Ranked #174

Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei

Though the season has of now not yet ended, I couldn't help but write this review, so please bear with me.

First off, to those who haven't yet watched this series, do yourselves a favor and immediately check out the first season. It's not that you won't be able to enjoy it, but you'll pretty much be caught in a whirlwind of referential jokes otherwise.

'Story': As usual, it doesn't have a story per se, but an immense load of material. Like the previous seasons, be prepared(i.e. watch other series) to encounter a deluge of metaphors choc full of social references and criticism, and of course, despair.
Art and animation: Well, it's SHAFT. Altogether colorful and sometimes playful. With plenty of split-second scenes, stock backgrounds and colours, and the usual bit of experimentation, watching the animation while catching the jokes is a treat for the eyes(don't be afraid of a little blood..)
Sound: Besides the usual sound effects, we once again get more Otsuki Kenji and Zetsubou Girls! The opening and ending themes, like those from the previous seasons are worth listening on their own.
Character: I have to say that this season has some of the most hilarious character-based humour so far. Not as many new characters are introduced, but certain girls seem to get a lot of action, the 'proper' kind, mind you.

Altogether, I give this season an 8 to 8,5.
Remember to despair over a fourth season ;) read more