- Robert A. Heinlein
Take that quote, put it in anime form, and crank the "stupidity" up to 100. Then multiply that with the most fun you've had in a long time. That's how Aho-Girl was created (literally, the title is exactly what it is).
Many have written this anime off because of the countless number of memes and clips you've seen of it on the internet make it seem like a joke. None of them have given it a fair chance. They don't know what they're missing out on.
Story: 7
Once upon a time, humanity was cursed by the gods and suffered a terrible fate. That fate was Hanabatake Yoshiko. She and her intricate tactics to overthrow humanity were bound to reign down on the mere mortals below in due time. Thus, it was up to Akutsu Akuru, humanity's knight in shining armor, to put a stop to this.
You see, that was the dramatic version. In reality, this show is simply about a girl's stupidity and what kind of situations it puts herself and others in. While there is no overarching plot of speak of (except one man's struggle to stop her terror), each episode contains a few small, generally self-contained stories, that provide a stage for all the wacky antics we see our characters get themselves into.
Art: 8
At first glance, the artwork and animation are quite basic. However, as the series progresses and the situations become more wild, the art becomes more distinct and expressive. If a character is mad, they look furious. If a character is shocked, they look distraught. The animation conveys every action and emotion with such fluidity and precision.
In addition, there a few segments where the animators either change the style of the show completely, or change the kind of animation itself. At one point, a segment turns into a manga-like high-speed chase scene on a highway. Another time, it transforms into a shounen-like battle scene. In general, you're always in for a treat, even if there are a few noticeable mistakes and mishaps sprinkled throughout.
Also, the opening for every episode changes. For a show that you'd think would have a low-budget, this is quite unique and deserves praise.
Sound: 8
Every time music plays, it fits the scene it accompanies well. In addition, the opening and ending themes are nice to listen. As for the opening in particular, it displays the show's playful and upbeat nature perfectly.
Character: 8
I'll go ahead and say this now, there is very minimal character development to be found. Yet, the show dances around this roadblock with grace. Each character has great chemistry with every other character they interact with. The characters are what sold this anime to me. Every funny moment is because of the characters. While the characters could technically be defined as one-note, each individual personality is so strong that you won't care in the end.
Enjoyment: 10
I'd be lying if this wasn't one of the funniest anime I've seen. The anime is bold in nature and constantly strives to defy one's expectations of what comes next. Every trope that it could possibly be subjected to, is turned on it's head. Every episode was like a roller coaster, except the ride only ever went down when it was finished.
Overall: 8
This anime is not meant to be judged critically. By those standards, the show is quite poor. However, if you are willing to turn off your brain for 12 minutes at a time, you will love this anime for what it is. If you legitimately give it a chance, you won't be disappointed.
