January 10th, 2011
Mew's Top 10 Anime Shows of 2010
Anime Relations: Cobra The Animation, Nodame Cantabile Finale, Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin, Cat Shit One, Katanagatari, Sengoku Basara Ni, Durarara!!, Mitsudomoe, Giant Killing, Yojouhan Shinwa Taikei, Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai, Soredemo Machi wa Mawatteiru, Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai
Mew’s Top 10 Anime Shows of 2010
This is strictly opinion, but who cares if it is? My words are fact, so if you don’t like ‘em then tough luck. I wanted to start with a “No, ___ is not on the list.” But that wouldn’t be fun, now would it? Let’s keep it in suspense and whatnot. Anyways, personally I find this year somewhat more enjoyable than 2009. There are far less sequels which make way for much more new anime series. Besides the lack of sequels, the quality of the shows really is better this year. Last year, I was raging off the top of my lungs so much anime shows that I just had to make a top 10 anime list the tell the wonderful people what is good. But not so much this year, but still I felt like I wanted to make the list. So let’s do it.
Oh and, I’m not including OVAs, ONAs, or movies. I still have yet to watch the Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha movie or the Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya anyways.
Go to the end for the final list.
Oh and…SPOILERS FOR ALL THE SHOWS!
10. Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai
What’s this? An incestuous anime show that isn’t generic, lame, boring, and bland? No fucking way! And what else? Our heroine is an otaku/fujoshi/anime nerd?! What the hell!? Well really, I liked shows like Genshiken, Otaku no Video, and I guess I liked Lucky Star but I still wanted anime shows that had characters that liked anime, manga, visual novels, etc. Surprisingly, a show about incest gave me one.
To the very end, this show ended up being amusing at each scene. All, except Ayase, are likable characters and each have their own moment/s where they shine and you can’t help but stand up and just root for them. The fact that there could be an incestuous relationship between Kyousuke and Kirino is somewhat subtle. Kyousuke pretty much has a harem consisting of a childhood friend, younger sister, and her younger sister’s friends and sometimes wonders why he bothers to help Kirino since she has always been a little brat towards him. Kirino is kind of complex in that we, and possibly she herself, knows what she really wants from Kyousuke. She started off wanting him to understand her passion of anime (and little sisters) and helping her with her conflicts relating to it. Yet she didn’t show much gratitude until the last couple of episodes.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well call it nitpicky but I hate Kyousuke’s appearance. I know it’s supposed to be contrasting to Kirino’s style, he’s unfashionable while she is, he has horrible looks, while she is a model, he has blue hair and she has orange…which happen to be opposite colors. But you can do all that…without having him look like a freakin supporting or extra character. Really, can you look at him and say “He must be the main character.” No. You can’t. And if you can, you’re lying to yourself. Another problem I have, and it could have been number 9 if it wasn’t for this, was…THE LAST MOTHERFUCKING EPISODE. GOD DAMMIT THIS EPISODE TO HELL.
Around the time the anime first started airing, spoilers has been spreading around. The last episode was about Kirino having to go to America so she can improve her physical activity on track running or some shit. See the problem with that is…IT WAS THE LATEST FUCKING THING HAPPENING IN THE LIGHT NOVEL. The anime itself wasn’t even close to where the light novel was, so the director just pulled it out of fucking no where and said “Hey, this I your end. Deal with it.” And with that, now we can’t get a sequel. Not only that, the ending really felt rushed and it made no sense. So he wanted him to tell her to not to leave, but he does tell her to leave to America, yet she decides not to go? What the fuck is going on. Thankfully, there will be some “true” episodes to fill in some of the missing parts of the light novel. I do wonder what in the blue hell the director was thinking though.
9. The World God Only Knows a.k.a. Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai
And this is how I start every episode. READY. STEADY. GO. AWESOME OP FUCKING LOADED AND READY TO LAUNCH. But really, the opening theme song is just amazing. I forgot to mention but I like many of the openings this year, especially The World God Only Know’s opening song. The ending song is great too, I mean…dem feet. I prefer the version where Kanae Itou (Elsie’s voice actor/seiyuu) sings it though.
Anyways, remember how I said I wished more anime shows had otakus? Yeah, this is another show that gave me them. What else? Devil girl, who happens to be voiced by my favorite seiyuu, Kanae Itou. Just lovely. This show is just very good. It’s amusing and entertaining Keima just working his way on the girls, while still being true to himself. Keima really is the kind of God that some otakus will look up too. The girls that Keima captures aren’t so bad either, even if a certain someone did have more screen time than the others. And again, I really like Elsie. There isn’t really a whole lot to say as to why I like this show, it’s just plain awesome.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…this is a personal thing, but I read the manga long before the anime. So because of that, this is pretty much the same old thing to me. Nothing new, all I can do is go “Hey that didn’t happen in the manga” or “The director really rushed that scene” or whatever. But what I did have a problem was how the girls got so much different amounts of screentime. Ayumi was the first capture, thus had to be the introduction of how Keima works. Understandable, it was like this in the manga too. Mio only took two episodes; okay sure it wasn’t that long in the manga as well. Then…Kanon takes up four episodes. Why? She didn’t have that much longer time compared to Mio, are you trying to make us feel worse about her? Really, Kanon has always been my least liked captured girl so I really am ticked off when she gets screen time. Shiori gets like, two or three which is fine. Really, not much problems just nitpicky stuff. Also, it doesn’t compare to the rest of the shows.
8. Sengoku Basara 2
PUT YOUR GUNS O- What’s that? They stopped saying that? Dammit. But really though, this show was great. Production I.G. really is one of my favorite studios just because of how well animated their series can be. The action scenes are great, the scenery is good to look at, and the pacing of the show was pretty good too. Albeit, maybe a bit slow for some. Compared to Sengoku Basara from 2009, this series was more story driven and had more character development. First one was about the big bad Warlord Oda coming trying to conquer all of Japan. This was about…well, Hideyoshi, the big bad Monkey trying to conquer all of Japan. But there is a difference. He had a former relationship with Keiji. So we see a side of him that makes him a bit different from Oda. Also unlike Oda, he seems more intimidating because he doesn’t need weapons to beat the crap out of people, just his huge stature.
Character development was heavy here because of how Yukimura had to learn on being a general (or whatever he plans to be or something), Keiji was trying to uncorrupt his former friend, Kojuurou had to prove himself to his master Date, and Date…well, was Date. But he did get stronger, I guess.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well there’s far less action compared to the first season. Don’t get me wrong, I like the action and character development but when I see Sengoku Basara and it’s over the top action, that’s what I’m expecting to get. When there were action scenes, it was great. The last episode did give us three different fights (or was it four?), all directed and animated quite well. I don’t have many problems with the series itself, but I’m not the kind of person who likes to see talking a whole lot. Again, maybe nitpicky but that’s just me. Oh and the lack of PUT YA GUNS ON, is a big letdown.
7. Katanagatari
Did they ever explain Togame’s eye? Really, did they? I never got it. Anyways, Katanagatari is pretty much like Sengoku Basara in that you expect action, but got a story. In this case, Katanagatari was better story-wise. The author Isin Nisio, also known for Bakemonogatari and Kizumonogatari is known for his witty dialogue between characters, and that’s what we were given a lot in Katanagatari. When Togame and Shichika talked, it was usually quite amusing and entertaining to listen to. When a serious scene starts, the dialogue is still well written in that you get hyped for the real fighting to begin.
And besides all that, I love swords. Anything about swords, or hell even martial arts, is just great. So it got me curious right at the beginning of the series on what the swords or like or what they can do. Sure, maybe it disappointed me a little bit but it was still great. Whenever there was an action scene, you really think to yourself “How will Shichika pull off this time?” since each episode there’s always an opposing new force that Shichika has never faced yet.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…it can get somewhat boring. Yes, when it is becoming good, it outweighs the boredom you get but still. I mean, you know how you watch harem series or whatever, you just yell out “GO FUCK ALREADY!” In here you go, “GO FIGHT ALREADY!” Sure the dialogue can be amusing, but sometimes you feel like they’re just talking and talking so they can fill in the time. Really, it can be irritating and the fact that some episodes are formulated like past episode, it does not help at all. Also, we got massively trolled at episode 4, I know it doesn’t actually happen at the light novel, but that doesn’t excuse it with that preview they gave as at the last episode. It’s an enjoyable series, but don’t hope for much.
6. The Tatami Galaxy a.k.a. Yojouhan Shinwa Taikei
This is an anime that really was different from the rest. You do not see much anime shows with a College student, where it does involve real life problems, which does not have to do much about romance or dreams, rather it’s the opposite. Our main character, who I will just call MC for now on since he has no name, can pretty much be seen as the everyday man. He’s normal, do what others tell him to do, lay back, and afraid to take chances. Rather, the message of the series is that you should take any opportunity you can or else you will miss something amazing. So as an audience, is real easy to relate to someone like him. As for the cast itself, they’re all a bunch of enjoyable characters…especially Ozu. God damn, Ozu is just hilarious. He trolls MC so much and everyone around him. He is just the entire amusement of the show. The anime was amusing because of Ozu, but also because of the wackiness of the other characters and the situations MC gets himself into.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well no particular reason I can think of. There was a lack of Akashi but it worked well. It was confusing at the end, but all the more reason since the world was already mysterious. Sure, MC was spineless but that’s just so we can relate to him as the average guy. Yes, it’s episodic but that’s what makes it good. I guess it’s just that…by this point on the list, the next anime shows I really just enjoyed much more. And you guys will probably hate me, or won’t be surprised at all, as to see what is next.
5. Mitsudomoe
Yes. I fucking love lolis, so maybe this is me being completely bias. But it’s not normal for me to consider such a show like this to be in a top ten show of the year. This show was different compared to other slice of life shows. How? Because it is just freakin hilarious. Yes, the formula is the same. Yes, most of the jokes include misunderstandings. Yes, the art of the characters look a tad bit odd. So what? It’s just great. Every single episode, every single scene I can’t stop myself from loving this show. Each punch line is great, the characters are fun to watch, and god dammit I’m a big lolicon, so I’m having lewd thoughts of all the girls.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…no reason in particular once again. I just like the other shows more. Although, Mitsuba can sometimes get on my nerves and maybe some jokes aren’t striking me as hard. Really, in comparison to the other shows, I just like them a bit more than this. There’s nothing wrong, it’s just not that good compared to the other four. Oh, and sometimes some of the jokes can be predictable. Sometimes, but even if you can see it coming you can still laugh.
4. Durarara!!
Watching this was odd, because as a Baccano! fan we pretty much expected something just like that, rather we get quite the opposite. We get more time for story and looking at the characters. Although, I probably enjoyed Baccano! more, this was still was very fun anime. As much as many people would disagree, I liked all the characters, yes especially Kida, Mikado, and Anri. I loved how each of them belonged to a faction that they each controlled. I liked how real each of them seems. I like how crazy the other characters are. I like Celty being so mysterious yet still have a personality that makes her adapted in our time. I like Shizuo being so over the top and insane. I like Izaya being cunningly devious with all of his plans. I like how Dota and his crew are so righteous. I like how for each new episode, you get more drawn into the characters and the story. Durarara!! was really great at being interesting, leaving you unable to wait for the next episode. Not many anime shows lately has made me feel like that in a while.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well, there are still some things I felt like they left out. The whole show is mysterious with its characters, yet not every single question was answered. Why is Izaya so insane like he is and what is he going to do with Celty’s head? What was the point of Kinnosuke is he’s just going to appear for two episodes? When the hell do we see Izaya’s sisters? Will Kida come back to Ikabukuro? And….okay to be honest I can’t think of any other questions to ask, but the show does make you wish for a second season, and with all the things they could do, there’s no surprise that there will be one. I haven’t seen the anime since it came out, so sorry if this sounds like I’m forgetting some things. I feel like I am, because I keep thinking to myself that Durarara!! left somethings unanswered, but I really can’t remember what.
3. GIANT KILLING
MOTHER.
FUCKING.
BAGPIPES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Let me just say, I know absolutely nothing about soccer/football, and I find Studio DEEN to be a really meh studio (really, I think all I like from them are Bincho-tan, Higurashi, and R.O.D. OVA). But GIANT KILLING was well done. Most of the characters had a purpose in each important game, they had a backstory to them, had to go through some kind of development, the matches were realistic, and it was all around enjoyable. Made me wanna get into soccer/football. When the show wants to be good, it can be great. When the show wants to be funny, it will make me laugh. DEEN has done a good job directing this show, and made me interested in reading the manga.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well I wish some of the other characters had some development as well, namely Natsu. He was hyped was the team’s best forward, but in the end he was unable to actually do something. I also wished there were more important games. That’s pretty much it, no real actual problems with this series.
2. RAINBOW
This is the #1 show that I looked forward to this year from all the hype I been hearing and how different this anime is, I was stoked and this anime did not disappoint. I hoped for something dark, something gritty and new and that’s what I got. Rather, I got more than what I wanted. We got six main characters, all developing every once in a while, except maybe for Soldier. Dastardly assholes of villains that we just can’t like and what them absolutely gone, and of course….We got Anchan aka Bro. Basically, he’s the Kamina of 2010. The badass, the teacher, the veteran, and the man you must look up to if you want to change things in your life. He was the heart of this show and possibly the main reason we kept watching this show. Yes, by the second half some people didn’t want to keep watching since he was gone, but we did get nice story arcs for Mario, Turtle, Cabbage, Uncovered, and Joe. …Soldier arc fucking where? But it was nice for each of them finding a place where they want to be. The anime made us actually care for each and every one of them, making us feel even better when they all got a decent life.
The reason why this the #1 Anime of 2010?…WHY DID ANCHAN HAVE TO DIE AND WHY DIDN’T SOLDIER GET AN ARC! Oh and the whole arc on Mario going back to jail was meh. But other than that, there really weren’t any problems. This was a great anime. But what could be number one?
Well.
Really, I can’t really say written wise, or anything that this anime is better than RAINBOW but I just liked it more. I just enjoyed every single moment of it, because it was that entertaining. I didn’t have to force myself to watch it, and marathoning the series was no problems since it was just that good.
1. Nodame Cantabile Finale
Yes, this was my favorite anime of the year. Solely, just for being very entertaining. The characters were funny and enjoyable. The music was fantastic. The comedy was good. The romance was fine. It was just done very well. There’s really nothing to say, I just really liked Nodame Cantabile Finale.
Honorable Mentions:
Cobra the Animation – This was just mindless fun. Cobra himself was a hilarious protagonist, I mean every single joke he made just put me in stiches. The only reason this wasn’t on the list is because I just enjoyed the rest more than this.
Cat Shit One – Okay, really shouldn’t be on the list but the animation was well done. And that’s pretty much it.
Soredemo Machi wa Mawatteiru - Surprisingly entertaining, really fun show to watch.
Really, name any other show you think would be Top 10 worthy this year, and I either hate it or just think it’s not as good as people say.
10. Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai
9. The World God Only Knows
8. Sengoku Basara 2
7. Katanagatari
6. Tatami Galaxy
5. Mitsudomoe
4. Durarara!!
3. GIANT KILLING
2. RAINBOW
1. Nodame Cantabile Finale
This is strictly opinion, but who cares if it is? My words are fact, so if you don’t like ‘em then tough luck. I wanted to start with a “No, ___ is not on the list.” But that wouldn’t be fun, now would it? Let’s keep it in suspense and whatnot. Anyways, personally I find this year somewhat more enjoyable than 2009. There are far less sequels which make way for much more new anime series. Besides the lack of sequels, the quality of the shows really is better this year. Last year, I was raging off the top of my lungs so much anime shows that I just had to make a top 10 anime list the tell the wonderful people what is good. But not so much this year, but still I felt like I wanted to make the list. So let’s do it.
Oh and, I’m not including OVAs, ONAs, or movies. I still have yet to watch the Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha movie or the Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya anyways.
Go to the end for the final list.
Oh and…SPOILERS FOR ALL THE SHOWS!
10. Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai
What’s this? An incestuous anime show that isn’t generic, lame, boring, and bland? No fucking way! And what else? Our heroine is an otaku/fujoshi/anime nerd?! What the hell!? Well really, I liked shows like Genshiken, Otaku no Video, and I guess I liked Lucky Star but I still wanted anime shows that had characters that liked anime, manga, visual novels, etc. Surprisingly, a show about incest gave me one.
To the very end, this show ended up being amusing at each scene. All, except Ayase, are likable characters and each have their own moment/s where they shine and you can’t help but stand up and just root for them. The fact that there could be an incestuous relationship between Kyousuke and Kirino is somewhat subtle. Kyousuke pretty much has a harem consisting of a childhood friend, younger sister, and her younger sister’s friends and sometimes wonders why he bothers to help Kirino since she has always been a little brat towards him. Kirino is kind of complex in that we, and possibly she herself, knows what she really wants from Kyousuke. She started off wanting him to understand her passion of anime (and little sisters) and helping her with her conflicts relating to it. Yet she didn’t show much gratitude until the last couple of episodes.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well call it nitpicky but I hate Kyousuke’s appearance. I know it’s supposed to be contrasting to Kirino’s style, he’s unfashionable while she is, he has horrible looks, while she is a model, he has blue hair and she has orange…which happen to be opposite colors. But you can do all that…without having him look like a freakin supporting or extra character. Really, can you look at him and say “He must be the main character.” No. You can’t. And if you can, you’re lying to yourself. Another problem I have, and it could have been number 9 if it wasn’t for this, was…THE LAST MOTHERFUCKING EPISODE. GOD DAMMIT THIS EPISODE TO HELL.
Around the time the anime first started airing, spoilers has been spreading around. The last episode was about Kirino having to go to America so she can improve her physical activity on track running or some shit. See the problem with that is…IT WAS THE LATEST FUCKING THING HAPPENING IN THE LIGHT NOVEL. The anime itself wasn’t even close to where the light novel was, so the director just pulled it out of fucking no where and said “Hey, this I your end. Deal with it.” And with that, now we can’t get a sequel. Not only that, the ending really felt rushed and it made no sense. So he wanted him to tell her to not to leave, but he does tell her to leave to America, yet she decides not to go? What the fuck is going on. Thankfully, there will be some “true” episodes to fill in some of the missing parts of the light novel. I do wonder what in the blue hell the director was thinking though.
9. The World God Only Knows a.k.a. Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai
And this is how I start every episode. READY. STEADY. GO. AWESOME OP FUCKING LOADED AND READY TO LAUNCH. But really, the opening theme song is just amazing. I forgot to mention but I like many of the openings this year, especially The World God Only Know’s opening song. The ending song is great too, I mean…dem feet. I prefer the version where Kanae Itou (Elsie’s voice actor/seiyuu) sings it though.
Anyways, remember how I said I wished more anime shows had otakus? Yeah, this is another show that gave me them. What else? Devil girl, who happens to be voiced by my favorite seiyuu, Kanae Itou. Just lovely. This show is just very good. It’s amusing and entertaining Keima just working his way on the girls, while still being true to himself. Keima really is the kind of God that some otakus will look up too. The girls that Keima captures aren’t so bad either, even if a certain someone did have more screen time than the others. And again, I really like Elsie. There isn’t really a whole lot to say as to why I like this show, it’s just plain awesome.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…this is a personal thing, but I read the manga long before the anime. So because of that, this is pretty much the same old thing to me. Nothing new, all I can do is go “Hey that didn’t happen in the manga” or “The director really rushed that scene” or whatever. But what I did have a problem was how the girls got so much different amounts of screentime. Ayumi was the first capture, thus had to be the introduction of how Keima works. Understandable, it was like this in the manga too. Mio only took two episodes; okay sure it wasn’t that long in the manga as well. Then…Kanon takes up four episodes. Why? She didn’t have that much longer time compared to Mio, are you trying to make us feel worse about her? Really, Kanon has always been my least liked captured girl so I really am ticked off when she gets screen time. Shiori gets like, two or three which is fine. Really, not much problems just nitpicky stuff. Also, it doesn’t compare to the rest of the shows.
8. Sengoku Basara 2
PUT YOUR GUNS O- What’s that? They stopped saying that? Dammit. But really though, this show was great. Production I.G. really is one of my favorite studios just because of how well animated their series can be. The action scenes are great, the scenery is good to look at, and the pacing of the show was pretty good too. Albeit, maybe a bit slow for some. Compared to Sengoku Basara from 2009, this series was more story driven and had more character development. First one was about the big bad Warlord Oda coming trying to conquer all of Japan. This was about…well, Hideyoshi, the big bad Monkey trying to conquer all of Japan. But there is a difference. He had a former relationship with Keiji. So we see a side of him that makes him a bit different from Oda. Also unlike Oda, he seems more intimidating because he doesn’t need weapons to beat the crap out of people, just his huge stature.
Character development was heavy here because of how Yukimura had to learn on being a general (or whatever he plans to be or something), Keiji was trying to uncorrupt his former friend, Kojuurou had to prove himself to his master Date, and Date…well, was Date. But he did get stronger, I guess.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well there’s far less action compared to the first season. Don’t get me wrong, I like the action and character development but when I see Sengoku Basara and it’s over the top action, that’s what I’m expecting to get. When there were action scenes, it was great. The last episode did give us three different fights (or was it four?), all directed and animated quite well. I don’t have many problems with the series itself, but I’m not the kind of person who likes to see talking a whole lot. Again, maybe nitpicky but that’s just me. Oh and the lack of PUT YA GUNS ON, is a big letdown.
7. Katanagatari
Did they ever explain Togame’s eye? Really, did they? I never got it. Anyways, Katanagatari is pretty much like Sengoku Basara in that you expect action, but got a story. In this case, Katanagatari was better story-wise. The author Isin Nisio, also known for Bakemonogatari and Kizumonogatari is known for his witty dialogue between characters, and that’s what we were given a lot in Katanagatari. When Togame and Shichika talked, it was usually quite amusing and entertaining to listen to. When a serious scene starts, the dialogue is still well written in that you get hyped for the real fighting to begin.
And besides all that, I love swords. Anything about swords, or hell even martial arts, is just great. So it got me curious right at the beginning of the series on what the swords or like or what they can do. Sure, maybe it disappointed me a little bit but it was still great. Whenever there was an action scene, you really think to yourself “How will Shichika pull off this time?” since each episode there’s always an opposing new force that Shichika has never faced yet.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…it can get somewhat boring. Yes, when it is becoming good, it outweighs the boredom you get but still. I mean, you know how you watch harem series or whatever, you just yell out “GO FUCK ALREADY!” In here you go, “GO FIGHT ALREADY!” Sure the dialogue can be amusing, but sometimes you feel like they’re just talking and talking so they can fill in the time. Really, it can be irritating and the fact that some episodes are formulated like past episode, it does not help at all. Also, we got massively trolled at episode 4, I know it doesn’t actually happen at the light novel, but that doesn’t excuse it with that preview they gave as at the last episode. It’s an enjoyable series, but don’t hope for much.
6. The Tatami Galaxy a.k.a. Yojouhan Shinwa Taikei
This is an anime that really was different from the rest. You do not see much anime shows with a College student, where it does involve real life problems, which does not have to do much about romance or dreams, rather it’s the opposite. Our main character, who I will just call MC for now on since he has no name, can pretty much be seen as the everyday man. He’s normal, do what others tell him to do, lay back, and afraid to take chances. Rather, the message of the series is that you should take any opportunity you can or else you will miss something amazing. So as an audience, is real easy to relate to someone like him. As for the cast itself, they’re all a bunch of enjoyable characters…especially Ozu. God damn, Ozu is just hilarious. He trolls MC so much and everyone around him. He is just the entire amusement of the show. The anime was amusing because of Ozu, but also because of the wackiness of the other characters and the situations MC gets himself into.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well no particular reason I can think of. There was a lack of Akashi but it worked well. It was confusing at the end, but all the more reason since the world was already mysterious. Sure, MC was spineless but that’s just so we can relate to him as the average guy. Yes, it’s episodic but that’s what makes it good. I guess it’s just that…by this point on the list, the next anime shows I really just enjoyed much more. And you guys will probably hate me, or won’t be surprised at all, as to see what is next.
5. Mitsudomoe
Yes. I fucking love lolis, so maybe this is me being completely bias. But it’s not normal for me to consider such a show like this to be in a top ten show of the year. This show was different compared to other slice of life shows. How? Because it is just freakin hilarious. Yes, the formula is the same. Yes, most of the jokes include misunderstandings. Yes, the art of the characters look a tad bit odd. So what? It’s just great. Every single episode, every single scene I can’t stop myself from loving this show. Each punch line is great, the characters are fun to watch, and god dammit I’m a big lolicon, so I’m having lewd thoughts of all the girls.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…no reason in particular once again. I just like the other shows more. Although, Mitsuba can sometimes get on my nerves and maybe some jokes aren’t striking me as hard. Really, in comparison to the other shows, I just like them a bit more than this. There’s nothing wrong, it’s just not that good compared to the other four. Oh, and sometimes some of the jokes can be predictable. Sometimes, but even if you can see it coming you can still laugh.
4. Durarara!!
Watching this was odd, because as a Baccano! fan we pretty much expected something just like that, rather we get quite the opposite. We get more time for story and looking at the characters. Although, I probably enjoyed Baccano! more, this was still was very fun anime. As much as many people would disagree, I liked all the characters, yes especially Kida, Mikado, and Anri. I loved how each of them belonged to a faction that they each controlled. I liked how real each of them seems. I like how crazy the other characters are. I like Celty being so mysterious yet still have a personality that makes her adapted in our time. I like Shizuo being so over the top and insane. I like Izaya being cunningly devious with all of his plans. I like how Dota and his crew are so righteous. I like how for each new episode, you get more drawn into the characters and the story. Durarara!! was really great at being interesting, leaving you unable to wait for the next episode. Not many anime shows lately has made me feel like that in a while.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well, there are still some things I felt like they left out. The whole show is mysterious with its characters, yet not every single question was answered. Why is Izaya so insane like he is and what is he going to do with Celty’s head? What was the point of Kinnosuke is he’s just going to appear for two episodes? When the hell do we see Izaya’s sisters? Will Kida come back to Ikabukuro? And….okay to be honest I can’t think of any other questions to ask, but the show does make you wish for a second season, and with all the things they could do, there’s no surprise that there will be one. I haven’t seen the anime since it came out, so sorry if this sounds like I’m forgetting some things. I feel like I am, because I keep thinking to myself that Durarara!! left somethings unanswered, but I really can’t remember what.
3. GIANT KILLING
MOTHER.
FUCKING.
BAGPIPES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Let me just say, I know absolutely nothing about soccer/football, and I find Studio DEEN to be a really meh studio (really, I think all I like from them are Bincho-tan, Higurashi, and R.O.D. OVA). But GIANT KILLING was well done. Most of the characters had a purpose in each important game, they had a backstory to them, had to go through some kind of development, the matches were realistic, and it was all around enjoyable. Made me wanna get into soccer/football. When the show wants to be good, it can be great. When the show wants to be funny, it will make me laugh. DEEN has done a good job directing this show, and made me interested in reading the manga.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well I wish some of the other characters had some development as well, namely Natsu. He was hyped was the team’s best forward, but in the end he was unable to actually do something. I also wished there were more important games. That’s pretty much it, no real actual problems with this series.
2. RAINBOW
This is the #1 show that I looked forward to this year from all the hype I been hearing and how different this anime is, I was stoked and this anime did not disappoint. I hoped for something dark, something gritty and new and that’s what I got. Rather, I got more than what I wanted. We got six main characters, all developing every once in a while, except maybe for Soldier. Dastardly assholes of villains that we just can’t like and what them absolutely gone, and of course….We got Anchan aka Bro. Basically, he’s the Kamina of 2010. The badass, the teacher, the veteran, and the man you must look up to if you want to change things in your life. He was the heart of this show and possibly the main reason we kept watching this show. Yes, by the second half some people didn’t want to keep watching since he was gone, but we did get nice story arcs for Mario, Turtle, Cabbage, Uncovered, and Joe. …Soldier arc fucking where? But it was nice for each of them finding a place where they want to be. The anime made us actually care for each and every one of them, making us feel even better when they all got a decent life.
The reason why this the #1 Anime of 2010?…WHY DID ANCHAN HAVE TO DIE AND WHY DIDN’T SOLDIER GET AN ARC! Oh and the whole arc on Mario going back to jail was meh. But other than that, there really weren’t any problems. This was a great anime. But what could be number one?
Well.
Really, I can’t really say written wise, or anything that this anime is better than RAINBOW but I just liked it more. I just enjoyed every single moment of it, because it was that entertaining. I didn’t have to force myself to watch it, and marathoning the series was no problems since it was just that good.
1. Nodame Cantabile Finale
Yes, this was my favorite anime of the year. Solely, just for being very entertaining. The characters were funny and enjoyable. The music was fantastic. The comedy was good. The romance was fine. It was just done very well. There’s really nothing to say, I just really liked Nodame Cantabile Finale.
Honorable Mentions:
Cobra the Animation – This was just mindless fun. Cobra himself was a hilarious protagonist, I mean every single joke he made just put me in stiches. The only reason this wasn’t on the list is because I just enjoyed the rest more than this.
Cat Shit One – Okay, really shouldn’t be on the list but the animation was well done. And that’s pretty much it.
Soredemo Machi wa Mawatteiru - Surprisingly entertaining, really fun show to watch.
Really, name any other show you think would be Top 10 worthy this year, and I either hate it or just think it’s not as good as people say.
10. Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai
9. The World God Only Knows
8. Sengoku Basara 2
7. Katanagatari
6. Tatami Galaxy
5. Mitsudomoe
4. Durarara!!
3. GIANT KILLING
2. RAINBOW
1. Nodame Cantabile Finale
Posted by MewMatic197 | Jan 10, 2011 1:32 PM | 0 comments
December 31st, 2009
Mew’s Top 10 Anime Shows of 2009
Anime Relations: Maria†Holic, Bakemonogatari, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger, Ookami to Koushinryou II, Sengoku Basara, Shin Mazinger Shougeki! Z-hen, Higashi no Eden, Cross Game, Chi's Sweet Home: Atarashii Ouchi, Kimi ni Todoke, Tokyo Magnitude 8.0, Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei, Kuuchuu Buranko, Aoi Bungaku Series
Mew’s Top 10 Anime Shows of 2009
tl;dr version:
10. Bakemonogatari
9. Kimi ni Todoke
8. Trapeze
7. Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei
6. Eden of the East
5. Sengoku Basara
4. Shin Mazinger Z
3. Aoi Bungaku / Blue Literature
2. Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood
1. Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger
2009, a year of shitty ass shows, yet there were actually a lot of decent ones. Plenty of second seasons and remakes this year too. Trolling, fanservice, moe, and crap like that too. But what were truly the great shows of this year?Fuck if I know, but in my opinion these are the shows that shined this year.
By the way, this listen won’t incude OVAs, ONAs, or Movies. If I did include them, then Ichigo Mashimaro encore and Higurash no Naku Koro ni Rei will be included. No I have yet to see Summer Wars or Kara no Kyoukai 7.
10. Bakemonogatari
Bakemonogatari Success and Triumph
1. Top Summer Anime according to 2ch
2. Top Summer Anime according to Dengeki
3. Weeks Best-selling Novel Series according to Asahi Shimbun Newspaper
4. Second highest selling DVD/BD anime TV series in the first week
5. Most downloaded anime released by GG since year began
6. Hideo Kojima has already started to read Bakemonogatari novel, According to his blog.
7. Bakemonogatari is the highest selling non mecha anime in history.
NUFF. FUCKING. SAID. But seriously, Bakemonogatari is pretty damn good. The dialogue is witty and amusing, and this happens nearly every episode. Since it is animated by SHAFT, without a doubt the animation is quite eye appealing. Some people may hate the way SHAFT handles their shows, but I am quite a fan of it.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well, for what it’s worth, it pretty much has the same formula every episode. Araragi meets a girl, finds out her problem, talks to her, and then saves her. After that, they have a funny conversation. It is good, but I would like to see something different, good thing the series itself is not that long or else I would really be tired of that. Another problem I have is that it is a harem. I have no problem with harems, but it’s just not my thing. Besides, why can’t Araragi save a guy for once? A man to man conversation could be more amusing to the audience than a man to woman conversation. But hey, it’s still a good show. However, let me quote Public Enemy here and say…DON’T BELIEVE IN THE HYPE!
9. Kimi ni Todoke
Besides a few magical girl series, I don’t really know much about shoujo. Remind me to ask Becca and YamaChan for help on that. Anyways this show is quite refreshing than most of the shows I watch. Romantic series between an unpopular girl and a very popular school celebrity, never really seen anything like this. At first I thought it would be boring, but it truly grabbed my interest after the first episode. Sawako (or Sadako) is adorably innocent, and the rest of the characters are good in their own way. Also, I love the visuals. I wish my night sky was as beautiful as theirs.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…Well, from what I been told, it has typical shoujo clichés. There are plenty of misunderstandings and drama made from those misunderstandings. Now that’s okay, but in a realistic sense it’s not. But who am I kidding? Anime? Realism? Lol. Still, I don’t like how every conflict so far in the series was created by a misunderstanding. The show isn’t over yet so maybe not all of them will be made from misunderstandings.
8. Trapeze/Kucho Buranko
WEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLCOOOOOOOOOOME! Another great series from the supposedly crappy Fall season of ’09. Trapeze, or Kucho Buranko, is show not like most anime shows people watch. Lately anime has degraded itself to shows that mainly have to do with fanservice, moe, harem, or over the top action. There are a few shows that set it apart from that, and that’s Trapeze. Basically it’s about patients who need help with problems such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, so they go to a psychiatrist named Irabu, who is kind of insane. He wears some weird costume, but changes between appearances. He can be a little kid or a cynical adult as well, however the patient usually never notices. Unlike most shows, Irabu treats males. Yes, males. No females. Holy crap, what is this? Actually it’s pretty amusing. The patients get themselves into trouble with their illnesses. In the end, the patients get over their illnesses and finish off the episodes happy. One more thing I like about this is that all the patients’ stories end up in other patient’s stories. For example, at the end of the series, Yuta is a patient who has an obsession over his cellphone. Later on, his father, Dr. Tsuda has his own kind of illness that is connected with his son. It is done so beautiful.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because… Some episodes are a hit or miss. All of them are entertaining but some more than others. Also, and this seems to be a big problem for everyone, is the random coloring and polka dots seen in every episode. That set off a lot of viewers away, calling it a trippy mindfuck. That doesn’t seem to be a problem for me, since it was easy to get use to by episode two, but it still leaves problems at times. Another problem is that some of the stuff gets confusing. Characters switch between being a cartoon to being a real person, Irabu’s appearance changing from time to time, and characters turning into animals after getting a shot from Irabu. Sometimes it’s obvious but other times you just don’t know.
7. Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei
Rumba > Bure > Ringo Migore Beam. But that does not mean Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei was bad at all. Like the seasons before it, Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei is pretty damn funny. It is a different comedy than shows like Cromartie High School of Full Metal Panic Fumoffu. It pokes fun at human everyday tendencies that I never really notice until after they mentioned them. The way they talk about them really blows my mind and makes me wonder how Koji Kumeta notices all of these. Another great thing about this show is that even though there are plenty of female characters, and just one main male character, there are still some other male characters out there so it sort of evens out.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…like Trapeze, it’s a hit or a miss. Some episodes leave me in stitches while other episodes are just okay. Another thing the show tends to do is use Chiri, and god I think I will be flamed for this, too much. Yes, her gimmick is that she kills people and fucks shit up but it sort of gets old. There is a huge cast and I’m glad they added even more, but you can use them you know.
6. Eden of the East/Higashi no Eden
I can already feel the hate I am getting for putting this not much higher on the list. People seem to like shows like Eden of the East. You know, like Highlander, Rozen Maiden, and Mirai Nikki. The whole, kill these people and you will grow stronger or gain something kind of story. I like those too. What’s great though is that the main character is pretty cool. Akira Takizawa is mysterious and interesting, but over that he seems like a fun person to hang out with. He has a dog with wings, his house is a fucking mall, and he wants to save NEETs. Wow. That’s cool man. The rest of the characters are alright, but Takizawa is just so cool. Besides the main plot, the mystery behind the whole Careless Monday is mindboggling, and with the powers of the Selecao, anything could happen. The show was also animated by Production I.G., who also animated Kimi ni Todoke. So you can bet the animation and visuals are great. In fact, they even got English voice actors for American characters. How the hell did they do that?
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well, everyone can guess why. The show was too short. For a plot like Eden of the East, you need a lot of time to develop the characters and hype up the enemies. They managed to do half of that in eleven episodes, but all that did was make the audience want more. Of course, they will continue it but with two movies rather than another season. I guess this is different, but I just wish they didn’t make us need to wait. Not a big problem, but I don’t really like the faces of the characters. The thing on their nose is annoying and I just wanna rip whatever the hell it is off.
5. Sengoku Basara
Dear Production I.G., don’t stop being so great. Sengoku Basara is really a great show and appealing to those who like action. Usually when you think of samurai anime shows, or ones that based in feudal times, you just think stuff like…demons, legendary swordsmen, evil ruling empires taking over and stuff. Well guess what? THIS HAS…only the last one. The plot isn’t too terrific but the action is where it’s at. You got Date, a Six sword wielding maniac, Yukimura who…somehow…can attack with fire tornados, and Honda. Honda isn’t a main character or anything but Jesus, he’s a fucking mecha jet-packing warrior. HOW COOL IS THAT?! Also you got Oda. A villain voiced by Wakamoto, and if that isn’t evil enough for you, he drinks from skulls. Skulls. Yeah, he’s badass. Put characters like these together and you got kick ass fights in nearly every episode.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…not every episode has over the top fighting. Now that’s not a problem, but sometimes you are put off by the times they do not fight. Another thing is that sometimes during fights, the animators resort to sketch fights. Some people like it, but I don’t like it as much as others. The number one thing I just didn’t like is that the final battle had too much Date and Yukimura. It’s expected that they should fight Oda, but I wanted to see Maeda, Takeda, and even Uesugi with his ridiculous outfit do something. But no, they all were either injured or just not there when they could have helped.
4. Shin Mazinger Shougeki! Z-Hen
The mecha series of the year. Maybe this was not as good as Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann but it still kicked major ass. Kouji may be your typical shounen lead, but the rest of the characters are truly better characters than he will ever be. Tsubasa and Baron Ashura are some of the best characters I have ever seen. The background and development of their characters was phenomenal. The other characters are good too, a whole lot more original than most characters nowadays, but they are nothing compared to Tsubasa or Ashura. The action is great too but the plot and story is where the show really shines. Remind me to go watch/read more Go Nagai stuff.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…a couple things. First off, there was some kind of fad between anime shows where the first episode was some weird filler. Mazinger Z was no exception and the first episode put off some viewers while it fucked the minds of others. Really, was there a need to have that kind of episode? Another problem is…well, is it just me do the character’s mouths seem weird? Kind of nitpicky, but the art at times bugs me. Also Kouji sucks. By no means is he terrible, but compared to everyone else he is. At times I really just wish they would only show Kouji when he is fighting or giving more development towards Tsubasa.
3. Aoi Bungaku
Watch this. I don’t care what you like, go watch it. If you like romance, action, or comedy, go watch this. Does Aoi Bungaku have that? Maybe not, but just watch it. Aoi Bungaku basically is an animation of what could be live action shows. Thank God it was an anime so I can watch this magical piece of work. The animation is amazing (if only Madhouse can be this consistently good), the switch between artists is great, and the philosophy and thoughts behind each story is DEEEEEEEP. In all seriousness, I am not much of a hard thinker or mature at all, but I still love this show. It is just so different from everything else. When I watched this, I had no idea what I would be watching but it ended up being great. Each arc and story in the series holds a different purpose and story behind it.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…again, some stories are better than the others. No Longer Human, Kokoro, and Run, Melos are all really amazing. The Spider’s Thread and Hell Screen are fantastic. Cherry Blossoms, eh…wish it was a little bit more serious. The Nana Mizuki moe moments, random iPod and phone cameras moments, and the boar was just lame. Was there really a need to have those? I guess there is a deeper meaning within it, but I would not know.
2. Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood
If the Big 3 was the Big 4, FMA would be the fourth series. The ever so popular series of Full Metal Alchemist definitely lives up to its hype. Where can I start to talk on how great this series is? The characters are great, the story is amazing, and I have no problems with the animation at all. If I had to try and think right now, I really can not remember an anime that actually uses science in any way. How does Hiromu Arakawa do it? Did she have a major in chemistry or something? Either way, Fullmetal Alchemist really is truly amazing.
WHY THE HELL ISN’T THIS #1? I SHOULD KILL YOU FOR THIS!
Well it’s not because…I like the anime I put for #1 a whole lot more. The negative stuff I have to say for Fullmetal Alchemist are nitpicky bullshit such as, I prefer the dub way more than the sub. Or, the comedy parts at random times seem out of place and awkward. And, is it just me or is the art in Brotherhood more…round and bouncy than the kind at the original anime. Oh and I can’t forget…THIS ANIME HAS NO REWRITE. WHAT THE BLOODY HELL IS THIS SHIT? RAAAAAAAAAAAAAGE.
1. Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger
What did you expect? Akikan? Boxing is healthier than soda. I love Hajime no Ippo, top 5 series for me and it’s not surprise for someone like me to enjoy this as much. Hajime no Ippo has a different and more modern feel to it than the original series, something that was tough for me to get use to but it is still the same old Hajime no Ippo that I love. The characters are the same, the fights are magnificent and the opening is……crap compared to OP2 of the original but that does not matter.
Unlike the first anime, this focused a whole lot more on other characters such as Miyata, Date, and of course, Takamura. Ippo was really the whole center in the first anime, leaving matches that contained other characters to be quite short and summarized but now we get to see more of their matches. Also the series has an actual villainous heel and not just some other strong boxer that the main character must defeat. Bryan Hawk has to be one of the greatest heels, written wise and emotional wise. He has that attitude that makes you want to kill him. Disrespecting boxing and Japan itself, that is a motherfucking heel. Bryan Hawk is real villain in boxing; in fact he is a better villain than most anime villains. And the fight between the two, fan-fucking-tastic.
Some thing that really gives Hajime no Ippo a different vibe than most shows is that is has emotion. “Holy Jesus fuck, anime with emotion? C’mon, you just mean they are yelling right?” No, go jump off a cliff. Determination, determination, determination. That’s the keyword here. I know, sport anime shows are mainly about this but since this is boxing and has fights, it works double. I hear a few stories about Hajime no Ippo changing people, like their goals, or giving them some kind of motivation. For me, it motivates me to be a little bit more active. A long time dream of mine is to be a professional wrestler, and that is quite different than being a boxer but I still need to be physically in shape. I am thankful now for Hajime no Ippo and the motivation it has rubbed on me. By the way, I made an Ippo boxer in Fight Night Round 4, and he sucks ass.
Only problems I have with this show is the theme song, Kimura, and Kumi’s voice. Not big problems but I might as well talk about them. LAST ALLIANCE is a good band and all, but really, everyone knows OP2 kicks so much major ass. Why didn’t they just get something from the same people who made that? Kimura is my favorite between the four main boxers. He’s mature, collected, and pretty cool guy. His fight with Mashiba has to be one of my favorites. Sadly, he lost all his momentum after that match and becomes nothing worthy of praise any longer. As for Kumi’s voice…well, it’s just not as good as the original one. I don’t know, maybe I’m just use to it. Thinking about it, what the hell is up with Aoki’s hair?
Well that’s my Top 10 Anime Shows of the Year. Here are some honorable mentions:
Maria+Holic:
It was funny, had classic SHAFT animation, and the characters were great. However my only problem was that there was only a few times the show actually made me laugh. You know what would have made it really entertaining though? Asami Sanada as the boke and Miyuki Sawashiro as the tsukkomi in a manzai stand up.
Cross Game:
Another great show that could have been on the list. Looking at it, it seems like it’s just your standard baseball series. You have the main character who’s perfect, his friends who are good but not the best, and the girl who is great but can’t play. Yeah you got the stereotypes, but it is so much more than that. The show itself is entertaining with great humor, but sometimes I can see it not being my kind of show. The art of the characters is kind of bland and the pace of the show is sort of slow. A combination I don’t really like. That’s not to say it’s terrible, but it is just not for me.
Tokyo Magnitude 8.0.:
One of the most original premise for a show, and they handled it kind of well. Characters are realistic and well developed. However, I am not fond about some of the stuff in the series. We expected realism right? (again, lol realistic anime) But nothing major happened in the first beginning episodes. Oh yeah, people are starving, buildings collapsing, Tokyo Tower is falling, yeah that’s all great but nothing truly tragic. Then when Yuuki died, of course the viewers feel bad but I just got up from my seat and yelled out “FUCKING FINALLY SOMEONE DIED!” Finally the main characters got hit hard, now that’s some realism there. You can’t expect a plot like this to have a really happy feeling, fuck that. We want tears and sadness.
Chi’s New Address:
Beginning episodes is just your average kiddy stuff. Although the humor is quite good, but the end episodes just really touched me. Seriously, I nearly teared.
Spice & Wolf II:
To be honest, this was more exciting and enjoyable than the first season. I got nothing much else to say about this show though; it just was not as good as the shows above it.
tl;dr version:
10. Bakemonogatari
9. Kimi ni Todoke
8. Trapeze
7. Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei
6. Eden of the East
5. Sengoku Basara
4. Shin Mazinger Z
3. Aoi Bungaku / Blue Literature
2. Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood
1. Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger
2009, a year of shitty ass shows, yet there were actually a lot of decent ones. Plenty of second seasons and remakes this year too. Trolling, fanservice, moe, and crap like that too. But what were truly the great shows of this year?Fuck if I know, but in my opinion these are the shows that shined this year.
By the way, this listen won’t incude OVAs, ONAs, or Movies. If I did include them, then Ichigo Mashimaro encore and Higurash no Naku Koro ni Rei will be included. No I have yet to see Summer Wars or Kara no Kyoukai 7.
10. Bakemonogatari
Bakemonogatari Success and Triumph
1. Top Summer Anime according to 2ch
2. Top Summer Anime according to Dengeki
3. Weeks Best-selling Novel Series according to Asahi Shimbun Newspaper
4. Second highest selling DVD/BD anime TV series in the first week
5. Most downloaded anime released by GG since year began
6. Hideo Kojima has already started to read Bakemonogatari novel, According to his blog.
7. Bakemonogatari is the highest selling non mecha anime in history.
NUFF. FUCKING. SAID. But seriously, Bakemonogatari is pretty damn good. The dialogue is witty and amusing, and this happens nearly every episode. Since it is animated by SHAFT, without a doubt the animation is quite eye appealing. Some people may hate the way SHAFT handles their shows, but I am quite a fan of it.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well, for what it’s worth, it pretty much has the same formula every episode. Araragi meets a girl, finds out her problem, talks to her, and then saves her. After that, they have a funny conversation. It is good, but I would like to see something different, good thing the series itself is not that long or else I would really be tired of that. Another problem I have is that it is a harem. I have no problem with harems, but it’s just not my thing. Besides, why can’t Araragi save a guy for once? A man to man conversation could be more amusing to the audience than a man to woman conversation. But hey, it’s still a good show. However, let me quote Public Enemy here and say…DON’T BELIEVE IN THE HYPE!
9. Kimi ni Todoke
Besides a few magical girl series, I don’t really know much about shoujo. Remind me to ask Becca and YamaChan for help on that. Anyways this show is quite refreshing than most of the shows I watch. Romantic series between an unpopular girl and a very popular school celebrity, never really seen anything like this. At first I thought it would be boring, but it truly grabbed my interest after the first episode. Sawako (or Sadako) is adorably innocent, and the rest of the characters are good in their own way. Also, I love the visuals. I wish my night sky was as beautiful as theirs.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…Well, from what I been told, it has typical shoujo clichés. There are plenty of misunderstandings and drama made from those misunderstandings. Now that’s okay, but in a realistic sense it’s not. But who am I kidding? Anime? Realism? Lol. Still, I don’t like how every conflict so far in the series was created by a misunderstanding. The show isn’t over yet so maybe not all of them will be made from misunderstandings.
8. Trapeze/Kucho Buranko
WEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLCOOOOOOOOOOME! Another great series from the supposedly crappy Fall season of ’09. Trapeze, or Kucho Buranko, is show not like most anime shows people watch. Lately anime has degraded itself to shows that mainly have to do with fanservice, moe, harem, or over the top action. There are a few shows that set it apart from that, and that’s Trapeze. Basically it’s about patients who need help with problems such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, so they go to a psychiatrist named Irabu, who is kind of insane. He wears some weird costume, but changes between appearances. He can be a little kid or a cynical adult as well, however the patient usually never notices. Unlike most shows, Irabu treats males. Yes, males. No females. Holy crap, what is this? Actually it’s pretty amusing. The patients get themselves into trouble with their illnesses. In the end, the patients get over their illnesses and finish off the episodes happy. One more thing I like about this is that all the patients’ stories end up in other patient’s stories. For example, at the end of the series, Yuta is a patient who has an obsession over his cellphone. Later on, his father, Dr. Tsuda has his own kind of illness that is connected with his son. It is done so beautiful.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because… Some episodes are a hit or miss. All of them are entertaining but some more than others. Also, and this seems to be a big problem for everyone, is the random coloring and polka dots seen in every episode. That set off a lot of viewers away, calling it a trippy mindfuck. That doesn’t seem to be a problem for me, since it was easy to get use to by episode two, but it still leaves problems at times. Another problem is that some of the stuff gets confusing. Characters switch between being a cartoon to being a real person, Irabu’s appearance changing from time to time, and characters turning into animals after getting a shot from Irabu. Sometimes it’s obvious but other times you just don’t know.
7. Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei
Rumba > Bure > Ringo Migore Beam. But that does not mean Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei was bad at all. Like the seasons before it, Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei is pretty damn funny. It is a different comedy than shows like Cromartie High School of Full Metal Panic Fumoffu. It pokes fun at human everyday tendencies that I never really notice until after they mentioned them. The way they talk about them really blows my mind and makes me wonder how Koji Kumeta notices all of these. Another great thing about this show is that even though there are plenty of female characters, and just one main male character, there are still some other male characters out there so it sort of evens out.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…like Trapeze, it’s a hit or a miss. Some episodes leave me in stitches while other episodes are just okay. Another thing the show tends to do is use Chiri, and god I think I will be flamed for this, too much. Yes, her gimmick is that she kills people and fucks shit up but it sort of gets old. There is a huge cast and I’m glad they added even more, but you can use them you know.
6. Eden of the East/Higashi no Eden
I can already feel the hate I am getting for putting this not much higher on the list. People seem to like shows like Eden of the East. You know, like Highlander, Rozen Maiden, and Mirai Nikki. The whole, kill these people and you will grow stronger or gain something kind of story. I like those too. What’s great though is that the main character is pretty cool. Akira Takizawa is mysterious and interesting, but over that he seems like a fun person to hang out with. He has a dog with wings, his house is a fucking mall, and he wants to save NEETs. Wow. That’s cool man. The rest of the characters are alright, but Takizawa is just so cool. Besides the main plot, the mystery behind the whole Careless Monday is mindboggling, and with the powers of the Selecao, anything could happen. The show was also animated by Production I.G., who also animated Kimi ni Todoke. So you can bet the animation and visuals are great. In fact, they even got English voice actors for American characters. How the hell did they do that?
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…well, everyone can guess why. The show was too short. For a plot like Eden of the East, you need a lot of time to develop the characters and hype up the enemies. They managed to do half of that in eleven episodes, but all that did was make the audience want more. Of course, they will continue it but with two movies rather than another season. I guess this is different, but I just wish they didn’t make us need to wait. Not a big problem, but I don’t really like the faces of the characters. The thing on their nose is annoying and I just wanna rip whatever the hell it is off.
5. Sengoku Basara
Dear Production I.G., don’t stop being so great. Sengoku Basara is really a great show and appealing to those who like action. Usually when you think of samurai anime shows, or ones that based in feudal times, you just think stuff like…demons, legendary swordsmen, evil ruling empires taking over and stuff. Well guess what? THIS HAS…only the last one. The plot isn’t too terrific but the action is where it’s at. You got Date, a Six sword wielding maniac, Yukimura who…somehow…can attack with fire tornados, and Honda. Honda isn’t a main character or anything but Jesus, he’s a fucking mecha jet-packing warrior. HOW COOL IS THAT?! Also you got Oda. A villain voiced by Wakamoto, and if that isn’t evil enough for you, he drinks from skulls. Skulls. Yeah, he’s badass. Put characters like these together and you got kick ass fights in nearly every episode.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…not every episode has over the top fighting. Now that’s not a problem, but sometimes you are put off by the times they do not fight. Another thing is that sometimes during fights, the animators resort to sketch fights. Some people like it, but I don’t like it as much as others. The number one thing I just didn’t like is that the final battle had too much Date and Yukimura. It’s expected that they should fight Oda, but I wanted to see Maeda, Takeda, and even Uesugi with his ridiculous outfit do something. But no, they all were either injured or just not there when they could have helped.
4. Shin Mazinger Shougeki! Z-Hen
The mecha series of the year. Maybe this was not as good as Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann but it still kicked major ass. Kouji may be your typical shounen lead, but the rest of the characters are truly better characters than he will ever be. Tsubasa and Baron Ashura are some of the best characters I have ever seen. The background and development of their characters was phenomenal. The other characters are good too, a whole lot more original than most characters nowadays, but they are nothing compared to Tsubasa or Ashura. The action is great too but the plot and story is where the show really shines. Remind me to go watch/read more Go Nagai stuff.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…a couple things. First off, there was some kind of fad between anime shows where the first episode was some weird filler. Mazinger Z was no exception and the first episode put off some viewers while it fucked the minds of others. Really, was there a need to have that kind of episode? Another problem is…well, is it just me do the character’s mouths seem weird? Kind of nitpicky, but the art at times bugs me. Also Kouji sucks. By no means is he terrible, but compared to everyone else he is. At times I really just wish they would only show Kouji when he is fighting or giving more development towards Tsubasa.
3. Aoi Bungaku
Watch this. I don’t care what you like, go watch it. If you like romance, action, or comedy, go watch this. Does Aoi Bungaku have that? Maybe not, but just watch it. Aoi Bungaku basically is an animation of what could be live action shows. Thank God it was an anime so I can watch this magical piece of work. The animation is amazing (if only Madhouse can be this consistently good), the switch between artists is great, and the philosophy and thoughts behind each story is DEEEEEEEP. In all seriousness, I am not much of a hard thinker or mature at all, but I still love this show. It is just so different from everything else. When I watched this, I had no idea what I would be watching but it ended up being great. Each arc and story in the series holds a different purpose and story behind it.
The reason why this isn’t higher on the list is because…again, some stories are better than the others. No Longer Human, Kokoro, and Run, Melos are all really amazing. The Spider’s Thread and Hell Screen are fantastic. Cherry Blossoms, eh…wish it was a little bit more serious. The Nana Mizuki moe moments, random iPod and phone cameras moments, and the boar was just lame. Was there really a need to have those? I guess there is a deeper meaning within it, but I would not know.
2. Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood
If the Big 3 was the Big 4, FMA would be the fourth series. The ever so popular series of Full Metal Alchemist definitely lives up to its hype. Where can I start to talk on how great this series is? The characters are great, the story is amazing, and I have no problems with the animation at all. If I had to try and think right now, I really can not remember an anime that actually uses science in any way. How does Hiromu Arakawa do it? Did she have a major in chemistry or something? Either way, Fullmetal Alchemist really is truly amazing.
WHY THE HELL ISN’T THIS #1? I SHOULD KILL YOU FOR THIS!
Well it’s not because…I like the anime I put for #1 a whole lot more. The negative stuff I have to say for Fullmetal Alchemist are nitpicky bullshit such as, I prefer the dub way more than the sub. Or, the comedy parts at random times seem out of place and awkward. And, is it just me or is the art in Brotherhood more…round and bouncy than the kind at the original anime. Oh and I can’t forget…THIS ANIME HAS NO REWRITE. WHAT THE BLOODY HELL IS THIS SHIT? RAAAAAAAAAAAAAGE.
1. Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger
What did you expect? Akikan? Boxing is healthier than soda. I love Hajime no Ippo, top 5 series for me and it’s not surprise for someone like me to enjoy this as much. Hajime no Ippo has a different and more modern feel to it than the original series, something that was tough for me to get use to but it is still the same old Hajime no Ippo that I love. The characters are the same, the fights are magnificent and the opening is……crap compared to OP2 of the original but that does not matter.
Unlike the first anime, this focused a whole lot more on other characters such as Miyata, Date, and of course, Takamura. Ippo was really the whole center in the first anime, leaving matches that contained other characters to be quite short and summarized but now we get to see more of their matches. Also the series has an actual villainous heel and not just some other strong boxer that the main character must defeat. Bryan Hawk has to be one of the greatest heels, written wise and emotional wise. He has that attitude that makes you want to kill him. Disrespecting boxing and Japan itself, that is a motherfucking heel. Bryan Hawk is real villain in boxing; in fact he is a better villain than most anime villains. And the fight between the two, fan-fucking-tastic.
Some thing that really gives Hajime no Ippo a different vibe than most shows is that is has emotion. “Holy Jesus fuck, anime with emotion? C’mon, you just mean they are yelling right?” No, go jump off a cliff. Determination, determination, determination. That’s the keyword here. I know, sport anime shows are mainly about this but since this is boxing and has fights, it works double. I hear a few stories about Hajime no Ippo changing people, like their goals, or giving them some kind of motivation. For me, it motivates me to be a little bit more active. A long time dream of mine is to be a professional wrestler, and that is quite different than being a boxer but I still need to be physically in shape. I am thankful now for Hajime no Ippo and the motivation it has rubbed on me. By the way, I made an Ippo boxer in Fight Night Round 4, and he sucks ass.
Only problems I have with this show is the theme song, Kimura, and Kumi’s voice. Not big problems but I might as well talk about them. LAST ALLIANCE is a good band and all, but really, everyone knows OP2 kicks so much major ass. Why didn’t they just get something from the same people who made that? Kimura is my favorite between the four main boxers. He’s mature, collected, and pretty cool guy. His fight with Mashiba has to be one of my favorites. Sadly, he lost all his momentum after that match and becomes nothing worthy of praise any longer. As for Kumi’s voice…well, it’s just not as good as the original one. I don’t know, maybe I’m just use to it. Thinking about it, what the hell is up with Aoki’s hair?
Well that’s my Top 10 Anime Shows of the Year. Here are some honorable mentions:
Maria+Holic:
It was funny, had classic SHAFT animation, and the characters were great. However my only problem was that there was only a few times the show actually made me laugh. You know what would have made it really entertaining though? Asami Sanada as the boke and Miyuki Sawashiro as the tsukkomi in a manzai stand up.
Cross Game:
Another great show that could have been on the list. Looking at it, it seems like it’s just your standard baseball series. You have the main character who’s perfect, his friends who are good but not the best, and the girl who is great but can’t play. Yeah you got the stereotypes, but it is so much more than that. The show itself is entertaining with great humor, but sometimes I can see it not being my kind of show. The art of the characters is kind of bland and the pace of the show is sort of slow. A combination I don’t really like. That’s not to say it’s terrible, but it is just not for me.
Tokyo Magnitude 8.0.:
One of the most original premise for a show, and they handled it kind of well. Characters are realistic and well developed. However, I am not fond about some of the stuff in the series. We expected realism right? (again, lol realistic anime) But nothing major happened in the first beginning episodes. Oh yeah, people are starving, buildings collapsing, Tokyo Tower is falling, yeah that’s all great but nothing truly tragic. Then when Yuuki died, of course the viewers feel bad but I just got up from my seat and yelled out “FUCKING FINALLY SOMEONE DIED!” Finally the main characters got hit hard, now that’s some realism there. You can’t expect a plot like this to have a really happy feeling, fuck that. We want tears and sadness.
Chi’s New Address:
Beginning episodes is just your average kiddy stuff. Although the humor is quite good, but the end episodes just really touched me. Seriously, I nearly teared.
Spice & Wolf II:
To be honest, this was more exciting and enjoyable than the first season. I got nothing much else to say about this show though; it just was not as good as the shows above it.
Posted by MewMatic197 | Dec 31, 2009 2:49 AM | 1 comments