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Dec 29, 2022

Shaonian Ge Xing (Anime) add

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Have you ever drove towards a mountain range only to discover that the individuals peaks are actually distinct mountains, separated by large distances? And that you were awestruck by the grandeur of the farthest, towering peak as you approach the nearer mountains? Shaonain ge xing is one such multi-faceted, layered story that got more fascinating as the plot unfolded.

Shaonian Ge Xing (SGX) is a webnovel by Zhou Mu Nan. The anime actually follows the chapters of the novel rather closely (almost 1 ep = 1 chapter). Strictly speaking, SGX is a prologue of sorts. The story centers on Wu Xin and has a coherent ... plot with a satisfying end. The central mystery that drive the plot and character development is well paced in its execution and reveal. But as the story progresses, another more intriguing tale is layered upon the main story, thrusting Xiao Se into the spotlight and expanding the narrative much more.

The world-building is rich. The pugilist world is vibrantly set up with myriad sects, sword deities and distinct power levels that sounds awesome (for example 逍遥天境 – it was translated as “unrestrained sky realm” but it honestly doesn’t capture its true poetic essence). The political/court intrigues hum in the background and occasionally rears its head to intersect violently with the pugilist world, deepening drama and mystery.

Character-wise, the development is rather uneven. Of the 4 main characters, Tang Lian's character development is the weakest followed by Lei Wu Jie. Since this anime is a Wu Xin tale and the novel is a Xiao Se story, the latter 2 get great character arcs. However, I do have a criticism on Sikong Qianluo. She does not actually appear so early in the novel. I suspect to prevent the show from descending into a sausage-fest, Sikong Qianluo was forcibly introduced early. The 2 underlings that she eventually acquired in the show was a low point in the anime since their attempt at humor was crass and not remotely funny (My only true gripe of the show).

On production values, for a 3D Chinese animation in 2018, SGX stood out for me in terms of their facial rendering. The characters are expressive and complement their layered dialogue perfectly. The fights are visually appealing though nothing to write home about. There were a few scenes that stood out cinematographically for me – watch out for Xiao Se when he steps out of this inn in episode one. Revisit it after you learn his backstory and the scene will hit differently. The mark of a good show is rediscovering added dimensions in scenes, dialogues upon repeat viewings and SGX attest to that.

In closing, Shaonian Ge Xing is a well-crafted wuxia story that gives a glimpse of further greatness (and yes Season 2 is already complete). The rich details in storytelling and dialogue thus demand high quality translation to capture the nuances and intricacies of the tale. Highly recommended but only if you find a well translated source.

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May 4, 2013

Koi to Senkyo to Chocolate (Anime) add

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Harem adaptations are inherently difficult endeavours. Especially when one needs to squeeze 4-5 haremettes into 13 episodes while managing a coherent plot. To get around the limited airtime, many series either focus on the individual haremette's tale making the show an character omnibus of sorts with a weak or non-existent central plot; or drive the story with the key conflict in the harem but in so, sacrificing much of the remaining cast. Both routes resulted in their share of rotting carcasses littered in the memory of harem history. Which was why I was so delighted to have stumbled upon KoiChoco.

The premise of KoiChoco is, unsurprisingly, ...

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Jul 21, 2008

D.C.: Da Capo (Anime) add

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Da Capo is not for everyone. Especially anti-bishoujo vigilantes who'd surely find plenty of flaws to reinforce their misconceptions of a very very misunderstood class of anime. However, for those who are willing to look beyond its sub-tag of 'harem' and ‘eroge’ (adult games), you might just find an anime gem that few in the genre can outsparkle.

Story - 8

Da Capo has a very interesting premise and is a surprisingly coherent story. It achieves this in 2 ways. First, by never forgetting the thrust of the series. It could be an episode featuring one of the numerous side characters or typical high school hijinks ... yet it never fails to leverage on these situations to further develop the central plot or characters. Grafting the various characters' stories onto the overarching theme is the 2nd avenue by which the series remains relevant despite its seemingly meandering series composition. Although I have to say the the first 15 eps could have been a lot tighter which accounts for the mildly-diminished score of 8 for this segment. Nevertheless, the series more than makes up for it with tightly-knitted and well paced 2nd half (ep 16 onwards).

Art - 9

For a 2003 production, the animation quality was nothing to write home about. The definition of art here extends beyond mere portrayal of visuals that the eyes can capture but sight that can touch the human heart. Da Capo clinches a 9 for this category because of its excellent art direction (which frankly is probably lost on most anime viewers.) Artistic scene transitions, panning shots that accentuate the mood of the scene etc are just some of the reasons why I believe Da Capo to have one of the finest cinematography in the genre.

Sound - 9

Da Capo soundtrack is undoubtedly the best of the genre. Not only are the pieces beautiful standalone musical compositions, their effect is greatly magnified in the various poignant scenes when employed skillfully under the anointed direction of the Da Capo crew, making its musical component one of the most memorable aspect of the production.

Character - 8

Da Capo has an endearing cast which sadly was not fully developed, at least for many of the fabulous side-haremettes. Again the series more than makes up for it with its wonderfully fleshed out leads. By digging deep into their psyche, motivations and struggles, one cannot help but empathize strongly with these girls binded by chains of cruel love. Few harem series does 'love' and even fewer do it with the depth and maturity of Da Capo

Enjoyment - 10

Well-crafted characters, poignant drama, impeccable music and an artistic flair to meld all these ingredients into a solid production is the reason why I enjoyed the series to. the. fullest.

Give DC a shot if you are not adverse to the much maligned bishoujo genre. Recommended only if you have an open mind, loves good drama, coherent plots and consistent characters.

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