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Jul 18, 2014
Alternate review (Spoilers and Realism ahead):
The short version, it's a homage to it's production "parent" Gurren Lagann; with a mainly female cast because just having one woman provide all the fan-service was not good enough for the next step.
Before I write the long version, I cannot take credit for some of this interpretation (read elsewhere, sorry I cannot source); but I agreed with it and will repeat it here.
The story can also be seen as an allegory for a femininity in the teenage years, disguised in familiar Shonen tropes so that the male audience don't feel like they are watching The View. Her outfit
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requires blood and show cases her feminine parts. This seems to reference puberty with periods and physical development of more feminine traits.
Being a tomboy character, she's clearly embarrassed by this. She cannot utilize her outfits true power until she accepts herself. This can be seen as acceptance of the changes and realizing the "power" that a woman gains from maturity. The power is displayed physically and not psychologically, though the male parts of the cast largely appreciate her changes.
The latter part of the series (this part is all mine) is also an allegory for growing up and becoming your own person (Ryoko's theme song even says "don't lose your way).
Though never exhibited and exploited in the crass way most shows would; Ryoko clearly shows lesbian tendencies; outlined clearly by the ending that features her going on a date with Mako. The fact that Mako has vocally admired Ryoko physically and that Mako is the only person who can reach Ryoko when she's not in control of herself (the seki gauntlet that is essentially slicing her wrists so she can transform, makes it analogous to a girl who is self-harmful). All things considered, it's handled tastefully.
There's also her association with the "La Resistance": the organization called Nudist Beach. The group's skimpy attire is played for visual laughs, but is also an illustration of rejecting society's norms and mores.
Another scene reinforces this, when Ryoko is brainwashed by Ragyo. The false memories of growing up wearing proper uniforms and the wedding clothes where the groom is one of the life fibers (society's avatar). In the real world, Nui questions if she still seeks her original mission (avenging her father but think of it allegorically). She grabs Nui, kisses her, and then shoves her away. A rejection of her sexuality and preferences.
Her mother represents parental, and society's, disapproval of her lifestyle. Ragyo (the mother) wants everyone to dress a certain way, is opinionated about acting a certain way, and impressing others (the life fibers taking the place of other adults who might judge the family). The rather creepy yuri scenes with both daughters represents the pressure a parent can put on a yound adult, a violating of their inner-selves, of who they are. The creep factor is really squick in these scenes, but the numerous Ragyo cosplays with a "Best Mom Ever" mug are priceless.
Satsuki's case is similar. At first she's the "proper daughter". Popular in school, well-mannered, the heir apparent. The conflict between them is the conflict when a parent prefers one child over the other. Satsuki's rebellion against Ragyo is the rejection of a mother who discarded her husband and other daughter to keep the acceptance of others. It's her own fight to define herself as she wishes.
This motive is reinforced in the end scene as well; when Ryoku and Mako meet Satsuki during their date and she has cut her hair short. That's an allegory for Satsuki's support for her sister's lifestyle choices.
So guys , feel like you watched so much Lifetime that you could lactate? Don't worry; this series has plenty for the male audience. Tons of near nudity, gainaxing boobs, and explosions to keep your testosterone from trying to go into witness protection. Just tell yourself that it's not about women fighting over clothes LOL
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Jul 18, 2014
Alternate viewpoint review: (SPOILERS and REALISM follows)
Naruto is a young boy being raised in a Dystopian society where young children are trained to become assassins.
The nations of the world sponsor shinobi villages where the self-ran villages each train a significant portion of the populace to become shinobi in the interest of securing income for that village.
Naruto grows up in the Village Hidden in the Leaves, the first of the villages founded; and based upon the "Will of Fire" philosophy that puts village and the next generation ahead of the individual.
They are certainly the "good guys" compared to the Mist Village where the children once ritualistically
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killed each other to achieve adulthood.
At the start of the series, Naruto is an orphan who is also social outcast in his own village; for he had a 9-tailed fox (a powerful being who has caused many disasters in the past) placed into him as a baby. Despite this being a village where freakish "jutsus" (including infesting your body with parasitic insects, and supernatural abilities of illusion and murder) are the norm, Naruto is shunned for choices he did not make.
Motivated to gain respect and acceptance amongst the people (with an absentee Godfather who's off womanizing, he has no support at home), Naruto seeks to become a great ninja and leader of the village.
A lousy student, Naruto steals villages secrets to pass his studies and finds himself on a team with his rival Sasuke (an emo boy who only talks about murdering his brother), Sakura (infatuated with Sasuke, because murderous emos who ignore and belittle you are the hot item in this messed up village); and led by Kakashi; a man who lost all his teammates in battle and has been a black ops assassin ever since.
The group trains and progresses. Naruto progresses by tapping into the dark forces of the fox and by transforming into a naked, prepubescent girl to gain training from his neglectful godfather (who was supposed to train him to begin with).
Sakura relies on passive-aggressive tendencies and is generally useless until much later; despite being a genius. (good moral; Brains are useless, you just need to try hard to get everything)
Sasuke relies heavily upon his family's legacy, eyes that allow him to learn jutsus and understand them naturally; that and years of murderous hate.
The team faces their first struggle when they learn that the evil Orochimaru, a great former ninja of their village, seeks Sasuke's body. At least they acknowledge something wrong with a man in his 60's proclaiming he needs a pubescent teenagers body.
Rather than react to the creepy stalker and take action, they instead go on about business as usual; and the result is a terroristic attack where Orochimaru assassinates the Hokage (the village leader and his former teacher).
During this, Naruto squares off against Gaara; another boy who had a monster placed into him. Due to a brutal mindfucking by his own father, Gaara is a homicidal maniac (and unreliable assassin, nice job breaking it Kazekage!) but has his worldview shattered when Naruto proclaims he's fighting for his friends and defeats Gaara. Sure, the fact that Naruto's monster has 9 tails and Gaara's only has 1 (a measurement of power) had nothing to do with it...
Naruto then sets out with Pervy Sage (the aforementioned Godfather) to find a woman who should be the next Hokage. The woman is Tsunade, a woman who is a compulsive gambler, frequent drinker, and spends a great deal of power to look over 30 years younger than she is. Apparently these are great leadership qualities in this world!
Then, as if to underline Naruto's arguments about the quality of friendship; Sasuke betrays them to run off and join Orochimaru to gain power, ignoring all the people he's killed and is offers his body in exchange for power.
Sakura, always the team player, gets Naruto to vow to return Sasuke to the village; a move that puts both their lives at risk. Enforcing the immature, "treat broads like crap, and they love you" philosophy at play.
Much more happens, but basically Naruto has to deal with the fact that all the people in this world are permanently scarred (raising children to murder...nah, can't have anything to do with it right?) and is able to win people over to brighter point of view by just being a swell guy...or he kills them.
Summary: It's actually a great series, but I figure almost everyone who's into anime has seen or heard about this series. I felt it was important to illustrate that this series is VERY disturbing once you get passed the silly Shonen antics.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Mar 28, 2011
It's a tribute to the original manga's author, Ken Akamatsu, that he took a commissioned work like this and made it so compelling.
On the surface it's Harry Potter in a harem anime; and it could have went there an stayed there.
Instead we have a continuing evolving plot-line involving a regular cast consisting of over 30 characters; all of whom drive the plot with complex motivations and backgrounds..
This series roughly follows the manga for the first 21 episodes, then veers off into an original emotional rollercoaster finale that allows for a satisfying end of the anime.
Story: The story starts out simple enough. Orphan boy
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wizard wants to become a great wizard like his father was. It gets original when he's chosen to be a teacher at an all girls middle school to complete his wizardry training, but he must do it while keeping his mage status secret (which he repeatedly fails at). The fact that many of the girls are outright Shota-cons is a little silly, but it ups the fun quotient at the same time.
The story moves along but some of the episodes are silly, like the "dramatic" dodgeball fight.
The anime's original ending is quite emotional, but really hooks you into it.
Art: The art is simplistic, even compared to the sequel series. The drawing is almost minimalist and they didn't go to any special efforts to wow the viewer. The art was pretty forgettable.
Sound: This anime's weakest link. It was never inappropriate or ill-fitting; but it was entirely forgettable and the opening was almost trite in it's childishness.
Character: It's the characters that drive this show and make it fun. The main character Negi has a class of 31 students, all of them interesting and unique. They all have different hobbies, histories, motivations, and secrets (a WHOLE lot of secrets).
I can't go into too much detail since I could take up pages.
Negi and Asuna (the boy wizard and the student who first finds out about his abilities) are the primary protagonists. Negi is well written, but rather simplistic (he's only 10) as well. Most of the humor of the series is him getting into trouble either through magic or through the attentions (not always appropriate) of his students.
Asuna is the type of character who doesn't exist outside of animes. Overhyper, super fast and strong, and hot-tempered. She develops more character as time goes on and gains more backstory.
One can't mention characters in Negima without a huge shoutout to an early antagonist turned protagonist, Evangeline Anastasia "Kitty" McDowell. Vampire Girls are nothing new to anime. Even vampire girls who dress in (even called this by the character herself in the manga) "Goth Loli" are nothing new (disturbing).
Yet you never see one have as much fun playing the villain. Naturally in an anime like this she secretly is a sweet girl, but she outright enjoys being one of the badguys. She doesn't bring the usual skycap of vampire angst to the party; making no excuses for who she is and what she has done. The only sappy part is her crush on Negi's father, but even their interaction was humorous.
Enjoyment: Despite a few "dud" episodes, this show is very enjoyable. With a lot of humor and some satisfying action at times; the overall experience is very positive and emotional at times.
Overall: I highly recommend this series. Though it can get a little sappy at times, it's a fun watch with something for everyone.
Pros: Huge cast with great storylines and they are all unique and even poke fun at some classic stereotypes. Very funny in places but can get serious at times; giving a good mix of humor, drama, and action.
Cons: Follows the manga which developed slowly and you are left wanting more that is never delivered (sequel series is an original script with more comedy). The artwork is nothing amazing and the soundtrack is a dud.
Lastly the ending episodes is an emotional cartwheel, with some of the saddest scenes I've ever seen in an anime, followed by a dramatic reversal for the expected happy ending.
If one is looking for a similar story with a lighter plot, I recommend the sequel "Negima!?" which has a lot more comedy while sacrificing character development.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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Apr 4, 2009
Dracula, calling himself Alucard for those with delicate sensibilities, has been "tamed" by the descendants of Abraham Van Hellsing and is tasked with hunting down other vampires. It's 1999 and the Hellsing organization finds itself facing an foe it thought destroyed, the Third Reich's Last Battalion and it's insane leader The Major.
That's the short take, watch it if you want the whole story.
Story: This is not the same as the TV series though you will notice similarities. That's because there were only 2 out of 10 volumes of the manga out when they did the TV series. This OVA will eventually encompass
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the entire plot of the manga. The original story is a masterpiece, a work of brilliance that took almost 10 years for Kouta Hirano to complete. The story is definately dark and not upbeat, but Hirano's sometimes quirky humor shows through. At the end of OVA 4 Alucard is tearing another vampire to shreds slowly, painfully, and bathing in it's dying blood. You rejoin Alucard at the beginning of the 5th OVA and he's having a bizarre dream where Bruce Willis (yes the actor) is warning him about a hidden threat.
It's that original.
Art: The artwork is actually the one glowing disappointment for me. At times the drawing seems rushed, and they added in some CGI scenes that are also low quality. I will add that most of the poor quality was in the 1st OVA and it gets better.
Sound: The soundtrack is very fitting, being at times ominous and at other times almost quirky and jazzy. What makes this stand out is the fantastic voice acting in the dub (I'm judging this by the dub). All of the characters have excellent and authentic accents, and even Crispin Freeman does credible Eurotrash in a flashback (Eurotrash being that crappy fake transylvanian accent in B-movies).
Character: While the villains of the story are simplistically two-dimensional, the main characters are very complex individuals. Alucard can be a perfect gentleman to the queen one minute, and then tear a SWAT team to shreds later. Sir Integra is unflinching in her duty and has an iron resolve, but is not oblivious to human suffering and feels protective over Seras. Even Seras, who seems simplistic at first, has a tragic past and a will to live that is strong.
You can't understand all about any one character from just one episode, you must see them all to begin to.
Enjoyment: The story is fast moving and very enjoyable to watch. I didn't give it a 10 though because the story lingers over some very graphic violence. Alucard slowly torturing Rip Van Wrinkle and the Millenium's attack on London are grotesque and disturbing.
Overall: More than any anime I've ever seen, this is one I'd like to see made into an American movie. Yeah, they'd butcher it but you know what I mean. This is a visually compelling thriller that doesn't pull any punches.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Apr 2, 2009
I'm writing this review about episode 1-13 of the original OVAs.
The last 7 episodes were written in order to accomodate the GXP storyline and were created over 10 years later, so I personally consider them almost a separate series.
This is my favorite anime...period. I know I'm not in the majority on this, but it succeeds on every level. It is the definitive "harem" anime, while maintaining a great plot and fascinating universe/backstory. The fact that each of the women have complex and fascinating pasts and facets to their character is something unique to this genre. It's heartwarming, romantic, raunchy,
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funny, dramatic, and even is a mystery at times.
Story: The story starts with Tenchi, mischievous grandson of a shrinekeeper, stealing the keys to the shrine from his grandpa. He then explores a cave that family lore claims to house a "demon". Of course he accidentally frees the demon which sets into motion a complex series events that involves all the great powers of the universe. As Noike mentions in the 3rd OVA, the Masaki household rates as a galatic superpower by the end of the series. The interesting question is, how much of this did Grandpa plan out?
Art: Done in the mid-90's it's cel animation. That being said it's beautifully animated though the characters sometimes are simple looking due to the style at the time. All of them are uniquely animated, wear different outfits and hairstyles which helps show the attention to detail.
Sound: Nothing to rock out to, but it all works. I have to add that the original voice acting english cast was great, and funimation really screwed up with the 3rd OVA and will burn in the fiery pits for the abomination of the GXP crossover.
Character: The main character is Tenchi, high school student and usually studious, courteous, and not very rebellious except for the carefully nutured interest in the cave. In true anime teen fashion, he acts a perfect gentleman around the ladies and though not oblivious to their charms, he refuses some very blatant offers
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Now for the ladies:
Ryoko, the demon from the cave and former space pirate. She's linked to her ship/ pet cabbit (rabbit/cat) Ryo-Ohki and has quite the interesting pedigree from both parents. She's the first to fall for Tenchi and is very aggressive in her affection for him. Washu implies that her aggressive sexuality is a front to protect her sensitive feelings for Tenchi.
Ayeka, is the pampered princess of Jurai who arrives on Earth to arrest Ryoko; but instead ends up her primary rival for his affections. Presenting herself as younger and more proper than Ryoko, it's often hinted that her mind isn't as chaste as her act.
Sasami, is Ayeka's younger sister. Despite being the youngest in the house, she often displays the most maturity. She bonds quickly with Ryo-Ohki and cooks most of the meals for the household. All this while holding back a secret that she fears will tear her from the others.
Mihoshi, the hapless GXP policeperson. Referred to by Washu as a "genius of pure luck". She's clumsy and not very diligent in her duties but her luck seems to land her in trouble and good fortune simultaneously. She plays the dumb blond of the group, but her forthright nature wins many over. She's somewhat interested in Tenchi, but isn't focused enough to compete with the highly competitive duo of Ryoko and Ayeka.
Lastly there is Washu. Washu is in her own words "so many things really..." some of these include being Ryoko's mother, the greatest scientific mind in the universe, and the one person who sees all that is going on behind the scenes. It's a measure of her self-confidence and maturity that she does not blow everyone's secrets out of the water take control. She has some designs on Tenchi, even shedding her disguise as a young girl and returning to adult form to offer to bear his child. Of course he declines, and she remains in her guise from there on. It's never stated, but her interest in Tenchi is mostly scholarly and only acts romantically interested to keep Ryoko and Ayeka on their toes.
It's clear that the storytellers intended to include some traits of the ideal woman in each of the women, but also included flaws that prevented that.
Enjoyment: As I said before, this series strength lies in a great plot and rich world for the characters to interract in. The story never stagnates and the few times things slow down is to reveal a great deal about one of the characters. The blend of action and comedy goes well together and the rapidly expanding plot never leaves the viewer bored.
Overall: I've yet to see an anime do so much with so little. The closest I've seen yet is Code Geass, but it's apples and oranges to this. Just when you think you understand everything about a character they reveal a new leaf...well Mihoshi is pretty straightforward and Tenchi's dad is pretty much a middle-age perv. Everyone else though not only reveals their past, but also grow and change during the series. My fav character is Ryoko, as with many other people. She displays a depth of character and obviously is head over heels for Tenchi but has a very hard time showing him how she really feels.
I would recommend this to anyone! I will mention that the uncensored version can be risque at times (Ryoko isn't familiar with nudity taboos) so I qualify everyone as everyone over 17.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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Apr 2, 2009
I recently rewatched this anime so it's a great time to write a review on it while it's still fresh in my memory.
First thing to explain, this is anime manages the razor's edge of being both serious and a satire. It is a rather biting satire of space animes and particularly the gundam series of anime. This is all done subtle however, in the background while a (mostly) serious plot continues and the Earth's protectors fight against other worldly invasion.
The effort succeeds greatly and this anime was a great hit in Japan when it was released but didn't enjoy much success
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in the US.
Story: The story starts with the Earth's military getting beaten badly by the attacking Jovian forces. Fed up with the military's ineptitude, Nerghal Heavy Industries commissions and launches the battleship Nadesico. Being a private corporation they use unorthodox criteria in recruiting the crew. Using technology on par or even better than the Jovians, the Nadesico enters the fight, dealing with the enemy, a very jealous regular military, a popular anime show that seems to both mimic and mock events as they occurs, and of course the many neuroses and quirks of it's own crew.
Art: Animated when Cel animation was still the method of choice, it can look older than it is. This maybe partly intentional however since many of the animes it spoofing are from the 80's (Robotech, Starblazers, Gundam)
Sound: Using a dramatic soundtrack throughout the course of the show really helps The theme song, "You get to Burning", is a classic of course.
Character: The storyline is overall pretty serious, so it's up to the characters to drive the satire; which they do beautifully.
The main character is Akito Tenkawa. He joins the crew after encountering Yurika, the ship's captain and childhood friend, and seeks questions concerning a past mystery. Akito joins as a cook on the ship, but is repeatedly required to fill in as part-time robot pilot (called an Aestevalis). He's also a rabid fanboy of the anime "Gekigainger". The anime within an anime is a subtle jab at giant robot animes, even to the point where there is an episode where the Gekigainger cast is watching Nadesico.
The other main character, Yurika, is a nod to female anime characters that have very important responsibilities but still act like little girls around a love interest (in this case Akito). Her obsession with him continues throughout the series.
It's really an ensemble cast that makes this work, but the 3rd essential character is Ruri (also called Ruri Ruri). A young girl who is very smart, but also very droll and fond of calling everyone idiots. She narrates the plot and also acts as the voice of sanity. It's her calm analysis that keeps the rest of the crew on task, and also makes the rest of them seem that much more wacky. Even the "serious" characters seem zany compared to the grounded Ruri.
Enjoyment: The dual-purpose of the anime can also lose the viewer, otherwise I'd give it a 10. The shifts from humor, satire, to seriousness can be sudden and jarring. There's also some satire of "harem" animes as Akito is pursued by at least 3 of the female crewmembers, to the dismay of his "immature" personality. This often leads to many joke of the rest of the crew demanding he send them there way if he doesn't want them.
Overall: This would be a decent anime if they had decided to play it straight, but the satire of it makes it a classic. A lot of the humor is subtle and understated. For instance, in one episode Akito is stranded on the moon and is waiting to get picked up by the ship. The woman at the restaurant calls it "the Yamato" and her husband corrects her. Of course this references the ship from "Starblazers" (I'm using the US title, I know that's not the original name). It's all the small things like that, that makes this one a gem.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Mar 29, 2009
The series brings some new things, and repeats some old weaknesses to the storytelling. I'm assuming that anyone reading this has seen at least some of the original series, so please do so if you have not before reading this.
Story: Just as there was a timeskip and gap between series in the anime, the author took a slight break between the two series too. Which places the studio in an awkward position of when to start releasing the anime series and what pace to set. Afterall, the reason for almost 100 filler episodes in the original series was to give the
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manga author time to work. Even then they are catching up frighteningly fast and are already beginning to "pepper" in a couple of filler arcs. Unlike the old filler arcs however, these segue nicely into the original plot and don't stand out as much as the old ones did.
As for what happens, it picks up as Naruto returns to Konoha after 2 and a half years of training with Jiraiya. I will say that I'm somewhat dissappointed with how little he's improved. Pervy Sage must be a slack-off because the other characters seem to have improved a lot more than Naruto has (even though he's all around stronger, faster, etc.). He's matured a little, but of course that leaves room for improvement. As Jiraiya stated before filler hell settled in during the first series, he intended them to return right as Akatsuki would begin to move and Sasuke's life would be in potential danger. That prediction is dead on as after he is back less than a day Akatsuki begins it's quest to capture all the "jinchuriki" (ninja who have tailed beasts within them) starting with Gaara.
You can go on your own from there.
Art: The world seems less...fresh than it did in the first series. They, so far mind you, have stuck to the seemingly endless woods around Konoha and a brief foray in the lands of the Sand Village (Sonagakure). The difference in character design is fascinating, all due to the original author of course. Both Sai and Yamato are intriguing for their lack of distinguishing features. While all the other characters are as notable for their looks as their personalities. Of course all the original young ninja have matured, all hanging around ~15 yo by the looks of things. The differences are largely subtle and well done.
Sound: This is the biggest letdown. Not because it's poor quality, but because it's always the same 3 tracks playing. There is no variety in music and the same "Battle/danger" music plays all the time. The variety of music from the first series is gone and that is sad because the original Naruto has an excellent soundtrack.
Character: Naruto is much the same, but tempered with maturity in that he is able to understand others (except Sakura of course) much better. He is still obsessed with rescuing Sasuke, and is still reckless and rash. He seems especially stagnated in comparison to the others who have all become Chunin and even Jonin. Naruto does show maturity when he learns that Gaara has not only surpassed him but has achieved his own goal by coming Kazekage of his village (though it's later revealed it was for political reasons).
Sakura has changed the most. One of my fav moments from the new series is how she actually becomes interested in Naruto (noting his physique has matured) but is quickly disuaded by discovering his lack of "coolness" (aka bragging about a "new" sexy jutsu to Konahamaru and telling her that she looked the same (she's "filled out" BTW)).
Due to 9 tailed fox's increased power within Naruto, and the fact that they are lacking Sasuke, Tsunade assigns two former ANBU members to join their squad (Kakashi ends up back in the hospital right away of course). They are Yamato and Sai. Yamato is the result of one of Orochimaru's experiments, which gives him the powers of the first Hokage. These are the power of wood element (he can build a mansion in seconds) and limited control over tailed beasts, namely the nine-tailed fox by using the pendant that Tsunade gave Naruto. Frequently they play off his amazingly blank face. Naruto, and the viewers for that matter, find his face kinda eerie at times. They don't hesitate to have fun with this. He's very kind-hearted though and looks up to Kakashi, calling him Senpai (implying that he served under him in ANBU. (note: Yamato is not his real name, but he continues to use it)
Sai, is originally planted in the group by Danzo, the leader of ANBU root and Tsunade's political nemesis within Konoha. Trained not to show any emotion, he eventually begins to respond to Naruto and the others. He provides a lot of comic relief by trying to interract with the others.
Enjoyment: It's not as groundbreaking as the orignal, but the series continues to be fun. Naruto continues to grow and mature over the (now 100 episodes) series and is even learning to better use his current jutsus, thanks to Kakashi actually involving himself in Naruto's training for the first time. The gags continue a lot but now that characters are actually dying (other than enemies or the elderly (3rd Hokage) it's gotten more serious as well.
Overall: The series has a long ways to go, and since the author is far from finished it will be interesting how they decide to keep pace. They are currently on their 2nd filler arc. The first was somewhat silly, but gave everyone background on Asuma which is very important for reasons I refuse to give away at this time. The 2nd seems to be explaining where the 3-tails jinchuriki came from so it'll be interesting to see how they handle it.
Of course the original story is very strong and fast paced. To this date the highlight of the series has definately been when Naruto takes on Orochimaru. It helps you appreciate just how strong Orochimaru is.
The battles with the Akatsuki have been fascinating, mostly because they have so few weaknesses and how hard the Konoha ninja have to work to defeat them.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Mar 29, 2009
If I were to rate this like a hollywood film, I'd say it's a popcorn action movie.
It stands as an interesting followup to the Gundam Seed premise (the plots are in no way or form linked) and as a solid stand-alone work. It explores more fully the ideas expressed in the last two Gundam series, the idea of fighting to end war.
Story: Doesn't really add many twists to say the least.
A little background on the world in this series. It's the first Gundam series that takes place in the AD time continuum, the beginning of the 24th century. The majority
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of the world is grouped into 3 factions, all of which hog a share of the only remaining energy resource which is solar energy being "farmed" from massive sollar arrays ringing around the planet. Despite free and renewable energy, wars continue based on who has the energy, and more traditional reasons like religion.
The story starts out and the organization Celestial Being, with it's 4 pilots called "Gundam Meisters", begin operations to end war. They do this by sending the ridiculously overpowered Gundams to destroy any forces involved in conflict. They enjoy enormous success at first despite the four Meisters all possessing massive character flaws and/or traumatic pasts. In typical Gundam story-telling the team of heroes is betrayed and they lose their technological edge. There are a lot of small plot twists and many of the seemingly stray plotlines converge in the second series. The whole Saji/Louise subplot finds resolution in the 2nd series so don't be confused by it's rambling nature.
I found the initial reactions of the nations to be logical, but they increasingly become less so and the seemingly jaded opinion of the writers that the public would so quickly reject a vigilante military organization is a touch out there.
I could explain it further, but I'll leave that to the people who choose to view this show. I thought it worked but had some logic gaps, as most Gundam series do since they are typically aimed at the teenage male bracket.
Art: The different designs were very well done and a pleasant change from the generic designs of SEED. Nothing wowed me, but you can tell the characters apart and they do wear more than one outfit (a sign of poor art standards if they only wear one; see April O'Neil in TMNT and think body odor).
Sound: The soundtrack always fit the mood, the openings are great. I'd add either of the openings to my MP3. list, though the endings were pretty bland.
Character: Setsuna is the most boring main character ever. His motivations are clear, his "monk in a monastery" attitude towards female interaction are severe even by the celibate Shonen anime standards. He appears to be in his mid-teens, acts much older of course in that he never seems to let loose or even smile. His tortured past in being manipulated by radical muslim extremists is interesting, but barely seems to add or subtract to his personality. It is interesting that he's probably the first Kurdish hero of any anime.
Lockon Stratos is the likeable, older brother of the group. Of Irish descent, his family (except his twin brother) were killed by the same extremists that Setsuna once belonged to. He's the most relatable of the 4 meisters.
Allejuah Haptism is a young man (turns 21 at the beginning) with his normal personality and then his psychotic alter ego Hallejuah. He was formerly "Super Soldier" test subject who managed to escape the program. He has a strange mental link with the other Super Soldier, Soma Pieres, who is involved in the HRL (one of the nations) efforts to capture a Gundam.
Last of the Meisters is Tierria Erde. His background is not explained much in the first series, but he is able to link directly with the group's super computer "Veda". He's not entirely human and doesn't want the others to know this. He's also the "jerk" of the group until he confronts his own shortcomings and is not rejected by the others.
There are many other characters, most of whom are interesting in their own ways. The one other character who's (in my opinion) worth noting in this review is the tactician or "tactical forcaster" for Celestial Being, Sumeragi Noriega. She is very reminscient of Misato from Evangelion. She drinks frequently and wears skimpy clothes on occasion, but is all business during combat operations. She's haunted by a terrible accident early in her military career that resulted in a massively fatal friendly fire incident.
Enjoyment: It's perhaps the thin plot and simplistic characters that make this show such a fun watch. Especially at the beginning, anyone watching could seem themselves wanting to join Celestial Being. Fighting to end the countless "brushfire" wars across the globe with weapons and machinery that far outpaces anything in use at the time. That quickly ends, as some of the hallmarks of any Gundam series are warmongers, conspiracies, and the fact that the Gundams are always fallible in some way. You are always rooting for Celestial Being, though for some reason everyone in the anime seems to hate them for their "hypocrisy" (still think it's flimsy". The other constant in the series that whenever it seems that the Gundams are finished, they always get a new ability or specialty that tips the odds.
Overall: I like this series, plain and simple. I watched the first season(shown on Sci Fi channel in the US) and wait eagerly to watch the new episodes (second season) online each Sunday (currently waiting for the dubbing of the final episode). It doesn't have great characters like Code Geass, Naruto, or Rurouni Kenshin; but each are interesting and memorable in their own ways. The plot is annoyingly simple, but you still are on the edge of your seat.
The one thing that I can say that REALLY puts this anime far apart from most others is that the action keeps going. Rather than have all the character development happen in between the fighting, most of it occurs mid combat and I don't think there is a single episode where at least some sort of skirmish is going on.
So I recommend this movie to anyone who wants an engrossing anime, with loads of actions, and doesn't want their morals or beliefs challenged.
If you are looking for a character driven anime (see Death Note), a mecha as metaphorical experience (Evangelion), or light-hearted adventure (Naruto) then I wouldn't recommend it.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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Oct 3, 2008
It's hard to review this one, but the standard I will use is not to treat it as part of the franchise it belongs to, but as a wholly separate entity.
Story:The Tenchi Muyo OVA's are marked by having an unusually strong plotline despite being a "harem" anime. GxP however, takes a step away from that. Directed by the frequently manic Watanabe Shinichi (aka Nabeshin, aka the guy who dropped Excel Saga and Puni Puni Poemi upon an unsuspecting world) the maestro himself jumps from plot-point to plot-point with reckless abandon. While obviously having some respect for the original material, he takes
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liberty with the original canon when it suits him and creates the giant continuity cluster$#@! that was the 3rd OVA (and the scramble to fit it in with the original plot). The series takes a different slant from the other series in that it's got a lot more slapstick, and it's more risque in many places.
I will say that the crossover attempts and the AWFUL episode 17 (people at Funimation are going to hell for the dubbing of that episode BTW) were weak and really not necessary. The fact that this series came out before OVA 3 but referenced many parts of it, was also very disconcerting.
Art: Nothing stood out. Again, the artwork was heavily influenced by the director's style and his input is very clear.
Sound: I liked the opening credits music. But then all the Tenchi series have strong music.
Character: Enter the main character, Seina Yamada, the hopelessly cursed young man with legendary bad luck. While dropping by to see his friend Tenchi (who's also related to his best friend...don't get me started on the first of many continuity snafus) he's present for a Mihoshi-style crash landing of a Galaxy Police shuttle. The pilot, the sex object/mentor figure Amane, mistakenly things he's "in-the-know" to the wacky condition as Casa de Tenchi and hands him a recruitment brochure.
Seina then finds himself in the GP. I'm drifting into a synopsis, but work with me.
The GP, and the Jurai royals, soon discover Seina's unique ability to draw space pirates in like moths to a flame and they quickly decide to make use of that fact.
Seina is joined by the aforementioned Amane, model turned detective. His crush from back on Earth joins them as well, Kiriko. It's a mindbending rip of belief how Kiriko gets to GP HQ ahead of Seina, and if she was already aware of her royal status (yes, not even Tenchi knows that even his cousins on Earth get the royal treatment as well) what the heck she was doing on Earth before this point (reality bending, a Nabeshin special!)
Others include Ryoko Balta, who disappointingly does not share any of the roguish charm of her namesake but is also horribly miscast as a polite, almost prissy space pirate.
Then there is the child-like Neju, who true to anime stereotype, calls Seina "big brother" but is really 10,000 years old and also has designs on him.
The one standout character is the "Devil Princess of Jurai" Lady Seito. Her character is the one unique standout and plays very well in the 3rd OVA off of Washu. The other characters are quickly forgettable, but Seito will remain as one of the franchise's more memorable characters.
Enjoyment: This series was fun. It didn't wow me, it didn't make me think. It did give me headaches when they decided to screw with the established canon, but since it was continued in the 3rd OVA we have to assume that the Director and writers had some sort of blessing in this.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a raunchy slapstick comedy. However, this series did lack the tenderness of the rest of the franchise and will doubtlessly turn off female fans. (I know this because the series is one of my wife's favorites).
Overall: Watanabe Shinichi's unique take on the Tenchi world is refreshing and entertaining, especially after the semi-flop of Tenchi in Tokyo. It's clearly in it's own little section of the universe and is certainly a different take on things. The satire of the Galaxy Police (shown as vain and fashion obsessed) and the Jurai family (shown as a little kooky and not completely sane) is very fun given that one has seen other installments of the Tenchi franchise (namely the OVAs)
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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Oct 3, 2008
I won't write a traditional review of DBZ, because I feel that since it defines a large genre of anime it's kinda hard to compare it to what it helped create.
Started as a comedic take on Journey to the West (see Saiyuki) it quickly grew into a martial arts anime and grew into something bigger. From the humble beginnings of Goku, a young child with exceptional strength and a tail, and his quest to find dragonballs (wish granting orbs); all the way to the Buu Saga where the characters have god-like strength and abilities.
The consistent themes are that Goku triumphs through hard-work, quick
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thinking (though hardly book smarts), and a sheer love of competition.
This is the one constant in a series where bad guys become good guys regularly and even their height changes (Vegeta's height changes 5 times in one episode in the Frieza saga).
Now if you have never seen this series, keep in mind a few things. The three Dragonball series spanned almost 450 episodes. As mentioned before, what started out as a joke evolved into a titanic struggle for the fate of the universe. So things like the talking animals are a hold over from the original beginnings, and become increasingly rare as things continue and the mood becomes more and more serious.
Also keep in mind, that there are great action scenes, with a lot of discussion mixed in. A typical episode starts with a short fight, a 5 minute exposition on how powerful character "x" has gotten and how it shouldn't be possible, then a lot of bluster and boasting from character "y", then the episode ends with character "x" charging up some insane attack that involves a lot of screaming.
This series has humor and a light-hearted nature in many places, and it can seem odd for them to cut to a humorous moment on Earth in the middle of an exploding planet.
It sounds like I'm being critical, but it's a unique storytelling that wouldn't work for any other anime. The closest I have seen is Naruto, and the similarities are completely intentional.
I recommend watching the US dub for first time watchers. A. the Japanese soundtrack is godawful and painful to the ears, and B. you can't take this show too seriously and Funimation seems to understand that.
Some final thoughts, this program is a trendsetter. So based on what came after it might seem primitive. Just as a long-time fantasy reader, stumbling across Lord of the Rings for the first time, won't find anything fascinating. This series stands alone though, in having set the gold standard in every fighting anime created since.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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