Private Entry
June 27th, 2016
Trashed thoughts
14. Mayoiga
After a five second deliberation with myself between this and Big Order sharing last place. Honestly it was pretty close race of which could hurt me more in a single episode, I even did an entire season worth of hate posting just to get through these two shows. Where do we stand? Obviously as you can see, Mayoiga is my pick for worst show I've watched this season. Enjoying the stupidity in this show is like laughing at a guy with Parkinson's play b-ball, it's just a mess. Even if I try to watch it as a intentional/unintentional campy comedy, it doesn't work cause it's so freaking boring, the characters talk forever... the arguing never reaches a conclusion... the shotgunned in one-liners makes me cringe... if it is a comedy, then exaggerate more, make it even more wacky, this show remains stagnant throughout it's entire run, the tension never raises, the emotion never hits like it's trying to be satirical or sad, even the standout characters like Lovepon, she never get's any crazier, she never mellows down, she's just this banshee girl that freaks out over a wind over her neck and that never changes. Skits get boring after you drag them too long. Watch Guilty Crown if you want an entertaining camp, a production team that actually cares about their production. Look at this show, do you think any love was put into it, no animation, lots of errors, they gave half a shit and so do I.
I have more to say, but you can probably tell what I thought through the posts I made.
13. Big Order
I doubt anyone expected this will be a good show, especially even in the OP the website is basically leeching off Mirai Nikki's infamy. Mediocre gory action series that isn't as edgy as it thinks itself to be, it's honestly really safe, it's a louder harem that thinks sex, blood and incestuous tones will attract the younger to adult crowd, judging by the sales this show has gotten. We should be good for a while for another Mirai Nikki rehash. Also 10 episodes is a quick slit of the wrists compared to Mirai Nikki, thank god.
12. Joker Game
Out of all the shows in this list, this is definitely the least entertaining one, maybe a tier higher than Mayoiga but that's all that I can muster to defend this show. I mean it started out bland with bland characters and continued treading it's episodic stories that are nothing but brain teasers, nothing about developing the spy we are following, no war commentary or even giving the audience to care what's going on in the war that we need to constantly retrieve stolen intel from double agents and sabotage other agencies. I know leaking intel would disclose their tactics and hidden technology but they don't tell me why I should care if they retrieve it or not? This is why the spy escaping the hideout and the murder of the enigma man was fun cause there are stakes. The animation for IG standards is pretty under average. Meh.
11. Re:Zero (cour 1)
Well no one warned me that Subaru is gonna be such an annoying twat, he's like if a fanfiction writer decides to write himself into a visual novel and so he could spout lame meta otaku nonsense out of his mouth.
Well what I think of this show? The day to day activities of Subaru is definitely not a very exhilirating experience. Well the times where there's action are few and far between. Well I have more to say, but since I'm not on the bandwagon I doubt people would care about my opinion, which is why I didn't post about it. Um I guess the girls are cute, I guess.
After a five second deliberation with myself between this and Big Order sharing last place. Honestly it was pretty close race of which could hurt me more in a single episode, I even did an entire season worth of hate posting just to get through these two shows. Where do we stand? Obviously as you can see, Mayoiga is my pick for worst show I've watched this season. Enjoying the stupidity in this show is like laughing at a guy with Parkinson's play b-ball, it's just a mess. Even if I try to watch it as a intentional/unintentional campy comedy, it doesn't work cause it's so freaking boring, the characters talk forever... the arguing never reaches a conclusion... the shotgunned in one-liners makes me cringe... if it is a comedy, then exaggerate more, make it even more wacky, this show remains stagnant throughout it's entire run, the tension never raises, the emotion never hits like it's trying to be satirical or sad, even the standout characters like Lovepon, she never get's any crazier, she never mellows down, she's just this banshee girl that freaks out over a wind over her neck and that never changes. Skits get boring after you drag them too long. Watch Guilty Crown if you want an entertaining camp, a production team that actually cares about their production. Look at this show, do you think any love was put into it, no animation, lots of errors, they gave half a shit and so do I.
I have more to say, but you can probably tell what I thought through the posts I made.
13. Big Order
I doubt anyone expected this will be a good show, especially even in the OP the website is basically leeching off Mirai Nikki's infamy. Mediocre gory action series that isn't as edgy as it thinks itself to be, it's honestly really safe, it's a louder harem that thinks sex, blood and incestuous tones will attract the younger to adult crowd, judging by the sales this show has gotten. We should be good for a while for another Mirai Nikki rehash. Also 10 episodes is a quick slit of the wrists compared to Mirai Nikki, thank god.
12. Joker Game
Out of all the shows in this list, this is definitely the least entertaining one, maybe a tier higher than Mayoiga but that's all that I can muster to defend this show. I mean it started out bland with bland characters and continued treading it's episodic stories that are nothing but brain teasers, nothing about developing the spy we are following, no war commentary or even giving the audience to care what's going on in the war that we need to constantly retrieve stolen intel from double agents and sabotage other agencies. I know leaking intel would disclose their tactics and hidden technology but they don't tell me why I should care if they retrieve it or not? This is why the spy escaping the hideout and the murder of the enigma man was fun cause there are stakes. The animation for IG standards is pretty under average. Meh.
11. Re:Zero (cour 1)
Well no one warned me that Subaru is gonna be such an annoying twat, he's like if a fanfiction writer decides to write himself into a visual novel and so he could spout lame meta otaku nonsense out of his mouth.
Well what I think of this show? The day to day activities of Subaru is definitely not a very exhilirating experience. Well the times where there's action are few and far between. Well I have more to say, but since I'm not on the bandwagon I doubt people would care about my opinion, which is why I didn't post about it. Um I guess the girls are cute, I guess.
Posted by kyonJIE | Jun 27, 2016 6:29 AM | 0 comments
March 2nd, 2016
kyonJIE's 40 Favourite Anime
*Click pictures for anime profiles, add them to your plan to watch, why the heck not?
*List will get updated as I watch more shows
#40 Barakamon (2014) [Kinema Citrus] <Manga>
Certainly lacking in any sort of drama, sure. Slice of life episodic nonsense, that is definitely the case. So is it boring? Not really, well for me anyway. A story of a dishonored calligrapher flees from the city to the rural country side of wacky towns people. Yes that cliche, the countryside is the easiest way of life, the funnest way to live. Although we city folk can probably wish to imagine the comradely and hospitality of the fantasy country side that doesn't exist because of the recluses we are. This is tailor-made escapism with a charming casts of characters doing mundane shit that is somehow eerily fascinating. You see the city people freaking out over the simpler ways of life, getting up close and personal with the terrifying embrace of nature. Lovely. Especially for Naru, that adorable little shit.
#39 Mob Psycho 100 (2016) [Bones] <Manga>
This show is the pinnacle of how style can elevate a show from good to amazing. What you expect to be a formulaic superhero story of defeating baddies is more than that, it's a tale of adolescence, a coming of age, one that involves a little bit of eccentricities. A story of just another boy, but this boy has something special in an otherwise normal city. A freaky characteristic to wield psychic powers with no limit in what he could accomplish or destroy. Although with such powers, he does not become the idealised superhero we come to expect, life isn't about the fame and glory for the boy who just wants to make a meaningful middle school life to make friends, impress a girl he likes and joining clubs for eh.. body improvement? We almost forget he is a psychic till his routine visits to his "mentor", as he learns various principles in handling his powers... A wacky, unconventional style that leaves you dismayed after the experience of pure entertainment. Not just a story of defeating the baddies at the end of the day but maybe waking up the next day being a better person than you were yesterday
#38 Psycho Pass (2012) [Production IG] <Original>
Production IG splash back into a sci-fi thriller that was not a Guilty Crown, hailed by acclaimed or most controversial writer Gen Urobuchi well for most of the show and funnily enough sucked after he was not in commission for season 2. A dystopian Tokyo filled with heinous crimes from the totalitarian rule of the Sibyl System as the police bureau use the system to hunt down latent criminals by analysing their stress levels. We follow our officers and explore the flaws of the Sibyl system as a means of crime detection as well as realizing character moral ain't so black or white. High production values and the amount of badassery of just the awe of that dominator splicing people to bits. Pretty exhilarating ride with enough psychological horror and gore to serve a spot in my favourites. Also waiting for a dub for that movie so I won't get ear cancer from the engrish.
#37 Neon Genesis Evangelion / Rebuilds (1995) [Gainax] <Original>
I conclude Shinji is not a bitch contrary to what people had said. I wish I could have liked this '90 classic more than I had, Anno's spiral into depression has amalgamated into an clusterfuck of a series as an ode to the classic mecha genre. Housing one of the most psychologically damaged individuals at their impending doom fighting against the Angels using the souls of the children's mothers (both are not what they seem). As a character study, it is quite powerful as the setting is more of a theatrical stage for all of the character to spill their guts out, the reacquiring theme is acceptance and opening up your heart to people, which can really apply to a lot of us. It can be a frustrating watch for sure with very sour characters, convoluted sci-fi nonsense and ridiculous plot holes. Not exactly thrilling rewatch material but as a action show, it is one of the best with majestic fight scenes by brilliant animators which is why I kind of like the rebuilds even though they are not holding up to the fans very high pedestal. Gainax does magic with this imperfect gem.
#36 Katanagatari (2010) [White Fox] <Light Novel>
The show has lots to say but never means what it says with what seem to be straightforward story of a girl and her sword, collecting the twelve perfected swords for reasons to be vaguely explained. Every episode features a nice little rendezvous at a sword wielder's destination, we will throw around some mythology and backstories while we're here, then fight scenes lambasted by more dialogue about their style of fighting and skills. The show shouldn't have worked but that was not the case as the dialogue was witty and the fights brings character towards the fighters as their style of fighting represents their personality and life virtues. Super wordy and the length might not be everyones taste, but the snappy direction and character acting helps with that. Honestly you don't need to pay to much attention cause most information is recited back or that important shit is dramatized by character reactions anyway. Probably most of the reason it's a favourite is the two main characters banters and interactions are one of the most realistic portrayals of love in anime.
#35 My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU 2 (2015) [Brains Base/Feel] <Light Novel>
Embracing people's feelings can be painful, that is certainly the case with this show by my favourite light novel author Wataru Watari with his touch on delivering his message is especially poignant. A coming of age school slice of life show that is both funny, sad and bitter. Witty dialogue and an abundance of cynicism is the heart of the show, thrown into a club for all intends of purposes is to help those in need while make friends or say aquaintances along the way. The drama resonates with problems dealing with well fitting in, loving yourself and accepting people's kindness and yourself, all those adolescent struggles. As in the hedgehog's dilemma, We seclude from one another so we won't hurt each other. Is it better to keep it to yourself? A hand reaches forward, will you take the chance? It might not seem easy, but we will make it.
#34 Eden of the East (2009) [Production IG] <Original>
So outlandish in its execution, ambitious premise: saving Japan's economic stagnation. The chibi character designs, high production values, throw in a death game with intellectual tactics involved. You know I'm going to love it. For a psychological death game to have such a charming personality to it, the anomalous Takizawa Akira, to the shoujo emotion bubbles, a supercomputer that feels more human than the world surrounding it, stands apart from the dark and dreariness of the genre. Not to say its cartoonny style takes away from the actual meat, 12 supporters with absolute power are trying to save Japan after all. In capitalist Japan were prevalent issues that comes from the separation of the people of power against the weak, which includes the youth, woman, elderly and the NEETs. It shall be the king to be the savior of Japan. An intriguing mystery/conspiracy story that dives into societies dilemmas. It maybe didn't dive deep enough to be completely profound and the product is not perfect, it's still intriguing fun.
#33 5 Centimeters per Second (2007) [CoMix Wave Films] <Original>
I love how effortlessly it depicts character development and drama during the first act, Makoto Shinkai is truly a visionary when it comes to how to tell a story through the animation medium, if I mute the whole show, it would work as a silent movie. However who could do that with Tenmon's fantastic score, in context gives so many emotions of both love and melancholy. A simple story of lost connection over the years and moving on from the past is absolutely stunning, yes that is a screenshot of the movie, crazy isn't it. Although a perspective from Akane's side would have helped the movie flesh out its narrative more. However the ambiguity of the ending still works as a bittersweet taste of reality. If your a fan of animation at all, you owe it to yourself to see this even if it is not your cup of tea.
#32 Ouran High School Host Club (2006) [Bones] <Manga>
I may not be in the demographic, but this is one fine shipping anime, it's so fluffy and brainless, it's just really dumb, I guess that's a good thing. Everyone is characterised by tropes, a school filled with pathetic snobs, all girls wants to ride the hosts dicks, as well as the host club being bat shit insane and pretty much obsessive over Haruhi. I guess the only thing you can say about the characters about is "cute" (the ost is pretty fantastic). They do have their backstories and other rich peoples problems distracting themselves being oddball womanizers. It really shines when they are just being silly for silly's sake and being self-aware on it's nonsense is praise worthy enough. Very spastic direction, not to mention the intense shoujo style, it's definitely for a certain taste. Although some people see this as a subversion of the reverse harem genre, well I guess it's not toxic to women so yeah if that's the sentiment.
#31 Bokura ga Ita (We Were There) (2006) [Artland] <Manga>
I present my favourite shoujo school romance anime, not the flashiest one but a very competent one. I doubt anyone has heard of this show, so here's an endorsement to maybe watch the anime. The show is based on an award winning manga of the same name and you can tell why. It's very mature for a shoujo romance, it's not the usual manipulative female fantasy of creating a bishounen harmen. How creating a relationship that is dysfunctional, frustrating and promiscuous can be the most realistic one, gasp. A story not shying away death and the trauma surrounding it. Well developed characters, drama that is attributed to character flaws and conflicts and never asspulls out of it. I feel that this manga has become an influence to shoujos like Ao Haru Ride and Orange. Do yourself a favor if you watched the anime and read the manga ~chap 32 > it's worth it.
#30 Un-Go (2011) [Bones] <Novel>
Not something you'll see in many people's favourites list, I think this is quite underrated. During an lukewarm period of bones with the less than spectacular sequels and moderate output during 2011, this might slip through people's radar, especially that it is not the most flashiest of shows. Enter Un-Go a psychological mystery thriller where a detective and his "monster" goes around the ruined city as they solve crimes and uncover the truths. Boy do the cases turn to be intriguing set pieces, I have no idea how Bones manage to transfer stories from the Meiji era into the 21st century and add (I think) original elements of cyberpunk and social media. The censorship of information and media due to the terror of the city is fascinating to witness as the government make sure to keep the wars as quiet as possible. The series does go into some magical elements, with both Inga and God with the power to search for the absolute truth and the power to fabricate it to foil. But as the show says "people hold many truths to hold their existence, thus we lie" so we will never know what is the real truth they bare.
#29 Terror in Resonance (2014) [MAPPA] <Original>
A genuinely thrilling anime thriller, what incarnation is this?! Alright to be honest, I wasn't really impressed with this show the first go around, hype is a dangerous thing and the lacking in realism especially when Five shows up threw me off a little. To be honest, who cares about realism in anime? We already have two teenage boys terrorising Japan with actual bombs, I don't think our suspension of disbelief is really set low here. Something that really fascinates me about the show is that it has a clear concise message that Japan needs to wake up and realise the issues that lie within it's borders that is hidden by the corrupt government and how are they gonna create this revolution? Shake it up with some explosions, hell ya! For an 11 ep series, it gets through all development needed in a way that never feels rushed, the characters have motivations and characteristics that fit the narrative, you don't need perfect characters that always does the right thing, it manages to hold realism that way. I see it now Watanabe, through all the high production values.
#28 Kaiba (2008) [Madhouse] <Original>
It's setting is so obviously cyberpunk but the cartoony artstyle is certainly deceiving as some light and fluffy adventure, how wrong I was. Kaiba has a strong dystopian sci-fi foundation with an interesting world where people's souls and memories can be transferred to obtain immortality are a luxury for the high social class while their bodies are now a disposal entity, where food is free and is on the face a perfect utopia. However beneath the clouds, therein holds the dysfuntional society as the corruption and exploitation of the rich have left the poor struggling to survive and feed themselves, as desperate people sneak above the clouds to find a better life, selling their memories to buy shoes for their children or joining a terrorist cult to avenge their parents death. The plot takes a while to finally spins its wheels and our amnesia protaganist isn't gonna be the most interesting person in the world. But each episodes story has a point in worldbuilding while delivering touching themes that deals with family, love and memories. Experience this crazy world yourself.
#27 Guilty Crown (2011) [Production IG] <Original>
What happens when you mix macross and evangelion while doing everything wrong on what makes them good, you get this monstrosity, the insanity that keeps getting better at every rewatch. It's so ridiculous that it feels like a satire towards every anime particularly the more ingrained tropes of the medium, you get your pop-idols, angsty/whinny teens, omnipotent villians, garbage science, death of love interest to drive character motivations, sexually objectified women, beach episodes, transfer students, childhood friend bonanza, countless references to Code Geass and Evangelion and crank the stupidity up eleven notches higher. A trainwreck in every sort of way but it is never unentertaining. Shu suddenly becomes Stalin and reigns over the school, measuring the students power levels for the disdain of the students and ultimately being annihilated by a deux ex machinna is the funniest thing ever. By camp definition of deliberate and self acknowledged theatricality, shows wish to be as over-the-top as guilty crown.
#26 Chihayafuru (2011) [Madhouse] <Manga>
In honor of chihayafuru, I played my version of karuta using poker cards and a random card generator, shit is dangerous, nearly smashed my computer a few times. Most sports anime revolve around chasing for a newer purpose in life, finding your aspiration and the fruit of effort after the relentless and painstaking sowing. This show's no different and changing the scene with an obscure cultural pastime, known as karuta. A young woman with a beautiful face, mediocre grades and oblivious personality who's only goal at the point of time, "play karuta". She and childhood friend 1 establish the karuta club. Typical right? Yeah it is the redundant sports anime plotline, get recruits, team bonding, meet stronger challengers, meet new rivals, learn new skills, throw in that romance subplot while we're at it.... However, madhouse somehow made it work being an inspirational journey with a whole lot of pain that comes with it. Karuta ain't a walk in a ball park with opponents that has realisticly supernatural skills of, hawk eyes, extrasensory hearing and locust fast reaction speeds. It plays with the emotions, it is japanese storytelling after all.
#25 Cross Game (2009) [Synergy SP] <Manga>
I may not be able to get behind watching sports if they are a sword clashing battlefield as most people do, but a sports anime with it's main priority being a coming of age romance, then yes I'm invested. This show has times when they have drastic tonal shifts for comedic effect. Alright it's funny everytime they do that, it's suppose to be a lighthearted coming of age story after all, no melodrama in sight for sure. Teenage life can't get as real and ships can't get as endearing with a collection of characters, all bounded together by their love for baseball as well as the friendship they develop together. All romance stories should have happy and sad moments, with a death of a character ingrained into the story, this crosses turbulent waters but always settles with a resolution. Likable characters throughout well except for the antagonists which your suppose to hate and not to mention that some of the baseball matches had my teeth sinking into my skin.
#24 FLCL (2000) [Gainax/Production IG] <Original>
This show is quite the anomaly, a creator whose only vision is to make it as fun as possible to himself, an unconventional downright ludicrous story which people have rewatched countless times and still don't get, I mean you live in a world where forehead boners that turn into mechas and a vagabond on a Vespa searching for her pirate king. Endless debates on whether "Fooly Cooly" has any deeper meaning than just mindless gibberish. FLCL thrives itself of its exemplary identity and iconic flair that blends the kickback style of rock music while blending in it's most touching theme of growing up and accepting life as what it is, that is why Naota constantly shuns away while conversely wants to embrace Haruko, he is running away from maturity while relinquishes the pleasures of rebelling out of his childishness, don't we all? It is primarily a coming of age story, one that could have been more cohesive in a transitional sense as Naota's character is never constant. However, when the themes of FLCL blossom, you have to look past the leaves and the thorns to smell the flowers. It is fun to watch and fun to analyse.
#23 Samurai Flamenco (2013) [Manglobe] <Original>
Everyone's a flawemco. Heroism is not a job but it is in our blood. We want some excitement in our boring lives, canned in our perception of realism, realising dreams about saving the world is not rectifiable in the real world. However, what if one day suddenly your world of normalcy is turned upside down and you can play superhero all you want for trillions of years. I'm ahead of myself here. Superheroes are always a admiration for Masayoshi as he hasn't grown up from his superhero dreams, he dawns Samurai Flamenco and scouts the neighbourhood for any petty umbrella thieves and litterbugs. Does this satisfy our hero's urges, why not create the fantasy he always dreams of, fighting monsters, mutants, doesn't that seem like fun? Samurai Flamenco pays homage and examines the evolution of the superhero genre and heroism itself in our society. Despite the mess it might have appeared, it has a heart knows full well of its insanity and stands by it.
#22 Kids on the Slope (2012) [MAPPA] <Manga>
Jazz is about the improvisation, syncopation and the irregular rhythms, it's not about following the notes, it's about getting into the groove of the beat, allowing yourself to the freedom of expression through the notes. The unpredictability, the chaotic but structured melody, this is what these struggling teenagers are facing from the uphill slope of their lives. As we are forced to conform to societal constructs, how we are not suppose to do certain things, or shaming certain behavior and individual characteristics. These teens want to act out, to express themselves, away from the eyes of others, closed off from the outside world, in a basement where they perform their jazz sessions and express their discontent and experience freedom of their emotions. This show feels timeless, it's almost like a memoir of the struggles of adolescence, figuring out your path, freedom, love, and yourself.
#21 The Tatami Galaxy (2010) [Madhouse] <Novel>
Gah Masaaki Yuasa, this is beautiful, evocatively spectacular in how the narrative plays out as the cycles retreads the same struggles, failures and disappointments as one would as they play their life out wondering which path will create the rose-coloured dream you wished for. Enter Watashi (me), you got your whole life in your hands, you have only one shot make it count, well unless a gigantic reset button could tell you otherwise. Inside the tatami galaxy has some delightfully wacky but human characters, as they tear you down and build you back up and builds your character bit by bit. Life never seems to go the way you expect, you always seem to get into some crazy shenanigans, finding the allusive horseshoe scrubber, a doll mannequin bodyguard, being swept into a pyramid scheme or paving new grounds for bicycle aeronautics. But that's not what you want, the rose-coloured campus life is such a fantasy as you slowly wither away as though destiny is against you. However a fortune teller will always bring into mind that opportunity is right in front of you, you just need to reach out and grab it. No matter what road you take, you'll just have to make the best out of it.
#20 Cowboy Bebop (1998) [Sunrise] <Original>
I saved this anime classic for a long time in my PTW, anxious to my opinion to this supposed anime masterpiece. To my surprise it is more of an episodic romp, a very fun romp I might add. There are also some instances of emotional poignancy displayed in some of the episodic stories. Each story has its own distinguishing feature whether its it drama, comedic or wack whatever that weed story was, and most of them are done exceedingly well. Well sure enough when it came down to putting on the list, it's quite hard to comprehend my thoughts on it, because it is definitely a show I could watch about 100 times over and not get bored with, its influential cast, breakneck pacing and hilarity. The sci-fi elements are more of a backdrop though, but it definitely more resemble a western action flick, with the titular character basically being Jet Li + Jackie Chan. It's an amalgamtion of influences, this is why it is so distinctive. Every rewatch brings new depth to the series and sure enough, this series is very solid. In every aspect, to the fluid action animation, the iconic soundtrack, the crew etc. I can gush over a lot of aspects of the show, but it should be experienced for every fan of anime.
#19 Kill La Kill (2013) [Trigger] <Original>
Imaishi had made a name for himself, making shows that are bigger and grander than life, intense action, explosive personality and insane characters. Along with his distinctive brash style of intense cuts and stylistic frames. I'm not dive far into his directing work, but I do know I really liked kill la kill. Coming of age never felt so colossal since Dragonball Z, the world feels loud and dynamic helped with the ost that each impact frame feels like a hiroshima bomb each time. It is an exceptional shounen action series. Maybe a slightly cooky one, with clothes dictating your social standing in a fascist society and maybe fighting against some alien human evolution life form. Basically the setting is complete madness, the plot sometimes spiral into the bizarre, damn Nudist Beach. However it makes sense, the themes are simple, the character stories are interesting, it twists and turns, it's just hold together with a whole bunch of crazy glue. One thing I didn't expected however was the characters, they are some off the most bubbly, charismatic, fabulous, likable, eccentric.... (a whole lot of + adjectives), I would love to hang out with them. Also love the in-jokes that makes fun of itself at how campy it is. Well it's up to you if the gratuitous fanservice is tolerable
#18 Wolf's Rain (2003) [Bones] <Original>
A slow burner, yes. A bishoujo roadtrip story FFXV style, yes. Immersive world building, yes. Leaves an impression months after watching this shit, abso-freaking-lutely. This show is haunting, it's imagery, the heavy atmosphere of the near apocalyptic wolf eat wolf world, the nihilistic last of humanity that had given up on the world. Really you continue watching like a Disney ride seeing the despair overcome the world while 4 bishoujos who are some of the few wolves that are thought to be extinct from the world search for the prophesied paradise. Through the destitute cities and desolate landscapes, we travel with these wolves, sometimes with some of our human brethren, as they find a sanctuary in the last moments of the world. Wolf's Rain has some of the most chilling imagery of any anime I've seen, it really sticks while you ponder on the futility of life while all the depressing shit keeps happening in this terrible world. The entire show is just a giant quest to find a purpose of identity, whether love, revenge, trust, happiness, etc. As it explores the human condition in the event where all hope has been completely drained. Chock full of religious and mythological allegories that are fun to read about. Which to be honest, really isn't needed to enjoy the show but extra content to play around with later. The machiavellian climax which ties the knot on an incredible dystopian narrative, along with an ending that is incredibly compelling. Wolf's Rain is an anime that is a must-watch. Especially for its amazing soundtrack.
#17 Full Metal Panic Franchise (2002) [Gonzo/Kyoto Animation] <Light Novel>
I love the FMP franchise, which has been elevated by reading through both the light novels and manga versions. I adore the cast of characters both in the school and military side. They may seem stereotypical at first glance, but they develop to become actual humans with aspirations and lifestyles outside of the battlefield. The first season might get a little awkward as they jump from serious to school comedy in a snap, but they amended this problem with the following seasons. The side story of fumoffu is seriously one of the best anime comedies out there, with the slapstick being super creative and skips with good comedic timing. On the other hand TSR is a serious war drama with Sousuke introspecting on what it means to be a man of war while Kaname finds herself in a dangerous situation and and she's not gonna stand for it. Its versatility as a comedy and war drama is applaudable and hope to see what's gonna happen to the franchise in the future. Side note: I hope that the alledged new FMP adaptation for the studio will adapt the ending day by day novels, cause it's fucking intense, just picturing it makes me shiver
#16 Black Lagoon (2006) [Madhouse] <Manga>
Brutal, unforgiving, offensively brash with the right amount of insanity too, Black Lagoon is the most extravagant piece of popcorn entertainment of blind massacres, psychotic mannerisms and wacky action. The Lagoon Company, a pirate mercenary unit are thrown into missions of the absurd, they ain't complaining, whatever makes them a quick buck in a shit town in South East Asia, where back alley crimes run deep, cock your guns, it's gonna get bloody quick. Black Lagoon is like a grease fire, it just takes one slip up and it turns into a shitstorm with the aftermath in totality is completely incinerated with as much gruesome violence as you can imagine with the R rating attatched to it. The Revy and Rock dynamic also makes the experience hold ground with Rock being the everyman of the situation which creates a levity in an immoral society and is not a pushover himself while Revy is a batshit insane gunslinger that has pottymouth of a truck driver that treats killing as her second instinct. All in all, this is some fine western pandering here.
#15 Garo: Honoo no Kokuin (2014) [MAPPA] <Original>
Studio MAPPA has an impressive track record since appearing to the scene in 2012 with famous director Shinchiro Watanabe establishing the studio's baby steps. Now they have always brought something innovative to the table with their productions, to '90s style battle shounen, to original concepts, to psychological thrillers. In fall 2014 they brought out two versions of medieval fantasy action airing at the same time, while majority prefer the other one being more flashy cinematically, the tonkatsu drama adaptation in my opinion is much more captivating in storytelling while still delivering the epicness in a ruthless uncaring world of Garo. A world of horrors which consume the fragility of the human mind engulfing them into their evil incarnations. Where there is evil, there is a savior and those are the Makai Knights & Makai Priests, who go and slay these horrors to protect the people. Sadly the civillisation has been brainwashed by the king's advisor as demons and witches and are banished. However this thankless role still needs to be done. We follow a father son duo as they fight the evil horrors, meet new subordinates, grow ip and realise what they are fighting for in this ruthless world. It is glorious.
#14 Tiger & Bunny (2011) [Sunrise] <Original>
The show is just so cool, it has style in all the right ways, that it is not just riding of it predominantly but has a continuous story that develops. In a apparent neo-Tokyo where the superhero world has turned into a corporate buisness reality show where the superhero's have their costumes emblazoned with sponsor logos as heroism has become a money and entertainment goldmine. Crime fighting has become a new fad while the Next are being discriminated against by the general populace, moreover being put onto the big screens for peoples entertainment and the people upstairs make sure the cash continues to rake in by any means necessary. Fun and exhilarating, as the game show is fast paced along with that soundtrack and watching Kotetsu and Barnaby's antics are really fun. Along with the squad of superheroes that are just enjoyable on their own. Kotetsu gives life to the series, he's such a charmer and down to earth, you just want to root for him the entire series. He's just a man with a family to go home to after all.
#13 Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) [Ghibli] <Manga>
Environmentalist Anti-War Ghibli Ver. I is absolutely marvelous. The scale of the this fantasy epic is absolutely admirable, especially when dealing with a colossal story spanning several warring nations and a world that leaves you immersed in it's other worldly beauty. Flourishing atmosphere that builds with our protaganist wander through the alluring landscapes as we learn through the eyes Miyazaki's vision and message. An anti-war story that never chooses a side or beats you in with the morality mallet, it let's you interpret yourself as we see the stories from their view as we are allowed to question that maybe no one needs to be right, in a battle between human vs nature. Filled with impressive characters that never chooses stand on the scale of hero or villian as they act within their own ideal self-interests. Strong independent female heroines that I applaud. Nausicaä will leave you gobsmacked in it's grand epic of poignant introspection.
#12 Princess Mononoke (1997) [Ghibli] <Original>
Environmentalist Anti-War Ghibli Ver. II just is damn epic maybe smaller in scale compared to Nausicaä but equally intense maybe a bit more focused. Princess Mononoke is a simple tale of mountainous proportions of many stories, a love story, the lives of the villagers and animals, the adventures of Ashitaka as he sets out to destroy hate. Now with such a grand tale in the eyes of Ashitaka as he forms alliances between the humans and the beasts to settle a dispute of the two kinds. Neither side is painted as the villian, as they do not portray either side as evil beings out to destroy for malign reasons, you could understand their rational to maintain peace in the conflict. While in graceful Ghibli fashion, it has one of the most kickass heroines to appear in an anime in a form of a half wolf girl. Animation looks as expected for Ghibli films, fantastic even for today's standards. A soundtrack that exudes epicness (the only suitable word). A fantasy world that is as well fleshed out as the characters surrounding it while giving an exciting twist to the tired human vs savage trope.
#11 Welcome to the NHK (2006) [Gonzo] <Novel>
Ah that was depressing, but still incredibly optimistic. Enter the NHK and you can't escape, you have no mouth but you must scream, had reached the lowest point of your life, an otaku, a hikkikamori, a trash to the public. That's what they think, useless, paranoid, insecure, unable to arrive to the standard, they lock themselves away from the world, away from the judgemental eyes of the public, till they spiral further into darkness affecting their family and friends. Quite the heavy issue here in a competitive society where profession and grades deems a person's value, but that doesn't matter if you can find your on happiness, NHK is about Satou's story, as a strange girl helps Satou rehabilitate and assimilate back into society to cure of his hikkikamori and pull him out of the NHK conspiracy. Heavy themes of depression, suicide & death, sex, social anxiety and sex is present so this show is certainly is not a jolly good time, but they do light up with some dark humor of Satou's inability in interacting into society. It's not the prettiest show but for it's message as a motivation for people who are going through tough times, it's really a must-watch.
#10 Space Battleship Yamato 2199 (2013) [Xebec/AIC] <Manga>
As the humanity's hope of existence dwindles in the face of the genocidal massacre of their kind by what is to be an intellectual species of conquest are near critical stages. The Yamato, a battleship fitted with the capsule and key to humanity's salvation that would traverse through the galaxy in search of a planet known as Iscander which will bring upon the restoration of Earth and the last hope for humanity. However, it isn't such smooth sailing for the Yamato as they face upon their enemy in grand space shoot-outs as the Yamato and it's crew continue it's Hero's journey. This is one of the most fleshed out narratives I've seen in anime, the wars between the three species never come across as heavily sided against the humans in the wars, sure we want the humans to win but we never saw the Gamillas as prevalently evil but settles for a morally grey area and never goes overly incessantly in self pity over on humanity's side. Not to mention it is also a character driven narrative with the crew of the Yamato as they provide subtle world building and vignettes of development to almost all the cast. I find it remarkable as it drives in the emotional impact during the trials the Yamato faces. It hits the kokoro many times and a satisfying journey as they pushing forward with even a sliver of hope.
#09 Princess Tutu (2002) [Hal Film Maker] <Original>
This is a masterpiece of storytelling, taking the common fairytales of Hans Christian Anderson and subverting them into Shakespearean conventions, it makes for a fantastical version of Romeo & Juliet but with a duck as the titular character. It may look like a kids show and it is definitely is one. However, this show is quite cheeky and constantly subverts your expectations of the show. It is not a clear battle of good vs evil, with the puppetmaster of the show being an ambivalent omnipotent being that you will never expect. It is quite complex for a kids show. There are many interesting character studies with each of the cast which are integral to the plot about prima ballerinas trying to win the "heart" of a lost prince, the "heart" that he has lost to save his people. A story about a duck wanting to fall in love with a prince, but she is just a duck. Until some power made the story come true and she will have to collect pieces of the princes' heart. She thus will meet multiple people and help them with their insecurities by turning into Princess Tutu, along the way meet new foes but many more friendhips along the way. In this majestic tale of optimism and tribulations in this non-conventional lovingly crafted work that I marathoned through, cause it was just so engrossingly lovely.
#08 Hyouka (2012) [Kyoto Animation] <Novel>
Well you guys could have Your Lie In April's manic pixie dream girl, I'll take my ~kininarimasu thank you. Hyouka is a special show, made with love and care towards every character no matter how minor. Delivering the essence of growing up filled with struggles of love, talent, friendship and insecurities. From Oreki being dragged out of his grey box towards a rose-coloured life by the pixie girl, to Satoshi and Mayaka realizing their inferior talent, even the pixie girl has her struggles, Growing up is hard, they know it too. Mature in its execution, beautiful direction, this is kyoto animation's magnum opus with their formula. Detailing the curiosities of life and peek into the joys of the mundane. This show feels like a piece of literature, subtle and poignant, every rewatch brings out more to the characters and story, it truly is a classic. This is one of the most relatable coming of age stories to come out of the medium.
#07 Planetes (2003) [Sunrise] <Manga>
They love space, so did the people who made it. Our lovable collection of space debris cleanup crew do well to put it in simple terms, slice of life activities in space, crazy hijinks, relationships, workplace drama, well ya know sitcom stuff. It's hilarity gold. You can't get anymore epic than crashing a space probe through a satelight to alter its parabola and stop a terrorist act of destruction just for a smoke. The show have it's craziness but always tones it down for the serious moments, from human drama to geopolitics, lots of variety here. They seemlessly mastered a weekly episodic story that could switch between funny to serious that maintains a coherent episodic plot. Having said that, the second half features a huge tonal shift with the monopoly of space resources creates massive divides in social classes and escalates to an all out war. Meanwhile, our favourite headband wearing hero goes on his selfish quest to conquer space even for the sake of his co-workers and friends, while the show proclaims "space is too vast to go alone". If that doesn't work out, you can't go wrong with an adorably awkward canon couple right? The word grand is fitting for this anime.
#06 Wolf Children (2012) [Madhouse/Studio Chizu] <Original>
You'll need your soul-lightening disney-esque movie once in a while, one to give you hope and alleviate some of the tension in your life, like a quick endorphin injection. Hell it might have some cries and tears sprinkled in, well doesn't that make the happy times more worth it. Enter wolf children, a single mother having to take care of two wolf children, as she figures out how to deal with raising two children by herself while faces problems regarding that they are also wolves. While Hana finds her happiness, raising her children in the countryside and working hard to support them. The children's side is even more fascinating as they choose their lives on whether to become a normal human and blend into society or remain as a wolf and embrace their animalistic side in well told magical coming of age story. Not to mention Hosada (the Japenese Walt Disney) cause he is renowned for his directing skills as shown with his other family themed work Summer Wars, but feel good stories don't get much better than Wolf Children in my opinion.
#05 Clannad After Story (2008) [Kyoto Animation] <Visual Novel>
Ah clannad, oh how I love after story especially from ep 8-22. I know clannad feels overrated cause it was hyped by the key/kyoani pairing and being key's best story ever told. I can see the flaws of the series, it's a generic harem, solving conflicts that has no ties to the narrative: Fuko, Kotomi. When it's not doing generic slapstick slice of life, it's melodrama city. The script is just messy trying to connect arcs together while adding magical elements to it. I get that and of course I'm not gonna say that the episodes mentioned justify this series acclaim, but whatever love is always right. Tomoya and Nagisa's relationship has been a main part of clannad's story, their development throughout high school into adulthood, is incredibly engrossing as they leave school, find jobs, live together, struggle with existentialism issues, tying up the knots of past troubles, maternity struggles, dreams and sacrifices. However everything is fine as long as you have someone to lean on especially with people you love, that's what this show is screaming. It's sad at times, it's happy too, life can't say it better.
#04 Concrete Revolutio: Superhuman Phantasmagoria (2015) [Bones] <Original>
Are you still singing? The last serenade of the spirit of revolution in this adult world where we accept that justice is grey, that there is no such thing as true justice, we were told to accept the unjustifiable actions of the fraudulent government, hate crimes, prevalent racism, etc, as part of the norm and we are not in parse to complain and just continue believing that partial correctness and suppress our voice. This show replicates the struggle for true justice in the real world, by subverting the ideas of justice in a story where, superhumans, yokai, robots, monsters, aliens, etc live in the same universe as they drive in themes of justice that are applicable to the real world. Not to mention the countless pop culture refrences and throwbacks to the 60s and 70s, the Mai Lai Massacre, the Sapporo Winter Olympics, especially towards Sentai and Tonkatsu superhero stories. Truly original, truly inspired and completely cohesive in its message. It is a flawed masterpiece and I'm grateful for that. Not to mention, it's got style, look at those 60s inspired saturated colorful pop art aesthetics.
#03 Mawaru Penguindrum (2011) [Brains Base] <Original>
Another family themed anime. This time by master director Ikuhara which reminds me I should dive into Utena, well since his other yuri show wasn't really my taste. Penguindrum is fun to watch, fun to think about and a very poignant journey to follow. The world can be a cruel an unfair place, with tragedy and suffering coming upon innocent lives with unjust consequences. However, what if you can change this fate, the power of the penguindrum and create a miracle at any cost. Telling a story of a dysfunctional household as their youngest child becomes terminally ill when a magical hat brings her back to life. As the child's alter ego proclaims that the brothers shall obtain the penguindrum in exchange for the youngest child's life. While also exploring different very flamboyant characters on how a certain incident caused their families to drift apart and their mission to correct their unjust fate. The show has some very intricate stylings and gratuitous amounts of visual storytelling and references that it is impossible to pick up all of it. However in a narrative perspective outside it's theatrics, the show is incredibly extensive in it's story and touching. Nevertheless I adore Ikuhara's vision here, it's super compelling.
#02 From The New World (2012) [A-1 Pictures] <Novel>
From the list, you know I like my dystopias, the horror of the seemingly ordinary as the habitants wander through the depths of the broken society churned out from meticulous control, government and fear towards its citizens. A seemingly quiet and serene folk town in Japan where life has been made easier with psychokinetic powers, the children go to school, play by the rice fields and go on pleasant camping trips. However as the first episode illustrates the catastrophe that has brought upon the human race due to the new power and as we unfold new truths about this strange town, the more unsettling the experience is. As the children reads fairytales that is referenced to the horrors of humanity to stories of children disappearing in schools. It's ominous tone carries throughout as we continue to uncover more secrets about the society. The world building is some of the most captivating development I've ever seen, maybe some more active protaganists would have helped. However that doesn't detract from the exquisite world that was created with a mastermind of a villian that is as much sympathetic as he is heinous. My favourite moment is the adult arc as it switches the slow pace to a fast pace thriller as the face their most frightening foe. The monster is born from human.
#01 Haruhi Suzumiya Franchise (2006) [Kyoto Animation] <Light Novel>
There was once a me that was helplessly insecure and introverted who would rather sit in the corner than connect with people, reject people's advances and hide beneath my shell for no apparent reason other than being afraid of superficial judgement by people which is just silly. Well that is until circa 2012, where younger me got yanked by the necktie around Haruhi's world, landed in a world of 2D boobs and weeb culture and look I'm still here. Haruhi Suzumiya is such a charismatic, tactless, callous personality that she holds an iron will torwards what she believes will make the world seem more special, a more fun world filled with interesting occurrences like aliens, time travelers and espers, this might seem perplexing towards the normal man like Kyon but can you really blame her, nothing is gonna change if you just stand around and do nothing, Haruhi doesn't really care if she's acting like a stuck up bitch so long as the mission of making the world special is reached. Even Kyon (the passive observer) warms up that life is fun when you go outside your comfort zone and shine life into the dull world. Thus, now after enacting friendships, joining uniform bodies, participating in camps and just talk a bit more, it may not get as crazy as Haruhi's world but I now know just being more initiative makes life more fun.
Anime by Years:
1-(1984), 1-(1995), 1-(1997), 1-(1998) 1-(2002), 1-(2003), 5-(2006), 2-(2007), 2-(2008), 2-(2009) 2-(2010), 6-(2011), 6-(2012), 3-(2013), 3-(2014), 2-(2015), 1-(2016)
Most no. of shows by anime studios: 5-Madhouse, 4-KyoAni Production IG Bones, 3-Brains Base MAPPA Sunrise
Source: 19-Original, 11-Manga, 5-Novel, 4-Light Novel, 1-Visual Novel
*List will get updated as I watch more shows
#40 Barakamon (2014) [Kinema Citrus] <Manga>
Certainly lacking in any sort of drama, sure. Slice of life episodic nonsense, that is definitely the case. So is it boring? Not really, well for me anyway. A story of a dishonored calligrapher flees from the city to the rural country side of wacky towns people. Yes that cliche, the countryside is the easiest way of life, the funnest way to live. Although we city folk can probably wish to imagine the comradely and hospitality of the fantasy country side that doesn't exist because of the recluses we are. This is tailor-made escapism with a charming casts of characters doing mundane shit that is somehow eerily fascinating. You see the city people freaking out over the simpler ways of life, getting up close and personal with the terrifying embrace of nature. Lovely. Especially for Naru, that adorable little shit.
#39 Mob Psycho 100 (2016) [Bones] <Manga>
This show is the pinnacle of how style can elevate a show from good to amazing. What you expect to be a formulaic superhero story of defeating baddies is more than that, it's a tale of adolescence, a coming of age, one that involves a little bit of eccentricities. A story of just another boy, but this boy has something special in an otherwise normal city. A freaky characteristic to wield psychic powers with no limit in what he could accomplish or destroy. Although with such powers, he does not become the idealised superhero we come to expect, life isn't about the fame and glory for the boy who just wants to make a meaningful middle school life to make friends, impress a girl he likes and joining clubs for eh.. body improvement? We almost forget he is a psychic till his routine visits to his "mentor", as he learns various principles in handling his powers... A wacky, unconventional style that leaves you dismayed after the experience of pure entertainment. Not just a story of defeating the baddies at the end of the day but maybe waking up the next day being a better person than you were yesterday
#38 Psycho Pass (2012) [Production IG] <Original>
Production IG splash back into a sci-fi thriller that was not a Guilty Crown, hailed by acclaimed or most controversial writer Gen Urobuchi well for most of the show and funnily enough sucked after he was not in commission for season 2. A dystopian Tokyo filled with heinous crimes from the totalitarian rule of the Sibyl System as the police bureau use the system to hunt down latent criminals by analysing their stress levels. We follow our officers and explore the flaws of the Sibyl system as a means of crime detection as well as realizing character moral ain't so black or white. High production values and the amount of badassery of just the awe of that dominator splicing people to bits. Pretty exhilarating ride with enough psychological horror and gore to serve a spot in my favourites. Also waiting for a dub for that movie so I won't get ear cancer from the engrish.
#37 Neon Genesis Evangelion / Rebuilds (1995) [Gainax] <Original>
I conclude Shinji is not a bitch contrary to what people had said. I wish I could have liked this '90 classic more than I had, Anno's spiral into depression has amalgamated into an clusterfuck of a series as an ode to the classic mecha genre. Housing one of the most psychologically damaged individuals at their impending doom fighting against the Angels using the souls of the children's mothers (both are not what they seem). As a character study, it is quite powerful as the setting is more of a theatrical stage for all of the character to spill their guts out, the reacquiring theme is acceptance and opening up your heart to people, which can really apply to a lot of us. It can be a frustrating watch for sure with very sour characters, convoluted sci-fi nonsense and ridiculous plot holes. Not exactly thrilling rewatch material but as a action show, it is one of the best with majestic fight scenes by brilliant animators which is why I kind of like the rebuilds even though they are not holding up to the fans very high pedestal. Gainax does magic with this imperfect gem.
#36 Katanagatari (2010) [White Fox] <Light Novel>
The show has lots to say but never means what it says with what seem to be straightforward story of a girl and her sword, collecting the twelve perfected swords for reasons to be vaguely explained. Every episode features a nice little rendezvous at a sword wielder's destination, we will throw around some mythology and backstories while we're here, then fight scenes lambasted by more dialogue about their style of fighting and skills. The show shouldn't have worked but that was not the case as the dialogue was witty and the fights brings character towards the fighters as their style of fighting represents their personality and life virtues. Super wordy and the length might not be everyones taste, but the snappy direction and character acting helps with that. Honestly you don't need to pay to much attention cause most information is recited back or that important shit is dramatized by character reactions anyway. Probably most of the reason it's a favourite is the two main characters banters and interactions are one of the most realistic portrayals of love in anime.
#35 My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU 2 (2015) [Brains Base/Feel] <Light Novel>
Embracing people's feelings can be painful, that is certainly the case with this show by my favourite light novel author Wataru Watari with his touch on delivering his message is especially poignant. A coming of age school slice of life show that is both funny, sad and bitter. Witty dialogue and an abundance of cynicism is the heart of the show, thrown into a club for all intends of purposes is to help those in need while make friends or say aquaintances along the way. The drama resonates with problems dealing with well fitting in, loving yourself and accepting people's kindness and yourself, all those adolescent struggles. As in the hedgehog's dilemma, We seclude from one another so we won't hurt each other. Is it better to keep it to yourself? A hand reaches forward, will you take the chance? It might not seem easy, but we will make it.
#34 Eden of the East (2009) [Production IG] <Original>
So outlandish in its execution, ambitious premise: saving Japan's economic stagnation. The chibi character designs, high production values, throw in a death game with intellectual tactics involved. You know I'm going to love it. For a psychological death game to have such a charming personality to it, the anomalous Takizawa Akira, to the shoujo emotion bubbles, a supercomputer that feels more human than the world surrounding it, stands apart from the dark and dreariness of the genre. Not to say its cartoonny style takes away from the actual meat, 12 supporters with absolute power are trying to save Japan after all. In capitalist Japan were prevalent issues that comes from the separation of the people of power against the weak, which includes the youth, woman, elderly and the NEETs. It shall be the king to be the savior of Japan. An intriguing mystery/conspiracy story that dives into societies dilemmas. It maybe didn't dive deep enough to be completely profound and the product is not perfect, it's still intriguing fun.
#33 5 Centimeters per Second (2007) [CoMix Wave Films] <Original>
I love how effortlessly it depicts character development and drama during the first act, Makoto Shinkai is truly a visionary when it comes to how to tell a story through the animation medium, if I mute the whole show, it would work as a silent movie. However who could do that with Tenmon's fantastic score, in context gives so many emotions of both love and melancholy. A simple story of lost connection over the years and moving on from the past is absolutely stunning, yes that is a screenshot of the movie, crazy isn't it. Although a perspective from Akane's side would have helped the movie flesh out its narrative more. However the ambiguity of the ending still works as a bittersweet taste of reality. If your a fan of animation at all, you owe it to yourself to see this even if it is not your cup of tea.
#32 Ouran High School Host Club (2006) [Bones] <Manga>
I may not be in the demographic, but this is one fine shipping anime, it's so fluffy and brainless, it's just really dumb, I guess that's a good thing. Everyone is characterised by tropes, a school filled with pathetic snobs, all girls wants to ride the hosts dicks, as well as the host club being bat shit insane and pretty much obsessive over Haruhi. I guess the only thing you can say about the characters about is "cute" (the ost is pretty fantastic). They do have their backstories and other rich peoples problems distracting themselves being oddball womanizers. It really shines when they are just being silly for silly's sake and being self-aware on it's nonsense is praise worthy enough. Very spastic direction, not to mention the intense shoujo style, it's definitely for a certain taste. Although some people see this as a subversion of the reverse harem genre, well I guess it's not toxic to women so yeah if that's the sentiment.
#31 Bokura ga Ita (We Were There) (2006) [Artland] <Manga>
I present my favourite shoujo school romance anime, not the flashiest one but a very competent one. I doubt anyone has heard of this show, so here's an endorsement to maybe watch the anime. The show is based on an award winning manga of the same name and you can tell why. It's very mature for a shoujo romance, it's not the usual manipulative female fantasy of creating a bishounen harmen. How creating a relationship that is dysfunctional, frustrating and promiscuous can be the most realistic one, gasp. A story not shying away death and the trauma surrounding it. Well developed characters, drama that is attributed to character flaws and conflicts and never asspulls out of it. I feel that this manga has become an influence to shoujos like Ao Haru Ride and Orange. Do yourself a favor if you watched the anime and read the manga ~chap 32 > it's worth it.
#30 Un-Go (2011) [Bones] <Novel>
Not something you'll see in many people's favourites list, I think this is quite underrated. During an lukewarm period of bones with the less than spectacular sequels and moderate output during 2011, this might slip through people's radar, especially that it is not the most flashiest of shows. Enter Un-Go a psychological mystery thriller where a detective and his "monster" goes around the ruined city as they solve crimes and uncover the truths. Boy do the cases turn to be intriguing set pieces, I have no idea how Bones manage to transfer stories from the Meiji era into the 21st century and add (I think) original elements of cyberpunk and social media. The censorship of information and media due to the terror of the city is fascinating to witness as the government make sure to keep the wars as quiet as possible. The series does go into some magical elements, with both Inga and God with the power to search for the absolute truth and the power to fabricate it to foil. But as the show says "people hold many truths to hold their existence, thus we lie" so we will never know what is the real truth they bare.
#29 Terror in Resonance (2014) [MAPPA] <Original>
A genuinely thrilling anime thriller, what incarnation is this?! Alright to be honest, I wasn't really impressed with this show the first go around, hype is a dangerous thing and the lacking in realism especially when Five shows up threw me off a little. To be honest, who cares about realism in anime? We already have two teenage boys terrorising Japan with actual bombs, I don't think our suspension of disbelief is really set low here. Something that really fascinates me about the show is that it has a clear concise message that Japan needs to wake up and realise the issues that lie within it's borders that is hidden by the corrupt government and how are they gonna create this revolution? Shake it up with some explosions, hell ya! For an 11 ep series, it gets through all development needed in a way that never feels rushed, the characters have motivations and characteristics that fit the narrative, you don't need perfect characters that always does the right thing, it manages to hold realism that way. I see it now Watanabe, through all the high production values.
#28 Kaiba (2008) [Madhouse] <Original>
It's setting is so obviously cyberpunk but the cartoony artstyle is certainly deceiving as some light and fluffy adventure, how wrong I was. Kaiba has a strong dystopian sci-fi foundation with an interesting world where people's souls and memories can be transferred to obtain immortality are a luxury for the high social class while their bodies are now a disposal entity, where food is free and is on the face a perfect utopia. However beneath the clouds, therein holds the dysfuntional society as the corruption and exploitation of the rich have left the poor struggling to survive and feed themselves, as desperate people sneak above the clouds to find a better life, selling their memories to buy shoes for their children or joining a terrorist cult to avenge their parents death. The plot takes a while to finally spins its wheels and our amnesia protaganist isn't gonna be the most interesting person in the world. But each episodes story has a point in worldbuilding while delivering touching themes that deals with family, love and memories. Experience this crazy world yourself.
#27 Guilty Crown (2011) [Production IG] <Original>
What happens when you mix macross and evangelion while doing everything wrong on what makes them good, you get this monstrosity, the insanity that keeps getting better at every rewatch. It's so ridiculous that it feels like a satire towards every anime particularly the more ingrained tropes of the medium, you get your pop-idols, angsty/whinny teens, omnipotent villians, garbage science, death of love interest to drive character motivations, sexually objectified women, beach episodes, transfer students, childhood friend bonanza, countless references to Code Geass and Evangelion and crank the stupidity up eleven notches higher. A trainwreck in every sort of way but it is never unentertaining. Shu suddenly becomes Stalin and reigns over the school, measuring the students power levels for the disdain of the students and ultimately being annihilated by a deux ex machinna is the funniest thing ever. By camp definition of deliberate and self acknowledged theatricality, shows wish to be as over-the-top as guilty crown.
#26 Chihayafuru (2011) [Madhouse] <Manga>
In honor of chihayafuru, I played my version of karuta using poker cards and a random card generator, shit is dangerous, nearly smashed my computer a few times. Most sports anime revolve around chasing for a newer purpose in life, finding your aspiration and the fruit of effort after the relentless and painstaking sowing. This show's no different and changing the scene with an obscure cultural pastime, known as karuta. A young woman with a beautiful face, mediocre grades and oblivious personality who's only goal at the point of time, "play karuta". She and childhood friend 1 establish the karuta club. Typical right? Yeah it is the redundant sports anime plotline, get recruits, team bonding, meet stronger challengers, meet new rivals, learn new skills, throw in that romance subplot while we're at it.... However, madhouse somehow made it work being an inspirational journey with a whole lot of pain that comes with it. Karuta ain't a walk in a ball park with opponents that has realisticly supernatural skills of, hawk eyes, extrasensory hearing and locust fast reaction speeds. It plays with the emotions, it is japanese storytelling after all.
#25 Cross Game (2009) [Synergy SP] <Manga>
I may not be able to get behind watching sports if they are a sword clashing battlefield as most people do, but a sports anime with it's main priority being a coming of age romance, then yes I'm invested. This show has times when they have drastic tonal shifts for comedic effect. Alright it's funny everytime they do that, it's suppose to be a lighthearted coming of age story after all, no melodrama in sight for sure. Teenage life can't get as real and ships can't get as endearing with a collection of characters, all bounded together by their love for baseball as well as the friendship they develop together. All romance stories should have happy and sad moments, with a death of a character ingrained into the story, this crosses turbulent waters but always settles with a resolution. Likable characters throughout well except for the antagonists which your suppose to hate and not to mention that some of the baseball matches had my teeth sinking into my skin.
#24 FLCL (2000) [Gainax/Production IG] <Original>
This show is quite the anomaly, a creator whose only vision is to make it as fun as possible to himself, an unconventional downright ludicrous story which people have rewatched countless times and still don't get, I mean you live in a world where forehead boners that turn into mechas and a vagabond on a Vespa searching for her pirate king. Endless debates on whether "Fooly Cooly" has any deeper meaning than just mindless gibberish. FLCL thrives itself of its exemplary identity and iconic flair that blends the kickback style of rock music while blending in it's most touching theme of growing up and accepting life as what it is, that is why Naota constantly shuns away while conversely wants to embrace Haruko, he is running away from maturity while relinquishes the pleasures of rebelling out of his childishness, don't we all? It is primarily a coming of age story, one that could have been more cohesive in a transitional sense as Naota's character is never constant. However, when the themes of FLCL blossom, you have to look past the leaves and the thorns to smell the flowers. It is fun to watch and fun to analyse.
#23 Samurai Flamenco (2013) [Manglobe] <Original>
Everyone's a flawemco. Heroism is not a job but it is in our blood. We want some excitement in our boring lives, canned in our perception of realism, realising dreams about saving the world is not rectifiable in the real world. However, what if one day suddenly your world of normalcy is turned upside down and you can play superhero all you want for trillions of years. I'm ahead of myself here. Superheroes are always a admiration for Masayoshi as he hasn't grown up from his superhero dreams, he dawns Samurai Flamenco and scouts the neighbourhood for any petty umbrella thieves and litterbugs. Does this satisfy our hero's urges, why not create the fantasy he always dreams of, fighting monsters, mutants, doesn't that seem like fun? Samurai Flamenco pays homage and examines the evolution of the superhero genre and heroism itself in our society. Despite the mess it might have appeared, it has a heart knows full well of its insanity and stands by it.
#22 Kids on the Slope (2012) [MAPPA] <Manga>
Jazz is about the improvisation, syncopation and the irregular rhythms, it's not about following the notes, it's about getting into the groove of the beat, allowing yourself to the freedom of expression through the notes. The unpredictability, the chaotic but structured melody, this is what these struggling teenagers are facing from the uphill slope of their lives. As we are forced to conform to societal constructs, how we are not suppose to do certain things, or shaming certain behavior and individual characteristics. These teens want to act out, to express themselves, away from the eyes of others, closed off from the outside world, in a basement where they perform their jazz sessions and express their discontent and experience freedom of their emotions. This show feels timeless, it's almost like a memoir of the struggles of adolescence, figuring out your path, freedom, love, and yourself.
#21 The Tatami Galaxy (2010) [Madhouse] <Novel>
Gah Masaaki Yuasa, this is beautiful, evocatively spectacular in how the narrative plays out as the cycles retreads the same struggles, failures and disappointments as one would as they play their life out wondering which path will create the rose-coloured dream you wished for. Enter Watashi (me), you got your whole life in your hands, you have only one shot make it count, well unless a gigantic reset button could tell you otherwise. Inside the tatami galaxy has some delightfully wacky but human characters, as they tear you down and build you back up and builds your character bit by bit. Life never seems to go the way you expect, you always seem to get into some crazy shenanigans, finding the allusive horseshoe scrubber, a doll mannequin bodyguard, being swept into a pyramid scheme or paving new grounds for bicycle aeronautics. But that's not what you want, the rose-coloured campus life is such a fantasy as you slowly wither away as though destiny is against you. However a fortune teller will always bring into mind that opportunity is right in front of you, you just need to reach out and grab it. No matter what road you take, you'll just have to make the best out of it.
#20 Cowboy Bebop (1998) [Sunrise] <Original>
I saved this anime classic for a long time in my PTW, anxious to my opinion to this supposed anime masterpiece. To my surprise it is more of an episodic romp, a very fun romp I might add. There are also some instances of emotional poignancy displayed in some of the episodic stories. Each story has its own distinguishing feature whether its it drama, comedic or wack whatever that weed story was, and most of them are done exceedingly well. Well sure enough when it came down to putting on the list, it's quite hard to comprehend my thoughts on it, because it is definitely a show I could watch about 100 times over and not get bored with, its influential cast, breakneck pacing and hilarity. The sci-fi elements are more of a backdrop though, but it definitely more resemble a western action flick, with the titular character basically being Jet Li + Jackie Chan. It's an amalgamtion of influences, this is why it is so distinctive. Every rewatch brings new depth to the series and sure enough, this series is very solid. In every aspect, to the fluid action animation, the iconic soundtrack, the crew etc. I can gush over a lot of aspects of the show, but it should be experienced for every fan of anime.
#19 Kill La Kill (2013) [Trigger] <Original>
Imaishi had made a name for himself, making shows that are bigger and grander than life, intense action, explosive personality and insane characters. Along with his distinctive brash style of intense cuts and stylistic frames. I'm not dive far into his directing work, but I do know I really liked kill la kill. Coming of age never felt so colossal since Dragonball Z, the world feels loud and dynamic helped with the ost that each impact frame feels like a hiroshima bomb each time. It is an exceptional shounen action series. Maybe a slightly cooky one, with clothes dictating your social standing in a fascist society and maybe fighting against some alien human evolution life form. Basically the setting is complete madness, the plot sometimes spiral into the bizarre, damn Nudist Beach. However it makes sense, the themes are simple, the character stories are interesting, it twists and turns, it's just hold together with a whole bunch of crazy glue. One thing I didn't expected however was the characters, they are some off the most bubbly, charismatic, fabulous, likable, eccentric.... (a whole lot of + adjectives), I would love to hang out with them. Also love the in-jokes that makes fun of itself at how campy it is. Well it's up to you if the gratuitous fanservice is tolerable
#18 Wolf's Rain (2003) [Bones] <Original>
A slow burner, yes. A bishoujo roadtrip story FFXV style, yes. Immersive world building, yes. Leaves an impression months after watching this shit, abso-freaking-lutely. This show is haunting, it's imagery, the heavy atmosphere of the near apocalyptic wolf eat wolf world, the nihilistic last of humanity that had given up on the world. Really you continue watching like a Disney ride seeing the despair overcome the world while 4 bishoujos who are some of the few wolves that are thought to be extinct from the world search for the prophesied paradise. Through the destitute cities and desolate landscapes, we travel with these wolves, sometimes with some of our human brethren, as they find a sanctuary in the last moments of the world. Wolf's Rain has some of the most chilling imagery of any anime I've seen, it really sticks while you ponder on the futility of life while all the depressing shit keeps happening in this terrible world. The entire show is just a giant quest to find a purpose of identity, whether love, revenge, trust, happiness, etc. As it explores the human condition in the event where all hope has been completely drained. Chock full of religious and mythological allegories that are fun to read about. Which to be honest, really isn't needed to enjoy the show but extra content to play around with later. The machiavellian climax which ties the knot on an incredible dystopian narrative, along with an ending that is incredibly compelling. Wolf's Rain is an anime that is a must-watch. Especially for its amazing soundtrack.
#17 Full Metal Panic Franchise (2002) [Gonzo/Kyoto Animation] <Light Novel>
I love the FMP franchise, which has been elevated by reading through both the light novels and manga versions. I adore the cast of characters both in the school and military side. They may seem stereotypical at first glance, but they develop to become actual humans with aspirations and lifestyles outside of the battlefield. The first season might get a little awkward as they jump from serious to school comedy in a snap, but they amended this problem with the following seasons. The side story of fumoffu is seriously one of the best anime comedies out there, with the slapstick being super creative and skips with good comedic timing. On the other hand TSR is a serious war drama with Sousuke introspecting on what it means to be a man of war while Kaname finds herself in a dangerous situation and and she's not gonna stand for it. Its versatility as a comedy and war drama is applaudable and hope to see what's gonna happen to the franchise in the future. Side note: I hope that the alledged new FMP adaptation for the studio will adapt the ending day by day novels, cause it's fucking intense, just picturing it makes me shiver
#16 Black Lagoon (2006) [Madhouse] <Manga>
Brutal, unforgiving, offensively brash with the right amount of insanity too, Black Lagoon is the most extravagant piece of popcorn entertainment of blind massacres, psychotic mannerisms and wacky action. The Lagoon Company, a pirate mercenary unit are thrown into missions of the absurd, they ain't complaining, whatever makes them a quick buck in a shit town in South East Asia, where back alley crimes run deep, cock your guns, it's gonna get bloody quick. Black Lagoon is like a grease fire, it just takes one slip up and it turns into a shitstorm with the aftermath in totality is completely incinerated with as much gruesome violence as you can imagine with the R rating attatched to it. The Revy and Rock dynamic also makes the experience hold ground with Rock being the everyman of the situation which creates a levity in an immoral society and is not a pushover himself while Revy is a batshit insane gunslinger that has pottymouth of a truck driver that treats killing as her second instinct. All in all, this is some fine western pandering here.
#15 Garo: Honoo no Kokuin (2014) [MAPPA] <Original>
Studio MAPPA has an impressive track record since appearing to the scene in 2012 with famous director Shinchiro Watanabe establishing the studio's baby steps. Now they have always brought something innovative to the table with their productions, to '90s style battle shounen, to original concepts, to psychological thrillers. In fall 2014 they brought out two versions of medieval fantasy action airing at the same time, while majority prefer the other one being more flashy cinematically, the tonkatsu drama adaptation in my opinion is much more captivating in storytelling while still delivering the epicness in a ruthless uncaring world of Garo. A world of horrors which consume the fragility of the human mind engulfing them into their evil incarnations. Where there is evil, there is a savior and those are the Makai Knights & Makai Priests, who go and slay these horrors to protect the people. Sadly the civillisation has been brainwashed by the king's advisor as demons and witches and are banished. However this thankless role still needs to be done. We follow a father son duo as they fight the evil horrors, meet new subordinates, grow ip and realise what they are fighting for in this ruthless world. It is glorious.
#14 Tiger & Bunny (2011) [Sunrise] <Original>
The show is just so cool, it has style in all the right ways, that it is not just riding of it predominantly but has a continuous story that develops. In a apparent neo-Tokyo where the superhero world has turned into a corporate buisness reality show where the superhero's have their costumes emblazoned with sponsor logos as heroism has become a money and entertainment goldmine. Crime fighting has become a new fad while the Next are being discriminated against by the general populace, moreover being put onto the big screens for peoples entertainment and the people upstairs make sure the cash continues to rake in by any means necessary. Fun and exhilarating, as the game show is fast paced along with that soundtrack and watching Kotetsu and Barnaby's antics are really fun. Along with the squad of superheroes that are just enjoyable on their own. Kotetsu gives life to the series, he's such a charmer and down to earth, you just want to root for him the entire series. He's just a man with a family to go home to after all.
#13 Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) [Ghibli] <Manga>
Environmentalist Anti-War Ghibli Ver. I is absolutely marvelous. The scale of the this fantasy epic is absolutely admirable, especially when dealing with a colossal story spanning several warring nations and a world that leaves you immersed in it's other worldly beauty. Flourishing atmosphere that builds with our protaganist wander through the alluring landscapes as we learn through the eyes Miyazaki's vision and message. An anti-war story that never chooses a side or beats you in with the morality mallet, it let's you interpret yourself as we see the stories from their view as we are allowed to question that maybe no one needs to be right, in a battle between human vs nature. Filled with impressive characters that never chooses stand on the scale of hero or villian as they act within their own ideal self-interests. Strong independent female heroines that I applaud. Nausicaä will leave you gobsmacked in it's grand epic of poignant introspection.
#12 Princess Mononoke (1997) [Ghibli] <Original>
Environmentalist Anti-War Ghibli Ver. II just is damn epic maybe smaller in scale compared to Nausicaä but equally intense maybe a bit more focused. Princess Mononoke is a simple tale of mountainous proportions of many stories, a love story, the lives of the villagers and animals, the adventures of Ashitaka as he sets out to destroy hate. Now with such a grand tale in the eyes of Ashitaka as he forms alliances between the humans and the beasts to settle a dispute of the two kinds. Neither side is painted as the villian, as they do not portray either side as evil beings out to destroy for malign reasons, you could understand their rational to maintain peace in the conflict. While in graceful Ghibli fashion, it has one of the most kickass heroines to appear in an anime in a form of a half wolf girl. Animation looks as expected for Ghibli films, fantastic even for today's standards. A soundtrack that exudes epicness (the only suitable word). A fantasy world that is as well fleshed out as the characters surrounding it while giving an exciting twist to the tired human vs savage trope.
#11 Welcome to the NHK (2006) [Gonzo] <Novel>
Ah that was depressing, but still incredibly optimistic. Enter the NHK and you can't escape, you have no mouth but you must scream, had reached the lowest point of your life, an otaku, a hikkikamori, a trash to the public. That's what they think, useless, paranoid, insecure, unable to arrive to the standard, they lock themselves away from the world, away from the judgemental eyes of the public, till they spiral further into darkness affecting their family and friends. Quite the heavy issue here in a competitive society where profession and grades deems a person's value, but that doesn't matter if you can find your on happiness, NHK is about Satou's story, as a strange girl helps Satou rehabilitate and assimilate back into society to cure of his hikkikamori and pull him out of the NHK conspiracy. Heavy themes of depression, suicide & death, sex, social anxiety and sex is present so this show is certainly is not a jolly good time, but they do light up with some dark humor of Satou's inability in interacting into society. It's not the prettiest show but for it's message as a motivation for people who are going through tough times, it's really a must-watch.
#10 Space Battleship Yamato 2199 (2013) [Xebec/AIC] <Manga>
As the humanity's hope of existence dwindles in the face of the genocidal massacre of their kind by what is to be an intellectual species of conquest are near critical stages. The Yamato, a battleship fitted with the capsule and key to humanity's salvation that would traverse through the galaxy in search of a planet known as Iscander which will bring upon the restoration of Earth and the last hope for humanity. However, it isn't such smooth sailing for the Yamato as they face upon their enemy in grand space shoot-outs as the Yamato and it's crew continue it's Hero's journey. This is one of the most fleshed out narratives I've seen in anime, the wars between the three species never come across as heavily sided against the humans in the wars, sure we want the humans to win but we never saw the Gamillas as prevalently evil but settles for a morally grey area and never goes overly incessantly in self pity over on humanity's side. Not to mention it is also a character driven narrative with the crew of the Yamato as they provide subtle world building and vignettes of development to almost all the cast. I find it remarkable as it drives in the emotional impact during the trials the Yamato faces. It hits the kokoro many times and a satisfying journey as they pushing forward with even a sliver of hope.
#09 Princess Tutu (2002) [Hal Film Maker] <Original>
This is a masterpiece of storytelling, taking the common fairytales of Hans Christian Anderson and subverting them into Shakespearean conventions, it makes for a fantastical version of Romeo & Juliet but with a duck as the titular character. It may look like a kids show and it is definitely is one. However, this show is quite cheeky and constantly subverts your expectations of the show. It is not a clear battle of good vs evil, with the puppetmaster of the show being an ambivalent omnipotent being that you will never expect. It is quite complex for a kids show. There are many interesting character studies with each of the cast which are integral to the plot about prima ballerinas trying to win the "heart" of a lost prince, the "heart" that he has lost to save his people. A story about a duck wanting to fall in love with a prince, but she is just a duck. Until some power made the story come true and she will have to collect pieces of the princes' heart. She thus will meet multiple people and help them with their insecurities by turning into Princess Tutu, along the way meet new foes but many more friendhips along the way. In this majestic tale of optimism and tribulations in this non-conventional lovingly crafted work that I marathoned through, cause it was just so engrossingly lovely.
#08 Hyouka (2012) [Kyoto Animation] <Novel>
Well you guys could have Your Lie In April's manic pixie dream girl, I'll take my ~kininarimasu thank you. Hyouka is a special show, made with love and care towards every character no matter how minor. Delivering the essence of growing up filled with struggles of love, talent, friendship and insecurities. From Oreki being dragged out of his grey box towards a rose-coloured life by the pixie girl, to Satoshi and Mayaka realizing their inferior talent, even the pixie girl has her struggles, Growing up is hard, they know it too. Mature in its execution, beautiful direction, this is kyoto animation's magnum opus with their formula. Detailing the curiosities of life and peek into the joys of the mundane. This show feels like a piece of literature, subtle and poignant, every rewatch brings out more to the characters and story, it truly is a classic. This is one of the most relatable coming of age stories to come out of the medium.
#07 Planetes (2003) [Sunrise] <Manga>
They love space, so did the people who made it. Our lovable collection of space debris cleanup crew do well to put it in simple terms, slice of life activities in space, crazy hijinks, relationships, workplace drama, well ya know sitcom stuff. It's hilarity gold. You can't get anymore epic than crashing a space probe through a satelight to alter its parabola and stop a terrorist act of destruction just for a smoke. The show have it's craziness but always tones it down for the serious moments, from human drama to geopolitics, lots of variety here. They seemlessly mastered a weekly episodic story that could switch between funny to serious that maintains a coherent episodic plot. Having said that, the second half features a huge tonal shift with the monopoly of space resources creates massive divides in social classes and escalates to an all out war. Meanwhile, our favourite headband wearing hero goes on his selfish quest to conquer space even for the sake of his co-workers and friends, while the show proclaims "space is too vast to go alone". If that doesn't work out, you can't go wrong with an adorably awkward canon couple right? The word grand is fitting for this anime.
#06 Wolf Children (2012) [Madhouse/Studio Chizu] <Original>
You'll need your soul-lightening disney-esque movie once in a while, one to give you hope and alleviate some of the tension in your life, like a quick endorphin injection. Hell it might have some cries and tears sprinkled in, well doesn't that make the happy times more worth it. Enter wolf children, a single mother having to take care of two wolf children, as she figures out how to deal with raising two children by herself while faces problems regarding that they are also wolves. While Hana finds her happiness, raising her children in the countryside and working hard to support them. The children's side is even more fascinating as they choose their lives on whether to become a normal human and blend into society or remain as a wolf and embrace their animalistic side in well told magical coming of age story. Not to mention Hosada (the Japenese Walt Disney) cause he is renowned for his directing skills as shown with his other family themed work Summer Wars, but feel good stories don't get much better than Wolf Children in my opinion.
#05 Clannad After Story (2008) [Kyoto Animation] <Visual Novel>
Ah clannad, oh how I love after story especially from ep 8-22. I know clannad feels overrated cause it was hyped by the key/kyoani pairing and being key's best story ever told. I can see the flaws of the series, it's a generic harem, solving conflicts that has no ties to the narrative: Fuko, Kotomi. When it's not doing generic slapstick slice of life, it's melodrama city. The script is just messy trying to connect arcs together while adding magical elements to it. I get that and of course I'm not gonna say that the episodes mentioned justify this series acclaim, but whatever love is always right. Tomoya and Nagisa's relationship has been a main part of clannad's story, their development throughout high school into adulthood, is incredibly engrossing as they leave school, find jobs, live together, struggle with existentialism issues, tying up the knots of past troubles, maternity struggles, dreams and sacrifices. However everything is fine as long as you have someone to lean on especially with people you love, that's what this show is screaming. It's sad at times, it's happy too, life can't say it better.
#04 Concrete Revolutio: Superhuman Phantasmagoria (2015) [Bones] <Original>
Are you still singing? The last serenade of the spirit of revolution in this adult world where we accept that justice is grey, that there is no such thing as true justice, we were told to accept the unjustifiable actions of the fraudulent government, hate crimes, prevalent racism, etc, as part of the norm and we are not in parse to complain and just continue believing that partial correctness and suppress our voice. This show replicates the struggle for true justice in the real world, by subverting the ideas of justice in a story where, superhumans, yokai, robots, monsters, aliens, etc live in the same universe as they drive in themes of justice that are applicable to the real world. Not to mention the countless pop culture refrences and throwbacks to the 60s and 70s, the Mai Lai Massacre, the Sapporo Winter Olympics, especially towards Sentai and Tonkatsu superhero stories. Truly original, truly inspired and completely cohesive in its message. It is a flawed masterpiece and I'm grateful for that. Not to mention, it's got style, look at those 60s inspired saturated colorful pop art aesthetics.
#03 Mawaru Penguindrum (2011) [Brains Base] <Original>
Another family themed anime. This time by master director Ikuhara which reminds me I should dive into Utena, well since his other yuri show wasn't really my taste. Penguindrum is fun to watch, fun to think about and a very poignant journey to follow. The world can be a cruel an unfair place, with tragedy and suffering coming upon innocent lives with unjust consequences. However, what if you can change this fate, the power of the penguindrum and create a miracle at any cost. Telling a story of a dysfunctional household as their youngest child becomes terminally ill when a magical hat brings her back to life. As the child's alter ego proclaims that the brothers shall obtain the penguindrum in exchange for the youngest child's life. While also exploring different very flamboyant characters on how a certain incident caused their families to drift apart and their mission to correct their unjust fate. The show has some very intricate stylings and gratuitous amounts of visual storytelling and references that it is impossible to pick up all of it. However in a narrative perspective outside it's theatrics, the show is incredibly extensive in it's story and touching. Nevertheless I adore Ikuhara's vision here, it's super compelling.
#02 From The New World (2012) [A-1 Pictures] <Novel>
From the list, you know I like my dystopias, the horror of the seemingly ordinary as the habitants wander through the depths of the broken society churned out from meticulous control, government and fear towards its citizens. A seemingly quiet and serene folk town in Japan where life has been made easier with psychokinetic powers, the children go to school, play by the rice fields and go on pleasant camping trips. However as the first episode illustrates the catastrophe that has brought upon the human race due to the new power and as we unfold new truths about this strange town, the more unsettling the experience is. As the children reads fairytales that is referenced to the horrors of humanity to stories of children disappearing in schools. It's ominous tone carries throughout as we continue to uncover more secrets about the society. The world building is some of the most captivating development I've ever seen, maybe some more active protaganists would have helped. However that doesn't detract from the exquisite world that was created with a mastermind of a villian that is as much sympathetic as he is heinous. My favourite moment is the adult arc as it switches the slow pace to a fast pace thriller as the face their most frightening foe. The monster is born from human.
#01 Haruhi Suzumiya Franchise (2006) [Kyoto Animation] <Light Novel>
There was once a me that was helplessly insecure and introverted who would rather sit in the corner than connect with people, reject people's advances and hide beneath my shell for no apparent reason other than being afraid of superficial judgement by people which is just silly. Well that is until circa 2012, where younger me got yanked by the necktie around Haruhi's world, landed in a world of 2D boobs and weeb culture and look I'm still here. Haruhi Suzumiya is such a charismatic, tactless, callous personality that she holds an iron will torwards what she believes will make the world seem more special, a more fun world filled with interesting occurrences like aliens, time travelers and espers, this might seem perplexing towards the normal man like Kyon but can you really blame her, nothing is gonna change if you just stand around and do nothing, Haruhi doesn't really care if she's acting like a stuck up bitch so long as the mission of making the world special is reached. Even Kyon (the passive observer) warms up that life is fun when you go outside your comfort zone and shine life into the dull world. Thus, now after enacting friendships, joining uniform bodies, participating in camps and just talk a bit more, it may not get as crazy as Haruhi's world but I now know just being more initiative makes life more fun.
Anime by Years:
1-(1984), 1-(1995), 1-(1997), 1-(1998) 1-(2002), 1-(2003), 5-(2006), 2-(2007), 2-(2008), 2-(2009) 2-(2010), 6-(2011), 6-(2012), 3-(2013), 3-(2014), 2-(2015), 1-(2016)
Most no. of shows by anime studios: 5-Madhouse, 4-KyoAni Production IG Bones, 3-Brains Base MAPPA Sunrise
Source: 19-Original, 11-Manga, 5-Novel, 4-Light Novel, 1-Visual Novel
Posted by kyonJIE | Mar 2, 2016 6:20 AM | 0 comments