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Well, let me start off by saying that this review will cover all three Saint Beast series: the original, six episode spin off of Angel Tales (Saint Beast: Seijuu Kourin Hen), the OVAs (Saint Beast: Ikusen no Hiro to Yoru Hen), and the thirteen episode series (Saint Beast: Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan).

Saint Beast was one of the first shounen ai (boys love) animes I ever saw, which might be part of the reason why it holds a special place in my heart. The plot revolves around six angels referred to as the "Saint Beasts" and their trials on earth and in Heaven, as well ... as their relationships with one another. The story line is confusing and hard to follow if you don't do any research before hand, but once you get into the series, it's very difficult not to get addicted to it.

I will say that I am among the critics that say that the first, six episode series of fandom (titled Saint Beast: Seijuu Kourin Hen) is complete and utter crap. It does not follow the established canon (and thus is not entirely necessary to understand the plot, though I will begrudgingly admit that certain plot points in it can help clear up a little confusion), and is quite frankly not worth the time it takes to watch it.

However, the two OVAs (titled Saint Beast: Ikusen no Hiro to Yoru Hen) and the second, 13 episode series (titled Saint Beast: Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan) are very well done. The two OVAs are fairly light in nature and deal with how the six main characters of the series met in Heaven, but towards the end begin to introduce the much darker conflict that drives Saint Beast: Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan.

In addition to being somewhat confusing, this anime is also very dark at times, and deals with, what may be for some, ideologically sensitive material (i.e. homosexual relationships between angels, evil god, etc.). Also, if you are looking for hard core, boyxboy action, you will not find it in this anime, as the most any of the couples do is hug.

However, this anime is, without a doubt, one of my absolute favorites, due it's fascinating (if at times, one-dimensional) characters; interesting and unpredictable plot; and complex romantic relationships that will, at times, have you tearing at your hair in frustration while yelling "Just f-ing kiss already!" and at the same time make you sigh at the absolute adorableness of it all. So yes, I highly reccomend this anime to anyone looking for a good shounen ai with a great plot.

I really cannot think of enough good things to say about this anime! The story is wonderful (if a little cliched at times), the characters are believable and hilarious, and the art is absolutely breathtaking!

The best part of this anime, however, has got to be the main character, Yuki. Despite the fact that he has no defensive or offensive powers of his own, he refuses to sit on the sidelines and let others defend him. And, unlike most heroes/heroines in his position, he is not completely helpless. He is very skilled in the martial arts, and utilizes that skill to the fullest!

Overall, this ... anime is completely spectacular, and I reccomend it to anyone who wants fantasy, adventure, romance (with more than a little shounen ai), and humor, all rolled into one!

This anime has got to be, without a doubt, one of the most brilliant period dramas I've ever seen! The story is incredible, and the character are believable and inspire empathy and sympathy from the viewer. On the whole, it is a masterpiece of pure genius!

That being said, Hakuouki, like all great anime, is not without its faults; the most glaring one being the complete and utter helplessness of the main female lead, Chizuru.

Despite the fact that she carries a sword with her, and claims to have some knowledge and skill in its use, she has never once been proven capable of defending ... herself. She is always being protected by the men of the story and, while her helplessness may seem endearing to some, it merely serves to annoy me.

Also, because the anime is based off of a video game, there are certain gaps in the plot at times. Nothing big enough to seriously confuse the viewer, but enough that one may get the impression that they are missing something.

However, these minor flaws pale in comparison to the sheer awesomeness that is this anime. It is both heart breakingly sweet and tragic, as well as being funny and happy. I recommend it whole heartedly!