Aria the Natural

The problem with sequels is that they're rarely as good as the original, any show that actually achieves the feat of surpassing the original appears only once in a blue moon. Given that fact, I will freely admit that I approached Aria: the Natural with a certain degree of trepidation, especially as the original series is a favourite of mine.

Thankfully, all of my fears were removed in the gentlest manner possible.

Aria: the Natural continues the tale of Neo Venezia in very much the same manner as the original, except for the fact that this series is twice as long. The story, once more, revolves around ... Akari, Aika and Alice as they go through their daily lives in their "quest" to become undines. The episodic format of the original series is maintained throughout this one, and the show generally manages to achieve the same relaxed feeling of the original. However, Aria: The Natural has some moments that purists would define as "off-kilter" - a view I tend to disagree with.

Let me explain. The first series was very much an introductory show, allowing the audience to familiarise themselves with Akari, Aika and Alice, as well as the other residents of Neo Venezia. The Natural, on the other hand, is an introduction to the world of Aqua itself, something which was alluded to in the final episode of the first series. Indeed, the role of cats in this series is much greater than before, and the quasi-supernatural element of the show, which was only lightly touched upon previously, is very much in force here.

Because of this though, many people view The Natural as inferior to the original series, basing such judgement solely on the fact that this show has some genuinely creepy moments, as well as the fact that several episodes are based purely on supernatural events. In Aria: The Animation, the effect of the supernatural was toned down to maintain the relaxed feeling of the show, however The Natural pushes this aspect of Aqua firmly to the fore with the introduction of several elements - Cait Sith being the primary one.

Art and animation for The Natural remains as superlative as the original, with some improvement given to some of the more "fantastic" plot elements. Character designs remain unchanged though (which will come as a relief to many fans), with each of the leads and the supporting roles being as visually charming as ever - even in Super Deformed mode. The panoramic views of the Neo Venezia remain very much in force, however these have been enhanced more because of the attention given to other areas of Aqua. The level of detail is actually better in The Natural because of the show's focus on the world of Aqua, and with that attention to detail comes a degree of personality (yes, I know it sounds weird saying that a world has personality - watch the show and see for yourself).

Sound and music continue to be excellent, with the voice actors doing sterling work with their respective characters. The thematic music used throughout the series is very much in keeping with the style of the original series, and retains the same "continental" feeling as well. The sound effects are again, excellent and well choreographed, with nothing too overwhelming or too subtle. The OP and ED are calm and melodic, keeping the fluidly relaxed theme of both the original and this series.

The characters are, again, a joy to watch, however some people may not follow this train of thought because of the supposed "flaws" in the show (i.e. the supernatural elements I mentioned earlier). Akari, Aika and Alice continue to be as charming and as innocent as ever, and while there may be a distinct lack of major development in this series, I didn't find this factor to hinder my appreciation of the characters in any way.

The supporting characters continue to be by turns witty, soothing, stern, downright hilarious, etc, very much in keeping with the original series. However, many of the supporting cast tend to take more of a back seat in this series, with a greater amount of focus being given to Akari especially.

Fans of the original series may not find that The Natural sits too well with them, especially given the fact that this show is less about the characters and more about the world they live in. That said, it continues to be a truly enjoyable series overall, and a truly relaxing one at that.

Aria: The Natural, whilst maintaining everything that made the original series great, is actually a very different show, and I would judge it at least equal to The Animation in every aspect. Given the basis of The Natural, and its intorductory perspective on the world of Aqua, it's no surprise that fans recommend watching both series before watching Aria: The Origination.

This is the first time that I have ever felt an anime deserves full marks in all categories. Aria the Natural had everything I could want in an anime. Here\'s the breakdown...

Story: The reason why the plot is so good is that each episode has a unique story and it never gets tiring despite not having a running story. Neo-Venezia is a place meant to be explored and that is what we get thorugh the series as Akari and Co. meat new people and grow. Watching something like this is relaxig and just puts a smile on your face.

Animation: The world of Aria is absolutely ... beautiful. The town of Neo-Venezia is presented in such detail that it makes me wish that I was there. And the sceneries are a sight to see and in an anime like Aria, we get to see them in many aspects, whether it is in the morning, evening, night etc. The only thing i wish for is a HD version of Aria, but still gets full marks none the less.

Sound: OP, ED, BGM, it\'s absolutely incredible. The music fits in so well and is something that just relaxes you. Words alone cant describe how much i love this kind of music. It\'s pure bliss~

Character: This is perhaps the best aspect of Aria. Each character is not only unique but is extremely likable. There is a wide range of personalities yet they go so well together. And their chibi face form is hilarious. Each have there own style and goes well with their personality.

Overall, to me, not only is this the best slice of life, it is the best anime out there. It is just perfect. While this type of anime is not for everyone, Aria the Natural was everything i could ask for. Hopefully you can see the magic of Aria like I did if you ever check this out and become a fan too.

One expression: "Embodiment of relaxing happiness".

Welcome back to yet another season of Aria. Never heard of this anime before? To put it bluntly: this whole series marks the pinnacle of entrancing anime Slice of Life.

To follow the anime chronologically, please watch "Natural" only after you’ve finished "Animation", otherwise you might miss out on proper character and world introduction.

Note: Alongside the actual review you will come across some diary entries written by our protagonist Akari in her usual cheerful way. Let them accompany you during your personal gondola travel throughout Neo Venezia as you read this humble examination.


~~~~~
"Dear Diary, how have you been so ... far?
You grew quite big, but that's not bizarre,
since I experienced a WORLD last season.
You know, so many tourists have come here
to see Neo Venezia, it would appear
the colonization of Mars had a bountiful reason.

My own task hasn't changed during this time...
and it isn't only to make this rhyme!
I guide my gondola over the streams
of water flowing through this peaceful place
and relishing the friendly people, the slower pace.
This life is more natural than your dearest dreams."
~~~~~


"Natural" continues from where "Animation" has ended, and the premise appears as simple as ever: a bunch of cute girls rowing gondolas over the watery planet of Aqua (formerly known as Mars), experiencing countless everyday adventures. As one probably assumes: the plot stays calm and action-less, which may not appeal to everyone. Aria doesn't try to implement fast-paced scenes like all-in gondola races or natural catastrophes. Honestly though: this is by far the best possible outcome. So be prepared to indulge into pure relaxation...


~~~~~
"Ha-hi, I've become sleepy as of late -
what can I do against this moony state?
Maybe we've overdone the star-gazing a bit.
So today I let Alice and Aika do the rowing
and meanwhile watched the floating islands glowing
and dreamed of a yummy banana split.

Especially the three great Water Fairies
Akira, Athena and Alicia know what carries
our beloved Aqua below its top surface.
So even I learn about the deeper meaning of flowers,
or how to spend the most memorable hours.
Together we preserve the peace in grace."
~~~~~


Every remarkable anime needs an interesting and unforgettable cast of characters, and Aria definitely delivers. The plot focuses on three apprentice undines (undine is an equivalent of gondola tour guide) and their respective masters (widely known as the "Three Water Fairies"), belonging to three competing companies. Yes, although they're competitors on paper, you forget that this is Aria, so they train and even celebrate together, not letting any hostile thoughts build up during the entire show.

The tendency for names to begin with "A" is quite obvious, and one might think that this will result in challenges distinguishing them from one another. Fortunately, these difficulties are immediately scotched because of diversified traits all of these young women have, both in appearance and manner of speaking. One's for certain: You will never forget their key expressions and special faces, so what else would you need for characters to become memorable?


~~~~~
"Today reminded me of all my reliable friends:
Alicia as my mentor doesn't miss a time and lends
me her firm arm; oh this makes me so proud (:
The practises together with Aika and Alice
are by far the best method to maintain my inner peace.
"Embarrassing remarks aren't allowed!"... Ehhhhhhhhhhhhhh?

And then there's my companion for everywhere:
President Aria, the cuddly cat, takes utmost care
of me during my adventures, in every case.
Dear Ai-chan is mailing with me everyday.
That's important since the postman tends to say
that any letter can overcome time and space."
~~~~~


Concerning the other inhabitants of Neo Venezia, a special mention has to be given to the cats. Not only do they provide even more heart-warming moments by constantly being around as "presidents" of their respective company, but they also maintain certain traditions to add to the mystery aspect of the world.

Being Slice of Life, it's only natural for our undines to interact with all kinds of people during their daily work. Everyone tells their own story and fits perfectly into the whole setting. As soon as the viewer identifies themselves with the general mood, watching the characters is an utmost bliss. As trivial as some of the stories may seem, they all carry a deeper meaning, and overall, help to eternally carve the world of Aqua into one's memory.


~~~~~
"Gliding Canal Grande under Rialto Bridge today,
we met Akatsuki-san gathering roses for Boccolo day.
He wants to see Alicia go "ara ara" again.
Rumours say there's a woman in a black dress,
connected to San Michele Island more or less.
Yep, so much unfathomable wisdom there is to gain.

Have you ever heard of Redentore before?
The Wedding to the Sea or the golden oar?
Maybe I should ask wise Grandma about all of them.
Even the cats are keeping their traditions
with mystic Cait Sith improving their conditions.
Another detail in this as our world carved aquamarine gem."
~~~~~


Even if it's episodic, Aria's ability to tell profound and humane stories is virtually unmatched, especially concerning the Slice of Life genre. "Aria the Natural" succeeds both in surpassing its prequel through the sheer power of empathy and the preservation of its initial premise, yet always being special every episode.

Admittedly, the style of the story telling may appear boring to anyone not accustomed to this kind of anime. Watching more than two episodes per day is not recommended, otherwise it will really be too much/too less for the viewer to consume. Neo Venezia and Aqua are generally places that should be frequented in short visits instead of long ones in order to completely admire their wonderful beauty.


~~~~~
"In the morning we trained outside of town
inside some quaint landscapes of high renown;
you even could see Hope Hill from there.
Every minute we practise is to master the water
with its clear and calm nature, it's like a daughter
I need to console and for whom I must care.

Oh, this place's life is certainly unique.
Everyone's moving so smoothly I tend to speak
with them a lot about the city's style.
The buildings, while modestly tinted, stand
just short enough to see the sky so grand
and let us sense a light sea breeze awhile."
~~~~~


Natural’s art and animation unquestionably serve their purpose. The architecture of Neo Venezia with its detailed Italian touch and generally colourful drawing style make the town's visit aesthetically pleasing to the eyes. Being Aria, the overall manner of art isn't flashy but rather quaint, although special moments with spectacular light effects or noticeable water reflections aren't left out either.


~~~~~
"Today I couldn't concentrate myself too much
on discovering another unique Venezia touch.
It was because my ears were dancing...
dancing after hearing Athena-san's heavenly voice
and feeling Makino Yui on San Marco Square rejoice.
Music assists and quiets me down before advancing.

After noon we three indulged in delicious coffee
while bearing the sun looking like a giant toffee.
I hope the heat won't cause any illusion.
So we sat listening to some musicians
playing their plucked instruments under arduous conditions -
music-less this world would fall into seclusion."
~~~~~


Music-wise the general mood stays the same as in every other category: calm and relaxing, but always soulful. Smooth tones brought to our ears by plucked instruments with occasional mystical chants and lyrical insert songs.

One aspect in which "Aria the Natural" surpasses other anime is the everlasting vigour of the opening with its song "Euforia" performed by Yui Makino. I'm not exaggerating: This opening is the only one in all anime that I haven’t ever skipped; the impact is simply amazing.

The seiyuus perform their assigned roles splendidly, and because of the previously mentioned main characters' impressionable manner of speaking, they have a high chance of staying in the viewer’s mind.


~~~~~
"The evening is wrapped by red warm tones
which gently heal our hearts, our soul, our bones.
I lie down on bed and take off my glove -
this glove that isn't just protecting my hand,
but also reminding me I have to understand:
as Prima Undine I need more special traits I love.

As a child I wanted to be a fairy
flying around and make everyone merry;
I reached this goal, without caring for a penny.
All of these encounters here are the planet's bliss
so in the end I thank you all, and 'may this
town's kindness reach the hearts of many'."
~~~~~


A picture is worth a thousand words, as the old proverb says. If you're already familiar with the prequel "Animation", this sequel includes everything required to top your previous experience. To everyone who's new to Aria: This review is coming to an end, but your journey has just started and I hope that you have the necessary tools now to decide whether or not to give this outstanding anime a chance. Not to mention that its sequel "Aria the Origination" finishes the whole series in one of the most emotional ways I've ever encountered in anime or any other medium before.

Aria had captured my heart in no time... so why not yours too?