random stories and if any managed captivate the viewers hearts. It was still a nice and light watch though, as fans will get to explore the characters who were untouched in the original Clannad series.
Episode 9 to 11 really saw the transition of the anime from a school based setting over to adulthood. Tomoya graduates and sets out to be independent. Looking for a job and a place of his own. Well job on the transition of the setting. Definitely felt smooth and natural. Things also starts to get reaaally heavy, emotionally, now. To be honest, by now, I was so captivated that I lost all ability to jot down notes for this review. The anime had grab hold of my heart and I was focused a 110% attention. All the way to episode 16, the first climax, and another climax in the later episodes, and to the end of the series, I was either crying for joy or wiping tears of despair (Am still contemplating if I should actually post this statement.. Hazukashi-des). I just couldn’t bring myself to write anymore, every time I do, I wet my eyes. Imagine my joy when they had a somewhat “acceptable” ending (Hmm… Wondering what does “acceptable” mean? WATCH THE ANIME! Lol!). What felt like a slow start at the beginning of Clannad: After Story really made way for a phenomenally great ending. Again, I will say this, ONE OF THE BEST ANIMES EVER!
Clannad: After Story
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: SS-Eclipse
Clannad
Tomoya Okazaki is a third year high school student resentful of his life. His mother passed away from a car accident when he was younger, causing his father to resort to alcohol and gambling. This results in fights between the two until Tomoya’s shoulder is injured in a fight. Since then, Tomoya has had distant relationships with his father, causing him to become a delinquent over time. While on a walk to school, he meets a strange girl named Nagisa Furukawa who is a year older, but is repeating due to illness. Due to this, she is often alone as most of her friends have moved on. The two begin hanging out and slowly, as time goes by, Tomoya finds his life shifting in a new direction. Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
First 2 episodes and I knew that it was an anime I would have regretted missing. Clannad is one superb anime being able to be soothing yet heavy. Filled with emotions and does a proper job of passing on what it’s trying to express. Definitely one of the best tear-jerker animes yet. Throughout the series, I couldn’t help but wonder if the intro scenes of the other world and the girl and robot will play any role in the main story. No slapstick comedy here, just simple sarcastic replies which were very good and funny. Well… maybe a little slapstick here and there, mostly coming from Sunohara. Whereas Tomoya is more of the sarcastic cool type. I could tell more about the characters, but I couldn’t do that without giving at last some hints of spoilers. And I really really think you need to watch this one for yourself. So I’ll take a pass on character introductions. It really is THAT good!
Expect to get wet droopy eyes within every 3 episodes or so. Whether it be of joy or sadness. Clannad will take you on a roller coaster ride and fill you with emotions. It can make you feel extremely happy and terribly sad and it can do both in a single episode. It scares me to think I may not find a better storytelling anime than Clannad. The script and way the story was told was just so crazily flawless.
Remember how I once complained in Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya about how characters lack depth in terms of family or background wise? Well, Clannad really shows how it’s done! Most characters had their family background at least a little developed. Tomoya and his dad, Nagisa and her family, Kotomi and her family, Sunohara and his sister, and others. And now compare it with an anime without any relevant scenes of the main casts’ family. See my point? It really makes the character come alive with feelings as viewers can understand and can relate them to their family.
The animation is also really good. Pay close attention and I could notice how detailed the scenes were. Really enhanced each scenes and the mood it was bringing in the viewers. Initially the face of the characters looked a little weird to me. Seemed like their eyes were too far apart and really too big, especially Nagisa. But I am glad that I got used to it and really enjoyed it later on. Started to get all Moe over it even.
The opening theme, Megumeru-cuckool mix 2007, and the scenes of the other world brought about a serious feel to the anime. Not that the anime needed it, all throughout the episodes you can already feel it’s a very mature series. Very settling and comfortable. Anyone thinks that the opening theme reminds them of Noein? Sounded slightly similar to me and kept bringing up Noein memories to me.
The ending theme, Dango Daikazuku, was really nice and soothing. Definitely a must have! And the BGM, oh my god! It was superb. Every tune felt so touching. Every time a BGM played to a scene, I would get Goosebumps or wet eyes guaranteed. Yet another perfect aspect of Clannad!
Episode 14 also showed an important part of character scripting. In earlier episodes, the anime introduced Nishima Rie, a character with just a few scenes. Seemed like someone you can ignore. But during later episodes, Nishima was brought out again. This time playing a bigger role in the current storyline. The thing is, because Nishima was already slightly explored in the earlier episodes, viewers can already relate to her without needing a reintroduction which would be just a waste of episode. Triple Thumbs Up!
The first few episodes introduced this anime’s cast. Another Thumbs Up! As every character had a role to play and was significant. In no way were any of the characters redundant. Episode 5 to 9 showed Fuko’s story. It was so touching! I have honestly NEVER cried so much from watching an anime before. Come to think of it, I have never cried so much from watching ANYTHING before, no movies, no live series, none! Definitely get a tissue box ready by your side. Episode 10 and it was back to the funnies. This time with the story surrounding Kotomi and her violin wielding powers Lol! It did a good job of lifting up the mood again from the sense of loss after watching the conclusion of Fuko’s story at episode 9. By episode 12, a slight mystery develops based on Kotomi’s and Tomoya’s past and their relationship to one another. Keep an eye out for a special appearance in episode 12. And yet again, without failure another beautiful story is put together for the ending of Kotomi’s storyline in episode 14. The episodes after that seemed like it had a bit of everything, from Tomoya’s background to the development of the Theatre Club. Episode 17 and finally Tomoya starts to consider his true feelings and how everyone around him was starting to express their feelings for him in a more direct way. That ends somewhat good as the series starts to explore Nagisa’s past in episode 19, setting up for the final storyline. And also finally! The mystery of the other world with the girl and the robot starts to unfold. The anime felt climaxed at episode 22 and was just playing episode 23 out. That is the only slight fuss I have for Clannad. I really feel that they could have milk more tears out of episode 22, maybe by having the story use the final episode slot as well. Otherwise, it’s just perfect.
Clannad
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: SS-Eclipse
Erm… Anyone noticed the new Honda Civic drive by at episode 21? Lol! Just something to share. Felt like an “Easter egg” of some sort.
Magister Negi Magi!
10-year old Negi Springfield is a wizard-in-training, and needs only to pass one more test in order to become a Master Wizard. Unfortunately, his final task is a bizarre one – to become an English teacher at an all-female boarding school. As soon as he arrives, he completely embarrasses one of his students, Asuna Kagurazaka, and replaces the teacher she loves, which garners her hatred. To make matters worse, Asuna learns that Negi is a wizard, and promises to tell unless he helps her out. But, unfortunately, circumstances force them to work together to do many things together, from fighting evil wizards to helping the class pass their final exam, with a lot of humor, magic and romances thrown in. Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
Magister Negi Magi is a nice and light anime to watch. Felt like the studio took it’s time and laid out a nice steady pace for the story to develop and really grow. The roles each character play are clear and might get a little predictable though. I’m pretty much able to assume lots of stuff after a few episodes, but was still hoping for the unpredictable to happen. Just some random twist in the story to really crank things up a notch. After watching the seventh episode or so, you‘d come to realize that most of the students are not as simple as they appear to be, as you come across robots, vampires, and kung-fu fighting students. There are some slight inconsistencies which seemed too obvious yet intended. Example, at one episode, Asuna claims that no one knows that Chachamaru is a robot. Yet in another episode, the Robotics Club was practically “upgrading” Chachamaru.
The comedy was really good, a little slapstick feel but not anything too silly. Just simple and sweet fun, nothing deep or hidden. From the start, it is crystal clear what the anime aims to achieve, which is to give you a good time and entertain. And what it is meant to do, it does so well. This is one title you can watch years later and still have a good time.
Animation is pleasing to the eyes. Just don’t expect anything fancy and a little obvious it’s from the yesteryears, but still acceptable by all means. Good old fashion solid colors and clear solid lines. Animation in the last episode seems to be a step up compared to the other episodes though. Character designs are good too, with normal proportioned body figure and decently drawn looks. Although sometimes Negi’s size looks a little off scale when standing beside his students. At times he looks way too small.
The main opening, Happy Material, and ending theme, Kagayaku Kimi He, are pretty good. They are all sung by the voice casts of the students. Not only does it go with the mood of the anime but it has a really nice beat to it.
Asuna nails her role perfectly, being very lively but showing compassion and heart as required by the variety of scenes. The transition from hating Negi to being a good friend felt a little too rushed. But although becoming good friends very early in the series, the hatred Asuna felt before that was well expressed and at least they didn’t overplay that. I kept wondering what story falls behind the different colored eyes of Asuna, and when it would be revealed. Unfortunately, it never will. Lol!
Negi could very well be my new definition of Male Moe! Lol! Soft spoken and with a cute appearance, he always save the day with his fast reaction and magic skills. In terms of anime characters, I have always hated indecisive personalities, those who portray being too weak to speak up for themselves, or those who always says they are forced to doing things they don’t want to but didn’t even try to fight back. But surprisingly, not only did I NOT hate Negi’s “obedience” to Asuna. But their relationship grew on me as they got more and more attached. It is good that they focused on some of Negi’s background, his intentions of why he pursued magic and his actions are also well scripted. Instead of just going around showing romance between the students and him, which could have made this “just another harem”.
I absolutely adore Nodoka. Although lacking in depth compared to Negi or Asuna throughout the series, her appearance always feels welcomed. Not because I like her character, but in the sense that the anime always does a nice setting to prepare for Nodoka’s appearance. Hmm… This might be a little hard to elaborate on. An example would be showing Nodoka at the library borrowing books. And Negi near the garden stairs. As the books obstruct Nodoka’s view, she trips and falls down the stairs only to be saved by Negi. As compared to other characters which just suddenly pop out of nowhere to be hugging Negi etc. etc. Get my drift? :p
Kumo, I’m not a big fan of. I was just playing it out. Seeing if I would get attached or take a liking to him as the series progressed. But at the end of it, I’m just glad he didn’t hog up the airtime. One thing I just want to mention, doesn’t the principle looks like a perfect candidate for the next Macross movie? Putting him alongside the Zentradi’s. Lol! As for the other student characters, read on below.
Initially I was going to write about each episode and its story and characters. But by episode 10, I was pretty stunned at the sheer amount of characters in play. So I just dropped the idea. Instead, I thought of Googling for an online source and linking it
here. However, the only source I found was this and I felt it wasn’t focused enough on this original series. So I’ve decided to do an article on the full character study of all the students and probably some of the main teachers. But it is going to be a long term project for me. In a way, you can say it’s just another excuse to watch this anime again. Lol!
Talk about perfect timing! Just at the beginning of episode 20, during the story of the Kyodo trip, I was just thinking out loud “They better not end the whole series in a comedy, it would be a waste” and indeed, the pace changed. Ask and ye shall receive! Lol! The anime threw in some action. Konoka was explored and the Honranji was introduced. Don’t need to take note of Honranji though, it’s just that a name for the villains; a one episode deal.
From there to the end of this series, things really take a turn as it explores Asuna and her emotional problems among other minor things. I didn’t see the Asuna story coming at all! A “WTF! How the hell could you kill off Asuna!” escape my mouth and sure as hell frightened my family. Lol!
Finished the whole series and still there is no episode that felt redundant, no episode to complain on. It’s just that you never expect any particular episode to bring deep meaning in the first place. The huge amount of characters really is this animes’ strong point. Cycling through different groups of characters with a variety of story plots keeping things fresh, yet still focusing on its main characters Negi and Asuna to explore and develop them thoroughly. This anime really excels in terms of this. Magister Negi Magi really is a main dish served with lots of laughter, a pink of affection and just a dash of action. Tasty!
Negima! / Magister Negi Magi (Season 1)/ Mahou Sensei Negima
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Mahou_Sensei_Negima_Mega-Pack The only torrent I found, but don’t expect much quality wise. Please check details before downloading.
Ok, Major confusion finally cleared. The original series is Negima! (a.k.a Magister Negi Magi or Mahou Sensei Negima) which is this anime I’m posting about now.
Not to be confused with the remake called Negima!? with the addition of the question mark in it’s title. Which tells a slightly different storyline. The part to watch out for is that some places (like here in Malaysia) sells Negima! and Negima!? under the same title but calls it as “Season 1″ (for Negima!) and “Season 2″ (for Negima!?) instead. And all the while I kept looking around anime shops for Negima!? when I’ve already bought it under the title of Magister Negi Magi Season 2. Lol! The confusion!!
Shikabane Hime: Kuro
A direct continuation of Shikabane Hime: Aka, taking place six months after Tagami Keisei’s death at the hands of the Akasha and Shichisei (Seven Stars), a group of elite Shikabane who act on more than just regrets. As per Keisei’s dying wish, Kagami Oori formed a temporary contract with Makina to save her from degenerating into a mere Shikabane. Since then, Oori has been training to become a proper monk so that he can remain contracted to Makina and help her fight against the Shichisei, the ones who originally killed Makina, the entire Hoshimura family, and now Keisei. However, the traitorous monk Shishidou Akasha has sided with the Shichisei in an attempt to destroy all Shikabane Himes and the entire monk organization that uses them, the Kougon Sect. Source: AnimeNewsNetwork.com
The Kuro series is different from Aka in the sense that Aka took its time to develop the characters and had Shikabane Himes fight other random Shikabanes not related to the main plot. But in Kuro, it pretty much starts off knocking down members of Shichisei one by one. This made the battles felt more personal and that definitely makes it more interesting. However, even with the strong plot, battles felt uninspired as it was done with rather mediocre animation which, I’m glad to say, did improve later on in the series. Thankfully, the story gets interesting as the focus is now on the battle between Shichisei and everyone else.
There were actually a lot of parts where I got really irritated by Makina, which was later revealed that it was all part of a certain plot or plan which is actually very well scripted. I should have known better before hitting the hate button.
Akasha just plays a very interesting villain. His hate is well justified and his character is well explored. Definitely the most interesting character since a while now. Even his past was more interesting than Oori’s.
During the first few episodes, Makina’s negativity really tested Oori for his resilience to remain as her Contracted Priest as she still couldn’t let go of Keisei. And Makina running amok didn’t help things between Oori and Kougonshuu either.
Episode 8 and everything about Oori’s past starts unveiling itself. And finally the cat revealed its true nature. Kudos on finally making use of the cat and giving it a well thought-out role to play. Well, it had to be a role of certain significance after all that tagging along.
For what felt like an exciting plot already, I didn’t expect the ending to be able to get every more exciting. And finally upon reaching episode 12, Congrats! You are now left hanging! It ended in the middle of a battle. Just like that! -_-“ PppfFFfffTTttt… However, I remember reading somewhere about episode 13 coming out in August. So be patient and cross your fingers hoping it will be worth the wait.
And now, the issue which always ticks off a nerve or two in me. Some of the characters proportions are getting crazier by the episodes. You would expect Kougonshuu to be wiped out by now seeing how they seem to only contract Shikabanes with insanely huge stuffs (think Itsuki, Fresh, Minai) instead of more “combat friendly” figured Shikabanes (think Saki). Hmm… I just thought of this, but the most “decent” sized figure belongs to Saki and her contracted priest is the only female in Kougonshuu. Coincidence? I think not. Now what does that tell you about Kougonshuu and how farked up their priests are? “Enlightment” my arse.
Initially Shikabane Hime: Aka started off with a bang. But halfway along the series, the tempo was lost and I couldn’t feel the enthusiasm. Then Shikabane Hime: Kuro came. Sure it starts off with the main battles right away, but still it didn’t feel motivated. Halfway through the Kuro series and things really starts to pick up a notch. I really enjoyed the plot and script from the second half of the series on, things were unpredictable and kept me on the edge of my seat. Now if only the rumored 13th episode comes out sooner before I lose the flame.
Shikabane Hime: Kuro
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Tomodachi
Naruto Shippuudden: Kizuna
Konoha has suddenly been attacked by flying shinobis from the Sky Country. It turns out to be revenge for the Second Great Ninja War in the past which Konoha destroyed the Sky Country. At the same time, a doctor and his apprentice, Shinou and Amaru appeared in Konoha requesting aid for their village on the outskirts of Fire Country. As they also have been attacked by the Sky Country. Naruto, Sakura and Hinata teams up to form a three-man cell to accompany and help Shinou and Amaru as they head on to their village. Meanwhile, Shikamaru and other ninja’s takes the offensive to attack Sky Country’s fleet before they can launch a second attack. Do not miss this, Naruto Shippuuden: Bonds also known as Naruto Shippuuden: Kizuna.
More info from AnimeNewsNetwork.com.
While previous Naruto movies always take a longer portion of the anime to build depth to characters and settings, this movie really doesn’t waste any time. Instead, there is action right away starting with a short but awesomely crafted war sequence. The war sequence feels like it was inspired from the Pearl Harbor history.
The way they do it is to have 2 stories told, focusing on 2 different places, at the same time. On one side, Shikamaru, Kakashi, Sai and another ninja (Be Surprised!) are attacking the Sky Country’s main fleet. At another location, Naruto, Amaru, Sakura and Hinata are engaging whom I assume to be the leader of the Sky Country. Hmm! Now that I think about it, he never revealed his true rank or position in the Sky Country uprising.
When the pace slows down as Naruto’s squad encounters the enemy and a lot of talking is taking place, they turn the spotlight over to Shikamaru and his squad, showing some battle scenes before re-focusing on Naruto. Hence, it really does feel like there is non-stop action. This is the most unique attribute of this movie.
They really should give Sakura and Hinata some solid roles. And maybe I haven’t got my Naruto facts straight, but since when did Hinata become a medical ninja? (She was helping out in the hospital right). While the background of Amaru and Shinou is not elaborated thoroughly, in no way does the characters feel dense. Instead of doing multiple scenes of the past, characters develop depth as they explain their course of actions with one-lined scripts thrown in every now and then. This is again another unique attribute which differentiates Kizuna among other Naruto movies. The somewhat softer side of Sasuke is portrayed in this movie. It is a good and welcomed change from the constant cold and placid reaction normally expected from him.
The animation is superb. And the best part is that it is consistent throughout the movie. The coloring is solid and well moderated as per usual Naruto episodes. But it’s the well drawn outlines and fluid motions which really make the animation in this movie stand out. I hope you notice this as an anime fan but the facial expressions in this movie is OUT OF THIS WORLD! Now that’s what I call acting.
As for sound wise, two words says it all “Dolby Ownage”. And the combination of the above mentioned animation and sound, Golden!
Naruto Shippuudden: Kizuna a.k.a Naruto Shippuudden: Bonds
Rating: 5-Stars
Torrents: Dattebayo
Darle?