Dec 21, 2015
What does it take to become the strongest? More importantly, what does it mean to be a hero?
Some would say through talent, others would say through strict training and determination; sheer force of will and aspiration to be the best. A certain someone has definitely achieved such power, but he's facing a very striking dilemma: He has become too strong.
One Punch Man is an action/comedy that does not hold back in either fronts. Not only that, but the world is filled to the brim with hilariously creative and absurd characters, each with their own charm and personalities that relentlessly poke fun at Shōnen character tropes.
...
The anime's titular character, Saitama, has achieved such awesome strength that he finds no challenge in any adversary he faces, thus finding life itself dull and disengaging. This personality coupled with his godlike strength produces comedic effect that, in certain situations and encounters, leaves me holding my sides in laughter.
The animation of this adaptation is most impressive. Not a single wasted or useless frame is used and each shot conveys the feel of the situation. No shortcuts, no cheap CGI. You can really tell the animators were passionate about animating this thing, and I think it's a beautiful display of artistic talent and choreographic direction. It takes a keen eye to notice the little things the animators did, and it's those little things that makes the animation especially memorable.
The color palette is bright and engaging. There is never a moment where there is a misuse of colors and I especially appreciate the direction in coloring the characters as they are absolutely a treat to look at.
The sound and music are exciting and really accentuate every situation. I also appreciate the absolutely amazing opening track. It really sets the awesome and over-the-top nature of the show.
As I stated above, each character has their unique charm. Even those who only make their appearance in a single episode to serve as Saitama's subject of immensely powerful punches (and slaps), they still leave behind a charming memory that a lot of people will come to appreciate.
An important aspect of the anime is indeed its comedy, and it does not fail to provide laughs with smart jokes and hidden puns. Some people are off-put by its deceptively simple premise: A guy who is unfathomably strong is a carrier of a laid-back personality and continuously 1-hit KO's seemingly powerful opponents. What needs to be further understood is that this premise is merely a baseline. In no way is it the "gag" of the show that repeats itself, it is merely a characteristic of the main character. The comedic elements come into play when certain situations arise. Some are subtle and some are abrupt, and Saitama's duality serves the function as the lighting rod for these elements, turning into hilarious outcomes.
I enjoy this anime very much. I am an avid fan of the anime and the webcomic, and I am very pleased with the adaptation. I can only wait to see the look on everyone's face when the Garou Arc is adapted. Only then will people truly understand what it means to be a hero.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
