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Dec 25, 2013
With guns blazing and knives flashing, Jormungand brings an almost unparallelled action packed adventure which fails to do anything but draw me deep into the story, craving for more. The story is centered around the exploits of the boy soldier Jonah, the ever charismatic Hekmatyar Koko and her bodyguards as they encounter and overcome countless challenges through the course of their business, selling weapons. Truly a fun filled and addictive gem. Do take note, this review is for S1 only.
[POTENTIAL SPOILERS BELOW: I have refrained from spoilers as much as possible. Read at your own risk.]
Story & Setting
As mentioned previously, the story follows the dangerous
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lifestyle which Koko Hekmatyar lives as she deals out weapons and other various less-than-legal sales across the globe. Naturally, such deals would end in at best, gunboat diplomacy, though more often than not, it simply leads to spectacular fight scenes, showcasing the spectacular amount of firepower available to a first class weapons dealer. The action is written in a spectacular fashion, creating an appeal that any action-junkie would not be able to pass up. Though it might seem rather shallow as a whole, the story does take measures to delve into the past of some of Koko's nine bodyguards, which not only diversifies the plot but also helps to link and provide closure to certain other parts of the story itself.
Though admittedly an action-focused plot isn't deep in any sense, it's written very wittily at parts, naturally with the main usage of this wit being in how they get out of the rather sticky situations which the group always seems to find themselves in. At other parts, it could be the complete opposite, simply providing an added WOW effect when they resort to brute force to solving their problems. Even though some, perhaps most, of this could be considered obnoxious usage of Deus Ex Machina, it still does create a certain air of excitement in anyone watching and needless to say, is simply irresistible in the fun it brings.
The setting of the story is not fixed, with almost every single mini-arc taking place in a different part of the world. This naturally introduces in countless minor characters who may or may not be related to the story in the second season. The writer however does take pains to ensure that the addition of some of these characters is not completely wasted and hence does create a well-written plot, despite it being an almost purely action story.
Animation
The animation is done very well, especially with regards to the countless fight scenes which take place and weapons which appear throughout the whole anime. The non-combat scenes are not animated to a spectacular level but yet, they are still done impressively enough. Not overwhelmingly strong but not subtle enough to be forgotten through all of the action, the backgrounds are done in an almost perfect balance with the various scenes. Naturally one would expect that in an action-type anime, the focus would be in the action scenes; And I was not let down at all in this aspect.
Sound
The sound is rather interesting in this particular anime. Not only does it have the regular type of background sound and music one would expect from this genre, but also incorporates several unique types of sound throughout the show. This would include the occasional classical piece of music as well as even songs done in languages other than English and Japanese. Don't get me wrong, this is a boon rather than a bane to the show, as it not only creates the perfect atmosphere for each scene but entices the audience further into the show. Though admittedly these various different types of music might not be as catchy and memorable as other dramatic tracks from other anime, the OP and ED both compensate more than enough for this, with the former being immensely addictive and the latter being a surprisingly gentle change from the general feel you'd get from the series.
Characters
Jormungand is one of the ambitious animes which attempt to take a big step into creating not one, not two, but eleven repeating characters who occur in every single episode, save for perhaps one or two, and put an almost equal amount of focus into all of them. Naturally though, the two main characters receive more attention than the others. Surprisingly enough, for this genre, the was a decent amount of development into a few of the characters, showing their past as well as their goals and personal feelings on various issues. The unmistakable theme of growth and development is present in Jonah as he learns from the others more about the world and slowly develops from an unstoppable killer into something else. In addition to this, the various characters' traits are also displayed in other subtle ways, which do actually bring about a more human feel to the characters, rather than making them seem like nothing but killing machines.
However, this anime does represent a rather slanted view on the actual situation. Taking the stand of "everyone is a good person deep down", the anime paints arms dealers into the best light possible. Though this could be considered to be rather biased and unreal from one school of thought, it presents a great opportunity to bring about a very interesting story from the darker side of society which we do not see often, except perhaps through fictional works such as this.
Overall
Being almost unparalleled in terms of crazy action and less-than-logical fight scenes, perhaps on par with Black Lagoon, but most importantly, tremendously fun, Jormungand is a definite gem in this era of action anime. A must watch for any action-junkie, and as a matter of fact even those who have never been a huge fan of the action genre, prepare to be blasted away by the sheer amount of fun this story shoots right at you.
[AFTERWORD: Thank you for taking time to read this review. Please do give any comments of which I could learn from and improve on for any reviews I might do in the future!]
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Dec 22, 2013
What constitutes true love? The answer is simple. Working towards understanding one another and growing closer to each other through the process. Hal is not your typical romance show, but instead, strays from the norm by bringing touching on the post-romance theme, which seems to be taboo in anime nowadays.
[POTENTIAL SPOILERS BELOW: I have refrained from spoilers as much as possible. Read at your own risk.]
Story & Setting
The setting of the story is slightly into the future, where robots and other more advanced electronics are common place. In a mere hour, HAL demonstrates the cycle of what was a regular relationship turned bad through the
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death of one of the two young love birds. The story centers around the main character, a robot who now takes on the face and role of Haru, as he tries to reach out to Kurumi, the latter whom has given up the will to live upon the passing of the original Haru. A touching story, astonishingly full of emotions despite its short length.
Animation
The animation is relatively detailed, creating beautiful environments and bringing out the various emotions belonging to each scene. In particular, water appears to be a main focus of the show with it being used in various ways throughout.
Sound
The background music acts as a great way to pull the audience deeper into the story, creating gripping scenes which do nothing but cause you to gasp in shock or smile along with the characters. The generally gentle music in addition fits very well with the theme of comfort and trying to regain the will to live.
Characters
In this short span of time, a great deal of focus has been successfully put into showing the relationship between the characters. Haru, the robot desperate to learn more about Kurumi to cheer her up and Kurumi, the grief stricken ex-girlfriend who wants nothing more than to go back to the time when she and Haru were together. I had expected the characters to be rather shallow due to the time constraints of the movie but was pleasantly surprised to find that this was not the case, but rather, the opposite of what the anime managed to convey.
Overall
I thoroughly enjoyed this movie as though rather short and could possibly be considered rushed, it still manages to very effectively make me feel along with the character and associate with their feelings. Though some things were left unexplained, in particular some parts from the start, it became apparent later on through self deduction as other truths were revealed throughout the anime.
Definitely a good watch and all in all, a rather spectacular piece of work.
[AFTERWORD: Thank you for taking time to read this review. Please do give any comments of which I could learn from and improve on for any reviews I might do in the future!]
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Dec 16, 2013
Set in an alternate Feudal Era Japan, Mushibugyou combines a unique mix of historical themes with comic relief to create a thoroughly enjoyable story. In this alternate world, humans are not the beings at the top of the food chain. Instead, that position is held by giant man eating insects. Being not only uplifting but enjoyable to watch, the show manages to captivate and hold its audience in thrall. Though admittedly not at spectacular as the other 2013 Spring releases, Mushibugyou is simply too fun to simply pass by.
[POTENTIAL SPOILERS BELOW: I have refrained from spoilers as much as possible. Read at your own risk.]
Story
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& Setting
The story revolves around the story of Tsukishima Jinbei and his friends as he joins the Mushibugyou, a group of shogun appointed specialists who combat and fight the insects to the best of their ability. Two major arcs are in the story, the first being in Edo and the second being in Kishuu. As expected from a Shounen Action anime, the greatest focus of the anime is the combat which in itself was done spectacularly, though the usage of Deux Ex Machina is plainly obvious at times. Though the story itself isn't spectacular, it certainly is not the bane of the anime, possessing a straight forward plot which is easy to follow and yet more unpredictable than expected.
When I first started watching this anime, I was captivated by the first few episodes and found myself unable to stop watching. Though the most of episodes did not end in cliffhangers or anything even close to that sort, I found myself craving for more after each and every episode. To top that off, both the action as well as the absolutely hilarious parts managed to very effectively uplift my spirits and help me enjoy my day even more. Though lacking any deep meaning in both plot and actions of characters, or perhaps due to that, Mushibugyou remains a definite must watch for anyone looking for a casual and most importantly, fun anime.
Animation
The animation is done very well through the anime. In particular, the action sequences are constructed artfully. Being a Shounen Action genre anime, I was anticipating fantastic action and fight scenes through the whole show. It did not disappoint. Each sequence put together with elaborate detail, almost as if it was a carefully choreographed dance. Though the other parts were also done very well however, there was no extra "WOW" effect to it. Impressive, but not to the point where the animation alone can blow one away. This could also be considered to be a good point to some though, as it as not overwhelming to the point where it would make you lose focus on what the anime intends to do.
Sound
As a whole, the sound effects are done very well through the anime, in particular during the action scenes. The sound effects set the scene very well while remaining only in the background and not overwhelming your senses. Aside from that though, there is no real change in the sound effects used, following a strict genre along the lines of hyping up the audience during the fights. All in all, music and sound was effectively used to a limited extent but managed to fulfill its task splendidly all the same.
Characters
The characters are the key to the anime aside from the action. Possessing some very unique characters in both character design and traits, the anime blends them together and mixes them up to create absolutely hilarious results. Putting the supporting characters aside, the main characters all have at least one recurring theme behind them which can be seen very clearly through the whole show. In particular, the running gags of certain individual characters or the interactions between several are particularly funny and enjoyable to watch.
Character design wise, it could hardly be more unique. With almost every single character possessing completely different traits and looking so different. Naturally, this would apply to all of the insect characters but the anime also managed to do this successfully with the main characters too. Creating a very interesting array of characters with even more unique personalities to them. However, one issue I do have with this is that some traits are not elaborated and leave slight questions in my mind. This also stems from the ultimately incomplete relationships which seemed to be headed in one direction but ultimately are not completed. Though even so, the effort put into designing and creating the characters can hardly be considered to be sloppy, but rather, was done just a few steps short of perfection.
Overall
To conclude, Mushibugyou adds a very interesting take to the Alternate History genre. Possessing a very unique, though straightforward, story and characters even more so, this anime is one which was extremely enjoyable to watch. A slightly obscure anime which for no reason what-so-ever should be ignored without trying it out. Once you taste the fun in it, you'll instantly find yourself craving for more!
[AFTERWORD: Thank you for taking time to read this review. Please do give any comments of which I could learn from and improve on for any reviews I might do in the future!]
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Dec 12, 2013
A gripping story of relationships, growth, revenge and redemption, Gankutsuou never fails to captivate and draw in an audience deeper into the story as secrets are unraveled, past uncovered and truth brought to light. Several key elements hold the story together, though one might be more apparent than the others, it soon becomes clear that all of them are key to connecting everything together. Though lacking flair, or rather due to the lack of it, Gankutsuou manages to channel a powerful story as well as the emotions behind the various characters actions to the viewers, creating what could truly be considered a masterpiece.
[POTENTIAL SPOILERS BELOW:
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I have refrained from spoilers as much as possible. Read at your own risk.]
Story & Setting
An adaptation of the French Novel "Le Comte de Monte-Cristo", Gankutsuou is set in the distant future in the year 5053, primarily in the City of Paris. The story centers around the life of Viscount Albert de Morcerf and his friends as he meets and befriends the Count of Monte Cristo. There is a clear theme of growth, maturity and change in all the characters as their lives are slowly but surely affected by both the Count as well as each other. Though unbeknown to them however, the Count has other plans than simply befriending them and on the other hand, has started his grand plan of what could be considered, the ultimate revenge. The depth behind this revenge however is too deep to be said with words and as such I will simply move.
To describe the story in one word, that word would be spectacular. The story captivated me to the point that it left me utterly breathless at times, full of rage and hate at times but yet at other times, filled me with an almost overwhelming urge to tear up. I had started watching Gankutsuou with high expectations and after completing it, I fear my words do not do it justice. The sheer intricacy in the plot in not only creating a believable story but one full of emotions is just breathtaking. The emotions and feelings which the characters go through, though admittedly might not be that which we face on a day to day basis, are not only believable but experience-able. The shock, rage, anger, happiness, sadness, regret of the characters is so clear that it almost feels that the same emotions were flowing through me as my eyes were fixed upon on my screen. The whole story connects itself beautifully with the characters, relationships which once seemed crystal clear are actually clouded and full of deceit. Lies abundant and truth veiled, it almost makes you start to question your own life which you live.
On the part of the viewer, not only are emotions channeled clearly to the viewer but in addition to that, many things are kept hidden until much later in the story. Naturally, hints are given as well as succinct but yet not complete explanations about anything happening through the anime leaving you gasping for more. As the truth behind things is unraveled later through Gankutsuou, everything starts to join and connect together, almost like puzzle pieces combining to form a complete and glorious picture. Jam packed with suspense and unpredictability, such a captivating story is one which definitely should not be passed by.
Animation
The animation is one of the unique types in anime and stands out sharply from the norm. Simply overwhelming at times but yet frustratingly simple at others, it however does manage to very effectively help the story move along. Not that I'm criticizing the animation. While it might take some getting used to, due to the sheer difference between normal anime-type animation and what is seen in Gankutsuou, once you get used to it, you never cease to be in awe of the fantastic scenes it creates. There are also some hidden meanings in the animation itself as well as being very effective in generating emotions in the various scenes. As mentioned earlier, the sheer contrast between the simple at times but overwhelming at others allows the story to create two extremes of emotions in the viewers. While at first glance it might seem less than appealing, don't discount the story simply because it strays from what you might be used to.
Sound
Though definitely fitting and in line with how the story moves, the music was hardly what captivated my attention. As a matter of fact, the music was far overshadowed by the sheer pressure of the plot. I found myself hardly noticing it at all, which in fact does help to intrigue viewers even further. By having music and sound which does not overwhelm but instead, serves the purpose of setting the scene and provoking thought, what might have been seen as an oversight is in fact a key to drawing viewers deeper into the story.
Characters
As relationships is one of the key themes in the anime, naturally this is one of the major focuses throughout the whole story. Both the obvious as well as the less obvious relationships are developed, all to a certain degree. The relationship between the Count and Albert de Morcerf is one of the big focuses as Albert changes radically throughout the whole series as this progresses. The Count too is further exposed to the rest of the community Albert surrounds himself with, through both Albert's introductions and also through his own efforts. There is clear development in both the relationships as well as the individual characters as they are affected by those around themselves. Motivations for actions are shown clearly though at times it can be rather shocking even if believable.
Emotional turmoil is very obvious at parts and in-spite of that, the anime manages to draw you further into the characters so that you not only feel for them but also feel with them. While some might seem shallow originally, the sheer depth of change which they go through by learning about and from those around them is just breathtaking. There is no doubt that a great deal of effort was put into their creation.
Overall
The truth is rarely pure and never simple. Death is certain, it's hour uncertain. This anime is one too good to be passed by. Though it could be considered shallow at first glance, in reality, Gankutsuou is a layered masterpiece, one which pays close attention to detail, delves deep into both characters and story and yet manages to do all this without creating even a single moment of boredom. Truly a great piece of work and most definitely deserving of the awards it has won.
[AFTERWORD: As this is my first review, please do give any comments of which I could learn from and improve on for any reviews I might do in the future!]
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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