Back to isomanatees's Profile isomanatees's Profile

Baccano!, with its bevy of a cast and three story lines from three different time periods, all crammed into thirteen episodes, where do I begin? Actually, this question is asked by the show itself in the first episode, where it is then discussed. It is a careful introduction; lots of talking, a little bit slow.

But come episode two, it picks up and never slows down, expanding on these stories and characters, weaving the threads in and out until it all culminates into an explosive ending where everything comes together. The last two episodes are brilliant and I'd say it's one of the most satisfying endings ... to any anime series I've watched.

The tight, overarching plot is one that is well-crafted and well-paced, and where every moment is meaningful. You feel like you know the characters after all--to differing degrees, of course. There are exciting, badass moments to enjoy, the music is good, and the violence is extreme. That last one is not really a plus in my book, but is a point to take note of.

Can you tell I really like this show? Well, I don't want to raise your expectations too high. Best to take it slow. Start from the beginning.

Shinogara En loves women--and hates men so much that even looking at his own manly reflection in a mirror brings on such uncontrollable rage that he immediately tries to destroy it. It's a premise that one must take with a grain of salt, especially since he does not go around school punching every boy he sees.

Even outside of its premise, Usotsuki Lily is an unconventional manga. Outwardly, it seems like your standard romcom with a twist, but all of Hinata's friends are in happy relationships, there is no two-faced female rival, no poor male admirer who almost--but not quite--steals Hinata away. The couple tries to ... communicate most of the time. It's quite a refreshing and light-hearted read, with most conflicts coming up and being resolved in one chapter. The characters frequently break the fourth wall, reminding you to not take it too seriously.

I don't actually think it's a particularly deep manga. This is not to say that serious moments don't happen, but in general, it's the type I would read slowly, at a couple of chapters a day, like a snack. Or as a way to cheer myself up. I find it an enjoyable read and recommend giving it a try.

(I am, however, only 27 chapters in. I feel like it's going to continue this way but we'll see!)