After eight anime I was watching finished airing this spring, I’ve so far picked up six spring ’11 shows to replace them on my “watching” list. As I mentioned before, for some reason I was having a lot of trouble deciding which shows to watch this season. But as of now I feel I’ve pretty much come to a decision and will stick with these six, so it’s time for another obligatory first impressions review…
Hanasaku Iroha
Episodes 1-3 so far
Iroha was the first anime I decided to watch this spring, and of the ones I’ve seen, it had the best first episode (with Ano Hana and [C] right behind). In just that one episode Ohana is brilliantly established as a likable, sympathetic protagonist, and the anguish that’s brought out in her unfortunate situation by the end of the episode is truly dramatic. Three episodes in now and it continues to be a good show. It has scenarios that tug at your heartstrings and characters who are starting to develop. My main frustration with the series is how insufferably mean most of the other characters are to Ohana, and the injustices she has to put up with often go unpunished (like being kidnapped/sexually harassed in episode 3). But I think this is meant to be part of the narrative so we’ll appreciate how much better things get for her by the end of the show. So hang in there, Ohana!
[C] The Money of Soul and Possibility Control
Episode 1 so far
My inclination to watch this series came simply because the story sounded so interesting. Noitamina anime are known to offer better and more universal story telling quality with less otaku pandering (though the only ones I’ve seen before this season are Eden of the East, Fractale, and Wandering Son). Like Iroha, [C] had an excellent first episode which doesn’t get a chance to explain much but still leaves the viewer begging for more. The first episode does offer good background for the main protagonist, Kimimaro, as well as the still vaguely defined Financial District that’s a central part of the story. The design of the District, with its detailed CGI rendered animation that give off the feel of a constantly shifting virtual reality world can only be described as trippy and will probably be the most memorable part of the series. Like I said, not much has been explained in episode 1 besides background for Kimimaro and subtle hinting at the Financial District, but I certainly have high hopes for [C].
The World God Only Knows 2
Episode 1 so far
This second season of TWGOK continues the formula from the first season, with more (real) girls for our dating game expert Keima to “conquer” using the techniques he learns in his game. Besides having a fun premise, what I like about TWGOK is that it never feel like it’s insulting my intelligence despite dealing with very otaku pandering themes (it even challenges my intellect at times). I also like how the series treats the seemingly archetypal girls Keima conquers with dignity by giving them interesting backgrounds and struggles they have to overcome. After one episode, I have a feeling season 2 will offer the same entrainment as the first.
Steins;Gate
Episodes 1-2 so far
I wasn’t originally planning to watch Steins;Gate because I had not seen Chaos;Head. However, once I saw how popular it was and learned that you didn’t need to watch Chaos;Head in order to understand it, I decided to check it out. I heard it was a complicated series, but so far I haven’t had too much trouble following it. The science and otaku references usually go over my head, but that’s about it. It looks like it’ll be a good mystery story with interesting, eccentric characters. I’m also loving Mamoru Miyano as Rintarou – I usually recognize his voice right away but I didn’t this time ^^,,, And I’m glad to see Halko Mamoi with another anime role as “Feiris-chan” =)
Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai
Episode 1 so far
Despite having such an unnecessarily long name (Ano Hana for short), this series looks to be another promising Noitamina anime. After Iroha, I feel it had the best first episode of the ones I’ve seen, clearly establishing the characters and the relatively simple but heart-warming plot. The reason I’m liking this anime so much is because I can’t predict what will happen – how will we fill up 13+ episodes with Jinta just having to bring some friends back together? It sounds like something that’s harder than it looks and will lead to a lot of drama and character development, which is what I’m hoping for. I’m sure he’ll end up bringing them back together, but how it actually happens is what I’m interested in. My only complaint in the first episode is the very cliche moe interactions between Jinta and Meiko in the first ten or so minutes before the plot surfaces. But I suppose it was meant to be a “hook” for otaku viewers before the series could take off. And am I the only one who thinks the character designs in this show look strikingly similar to Toradora!?
Nichijou
Episodes 1-3 so far
The only reason I decided to watch Nichijou is because it’s produced by my favorite studio, Kyoto Animation. The bizarre humor that the series revolves around didn’t catch my fancy at all until episode 2, which actually gave me some chuckles. Episode 3, only a little – I have a feeling Nichijou will be a very hit-or-miss anime, with some episodes making me laugh but most just giving me a slight smile. For some reason Nichijou makes me reminiscent of Azumanga Daioh – both have very “random” humor, but the former is more bizarre while the latter is more drawn from the characters’ personalities. Normally I would consider dropping Nichijou but I’m dedicated to KyoAni and the show is slowly growing on me, so I’ll be sticking with it.
———-
It seems like the common seiyuu for me this season are Haruka Tomatsu and Takahiro Sakurai. Haruka has a whooping three major roles in the shows I’m watching this spring, two of which are alongside Takahiro Sakurai in [C] and Ano Hana.
Besides these six, I also checked out the first episode of Tiger & Bunny, but unfortunately I found it rather boring. Emphasis on flashy action hero and mecha goodness just isn’t for me. But I have faith in Sunrise so I may watch the series after it’s finished if I hear likable things about it.
I could probably add another series or two without overloading myself – there are a couple more I’m eying, including the ones with short running times like Azazel-san and Reibei-sensei which wouldn’t be a big commitment, but I don’t know. For the past few months I’ve been ignoring my New Year’s resolution to rewatch anime, so I should use time for that rather than add new shows. ::sigh:: Sometimes I wish there was more than 24 hours per day XD
I’m watching three of your current shows: Hanairo, Anohana, and [C]. I’m in love with all three of them! (Don’t know of you read my first impressions posts) All three had fantastic first episodes that left me wanting so much more! Plus the animation for all of them were great too!
Personally, I like Tiger & Bunny. It’s just so out there that it works. And the second and third episodes did focus on character development while still having some good action, so I’m sticking with it.
(My final watch list is up at Aimless.)
Looking forward to enjoying Iroha, AnoHana, and [C] with you =D And I’m glad to hear that Tiger & Bunny is showing character development.
Just watched the first two episodes of Stein’s;Gate and I’m picking it up too. :)
The only show we don’t have in common is “C”, but everything else on your list I’ve seen (including Kami nomi‘s latest episode キタアアアアアアアアアア！).
Iroha has immense potential both as a show and as a show that will seemly troll international fans on just about every episode. I still greatly enjoy it regardless of the latest episode’s hijinx and plan to import it. The ED theme is absolutely amazing and I can’t wait for my copy to arrive.
Kami nomi 2 – キタアアアアアアアアアア！ That says it all.
Ano Hana didn’t impress me very much. I understand the concept but Menma reminds me too much of Index for me to care about her. The rest seemed to drag on for me. I’m hoping it’ll improve to my liking, but who knows?
Steins;Gate offers immense amusement for me. I can’t find a way to take the show as seriously as it needs to be taken, but lines such as “Houoin-san…” just make me laugh. The fact that a character is actually named Feiris Nyan Nyan just tops the show for me. It is both literally and figuratively bananas.
Finally, I have an idea about a post on Nichijou and the fact that it reminds me greatly of a variety show. I’m quite surprised 2D-T didn’t mention it in his post. It has many scenes that hit, and many that miss. The variety gives it the opportunity to move past the parts that don’t appeal to me and focus on the parts that do (“That’s Sakemoto-san to you!”).
How are the carryovers from Winter going for you? Gosick has really been great lately and I’m looking forward to it every Friday. Also, I’d say to beware your wish to re-watch shows. There are times where you can watch something too many times in a short period….
By your comment on Kami nomi, I assume it’s referring to the arrival of the new main character XD
You know, I actually felt the same way about AnoHana – Meiko did remind me very much of Index; like I said, I was put off by the first half of the episode but for me it really picked up in the latter half.
Steins;Gate’s ability to blend “serious” mystery with passive humor looks to be its strong point =P
The only carryover winter show I’m watching is Gosick and it’s been growing on me. Oh, and looking forward to your Nichijou post =)
I’m watching about half the bloody shows airing this season, which include the ones you’re watching, except for Nichijou. I think this is the most I’ve watched in a season, so I’m curious if I can handle it without burning myself out.
Too bad you didn’t like Tiger & Bunny, though. I enjoyed the first episode, and the second episode was alright, but the third episode was great. Mainly because BGM they used was intense and set the mood perfectly.
You should check out Fireball Charming, if you haven’t already. Basically only two minutes of witty banter, but it’s extremely enjoyable.
Yeah, I can’t handle more than about 6-8 seasonal shows (and I would consider myself having a decent amount of free time) so I don’t know how some people do it.
I can recognize Tiger & Bunny as being a good show for its genre, but such a genre just isn’t my taste. But if it later on shows elements that appeal to me I may consider it at a later date (and maybe Fireball Charming too).
I’m watching all of these except TWGOK 2 as I wasn’t around for the first one (maybe one day). Almost all my favorites are on this list anyway–this season looks like it’ll be really promising! :D
I agree that Ano Hana and Hanasaku Iroha had the best first episodes. Not my favorite episodes (shounen fanboy tendencies made me love Tiger & Bunny and Ao no Exorcist more), but definitely the best well-made with great characterization and animation. C holds a lot of potential though–it’s a classic set-up episode, so I’m really interested to see how it will progress.
I’m hoping Tiger & Bunny will be so awesome, you might be convinced to marathon it. It’s been my favorite show of the season so far though nothing wrong with different tastes. :3
“Sometimes I wish there was more than 24 hours per day XD”
I always wish for this, haha. :)
Glad you’re liking these shows too ^^ I was considering Ao no Exorcist but I think I have enough on my plate for now. Perhaps another time as I’m always up for shonen goodness if done right.
Oh, and I recommend The World God Only Knows – I think it’s kind of underrated actually =)
I’ll check it out then. :) Thanks for the rec!
I’m watching 4 of your 6 shows :D Wasn’t interested in TWGOK2 since I haven’t watched the prequel. I want to watch Steins;gate, but I think the only way I’m gonna understand/remember what’s going on is if I marathon it. So I’m gonna wait till its all out before watching it. If i can resist the temptation to watch for that long . >~<
I'm pretty wary of [C], since its from noitamina, and after what happened last season with Fractale, I'm cautious with experimental anime. Too many times they have so much potential and just fall flat on their endings. (flying panthers!)
Nichijou's on the fence for me now. Like you said, it's a hit-or-miss anime. Some of the gags are funny, while others aren't and just remain confusing. I like the talking cat, but he hasn't come up much yet. I also like the quiet megane girl Mai.
Seems like there are quite a few new seiyuu up this season. Usually I can identify a seiyuu by name after the character says a single line. Not anymore. … *sigh* I feel old.
Yeah, Fractale was a bit of a disappointment, but from what I’ve heard, Noitanima’s other anime have all been well received (and by “flying panthers” do you mean Occult Academy? I think that’s Anime no Chikara not Noitanima).
I’m somehow watching half the shows that air…..or maybe more than half….almost all of the relevant ones anyway.
Likewise, my first impressions post is taking a while.
Wow that’s a lot! Hope you can get through them all, and that you enjoy them of course.
” how will we fill up 13+ episodes with Jinta just having to bring some friends back together? ”
We won’t, the anime will last 11 episodes.
And Ano Hana is made by the same people that made Toradora,same director,writer,character designer and animation director :)
Oh, it’s only going to be 11 episodes? Thanks for the info =)
And I just couldn’t get over the character design similarities between AnoHana and Toradora! so I’m glad to know I wasn’t imagining it XD I just wasn’t sure because AnoHana is produced by A-1 Pictures and Toradora! is by J.C. Staff.
I’m watching Nichijou and Hanasaku Iroha, Steins;Gate and [C] are on my “wait for approval” list.
About Ano Hana: I tought it will be a good anime, but I can’t stand Menma; she is so childley and her high (HIGH) pitch voice… she ruined the anime for me. Dropped it just for her :/
Yeah, I can tell how her type of character could turn off certain people – I’m not thrilled with it myself but I can tolerate it if there are other things about the show that I like.
I will be trying the ones that we do not have in common, as they look interesting.
Nichijou is one of those shows that I just enjoy the randomness of it all. Some of the things I just don’t get (have to be Japanese to understand I guess…), but the things that I do get, I find to be hilarious.
As for Stein’s Gate, I agree with Ultimatemegax on it being hard to take it as serious as it should be, though the show concept fascinates me. The science references are either odd, misplaced, or wrong, but as long as it stays consistent within its own universe, I don’t mind
Iroha has to be probably my favorite show of the season. I think it is beautifully done, and I look forward to it every week.
I did want to chime in about Iroha episode 3. I get the feeling that so many people have the knee jerk “Bondage!?, OMG!!” reaction and forget some of the context that is going on in that scene. At no point is Ohana actually in any danger. In fact, I would say that she is actually the one in control in that she was telling the author how to do it right, and that she wouldn’t make a fuss once the gag came loose. She wasn’t pleased by it, but she didn’t want to cause a fuss since it got resolved (albeit in a way that is not palatable to most viewers) . I think this may just be a cultural thing we are missing… Ultimately, I think the writers lose on the scene as a whole. If they go with the more serious sexual assault type story, then they are not good for putting a 16 year old (fictional mind you) girl through a traumatic event, and so lose out. If they take the route that they did, they get called out for making light…. I just don’t see it as a situation that can be anything other than lose-lose. I think the whole point also of the scene, is that sometimes you just find yourself in the most awkward and ridiculous (though not necessarily funny) situations. But of course, this is only my opinion on the matter. I have many other opinions about the episode as a whole, but don’t think it detracted from anything like a lot of others, since there was character development.
I am also curious as to the holdovers from last season. I think Gosick is probably one of my favorites for the year.
That’s a really good view of episode 3 of Iroha. The Japanese concepts of shame and “the customer is king” are often hard for Western viewers to comprehend – in this case, Ohana is sacrificing a certain amount of her own dignity and putting up with bad treatment in order to not bring shame and trouble to her workplace (which would result if the cops were to be called). We Americans like to see justice served for everything but that’s not the case in Japan.
I’m watching those, except TWGOK, and Nichijou. I haven’t seen the 1st season of TWGOK. I do not like dating games, or anime based on those, so the premise did not really call my attention. But I’ve heard good things about it, so I may check it out.
Hanasuka Iroha seems to be the best anime this season. I’ve seen the 1st 3 ep as well, and it’s going really well so far! I agree there have been some over-the-top situations in ep 3, but it had a good ending anyway. The girls introduved are likeable, and it seems Ohana will be getting along with them all soon. Even the grandma does not seem to be as mean as she appears :)
In addition to those, I’m watching battle girls – time paradox. Not much to say about that one, it’s pretty light, but it’s pretty fun none the less. Also deadmans wonderland. I’ve only seen ep. 1 and it had a really good intro. It’s setting up a pretty complex plot so it could be interesting. I’ll see how it goes.
I would recommend The World God Only Knows as it mostly parodies dating sim concepts rather than revels in them.
As for Iroha, I actually thought the grandma was nice at first until the whole slapping thing in the first episode. Maybe she’s not heartless, but the way she runs her business and treats her workers is just too old-fashioned for my taste.
I’ll be watching Tiger and Bunny, and I’ll probably pick up TWGOK Season 2. Based on your recommendations I might “collect” Hanasaku Iroha and AnoHana for viewing at a later date. Just not in a frame of mind right now for stuff that’s serious or too introspective. Those can wait for the summer!
Yeah, the only “non-serious” anime I’m watching this season are Nichijou and TWGOK II (and I would say Steins;Gate to an extent). I know all about periods of time where you just want light and comedic and nothing brain-straining. There will be time for them in the summer =)
Right now, Hanasaku Iroha and Steins Gate I have watched so far that you have watched. Do you plan on checking out Deadman Wonderland and Blue Exorcist?
I was considering both of those series at first but I think I’m good for now. I may check them out at a later time =)
The thing with Steins; Gate is that it refers to actual real-life conspiracy theories: the “time traveler” John Titor is a true Internet phenomenon (Google his name and you’ll see), and the particle collider at CERN/SERN is another real-life conspiracy theory (i.e., that a black hole will be created by the collision of atoms and the Earth will get swallowed up by it). So for me, Steins; Gate is both darkly funny and jarringly close to real life – real life on the Internet, anyway. ;)
I guess for me, Hanasaku Iroha is my one “show with girls in it” this season. It’s all right so far. Haven’t seen ep 3 yet – not sure I’m looking forward to Ohana in bondage actually. :0
BTW, I’m adding Blue Exorcist to my watchlist. I’m watching more series this season than in any previous anime season(!). But then, too much anime is never enough. =D
Cool, I had a feeling those references in Steins;Gate had some truth to them but I wasn’t sure =)
I’m glad you’re watching a “show with girls” for a change ;) Hopefully Iroha will be to your liking.
And I’ll also be keeping an eye on Ao no Exorcist for a later date.
I’m enjoying both Hanasaku Iroha and Steins;Gate a lot so far. I’m a bit annoyed at how the novelist in HanaIro didn’t get more punishment, but at the same time, I think the whole bondage scene really highlights what a strong character Ohana is. Steins;Gate is quite fun and engaging.
Pretty good season so far.
I have watch all the new spring anime that you mention above except Nichijou. I have watch the OVA but I’m not captivated enough to watch the series.
I find many of the shows that otaku pander bland when they dig up a lot of older references. At least The World Only God Knows stick to fairly recent references and themes. I don’t watch much of anything from the 90s. The animation is just too painful.
Hmm. They seem pretty cool. Sigh… turns out that my computer has no sound so i’ll be sticking with Funamation then. Sigh…