Reviews

An insightful glimpse into the Japanese zeitgeist of old. Biting and poignant, the unnamed protagonist clearly symbolizes the conflict between the Ego and the Superego, actualizing the subconscious desire for societal rebellion. Though some may say the animation is lackluster, I would argue that it is a stylistic choice. Akin to James Joyce's clever wordsmithing, the frames here mash and collide in a bombastic display of eccentricity and phlogiston. But, as much as it pains me to admit, the pacing is a bit on the wandering side. The protagonist's arc is lethargic, albeit satisfying. But that is nowhere near as egregious as the changes that Bones made during adaptation. The manga's ending was much different and I think more thematically appropriate, but they did an alright job here. The voice-acting also leaves much to be desired. But at least the soundtrack is good. I've always been a huge fan of Okehazama Arisa's work, and he really knocked out of the park here. All in all, the experience is good. It could have been better, but it's still good. However, I hesitate to recommend it.