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*WARNING! THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!*

For the past few years, people have been joking about specific series being the 'savior of anime'. Do enough research and you will find both spectrum's of the argument that anime is either on the decline in quality or rising up more with quantity. Personally I chose not to get too involved because I reassured myself that I still had my old favorites to fall back on if newer series began to feel bland to me. That said, around the half way point of 2014 I began to lose interest in ... more and more series, I would actually drop more than half of the series I started each season for a while, until Spring of 2015, when my own personal savior of anime aired and renewed my passion for watching new shows. My name in FullMetalRaven and this is my review of Kekkai Sensen (Blood Blockade Battlefront).

So 'BBB', as some like to call it, is one of the interesting anime series out there that takes place outside of Japan; New York City, or rather, Hellsalem's Lot, is a boiling pot for humans of any race and monsters of the underworld ranging from beastmen to even vampires just give an example. The story focuses on a boy named Leo who is trying to make a living in this extraordinary city while also being apart of Libra, an organization of supermen who work to keep the city and ultimately, THE WHOLE WORLD, out of peril. BBB's main plot can be described as episodic with an over-arching story involving Leo's run ins with different people and, well, non-people(?), and the dark plot that could potentially lead to mankinds demise. Simply put, don't expect much of a grand story from just a 12 episode anime with a manga that had been on hiatus at the time of its airing; because while on the surface the story is all over the place and hectic, beneath lies a incredibly deep and inspiring tale about how 'anyone can be a hero'.

As I said, Leo is 'ordinary' but he possesses a powerful ability called 'The All Seeing Eyes of the Gods' which can basically do anything eye sight related; see things at microscopic level, x-ray vision, hell he can see onto other plains of existence with just a bad headache being the only repercussion! But besides that Leo didn't spend his whole life training to fight monsters, thus when push comes to shove he can't compete with people like Klaus, the ultimate gentlemanly vampire hunter, or Zapp, a near master swordsman; but you know what's awesome? He doesn't back down; this teenage boy who gets beat up and dragged through the dirt almost every episode ALWAYS stands back up and faces his current predicament head on and to me, THAT is an amazing premise for a TV anime series that I can get behind. I'm a regular 'shounen/action' fan where the hero always has some way of winning through friendship, so really this kind of story is just a massive breath of fresh air!

Now I've talked a quite a bit about Leo and the reason is because, in this anime adaption, he is one of the more developed characters. As stated above Libra is full of people with supernatural abilities ranging from manipulating blood into weapons or controlling the elements like freezing the air or conducting electricity. These people are bad-asses of the highest caliber, but the sad part is nothing much about their personal backstories is revealed; no explanation of how they all got their powers, where they all came from or why Libra was formed to begin with. Then you have the 'anime original' characters, the twins White and Black; these two are central to the plot the series works towards and thus they come with their own heartbreaking backstory that mirrors Leo's relationship with his own little sister, as both pairs would do anything for the well being of the other even sacrificing their own happiness for the other.

Studio BONES adapted this series and the animation is nothing but absolutely gorgeous to look at. My one nitpick is that the last episode recycles a few scenes from the first but really to keep the animation quality at its highest I can get over a few cut corners. The music is very western inspired and reminds me a lot of the anime Baccano with plenty of jazz tracks; as well as a few classic American songs like 'What a Wonderful Life'. The theme songs are some of my favorites in general; 'Hello World!' is inspirational and does an amazing job building itself up in the minute and a half long segment and 'Sugar Song to Bitter Step' is a perfect, wacky closer for a wacky series. I have only watched the series in Japanese but I do plan to watch the dub as I do like dubbed anime that are influenced by the west like FMA; fun fact, Leo and Zapp are voiced by the same voice-actors as Shinpachi and Hijikata respectably from Ginatama and are part of the reason I decided to start watching it.

So why do I hold this series so high up among all my other favorites, even though it's still pretty new? Well at the time this aired I had been anticipating ANY news about Digimon Adventure Tri (Digimon being one of the first anime I watched and thus I went complete fanboy-mode whenever something new about this title was revealed) and when it was revealed it would be a movie series, not TV series and I had to wait another six months for the first movie, I was depressed; I literally felt like the Spring anime Season of 2015 had been reduced to nothing because I was so hyped up for the revival of one of my favorite anime of all time. But then I watched BBB; and every episode succeeded had giving me an adrenaline rush with it's action, laughing hysterically at the dysfunctional group of heroes and even sad for certain characters when subjects about their tragic pasts came up. BBB is inspirational; it inspired me to stay positive about myself AND new anime as well; that while you can't expect everything bad coming your way, whether it be an unexpected personal problem in your life or even if a new TV show or two isn't as great as you thought it would be, the best thing to do is look forward and fight on because that is how you will achieve happiness. Once again, I'm FullMetalRaven, this has been my review of BBB and I hope you will like this review if it was helpful and I also welcome any different opinions through the comments on my profile.

UNTIL NEXT TIME!

Okay, Been awhile since my last review so time to get back in the saddle! Parasyte was an anime that began last Fall and ended this last Spring. To just about everyone I know, this is an amazing anime; and at first I agreed. I can tell not many people will like this but I just couldn't handle it after a certain point; it felt more like it was a chore to keep watching so as not to disappoint anyone and that is why I dropped it half-way through. This review is purely my opinion on Parasyte; I know most other people are gonna disagree ... with my view and say I need to finish it but really I don't see myself finishing a show I just don't want to watch...

To start with the story kind of felt like it was 'limiting' itself; by this I mean it only focuses on Shinichi and Migi in Japan and nowhere else most of the time concerning the Parasites. Don't get me wrong; what happens to Shinichi in the beginning is gripping and enjoyable; at first. After the first arc and Shinichi's massive development as a character things just felt... stale, I guess I would put it. Like I get it, there are aliens out there killing people, aliens impersonating people while also acting in messed up ways and the fact that 'Shinichi has CHANGED'; but those plot points constantly being brought up over and over and over is really just a turn off in my opinion.

At least its nice to look at and listen to right? Studio MADHOUSE did an almost perfect job animating this show consistently with, the only real issue I had with it was when it would switch to 3D models when it showed crowds of people walking on the streets and such. Maybe it's just me, but those 3D models looks really stiff and just bothered me every time they popped up. The OP and ED are both great in my opinion as well; 'Let Me Hear' is a perfect mood setter for the show on how it is darker than most shows and the ending 'IT'S THE RIGHT TIME' just mellows you out after all the poop hits the fan. The problem I had with the background music though was when it would get all 'dub-steppy' which yes, I did make that word up and yes, I don't like dub-step.

The main character Shinichi is someone who the audience is meant to feel bad for and hope he can eventually get his life back to 'normal'; that said he still annoyed me after his 'drastic change' because yes, I do like when the main protagonist has FLAWS. I'm not saying he is perfect but going from 'bitch' to 'bull' almost automatically and seemingly just to keep people interested in the story isn't what I'm into. Migi is interesting because he(?) has no idea what is going on sometimes and I feel like the story should of focused on him(?) more; like as messed up as this sounds I think the story would have been more interesting if Shinichi had actually died and Migi moved over to a new host; continuing to learn and understand humans not just from one but multiple hosts. Then there are Murano and Kana; Murano being Shinichi's long time crush who ALWAYS brings up how he isn't the same as before (like to the point where it is infuriatingly annoying); and Kana is the girl who falls for him after his change and in all honesty I wish she had been more central to the story since I liked her more than Murano. Of course there are a few more characters like classmates, police officers, Shinichi's dad and other Parasites; but honestly I just don't care....

Like that is the whole thing for me with this show: I. Don't. Care. I don't care how Shinichi is 'different' and it is making his life harder and harder. I don't care about why the Parasites came to Earth and what their ultimate goal is. And I just can't bring myself to care about whether Shinichi will bang Murano and live to tell the tale! All jokes aside this show is just DRAMA for the sake of it and if you think I'm stupid for saying that because it is an 'end of the world' scenario where the human race could go extinct then fine but I just don't care....

So there you have it; my overall lame as hell reason why I don't find Parasyte absolutely amazing. If you read this far down then thanks because I'm sure I pissed most of you guys off with my rambling. But in my defense, everyone's opinions are their own; and just because I don't like it doesn't mean I don't think anyone else should. If you haven't watched this show yet then I would actually recommend you ignore what I have said and watch it for yourself; because THAT is what determines success in any anime, manga, etc.

Feel free to comment on my profile what you think of Parasyte and my review; whether you agree or disagree I always enjoy constructive criticism and I hope you will look forward to and read my future reviews!

So back in January of this year, Noragami was one series I was really looking forward to. Sadly I only got to watch the first few episodes before having to turn off my internet and prepare for moving; and even after said move I only got around to watching it recently. Now since this series is adapted by a monthly manga series, I decided to read the manga portion that was covered in this anime and give my thoughts on it then. I honestly don't like comparing two forms of a series side by side, because I do believe that each one is a different ... experience for the reader/viewer, but it is really just a force of habit by now I think.

The story for this anime can be split into 3 parts (4 if you count the ova); the first part focuses on the first few episodes, introducing the main characters Yato, Hiyori, Yukine and the a few of the supporting cast to make reoccurring appearances throughout. The second part, personally I feel being the strongest of the series, focuses on Yato and Yukine's relationship, hints at their individual pasts and ultimately solidifies the bond between them and Hiyori. And the third part being an original ending not pertaining to the manga itself but once again drives home the message of keeping those you care about close and always thinking of their best interest. Unfortunately, the fact that this is only a 12 episode series means that a lot of loose ends aren't dealt with and left up in the air; the whole explanation of Yato's past and Yukine's death, the state of Hiyori's body and a few other things that I won't mention for spoiler reasons. The story does however accomplish making you love the relationship between the three protagonists which is still pretty good I would say.

Probably the biggest draw for ANYONE to this series would be the animation and music! The characters move and act very fluid and the scenery and action sequences are just eye-candy galore. The OP, ED and OST are all great to listen to and set the mood of each episode almost perfectly. The show also has a TON of well known voice actors; Kamiya Hiroshi, Yuuki Kaji, Jun Fukuyama and Miyuki Sawashiro just to name a few.

Adapting the characters from the original story is where I have mixed feelings. For starters I would say that they made Yato and Yukine both more likable compared to the how they are portrayed in the manga; Yato is just more funny and isn't trying too hard to be the 'strong, mysterious-type' while Yukine is shown to have more of a kinder side compared to just being a 'shitty brat' when first introduced in the manga. That said though my main problem comes from the lack of depth into characters pasts and what their goals and drive are. Again, this is the fault of only being 12 episode long so I can understand that, but I feel for anime only viewers who don't read manga could very easily be left feeling unsatisfied.

My final 'verdict' is, I REALLY like this series; Anime AND Manga together. Like I said before there are a few problems story wise and if someone wants the whole thing wrapped up nice and neat in only 12 episodes then that someone will be disappointed. But is someone just wants an interesting series with supernatural setting, funny and amusing characters, well animated action sequences and a potential interest in a new manga afterwards than I would recommend this one to you. These are just my thoughts and if anyone feels like giving any feed back feel free to comment on my profile; I would greatly appreciate it.

With the OVA, Hanamonogatari, just around the corner, I thought I would write a review about one of my favorite series! This is just my personal opinion of course, so please feel free to let me know if you feel the same way or completely disagree. I welcome all kinds of opinions, advice and criticism; for the sake of writing better reviews later down the road. Also I will try not to spoil anything for anybody who hasn't yet watched this series; but just in case POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT!!!

The story focuses one Koyomi Araragi, a senior in high school turned vampire and then MOSTLY returned ... to human. Koyomi learns his classmate, Hitagi Senjougahara, is suffering from a supernatural ailment as he was and thus offers to introduce her to the man who helped him. What follows is several story arcs where Koyomi interacts with a different girl (yes they are all female!) and works to help them solve their problems with 'apparitions'. This is the portion of the series that might bore people due to it seeming repetitive.

The main focus of the story is actually the characters interactions, for example Araragi constantly being at the mercy of Hitagi's sharp tongue. The conversations vary from serious and philosophical topics about life and society, to darker subjects about the conditions the characters face and even character building moments that can have one sympathizing or relating to them or just laughing your ass off at the jokes passed around! At times things may seem uneventful and that nothing is actually happening, but the ultimate end to each incident should be satisfying enough.

As for the characters themselves: HITAGI SENJOUGAHARA IS BOSS! Sorry, had to get it out of my system. But without a doubt the characters are the strongest point in this series; each one just has points about them that on one hand make them feel as if you can relate to them and on the other they have a real uniqueness as well. As I said above, Hitagi has been through terrible events that some people could understand; yet her personality is very strong and independent and occasionally crazy, but still lovable! Others include but aren't limited to Tsubasa Hanekawa who is the 'perfect' student yet seems to hide darker feelings underneath and the main character Araragi who wants to help people but occasionally must accept his own weaknesses and let others handle the difficult parts.

The animation and music in the series are both equally beautiful! The art and animation make the characters and scenery look incredible; like the school and playground designs. The music is always fitting when the mood requires it, the openings and ending songs are upbeat and soothing individually and the voice acting is always perfect for each character! It also brings a bit of fan service on the girls, so well... there you go guys!

I have watched this series twice now; the first being when it originally aired and the second was last summer and I gotta say that I was glued to by screen each time. Overall this is a very well done anime and while is isn't for everyone, it certainly does a good job at being unique. Definitely check it out if you are interested in a break from the norm and there are a few separate seasons and OVAs as well. Again I hope this review was useful to some and I hope to hear some feed back for my next review; so thank you and enjoy your day!

I have no previous knowledge of the Vocaloid videos, manga or novel adaptions of this story. I'm a fan of anime done by SHAFT, thus I chose to keep an eye on this series this season.

Story:6- Easily the weakest spot to this anime series. The story revolves around a group of teens with supernatural abilities relating to their eyes and how they come together to solve the mystery behind these powers; it just 2 days. The mystery behind the 'Heat Haze' is definitely something to peak a persons interest; however by 3/4 of the way through some things feel missing or 'skipped'. To be ... honest it felt like there was just way too much to cover in this short of a series as about 4-5 episodes take place in the past and not enough time was spent on the current timeline.

Art:9- Like I previously stated: I'm a fan of SHAFT. (Examples: Monogatari series and Negima?!) The designs of the characters and the environment were very colorful and mesmerizing and at times even dark and creepy; Which is what SHAFT does best. The only reason is isn't 10/10 is because there are a few points where the animation didn't quite flow too well. Plus the one opening in CG was a little weird to be honest.

Sound:8- The original source material is a series of Vocaloid music videos so obviously they would implement the songs into the series and even name each episode after one. All the different songs expressed different emotions perfect for their respective situations. They also related to each character through the lyrics and gave more depth to them.

Characters:7.5- I'm one who is more fond of a series characters than the overall story; Sorry. Throughout the span of 12 episode you see the low and high points of each member of the group. You see their dreams, fears and feelings towards themselves, the world and the people around them. However, some characters did get more focus than others which was a disappointment. Personally my favorite character was Kano; the way he seemed the most likely to have his own agenda but was really the one looking out for everyone from the start was a big surprise and made me appreciate him even more.

Enjoyment:6.75- In the beginning I looked forward to this series every Saturday and I though it was going great. But again, some things weren't adding up and I got a bad feeling that not a lot would be answered properly by the end. I still watched and enjoyed it for the most part; but by the last few episode my excitement had nearly withered away.

Overall:6.9- If anything I blame myself for putting this series so high on a pedestal right from the beginning; due to believing it could be the next Bakemonogatari. All in all it was a good experience and it shows how far anime is coming to even base one off of music videos. This is just one show that has it's 'goods' and 'bads'; and I believe only you can judge it for yourself so feel free to give it a try. I'm also hoping there could be an OVA that covers up some of the wholes so Fingers Crossed!

I'm writing this as a fan of the Persona 3 video game.

Persona 4 the Animation was very well done and this movie was equally good at both keeping true to the source and even expanding on it. The thing I liked was the development of Makoto; how he went from beyond aloof to truly appreciating the people around him and wanting to protect his teammates even to the point of getting seriously hurt as well.

I kind of wished that the fight scenes had been more action packed but they were still great. Unlike P4A though it did not include much involvement with Social Link ... characters aside from showing them every so often.

All in all I would say that; if you are a fan of the game, watch this movie because you won't be disappointing; and if you haven't played the game, GET ON IT!