Story-7
As everyone knows shounens are usually never to original in fact most follow a similar formula. However Boku no Hero Academia reminded me that its not a complex story that gives shounen its appeal but the feelings it inspires in you. Like some of you, I grew up with DragonballZ and Naruto, both of which arent master pieces but the reason I loved them growing up and cherish them now is they motivated me, gave me feelings of aspiration and courage. Not trying to be sentimental but as you watch Hero Academia youll be reminded of the feelings you had the first time Goku turned into a supersayin, when Naruto defeats Pain, Ichigo faces off with Byakuya to save Rukia and so on. The story is very simple, with very simple explanations. Its set in a world were super powers are common place and heroes are a recognized occupation. Our protagonist is the familiar timid and humble character who longs to become one of those heroes yet has no power. The show is about his path to reaching his goal. And thats it no hidden messages, no cool metaphors or symbolism just a story about heroes and the making of them. Now dont get me wrong, personally my favorite genres include seinen and my all time favorite anime is the original Ghost in the Shell but like I said this is just a great example of light hearted fun with inspiring characters.
Art-7
The art in Boku no Hero Academia isnt incredible but it isnt bad either. Like its story its simple and does the job perfectly. The fight scenes are done well enough and the colors are bright, flashy and over-the-top when it needs it to be.
Sound/Music-10
This is were I believe the anime excels the most. Its a great example of what music can do for a show. It fits perfectly with the hero theme and those uplifting moments. Its no exaggeration when I say that half of what made the show great was the music. Best accompanying anime music that season in my opinion. The OP and ED where OK but the music during the show was much more impressive. Voice actors did a great job (japanese anyway), especially All-Mights.
Characters-9
The characters in Boku no Hero Academia are kinda cut and pace from other series but somehow it does well with what its given and your able to still laugh along those same familiar moments, feel sad, motivated, excited etc despite seeing these same performances done by other characters before. In fact even though your aware of this from the beginning you may forget about it as the show progresses.
Enjoyment-10
Like Ive mentioned before the show does a really great job making you feel inspired and thats what a shounen is for. Its for "boys" (and girls) growing up who need that motivation to do their best in whatever they do. Even though I am in college now when I watched it, it gave me the same feelings I would have have if I were 14 and watching.
Overall-9
Dont overlook it, I know its rare to find a shounen that can stand out among its many, many predecessors but Hero Academia is one of those and if you have ever enjoyed some of the classic shows that aired on Toonami when you were a kid then you may just enjoy this.
