Finally we're going in a direction. I think 2 episodes of Character introduction were a pretty good way to handle it; but episode 3 gives us a true glimpse into what Hyouka really has to offer.
Story - 8
Bumped this up a level simply because episode 3 finally got me interested. Who is Chitanda's Uncle? Why is so so special? What happened at the Classics clubs 45 years ago? When an Anime succeeds in making me long for the next episode in order to get answers; then it's done it's job well. We can finally see some "mystery". Now, if they can keep this going for 20+ episodes without getting dull is a different story.
Art- 10
Hyouka excels when it comes to Art. Clean lines, perfect lighting, cut shadows. It does everything immaculately. I wouldn't be exaggerating if I said that it's the best animated show this season so far. But the point is, Hyouka does quite amazing things with it's art, in that it fully emphasises it with long cuts and off-angle shots reminiscent of "5 Centimetres per Second" and "Bakemonogatari". What can we expect from KyoAni?
Sound - 7
Bumped this down a score simply because I think the use of Classical works in the anime (such as in Episode 3, my Favourite; Air on the G) feels forced and out of place. They use the music at the wrong time, during the wrong scene and I don't really think it fits in with the Anime at all. They seem to want to add them because they somehow create an air of "intelligence" or "exclusiveness" to the Anime; which I think is wrong. The original work besides that isn't anything special that has stuck in my head yet.
Just now realised there isn't an OP. Don't know what to make of that.
Also, voice acting. Very good. It's only when you start actively noticing (and enjoying) a character's voice that you know a voice actor's done well. In my case, Chitanda. I'm a sucker for moe.
Character- 8
Besides the fact I do not like the Protag in the slightest (most lame, overused excuse for a character insert I've seen), the other 3 are actually quite well made. They each have their own likeable aspects. Of course, we're only 3 episodes in so we're not going to get any depth. However, I can quickly see Chitanda becoming another fan-crush. Heck, even I'm falling for her.
Enjoyment- 8
So far; Hyouka is a very calming watch. It you watch it expecting some sort of Masterpiece or Brain-Boggler then you'll be disappointed. If you watch it snuggled up with a cup of tea (or coffee, whatever floats your boat) and relax to the gentle soundtrack, soft voices and hidden comedy then you'll be sure to enjoy it. Hyouka is all about undertones, and if you don't like Anime that's in your face and overly excessive and loud, you'll probably enjoy it.
