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Dec 16, 2013
This is one of those hidden stories that no one seems to know about, a diamond of a find buried away.
Iris Zero is a high school drama set in a time when humans are slowly evolving to develop eyes that can see more than just the physical world. What sets Iris Zero apart is despite the unique premise, it still brings back themes that we experience in every age (love, jealousy, hate, discrimination, fear, hope) and the author's amazing ability to weave a story together and present it beautifully. The only criticism I can give about the presentation is the fact that it
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is given in small arcs from one to the next instead of one grand storyline. Aside from that, the stories themselves are outstanding.
Furthermore, the character development is fantastic. Each arc brings you deeper into the confines of each character, showing you their strong points, their weak points, where they shine and their deepest darkest corners. You will learn to love all of the characters, for both their good points and their flaws.
It's a shame that this manga appears to hitting so many bumps getting chapters updated. It truly is a joy to read and I would not be surprised at all if the popularity of it exploded one day if it ever makes it into an anime.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Dec 6, 2013
Fun, enjoyable, and easy to read while making you feel just a little more naughty, chapter after chapter, Nana to Kaoru is one of those titles that is really hard to put down to the point of being addicting.
Nana to Kaoru takes you into the world of BDSM, a world perhaps alien and intriguing to most, but does it in a way that shows the heart of this world while making your heart beat each step of the way. Despite being an ecchi title, Nana to Kaoru is very polished and sharp on the points that count. You still get your so-called fan-service,
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but it's done in such a subtle and clean way that it flows flawlessly with the story. Slapstick humor, although present, is very minimal. Even cheap harem routes, often present in most ecchi titles, is not present. The fact that Nana no Kaoru is even labelled "ecchi" in itself may be secondary to the story and insight it presents.
It also surprisingly has excellent character development and depth, showing insight into the main characters and their psyche. Story development is pretty linear and so-so, as with most stories like these, making the audience sit on their hands waiting for the main characters to get together, but you'll be even more surprised to find it really heart-touching, at times.
Overall, it's a great and enjoyable read if you're looking for a story, something tasteful and a little on the naughty side. Definitely recommended.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Sep 3, 2009
Pursuing happiness, seeking love and acknowledgment, chasing dreams, and all being led with the faint whisper of hope, Ef is one of the most emotionally powerfully pieces of art out there. Redefining how animation can be emotionally jarring to all the senses, Ef illustrates how anime can really be more than just a show; it's an art. For those who enjoy heart-wrenching drama and heart-warming romance, this is a story you do not want to miss.
Ef is not like any other anime you have ever experienced. Instead of watching what the main characters go through from an stranger's third eye, you experience
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the emotions as if you were there and a part of them. To be able to see the emotions of pain, hear the echoes of loneliness, and feel your stomach turn and throat tighten up feeling your hope slip away, the art and the music, together, play such a powerful melody that you can't help but get chills from the effect.
Aside from the novelty of the graphical art and audio, the character development and story progression itself makes this anime worth watching. The tale of three separate love stories loosely tied in relation and theme. Each character is dynamic in their own way with their own hopes, dreams, and fears. They seem so real that you can step into their shoes and understand them from the inside out. Fictional characters? Maybe. But the emotions you feel watching them, those are real.
I love this anime and enjoyed every second watching it. The experience is just too hard to describe. It's just a really powerfully piece that you just have to watch to understand. I definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys dramas. It will make you cry; I guarantee it.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Jan 5, 2009
It's always a shock when you start submerging yourself in a story that you don't think will be that interesting and suddenly find yourself completely lost in it. Being a big fan of stories about the underdog, I'd have to say, Skip Beat! definitely captivated me; you're pulled in and can't stop reading wondering what will happen next.
The characters themselves are very unique and well developed. The main character turns out to be a young heroine, Mogami Kyoko, probably one of my favorite characters. Her natural frankness and unsurpassed perseverance makes you just want to root for her even though the way
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she was introduced into the entertainment world is so unusual. Despite being undermined and looked down upon, it's just amazing how much she achieves and shines. Besides Kyoko, there are so many characters that you meet in the story, each with their own complex story and background. The characters are so dynamic, each in their own way that it just makes you want to know more about every single one of them.
It's no surprise that the characters themselves are so well developed since even those characters have to try act out other characters within the story, almost like a story within the story. The main storyline is quite simple, but the complexity lies within the background of each actor, each character. As you read on, you find out that everyone has a secret that they don't wish to be revealed, and that must be how it is in the entertainment industry.
As far as art is concerned, I must say that I have no complaints at all, although the author does tend to "chibi" forms a lot probably because of the difficulty and detail involved with each character. However, when it comes to the crucial moments, the expressions and looks on the faces of each character are amazing. When a character looks angry, it sends chills down your spine. The author certainly breathes life into each character. A smile can be from genuine to cruel to down right evil.
Overall, I loved the characters and the story development of Skip Beat! If you enjoy stories about the underdog, someone with a little bit of talent and a lot of perseverance, then I definitely recommend giving Skip Beat! a read.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Jan 31, 2008
When watching an anime series, above all else, there are really only two important distinguishing qualities that make good anime great: storyline and character. What makes Mahoraba absolutely a joy to watch is the cast of dynamic characters who we learn to love throughout the series. The characters in Mahoraba are very unique but genuine. They each have their own quirks and faults and as the story progresses, we learn a little more about each of them. It's funny how in the first few episodes, everyone tends to pick their favorites. I did the same thing, and there were even
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a few that I didn't particularly like at first. However, as I learned more about all the characters, I found towards the end that I loved all of them for their silly faults.
Mahoraba can be arguably a romantic comedy (less romance, more comedy), but I would rather say it's along the lines of a "slice of life." Interestingly enough, the anime didn't follow a story, but rather the characters in the story. Afterall, it's the characters in Mahoraba that make it Heartful Days. Each episode is filled with laughter and wisdom. We learn more of each character, and, in a way, learn more about ourselves. Although the anime has a loose storyline, it still feels amazingly coherent, so overall, it doesn't take anything away from the anime at all.
The majority of the story is focused around Aoba Kozue, the cute young landlady of Narutaki-Sou. Although she is not the main character of the story, she is very unique and important to all the members of Narutaki-Sou including Shiratori, the main character and new tenant of the apartments. As the story progresses, we learn more of Kozue especially of her personality disorder. However, the way it is presented, Kozue's disorder doesn't seem like a burden, but rather a joy. Perhaps in some ways she may seem very naive at times, but her ability to make the best of everything and smile makes us smile as well.
The art and sound is nothing out of the ordinary. Generally, most will find that all of the characters are very cute (especially when eating umeboshi). The artwork it self is very pleasing to the eyes, and the silly 4-panel manga portion typically in the middle of an episode are often hilarious.
Overall, I really enjoyed this anime. If you like unique virtuous characters that make you laugh, I'd definitely recommend this anime. In any case, I would say, give it a shot. You won't regret it.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Nov 15, 2007
Pleasantly surprised. That is how I felt after watching this series. Unlike many of the other anime series I've watched, I actually started this one with a negative preconception, a misconception that is. After reading the story synopsis, I automatically thought the show was going to be dull. However, to be ever so cliche, I will say that the saying is true: you can't judge a book by its cover. In any case, I watched the first few episodes anyways out of curiousity, and I am happy I did.
Let's begin with the story. If you've read the synopsis, it
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is true. This is a story about a boy who ends up going to an all girls school, because it was his grandfather's dying wish. This seems ridiculous, and the fact is, it probably is. As far fetched as it is, this makes for some interesting situations. As far as a concrete storyline goes, I will tell you now, there's not really an intentional direction for this story. However, there is a structure to the story, and if asked, I would say that its a story about a boy growing up to understand himself and a little about his roots. Overall, however, I felt the story could have been a little better developed, so I only think it deserves a score of 6.
Next, examining the art, I must say, I am quite amused. The art was very beautiful and gave the story a light, warm welcoming feeling. I wouldn't say it's anything extraordinary, but I really enjoyed the art and colors used. The characters were also pretty well depicted; I even enjoyed the cute "minitures" used every so often. I gave this an enjoyable rating of an 8.
Sound- gorgeous. The music really hits the spot with the intention of this anime. The music sets the perfect mood: calm, light, and warm. If anything else, I must say I'm impress with how well the music set the atmosphere for this show. Never once did I feel the music disrupting the flow; it was always on cue. Definitely a 9.
Now this is where the anime shines, the characters. The character development is simply wonderful. Overall, I fell in love with all the characters. The way they are presented, their actions, their words, it all makes up for the lack of a strong storyline. Never once do you think the actions of the characters are exaggerated. Their dynamic personality is what makes this show with watching. I'm still contemplating the score I gave the story in this aspect, but being the harsh critic that I am, I give it a high 9.
Now, this is where I am truly amused. Despite all previous scores being below a 10, I can't help but to give an enjoyment rating of a perfect 10. I really enjoyed the this showed despite all odds. It is really a unique show. One of the other reasons why I enjoy it is because of how it stretches the limits of our minds. People are always restrained by societal expectations. Men should act like men, women as women; anything beyond this is ridiculed. However, this series goes to convey that people shouldn't be judged and labeled so. Stop categorizing people. You are you, and nothing more. This is how we see the main character. At first, we can't get over the fact that Mizuho is a boy dressed as a girl, but as the story progresses, we forget. Mizuho is a girl, no wait he's a guy, but then again, who cares? Mizuho is a virtuous person, whether he's a guy or a girl soon becomes frivolous.
If you're wondering on whether it is worth your time to watch this series, I would urge you yes. Despite how it looks, it's actually a really good show comparable to Fruits Basket, in my opinion. If you found that enjoyable, then you will definitely enjoy Otome wa Boku ni Koishiteru. With all the characters, the wonderful themes, and flowing music, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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