X is the name belonging manga created by CLAMP, but was also made into a anime film and anime series. There was a music media made with power metal group X Japan using images from this title. This title can be also named as X/1999. X deals with the end of days, the year being 1999. A young esper, after six years of absence, returns to apocalyptic Tokyo to face is destiny as the man who has in his hands the fate of humanity. Dark as it it, it deals with various ways of the end of the world, taken from popular secular and religious lore, but with their own mythos. It's generally action paced, and increasingly graphic due to its violent nature seen in X.
This title was released as a manga,with the anime film following after. Eventually, X/1999 was made into an anime TV series, created in the studio Madhouse, and published by Manga Entertainment in 2001, the same time the OVA was created. Funimation licensed the OVA as well as the TV anime, called X TV. I saw this and was stunned by it, though much like Witchblade, the ending didn't meet my fancy, though it ended the worst of scenarios. X gets a 6.5. While it was indeed interesting, it was too dark and bloody for my tastes. It speaks of the end of the world, but in a more... fictional way. Still, I sort of liked it, but it's not good to watch if you're not the type that can bear excessive violence.
2011/03/30
XIX: "Dragon Ball" series
Okay, this is another multi-anime review, dealing with the universe of Akira Toriyama's Dragon Ball. Those familiar with the story Journey to the West may notice that the series mainstay character, Son Goku, has traits of the latter story's Son Wukong. An expanded description of him occurs when Saiyans come into play in the anime's sequel Dragon Ball Z, when he is identified as one of them early in the series' first season.
In Dragon Ball, Son Goku's younger days are explained, starting from his first encounter with Bulma Brief, to the rivalry against Piccolo Jr., and the marriage between him and Chi Chi, daughter of the Ox King. Between the timeline during these events, we get first glimpses at many of the recurring characters in the Dragon Ball universe, among which are fellow Z-Fighters Krillin, Tien, Chiaotzu, Yamcha, and Master Roshi. Among the DB characters, there are other characters who are nearly absent in the other series, never to be seen nor mentioned again until later, if not at all.
The plot dealt with the central, titular items called Dragon Balls. Created by the guardian of earth Kami, it is said that possessing seven of these would grant the summoner of the Eternal Dragon any wish possible. Should a wish be cast, the Eternal Dragon Shenron would grant this wish, before returning into the balls. They would then scatter across the earth, turning to stone and becoming unusable until the next year. This is, of course how a number of conflicts begin, and Goku is wrapped in the mess from their first hunt, for initially, he possessed the 4-star ball as a keep sake from his grandfather, Gohan, prior to his first adventure alongside Bulma. The series' main antagonists are Emperor Pilaf, Red Ribbon Army, and King Piccolo, though there are other enemies that Goku does encounter as well (some of which are later an ally.) It has action, but also it's dose of silliness. It gets a 7 of 10 from me. It just came to me that aside from the Funimation and Blue Water dubbings, there was a third one under Harmony Gold, the same group responsible for the dubbed Robotech anime. However, this dub was short lived, and is the least known, yet distinguished for changing the name of Goku to Zero. One episode, not to spoil, featured characters deom another work Dr. Slump (which in turn would feature one of them as a fighter for Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3.)
In the sequel Dragon Ball Z, it starts off years after the birth of Goku's son, Son Gohan (perhaps named after Goku's adoptive grandfather), who is later to be perceived as a half-Saiyan. However, the fireworks start early after the introduction of Raditz, the brother of Goku and one of the last pure-blood Saiyans around. A bit of the Saiyan history is introduced, and after the battle with Raditz, he meets another who ultimately becomes his rival: the prince of Saiyans, Vegeta. DBZ expands to different planets this time around, having battles not only on Earth, but also the fictional Planet Namek. There was even one instance where events go on in "Other World". DBZ is known for having two different English dubs before its remake as Dragon Ball Z Kai: the original dub was first done by Ocean Productions. which primarily covered to about half of the Namek Saga. From then onward, dubbing was done by Funimation, who also redubbed the start of the series, as well as the remade and compressed DBZ Kai.
A slew of characters was introduced here as well, such as the androids 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 (essentially introducing Dr. Gero), Trunks, a half-Saiyan from the future and son of Vegeta and Bulma, Videl, who ultimately becomes acquainted with Gohan towards the end, and Pan and Uub, who didn't have bigger roles until Dragon Ball GT (yet Uub is a reincarnated from of Majin Buu's Kid form). As such, a number of characters are either returning or reincarnated as well, such as General Tao, albeit mechanized. The plot takes a different stem as well, as people would go as far as even destroying the planet, some not concerning themselves at all with the Dragon Balls. Just as much, a lot of fatalities occur in it, so the use of the said items are that much more prominent. It is also in DBZ that we not only know about the true origin behind the Dragon Balls, but also we see a different Eternal Dragon: Porunga of Namek, who grants 3 wishes. Shenron does return as well, but following the merging of Piccolo and the Earth Guardian, Kami, he is soon remodeled by Dende, introduced in the Namek saga, and plays the guardian role late in the Cell saga onward.
The major baddies this time around would be Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu (through various reincarnations). In spite of Dragon Ball having the first ever Saiyan transformation, DBZ is first for having expansions of the Saiyan powers, with the inclusion of the Super Saiyan, introduced in the Frieza Saga. The Super Saiyan powers are also expanded, eventually to the introduction of Super Saiyan 2 (Cell Games Saga), and Super Saiyan 3 (Majin Buu Saga). Unlike Dragon Ball, DBZ is a tad more serious than its predecessor. It gets from me a slightly better 7.25.
Last, but not least, we have the successor to DBZ: Dragon Ball GT. This anime was made in published like the others, but Toriyama did not do work on this anime. As such, it has not a manga based on it either. In DBGT, Goku returns once more, but thanks to old enemies Emperor Pilaf, Mai, and Shuu, a wish was accidentally granted, reducing the size and age of Goku. At this point, in size, Goku has returned to his younger days, while the other members of DBZ remain older, such as his second son, Son Goten, who is in his teens. The Dragon Balls remain as well, but there's a new set debuting, aside from a flock of new Shenrons. The Black Star Dragon Balls hosts the massive Ultimate Shenron, a red dragon whose wish capacity outclasses even that of Earth's Shenron, yet only one wish could be granted. However, this comes with a price. Once a wish is made, they would scatter throughout the galaxy. In addition to this, the hosting planet is on a one-year countdown before it gets destroyed, and can only be nullified when the Black Star Dragon Balls are returned into place.
However, there are other problems that the three heroes, Goku, Trunks and Pan must also deal with: the first major one being Dr. Myuu and General Rildo. As soon as that's out the way, the created parasite Baby is the next big threat. Following these are Super Android 17 and the seven Shadow Dragons, spawned from the evil Smoke Shenron. Along the way, 2 new Saiyan forms are introduced: the Golden Ape transformation (an upgrade to the basic Ape transformation seen in Dragon Ball), and the Super Saiyan 4 transformation, which is the last known form on the Super Saiyan line. Fitting enough, it didn't last as long as the others. And not a lot of fans were drawn to DBGT as compared to DBZ. This series gets a 6.
A number of movies were also spawned from the 3 anime, most of which coming from DBZ. As such, a few characters who remain nearly nameless in the series overall, such as Broly and Goku's father Bardock, are also introduced, though almost none of the movies are considered canon. As such, there are viewer made parodies of it, some being well popularized (DBZ Abridged, Weekly Tube Show), and others being largely hyped and never created (Dragon Ball AF). There was even a recent live action adaption that was poorly recieved, that being Dragon Ball Evolution. Overall, through manga, anime, merchandise, and even video games, Dragon Ball is massively popular. So, people out there had to hear the name, or something of the like, at least once, seeing how it's that popular. Perhaps is too early to say it, but the universe of Dragon Ball is perhaps a staple name in Funimation that everyone knows.
In Dragon Ball, Son Goku's younger days are explained, starting from his first encounter with Bulma Brief, to the rivalry against Piccolo Jr., and the marriage between him and Chi Chi, daughter of the Ox King. Between the timeline during these events, we get first glimpses at many of the recurring characters in the Dragon Ball universe, among which are fellow Z-Fighters Krillin, Tien, Chiaotzu, Yamcha, and Master Roshi. Among the DB characters, there are other characters who are nearly absent in the other series, never to be seen nor mentioned again until later, if not at all.
The plot dealt with the central, titular items called Dragon Balls. Created by the guardian of earth Kami, it is said that possessing seven of these would grant the summoner of the Eternal Dragon any wish possible. Should a wish be cast, the Eternal Dragon Shenron would grant this wish, before returning into the balls. They would then scatter across the earth, turning to stone and becoming unusable until the next year. This is, of course how a number of conflicts begin, and Goku is wrapped in the mess from their first hunt, for initially, he possessed the 4-star ball as a keep sake from his grandfather, Gohan, prior to his first adventure alongside Bulma. The series' main antagonists are Emperor Pilaf, Red Ribbon Army, and King Piccolo, though there are other enemies that Goku does encounter as well (some of which are later an ally.) It has action, but also it's dose of silliness. It gets a 7 of 10 from me. It just came to me that aside from the Funimation and Blue Water dubbings, there was a third one under Harmony Gold, the same group responsible for the dubbed Robotech anime. However, this dub was short lived, and is the least known, yet distinguished for changing the name of Goku to Zero. One episode, not to spoil, featured characters deom another work Dr. Slump (which in turn would feature one of them as a fighter for Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3.)
In the sequel Dragon Ball Z, it starts off years after the birth of Goku's son, Son Gohan (perhaps named after Goku's adoptive grandfather), who is later to be perceived as a half-Saiyan. However, the fireworks start early after the introduction of Raditz, the brother of Goku and one of the last pure-blood Saiyans around. A bit of the Saiyan history is introduced, and after the battle with Raditz, he meets another who ultimately becomes his rival: the prince of Saiyans, Vegeta. DBZ expands to different planets this time around, having battles not only on Earth, but also the fictional Planet Namek. There was even one instance where events go on in "Other World". DBZ is known for having two different English dubs before its remake as Dragon Ball Z Kai: the original dub was first done by Ocean Productions. which primarily covered to about half of the Namek Saga. From then onward, dubbing was done by Funimation, who also redubbed the start of the series, as well as the remade and compressed DBZ Kai.
A slew of characters was introduced here as well, such as the androids 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 (essentially introducing Dr. Gero), Trunks, a half-Saiyan from the future and son of Vegeta and Bulma, Videl, who ultimately becomes acquainted with Gohan towards the end, and Pan and Uub, who didn't have bigger roles until Dragon Ball GT (yet Uub is a reincarnated from of Majin Buu's Kid form). As such, a number of characters are either returning or reincarnated as well, such as General Tao, albeit mechanized. The plot takes a different stem as well, as people would go as far as even destroying the planet, some not concerning themselves at all with the Dragon Balls. Just as much, a lot of fatalities occur in it, so the use of the said items are that much more prominent. It is also in DBZ that we not only know about the true origin behind the Dragon Balls, but also we see a different Eternal Dragon: Porunga of Namek, who grants 3 wishes. Shenron does return as well, but following the merging of Piccolo and the Earth Guardian, Kami, he is soon remodeled by Dende, introduced in the Namek saga, and plays the guardian role late in the Cell saga onward.
The major baddies this time around would be Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu (through various reincarnations). In spite of Dragon Ball having the first ever Saiyan transformation, DBZ is first for having expansions of the Saiyan powers, with the inclusion of the Super Saiyan, introduced in the Frieza Saga. The Super Saiyan powers are also expanded, eventually to the introduction of Super Saiyan 2 (Cell Games Saga), and Super Saiyan 3 (Majin Buu Saga). Unlike Dragon Ball, DBZ is a tad more serious than its predecessor. It gets from me a slightly better 7.25.
Last, but not least, we have the successor to DBZ: Dragon Ball GT. This anime was made in published like the others, but Toriyama did not do work on this anime. As such, it has not a manga based on it either. In DBGT, Goku returns once more, but thanks to old enemies Emperor Pilaf, Mai, and Shuu, a wish was accidentally granted, reducing the size and age of Goku. At this point, in size, Goku has returned to his younger days, while the other members of DBZ remain older, such as his second son, Son Goten, who is in his teens. The Dragon Balls remain as well, but there's a new set debuting, aside from a flock of new Shenrons. The Black Star Dragon Balls hosts the massive Ultimate Shenron, a red dragon whose wish capacity outclasses even that of Earth's Shenron, yet only one wish could be granted. However, this comes with a price. Once a wish is made, they would scatter throughout the galaxy. In addition to this, the hosting planet is on a one-year countdown before it gets destroyed, and can only be nullified when the Black Star Dragon Balls are returned into place.
However, there are other problems that the three heroes, Goku, Trunks and Pan must also deal with: the first major one being Dr. Myuu and General Rildo. As soon as that's out the way, the created parasite Baby is the next big threat. Following these are Super Android 17 and the seven Shadow Dragons, spawned from the evil Smoke Shenron. Along the way, 2 new Saiyan forms are introduced: the Golden Ape transformation (an upgrade to the basic Ape transformation seen in Dragon Ball), and the Super Saiyan 4 transformation, which is the last known form on the Super Saiyan line. Fitting enough, it didn't last as long as the others. And not a lot of fans were drawn to DBGT as compared to DBZ. This series gets a 6.
A number of movies were also spawned from the 3 anime, most of which coming from DBZ. As such, a few characters who remain nearly nameless in the series overall, such as Broly and Goku's father Bardock, are also introduced, though almost none of the movies are considered canon. As such, there are viewer made parodies of it, some being well popularized (DBZ Abridged, Weekly Tube Show), and others being largely hyped and never created (Dragon Ball AF). There was even a recent live action adaption that was poorly recieved, that being Dragon Ball Evolution. Overall, through manga, anime, merchandise, and even video games, Dragon Ball is massively popular. So, people out there had to hear the name, or something of the like, at least once, seeing how it's that popular. Perhaps is too early to say it, but the universe of Dragon Ball is perhaps a staple name in Funimation that everyone knows.
2011/03/29
XVIII: "Fancy Lala"
Heaven forbid why I decided to even watch this, in spite of warnings, but I confirmed it: Fancy Lala does fall under the [too sugary for otaku] type of anime (if such a category even existed). This anime is that of the magical girl genre, and centers on nine year old Miho Shinohara. Here's the thing about her: aside from having a magical sketchbook and pen (which are capable of bringing to life whatever she draws in there), she also has this ability to transform into the 15 year-old titular character: Fancy Lala. In addition to this, she is scouted by this agency, who pretty much sets her on a road to stardom. This is done without the knowledge of her family.
...I'm sorry, but to go beyond this would mean gagging online.
Studio Perroit worked on this title alongside Bandai Visual, being localized for US by Bandai Entertainment. There was an OVA more or less similar to the anime in question, but I won't go into it. Now for the grading.
Before I proceed to grade it, I'll state this: as a guy that watched anime for a while, I've probably seen my share of sugary ones, but this could be one you might want to have floss nearby just watching it. Okay, maybe that's a little harsh, but that's my experience about it. Fancy Lala was just oh too Fancy for me. Deeming it was one of those unsuccessful anime, I didn't expect much, and not much was offered to me, so it gets a 3.5. Not the worst I've seen, but it made me cringe. Some thing tells me that, in spite of this, it doesn't stop here...
...I'm sorry, but to go beyond this would mean gagging online.
Studio Perroit worked on this title alongside Bandai Visual, being localized for US by Bandai Entertainment. There was an OVA more or less similar to the anime in question, but I won't go into it. Now for the grading.
Before I proceed to grade it, I'll state this: as a guy that watched anime for a while, I've probably seen my share of sugary ones, but this could be one you might want to have floss nearby just watching it. Okay, maybe that's a little harsh, but that's my experience about it. Fancy Lala was just oh too Fancy for me. Deeming it was one of those unsuccessful anime, I didn't expect much, and not much was offered to me, so it gets a 3.5. Not the worst I've seen, but it made me cringe. Some thing tells me that, in spite of this, it doesn't stop here...
2011/03/26
XVII: "Detective Conan: The Phantom of Baker Street"
I love Detective Conan, that's a fact I can't lie about. So I was kinda thrilled when I saw the movie, titled Detective Conan: The Phantom of Baker Street. A little FYI for those that don't know, Detective Conan is known as Case Closed in the US.
Common to most episodes and films, it has a backdrop as to how he got shrunk down to size, so I won't bother getting to that, maybe not until I review the series itself. The plot starts off from a suicide of a young boy, then moves on to a murder, and a plot endangering kids that play a certain game. Among those are Conan, Ran, The Detective Boys, and Ai. The game played consist of a virtual brain known as Noah's Ark, who is somehow dead set on "resetting Japan", which puts in danger the 48 lives of children. As usual, Conan is on the job, but while he does so in the virtual world, his old man takes this case in real time. All the while, the game they play reenacts a certain time in London, with a certain killer and detective. The father-son team must bust their respective cases before Conan's game, and life, ends.
I was kept entertained as usual. I give this a 7.5 of 10. It was a good case, especially when this plot ties with well known fictional characters. I really hope I find the other movies, now that I saw this.
Common to most episodes and films, it has a backdrop as to how he got shrunk down to size, so I won't bother getting to that, maybe not until I review the series itself. The plot starts off from a suicide of a young boy, then moves on to a murder, and a plot endangering kids that play a certain game. Among those are Conan, Ran, The Detective Boys, and Ai. The game played consist of a virtual brain known as Noah's Ark, who is somehow dead set on "resetting Japan", which puts in danger the 48 lives of children. As usual, Conan is on the job, but while he does so in the virtual world, his old man takes this case in real time. All the while, the game they play reenacts a certain time in London, with a certain killer and detective. The father-son team must bust their respective cases before Conan's game, and life, ends.
I was kept entertained as usual. I give this a 7.5 of 10. It was a good case, especially when this plot ties with well known fictional characters. I really hope I find the other movies, now that I saw this.
2011/03/24
XVI: "Full Metal Panic!" series
This post is not necessarily a SPECIAL post, but it's a 3-in-one post regarding the anime Full Metal Panic! Not to be confused with other media bearing the name Full Metal, Full Metal Panic!, or FMP!, deals with a member of a secretive anti-terrorist military "Mithril", who is hired to guard a high school girl. This Mithril agent, Sousuke Sagara, is sent to Japan as a student in Jindai High School, bearing the task of protecting Kaname Chidori, later revealed to be one of a special breed of people known as the 'Whispered', beings that posses information of Black Technology.
Noteworthy enough, FMP! is based on events occurring in 1998, making the world of FMP! parallel to our own. There are some differences though. In FMP!, it was during the Cold War, with a divided China, with Hong Kong being the center of that division. This mirrors how it was for Germany and it's city, Berlin, in years past. Quite a few events happened as well that kinda mirrors what ACTUALLY occured in real time. Even Jindai High is a fictional take on a school by the same name in real time.
While FMP! is serious in tone, it's companion title, FMP? Fumoffu, doesn't share this trait. In fact, Fumoffu is a romantic comedy take, bearing little reference to the mecha theme of the original, and bearing no trace of the political theme involved. It more or less centers on the romantic tension between the two main characters, while taking a more comedic turn, notably at Sousuke's attempts to fit in as a normal person.
It returns to being serious with the direct sequel, FMP! The Second Raid. Sousuke's mission is terminated, where he is replaced by the agent known as Wraith. To add to this, he is more so on front lines against the organization Amalgam. A certain face from the original is seen once more, but the enemies this time around are a new threat, bearing Black Technology capable of defeating the ECS mode for Arm Slaves. FMP! The Second Raid also has an OVA, centering on Captain Testarossa rather than the main two characters.
In all, as a mecha, I enjoyed it, heck, I enjoyed it overall. All three gets a pretty stable 8: FMP! getting an 8, Fumoffu a 7.5 (for humor), and FMP! TSR an 8.5. This definitely falls as one of my faves overall, this being next to Detective Conan and both Ai Yori Aoshi titles. It was kinda long, but I'm glad I finally finished this article. Till next time anime fans!
Noteworthy enough, FMP! is based on events occurring in 1998, making the world of FMP! parallel to our own. There are some differences though. In FMP!, it was during the Cold War, with a divided China, with Hong Kong being the center of that division. This mirrors how it was for Germany and it's city, Berlin, in years past. Quite a few events happened as well that kinda mirrors what ACTUALLY occured in real time. Even Jindai High is a fictional take on a school by the same name in real time.
While FMP! is serious in tone, it's companion title, FMP? Fumoffu, doesn't share this trait. In fact, Fumoffu is a romantic comedy take, bearing little reference to the mecha theme of the original, and bearing no trace of the political theme involved. It more or less centers on the romantic tension between the two main characters, while taking a more comedic turn, notably at Sousuke's attempts to fit in as a normal person.
It returns to being serious with the direct sequel, FMP! The Second Raid. Sousuke's mission is terminated, where he is replaced by the agent known as Wraith. To add to this, he is more so on front lines against the organization Amalgam. A certain face from the original is seen once more, but the enemies this time around are a new threat, bearing Black Technology capable of defeating the ECS mode for Arm Slaves. FMP! The Second Raid also has an OVA, centering on Captain Testarossa rather than the main two characters.
In all, as a mecha, I enjoyed it, heck, I enjoyed it overall. All three gets a pretty stable 8: FMP! getting an 8, Fumoffu a 7.5 (for humor), and FMP! TSR an 8.5. This definitely falls as one of my faves overall, this being next to Detective Conan and both Ai Yori Aoshi titles. It was kinda long, but I'm glad I finally finished this article. Till next time anime fans!
XV: "Wicked City"
Ah yes, Wicked City... how can you watch neo-noir and not hear that name? This was another neo-noir that was surprisingly good in my book. I had my doubts, but it intrigued me.
Set in the 20th century, it's in a time when coexistence between humans and demons were stable, yet discreet, with very few people acknowledging even being a demon world, called the "Black World." Every few hundred years or so, a treaty has to be reestablished for continued harmony among the two. To oversee such things, the secretive Black Guard was created for such purpose. However, this time there's a faction called the Radicals, who plans to promote chaos by preventing the new treaty to be set. Black Guard agents Taki and Makie are issued to protect Mayart, who is said to be vital in reestablishing the treaty. Mayart appears to be the Radical's target, and things are going downhill before the three even meet. As expected of a dark, adult plot, there's blood, brutality, and rape involved. Yet the plot itself takes a twist towards the end.
Wicked City gets an 8 of 10. Another neat, dark story for the books, this actually found itslef a live-action film adaption, and a well known US comic was inspired by this title. Wicked City is indeed good, but as I've said before: it's not for everyone, especially with the talk of demons and the rape scenes involved (which seems to be a standard in neo-noir, huh?)
Set in the 20th century, it's in a time when coexistence between humans and demons were stable, yet discreet, with very few people acknowledging even being a demon world, called the "Black World." Every few hundred years or so, a treaty has to be reestablished for continued harmony among the two. To oversee such things, the secretive Black Guard was created for such purpose. However, this time there's a faction called the Radicals, who plans to promote chaos by preventing the new treaty to be set. Black Guard agents Taki and Makie are issued to protect Mayart, who is said to be vital in reestablishing the treaty. Mayart appears to be the Radical's target, and things are going downhill before the three even meet. As expected of a dark, adult plot, there's blood, brutality, and rape involved. Yet the plot itself takes a twist towards the end.
Wicked City gets an 8 of 10. Another neat, dark story for the books, this actually found itslef a live-action film adaption, and a well known US comic was inspired by this title. Wicked City is indeed good, but as I've said before: it's not for everyone, especially with the talk of demons and the rape scenes involved (which seems to be a standard in neo-noir, huh?)
XIV: "Maburaho"
I saw this before ever hearing of Magikano, and let it slip in its review. So this one covers Maburaho, a similar anime which carries a different plot.
In spite of both anime being harem and affiliating with magic, the plots completely differ from one another. In Maburaho, Kazuki Shikimori is a magic user, as is the rest of the students and teachers present. Yet, there's a huge difference with Kazuki: he can only use his magic 8 times, kinda making him the weakest link physically, compared to ordinary users who can use theirs under 100 times, and fellow classmates whose magic uses vary well over 1000 times (in spite of this, it's said that he is powerful, and it shows a few times.) Should anybody use up their magic counts, they turn to ash. Yet, on the flip side of all of this, he learns that he is the descendant of powerful magicians, and carries genes that could possibly give birth to the most powerful magician in history.
All of the sudden, three girls appear towards him, each trying to obtain his genes: Yuna Miyama, the self-proclaimed wife (how this came to be is explained in the anime at some point), Kuriko Kazetsubaki, who will take any opportunity to flirt with Kazuki (she's head of the student council and a wealthy daughter of the Kazetsubaki Family, which has a financial group), and Rin Kamishiro, a reserved student and warrior who couldn't stand much of Kazuki from the beginning (her only reason for coming for him was a family order, another explained in the anime). Over time, additional characters come into play, especially one who shares a similar past to Yuna's. The plots change as well, though you'd be surprised what happens between them, as well as how it ends.
Maburaho gets a 6.5 of 10. On a personal note, I admit I was being too nice with Magikano when I first reviewed it, but I'm sticking by what I'm grading Maburaho. Even with the magic stuff going on, it sort of follows that "loser is the main star" formula I've seen in other titles, not that I'm trying to degrade Kazuki. Note that there is a little fanservice involved, so keep that in mind as you watch. Overall, this anime has met worse reviews, yet I found it worthy at least mentioning, and personally liked it (though others are still superior to this.)
In spite of both anime being harem and affiliating with magic, the plots completely differ from one another. In Maburaho, Kazuki Shikimori is a magic user, as is the rest of the students and teachers present. Yet, there's a huge difference with Kazuki: he can only use his magic 8 times, kinda making him the weakest link physically, compared to ordinary users who can use theirs under 100 times, and fellow classmates whose magic uses vary well over 1000 times (in spite of this, it's said that he is powerful, and it shows a few times.) Should anybody use up their magic counts, they turn to ash. Yet, on the flip side of all of this, he learns that he is the descendant of powerful magicians, and carries genes that could possibly give birth to the most powerful magician in history.
All of the sudden, three girls appear towards him, each trying to obtain his genes: Yuna Miyama, the self-proclaimed wife (how this came to be is explained in the anime at some point), Kuriko Kazetsubaki, who will take any opportunity to flirt with Kazuki (she's head of the student council and a wealthy daughter of the Kazetsubaki Family, which has a financial group), and Rin Kamishiro, a reserved student and warrior who couldn't stand much of Kazuki from the beginning (her only reason for coming for him was a family order, another explained in the anime). Over time, additional characters come into play, especially one who shares a similar past to Yuna's. The plots change as well, though you'd be surprised what happens between them, as well as how it ends.
Maburaho gets a 6.5 of 10. On a personal note, I admit I was being too nice with Magikano when I first reviewed it, but I'm sticking by what I'm grading Maburaho. Even with the magic stuff going on, it sort of follows that "loser is the main star" formula I've seen in other titles, not that I'm trying to degrade Kazuki. Note that there is a little fanservice involved, so keep that in mind as you watch. Overall, this anime has met worse reviews, yet I found it worthy at least mentioning, and personally liked it (though others are still superior to this.)
XIII: "Golden Boy"
Number thirteen is about Golden Boy, a rather humorous, yet perverse anime. And I must say, in spite of its perversity, it's well worth watching to me. Golden Boy centers on many women, and one 25 year-old unemployed, perverted, "traveling student" who sees them all (LUCKY BASTARD!!) Ahem... any case, this anime deals with his many adventures associated around these different women, while on the side learning new things as a free spirit. The animation is actually an OVA, a nearly pornographic one at that (which, in spite of content, kinda excludes it from being hentai. Still, viewer's discretion is advised, and for mature audiences.)
Golden Boy is humorous, and kinda raunchy, but definitely for laughs. The main character, Kintaro Oe, is a hilarity, even with a disturbing, if not alarming fetish (don't ask.) As expected of animation of the like, the women are attractive (at least to him), and he'll try anything possible to get their attention, even more. You'll have to see the outcome for yourself, but he does what's necessary, despite his faults (which is the MOST I could say for him, the very LEAST for others like him.)
Golden Boy is a trip, and gets a 7 of 10 from me. I find it weird that it inched away from literally being hentai, but it was exciting none the less. At some point, I'll read the manga to it as well, should I find it. Ah well, that's it for this one!
Golden Boy is humorous, and kinda raunchy, but definitely for laughs. The main character, Kintaro Oe, is a hilarity, even with a disturbing, if not alarming fetish (don't ask.) As expected of animation of the like, the women are attractive (at least to him), and he'll try anything possible to get their attention, even more. You'll have to see the outcome for yourself, but he does what's necessary, despite his faults (which is the MOST I could say for him, the very LEAST for others like him.)
Golden Boy is a trip, and gets a 7 of 10 from me. I find it weird that it inched away from literally being hentai, but it was exciting none the less. At some point, I'll read the manga to it as well, should I find it. Ah well, that's it for this one!
2011/03/23
XII: "Colorful"
This title I put off for far too long before catching it again by sheer chance. Colorful, by its title alone, sounds innocent enough, so it's probably tame, right? WRONG! Colorful is more vignettes of "peeping tom" acts, as in trying to sneak a peak in woman's panties, look under their blouses, or a mix of the two. I understand that some anime has perverse and ecchi moments involved, but Colorful is an overload.
As much as I try not to be, I got rather annoyed by it. Also a tad insulted, mainly because this is how they depict teenage guys. I get that some people do behave in such a manner, but the anime kinda makes it a general statement. Yet, that isn't as bad as how they portray the more mature men in the same matter. I mean, men trying rather devious things to women already concerns me, and when it's done (or attempted) to a much younger female, it kinda sickens me. But I think that did it. Personally, I thought Golden Boy would be the one to upset me, but strangely, despite that the series was loosely similar to Colorful, I actually enjoyed that one. Colorful, not so much, but I do applaud its animation, which is sort of fast-paced.
Yet, despite that being the only trait I liked about it, Colorful gets a 2 of 10. I'm sorry. It sounds more like a rant than an actual review, but that's just how much Colorful upset me.
As much as I try not to be, I got rather annoyed by it. Also a tad insulted, mainly because this is how they depict teenage guys. I get that some people do behave in such a manner, but the anime kinda makes it a general statement. Yet, that isn't as bad as how they portray the more mature men in the same matter. I mean, men trying rather devious things to women already concerns me, and when it's done (or attempted) to a much younger female, it kinda sickens me. But I think that did it. Personally, I thought Golden Boy would be the one to upset me, but strangely, despite that the series was loosely similar to Colorful, I actually enjoyed that one. Colorful, not so much, but I do applaud its animation, which is sort of fast-paced.
Yet, despite that being the only trait I liked about it, Colorful gets a 2 of 10. I'm sorry. It sounds more like a rant than an actual review, but that's just how much Colorful upset me.
XI: "Ai Yori Aoshi" and "Ai Yori Aoshi: Enishi"
Under advice from a friend, I watched both Ai Yori Aoshi and Ai Yori Aoshi: Enishi. While the story isn't my cup of tea, I fell in love with it, and wouldn't mind recapping the entire anime series, though I've yet to see the movies. Basically, it deals with 2 characters that were engaged in their youth, and despite the events that transpired before the day they found each other again, Aoi Sakuraba is still devoted to the person she was to wed, even with the engagement called off. Talk about devotion!! Along the way, other characters enter, some interacting with the past of male lead Karou Hanabishi, who has a history not only alongside Aoi, but a bit of a negative one from the clan behind his surname. Amidst all this, as typical of most harem anime, comedy ensues in the series as well.
Both Ai Yori Aoshi, and the 12 episode follow-up, Ai Yori Aoshi: Enishi, gets the best of the best from me: 10 of 10. I can like many anime, but I fell in love with this one. Definitely one anime I plan to go back to among boredom. You can disagree with me, call me a sap, whatever, but this anime touched something in me that made me love it. I'll return with another review some time in the near future, but the Ai Yori Aoshi series is worth looking into if you're a fan of the harem genre.
Both Ai Yori Aoshi, and the 12 episode follow-up, Ai Yori Aoshi: Enishi, gets the best of the best from me: 10 of 10. I can like many anime, but I fell in love with this one. Definitely one anime I plan to go back to among boredom. You can disagree with me, call me a sap, whatever, but this anime touched something in me that made me love it. I'll return with another review some time in the near future, but the Ai Yori Aoshi series is worth looking into if you're a fan of the harem genre.
X: "Magikano"
Y'know, inadvertently, I end up watching and eventually getting hooked on harem anime for what seems to be no reason at all. This next title is of such anime, called Magikano. As it is a harem anime, it also counts as romantic comedy (seems to go well hand-in-hand, huh?) This anime generally deals with magic, hence the title, which the main male character, Haruo Yoshikawa, isn't quite aware of. More to say, by dumb luck he sees it and somehow forgets (you'll know when you see it.)In the pilot ep he notices a cute girl, who ends up sitting behind him, as well as moving in as a maid. And, well... she's a witch, which is something still kept in the dark to him. His sisters try to see to it that he lives a normal life (also witches), but there is a deep secret about him that he himself isn't quite aware of, for better or worse.
Not to bring any spoilers, but if you have seen the anime Maburaho, and notice that one of the characters in Magikano sounds like someone from the other anime, you're not too far off. It's meaningless to say here, but indeed Ayumi Mamiya has the same English voice actor as Maburaho's Yuna Miyami: Jessica Boone, who also did Angelic Layer's Misaki Suzuhara (though I find it odd that their last names are just rearranged, among other things regarding those two.) Still, if you want to know the plot behind it, good luck. For the bulk of it, it's mostly comedy, if you don't include a few "meme" references within it. Still it does have one, and it's much deeper than what was stated in the first episode. Of course, the scenario of the girl trying hard to get the guy, with others in the way, hilariously it's still there. So expect a lot of that going on.
Against common reviews/critics against it, and despite how much the ending appealed LESS to me, I'll give Magikano a 6 of 10. A few parts made me want to gag, but I was kept entertained for the most part. It's only 13 episodes, so yeah, it's pretty short. Still, if you see it, and have complaints over the plot of the story, that's you and a lot of people.
Not to bring any spoilers, but if you have seen the anime Maburaho, and notice that one of the characters in Magikano sounds like someone from the other anime, you're not too far off. It's meaningless to say here, but indeed Ayumi Mamiya has the same English voice actor as Maburaho's Yuna Miyami: Jessica Boone, who also did Angelic Layer's Misaki Suzuhara (though I find it odd that their last names are just rearranged, among other things regarding those two.) Still, if you want to know the plot behind it, good luck. For the bulk of it, it's mostly comedy, if you don't include a few "meme" references within it. Still it does have one, and it's much deeper than what was stated in the first episode. Of course, the scenario of the girl trying hard to get the guy, with others in the way, hilariously it's still there. So expect a lot of that going on.
Against common reviews/critics against it, and despite how much the ending appealed LESS to me, I'll give Magikano a 6 of 10. A few parts made me want to gag, but I was kept entertained for the most part. It's only 13 episodes, so yeah, it's pretty short. Still, if you see it, and have complaints over the plot of the story, that's you and a lot of people.
IX: "Kiddy Grade" and "Kiddy Girl-AND"
The ninth post is also a double dose, dealing with the same universe and series this time. The first one I'll get into is Kiddy Grade. While I tend to watch a lot of science fiction, the Gundam series being my fave among them, Kiddy Grade has a spot in my heart as well. The GOTT ES (Shadow Unit) members, Eclair and Lumiere, are teammates with different personalities, but both with incredible abilities. Over time, the circumstances with the plot changes, along with appearances, and hints to the past lives of mostly Eclair. I found it pretty deep.
Those two would show up later in the series follow-up, Kiddy Girl-AND (when I won't say, just to avoid spoiling). The heroines are different this time around, the plot is different, and the twists differ as well. Yet it carries the same air as its predecessor. There are changes seen from the second half of Kiddy Grade onward, so if you've watched the first one, then expect to see familiar faces in Kiddy Girl-AND, for the most part with a different appearance.
Kiddy Grade get's an 8.5 from me, while I leave it an 8 for Kiddy Girl-AND. I loved both series, but I suppose I'd ask to much for a third entry to the series. Still, they're both great ones to me.
Those two would show up later in the series follow-up, Kiddy Girl-AND (when I won't say, just to avoid spoiling). The heroines are different this time around, the plot is different, and the twists differ as well. Yet it carries the same air as its predecessor. There are changes seen from the second half of Kiddy Grade onward, so if you've watched the first one, then expect to see familiar faces in Kiddy Girl-AND, for the most part with a different appearance.
Kiddy Grade get's an 8.5 from me, while I leave it an 8 for Kiddy Girl-AND. I loved both series, but I suppose I'd ask to much for a third entry to the series. Still, they're both great ones to me.
VII: "Black Cat" and "To Love-Ru"
Recovering from a cold a month ago, I did my first multi-anime review as my 7th post on Black Cat and To Love-Ru.
Black Cat is generally an action paced anime, with some comedic moments involved. It centers around Train Heartnet, who leaves his position from the organization Chronos, and becomes a Sweeper. Despite his complete shift in persona, people normally recognize him by the number 13 (XIII) tattoo near his neck. He is also known as the titular character Black Cat, as he was dressed in complete black when working as a Chronos Number, giving bad luck to his assigned targets. This follows primarily his life as a sweeper, who harbors inside a bit of revenge for the death of Saya, a woman that "freed him" before her end by his enemy, Creed Discenth. The series runs for 24 episodes, licensed by Funimation.
Next to that, we have To Love-Ru, which is a Sci-fi harem comedy. As the typical guy who has no luck in asking out the girl of his dreams, Rito Yuuki is dazed to find an alien in his bathroom (the very tub he was in, the lucky bum!) This alien, Princess Lala Deviluke, chooses to marry Rito after refusing to go back home to marry one of her arranged candidates. Over time, she truly falls in love with Rito, and after being reported by Commander Zastin, the emperor acknowledges this under one premise: if he fails to meet his expectations and cannot protect Lala from other fiancés, his life, as well as that of Earth, are doomed. Simply put, if marriage is a life changing experience, then for Rito, it's a matter of life or death, especially for him. This anime harbors 26 episodes, in addition to 6 OVAs and a follow-up series Motto To Love-Ru.
Despite the difference in plots and characters, To Love-Ru has a few references from Black Cat. (This is the tidbit spoilers, if you don't wish to know now, avoid this section) For starters, Eve of Black Cat, and Golden Darkness/Yami of To Love-Ru aren't one in the same, but have similar features to one another. She shares Eve's trait of morphing her body to anything she desires, most of which are weapons. They even have the same seiyuu (coincedence?) Next is Kyouko Kirisaki, a character in BOTH titles. In Black Cat, she is one of the opposing faction to Chronos, called the Apostles of the Stars (though she eventually leaves). She carries a Tao power to control fire. In To Love-Ru, she is half-alien, half-human, also able to manipulate fire. She is mostly seen as the heroine "Magical Kyouko" on a show Lala got really hooked on to. She has more appearances in the manga (as usually the case regarding ANY character), but the civilian clothes seen on the show looks close to, if not the exact copy of, the outfit worn in Black Cat.
Enough babbling. I grade Black Cat an 8 of 10, as it is a good balance of silliness and serious moments, while To Love-Ru gets a 7.5 of 10 from me. Even though I tend to fume from jealousy sometimes in dealing with harem, I enjoyed what I could about To Love-Ru, the follow up series, and the OVA. I liked them, I doubt you'd feel the same, but they're out there if you want to go check them out.
Black Cat is generally an action paced anime, with some comedic moments involved. It centers around Train Heartnet, who leaves his position from the organization Chronos, and becomes a Sweeper. Despite his complete shift in persona, people normally recognize him by the number 13 (XIII) tattoo near his neck. He is also known as the titular character Black Cat, as he was dressed in complete black when working as a Chronos Number, giving bad luck to his assigned targets. This follows primarily his life as a sweeper, who harbors inside a bit of revenge for the death of Saya, a woman that "freed him" before her end by his enemy, Creed Discenth. The series runs for 24 episodes, licensed by Funimation.
Next to that, we have To Love-Ru, which is a Sci-fi harem comedy. As the typical guy who has no luck in asking out the girl of his dreams, Rito Yuuki is dazed to find an alien in his bathroom (the very tub he was in, the lucky bum!) This alien, Princess Lala Deviluke, chooses to marry Rito after refusing to go back home to marry one of her arranged candidates. Over time, she truly falls in love with Rito, and after being reported by Commander Zastin, the emperor acknowledges this under one premise: if he fails to meet his expectations and cannot protect Lala from other fiancés, his life, as well as that of Earth, are doomed. Simply put, if marriage is a life changing experience, then for Rito, it's a matter of life or death, especially for him. This anime harbors 26 episodes, in addition to 6 OVAs and a follow-up series Motto To Love-Ru.
Despite the difference in plots and characters, To Love-Ru has a few references from Black Cat. (This is the tidbit spoilers, if you don't wish to know now, avoid this section) For starters, Eve of Black Cat, and Golden Darkness/Yami of To Love-Ru aren't one in the same, but have similar features to one another. She shares Eve's trait of morphing her body to anything she desires, most of which are weapons. They even have the same seiyuu (coincedence?) Next is Kyouko Kirisaki, a character in BOTH titles. In Black Cat, she is one of the opposing faction to Chronos, called the Apostles of the Stars (though she eventually leaves). She carries a Tao power to control fire. In To Love-Ru, she is half-alien, half-human, also able to manipulate fire. She is mostly seen as the heroine "Magical Kyouko" on a show Lala got really hooked on to. She has more appearances in the manga (as usually the case regarding ANY character), but the civilian clothes seen on the show looks close to, if not the exact copy of, the outfit worn in Black Cat.
Enough babbling. I grade Black Cat an 8 of 10, as it is a good balance of silliness and serious moments, while To Love-Ru gets a 7.5 of 10 from me. Even though I tend to fume from jealousy sometimes in dealing with harem, I enjoyed what I could about To Love-Ru, the follow up series, and the OVA. I liked them, I doubt you'd feel the same, but they're out there if you want to go check them out.
VI: "Green Green"
I got another for ya. I can't say that this is hentai, as much as it is based off of one, so a few moments of ecchi might be involved in this title (and by that I mean nudity is a STRONG focus in this one! Definitely must be of legal age and have tolerance of that to even watch, I'm warning you.) My 6th review is the less-known anime Green Green (odd, ain't it?), based off an ero visual novel of the same title. It took me a while to find out what I want to say about it, but here it goes to the best of my ability.
Check around for the detail of the visual novel of the game, but here's the gist of the anime's background. The Kanenone Gakuen is an all male boarding school isolated in the wilderness (I guess for all the right reasons.) However, it was proposed that the all-male academy would turn co-ed, something that the girl-deprived male students got excited over. The main ones in particular happens to be the Baka Trio, who are friends, albeit terrible ones, to Yuusuke Takashi, the main male character of this story. After preparing, the bus with the female students finally arrive. And when Yuusuke is pushed to the front to welcome them, one female student, Midori Chitose, leaps and hugs him as if she knew him before. Be it a mix of confusion or his head injury (caused by Midori's greeting), Yuusuke doesn't remember her. Combined with the antics of the Baka Trio, and the actions of those like the tomboyish Futaba, Yuusuke is going to have a hard time with Midori.
Common to most anime adapted from ero visual novels, the storyline is tweaked quite a bit. I must say though, anime wise, there are 12 episodes released here, but in truth, there is a 13th one, which is without question considered hentai. This was labeled as an OVA, and not packaged (don't ask how I managed to see it.) There were other OVAs concerning this title, but I have not seen any aside from the previously mentioned one, and I heard one got rather poor reception anyway. The 12-episode anime is licensed for US via Media Blasters, with the two main characters, Midori Chitose and Yuusuke Takashi, voiced by Cindy Robinson and Bryce Papenbrook (respectively) in the dub.
All in all, I give it a 7 of 10, partly because I found it rather tolerable from start to finish (though the voice of the main female, Midori, was a little hard to bear at times in general), and that on a personal level... I kinda relate to the male character Yuusuke (and I mean RELATE, I won't go in the details). Still, not the best one and one of the least known titles out there, but I did at least thought it was pretty decent.
Check around for the detail of the visual novel of the game, but here's the gist of the anime's background. The Kanenone Gakuen is an all male boarding school isolated in the wilderness (I guess for all the right reasons.) However, it was proposed that the all-male academy would turn co-ed, something that the girl-deprived male students got excited over. The main ones in particular happens to be the Baka Trio, who are friends, albeit terrible ones, to Yuusuke Takashi, the main male character of this story. After preparing, the bus with the female students finally arrive. And when Yuusuke is pushed to the front to welcome them, one female student, Midori Chitose, leaps and hugs him as if she knew him before. Be it a mix of confusion or his head injury (caused by Midori's greeting), Yuusuke doesn't remember her. Combined with the antics of the Baka Trio, and the actions of those like the tomboyish Futaba, Yuusuke is going to have a hard time with Midori.
Common to most anime adapted from ero visual novels, the storyline is tweaked quite a bit. I must say though, anime wise, there are 12 episodes released here, but in truth, there is a 13th one, which is without question considered hentai. This was labeled as an OVA, and not packaged (don't ask how I managed to see it.) There were other OVAs concerning this title, but I have not seen any aside from the previously mentioned one, and I heard one got rather poor reception anyway. The 12-episode anime is licensed for US via Media Blasters, with the two main characters, Midori Chitose and Yuusuke Takashi, voiced by Cindy Robinson and Bryce Papenbrook (respectively) in the dub.
All in all, I give it a 7 of 10, partly because I found it rather tolerable from start to finish (though the voice of the main female, Midori, was a little hard to bear at times in general), and that on a personal level... I kinda relate to the male character Yuusuke (and I mean RELATE, I won't go in the details). Still, not the best one and one of the least known titles out there, but I did at least thought it was pretty decent.
IV: "Hell Teacher Nube"
This title is an old anime by the English name Hell Teacher Nube (Jigoku Sensei Nube for those who don't know.) I'll start off by saying that I must be a sucker for anime dealing with unusual teachers. Ah, well, back to the main topic of this post. Hell Teacher Nube deals with a teacher for an elementary school, who has a few interesting things about him. First, while he takes his teaching job seriously, this is shared by his devotion as an exorcist for the supernatural. Second, he has a demon hand usually sealed by a glove, and won't hesitate to use it to banish those that brings harm to his students.
That said, he also has a comical side to him, such as when he tries to impress his crush, who is also another teacher. Even more so when an old acquaintance appears, things get a tad sillier. He also has a rival, who is a Kitsune (fox demon). I'd tell you more, but then I'd be better off telling you the entire series, which is no fun for me (j/k)
Still, this gets a 6.5 on my Wolf scale. Not the greatest I have seen to date, but it had me in for laughs, despite being quite old. This is the type of anime I'll watch to lighten my mood from a bad day. Check it out if you wish, but I suggest actually finding the DVD, or VHS (if anyone still uses them.) The streaming episodes on the web are slightly unaligned (which kinda ruins the fun sometimes...)
That said, he also has a comical side to him, such as when he tries to impress his crush, who is also another teacher. Even more so when an old acquaintance appears, things get a tad sillier. He also has a rival, who is a Kitsune (fox demon). I'd tell you more, but then I'd be better off telling you the entire series, which is no fun for me (j/k)
Still, this gets a 6.5 on my Wolf scale. Not the greatest I have seen to date, but it had me in for laughs, despite being quite old. This is the type of anime I'll watch to lighten my mood from a bad day. Check it out if you wish, but I suggest actually finding the DVD, or VHS (if anyone still uses them.) The streaming episodes on the web are slightly unaligned (which kinda ruins the fun sometimes...)
II: "Panty and Stocking with Garterbelt"
(Updated 2012/06/05)
A while back, I checked out this rather odd anime called Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt, and I must say: I've seen my share of random things, but I dunno what to say about this. For starters, the anime, in its entirety, isn't suitable for a younger audience (as if the name didn't suggest it enough.) Each episode is made of two segments (three in episode 10), and the titles of those segments are parodies on movies, TV shows, etc. I won't spoil it for you, but the anime left me speechless, more so the last episode. That said, it hints another season, perhaps, but that's still up in the air at this point. Now that it's dubbed, I've seen both sides of the matter, rethinking my verdict from before. So alas, despite my first score, I'm gonna revisit this one, though what I have to say about it mainly doesn't differ much.
Well, this is about 2 angels whose names are Panty and Stocking. One loves to have sex and is small in body size and patience, and the other is well endowed, namely her bust about as big as her love for sweets. Despite being angels, the Anarchy Sisters (yes, Anarchy appears to be their last name) are kicked out of Heaven due to their bad behavior. Because of this, they fall into Daten City, which resides between Heaven and Hell. In order to return to Heaven, they must collect enough Heaven Coins by vanquishing strange beings called Ghosts. Armed with transformable panties and stockings, and under the watchful eye of Reverend Garterbelt, Panty and Stocking have quite the task ahead, but they'll have to put up with chaos (and each other) in the process.
My reaction to this was sort of mixed. I got drawn to it on a whim, and after a couple of episodes, I doubt I was gonna go back to it, but I finished it. I won't say that it left my mind destroyed (that honor belongs to Excel Saga), but as I stated before, it did leave me at a loss for words. I wasn't going to touch this again, but the dubbing left me awfully courious, and I'm glad it did, since to me, it was worth a second look. Don't take my word for it though. If you want to, see it for yourself, and comment on this post if you feel any different about this anime. But it sure did a number on me. As I went in to how the episode format was, I can say that each episode runs for 30 minutes. Produced by Gainax, it was being simulcasted on Crunchyroll, but Funimation has licensed this series recently. Recently, it has not only seen English language, unlike what I first assumed, but the DVDs are available for Pre-Order already, with their premier 2 dubbed episodes available on their website, the rest subbed. Christopher Sabat voices Garterbelt, with the Anarchy Sisters voiced as well. For Panty, her VA is Jamie Marchi (who did others like Shizuka Nekonome of Rosario + Vampire), and Stocking is voiced by Monica Rial (who voiced Minamo "Nyamo" Kurosawa of Azumanga Daioh). Lastly, another regular, Brief, is voiced over in English by Joel McDonald, who is also known for roles like Takumi Fujiwara in the animated Initial D works.
While I graded it low originally, the dub made me warm up to it, but I should warn you like as with the subbed version, the dub, ESPECIALLY UNCENSORED, it definitely not safe for the young. Taking back my earlier rating of 3.5, I'm gonna increase it with a few personal points and call it a 6 of 10 for Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt. It was funny yet confusing in some areas, but all the while tolerable. Mind not the puns and the crude jokes in it, but as I said, it's not for the young, nor those sensitive about such things. In spite of all this, the anime is pretty okay. Those that are fans will most likely aim to preorder the DVDs.
A while back, I checked out this rather odd anime called Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt, and I must say: I've seen my share of random things, but I dunno what to say about this. For starters, the anime, in its entirety, isn't suitable for a younger audience (as if the name didn't suggest it enough.) Each episode is made of two segments (three in episode 10), and the titles of those segments are parodies on movies, TV shows, etc. I won't spoil it for you, but the anime left me speechless, more so the last episode. That said, it hints another season, perhaps, but that's still up in the air at this point. Now that it's dubbed, I've seen both sides of the matter, rethinking my verdict from before. So alas, despite my first score, I'm gonna revisit this one, though what I have to say about it mainly doesn't differ much.
Well, this is about 2 angels whose names are Panty and Stocking. One loves to have sex and is small in body size and patience, and the other is well endowed, namely her bust about as big as her love for sweets. Despite being angels, the Anarchy Sisters (yes, Anarchy appears to be their last name) are kicked out of Heaven due to their bad behavior. Because of this, they fall into Daten City, which resides between Heaven and Hell. In order to return to Heaven, they must collect enough Heaven Coins by vanquishing strange beings called Ghosts. Armed with transformable panties and stockings, and under the watchful eye of Reverend Garterbelt, Panty and Stocking have quite the task ahead, but they'll have to put up with chaos (and each other) in the process.
My reaction to this was sort of mixed. I got drawn to it on a whim, and after a couple of episodes, I doubt I was gonna go back to it, but I finished it. I won't say that it left my mind destroyed (that honor belongs to Excel Saga), but as I stated before, it did leave me at a loss for words. I wasn't going to touch this again, but the dubbing left me awfully courious, and I'm glad it did, since to me, it was worth a second look. Don't take my word for it though. If you want to, see it for yourself, and comment on this post if you feel any different about this anime. But it sure did a number on me. As I went in to how the episode format was, I can say that each episode runs for 30 minutes. Produced by Gainax, it was being simulcasted on Crunchyroll, but Funimation has licensed this series recently. Recently, it has not only seen English language, unlike what I first assumed, but the DVDs are available for Pre-Order already, with their premier 2 dubbed episodes available on their website, the rest subbed. Christopher Sabat voices Garterbelt, with the Anarchy Sisters voiced as well. For Panty, her VA is Jamie Marchi (who did others like Shizuka Nekonome of Rosario + Vampire), and Stocking is voiced by Monica Rial (who voiced Minamo "Nyamo" Kurosawa of Azumanga Daioh). Lastly, another regular, Brief, is voiced over in English by Joel McDonald, who is also known for roles like Takumi Fujiwara in the animated Initial D works.
While I graded it low originally, the dub made me warm up to it, but I should warn you like as with the subbed version, the dub, ESPECIALLY UNCENSORED, it definitely not safe for the young. Taking back my earlier rating of 3.5, I'm gonna increase it with a few personal points and call it a 6 of 10 for Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt. It was funny yet confusing in some areas, but all the while tolerable. Mind not the puns and the crude jokes in it, but as I said, it's not for the young, nor those sensitive about such things. In spite of all this, the anime is pretty okay. Those that are fans will most likely aim to preorder the DVDs.
I: "Witchblade"
The first one I've seen since the creation of my original blog was Witchblade. Kinda spicy for my tastes, but I loved it. It did leave me at a loss for words the first time I saw it, though. Looking at the show the first time, I was like, "WTH", based on what I saw late in the 1st episode; there were certain characters that I couldn't stand (which reminded me of people like them in real life, I won't say who for either) and the ending made me kinda mad. Still it was as good as a friend put it, so I thank her for recommending it to me.
Based on the comic book, the Witchblade anime deals with Masane Amaba, the new chosen wielder of the Witchblade. Masane means well, but in terms of household duties, she's a bit of a klutz. After the Great Quake ravaged Tokyo some years ago, she is found unscathed at ground zero with a child in her arms. Masane came out of it alive, but at the cost of her memory. Six years pass, and Masane plans to have a peaceful life with the child Rihiko, who she believe is hers. However, from the jump, she is caught in the power struggle between a government agency NWSF (she deals with this group's Child Welfare Division early in the anime) and a huge coropration, not to mention that as the host of the Witchblade, she gains abilities to fight, but it gradually eats away at her life force. Such is the downside of the artifact, and with Masane as a temprary host, she must do whatever is possible to secure a future for Rihiko... even though Masane herself may not be part of that future.
Licensed for the US under Funimation, the anime lasts for 24 episodes made in the Gonzo studio. On TV, the series is rated TV-MA, so it's not advisable for the young to see it. Even so, there is a bit of a difference between the TV and DVD versions. Because the original design showed too much skin, they darkened these aireas, and returned it to the original form in the DVD release. Another difference is that compared to the American comic, the cast and setup of the anime are entirely original. The comic book and TV series protagonist was a NYPD homocide investigator, Sara Pezzini, who happens to come in contact with it. In the anime, Masane has it without any regards to how she came in contact with it. All this combined with other factors, some may consider it to be nearly completely unaffiliated with the Top Cow comic.
Witchblade got an 8 of 10 from me, but I didn't post it before since my Wolf Scale was made on the second post. I say that it's worth checking out, but there are others by the same title worth noting as well, though the storyline for the other media differed from the anime. It has a bit of a raunchy feel to it, so if that's not your cup of tea, then don't force yourself to see it.
Based on the comic book, the Witchblade anime deals with Masane Amaba, the new chosen wielder of the Witchblade. Masane means well, but in terms of household duties, she's a bit of a klutz. After the Great Quake ravaged Tokyo some years ago, she is found unscathed at ground zero with a child in her arms. Masane came out of it alive, but at the cost of her memory. Six years pass, and Masane plans to have a peaceful life with the child Rihiko, who she believe is hers. However, from the jump, she is caught in the power struggle between a government agency NWSF (she deals with this group's Child Welfare Division early in the anime) and a huge coropration, not to mention that as the host of the Witchblade, she gains abilities to fight, but it gradually eats away at her life force. Such is the downside of the artifact, and with Masane as a temprary host, she must do whatever is possible to secure a future for Rihiko... even though Masane herself may not be part of that future.
Licensed for the US under Funimation, the anime lasts for 24 episodes made in the Gonzo studio. On TV, the series is rated TV-MA, so it's not advisable for the young to see it. Even so, there is a bit of a difference between the TV and DVD versions. Because the original design showed too much skin, they darkened these aireas, and returned it to the original form in the DVD release. Another difference is that compared to the American comic, the cast and setup of the anime are entirely original. The comic book and TV series protagonist was a NYPD homocide investigator, Sara Pezzini, who happens to come in contact with it. In the anime, Masane has it without any regards to how she came in contact with it. All this combined with other factors, some may consider it to be nearly completely unaffiliated with the Top Cow comic.
Witchblade got an 8 of 10 from me, but I didn't post it before since my Wolf Scale was made on the second post. I say that it's worth checking out, but there are others by the same title worth noting as well, though the storyline for the other media differed from the anime. It has a bit of a raunchy feel to it, so if that's not your cup of tea, then don't force yourself to see it.
Anime fans rejoice!!
This is Seiko Wolf, creator of the 'Life of Seiko Wolf' blog. This new one is strictly anime reviews and such. So any you may have seen on my previous blog will end up here as well as future posts of anime seen or mentioned. As i said before, if you feel uncomfortable of such things, feel free to ignore this blog. I know that some things aren't meant for everyone. Still, as always, enjoy your stay.
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