If there have been any worries about the future of the idol genre, Love Live 2 has dispelled them.
It's hard to deny that the first season of Love Live began with a rocky start. There wasn't much to set itself apart from other idol shows (especially with the likes of Idolmaster and Aikatsu dominating the genre) and it fell prone to melodrama far more than it should have. But, much like K-ON's mediocre first season and excellent second season, Love Live 2 has managed to do more than improve upon its predecessor - it has genuinely become an amazing anime.
I won't lie, I
...
was no fan of the franchise when the TV series made its debut in early 2013. I dropped it after the first episode aired and wondered later on what people saw in the series. But now having finished the second season, Love Live has become one of my favourite anime franchises.
Certainly it is not an anime that will test the mind or change anyone's life. It is simply a story of nine teenage girls forming an idol group together. However, it would be an insult to describe Love Live as yet another "cute girls doing cute things" anime, as it is a far more meaningful experience. The drama feels genuine this time around, and by the end it is hard to prevent the tears from rolling when the story of μ's reaches its end.
From the very first episode of the second season, it is clear that Sunrise has made a significant effort to improve the series. It looks better, sounds better, feels better and is far more fun to watch. Most importantly, the girls of μ's all feel like genuine characters now. Honoka's passion makes her truly seem like the leader and centre of the group, whereas the first season didn't have much reason beyond "well, somebody had to be the leader, right?" Even the characters who were given little to no screen-time in the first season (Rin, Eli, Nozomi and Hanayo) are fleshed and given their own episode to shine. It is finally a story about the nine of them.
Considering there have only been twenty-six episodes to develop a cast of nine characters, Sunrise has done a commendable job of doing so without neglecting the story in return. Perhaps the characters could have benefited from another season of episodes, but they hardly feel lacking by the end. The addition of a rival idol group (A-RISE) also makes the story feel less insular. It is no longer confined to the school itself, and with the school's closure no longer being an issue, the girls can finally focus on performing as idols do.
Nico is easily one of the show's greatest assets. Sure, her "nico nico-nii" catchphrase is cute and all (I go a little bit crazy whenever she utters it), but Nico's presence accomplishes far more than simply being a vehicle for the cute. Of all the character-focused episodes, Nico's is the greatest. It shows that she really, truly cares about the group and is not simply in it for pride and ego. The idol industry is Nico's life, the act of being an idol her most treasured dream. She cares deeply for her siblings and performs primarily to make them smile. She's a kind person inside- contrary to her rough behaviour with the rest of μ's. Perhaps that behaviour may make her somewhat unsuitable for the role of an idol, but she's more serious about it than anyone else. Nico may not be idealised as idols usually are, but that flawed, genuinely human side of her makes her makes her all the more loveable, I think. Even if she does not resonate with you as a character, it's hard to deny that she at least provides an interesting contrast with the rest of μ's. It would not be anywhere near as interesting without her.
The story peaks in the last four episodes. With the graduation of the third-years quickly drawing closer, a tear-filled goodbye seems inevitable. It is very similar to the final episodes of K-ON's second season. With the prospect of Nico leaving and μ's potentially being disbanded after graduation, I could not help but feel my chest tighten a bit. And then the final episode really drove those feelings home. Perhaps they'll join together once again and find careers as professional idols. I doubt it is the end for Nico, Eli and Honoka.
Like most idol anime, Love Live has a fantastic soundtrack. All the songs the girls perform carry their own theme and message, and none of them (aside from the opening and ending) are used more than once in the anime. Each song represents a new stage for μ's, another step forward as performers and as people. The music peaks with the performance of "Snow Halation" in the ninth episode, a rising, sad yet uplifting piece that showcases the appeal of μ's. It is probably one of the best vocal tracks I have heard in an anime to date. There is also a really cool scene at the end of the 12th episode that I won't spoil. Everything with the music sorts of 'clicks' in that moment.
It should be noted though that the ninth episode does blunder a bit with its choice of music. As the second-years traverse through a snowstorm, there is an incredibly melodramatic, orchestral piece blasting in the background that would feel more appropriate were demons from hell rising up and setting Earth on fire or something. The second season has improved so much that it is frustrating to see it regress to the first season's melodrama, even for just a brief moment.
As for the visuals, Love Live looks well above average. The CGI during the performances can be a little bit distracting (and I know some people despise CGI of any form) but between that and low frame-rate, off-model animation, I would gladly take the CGI. It certainly looks better than Aikatsu's CGI, anyway. The rest of the visuals on the other hand holds up reasonably well. There are scenes here and there where lazy, static shots are used for longer than necessary, and while it certainly is no Attack on Titan, Love Live looks just fine.
Love Live has come a long way from its slow beginnings. While it will hardly convert anyone who detests the 'moe' art style, those who have even the slightest inkling of interest in the series will likely find the second season to be at the very top of the idol (and perhaps even music) genre. An anime can be both cute and a genuinely great story, as is demonstrated here.
Now, where's my Nico spin-off?
Alternative Titles
Japanese: ラブライブ! School idol project 2期
More titlesInformation
Type:
TV
Episodes:
13
Status:
Finished Airing
Aired:
Apr 6, 2014 to Jun 29, 2014
Premiered:
Spring 2014
Broadcast:
Sundays at 22:30 (JST)
Licensors:
NIS America, Inc.
Studios:
Sunrise
Source:
Other
Duration:
23 min. per ep.
Rating:
PG-13 - Teens 13 or older
Statistics
Ranked:
#10642
2
based on the top anime page. Please note that 'Not yet aired' and 'R18+' titles are excluded.
Popularity:
#935
Members:
259,333
Favorites:
2,754
Available AtResourcesStreaming Platforms | Reviews
Filtered Results: 40 / 42
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Your Feelings Categories Jul 1, 2014
If there have been any worries about the future of the idol genre, Love Live 2 has dispelled them.
It's hard to deny that the first season of Love Live began with a rocky start. There wasn't much to set itself apart from other idol shows (especially with the likes of Idolmaster and Aikatsu dominating the genre) and it fell prone to melodrama far more than it should have. But, much like K-ON's mediocre first season and excellent second season, Love Live 2 has managed to do more than improve upon its predecessor - it has genuinely become an amazing anime. I won't lie, I ... Jun 22, 2014
After finishing 1st Season of Love Live: School Idol Project, I must say, Season 2 sure stepped up it's game. I enjoyed Season 1 a lot too, but Season 2 has just been something else for me.
For those of you who don't know, Love Live: School Idol Project is based off of a real live idol group called Nine Muses. They all go by different names in the anime itself, but it's a pretty neat concept. Their goal in Season 1 is to keep the school from shutting down by forming an idol group. In Season 2, their goal is to make the Love Live, and ... Jun 30, 2014
When Love Live! School Idol Project first aired in Japan, it became a hit sensation, captivating the hearts of many. The show was surprisingly good, with an enjoyable cast, entertaining songs, and a solid story. It was a massive success, and with its popularity came a second season. This might make some people feel anxious, thinking this to be a sell out for more money, but their worries can be put to ease; regardless of its intentions, I believe this second season to be even greater than the first time around.
Spoilers for the first season to follow. Love Live! School Idol Project Second Season follows μ’s ... Oct 12, 2014
Love Live! School Idol Project 2nd Season
Love Live! have a simple story, it tells us about 9 girls that competing in a School Idol Competition. Well, if we look deeply to the main idea of the story, Love Live does not have an originality. Although not having an originality, the story is full of excitement, the plot have a great balance between the main story and the fillers. As for the art, we have a clear and beautiful animation, despite having a CG during dancing and stage performing, Love Live! have a well-produced animation. What can I say about the sound? Is wonderful in my ... Apr 19, 2015
Love Live! School Idol Project Season 2 -
Recommend of read a review or watch season 1 before reading this. Love Live! is a Comedy, Idol anime co-created by music label Lantis and animation studio Sunrise, with it's second season was release in April of 2014. It continues from the end of season 1 (Which i also reviewed), where Honoka Kōsaka and her friends in the school idol group μ's (Muse) tries to enter the second Love live, a school idol tournament that has changed because of success of the first one, has become national wide as idol groups from around Japan compete to be the ... Dec 21, 2015
Success stories have always had a spirit that the Academy and many others have deemed inextinguishable. The soul and passion of the fight to victory has always had an undeniable effect on us humans, who have always had the hidden spirit of desire; the very desire to go the extra mile and make it to the top. And it is in these stories where we see this undeniable burning human passion. We see it in Daniel's eyes in his final match in the Karate Kid. We see it in Rocky, prepared to fight Apollo Creed with everything he has. We see it in Drumline, as
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Jan 6, 2016
Review contains some spoilers:
Let me start out by saying that this will be a review of both seasons of Love Live: School Idol Project. There is almost no reason to separate the two seeing as Season 2 is a direct continuation. After being recommended this anime by a plethora of friends and already being a fan of slice of life shows such as K-On I decided to give Love Live a shot. It far exceeded my expectations in every way possible. While I enjoyed the most of the first season more than the second season, it still had a huge impact on me by the ending. ... Oct 11, 2015
Ok,so I have done watching LL S2 and I have two words: truly amazing. In terms of school idol, if anyone want's a recommendation, I'm totally recommend Love Live. Amazing,satisfying, the feels, and many more are there in LL.
The anime continue from the first season which is after they save their school from closing. After they know that Love Live tournament will begin, they set their new goal which is to enter and win the tournament since they withdraw from previous LL. I would say, LL S2 really make an impact in terms of story. The balance between story and other character backstory is impaccable ... May 22, 2015
Love Live School Idol Project is not meant for me. Reviewing a show this girly and happy is pretty much impossible based on my age, sex, and what I enjoy watching. The reason I don’t review Pretty Cure? I’m not a ten year old girl. The reason I review Love Live? Despite obviously being a show for ten year old girls it’s got a raging male fanbase that’s about my age.
A year ago I wrote a review for the first season that I feel, now, complains about all the wrong things. It doesn’t at all hit the nail on the head for how to approach ... Jun 12, 2020
Love Live! School Idol Project is a slice of life musical anime, about nine high school girls joining together in a hit new craze, becoming school idols! Eventually they will compete with many other schools nationwide in Love Live, to see which idol group is the best of them all. It's not all for fun though, for the main goal of competing in Love Live for out girls is to become popular enough to get more registered students for the school or have the school be closed down next year.
Love Live! School Idol Project's nine girls are all lovable in their own way, and of ... Jun 29, 2014
Story: 8/10
Love Live season 2 has a great story following the first season. I only have two problems with the story. Firstly, getting into season two seems contrived as a second love live festival just happens to be held so Muse can participate. I don’t mind because we got a second season, but it still seemed forced. Secondly, I hated the Halloween episode as it was an excuse for fanservice and the insert song wasn’t very good. Characters: 10/10 This shows best points are the characters. Each character is well fleshed out and well rounded. Every major character gets screen time and a chance to develop. None ... Aug 28, 2020
The second part of Love Live explores the developments µ's as they continue to grow and mature after the aftermath of the first Love Live competition and their rebounding. After quickly getting hooked on by their songs and the hilarious antics that goes on within µ's, I was delighted to find the second season one-upping its prequel and going above and beyond with µ's performances in the second Love Live tournament.
Story Compared to last season, the story is way better, although its the same premise, the group entered in smarter and wiser. Something this season did do differently from its prequel was focus more on ... Apr 9, 2018
Finished the first season of the series, now Love Live! 2 continues the members of μ's journey to stardom.
Story: Otonikizaka High School is saved thanks to the heroic efforts of μ's although they weren't able to win the first Love Live! competition because Honoka Kousaka, their leader, suffers a game-breaking injury because she got sick after performing "No Brand Girls". However, the fight for the competition is not yet over because there is another Love Live! competition to participate and it is more challenging than ever. Now, the all nine members are reunited once again to sing their hearts out and win the competition. There ... Jun 29, 2014
Wow, Love Live!: School Idol Project Season 2. It is like the best anime in the entire planet to watch. I could of written a review for the ova and season 1 but i didn't find out about this feature on this website. So anyway, onto my review of this shall we? This season has been an emotional roller coaster since there was a lot of sad feels into this season, not as much as the first season but i gotta say that the relationship grew so much for the members of µ's ever since the first season. These two seasons of love live were
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Oct 9, 2015
This review will go for both the first and second season, it seems kind of pointless to review them separately. Honestly I don't even know where to begin with this anime outside of the word spectacular. I realize I am slightly behind the curve but it must have slipped through the cracks for me when it aired. Regardless, this anime was absolutely incredible.
Story - 9: My only gripe with the story is the ending of the first season. No spoilers but it was the weakest area of the anime and the only reason I cannot award it a perfect 10. As much as I ... Nov 26, 2018
STORY - 9
ART - 9 SOUND - 10 CHARACTER - 9 ENJOYMENT - 9 Honestly, it's not easy to concisely describe just how vivid the second season of School Idol Project is. A beautiful outburst of the soul. A melodic magic that lifts the heart. A lyrical expression full of emotions. These words are close enough to express how I feel but really, it's better if you listen to µ's ("Muse") once more. Because as the saying goes: "Where words fail, music speaks." Every journey will always have a start and an end; and within it, there will always be a story. The story of µ's began as a school-saving solution, ... Sep 16, 2015
Not too long ago I looked at Love Live. The anime portion of a multi-media project. It was an enjoyable series. The first series introduced us to µ's (pronounced Muse.) µ's formed with three members in order to gain interest in their school to prevent it shutting down. We saw the original three gradually grow into nine. We saw the nine girls coming together as friends & comrades, doing live shows and getting really, really, really homo-erotic with one another. So, our heroines managed to save their school in the end. Where are they going to go from there?
Story: We open with Honoka giving a speech ... Mar 12, 2015
Singing in front of people isn’t easy. Just picture yourself in front of an audience or in an arena of over 10,000 people looking at you and perhaps almost always judging you on your performance. It’s both a thrilling and nerve wrecking experience, especially for idols. But for Muse, this is exactly what they are aiming for – to perform and captivate the audience with their talent in the art of singing. Love Live School Idol Project returns for a second season starring Muse members are they find their way with music.
μ's (pronounced as Muse), makes its anticipated return with all its members back. One ... Nov 17, 2017
Ambition – the driving force of a goal.
There’s no doubt that season 1 of Love Live is a truly weak series. There was a lack of detail to characterization; the flow of the plot was all over the place: Shoving cute girls and memes down your throat and then ending on some of the worst melodrama present in anime at the end. It would be easy to pass off the second season as equally irresponsible as the first; but oddly enough the second season of Love Live works wonders. This improvement in quality it ascends Love Live from being a trashy meme-fest into something of ... Jul 16, 2014
Yeah, it's a kind of late review but whatever and english isn't my Main language so im sorry if the vocabulary is not correct.
First of all, The first season, The first season wasn't really that great It was Average/Mediocre for me. Mostly because at that time there were other school Idols anime which dominated the genre of School idol. But Love live school idol project 2nd season was better and has improved in many ways than it predecessor, which is a good point. It's basically just an anime about school girls which want to become a School idol group the μ's and want to perform at Love ... |