Reviews

Like a campfire, a familiar jersey, or a comfort food, Sousou no Frieren serves to infuse the viewer with 'positive vibes'. Although ostensibly a high-fantasy adventure tale, the show is better described as a slice of life. The somewhat unsettling theme of human transience is still at the forefront of the show. However, most episodes consist of fairly innocuous and inconsequential interactions. All in all, this seems to be another addition to the 'wholesome cute girls doing things wholesomely and cutely' anime subgenre with notably high production value.
The weakpoint of Sousou no Frieren is that it offers little beyond 'positive vibes'. The main theme of evanescence is generally played straight and not developed much. It's debatable to what extent the cast consists of actual people rather than cliches; whatever the case may be, the characters do not exhibit any growth throughout the show, with the possible, but obvious, exception of the lead. Most episodes connect current events with some sort of far gone aspect of the main characters life. However, this is done on an ad hoc basis and these aspects seem to be forgotten the moment the episode is over. Thus, although somewhat clever, the events of most episodes do not drive the plot, theme, or character development forward. Finally, the humour in show, while inoffensive, leaves something to be desired.
I think this show is enjoyable so long as it is approached with the right mindset. Expect to wind down after a stressful day and soothe your 21st century jaded soul. Do not expect to be challenged, excited, or titillated. The show is closer to K-ON! than it is to Lord of the Rings.