While out of town, I had limited access to Internet, but I was able to catch up on Last Exile. Years ago, Ender had suggested it to me, and I watched bits of the first episode and lost interest. However, with all this time to kill, I decided it was time for a [...]
In spite of its rather lackluster production values, Suzuka really emerged for me as one of the most enjoyable series of 2005. While it’s not flashy or anything, the simple romantic story is well told and the characters are really wonderful. Unlike in other series, Suzuka doesn’t just fall head over heels for [...]
For those who were expecting something more along the lines of the original Futakoi, Futakoi Alternative quickly set them right. Futakoi Alternative is not much of a harem series, and in fact the conclusion goes against your standard “Pick one, or put off the decision” harem ending, as Rentarou’s decision that they will be [...]
I recently saw Grave of the Fireflies for the first time. Yeah, seriously I hadn’t seen it before. It was definitely not my usual fare, painting quite the poignant portait of life in Japan towards the end of WWII. Even though it isn’t the sort of thing I usually like, I have [...]
Samurai Champloo is an interesting series, because it is not always good in the traditional sense. The simple plot revolves around Fuu searching for the Sunflower Samurai, but more often than not, the goal is completely abandoned for several episodes to go on some silly excursion. Where Samurai Champloo is very strong, however, [...]
Mai Hime was extremely hyped up when it first came out, but man those first three episodes sucked something spectacular (aside from the initial battle scenes between Natsuki and Mikoto). Thankfully, as the show settled into a groove, Nagi toned down his annoyance level, the various secondary characters became extremely engaging, and Mai treated [...]
In the wake of Suigin Tou’s assault, Jun’s ring miraculously shields Shinku from the blast. While Suigin Tou is distracted, Suisei Seki and Sousei Seki steal back their glowy things and with Hina Ichigo’s help, they cover Jun’s retreat. Jun takes Shinku to this impressive cloth house he built in elementary school, but [...]
