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Sep 8, 2017
Hai to Gensou no Grimgar or simply Grimgar felt like watching a water color painting come to life.
This anime is a real art piece that exists within its own little world.
Grimar works and feels like a high art more real version of Sword Art Online. The premise is similar, but it is a whole different animal all together.
With Grimgar we get no back story, no overall plot that they work towards. There are little references to what is really going on, but nothing more than that.
I think it's clear that Hal is the MC, but his party is just as important
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to the run of the show. We grow, rise and fall with the party. We witness them lose, we watch them struggle, we see them win, we see them grow to really appreciate each other, despite all their differences.
The pacing of the anime is gentle, with great steps of development taken along the way. There are no great leaps in skill and abilities over the run of the anime. It's all modest and honest, the growth feels real and organic. The party is scrappy, they argue, make mistakes, and we get to see all of that. The triumphs are few and far between but they are nonetheless very satisfying. It's soft with a good amount and good quality of action included. It's a great balance between light and dark.
This anime, under the mask of an RPG setup while being dressed up with the clean and simple art style, is about family or unity or companionship. It's about how these people despite their differences can come together to help one another succeed and survive in a place that is so rough and tough. Grimgar is a good watch, and even if there is no follow up, you'll appreciate the work that was done here.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Sep 8, 2017
DanMachi... yet another anime based on a fantasy world where dungeons are traversed as characters try to level up and become "heroes". Amid all the "fan service" stuff, which really isn't that much to be honest, DanMachi is quite a good show that delivers even with subject matter and plot that has been well traversed.
The appeal for DanMachi, and it's real charm doesn't come to fruition until about the middle of the season. The first few episodes are some what goofy, a little cringe. We are introduced to the world of families, guilds, parties, dungeons, gods and goddesses, monsters, and the characters that are
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trying to live in this world. The set up is simple, yet all over the place. There is no large exposition, no be explanation of everything that exists in this world, and frankly, it doesn't need any of that. The story focuses on the ascent of Bell Cranel from zero to hero and it was a great journey.
At first Bell and his goddess are sad to watch and kind of annoying, this only lasts for a few episodes however. As we get to see how weak Bell really is, this is the moment it all begins to turn around. We get to see Bell get stronger and stronger and it really is amazing. His growth isn't just reserved for him however. As he gets stronger, the story gets better, more people decide to join him, he is no longer a sorry boy for us to look down on, but a hero we can stand behind.
The story does progress quite rapidly, so I can understand why it is a bit absurd to see such a jump in Bell's abilities, but it doesn't make it any less fun to watch. The animation is quite amazing really. The fighting is immersive, it almost made want to throw a punch or two as I was watching.
The music is really complimentary and fitting as well. It feels like fantasy music and really amps up the moments as well. The series was really adept at making the big moments as large as possible while also making the slower quieter moments enjoyable.
The laughs come every now and again to fill the gaps with enough action to keep you going from week to week. I had originally dropped this anime because I thought it would be a harem, funny, fan service oriented anime, but it transitioned beautifully to an anime full of action about a kid who just wants to be the coolest hero around.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Sep 7, 2017
At this point in time, I don't think there are enough words that can be said about One Punch Man.
As standout from the season AND international popularity? It's quite a highlight from 2015.
One Punch Man was thrilling from beginning to end. From the art to the music to the writing of the anime to the character development. It was all superb, especially considering all the source material behind it. The concept was taken to the stars and beyond and we can't help but be glad that they gave us such a great anime.
The music was fitting for all the moments. It really fit the
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feel and atmosphere of the anime as a whole. The OP was great since it pumped up each episode SO SO much. Also, the placement of the OP during the major fights was also sensational. The music made you want to be a hero and you too might feel like you could punch a hole into anything as well.
The animation for the show was next level in my honest opinion. All of the movements are incredibly fluid and of the highest definition. The show centered on beings that have insane powers and I think the animation captured that incredibly well. The characters could be followed as they moved about and fought. I have to also tip my hat to the fight scenes in the show. They were simply sublime. They mixed the crisp full bodied animation that we grew accustomed to in the show but they also introduced sketchier drawing and art styles into the mix, not just for style points, but there were moments that when shown as very scrappy and sketchy line work and colors it drove home the intensity that much more. The animators were able to capture everything essential for a total package with regards to animating the fight scenes and epic moments.
Now, for the object that has been subject to much debate. I believe that the story was very fulfilling and had just about everything you could have asked for. It was the perfect marriage between comedy, action, and even some slice of life/philosophical points were thrown in. The jokes were spot on for me. The interplay between Saitama being an INCREDIBLY strong hero and yet looking like a second rate hero always had me laughing. At its core, it is simple, but the delivery worked throughout the show just because of how nonsensical everything else was. The way Saitama acquired his power, the powers of the other heroes, the monsters that would randomly show up... they all just come out of nowhere and that let's the comedy work really well. I also think the show works well putting all these elements together because the plot is very loose. There is an overarching story but it isn't really that deep. It works better as a "monster" or "scenario" of the week and for me that delivered. It kept it airy enough that these jokes that were told week after week really stuck and hit every time. Also, the action was allowed to be fluid as well. It was great to see again and again how the heroes really did underestimate themselves as well as the monsters and Saitama. The naive nature and inability to believe in one another felt very real and honest and I think that drove the whole show home.
There isn't much to say about the characters except they are all great. Saitama being OP and yet kind of a lame guy. Genos being such a cool yet incredibly naive cyborg. The supporting heroes add well to the dynamic as well. They aren't too complex and play their roles in the just the right amount. Again, because the story isn't that deep and each episode is able to be enjoyed separately, the characters don't need that much depth besides how they choose to interact with each other and with Saitama.
It was an incredible anime that had me anxious each week for new episodes. I am eagerly awaiting the 2nd season simply because this anime was put together extremely well. The packaging is incredible and with sprinkles of simplicity and dashes of brilliance, it has proven itself to be a real masterpiece.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Sep 5, 2017
It seems safe to say that this is what a lot of us have been waiting for since the end of last season.
Tournament Arc, Intern Arc, this season is here to please.
The season is coming to an end and it's been a thrill to watch it all thus far. There's been minimal filler episodes, which is something I am very happy about. We see the students develop their powers even more this season, and it's been especially satisfying to watch as Midoriya tries to master one for all.
The season jumped off to quick start with the introduction of the UA tournament which
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ran or about half of the season and it was heart racing stuff week to week. The introduction of the rest of the student body was a nice touch. It really went to show that although class A may indeed be the "best" of the first years, they are not alone. The fierce competition coming from the other classes was amazing.
As we got to the actually fighting, the elaboration and extent to all the powers was amazing to watch as well. For those who have been reading the manga, I'm sure they know exactly how everything plays out, but it has nonetheless been pure entertainment watching it all. The animation has exceed my expectation. All the powers pack so much more punch and it feels like even the studio has a better grasp on what it means to be a hero.
The intern arc was fulfilling as well. Yet another step up in the complexity of the story, introduction of more villains, elaborating on some of the other heroes as well was a nice touch.
Everything about this anime has grown and surpassed the first season. It is no wonder that is is immensely popular at the moment. It's a juggernaut and for obvious reasons.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Sep 5, 2017
Coming from Production IG who's track record we are all aware of, Ballroom e Youkoso is certainly a star in this packed summer 2017 season.
This run of sport and athletic anime being produced is really a joy for me to see. The diversity and vast approach all of them are taking and the care they are putting into portraying these different sports, it's something wonderful to see. Ballroom e Youkoso is a part of this wondrous run.
As far as the story goes, I am a little disappointed with regards to the setup. Fujita being a complete novice but yet holding some miraculous ability
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that goes beyond reason, Hyodou being an absolute beast on the floor. This is something we have seen time and again, but the show is charming enough to compensate for this well trodden road. The addition of Hanaoka, who is talented in her own right, as Hyodou's partner and the focus of Fujita's fancies, and then Sengoku, former superstar who is now a teacher, it feels a bit like a mashup in ideas between Haikyuu and Yuri on Ice. They all work well together, especially considering the fact that the anime is about dance.
Fujita's arc so far has been enjoyable, watching him and his growing desire to compete is quite admirable. His growth as a dancer is almost laughable but then there are moments where his internal brilliance shines through and you get caught off guard, just like the characters in the show.
I also appreciate that even though Fujita is the MC, the other pairs and members of the dance studio play such an integral part in his development. They aren't exactly a team but function as some sort of strange family with rivalries and desires to get better.
The animation of the show really sends it to the top in my honest opinion. The art exaggerates the postures and figures of everyone in the show, which makes the dancing feel that much more real. In real life, dancers are meant to be larger than life and this show captures that well. Everyone appears long, everything flows, it's all extremely dynamic, the steps are crisp and precise, the emotion shines through each movement. It really is a great example of how to animate an activity with such a range in movements, from little swings of the hip and sliding of the feet to leaps and quick steps in succession.
As the season progresses, I am eager to see more of the dancing, how it evolves and how all the students can overcome their own personal dilemmas through their dance of choice.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Sep 4, 2017
If there was ever a slow burn, Tokyo Ghoul is that. This first season of Tokyo Ghoul feels like watching someone light a stick of dynamite, waiting for it to blow, and then relishing in the satisfaction that comes from watching it go off.
The animation is very nice. The art is so great to look at. It's fitting of the shows theme, very dark when it needs to be and the gore elements are tasteful in use and execution. The fight scenes are high level as well. They really compliment the powers the ghouls have and fit in well in contrast to the humans
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that they face off with.
Kaneki's descent into the ghoul life is full of slips and bumps as he tries to adjust to all the new aspects. As far as the story is concerned, it takes a while for the plot to really develop into the beast that it will be in season 2. It isn't fun at all to see Kaneki struggle with the new life. The subplots of the series make the time pass a little more but up until the 9th or 10th episode the plot is a bit lackluster. There are some highlights however. There are moments when you see the changes that are happening to Kaneki and he really appears like a changed man. These moments are fleeting and far between, that is until the end of the anime.
The span of characters in the show is decent. Although Kaneki is undoubtedly the MC, the supporting cast doesn't feel that inferior. They all carry their weight and add so much more to the show. With Anteiku Kaneki is able to form a new family. It was nice watching Kaneki and Touka's relationship as well.
As mentioned before, we see Kaneki's descent into the life of a ghoul and it really is a beautiful sight to see him fully realize his powers in the end. The battle between him and Jason is one of my favorite moments of all time. The music placement was perfect, the dialogue was layered and full of personality fitting of the moment. The terror and triumph of the scene is unparalleled. The best thing this scene does is blast the door open on what season 2 holds. The show gave itself room to blossom and grow and that what this show does best.
Tokyo Ghoul is a mature anime that really illustrates the evolution of a kid who besides fighting with actual ghouls and people trying to kill him, he is fighting his new found nature and is battling for his own humanity. It's a charming watch and worth every minute.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Sep 4, 2017
Yeah, with Barakamon, I don't think my heart has ever felt so full.
There's nothing that's ever worked better as a plot device than redemption and finding your roots again. With Barakamon we get just that.
Handa's fall from grace was great to watch. It was a scenario many people of his age, myself included, can sympathize with. The idea that older people decide if we succeed or not and don't even understand is always frustrating, I know I got that struggle on a daily basis.
As Handa tries to find his roots during his exile, the story of Barakamon truly comes to life. The rural
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village is the perfect setting not only for him to perfect his craft but to humble himself and become someone worth cheering for. The major elements of the plot are quite predictable as a whole. The meddling kids who don't know how to stay away, Handa's growing love for the place that has seemed so annoying to him, his departure, his return, his rise after his fall from grace with his own identity in the calligraphy world intact, it isn't anything new, but it still works. The story still packs a punch and really hits you where it hurts.
The characters are likable and you come to love them as they become a huge part of Handa's growth. Naru Kotoishi has to be one of the cutest kids in anime to hold such a big art in it. I believe this dynamic is one that is almost foolproof and is growing in popularity. The big brother little sister dynamics works wonders.
The art is great all around. It's warm, bright, welcoming. It shed light on the world of calligraphy that I had no idea about and really add in highlighting some of the genius and madness that comes from the art form.
At just 12 episodes, the story comes and goes like the breeze and at the end you are left fulfilled and full of love and hope, if you're into that sort of thing. Barakamon is worth the watch, full of joy and happiness with hints of sadness, all of it in proper proportions. You won't regret watching this one.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Sep 4, 2017
Afro Samurai is a peculiar anime. An enjoyable, wild ride if there ever was one. At only 5 episodes it is does a lot with very little.
The story is that of a typical revenge story. There's also the subplot of the fight for the headbands to be the best of the world. They aren't too complex and are simply vehicles for the rest of the ridiculous and non sensical elements that follow the rest of the anime.
The show is full of action, every episode, from start to finish. The fight scenes are pretty nice, clean and crisp. They are a bit over the
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top but it adds to the rest of the anime. It's all a little strange and some of the fighters and their weapons just come out of nowhere. Also, sometimes some of the fighters, such as Afro and some of the bosses he faces, are ridiculously OP. I mean, we have samurais, cowboys, Android bears, rocket launchers, the list goes on and on.
We get a bit of a backstory which is decent, but not entirely necessary for some of the anime. It is ridiculous enough to just accept the characters and the actions they take as they come.
I forgot to mention Afro's conscious that lingers around as well. He's one of the high points. A nice comedic foil, considering the anime is quite serious, dark, mature, and outright gory.
If you are able to watch Afro for what it is, forgoing a deep coherent story and instead enjoying the ridiculous, action packed, gut busting side of it. It's sheer entertainment through and through.
It's also one of the best dubbed anime out there. The voice acting is pretty nice and it all fits and doesn't feel out of place or cringe-worthy like most other dubs.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Sep 4, 2017
Psycho-Pass has really set the bar for how good, deep, and thrilling an anime really can be. This show is a masterpiece all around and could be considered on any list of Best Anime.
I'd like to discuss the simpler things before getting into what makes the anime truly something to be cherished and revered.
The art and animation are beautiful, no contest. The colors are dark and full of weight. It's all crisp and clean especially considering the huge sci-fi/futuristic aspects to it. The tech is seamless and fits in perfectly with all the other elements. Nothing feels out of place. It feels futuristic
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and so far from us, yet everything is familiar. The gory elements seem out of this world, but are a nice touch. It really adds to the overall tone present in the show.
The music and the soundtrack are yet other high points. The score fits in perfectly as well. It amplifies the moments and really gets you pumped to see the police get to work. The OP and ED are great too. I found myself going to listen to them after the anime ended.
The story is a work of art as well. It's dark, is full of complex themes and ideas. The dystopian futuristic setting where people are judged by their capacity to become criminals is genius. It's a system that seems just because it boils down how good of a person you are to a single number, but in that fact it seems indeed flawed which makes the show that much more intriguing. The complex system that is an enigma in and of itself that calls you to question what it means to be human and what it means to be good or evil. The anime does a really good job of presenting these questions along side the plot as it unfolds. You come to question the system in the show and even question the motivations and action of the characters. The plot also made the transition from the weekly case model to the single case that is the real problem seamlessly. Each episodes is a steady descent that takes us closer and closer to real story. Is the Sybil system, the omnipresent God-Like, judge, jury, and executioner , really something that should exist? You will find yourself questioning this as the show carries on.
The dialogue is smart and is much more advanced than most police shows. The words of the characters amp up all the situations as well. The conversations feel authentic and aren't contrived or fake in the slightest.
The easy highlight besides the story are the characters. There aren't enough words for how well crafted they all are. From the villain, to the enforcers, to the inspectors. They all mesh and work together so well to add to the feeling that things may not be all well with this "infallible" justice system. The trifecta of Kougami, Makashima, and Tsunemori are jewels that shine brighter than the rest. With Kougami and Makashima we see two sides of the same coin. Their motivations are similar, they are foils to each other really. You see that in their Psycho-Pass scores, the colors of their hair, their actions, their demeanors. It's the almighty class of light and dark. And then there is Tsunemori. She may seem like someone who is much too idealistic or naive or simply disillusioned with the ways of the world, but she is a necessary element to the dynamic between Kougami and Makishima as well as the dynamic between the fight for and against the Sybil system. Tsunemori grounds everything and constantly questions whether anything either of the two sides is doing is the right thing. She questions Makishima and Kougami equally. Kougami and Makishima believe almost too much in one thing while Tsunemori believes in nothing, well nothing isn't exactly correct, but her beliefs lie somewhere in between the two ends of the spectrum.
Makishima is easily one of the best villains to come of an anime in a while. The cool, calm, collected nature of his is enviable. The white hair, his style, the way he carries himself. He's intelligent, not an insane maniac, and really captivating. In many ways this is a typical characterization of a villain we can sympathize with, but with the setting of the rest of the show, he comes off as one in a million and genius at that.
Tsunemori is also one of the best MC's I've had a chance to watch. Especially as a woman, her depth is unfathomable and most of the cliches anime gives women don't apply to her. She comes off as a real person rather than an anime character at points and that really makes her shine. She kind of lies beyond the bounds of what it means to exist in this anime. She is again and again able to exceed, doubt, and fight for this world that she exists in.
This anime is the epitome of what it means for an anime to be "Good". It has all the right elements put together in the proper fashion for this to succeed. it's an anime everyone should watch, whether this is something you'd tune into or not. It's got everything anyone could hope for in an anime or any form of entertainment really.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Sep 4, 2017
Isekai Shokudou may be one of the most "feel good" anime of the season. We see the real power that food can have over people.
What the show does really well is display the joy that comes from eating food. The experience of ordering food, having it arrive, dissecting it with your eyes, and then tasting everything that comes on your plate. It is a beautiful experience and with Isekai Shokudou, we get just that. Every week is a new happiness as someone gets to experience their favorite for the first time again and again.
The anime does so much with little set up or overly
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complex plot lines. We do get a bit of an origin story, which allows us to become familiar with the patrons of Nekoya, and those backstories are just enough to help us understand the other characters in the show. I'm glad the show so far hasn't tried anything over the top, such as trying to explain why the restaurant shows up every week. The simplicity of the show adds to the beauty of it. It's about how despite all the different experiences and walks of life that makes up these characters, the single experience of enjoying food connects them all.
The pacing of the show is good. I feel we are learning about the MC, the chef I presume, while we also learn about the people he serves food to.
The art is good as well, your typical anime food, which does indeed look amazing. I walk away hungry after every episode.
The music is also another high point for the anime. The soundtrack is quite nice, really amplifying the overall experience. The music played as the characters eat their food for the first time has to be one of the most beautiful compositions this season.
So far Isekai Shokudou is enjoyable from beginning to end and I walk away with a smile every time. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a lighter, nicer anime to kill time with, you won't regret it.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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