The thing that pushed me to write a review was to clear misconceptions about this show. Apparently many people believe that this show is just about fanservice, when in reality, there is not nearly the amount of fanservice you would see in the typical anime. No, this story series deals with the more or less taboo subjects or moral dilemmas that trouble people everyday. So, on with the full review:
Story: First and foremost, this show is put in the slow-paced category, and that means it is SLOW PACED, so don't expect huge plot developments, that's not the point of the show. Like i said before, this series focuses on themes and morals that not many people are willing to go too deep in. Bakemonogatari was split into 4 different arcs focusing on four different characters the main character helps. The way this series is laid out is that it uses supernatural events and problems (like a curse that makes you weightless if you suppress your feelings or having your armed mutated into a monkey's paw through greed and jealousy) and by solving each problem, moral values surface. Nisemonogatari is similar, only it focuses on Araragi's two sisters this time around, thus the series is split into two main arcs. The title literally translates to "Story of a Fake" and the main theme that it revolves around is "What is the true value of a copy, a fake?" I won't reveal anything, but you should keep this main idea in your head while watching it. This show is definitely not for everyone. If you only like big fights that don't require any brainpower, you will hate this show because you will not understand the meaning and point that the author was trying to put across. You may think that I am the one going to deep and finding meaning where there isn't one, but the author doesn't really hide it, its simply portrayed in a storytelling manner, and if you can't find those themes or have no interest in them, you will not enjoy this show to the fullest extent. Yes, there is fanservice (after watching this, you will not look at a tooth brush the same way), but as I said before, its not really ecchi, its more like a representation of each characters' personal quality that portrays both their strength and weakness (although there are definitely scenes that are there just to please the fans).
Character: This is a character driven show. Both seasons revolve around the main character and the times he helps those around him with their personal problems, and each character is unique and memorable. This is due to the fact that each character has their own tremendous, and yet completely relate-able problems that is portrayed perfectly, and how they overcome it, if they manage to do so, and what the consequences of accepting change in their personality will mean. Besides story related aspects, the voice actors themselves are perfect for each role, and flesh out the innocence, cruelty, jealousy, kindness and hatred of each personality. The character set is definitely the most memorable I have seen in a long time
Art: If you have watched Bakemonogatari, the art is pretty much the same with all of its flashy effects and close up eye shots and exaggerated poses. The quality is top notch even in today's standards and I was very impressed at the amount of detail. It still gives you the feel that you are high, and that is good.
Sound: The sound isn't extravagant or epic, but it is at the same time in its own, unique way to match up with the unique art style. It is what you would hear from a typical slow paced showed with melodramatic tunes that are at the same time, quite dramatic. Its not the most memorable, but the music isn't made to be memorable, it simply solidifies the mysteriousness, and calmness of each scene.
I loved this show and was quite disappointed that it was only 11 episodes. I don't recommend this show to everyone because it's impossible for everyone to like the same thing. But, if you liked the first season, or you're a fan of rom-com, slowpaced, or supernatural, then i would definitely give this show a shot.
