CHARACTERS = 5/10
The series' protagonists are Tanukichi Okuma and Ayame Kajou, surrounded by a small supporting cast. This anime is intended to be a comedy so there is not too much depth to these characters. Tanukichi and Ayame exist as a comedic duo, in which Ayame makes very similar obscene jokes left and right and Tanukichi reacts to them. The antagonists of the different arcs are also very simple (crazy) in their attitudes/behaviors. The side characters, such as Otome Saotome and Kosuri Onigashira, add some fun flavor to the mix. These are all certainly very different characters than seen in most other anime.
STORY = 5/10
The setting of this anime is very unique and actually sparks some conversation about sex positivity and free speech. It takes place in a world where all that can be considered obscene (mainly sex-related materials and conversation) is under the scrutiny of a police-like force, leaving many people, especially the youth, unknowledgeable about things like family planning, masturbation, or sex. Viewers definitely get the sense that this is not a world they would want to live in. As far as plotlines go, Shimoneta certainly has some strengths as far as telling some bizarre stories (e.g. Moist Throng), but a big issue is that its humor often falls flat. Some moments are pretty funny while most of the show's jokes feel like a lot of repetitive (sometimes disgusting, depending on your viewpoint) fluff to get through just to see how the story progresses.
ART = 8/10
The art in Shimoneta is one of its strengths. It is fairly well-animated, with decent character designs.
SOUND = 8/10
Also a strength. The voice-acting is quite convincing. There is good background music when the story calls for it. The OP and ED music really set the tone for the series.
ENJOYMENT = 6/10
Shimoneta is pretty enjoyable because it is so unique. However, as one gets through it, it starts to drag a bit after realizing how repetitive the jokes are. The overall message of free speech and sex positivity that lies beneath this bizarre series is also one that many people can get behind.
OVERALL = 6/10
Would I recommend Shimoneta to a friend? Yes, but I would probably preface that I found it more interesting than I found it great.
