Mar 3, 2019
If I could describe this anime in one word, it would be "interesting".
I have not read the Boogiepop LNs, so keep that in mind as you read my review.
Also also, the score on MAL basically drove me to write this review.
First of all, since you've seen the score that I've given Boogiepop, you must already know that I like this anime. I like it quite a bit actually. So, naturally, the burning question in your mind probably goes something like "Should I watch this anime?". The answer is actually not that simple. But I'll try to simplify.
Let's say there are two very different people who
...
watch anime. We'll call these two people 'A' and 'B'.
A doesn't like being confused when watching an anime. A wants to have control of the anime and wants to know what's going on at all times. A's confusion actually frustrates him and he may drop the anime if it gets too confusing. Most importantly, A does not have the patience to continue watching something unless he fully understands everything (even if the details are revealed in later episodes). To sum up, A wants a linear story with linear progression. A will not fill in the details by himself.
B is okay being confused when watching an anime. B allows the anime to give him the experience and watches as it unfolds. B does not get frustrated when new questions arise and instead, allows his curiosity explore possible answers. Most importantly, B has the patience to watch a story unfold in over time and is willing to put it together himself.
From the way that I've generalized these two viewers, you probably already understand which type of person is going to enjoy this anime. That's right, this is not an anime for A. B is the only type of person who would enjoy this anime. A might be able to enjoy it, when it is completed since he won't have to wait for new episodes. However that chance is slim given the structure of the story in general. Boogiepop does not tell you a coherent story in the same way that most anime does. Instead, it presents different arcs with different characters that initially seem to have no connection to one another, but over time demonstrates how they tie in to the larger narrative.The one thing in common between all story arcs however, is Boogiepop. You might not know who Boogiepop is right now, but considering you've stayed this long into the review, I am going to assume you will find out soon.
Now what about the rest? How is the animation? How is the character design? How is the soundtrack? Well to put simply, the animation is alright. For the story it tells, it suffices. The character design is just about decent as well. If you are not an experienced anime watcher, you will probably have trouble recognizing some of the faces that are supposed to be familiar, but it isn't a deal-breaker. The sound however is somewhat exceptional. It uses experimental tones and often paints a scene in a new light just by itself. I personally believe the opening is quite good. As for the ending, It's simply the best ED I've heard in a while. If you absolutely hate the story and you treat the anime itself as a filler for the opening and ending, there is actually a chance that you may find it enjoyable.
Some other stuff to keep in mind is the importance of the source material. The Boogiepop LNs have been very influential, and their impact can be seen in many popular works today (ex: Monogatari Series). Basically, watching Boogiepop being adapted as a modern anime is an event to watch just by itself.
I've already said a lot so, I'll be brief. If you've stuck around for this long in the review, go watch Boogiepop.(Like all the episodes out right now) If you skipped to the end of this review, without reading the whole thing, I recommend you go back and read what I have to say. Happy Watching!
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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