JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS – FRIEREN – BEYOND JOURNEY’S END – MY OWN IMPRESSIONS

FRIEREN – BEYOND JOURNEY’S END

STUDIO: MADHOUSE

GENRE: FANTASY, ADVENTURE, DRAMA

Hello my friends. Welcome to another entry of my blog.

I want to start saying this…. Happy New Year 2024. I hope all of you got really cool, amazing holidays all over this month. But I want to ask you a question… Have any of you ever thought that perhaps you could do something better in the past? That you want to restart again a time in your life to make it better.

Well… That is the thought we got here.

 And for me… What a better way to start this New Year than publishing a new review?

Ant this time, I want to start talking about FRIEREN: Beyond Journey’s End

But before I start, I wanted to ask you, especially since we started 2024…

Are you my friends, ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes, then I am happy.

Now let’s go Beyond the End of the Journey.

PREMISE

This time, I will go something different. Now, I will try to talk about my own feelings with Frieren – Beyond Journey’s End rather than being merely critical about the qualities of the series. For those who haven’t read me before, I tend to pinpoint elements like animation, music, rhythm and narrative of every series I comment, but I now… I will apeak more freely about the anime I have watched.

With that said…

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, or Sousou no Frieren (葬送のフリーレン), is based on the manga written by Kanehito Yamada and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe abut Frieren, an elf who became a member of the Guild that, after a ten-year quest, defeat the Demon Lord, and as celebration, Frieren and her partners, the hero Himmel, the priest Heiter (or corrupt priest as she calls him, and the dwarf Eisen, watch a wonderful meteor shower, and make the promise of witness the same event fifty years later. And so do they.

But there is a problem – Frieren’s lifespan, as well as elven in general, comprises millennia, and Frieren is not the exception, which is why she practically does not age, unlike Himmel and Heiter. Well, Eisen doesn’t age either, but his lifespan is shorter than Frieren’s. so, she does not really have the emotional and existential touch that humans got, and that allows us to live the present as if it was the last moment.

I am saying this because, fifty years later, the disbanded party meets again to witness the same meteor shower. However, Himmel dies shortly afterwards. Immediately, Frieren expressed guilt over not attempting to know Himmel better, and that perhaps is too late, despite the solace of Heiter and Eisen.

Inspired by this, Frieren embarks in a journey to try to understand humanity better, along with her new magic apprentice, Fern, who was adopted by Heiter at a young age, Stark, a student of Eisen with a great strength and many insecurities, and Sein, a very laid-back priest.

Yamada and Abe started publishing Frieren through Shogakukan, and Viz Media in English language, from April 2020, and as of January 2024, Frieren has already published of 12 volumes, and a total of 122 volumes. The anime adaptation was produced by Madhouse (Monster, Death Note), and it started broadcasting in Spetember 2023, completing a total of 20 episodes.

A super waku, waku factor is that the seiyuu of Frieren is none other than Atsumi Tanezaki

Finally, the first opening, Yuusha, or Hero, is performed by Yoasobi. I think we are all familiar with this musical group, but for those who are not, I want to tell that they performed two wonderful themes before.

1. First opening of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch of Mercury.

2. Idol, from Oshi no Ko.

Now, I am aware that many fans have been a bit critical due to the energetic tone and the upbeat music of Yuusha, because they perceived it was nothing to do with the tone and atmosphere of Frieren.  But, for me, I do not have any issue with the song, because I think it gives me a bit of hope for Frieren in her quest to understand humanity, and, as we all know, it can be a big rollercoaster, especially since Frieren is always remembering her previous partners throughout the story.

I know that perhaps this is a very mechanical interpretation, but one I am very comfortable with it. I know someone out there will agree with me, even partially.

Finally, according to Shogakukan, Frieren has sold over 20 million copies.

STORY

Now… The moment I was hoping for.

For the very beginning, I started to enjoy Frieren a lot, especially after the episodes in which she starts her journey with Fern, because I perceive a new perspective about the fantasy genre, in the sense that some fantasy stories are focused more on adventure and fighting evil or the Demon King. Here, Frieren has a similar concept as Mushoku Tensei, studying more the lifestyle of the world the action is taking place.

Now. both Frieren and Mushoku Tensei are fantastic series, but they are the same. For the latter is about a MC that starts to live a fulfilled life, and the former is about trying to understand and appreciate life itself better. Be as it may be, Frieren has a pretty original concept itself.

Every time we watch Frieren, I perceived this feel-good atmosphere, because the series takes its time to develop the characters and make them grow with every episode it passes. And due to the beauty of the animation, you slowly become inmersive enough. And there moments of adventure that are pretty good, especially during episodes 8 to 10, in which Frieren, Fern and Stark have to deal with this character, called Aura the Guillotine, and her minions, Lugner and Linnie. All of them were pretty dangerous, but we could all perceive that these antagonists are not one-dimensional. On the contrary, the three are pretty dangerous, but after you know better Fern and Stark, you are aware of the evolution of each protagonist, especially Frieren.

My only concern is about the rhythm that sometimes I find a bit slow, but wait… I am not saying this as a criticism, I am saying this as a trivia, because probablu not everyone will enjoy a story with such a relaxed pace like Frieren, and perhaps they want to watch something more energetic, like Attack on Titan or The Rising of the Shield Hero. Personally, I love that too, but many fans might find that type of stories frustrating.

However, I always welcome stories like Mushoku Tensei, or Frieren.

Nonetheless, while the animation itself is beautiful, some of the character design does not really convince enough. One example is Lugner, practically due to this meme.

Because, in many cases, it can be dull, especially during the First-Class Exam. After watching some of the new episodes, and seeing some of the design of the characters, I don’t think Madhouse actually got the essence of some of the characters.

One example is Übel.

In the manga, she looks more imposing, but in the anime, despite not looking bad, she doesn’t look threating, and believe, Übel is a force to be reckoned with. if it wasn’t for the story…

Luckily, I was pretty scared with Aura the Guillotine. I find her attractive, but also dangerous, just like Übel. And the dark moments are pretty scary. Trust me, the more you get into the story, the more you sympathise with Frieren, and find it more engaging.

I want still watching the whole Frieren anime, to be honest. But I have found its world and story pretty engaging, I hope it gets a second season, because, like that, I will learn to enjoy as much as I have enjoyed Mushoku Tensei and To Your Eternity, both filled with the same amount of drama.

CHARACTERS

Now, since Frieren is a series about an elf who goes in a journey to understand humanity, that means that the characters must be nice too. And actually, they are.

Despite having passed away during the first episodes, both Himmel and Heiter come across as very good characters, that is mostly because of the flashbacks of Frieren that covers some of its backstory. But you do not need those flashbacks to relate with Frieren, Himmel and Heiter, because they are already interesting.

Before I continue, I like the fact that the names are all German words, Frieren, Fern, Stark, Himmel, Heiter, Eisen. I give Frieren some vibes from the Grimm Brothers, just like with Ranking of Kings and its animation.

However, if I have to be honest, at the beginning I found both Fern and Stark a bit annoying, Fern because of her blunt and stoic personality, and Stark due to being obnoxious when he is scared. As if he was trying to be a second Zenitsu.

But later I thought… That’s ok. They are both children, and that means we still have to go a lot through. That is why both got Frieren and Sein, to instruct them in many parts of their lives. Speaking of both Fern and Stark, I like their chemistry, to the point that there is a point in which you know that they have a mutual crush.

In the words of Sein…

Overall, after you meet our protagonists, and see by yourself what they go through, you love and want to share with them on this aura of feel-good.

CONCLUSION

Overall, Frieren was the biggest surprise of the late 2023. After watching the last episodes of the second season of Mushoku Tensei, Part I, I thought nothing could be this engaging in terms of fantasy genre, especially after watching The Rising of the Shield Hero again, and not being that invested. But after watching Frieren, I know why it has become so popular, personally it has all the chances to be one of the best anime of 2023.

The animation is decent, the characters are fun to watch, the concept is great, and overall, it made me go beyond journey’s end. And hopefully after this series is finished, it will be renewed for a second season.

Only time will tell.

And just like Frieren, we wouldn’t be worrying about being there for finding out.

Also… Good news my friends… My book Magical Missions – The New Chosen Ones, has been improved and released, some of my friends have loved it. Go to Google Play Books, take a look and read it.

https://www.xlibris.com/en-AU/bookstore/bookdetails/789329-magical-missions-the-new-chosen-ones

https://books.google.com.au/books/about/Magical_Missions_the_New_Chosen_Ones.html?id=n4NP0AEACAAJ&redir_esc=y

Trust me…. Frieren has already loved it.

So please buy it, otherwise, Fern will be angry…

…And Zenitsu… I mean, Stark will cry like a baby.

But seriously, even a small peek into my book will help me a lot.

See you next time. and…

And how can we forget about mimic-kun?

JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS – HELLS PARADISE – JIGOKURAKU – MY FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku

Studio: MAPPA

Genre: Dark Fantasy, Adventure

Hello my friends, Welcome to another entry of my blog. I take this opportunity to reveal that in a couple of days I will make a very important announcement, do not worry, it is not what you think. It is in fact… a very… VERY good news. But I will tell you know when the time comes. I am sure you will love it.

Until then, I will continue with the reviews that I love to do… Anime. And here, I will take about a very good series of this amazing time. After so much time, I am trying to recover the lost time, which is why I am starting to talk about…

I hope you like my thoughts of the new goose that lays golden eggs of Studio MAPPA.

But before I start my review, I must ask you the typical question;

Are you guys ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes, then I am happy.

 Now… time for us to go to the most beautiful, worldly part of Inferno with Hell’s Paradise – Jigo… Jigo… Jigokaku? JIGOKURAKU. Damn. Why am struggling with the last word. Anyway.

PREMISE

Based on the manga written and illustrated by Yuji Kaku. Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku… (Yeah, I wrote it correctly), takes us to the Edo Period of Japan, with one of the deadliest, most infamous and powerful ninja around, Gabimaru the Hollow, member of the Iwagakure Clan. During one mission, Gabimaru is captured and sentenced to death, but there is a problem – nothing can kill Gabimaru, decapitation, burning, dismemberment, nothing is effective against the powerful ninja, much to the surprise of the officers of the shogunate. However, one day, an executioner, called Yamada Saemon Asagiri, offer Gabimaru the opportunity of a pardon with one condition – he must obtain the Elixir of Life, located in the island of Shinsenkyo, located in the southwest of the Ryukyu kingdom. The problem is that the Shogunate has already sent, apparently, five expedition teams to that place, and. None of them have return, so this time, they are sending a new team consisted on death row criminals, and if any of them can get the Elixir of Life, they can obtain an official pardon, but if any escapes, that person will be slain in a executioner of the Asagiri clan.

Inspired by the love of his wife, Yui, and the chance of a normal life, Gabimaru accepts, always under the watch of Yamada.

Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku started publication on January 22, 2018, and ended on January 25, 2021, completing thirteen volumes and 127 chapters, furthermore, Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku was published by Shueisha. One fun fact is that Yuji Kaku was a collaborator of Tatsuki Fujimoto.

Studio MAPPA started broadcasting Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku from April 1, having a total of eight episodes, for a total of, I assume… 12 or 13 episodes. But still, this time is okay, the series is so good that there is a big chance of having a second season, just like Chainsaw Man. I just hope it is soon.

I am talking of both.

Finally, Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku has a pretty nice opening song – “Work” performed by Ringo Sheena and Millenium Paradise, I will be happy to put the link here for you to listen.

STORY

Now. I have just watched the first two episodes of Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku, and also, some clips of the anime, especially some featured Yuzuhira, and I got to say that I am being hooked by the premise. A couple of months ago, I was reading about this series, here and there, and it got my attention, almost as much as Oshi No Ko and its sticky “Idol” performed by Yoasobi. And when I say the animation, I really wanted to watch Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku.

I thought Gabimaru will be some kind of villain protagonist. But I will talk about him later.

But nope. The story is very similar to Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man in terms of tone, dark fantasy but with some humour that does not overstay its welcome. What do I mean by this? Simple. That is put on the right moments, without ruining the moments of dark atmosphere and tension. Moreover, the story is fun, it has a lot of action, some violence and gore, but with genuinely heart warming moments, most of them brought by Gabimaru and Yui. Also, the first two episodes done a pretty good job by slowing showing Gabimaru as not as hollow as his title points out, and that is something I value in a story – some time for poignant scenes, as well as some humour, it actually helps to sympathise more with our characters, especially both Gabimaru and Sagiri.

Nonetheless, I must admit that sometimes the story can be a bit slow. But one thing is for a story to be slow, and another is to be boring, and Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku is anything but boring.

Also, the animation is beautiful, the aesthetics, color palettes and character designs seems to take inspiration from Ninja Scroll, Tenchu and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. I like the animation Unfortunately, despite being wonderful, it is not on the same quality of Demon Slayer or Chainsaw Man. If something, it surpasses the animation of both Vinland Saga and Jujutsu Kaisen. I admit this might be a very unpopular opinion, but that is what I think.

However, once our protagonists arrive to Shinsenkyo… My goodness!! It looks beautiful, the background looks like a painting. A very colourful world that, due to the story’s dark tone, really makes you feel like you are in a hollow Garden of Eden… Kind of.

As Bart points out…

‘Sweet in the outside, poison in the inside”

Finally, I think that the music is nice, especially the opening song. I will take my time to listen to more songs, later on.

I am still have to watch a lot of episodes from Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku. But I am having a lot of fun, and I think it is one of the best anime of spring/autumn of 2023.

CHARACTERS

I think one of the elements from Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku that surprised me the most is the characters, especially Gabimaru. Of course, we all know that he is not as hollow as he claims, but he has a lot of features, such as his relationship with his wife Yui.

Honestly, I was very happy to watch at them, I am rooting for Gabimaru, even though I read the ending of the manga… for good or bad. Also….

Was I the only one who though in Tomura Shigaraki every time I look at Gabimaru?

I spoke too soon.

Secondly, I also loved Sagiri, because beneath that cold, calm and collected persona, you see a person full of fear and regret due to her occupation. I thought I couldn’t show a image of her and her fear, but they are not as… revealing as I thought. So here it is.

This image perfectly represents her fear in the best way possible.

Finally, one more character I want to mention is Yuzuriha. My goodness! She is hilarious! She is a deadly assassin, and a… femme fatale, but she has a lot of charm with her expressions and her personality you really liked her, probably more than Sagiri.

Just look at her…

I have no comments

Man… Please come and kill me! Yuzuriha!!! Or at least Sagiri, nor Gabimaru.

And finally, I want to make a honorable mention Mei, which is… adorable, but has the power of  creating Groots.

But seriously, I liked the characters, but Gabimaru, Sagiri, Yuzuriha and Mei are my favourites.

CONCLUSION

I am enjoying Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku, the characters, the action, the setting, the conflict. Everything is so cool so far, probably not as engaging as Chainsaw Man, or as immersive as Jujustu Kaisen, but if you liked the productions of MAPPA, I know I do…

…you will enjoy this as well.

 I will be watching more episodes later on, and trust me, I am coming back with a lot of reviews of pretty good anime. I don’t know if I publish another review tomorrow, but I will try… I promise.

Until then, I will look for Yuzuriha to kill me…

Oh! I am already dead! Am I in Paradise?

Well… could be worse.

Ok… Now this is Hell.

JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS – THE EMINENCE IN SHADOW – MY FIRST IMPRESSIONS (FIVE YEARS ANNIVERSARY)

The Eminence in Shadow

Genre: Dark Fantasy, Isekai, Mystery

Studio: Nexus

Hello my friends. Welcome to another entry of my blog.

Here is a very special occasion, because it is the fifth anniversary of my blog.

(picture of the occasion)

And I want to thank all of you my fans and my readers, because it is you who actually motivate me to continue with this work that I am doing. It is you who made possible for my blog to stay alive. I do not have enough words of thanks to all of you, but to every single person that reads me has a special place in my heart.

Also, I want to apologize with you for not posting anything in my blog for almost a month. As you know, Work has taken a lot of my time, and I recently finished a course of Transcendental Meditation, which has improved my life, I definitely recommend it to all of you. But, shortly after finishing the course, my body started feeling very heavy. I never thought my arms and legs would be so at me for not giving them enough rest.

Anyway. After so many weeks, I was able to prepare a new anime that I watched some days ago… started to watch some time ago.

And that is…

The Eminence in Shadow.

But before I start with my words, I must ask you the typical question:

Are you guys ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes, then I am happy.

So… Now is it time to leave the shadows and seek the light. This is The Eminence in Shadow.

PREMISE

The Eminence in Shadow, or Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute! (陰の実力者になりたくて!) is based on the series of light novels written by Daisuke Aizawa and illustrated by Tozai. The Eminence in Shadow tells the story of a young man in Japan who is very obsessed of exerting the power under the shadows, which technically means to defeat villains, manipulate the events of daily lives, and leave an everlasting impression to the people without revealing his identity and always operating under the curtains, and that is why he trained in martial arts, in many disciplines, and science. But one day, on one of his secret trainings, he gets hit by a truck and dies. And as a normal isekai, he gets reincarnated in another world, as Cid Kagenou, the son of a noble family. In this new world, he becomes a master in dark magic and secrecy, founding an organization called Shadow Garden, which he uses to fight the evil Cult of Diabolos that controls the world.

Except for one detail – everything is a lie. There is no Cult of Diabolos. Cid is merely role-playing and having chuunibyou tendencies. In fact, in both his former life and new life, is to become an NPC character that is mostly mediocre and underwhelming. Nonetheless, turns out that Diabolos actually exists. Now, Cid is hooked in a secret war under his alias Shadow and his constant “role-play”.

The Eminence in Shadow started publication on November 5, 2017, and as of February 28, 2023, it has five volumes, under Kadokawa Shoten for Japan, and Yen Press for English. Also, recently Studio Nexus released a 20-episode anime, which broadcasted between October 5, 2022, and February 15, 2023, with a second season recently announced.

Finally, The Eminence in Shadow features a very ensemble cast, including Seiichiro Yamashita, Kana Hanazawa, and Rina Hidaka.

STORY

Before I start with my opinions regarding the story, I must clarify that I watched the famous Gigguk video analysing The Eminence in Shadow. Here is the link because I find the video pretty worthy.

But seriously, I will suggest all of you to be ready to a very unpopular opinion of my own. First and foremost, I want to talk about the good elements. First one is the animation. Personally, I loved the animation and the colour scheme, which really brings the tone of what The Eminence in Shadow tries to be, a mixture between dark fantasy, mystery, isekai and school life, at least from the first episodes. Of course, the animation of Chainsaw Man and Blue Lock! is way superior, but I will say it is pretty well done.

Furthermore, the backstory of our main character is… pretty decent, and how he founded Shadow Garden is well-written, although sometimes can be a bit slow. Finally, the character design is also enjoyable, especially in the members of Shadow Garden. Those are the elements that I mostly enjoyed from The Eminence in Shadow.

Now it is time to the “bad stuff.”

Just like I enjoyed the backstory of both Cid Kagenou and Shadow Garden, I also found the conflict and setting of the Cult of Diabolos pretty laughable, impossible to take it seriously, because Cid Kagenou made that up, and then turns out that Diabolos exists, with every element that Cid Kagenou mentioned about it, without even having any previous, clear evidence of his words. And I thought:

Really? Now Cid is saying the truth like that out of nowhere?

I found it pretty convenient and rushed. Like there is goddess…

…listened to his words and wanted to shaped reality according to his delusions.

Also… Was that “lie” even necessary? Why he just finds out about Diabolos later on and say something else? Furthermore… Why doesn’t Cid just say he wants to be a vigilante? Or just fight for the thrill of adventure? Something like that.

I don’t know. For me, that was weak.

Another problem that I got is that from one episode to another is that Shadow Garden disappears from Cid. And yes, I know they eventually get back to him, but I wish I could see more about their fight, or shall I say “game”. Or more depth on the relationship between Seven Shades and their master, so I will not feel that Cid was being a jerk. But that sudden departure of Shadow Garden left me unfulfilled, like something was missing. And I think it was the delusions of Cid. I felt that he was being immature and childish, and from there, I found almost impossible to take the story seriously.

Finally, the transition between the plot of “Shadow” and Cid assisting to academy made me feel like I suddenly was watching another anime. Out of nowhere. And that jeopardised my experience with The Eminence in Shadow.

I know it is hard to explain, but that was my impression.  And believe me, I still have a lot to say about Cid Kagenou, or “Shadow”.

Bizarrely enough, I also enjoyed the nature of the story as well. As if I said to myself.

If Cid Kagenou does not seem to take myself seriously. Why should I?

What I am trying to say is that the corniness that The Eminence in Shadow, far from forcing me to leave this anime, it encouraged me to stay, like some kind of guilty pleasure.

Anyway. The Eminence in Shadow does not have the best story, but at least is pretty fun.

CHARACTERS

 Now. I have the same issue with the characters. Because the members of Shadow Garden, especially the seven shadows, are pretty interesting, having definite personalities, powers and backstory. Not the best, but memorable enough.

I think my favourites are Alpha, for her beauty and power; Beta, for her charm and design, Delta because… Animal ears and strength, and Epsilon because of how badass she is. Also, Alexia and her sister are very good characters, but I prefer the latter because of her personality. I am not saying I hate Alexia, but she is not just my type.

And finally… we got Cid.

Despite being the MC, it is absolutely IMPOSSIBLE to take him seriously, because he lives in another world, but doesn’t have the charisma of Megumin. His delusions and obsession to be in the secrecy is what make me get tired of him.

Also… The way he dies… (Don’t think is a spoilers, because it was for sure something like that happened to him)… is so stupid!! He gets obsessed with power, more than Palpatine.

And then he LITERALLY throws himself to a truck. Seriously. This guy makes Kazuma’s death as heroic.

CONCLUSION

Overall, The Eminence in Shadow is a must-see if you are a fan of isekai. Nonetheless, I will be a bit concerned if you are a die-hard fan of Re:Zero, The Rising of the Shield Hero, Youjo Senki and Overlord, because sometimes you will feel like The Eminence in Shadow is a parody, and not a good one, so you might not like it.

But that’s only my opinion.

And again… thank you so much guys for these wonderful five years. I hope I can stay with you for another five years.

Keep the spirit of Anime alive… See you soon!

JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS – SPY CLASSROOM – SPY KYOSHITSU – MY FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Spy Classroom (Spy Kyoshitsu)

Genre: Adventure, Spy

Studio: Feel

Hello, my friends. Welcome to another entry of my blog

First and foremost,…

Happy New Year!!

It has been a long time since we started this wonderful year now, and just like many of you, I have been in holidays for a while, and I posted some pictures of my travels at Ballarat and Canberra at the beginning of the present month. Ane yes! I ahad a good time, and I am prepared for celebrating the Chinese New Year pretty soon near to my house.

But now it is time to get back to work, writing entries in my blog and analysing a lot of anime. And I have watched a couple of pretty nice anime that I really enjoyed. And I am prepared to write about them.

One is Blue Lock, and the other one…

…Is Spy Kyoshitsu, or Spy Classroom.

And I will write quickly about this little series, and about from what I have watched so far.

But before I start, I must ask you the typical question:

Are you guys ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes, then I am happy.

But now, time to go to the mission, here is Spy Classroom, or Spy Kyoshitsu

PREMISE

Based on the series of light novels written by Takemichi, and illustrated by Tomari, Spy Kyoshitsu takes place in a world that recently recovered from a very devastating war, and despite the fact that there is peace everywhere, there is another type of war that is being fought – a cold war. Or if prefer, a spy war. In the words of the story, the war in the light has ended, but there is a war of darkness, a war of information and trickery. In this war, there is a very fantastic team, called Inferno, specializing in “Impossible Missions. But all the members of Inferno has been killed, except for one sole member – Klaus – Now, it is up to Klaus to create another spy team, called Lamplight, that focuses in missions in which the death rate is 90%, and this team is made up of seven high school girls with different abilities and backgrounds. But there is a problem, all of these girls are the worst students of their respective academies.

Will Klaus succeed in this new mission?

Spy Kyoshitsu started publication in Fujimi Shobo on January, 2020, and as of January 24, 2023 (three years later.), Spy Classroom has nine volumes, and another three books of short stories of this story. And Yen Press has been printed all of the volumes in English.

Also, it has released three episodes under the supervision of Studio Feel (My teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU, Outbreak Company).

Some of the voice cast of Spy Kyoshitsu includes recognized talent such as Yuichiro Umehara (Goblin Slayer, Darling in the FRANXX), Sora Asamiya (Konosuba, Call of the night), Aoi Yuki (Youjo Senki, One Punch Man).

Finally, according to Myanimelist, Spy Kyoshitsu is going to have 12 episodes, Hopefully I am mistaken, because I am loving this show.

STORY

Now, I know what many of you are thinking, that it is very going hard to compare Spy Kyoshitsu with our all-time favourite anime.

But don’t worry, I am aware that these two are very different series, and I will treat them as such. Having said that, let’s continue.

Now, for those who previously read my review of Princess Principal, I think they remember that my main “complain” with that particular anime was the fact is that was not based either in a manga or a light novel, because of the amazing potential and meaning for Princess Principal should was based on another source. By the way, I am going to leave the link of my review of Princess Principal here for those interested.

JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS – Princess Principal – My Own Impressions

And now, some months later, I meet Spy Kyoshitsu, I feel like someone was answering my whim. Because this is exactly how I was imagining Princess Principal coming from light novels – a nice background, beautiful artwork, enjoyable adventure, and the most important thing… the great feeling that all of this excitement will be there for me after an anime adaptation.

Yeah. Not a big difference, but I mentioned it.

Anyway, I want to talk about one of my favourite elements – the art.

I got to say that I was surprised of the artwork. For a series that takes place in a very “dystopic” world that has spies, this artwork is amazing. It kind of maintains a balance between the beauty and the grim, similar to Call of the Night, another series that I will discuss very soon. Honestly, there is no way I can pass out this, that single frame of one of the main characters, Lily, is beautiful.

Another element that complements the art pretty well is the animation, at least in my opinion. Many of the stills are well-connected, and there is a pretty solid flow in action scenes; despite not being too inventive, of as immersive like in Chainsaw Man, they are in quality of Ranking of Kings. And the story keeps a nice tension, although it can be predictable, that means… you know that very few of the main characters will die, but that does not mean the episodes do not get you with a surprise.

Because that is another point – the tone is still dark; people is still going to die, and do not expect any shyness with violence. It is not very graphic, but it is still imposing enough. It is the opposite of Spy x Family, while the former is light-hearted and family-friendly, Spy Kyoshitsu can be a bit disturbing at times.

Also, the rhythm is… enjoyable. I got to admit that it can be pretty slow, but with the necessary dose of character development and storytelling expected in a light novel series like this. In other words, you understand what is going on, assimilate the conflict and enjoy the events as the story progresses.

However, under no circumstances, do not expect Spy Kyoshitsu to be very similar to Spy x Family. No! Spy x Family is about a spy, an assassin and a telepath being a family, being that the main story with some side stories involving their jobs with huge amounts of comedy, while Spy Kyoshitsu is about girls trying to be spies, in a war that can destroy the world, not just Westalis and Ostania.

Still, if you like Spy x Family, try to give a taste of Spy Kyoshitsu. I cannot promise you will like it as much, but you will not get bored.

CHARACTERS

Indeed, one of the best elements of Spy Kyoshitsu is their characters. Klaus, being the stoic, yet caring founder and mentor of Lamplight. Lily, code Flower Garden, is the kind leader and expert in poisons; Sybylla, code Pandemonium, is the athlete of the group and the strongest member; Grete, code Dearest Daughter, is expert in disguises, being as great as Loid Forger; Monika, code Glint, is expert in fighting and stealth; Thea, code Dreamspeaker, specializes in persuasion; Sara, code, Meadow, is the expert in information; and Annette, code Forgetter, is the engineer of the group.

From the very first moment, you know all the identities of each member, and the story emphasizes the scope of the ability of each member. And their character design is pretty awesome.

As a matter of fact, I thought Lily and Sybylla were relatives.

My only issue is that, at least on the first three episodes, the ones who has more time of developments are Klaus and Lily. That’s something great because they are main characters. But what about the rest? Yes, it is already established all of the members of Lamplight, but I wish the episodes will emphasize a bit more in the rest of Lamplight, not just some mere minutes.

Still, there are pretty good characters, and indeed the best element of Spy Kyoshitsu.

And there are a couple of surprises regarding the characters in the first three episodes. Of course, I will not reveal, because it is a spoiler, and I do not want to be a bad spy.

But sure, you will enjoy as much as I did.

CONCLUSION

Spy Kyoshitsu is better than I thought. And yes, I am well aware that many fans will still stay woth Spy x Family, but if you are one of those fans, take your time and watch Spy Kyoshitsu. It has everything you will enjoy – Loveable characters, solid background, nice animation, better character design, and sweet action.

Take my word, you will not regret it.

And now… I must flee.

My enemies are behind me, and I must accomplish my mission, otherwise, it is the end of the world… my world.

And that mission is…

To find out…

Which will be my votes for Crunchyroll Anime Awards?

Wish me luck… Perhaps I am not coming back alive, my heart can’t take all that excitement.

Perez… Jaime Perez.

Over and out.

JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS – TRIGUN – MY OWN IMPRESSIONS – ONE OF THE BEST WESTERN ANIME IN HISTORY

Trigun

Studio Madhouse

Genre: Space Western, Comedy, Drama

Hello my friends, Welcome to another entry of my blog.

First and foremost,… Congratulations Argentina – FIFA World Champion 2022.

They indeed deserve their victory, and our Argentine brothers really need this historical moment. Thank you so much for this, guys, thanks a lot for that… Messi

I feel so happy, to the point that I want to extend this happiness to all of you my friends, talking about one of my favourite anime, and for those who read my review of Outlaw Star, I think we all know which one am I talking about.

I mean… Trigun.

But before I start, I must ask you my friends the typical question:

Are you guys ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes then I am happy. And if you wanted for Argentina to become champions in Qatar, then I am euphoric.

Now, wish me good luck to get the 60 billion double-dollar man in Trigun.

TRIGUN

Based on the manga written and illustrated by Yasuhiro Nightow, creator of Gungrave and Blood Blockade Battlefront, Trigun gets us to the planet Gunsmoke, a place completely full of desert and a relentless sun every day, and cold nights. In this planet, there is a living legend, about a man who causes death, destruction, and madness wherever he goes, no one is safe, not the women, not the children, not the elderly, no one. Everything that crosses in his path… apparently dies.

That man is called… Vash the Stampede.

There is a reward of 60 billion double-dollar for his head. Furthermore, he is also called… The Humanoid Typhoon. Rumours and stories like these has been displacing and spreading around the planet Gunsmoke, which is why the Bernardelli Insurance Society sends two of its employees, Meryl Stryfe and Milly Thompson, to look after the damage supposedly caused by Vash the Stampede. Once they meet him, they both realise that Vash the Stampede is not what he looks like, because despite his reputation and superhuman abilities, he often displays a goofy attitude and a pacifist perspective toward life, refusing to kill his enemies.

Now, Vash, Meryl and Milly go around many locations of the planet Gunsmoke, meeting new people and discover the truth beneath the reputation of Vash the Stampede and an accident, in which a city was destroyed because of Vash, many years ago.

Yasuhiro Nightow started publishing Trigun from April 1995, first through Tokuma Shoten, until January 1997. But then, Nightow continued its publication in the Shonen Gahosha magazine, under the title of Trigun Maximum, from October 1997 to March 2007, bringing it a total of almost 19 volumes, with both magazines. Due to the success and popularity of the manga, Studio Madhouse produced a total of 26 episodes, which were broadcasted between April 1 to September 30, 1998.

Again… 1998. The year of the two beautiful Space Western anime that I love and cherish.

Outlaw Star & Cowboy Bebop

Moreover, the anime was written by Yosuke Kuroda, known for Excel Saga, Jormungand, Gungrave, and a personal favourite…

Sword Art Online: Alternative Gun Gale Online.

In addition, Trigun was produced by Shigeru Kitayama (Noir, Trigun: Badlands), and its perfect score was composed by Tsuneo Imahori (Wolf’s Rain), the latter being a member of The Seatbelts, the same band as Yoko Kanno, from… We all know.

With these fantastic, talented artists in charge… What can possibly go wrong?

For my viewpoint… Freaking nothing!!

STORY

Ok! Where to start?

Trigun is a fantastic mixture of drama, comedy, adventure, and the spirit of the Old West I almost grew up during the childhood, brought by the spaghetti westerns created by Sergio Leone…. Almost. Before I continue let me share with you a little anecdote.

It was 2006, and I was watching Cartoon Network – Latin America of course, and I remember finishing an episode of that anime, whose animation remember me a lot of Rurouni Kenshin, called Sakura Wars – I was knocked, and I enjoyed in a way, but then, shortly afterwards, I watched one anime that… reminded me of a very hilarious AMV, I think I got the link here…

Yes!!!

I really love that video.

Okay. On that time, I already got the spirit of Cowboy Bebop so ingrained that I thought perhaps nothing will ever surpass it, until I watched Samurai Champloo, but that’s another story, for another moment. I also watched this anime called… Trigun, I was 100% curious about who that blonde guy was? He looked like a nice guy, and then… Wow!!! He was extremely different from Spike, Jet, Faye, Ein and Ed – Goofy, clumsy, and extremely idiotic… And I love him. He was so full of energy and passion, I wanted to see more. Something different from the gloominess and existentialism of Cowboy Bebop. It was wonderful.

From there, I binge every episode of Trigun. Until the middle of the series, where the darker, most serious episodes take place, the part in which we know more about Vash the Stampede, and why he became so infamous. Those episodes almost shred me to tears, because again… I thought things will not end up well. Yet, I stayed until the end, despite the fear of being as depressed as I was with Cowboy Bebop. Those who watched the latter, will definitely know why?

Luckily, there is some happiness… some fantastic lessons almost at the end. And that was enough for me to consider Trigun, along with its animation, storytelling, and characters, one of the greatest anime of history, and one of the few that can actually… REALLY ACTUALLY… be as amazing as Cowboy Bebop, along with Outlaw Star.

That feeling of adventure, of uncertainty, of calm before the storm, of the relentless atmosphere of the cowboys, and at the same time, that beauty, that folklore, that sci-fi world that gets you for its thoughtfulness and vastness – all of these elements that make the world of Cowboy Bebop so immersive are indeed present in Trigun, but the latter does not copy the former. No. It gets better and more powerful despite being a little being simpler than with Cowboy Bebop or Outlaw Star. Yet, I am not making justice to this great feeling that I felt with the animation, the atmosphere, and the beauty of Trigun. In fact, I think it is something that you must experience by yourself, because trust me…

Very few western anime are able to get this sensations in a perfect fashion. I don’t think you will find something more intense, yet fascinating, and that is why I cherish Trigun the way I do.

Also, I must confess that I enjoy Trigun a little bit more than Cowboy Bebop, for a simple reason – Hope. It teaches you the meaning of hope; with every episode, you know there is hope, with every action of Vash, Meryl and Milly, there is a lesson to be learn, and also… comedy to enjoy.

For me, every episode is better than the previous one. Man!! This is not just an entry, it is a love letter to Trigun. I love westerns, the more action-packed, the better; the more creative, the better, and definitely Trigun is one of my most beloved ones.

Also, for me, the original score of Trigun is as memorable as the one of Cowboy Bebop. Why am I surprised? After all, their composers were in The Seatbelts. And the ending… Wow!!! Simply wow!!!

Anyway, I can keep talking and talking about how great Trigun is. First with some good comedy and adventure in the beginning, and then with thoughtful drama and tension, with the great balance and beauty as Cowboy Bebop and Outlaw Star.

Apologies for the constant comparisons, but I can’t avoid it. Just remember, watch Trigun and believe it.

CHARACTERS

Like I said, all the characters are great. Vash the Stampede is like Kenshin Himura, a laid-back, kind, friendly main character that hides great abilities and a very force to be reckoned with. Kenshin is always one of my favourite characters, and now Vash can compete with him in every aspect.

But… his design is incredible, and I apologise for those who are expecting Trigun Maximum in 2023, but…

This new design does not convince a lot.

Meryl is an excellent female counterpart for Vash, and even though Milly acts as a klutz, she is actually a very profound character, in fact, Milly is definitely the voice of reason for both Vash and Meryl. I have to admit that, aside from Vash, Milly was always my favourite character because the way she is, sometimes when she does something that we could consider stupid, then we see a moment of brilliance and poignancy. It is just wonderful.

And Millions Knives himself.

With that smile, he is definitely a charismatic, scary guy. Trust me, every time I saw Knives, Legato, or any of the Gung-ho Guns… Terrifying.

But…. The best is definitely Nicholas D. Wolfwood, the priest with the great gun, who is a very effective foil for Vash, at least in my personal opinion. Cool, wise, compassionate, but, at the same time, complex. I love him.

Someone said that a hero is as good as his/her villains, well… I say… for Trigun, a male protagonist is as good as its foil, and that is Nicholas D. Wolfwood.

CONCLUSION

There you go… My honest, everlasting thoughts about Trigun. One of the most perfect, sweet, cool, entertaining, wonderful, enjoyable, and well-balanced masterpieces of anime of all time.

Nothing else to say.

I know this conclusion is really short, but I hope it’s enough to share the honesty for the masterpiece that is Trigun.

Till next time…

See you again, Space Cowboy.

JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS – OUTLAW STAR – MY OWN IMPRESSIONS AND OPPORTUNITY TO FEEL A GREAT ADVENTURE

Outlaw Star

1998

Genre: Space Opera, Space Western

Studio: Sunrise

Hello my space cowboys, welcome to another entry of the blog.

I decided to take a little break from my continuous reviews of the episodes of Chainsaw Man, don’t worry, I am still working on My First Impressions on the last ones, and they will appear eventually. However, I was invited to watch a series that, for some reason, I skipped from time to time. And again, the title says it all. It will be just matter of seconds before I decided that, unless I write a little entry of this anime, I will not be in peace, because it is a already fantastic one, and since I have always been a great fan of both Trigun and Cowboy Bebop (and pretty much most of the work of Yasuhiro Nightow), this is a perfect opportunity to write down about this little gem.

Having said that, I bring you…

OUTLAW STAR

But before I start, I must ask you the typical Question.

Are you guys ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes, then I am happy. Now, let’s go back with the space cowboys with Outlaw Star.

PREMISE

Outlaw Star is based in the manga written by Takehiko Ito and published by Shueisha from September 20, 1996, to May 20, 1999, and tells the story of Gene Starwind and his business partner, a 11-year-old boy called Jim Hawking, that manage a business that take all kinds of jobs. One day, they receive a job that involves protecting a woman, who later turns out to be “Hot Ice” Hilda, an outlaw who is being chased by the Kei Pirates, a part of the TinPa Empire, and that is after a case that contains a bio-android called Melfina, the only being in the universe that can contact with a spaceship that can travel faster than the speed of light in a matter of minutes. Now, after some skirmishes with other outlaws and members of the Kei Pirates, Gen, Jim and Hilda find Melfina, and eventually they found the ship. However, after a fight with the pirates, Hilda sacrifices herself to allow Gene, Jim and Melfina to escape with the ship.

Finally, Gene names the ship “Outlaw Star” in the memory of Hilda, embarking all in an adventure to discover Melfina’s purpose and past.

But for all this story to make sense, I must talk about the background. Turns out that, some time ago, a new element was discovered by humanity, called Dragonite, which allow it to develop technology to travel through space and build colonies all over the universe. You know, the typical story of space and science. The problem is that this dragonite energy also attracted the attention of the wrong people, including pirates, outlaws, and assassins. And despite Earth created many empires to counterattack these threats, including the already-mentioned TinPa Empire, internal disputes made things worse. Now practically Earth and Space are in a constant state of war.

As you already read, Outlaw Star has an incredibly vast background inside its simple story. Furthermore, Outlaw Star was produced in 1998, by Sunrise.

Do you know which space western anime was released that year by the same studio? That’s right!!!

The always classical Cowboy Bebop.

Outlaw Star was released in a total of 26 episodes, same as Cowboy Bebop, from January 8 to June 25, 1998, on TVTokyo, while its English dub was released on Cartoon Network in 2001, with very notorious censorship on its episodes, including some scenes of Melfina naked.

Finally, Outlaw Star has one of the best opening themes I have ever heard – “Through the Night”, performed by Masahiko Arimachi. Also, I listened to both the TV Version and the whole version of Through the Night, and both are simply beautiful.

Well… It’s the same freaking song.

To be point that I enjoyed as much as the intro of both Trigun and Cowboy Bebop.

You can find the links for both versions here.

STORY

Ok. I must confess that I already heard of Outlaw Star months ago, but for some reason I constantly skipped it. And now that I am watching it, thanks to the Deakin Anime Club… I feel kind of furious, because so far, I am enjoying it, and I watched a lot of good anime in 1998, including Trigun, Cowboy Bebop and Magic Knight Rayearth, although this once was released in 1994.

And I wonder… Why? Why the hell I spent many months skipping Outlaw Star? I got the same issue with Berserk (the original… The good one! Not the crappy version of 2016)

I was full of regret, but then, after some meditation, I also remember all the good anime I grew up with, including Fullmetal Alchemist and Saint Seiya, so yeah… I wasn’t too bad to miss for a while Outlaw Star. No regrets, especially now.

The point is that I am enjoying this series more than I expected, especially for an anime produced in 1998. Every time, Studio Sunrise knows how to surprise me, especially with Cowboy Bebop and Mobile Suit Gundam Wing. Outlaw Star has an animation that has aged really well, every second you fell that incredible feeling of being in space and travelling in colonies, and with the action scenes, they are really exciting, to the point of being as good as with Cowboy Bebop. The movements, the tension, the atmosphere, all of these elements really strong in an animation that knows how to take advantage of its colours and power.

And let’s now mentioned the beautiful, well-done backgrounds. Again, as fantastic as with Trigun and Cowboy Bebop.

For me, many space anime have already hooked me with their very… spacepunk setting. But with Outlaw Star I feel something more unique, allowing me to enjoy it more.

Furthermore, the story has a really good pacing – we come to learn a lot of our characters. Their past experiences with whole development, their new adventures, in which they learn a lot about each other, and the feeling of friendship. Little by little you come to love the characters and root for them, and, in many cases, despises most of their antagonists. Also, the comedy is pretty enjoyable, mostly from Gene and Jim. These two create an amazing duo, with Gene being the sleazy hero, and Jim being the voice of reason. Man! Every time Gene acts stupid, Jim puts him in his place, and yes… I might be old-school comedy, but the characters and the setting are so great you find it hilarious enough.

Perhaps… My only complain about the comedy is that sometimes Aisha can be a bit annoying, but, for the most part, she is hysterical.

Anyway – both the backstory, the action and the rhythm make for a very enjoyable anime. Trust me, if you love Trigun, Cowboy Bebop, or both, you will have a wonderful time with Outlaw Star.

CHARACTERS

Just like I said before, Outlaw Star has a lot of great characters, Gene, Jim, Melfina, Suzuka, and Aisha. All of them have their own personalities and moments of shining. Here is a really funny fact.

Gene is named after Gene Roddenbery, the creator of Star Trek, and a more… obvious one. Jim is named after Jim Hawkins, the main protagonist of Treasure Island, one of my favourite childhood stories, that also inspire another awesome movie from 2002.

Treasure Planet.

Melfina is beautiful and gorgeous, Suzuka has everything you are looking for in a samurai, and Aisha… well, you have to see her to create your opinion. And also… one useless trivia. When I first saw Melfina, I swear I thought she looked like Ameria, from Slayers.

I do not why did I think that.

And also, the Kei Pirates are so fearsome and powerful you really come to hate them for their intentions or loving them for how dangerous and badass they are, just like our protagonist Gene.

Yeah. Great story, great characters.

CONCLUSION

It is no wonder why Outlaw Star has become so popular throughout the years. It is fun, it is poignant, it is original, it brings some new fresh air to the space western anime, and I will never stop repeating this. I have enjoyed it as much as now I enjoy Trigun and Cowboy Bebop.

I am still watching the whole series, and I will do eventually, but I repeat, if you loved these two wonderful masterpieces, you will love Outlaw Star.

Now, time for me to leave, Chainsaw Man awaits, but, like some said before…

See you Space Cowboy.

Till next time.

JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS EN ESPAÑOL – CHAINSAW MAN – EPISODIO 4 – CÓMO SE SENTÍ CON EL EPISODIO

Chainsaw Man

Episodio IV

Hola mis amigos, bienvenidos a otra entrada de mi Blog.

Aquí les traigo mi opinión sobre este nuevo capítulo, de esta fantástica serie que todos conocemos como Chainsaw Man. De antemano, me disculpo por haber estado inactivo estos días, pero me han pasado varias cosas que al final terminaron por quitarme mucho tiempo.

Pero ahora que tengo un poco más de días libres, ahora puedo recuperarme un poco y empezar a redactar mis pensamientos sobre el Episodio 4 de Chainsaw Man.

Pero antes de continuar, debo hacerles la típica pregunta

¿Se encuentran bien? ¿Saludables?

Si la respuesta es sí, entonces yo soy feliz.

Y ahora, vamos a jugar con las motosierras con Chainsaw Man.

A propósito, pronto sacaré mis pensamientos sobre el Episodio III, pero primero estoy haciendo los del Episodio IV mientras tengo la memoria fresca, por eso, para los que quieran esperar, recomiendo esperar que tenga mi revisión del Episodio III, y ahora, tras tanta palabrería, vamos con el Episodio IV.

EPISODIO IV

Una vez más, el Episodio nos deleita con un flashback de Power antes de unirse a la Seguridad Pública, mientras mataba a diestra y siniestra todo animal vivo que se cruzaba en su camino, todo esperando pacientemente a que Nyakko (O Meowy), crezca y se lo pueda comer, en una escena que, al más claro estilo del manga, es violenta y a la vez conmovedera. Y todo aquello cambia cuando el Demonio de los Murciélagos le ordena a Power traer un humano para comérselo.

Todo ello hace que Power se cuestiona cuál es el propósito de lo que está haciendo, lo que le lleva a aprender que la sangre es muy tibia. Así lo dice ella. Y esto me ayudó a empatizar mejor con Power pese a todas las cosas que hizo en el anterior episodio; son escenas, en mi opinión cortas, pero que realmente captan la esencia de la obra de Tatsuki Fujimoto.

De ahí saltamos al momento presente, poco después de que Denji derrotase al Demonio de los Murciélagos y rescatase tanto a Power como a Nyakko. Y cuando ésta le pregunta por qué lo hizo, Denji, a través de un sutil, pero magnífico lenguaje corporal, nos dice sus motivos. Aunque a Power le parece una estupidez, ella acepta que le manosee los senos.

¡Pero no festejes tanto Denji! Porque luego vendrá el Demonio de las Sanguijuelas para arrancarte la mano derecha.

El Demonio está super furioso porque Denji mató a su pareja, aun así, está dispuesta a dejarlo ir, pero matará tanto a Power como a Nyakko, cosa que no hace ni pizca de gracia a Denji. ¡Así se hace, mi amigo! ¡Los pechos son sagrados! ¡Arriba la Virgen de la Pechonalidad! Con eso, Denji pelea con el Demonio, pero como perdió mucha sangre, no puede transformarse en Chainsaw Man; mientras tanto, los dos se comparten sus sueños, Denji queriendo tocar pechos y el Demonio de las Sanguijuelas devorar a la humanidad. Ésta llamada al sueño de Denji una mierda. Poco después, Denji recuerda a los que criticaron sus motivaciones, Power, Aki, y ahora un demonio de poca monta. Y si he de ser honesto, me sentí muy mal por Denji, porque, al final, sólo es un chico que nació y creció en condiciones de porquería, por ponerlo de forma suave, algo que ni siquiera fue su culpa, y ahora desea tener todo aquello que se la negado… Más o menos. Por lo que básicamente dice: “A la mi*rda, verás que mi sueño es mejor que el tuyo.”

Y una vez más, la animación destaca por ser una maravillosa. Mis respetos a MAPPA, superando con creces a Jujutsu Kaisen y a Attack on Titan: The Final Season. A la vez, es verdad que Denji pone una formidable pelea, pero no le basta contra el Demonio de las Sanguijuelas, quien está por matarlo.

Luego llega ese momento que sólo se puede describir como épico. Sólo bastó una palabra.

KON.

Llega Aki para convocar al Demonio de los Zorros, el cual decapita de forma exquisita al de las Sanguijuelas.

Poco después, llega el escuadrón de Aki, Kobeni, Himeno e Hirokazu, que deben proteger a los civiles y evaluar los daños.

Luego Aki se lleva a Denji, Power y Nyakko, terminando así la batalla.

Tiempo después, nos enteramos de que Aki tiene un contrato con el Demonio de los Zorros, porque es lo que hacen los Devil Hunters – usan a los Demonios para luchar contra ellos. Aki también dice que por sus actos, tanto Denji como Power podrían ser ejecutados, pero no hubo víctimas, así que los perdona, pero obligando a Denji a reconocerlo como su superior.

También vemos esa bonita escena en donde las personas que Denji salvó le quieren dar las gracias… Casi todos.

Y de nuevo el Episodio nos deleita con esa hermosa escena de Himeno, que, si he de ser honesto, esperaba verla con ahínco. ¡Hermosa! ¡En verdad! Pero créanme que, con ella, lo mejor está por venir.

Por cierto… ¡Vaya expresión tan jocosa de Power en esta escena! Pero bueno… lo mejor está por venir.

Ahora, tras el reporte de Aki para Makima, y una hermosa presentación de Tokyo, según Chainsaw Man, vemos la rutina mañanera de Aki, e insisto…

¡Qué hermoso se ve aquí con el pelo suelto! Ya está en mi lista de los husbando del 2022. Y a pesar de que siguen cayéndose mal, Denji y Aki parecen acostumbrarse uno al otro.

Pero luego…

Llega la prima de Zero Two para mudarse con ellos. ¡Perfecto trio de comedia! Aki naturalmente se queja con Makima, quien simplemente le dice que es él en quien más confía, por lo que sin más, termina aceptando.

¡Galán! Mucho que te quejas con Denji por fantasear con Makima, y ahora es el objeto de tus sueños. Todo lo opuesto a Power, que no se come sus verduras, ni jala la cadena, y no se baña. Y esas expresiones de Denji y Aki no tienen precio, cada una es mejor que la anterior.

Sólo miren a Aki, se nota que dice… ¿Por qué no es Makima? Lo mismo Denji.

Finalmente, a pesar del asco de limpiar los restos de Power, Denji se emociona por los pechos, dándonos a entender que Power también aprendió muy buenos gestos de la mano. Y todo lo que puedo decir es…

¡Primero fue Aki! ¡Y ahora es Power!

Sólo miren esa carita tan linda, tan tierna. ¿No la perdonarían si la vieran así? Especialmente porque le dejará tocar sus senos tres veces.

Y así concluye el Episodio IV, con «Jōzai» (錠剤) by Tooboe

CONCLUSION

Vale. Podemos decir que el Episodio IV estuvo muy entretenido, dándonos por terminado lo que sería el arco de introducción de Power, el personaje más poderoso del ánime (LOL) Y a diferencia de lo que sucedido con el Episodio III, tanto Denji como Power se llevan mejor, creo que más que con Aki, y las batallas estuvieron impecables, gran animación, excelente gore, muchos momentos épicos, y comedia muy graciosa.

Como ya dije, Himeno se ve muy hermosa, tanto como Makima o Power, y no tienen idea de cuánto esperé ver al Demonio de los Zorros, no sólo apareció en el trailer, sino porque su presencia es espectacular, tanto en el manga como en el anime.

Y antes de dejarlo pasar, el ending está bastante genial, pero me sigue gustando el del Episodio III, «Hawatari 2 Oku-senchi» (刃渡り2億センチ), de Maximum the Hormone; sin embargo, hay que aceptar que la animación es muy buena; de hecho, Jozai está a la par con Hawatari 2 Oku-senchi en cuanto a animación. ¡Eso sí! Ver a Power en esos cosplays fue simplemente delicioso.

Y a mis lectores, les doy este premio. ¡Las enfermeras Makima y Power!

En pocas palabras, aquí está mi lista de los endings, el primero siendo el mejor, y el cuarto siendo el… decente.

1. «Chainsaw Blood» by Vaundy
2. Hawatari 2 Oku-senchi» (刃渡り2億センチ), de Maximum the Hormone / «Jōzai» (錠剤) by Tooboe
3. «Zanki» (残機) by Zutomayo

Espero con ansias el Episodio V, y como ya dije, tendré listo mi review del Episodio III pronto, hasta entonces, espero que haya disfrutando de esta review, en español, tanto como yo disfruté en escribirla.

Feliz noviembre, mis amigos… Y hasta la próxima.

JAINITUOS ANIME REVIEWS – MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM: WITCH OF MERCURY – EPISODE 1 – MECHAS AND YURI 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch of Mercury.

Studio: Sunrise

Genre: Mecha, Science Fiction

Hello my friends. Welcome to another entry of my blog.

Firstly, I want to share with you a very special moment – after 12 years and 7 months, I was finally granted the Australian Citizenship.

I have no words for express all the happiness and all the gratitude to those who helped me, supported me and had a lot of faith on me for this very moment. And what can be a better way to celebrate? I know!!! Writing an entry of my blog.

Having said that, I bring to you… THE FIRST MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM ANIME WITH AN LGBT CHARACTER!!!

Nah!!! Who am I kidding? Of course that is a lie, there has been a lot of LGBT characters in Mobile Suit Gundam in the past. Nonetheless, I want to bring you my own opinions about the new series of Gundam that was recently released, and that is…

And I will try to do this in a very slight manner, because yesterday night, I was checking the first episode, but I found more interesting than I expected. I was planning to leave and watch episode two instead, so I can write a First Impressions, but I was surprised by some… circumstances of the episode, influenced by the ending of Lycoris Recoil, and the desire of the fans… (if you know what I am talking about), and the relationships of the characters, so I decided to write about the first episode instead.

But before I start, I must ask you the typical question:

Are you guys ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes, then I am happy.

Now, let’s get into the mecha with the first episode of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch of Mercury.

EPISODE ONE

The episode starts with our protagonist, Suletta Mercury, who recently arrived to the prestigious Asticassia School of Technology; she is very excited, and she says to the mother that she finally made it. Everything goes well, but suddenly Suletta sees a person in a spacesuit, apparently stranded; believing the person is in danger, Suletta gets inside her Gundam Aerial to rescue her, and she successfully brings the person in. Or that is what she believes.

Shortly afterwards, the astronaut headbutts Suletta and reveals she was trying to escape. After Suletta arrives to the school, she discovers that the girl she «rescued» was none other than Miorine Rembran.

The reason of why Miorine tried to escape was because she was engaged to one of the brutish students of the school, yet the top duelist, or «Holder», Guel Jeturk, a movement done by Miorine’s father, Delling Rembran, head of the powerful Benerit Group, the biggest financial and political conglomerate of the universe.

Basically like Disney, but in Gundam universe.

The fact is that Miorine was very unhappy with the arrangement, and her relationship with her father is… How to put it in nice words? Disastrous!!!

Meanwhile, Suletta meets again with Miorine to apologize for her actions, much to the latter’s annoyance, and demands Suletta to leave her alone. However, they have a small moment of bonding thanks to a tomato that Miorine planted. The thing is that, at her place, Miorine has kind of a greenhouse to plant her trees, and offers Suletta a tomato in exchange of leaving her alone.

Shortly afterwards, Guel arrives to confront Miorine for her actions, and to «discipline» her, needless to say that he is going to usr violence against her. But, then, gets, one of the best scenes on the whole episode. In order to «rescue» Miorine, Suletta spanks Guel… literally.

I personally love the way Suletta was trying to be assertive, with her whole body shaking in nervousness. I think that says a lot of the character. However, Guel is anything but happy, and tells Suletta that in the Academy, the duels are the ones that imposes the rules, going beyond, from a simple apology to an engagement. And is how things are.

Man… And I thought that the Hyakkaou Private Academy was a despicable school.

Guel challenges Suletta to a duel, and if she loses, she will be forced to leave the academy. Naturally, Suletta accepts. Meanwhile, Guel’s father plants a bomb on the spacecraft of Delling, in the hopes that his death will legitimate Guel as the rightful heir of the Benerit Group.

During the duel, Guel and the school discovers that it was actually Miorine who pilots the Gundam Aerial, not Suletta. But that does not stops the latter to get into a hoverbike and get into her precious mecha and activate the true power of her Gundam, and quickly defeat Guel.

The victory immediately grants Suletta the position of the «Holder», and well as a fiancee. Yes. Suletta becomes the girlfriend of Miorine.

And of course, the assassination attempt is immediately called off, and with this glorious posse of the Gundam Aerial, we conclude Episode One.

IMPRESSIONS

Ok! Where to start?

I must confess that, when I saw the final scene of the engagement of The Witch from Mercury, I couldn’t believe it. And yet, I was prepared to meet something like that, because I was reading on the Internet that some of Lycoris Recoil fans were heading to The Witch from Mercury in order to satisfy some «yuri» desires.

And I am not saying this. This is the article I took that statement. Be careful, because it is in Spanish.

Los fans de Lycoris Recoil ‘se mudan’ al nuevo anime de Gundam

In some terms, it says that the ending of episode one from The Witch from Mercury were hooked by the possible yuri relationship between Miorine and Suletta, and I am saying possible because I am waiting to watch more episodes of this series in order to watch how these two characters evolve.

Indeed I will get more surprises.

But changing the topic, I saw one of the best themes that has most of the Mobile Suit Gundam series – social commentary; in this case, how capitalism and financial power wretches society, to the point of racism, misogyny and discrimination. In this case, only those who are powerful can oppress and abuse the least fortunates. And it is done in the most subtle way possible, just like Gundam does.

And Delling reminded me a lot of Andrew Ryan from BioShock, and his most famous quote.

He does not even has a lot of interest of her daughter, only about maintaining his power and I will not be surprised if he becomes the main antagonist of The Witch from Mercury, or a major one.

But indeed the best part was how the bond between Miorine and Suletta was born, with some simple moments, they start a great adventure, including the «rescue» from the beginning, Miorine offering a tomato to Suletta, the intervention of Suletta against Guel, and the offical engagement.

And of course… the animation. It is Studio Sunrise, the one that has done practically every series of Mobile Suit Gundam from 1979. And this time, it is not the exception.

Anyway, the episode one was great. And I want to watch more, especially to see if there is really that amount of yuri. THUMBS UP!!!

And because I love you, my friends, I leave this image of our favourite yuri couple of The Witch from Mercury…

Did I say image? I meant… Galleria!!!

drawn by greatwhite1122

drawn by kaji kento

drawn by Gojarun

Because I love you all!!!

Anyway, hope you like my review. See you soon.

JAINITUOS TRAILER REVIEWS – NIER: AUTOMATA VER1.1A – MY OWN IMPRESSIONS

Nier Automata Ver1.1A

Genre: Sci-Fi, Action

Studio: A-1 Pictures

Hello my friends, Welcome to another entry of my blog.

Jus like the last week I decided to make a little review of the teaser trailer of the anime of Genshin Impact, produced by Ufotable…

…Today I have decided to do a little review about the teaser trailer of Nier Automata Ver. 1.1A.

And I hope that you can forgive, because most likely I will have less to say here than what I said on my review of Genshin Impact, however, this is a very unique opportunity that I cannot just let it go. I hope you like my friends.

But before I start, I must ask you the typical question:

Are you guys ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes, then I am very happy.

Now, let’s continue.

NIER AUTOMATA

Firstly, I must tell you that I know less about Nier: Automata than what I know about Genshin Impact, And I shouldn’t, because if there is anything I enjoy in this world, is an amazing video game of sci-fi with a great story, fantastic characters and a handful of philosophical and political themes that leaves you wondering. Heck! One of my favourite games of all time is BioShock.

Which, by the way, I finished twelve years ago with the Good Ending.

Nonetheless, I hace basic knowledge about Nier: Automata; from what I heard, it is a sequel of Nier, a spin-off of Drakengard, and it take place thousands of years after the fifth ending of the first game. Now, Nier: Automata takes us to an apocalyptic world, where some mostly emotionless androids, from a series called YoRHa, fight alien-created machines to protect what remains of Earth. One of these androids is callled 2B, or. YoRHa No. 2 Type B, who is accompanied by a male android, called 9S, who displays more emotions than her. And both goes on a series of missions in which they fight enemies, discover their human side and understand the meaning of life, with someone tragic consequences and sacrifices, pretty much like its mother series, Drakengard. I know this not the most detailed synopsis, but, like I said, I have never played Nier: Automata.

What I know is that 2B has become an icon for many fans, as well as 9S.

How to say No to these two beautifully designed warriors?

And despite everything, I… have some fetish toward 2B. Honestly.

Art by Inhoso.

I have it. She has her charm, and I think she has become one of the best characters done by Yoko Taro. I am dead serious, I barely remember any character from Drakengard, only the soundtrack of the first game, but I immediately can identify who is 2B, and 9S. In fact, I am more interested in 9S rather than 2B. I do not know why.

Anyway, My surprise when I read an anime adaptation of Nier: Automata was pretty clear. As much as with Genshin Impact.

And now, five years, after the release of the original game, we see a trailer of an upcoming anime, courtesy of our always beloved friends from A-1 Pictures, who are bosses on this 2022.

And I am not count the work of Cloverworks in both 2021 and 2022.

And now… What does the trailer talk about?

TRAILER

Ok. How to put this?

Basically the teaser trailer of the anime is the same one from the original video game from 2017, first we see 2B questioning about her existence, wondering if what is happening around her is a curse or a punishment, while afterwards, we have 9S looking forward to the future with a glimpse of optimism, quite the opposite of 2B. For those who played the game, they will definitely know better how to enjoy the elements of each character. But what really surprised are two elements; the first one is the animation. It is beautiful.

Of course it is not on the same level as Ufotable’s Demon Slayer or MAPPA’s Jujutsu Kaisen or Chainsaw Man, but again, A-1 Pictures knew what is the style that an anime of Nier: Automata, less Lycoris Recoil and more 86: Eighty-Six, and it is not like I have something against Lycoris Recoil, but with a plot like that, I would prefer more of the former due to the serious tone, and less this…

Soon, the fans of Chisato will kill me.

Also, that soundtrack… I wonder if the composer will be Yuki Kajiura again. That will not surprise me. This video will tell you the details better.

The second element is the voice cast. I confess… that this is the very first time I saw the voice cast on Japanese, Yui Ishikawa is fantastic in every project she works… And what can I saw about Natsuki Hanae?

I will say this one. If I consider Saori Hayami a goddess in seiyuu world, then Natsuki Hanae is a god. Everything they perform warms my heart, and with 9S, it is not the exception.

Looking forward for this January, 2023.

CONCLUSION

Indeed, this teaser trailer really kept the essence of the video game, at least on the most basic level, and I will be waiting for its release, so we will know how good it is. A-1 Pictures is one of my favourite anime studios, so I’m sure I will not get disappointed on this anime project.

Nier: Automata and Genshin Impact – hooking me to two worlds of wonder and existentialism.

Until then, what will I do? I know!!! I will ask Yoko Taro if he can make me my own 2B. What do you say, Taro-sensei?

Eh… Never mind.

Anyway, tell me what you think about the trailer of Nier: Automata: ver1.1a, see you soon.

JAINITUOS TRAILER REVIEWS – NEW GENSHIN IMPACT ANIME BY UFOTABLE – MY OWN IMPRESSIONS

New Genshin Impact trailer

Studio: Ufotable

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

Hello my friends, Welcome to another entry of my blog.

Today… I want to do something different, because I was surfing, for news, material and just a bit of inspiration for writing new stories and entry blogs… A lot of things, when I suddenly saw in the anime news than event that really surprised me, and that is Ufotable, yes… our beloved studio famous for making living classic like Demon Slayer and the most of the Fate franchise anime, is making an anime of absolutely one of the most famous online games so far. Naturally I am talking about…

So I will do it is just tell you what is going on in the trailer, then I will express my thoughts regarding the idea of an anime of Genshin Impact, and then I will give my conclusions about the concept, because it is really worth it.

But before I commence, I must ask the typical question:

Are you guys ok? Feeling healthy?

If the answer is yes, then I am very happy.

TRAILER

Now, I want to tell you that I am not going to give any spoilers about Genshin Impact. Well, despite being familiar with some of its characters, and crazy about Mona Megistus, I have never ever played Genshin Impact, because I already use Steam, and because of the games I play, I spent too many hours of my day, even more than the ones I wanted to use on gaming. And for me that is a problem, because I want to play Genshin Impact, but… what if I become obsessed?

(Ironically that makes me ask myself…. what is wrong with that?)

(sigh) Never mind. My point is that I love the concept of Genshin Impact, and the trailer, of shall I say teaser, is very basic, so there is nothing to spoil. Having said that, let’s continue.

Firstly, the trailer starts with the night sky, possibly as a reference to the origins of both Lumine and Aether, and then we see the appearance of the logos of both Ufotable and HoYoVerse, who, for those do not know, is the company that created Genshin Impact and Honkai Impact 3rd. Also… HoYoVerse is based on Shanghai, China.

Be honest… Do you thought they are Japanese? Eh?

Shortly afterwards, we past through a forest, in which at first doesn’t seen to be so much to show, but then… we see our beloved partner…

PAIMON… who, my goddess… Is incredibly cute!!! KAWAII!!! And, if you notice the face of Paimon, you will immediately see that this animation was indeed done by Ufotable, sometimes that the Fate anime fans, myself including, will cherish straight away. Now, Paimon guides us through the forest, and then, we see one minute of amazingly beautiful landscapes of Teyvat, mostly they are waterfalls, mountains, forests, and other territories. I will asume that some belong to Mondstadt, others to Liyue Harbour, and the statue most likely belongs to Inazuma, the Nation of Eternity.

I apologise for being so short in my words, but like I said, I never played Genshin Impact, so I barely recognise anything of Teyvat.

Finally, we got a shot of both Aether and Lumine, holding hands and looking ahead, as if they were saying We are ready for adventure.

Then the trailer delight us with a tracking shot of the beautiful landscapes of Teyvat, ending with the logo of our beloved story, saying…

«HoYoverse x Ufotable

Long-Term Project Launch

Let’s step into this vast Magical World of adventure together!«

And the trailer ends.

MY THOUGHTS

Now. I must confess you, people, that I was not expecting an anime of Genshin Impact. Why you ask? I… don’t really know, especially if we keep in mind that this game is incredibly in both China, Japan and the rest of the world, and also because right now the Japanese studios are expanding abroad and adapting stories like Tower of God, The God of Highschool and the upcoming Solo Leveling, all based in South Korean manhwa.

So it was a matter of time that an anime of Genshin Impact will come soon to us. I guess that I was sceptical, because China recently was making some changes to the game, one of them changing the costume of Mona Megistus, from the blue leotard to the Pact of Sun and Moon costume, being the only one available to Chinese servers.

Art by Maica Sunahara

Of course, she does not look bad, but I was thinking that perhaps China did not want to outsource the licence Genshin Impact has become, mostly due to profits. Anyway. Now that I see that they will be anime, I am overhyped, I think the anime of Chainsaw Man, and the second part of Spy X Family have created on me a hype this powerful.

What I can I say about the animation?

I expected no less from Ufotable. During the last decade, Ufotable has become one of my favourite anime studios, along with A-1 Pictures, MAPPA, Wit Studio, and Bones among others. And despite this trailer is very basic, you will be delight with the beautiful landscapes and the waterfall, which is the best from everything, and… I don’t think they choose a better studio for an anime version of Genshin Impact.

I saw that some people in YouTube disappointed that Ufotable was producing this instead of going back to the Fate franchise, but I ask… What else do they need to produce at this point regarding Fate? Any other story from Fate/Grand Order? I am not against that, but I think Ufotable deserves a break from Fate and try to do something different, along with Demon Slayer.

Now… My last question. If this going to be a prequel of Genshin Impact? A sequel? What is going to be? Because I think the story of the game is kind of self-contained. And yes, I said that I never played the game, but I also said that I am more or less familiar with the concept.

One thing is for sure… Something big is coming for Genshin Impact, and I will be there for check it out and do my review.

As a matter of fact… I can start playing Genshin Impact in my IPad.

CONCLUSION

And there you go. This idea looks interesting, and I hope that Ufotable gives us something funny, entertaining and poignant for Genshin Impact. Like I said, I am overhyped, I hope that most of you are too.

If you want to check the trailer of Genshin Impact, I will leave the link here.

Enjoy my friends.

And before, I will also leave you with what everything wants to see… Galleries of Astrologist Mona Megistus.

And I will say it again… Mona has the best ass in all Genshin Impact!!!

See you soon.