Stories aren't always about narratives. Sometimes, we can discover more ideas by ourselves if we put our efforts through. And of course, discovery comes from experiences. For a certain shy and dull looking (I think she's cute though) girl according to her peers, she's about to experience some whole new changes in her life.
Her name is Izumiko Suzuhara, the Red Data Girl.
RDG: Red Data Girl is an anime series adapted from the light novel of the same name written by Noriko Ogiwara (The Good Witch of the West). Her talent of writing involves in the field of fantasy and supernatural so expect some of those
...
themes from RDG. Otherwise, P.A. Works handles the production of the series. They are known for their usages of serene visuals and clearly does not disappoint; at least in the art department. However, the experiences I got out of this series is not exactly enthralling or exciting. In fact, it was something quite different.
In essence, this series is like a fantasy but takes place in modern times. The time period it takes place seems to be normal and likely perspective to our very own 21st century without high tech gadgets or space cars. Rather, it is a normal and typical school life setting in a modern civilization of development. Suzuhara Izumiko is the main female protagonist in this and she's always been shy. Even from the first episode, it's easy to pick out from the fact that she has a hard time socializing with others or being part of a group. It's not too surprising though by her nature considering the fact that she has been raised in the mountains. Or rather, Suzuhara has been associated with the Tamakura Shrine and along with her miko outfit, we can consider her to be a shrine maiden.
The series spells out some confusion and mystery. For example, Suzuhara seems to have a strange power that lies dominant in her and these powers are let out when she is near technology. This is proven when electronic gadgets she comes in contact with results in destruction. Additionally, her glasses when removed seems to gave her visions of the supernatural, or otherworldly beings. From an initial standpoint, it's hard to tell anything by how these powers came to be. For one thing, we know that it's some sort of ability and very likely has a connection with Suzuhara's origins. It spells out mystery and the viewers' curiousity may peak from some of these aspects; at least I know I did. Regardless of her strange abilties though, Suzuhara enrolls to Hōjō High School in Tokyo where her life becomes more normal. At least, that's what she originally hoped.
Then on the opposite of the globe is Miyuki Sagara. This guy is essentially introduced as a prick. His attitude is literally a bully by the way he talks to Suzuhara and behaves around her. For whatever reason, Miyuki seems Suzuhara as a nuisance and more so because he is assigned to be her protector. Luckily though, their relationship seems to get better and possibly even go on the road of romance. It's at least not in the friend zone section but the two definitely has some engaging moments. These moments are captured by their dialogues and some development, especially after a certain event that reveals an even deeper secret of Suzuhara.
The secrets in this series also reveals some other aspects with the character cast. Take example, Mayura Sōda who is known as a cherry girl with friendly demeanor. However, she has more secrets and particularly gets caught in a rivalry among the school grounds. Among other factors, perhaps the biggest secret revolves again with Suzuhara. We learn that there's a supernatural vessel within her. It could be something related to a divinity or a goddess. We don't know too much about it but it has connections with her origins and the mysterious powers that she possesses. Unfortunately for her, she knows little about her origins herself or those powers. She does have a knight in shining armor though. But even so, Suzuhara still can't live the normal life a young teenage girl. With the ability to destroy electronic devices through an unintentional or intentional touch, she won't ever be able to use iphones, listen to ipods, or watching anime on a computer like most people. Damn, shame.
Among other factors, there's the serene like atmosphere that is constantly present in the show. The mountain atmosphere gives off a fresh scent of the settings and brings out a sense of realism in Tokyo that makes you feel right at home. The way some of the structures are designed as well to fit within the traditional Japanese ways. Needless to say, it presents its Shinto themes in the right direction. After all, Shinto is considered a spirituality and in Tokyo, there are many practices that establishes connections between them. In RDG, we can see some of the way the characters are dressed, the monuments, the festivals, the clear mountains, and shrines that are all over the place. The school itself is traditional and consists more of the modern atmosphere rather than anything too out of place.
Unfortunately, the show is hard to grasp and connect together. There's a lot of confusion among the characters and what's there. The plot itself is also a bit loose and I find it dull at various occasions. The Shinto atmosphere might also not fit well for target audiences. In fact, RDG is more the type of the show where we have to expect the pace to start off slow, flow smoothly, and hopefully wrap up in a tolerable way. However, I find the pacing to be a bit intolerable. At many occasions, I find that the plot itself to be just too dull. It tries to present its story with a mythical narrative that plays along influences of the Japanese culture. At the same time, the way it executes it is not so exciting. Unless of course you're really interested in the Asian culture along with Japanese traditions, Red Data Girl may not be for you. However, there are instances though that I find the series to be interesting. The title character Suzuhara keeps her innocent outlook and seems to be on the side of a 'coming of age' drama. She is the 'miko' and host of a powerful divinity.
But for some things to care, there are the visuals. P.A Works handles the production of this series and the artwork gives a definition of beauty. As mentioned before, the artwork aesthetics gives the details to the surrounding atmosphere as well as the nature of the series. There's the mountain, the shrines, the outfits, and even spirits to match traditional Japanese ethnics. Of course, Suzuhara herself is drawn as a plain girl with the nerdy glasses and braids to match her statue. For one, I am pleased that P.A. Works is involved in this as it gave me a nostologia of Hanasaku Iroha and Tari Tari; at least in terms of visuals.
As for the soundtrack, the series maintains a balanced rhythm. It's nothing too special to take notice of as most of the time, the OST remains smooth and light. There's no intense beats or rock. Rather, there's this linear pace of natural sound. The OP song "Small worldrop" by Annabel is sung with a smooth voice and at the same time shows some possible foreshadowing. Then, there are the ED songs that plays off the traditional themes again. In the song itself, we can see that Suzuhara is walking as in a possible reference to her development in a modern coming of age/fantasy story.
Ultimately, I'd say this series is a gamble to watch. Some people may like the serene backgrounds along with the spiritual vibe that gives off while watching the show. Then of course, there are others who may be bored out of their lives of trying to figure out what is going on. Then, there are the folks who watches the show to pass time. It's a tough gamble but I hope it'll play well for you. Now, phew that was a lot of data to absorb, or rather info.
Alternative Titles
Synonyms: RDG
Japanese: RDG レッドデータガール
More titlesInformation
Type:
TV
Episodes:
12
Status:
Finished Airing
Aired:
Apr 4, 2013 to Jun 20, 2013
Premiered:
Spring 2013
Broadcast:
Unknown
Licensors:
Funimation
Studios:
P.A. Works
Source:
Novel
Duration:
24 min. per ep.
Rating:
PG-13 - Teens 13 or older
Statistics
Ranked:
#66532
2
based on the top anime page. Please note that 'Not yet aired' and 'R18+' titles are excluded.
Popularity:
#1923
Members:
111,765
Favorites:
239
Available AtResourcesStreaming Platforms | Reviews
Filtered Results: 42 / 45
Sort
Your Feelings Categories Jun 8, 2013
Stories aren't always about narratives. Sometimes, we can discover more ideas by ourselves if we put our efforts through. And of course, discovery comes from experiences. For a certain shy and dull looking (I think she's cute though) girl according to her peers, she's about to experience some whole new changes in her life.
Her name is Izumiko Suzuhara, the Red Data Girl. RDG: Red Data Girl is an anime series adapted from the light novel of the same name written by Noriko Ogiwara (The Good Witch of the West). Her talent of writing involves in the field of fantasy and supernatural so expect some of those ... Apr 29, 2013
I was really excited to try out this new anime this season. I saw its description on this website, and I thought "okay, that sounds really interesting. A romance between a goddess girl who can't touch electricity and her servant protector of sorts." I even liked the first episode and thought the main character could become one of my favourites eventually. My only complaint was that I couldn't make much sense of the anime. But I figured that they would end up explaining things eventually, as it's only a 12 episode anime. 7 episodes in, and I have no idea what the hell is going
...
Jun 27, 2013
I'm supposed to be studying right now but whatever.
Okay, unlike the majority of the reviews, I actually liked Red Data Girl. It's surprising 'cause I'm easily influenced by the reviews here on MAL. Before I watch an anime or read a manga, I always check MAL and read the reviews so as to see if it the said anime/manga is worth it. But before I read the reviews on RDG, I watched a few episodes of it. And well, I really liked it. I think the best factor that got me hooked into the anime was the art (and maybe Miyuki /shot xD) and also the ... Jun 8, 2013
RDG: Red Data Girl: Too Much Data And Not Enough Storage
I have to say that this might be the first time I'm genuinely disappointed with a P.A. Works anime. After creating some wildly successful series like Angel Beats and Another, I had reason to believe that P.A. Works could be developing into a strong production company. Unfortunately, I have to chalk RDG up as a dud in their repertoire. I thought with the plot that this series had, it had to the potential to be really good but fell flat in the two biggest aspects...it's story and it's characters. The biggest problem with this series is ... Jul 27, 2013
Every season, at least one show comes along that has the potential to impress, whether it would be due to a particularly interesting premise, an animation studio associated with quality work, or a staff who has been known to work well together in the past. However, for whatever reasons, that show does not fare well in execution, ending up either forgettable or just plain disappointing. The Spring 2013 season was no exception to this, having a few flops in and of itself. However, personally, one show perfectly encapsulates this idea: P.A. Works' offering, Red Data Girl.
... Sep 21, 2014
It's been years since I first reviewed this, so I want to change my review a bit! When I first watched it, I didn't quite understand the context and the culture surrounding it. However, I always find myself returning to this anime as I am personally attached to it for many reasons. It is truly a hidden gem.
--------------------------------------------- STORY 8/10: It starts off at the Kumano Shrine in the Kii Mountains where Izumiko Suzuhara lives. She lacks self-confidence and does not feel like a normal girl. Any technology she touches stops working. (Spoiler I guess?) -> It is soon learned that she is the next ... Jul 10, 2014
What the flameo happened here?
I know that it is easy to be a critic and all... but: This Anime is best summed up by an announcement made at 20:44 in the last episode of the series: "Uh, at this point we are still unable to determine exactly what is happening." If you watch that scene before watching the series you might think to yourself that you would be able to figure out what is actually happening if you had watched the entire series... good luck. Admittedly my misunderstanding(s) and non-understanding(s) could be due to the fact that I don't know much about Shinto legends. ... Jul 9, 2013
"Red Data Girl" is not an anime you would expect by the name alone. You may expect something along the lines of Modern-Science Fiction as I was, but as they say don't judge a book by this cover. The origin of the name is actually quite interesting (you will find out in the OP). This anime revolves around the Shinto religion. You may not understand some parts of RDG if you are not educated in the Shinto religion. It brings to mind when you're watching "Rurouni Kenshin", you may not understand some parts if you are not fully versed in the history of Japan. Even
...
May 21, 2013
The story of RDG is extremely good in the way it's done. They bring in cultural elements that are accurate and develop them into the story. Seeing as though the season is only 12 episodes the story goes at a pace which isn't fast but certainly isn't slow. The story is confusing, but the basic overall plot is revealed in the second episode. It gets add to constantly seeing as though with only 12 episodes, they really cannot waste one.
As with most P.A works pieces, it's very visually appealing. It isn't the best visually but has an overall look that does not disappoint. Certain moments, ... Jun 2, 2013
After watching 11 episodes of this anime, I can safely say that this anime is strangely enticing. Focused on a goddess girl that can contact spirits/ghosts but only wanting to be a normal girl. The story is not all that interesting, and seems to have no correlation to it's name either.
The art in this anime is seemingly unique, but not the best. The characters are very typical and nothing out-of-the-ordinary aside from a few spirits that take on the form of other living things. The music isn't all that overwhelming although the opening and ending themes give a sort of eerie feel and are nice ... Jun 9, 2013
K i know it's weird I'm giving it such a high score, but
It isn't full 100% The scores don't give such a range and it's close enough to being that good. I honestly don't know why people are giving such low scores. People are saying that PA Works disappointed them this time, but I don't see how. That was amazing. Honestly. it really blended Japanese "religious/culture" well with a normal everyday "Fantasy" anime. It works. The story was well written, the script was well-written, and for me, that's something big. The story goes at a reasonable pace and it's slightly confusing, but they explain it ... Jun 21, 2013
It's always difficult for me to put a number and rate series that I have watched and as a result my numerical ratings tend to vary greatly. I can best express my opinions of a show through words.
After the first episode this show began to draw me in. I was really interested in it. The story seemed very interesting and I liked all of the characters. I ended up liking the show more and more as I continued watching. In addition to the plot and characters I also really enjoyed the scenery, art, concept, and soundtrack. This show had a lot of great things going ... Jun 4, 2015
I didn't get it...at all!!
I didn't understood the plot, or the characters. There is this girl who wants to change and the boy besides her who doesn't want to be with her. Then you got a goddess whom can destroy the world and a bunch of kids fighting to be number one on high school... Then there is a lot of magic, spells, and ghosts. It is a hot mess. I don't know why I even watch it all. Can someone please give me my precious time back!!! Sep 29, 2013
In my opinion the most Underappreciated anime of the year.
RDG: Red Data Girl received a lot of mediocre reviews. While i do disagree with these reviews i can understand why. This is not an anime for everybody.About 50 percent of the time it's hard to understand just what the hell is going on. Though confusing, the story is very interesting and personally kept me entertained throughout. The art was solid, Nothing exceptional but solid. The Soundtrack was quite good, especially the Ending, which was very calm sounding. There were characters i loved and characters i hated, i loved the two main characters and their relationship, it was my favorite ... Jun 8, 2013
When I read about RDG: Red Data Girl airing in Spring 2013, I was kind of excited. The whole Synopsis sounded really good. Now that it has finished airing, I can safely say it was not what I expected!
Story: The story centers around a girl, that is "possessed" by a goddess and can't handle anything electric, since it breaks the moment she touches it. She has been raised in the mountains, but one day decides to go to Tokyo and enter a High School there. The Plot is based on different Shinto legends and sounds quite intriguing. Reality though looks a bit different. I liked the ... Jun 9, 2013
This anime is like eating a sandwich packed and full to the highest level. It looks good but somehow parts of it fall off and it's a waste.
Story: The start was really good, even the synopsis which is why I expected a lot from this anime, expecting it to be one of the best this season even but somehow even with the cute romance part between Izumiko and Miyuki, the end really failed to leave a satisfying ending. There's a lot of confusion in my part maybe because I haven't read the LN but that just makes it more reason that the story should be properly explained ... Jun 10, 2013
Red Data Girl was the anime of the season that seemed like it was a filler. While it looked nice and was quite visually appealing in terms of animation, its plot and characters did not own up to the nice treatment the animators did in the studio.
Story wise, this anime seemed like something that needed a full 26 episode season to convey what they tried to convey in 13. The plot had many major holes, and the story seemed rushed throughout the majority of this series. This is certainly not an anime to watch for the story, and if anything it was just something to ... Aug 31, 2015
So, it seems most people seem to have a problem comprehending this anime... admittedly this may be due to there being a discrepancy between the novels/manga and the anime (manga ended in 2014, anime in 2013, although the novel came out in 2012)... and, I suspect, it contains more than the anime reveals. Still, every individual episode on its own seemed to make sense, especially if one makes sense of the abstruse language characters often use.
It is a Shinto tale, so some researching could be useful at times (there are quite a lot of references, although not knowing the legends behind them doesn't necessarily preclude ... Mar 6, 2016
While the animation style was pretty good, I can't say that I liked much more than that. The anime wasn't that interesting overall, and it felt more like a chore to watch it then to actually enjoy the show.
A lot of the character and plot development was either sloppy and cliche or really hard to follow. I did enjoy the sound track, and it did match the backgrounds and moods of the anime pretty well. Overall it wasn't a horrible anime, but it was boring enough to the point where I didn't want to watch it. While I personally didn't completely love the ... Jul 15, 2015
I didn't think that I would like this anime that much - I was wrong. The art is lovely and I loved the way that the characters were slowly brought to each other - it made it feel a little bit more realistic. The story was interesting and I - hopefully - plan on reading more into it in the future.
|