February 17th, 2016
Kessaku List
This is not a best-to-worst list. It follows alphabetical order. These are the pieces of fiction I think are worthy to call kessaku (傑作).
"But what is a kessaku?", you might ask. 傑作 means 'masterpiece' in Japanese. I prefer to use this distinct name to avoid confusion with what other people deem a masterpiece. So far, I've never rated anything a 10, for I've never found anything that deserved such a score. However, anything that receives a 8.5 to 10 score from me has affected me in a much more personal level than other works of fiction.
So, I call kessaku works that have a high emotional value, as well as a substantial intellectual value. High emotional value means they were able to move me emotionally to a level few others could. It can be fear, sorrow, bliss, etc. And by high intellectual value, I mean works that handled their themes and messages well enough that they provided me with interesting ideas and concepts to reflect about.
Those titles reach a point in which they become sort of a part of me...
Friday Night Lights (TV Series)
Why it rocks: A teenage drama that stands out from other series of the same genre. It doesn't idealize teenagers nor it pretends they are the center of the world and can do whatever they want without suffering any consequences. Instead of it, teens are portrayed as they really are: stupid. The series shows how those kids learn from their mistakes and the big role parents play in their lives. It has a very talented cast like few other series do, thus the acting creates very remarkable moments and makes the show feel a lot more real and close to the viewer.
Fringe (TV Series)
Why it rocks: It appears simple on the surface, but it's actually something much bigger. Fringe mixes science fiction and interpersonal relationships in an outstanding way. A very intricate and well-paced plot, great performances, and wonderful character dynamics, just to name a few of its qualities. It's impressive how the 'big' (what's happening in the world) is connected to the 'small' (what's happening among the characters). Sure, it's about telepathy, future vision, mutants; but it's also about love, regret and hope.
Iris Zero (Manga)
Why it rocks: A creative and captivating work. It uses its concept to create powerful intra and interpersonal conflicts while being a mystery story. This work succeeds in a lot of things, for example, the protagonist, the romance and especially, the character development. Its art is extremely powerful as well, one of its biggest strengths in fact, because of the way it portrays the most impactful and remarkable moments.
Little Busters! (Visual Novel Series)
Why it rocks: A beautiful story about growing up, perhaps the best one centered around that particular subject. While it does have great personal stories for each character of the cast, it truly shines in its climax and all the build-up leading to that. With an impressive character design and soundtrack (some tracks dig deep into your heart and will probably never get out of it), Little Busters! is a tear-jerking and emotional story with a long-lasting impact.
Non Non Biyori (Anime)
Why it rocks: “Iyashikei” is a Japan-unique genre that doesn’t fit in the drama/comedy umbrella. It’s not trying to make you laugh or create a conflict as a source of drama; its purpose is to put one’s mind at ease and relaxation. In this sense, Non Non Biyori is a iyashikei executed masterfully. Its setting, stunning backgrounds, music and story make one forget about all the worries in real life. As the anime progresses, the watcher becomes closer and closer to the characters and it gets better and better. It celebrates simplicity, youth, and the small, joyful moments of life. It’s a perfect example that something doesn’t need to be ambitious to be great.
Rewrite (Visual Novel Series)
Why it rocks: A wonderful cast of characters slowly getting closer to each other in a club, just like a regular anime plot, constitutes the build-up for something much more serious and darker. With some strong voice acting, this work is both story and character-driven in a great way. Individual character routes are wonderfully executed, with mystery, romance, adventure and action all together to create something truly epic. Each route reveals a little about the big picture, and all of them raise more curiosity. The soundtrack is also remarkable and well done, the best VN soundtrack I’ve come across, in fact.
Steven Universe (Cartoon)
Why it rocks: The most 'surprising' work on the list. It started off as a bland monster-of-the-week cartoon with a few good episodes here and there. Then, it took a complete 180 degree turn after the first half of the first season. The story takes real shape and becomes very interesting, the mysteries start to be revealed after strong build-up, and the characters show unpredictable dimensions and development. Steven Universe deals with complex emotions and it’s an outside view on humans. It shows the weaknesses and strengths of human beings, and why we are so special, despite our flaws. The soundtrack is amazing, especially because it uses the Disney technique I like so much that is to explore its characters through songs; and it definitely delivers it, guaranteed to make some moments unforgettable. A well-used setting, remarkable characters everywhere, stunning soundtrack, interesting color palette, captivating stories, Steven Universe is worth calling a rare “gem”.
Stranger Things (TV Series)
Why it rocks: There are many things that can be said about this show, thus it's pretty hard to keep it short. Stranger Things gives most of its fans nostalgic feelings (Spielberg, Stephen King, etc.), but that is far from being the only merit of this series. It is solid enough to stand on its own and even surpass most of what inspired it. Lovable characters and cast, amazing soundtrack, it is bound to hook you and never let it go. Stranger Things is a love letter to all of us freaks, frequently misunderstood, and sometimes hated: we aren't any less than the normies out there.
Sword Art Online (Anime)
Why it rocks: Sword Art Online is a tale about virtual reality and how it can be just as real as real life. It is also about the struggles of people, trying to find strength in another world. The first cour is impeccable, everything just comes together in a way no piece of fiction has ever done before. Despite dropping quality later on, it's still impressive and unique enough to be considered a kessaku. The anime knows how to be dynamic and versatile, something that many other shows lack. It's not afraid to swift genres, or settings or characters, so that the story never becomes tiresome or stale. Sword Art Online may be a very polarizing anime, but most of its watchers do consider it a great work.
We Bare Bears (Cartoon)
Why it rocks: Another surprise by Cartoon Network. It starts somewhat bland and boring, but as each episode passes, it becomes better and better. It’s a great cartoon with likable characters, fun story, charming acting and impressive soundtrack. The friendship among the bears is one of its best features, attaching the viewer to it as it goes on. We Bare Bears deals with social anomia and awkwardness, as its characters try their best to ‘fit’ in the society; while also exploring contemporary issues such as social networks, memes and even anime. If you want fun, go for it.
Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy ga Machigatteiru. (Light Novel)
Why it rocks: This is not a standard romcom or teenage anime drama. It’s very very different. First, the protagonist is relatable and very realistic as well; the novel does an incredible job portraying his way of thinking, his actions and his philosophy, in a way that he feels unusually close to the reader. Second, it is a social analysis on teenagers and high school interactions. It shows the truth behind them, and it is great. Each character is important to the plot someway and, together, the main cast engages in very complex relationships as they try to figure out how to do what most teenagers cannot do. As the story shifts its mood, the art also takes a shift, with the improvement of style Ponkan8 had, creating powerfully beautiful illustrations.
Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou (Manga)
Why it rocks: YKK manga is difficult to describe. It revolves around a certain concept, or way of thinking, known as "mono no aware" in Japan. Basically, it means the certainty of the ephemeral nature of things. It could also be called an 'iyashikei', however, at the same time it heals you, it also fills your heart with melancholy and sadness. The world is ending, and humans are enjoying life as they can, while they can. And, in a certain way, it resembles real life. The art is one of the best I've seen, as it's able to convey emotions masterfully and it communicates the bittersweetness of the manga even better than the story. Soothingly idealistic, and, at the same time, painfully pessimistic, this manga is a must-read.
"But what is a kessaku?", you might ask. 傑作 means 'masterpiece' in Japanese. I prefer to use this distinct name to avoid confusion with what other people deem a masterpiece. So far, I've never rated anything a 10, for I've never found anything that deserved such a score. However, anything that receives a 8.5 to 10 score from me has affected me in a much more personal level than other works of fiction.
So, I call kessaku works that have a high emotional value, as well as a substantial intellectual value. High emotional value means they were able to move me emotionally to a level few others could. It can be fear, sorrow, bliss, etc. And by high intellectual value, I mean works that handled their themes and messages well enough that they provided me with interesting ideas and concepts to reflect about.
Those titles reach a point in which they become sort of a part of me...
Friday Night Lights (TV Series)
Why it rocks: A teenage drama that stands out from other series of the same genre. It doesn't idealize teenagers nor it pretends they are the center of the world and can do whatever they want without suffering any consequences. Instead of it, teens are portrayed as they really are: stupid. The series shows how those kids learn from their mistakes and the big role parents play in their lives. It has a very talented cast like few other series do, thus the acting creates very remarkable moments and makes the show feel a lot more real and close to the viewer.
Fringe (TV Series)
Why it rocks: It appears simple on the surface, but it's actually something much bigger. Fringe mixes science fiction and interpersonal relationships in an outstanding way. A very intricate and well-paced plot, great performances, and wonderful character dynamics, just to name a few of its qualities. It's impressive how the 'big' (what's happening in the world) is connected to the 'small' (what's happening among the characters). Sure, it's about telepathy, future vision, mutants; but it's also about love, regret and hope.
Iris Zero (Manga)
Why it rocks: A creative and captivating work. It uses its concept to create powerful intra and interpersonal conflicts while being a mystery story. This work succeeds in a lot of things, for example, the protagonist, the romance and especially, the character development. Its art is extremely powerful as well, one of its biggest strengths in fact, because of the way it portrays the most impactful and remarkable moments.
Little Busters! (Visual Novel Series)
Why it rocks: A beautiful story about growing up, perhaps the best one centered around that particular subject. While it does have great personal stories for each character of the cast, it truly shines in its climax and all the build-up leading to that. With an impressive character design and soundtrack (some tracks dig deep into your heart and will probably never get out of it), Little Busters! is a tear-jerking and emotional story with a long-lasting impact.
Non Non Biyori (Anime)
Why it rocks: “Iyashikei” is a Japan-unique genre that doesn’t fit in the drama/comedy umbrella. It’s not trying to make you laugh or create a conflict as a source of drama; its purpose is to put one’s mind at ease and relaxation. In this sense, Non Non Biyori is a iyashikei executed masterfully. Its setting, stunning backgrounds, music and story make one forget about all the worries in real life. As the anime progresses, the watcher becomes closer and closer to the characters and it gets better and better. It celebrates simplicity, youth, and the small, joyful moments of life. It’s a perfect example that something doesn’t need to be ambitious to be great.
Rewrite (Visual Novel Series)
Why it rocks: A wonderful cast of characters slowly getting closer to each other in a club, just like a regular anime plot, constitutes the build-up for something much more serious and darker. With some strong voice acting, this work is both story and character-driven in a great way. Individual character routes are wonderfully executed, with mystery, romance, adventure and action all together to create something truly epic. Each route reveals a little about the big picture, and all of them raise more curiosity. The soundtrack is also remarkable and well done, the best VN soundtrack I’ve come across, in fact.
Steven Universe (Cartoon)
Why it rocks: The most 'surprising' work on the list. It started off as a bland monster-of-the-week cartoon with a few good episodes here and there. Then, it took a complete 180 degree turn after the first half of the first season. The story takes real shape and becomes very interesting, the mysteries start to be revealed after strong build-up, and the characters show unpredictable dimensions and development. Steven Universe deals with complex emotions and it’s an outside view on humans. It shows the weaknesses and strengths of human beings, and why we are so special, despite our flaws. The soundtrack is amazing, especially because it uses the Disney technique I like so much that is to explore its characters through songs; and it definitely delivers it, guaranteed to make some moments unforgettable. A well-used setting, remarkable characters everywhere, stunning soundtrack, interesting color palette, captivating stories, Steven Universe is worth calling a rare “gem”.
Stranger Things (TV Series)
Why it rocks: There are many things that can be said about this show, thus it's pretty hard to keep it short. Stranger Things gives most of its fans nostalgic feelings (Spielberg, Stephen King, etc.), but that is far from being the only merit of this series. It is solid enough to stand on its own and even surpass most of what inspired it. Lovable characters and cast, amazing soundtrack, it is bound to hook you and never let it go. Stranger Things is a love letter to all of us freaks, frequently misunderstood, and sometimes hated: we aren't any less than the normies out there.
Sword Art Online (Anime)
Why it rocks: Sword Art Online is a tale about virtual reality and how it can be just as real as real life. It is also about the struggles of people, trying to find strength in another world. The first cour is impeccable, everything just comes together in a way no piece of fiction has ever done before. Despite dropping quality later on, it's still impressive and unique enough to be considered a kessaku. The anime knows how to be dynamic and versatile, something that many other shows lack. It's not afraid to swift genres, or settings or characters, so that the story never becomes tiresome or stale. Sword Art Online may be a very polarizing anime, but most of its watchers do consider it a great work.
We Bare Bears (Cartoon)
Why it rocks: Another surprise by Cartoon Network. It starts somewhat bland and boring, but as each episode passes, it becomes better and better. It’s a great cartoon with likable characters, fun story, charming acting and impressive soundtrack. The friendship among the bears is one of its best features, attaching the viewer to it as it goes on. We Bare Bears deals with social anomia and awkwardness, as its characters try their best to ‘fit’ in the society; while also exploring contemporary issues such as social networks, memes and even anime. If you want fun, go for it.
Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy ga Machigatteiru. (Light Novel)
Why it rocks: This is not a standard romcom or teenage anime drama. It’s very very different. First, the protagonist is relatable and very realistic as well; the novel does an incredible job portraying his way of thinking, his actions and his philosophy, in a way that he feels unusually close to the reader. Second, it is a social analysis on teenagers and high school interactions. It shows the truth behind them, and it is great. Each character is important to the plot someway and, together, the main cast engages in very complex relationships as they try to figure out how to do what most teenagers cannot do. As the story shifts its mood, the art also takes a shift, with the improvement of style Ponkan8 had, creating powerfully beautiful illustrations.
Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou (Manga)
Why it rocks: YKK manga is difficult to describe. It revolves around a certain concept, or way of thinking, known as "mono no aware" in Japan. Basically, it means the certainty of the ephemeral nature of things. It could also be called an 'iyashikei', however, at the same time it heals you, it also fills your heart with melancholy and sadness. The world is ending, and humans are enjoying life as they can, while they can. And, in a certain way, it resembles real life. The art is one of the best I've seen, as it's able to convey emotions masterfully and it communicates the bittersweetness of the manga even better than the story. Soothingly idealistic, and, at the same time, painfully pessimistic, this manga is a must-read.
Posted by starlessn1ght | Feb 17, 2016 12:20 PM | 1 comments