Reviews

Jun 5, 2020
First off, I need to say that Jojo's Bizarre Adventure is my favorite anime/manga series of all time, and i believe this season is a great start for it. This season, which contains the two first arcs, provides an amazing groundwork for the plot and evolution of the rest of the series. However, much of the story has not aged very well. The first 9 episodes contain Part 1, the first arc, which I see as the weakest in the series. If it was isolated from part 2, this season would get a 5.5/10 from me. The main characters of Jonathon Joestar and Dio Brando are the best aspect of this arc, providing for a dynamic and unique relationship between them. Their development as two brothers growing to be opposite forces, while not too original of a concept, is compelling and an interesting driver of the conflict. But, the other aspects cannot compare to these two characters. The minor antagonists and other various side characters are fairly bland, mostly ending up to be forgettable and one-dimensional. The plot of good vs evil in an 1880s England setting can be dull and dragging, especially during the middle episodes. The writing and themes aren't anything special either, but serve their purpose fine. The score, composed by a different composer than the composer that worked on the iconic soundtrack of season 2 and onward, fits the flow of the story nicely, but again, is nothing to get excited about.

Episode 10 starts the introduction to Part 2, which takes up the majority of this season. This arc is much more entertaining, and shows the first major evolution in the writing of the series. These episodes improve on almost every aspect of Part 1, with better characters, plot, and music. The main protagonist, Joseph Joestar, acts in contrast to the noble morals of Part 1's Jonathon, with his much more memorable, trickster personality standing him better on his own as a character. The supporting protagonists, while still in the shadow of Joseph, are much more unique. Their development is much more thought out and important, making them more likable and realistic. The plot and tone is lighthearted, as with this arc's emphasis on humor, and the pacing of it rarely leaves you uninterested. The music contrasts greatly with part 1's symphonic, heroic themes. It features memorable electronic music with occasional aspects such as foreign-sounding chanting, catching you off guard with its originality and boldness. However, as this still encompasses the early years of Jojo, Part 2 has some unavoidable flaws. Firstly, its main villain's personality and motives are dry compared to Dio Brando of Part 1. The villains are the group of the Pillar Men, an ancient race of super-beings, introduced as threats with extreme power. Most lack a personality, being typical villains trying to gain power who the hero must stop, mostly being only shown in battle with the protagonists. Other Jojo villains are great because of their relatability and the understanding and depth of their motives, neither of which the pillar men have much of. Overall, Part 2 is a very enjoyable arc, if it was on its own, I would give it a 8/10.

Despite the negatives I stated about this anime, Jojo's Bizarre Adventure Season One is an entertaining ride and introduction into the Jojo universe. I highly recommend it, as going through the slow bits of this series is necessary for the later fantastic parts of it.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
What did you think of this review?
Nice Nice0
Love it Love it0
Funny Funny0
Show all
It’s time to ditch the text file.
Keep track of your anime easily by creating your own list.
Sign Up Login