So, another year, another list... If you think that I'm gonna let 2017 goes by without watching even a single series of anime... then you probably don't know me at all. Last year I manage to create two list (part 1 and part 2 where I had explain about 20 anime series that I had watched) and well.... that was fun. I never had that much of fun while explaining about anime before and so, as a part of unwanted tradition - this year I had come back again to explain another set of anime series I had watched. Now, I'm not gonna bother myself with writing a whole bunch of introduction so Imma just jump straight to it. Let's hope that it will be as fun as last year, yeah?
Side note: Unlike the predecessor post, this time my list is a little bit tamed and generally positive in nature. Therefore, feel free to scroll down without hesitation to see what I have to say for each and one of these anime.
Are you ready? Here it goes...
1.) Tenshi no Konamaiki / A Cheeky Angel (Re-watching)
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| picture credit: Google image |
Date Watched: 2014 (original); June 2017 (re-watched)
Reason Why I Watched This:
Just revisiting one of my favorite anime series of all time. I also had made a post about this anime series on my blog before in case you are interested to check it out.
Memorable character: Megumi Amatsuka and Genzo Soga
My Review:
A Cheeky Angel is an anime with quite long episodes (about 50), but since it's a good anime series and I had a bad urge to watch it; I can't help myself from completing the marathon in just five days!! I had actually watched this anime around three years ago and even made quite extensive review about it. I guess that ought to teach you something about what this anime meant to me, and how my past (review) doesn't lie. Anyway, as far as my (updated) review go, I don't think I have anything much to add except I might come back in the next to three years to re-watch this anime again (yep, I'm a big fan).
Rating: 4.1 /5.0 (it was fun to be watching Megumi's Protection Club gang again!)
2.) Natsume Yuujinchou Go / Natsume's Book of Friends (Continuing new series)
A friend from my previous university suggested this series to me (I think it's around five years ago) and I had been hooked ever since. I still reminded of her every time I saw this series.
A Cheeky Angel is an anime with quite long episodes (about 50), but since it's a good anime series and I had a bad urge to watch it; I can't help myself from completing the marathon in just five days!! I had actually watched this anime around three years ago and even made quite extensive review about it. I guess that ought to teach you something about what this anime meant to me, and how my past (review) doesn't lie. Anyway, as far as my (updated) review go, I don't think I have anything much to add except I might come back in the next to three years to re-watch this anime again (yep, I'm a big fan).
Rating: 4.1 /5.0 (it was fun to be watching Megumi's Protection Club gang again!)
2.) Natsume Yuujinchou Go / Natsume's Book of Friends (Continuing new series)
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| picture credit: Google image |
Year Released: 2008-present
Date Watched: May 2017
Reason Why I Watched This:
A friend from my previous university suggested this series to me (I think it's around five years ago) and I had been hooked ever since. I still reminded of her every time I saw this series.
Memorable character: Takashi Natsume and Nyanko-sensei
My Review:
Since its initial release in 2008, this anime series had collected over six seasons (including 2017 which I still haven't get chance to watch) and by looking at the growth of the manga; I have no doubts if new anime is currently in a progress. Natsume Yuujinchou sets a story about an orphan boy by the name of Takashi Natsume, a sixteen-year-old boy whom possess a power to be able seeing youkai (sprits). It's a special ability that he inherited from his maternal grandmother, Reiko-san. After his parents death, Natsume have to be thrown a lot from one relatives to another until he finally found solace in the arms of very nice middle-age couple, Fujiwara's family (who come from his paternal side). Learning from his past mistake, Natsume tries to keep his secret from his new family but the knowledge about his grandmother 'Book of Friends' which contains a lot of Youkai's name in it and appearance of Madara/Nyanko-sensei, soon began to interfere his new life. However, things wasn't so bad as he had think and soon, Natsume begin warming up to the Fujiwara's and making friends with kids in his new school.
So, what so good about this anime you ask?
Well, to me, Natsume Yuujinchou is an anime that send a good vibes to whomever watching it. You'll see how bad things for Natsume to be able seeing spirit, how he grows up as a lonely child without parents love or close friends. So, imagine my delight when a childless couple wanted to take him in and love him as their own (T.T). My heart isn't made of stone, alright? Natsume tragic childhood makes me cry a river and making it difficult to forget about this series as the years goes on. As quoted from the creator/mangaka herself, Yui Midorikawa; Natsume is a boy who is trying to be a kind person' and throughout the anime/manga, it's difficult not to see how Natsume is becoming a character that the mangaka envision him to be.
Rating: 4.56 / 5.0 (Because Natsume really is, a special person to me).
3.) Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood (New)
Year Released: 2008-present
I read the manga by accident (it was volume 7, I think) while I was growing up and it had landed on my watch list ever since. For years, I had completely left the anime adaptation into the oblivion reasonably based on two unreasonable fears: it wouldn't be that good and it would be a waste of time. Luckily, as years passed by, another animation studio had taken a great interest on this series and now fans are given a choice to watch from two different anime adaptation - the 2003 (original) or 2009 (Brotherhood) version. After some meticulous research and consideration, I finally decided to watch 2009 one since they (fans from anime community) said that it's much more loyal to the manga adaptation compared to the 2003 version. A decision well-made I have to say after finished watching the entire (64 episodes) in less than five days!
My Review:
I gotta give credits when it's due, especially towards my friend who introduced this series to me. I remembered the year was 2006, and back then I just started dabbling myself into the world of Japanese manga and animation. Back then, Naruto and Detective Conan were the only two things I knew and imagine my surprise when I realized that there's a whole lot more world (in anime/manga retrospective) to be discovered. So thanks to her, I'm well-aware of this anime existence, but then also come along Bleach, Ouran Highschool, and all other anime's that totally forced Fullmetal Alchemist to take a backseat for almost eleven-long years. Finally, I get around this anime this year and boy, wasn't I'm glad...
I don't really know how much loyal this series is compared to the manga, but so far I'm enjoying the direction of story and how well-drawn the animation is. There's a lot of things seems to be going on in the anime which involves fighting, rediscovering, and etc... but I won't bore you with details as I don't want to spoil this series (at all) cause it really that good. I guess after all had been said and done, the only thoughts that fly over my head is that the crazy amount of time and effort had been putted into creating this series. I know it wasn't easy task, so the only appropriate appreciation that I can give is kudo's to them (both mangaka & creators) and thank you for giving me and fans alike something as exciting as Elric's brothers to watch.
Rating: 4.45 / 5.0 ( It was REALLY good. Pity I didn't take on this series sooner). :)
4.) Sumomomo Momomo (Re-watching)
Year Released: 2006-2007
I was all in for watching old anime this year (meaning any sort of anime that I haven't watch in the last ten years or so) so it's quite natural for this anime to fall into my re-watch list. Come to think of it, this it one of a few lucky anime series that I brought in DVD's and still pretty much in love after all these years... I still remember the day when I decide to buy those two-full DVD's seasons (12 episodes per box) and finish watching it in 3 days. Great times, great times....
My Review:
It's still come a surprise to me that after all of these years, this anime still manage to hold top 5 spot in my heart. Checking on MyAnimeList (MAL) right now, I must have watched about 150 anime's on my list, so to have this anim holding a spot in my Top 5 anime seems a little bit... unfair. Anyway, what can I say?; I guess the heart still wants what it want.
So, Sumomo momomo tells the story about a weak seventeen year old boy, Inuzuka Koshi and the sudden arrival of his unexpected bride, Kuzuryu Momoko. Momoko, a crazy martial arts devotee, dropped by at Inuzuka doorstep with two missions inside her head; to marry the guy and then start having babies with him. Crazy right? I know. Apparently, their fathers Sendayu and Unken are both well-known and established martial arts practitioner and bff. It's due to Momoko's inability to fully master her clan hidden techniques is what drove her to this drastic decision in order to the produce greatest offspring in the earth (ok, she do it bcoz of the fam, but still CRAAAZY).
Anyway, long story short; with their father's blessings, Momoko's determination, and Koshi retaliation - a lot of things starts to occurs which usually resulted into comical events and Momoko's ruined romantic/seduction plans. It's quite hard to pinned down each and every comical events that's happening in this series because there's a lot, but one of my personal favorite is whenever Momoko's advance is rejected by Koshi, she always retaliate with other way which is far worse than her last! It's like this girl have zero shame and couldn't take the hint that the dude is just not into her. It's ridiculous the amount of rejection and humiliation that this peachy-girl could take, but that's one of the special charm of this anime and making it special in my heart. I highly recommended it!!!
Rating: 4.60 / 5.0 ( After all of those years, this series only gets better).
5.) Shingeki no Kyojin/ Attack on Titan (S01 & S02) (Continuing new series)
Year Released: 2013-present
I watch the first season of Attack on Titan on my final year as undergraduate (it was about 3 years ago) and been keeping an eye on the new season (whenever that may come). They finally releases the second second last April and even though I didn't jump that train much sooner - I did finished the series by the end of June 2017.
My Review:
Screaming... Yes, I remember it distinctly now. There's a lot of screaming involved, especially when I was watching the first season. I know, I sounded dumb to be screaming at an anime but, can you blame me? I was merely following the trend and hype without any knowledge of what I'm getting myself into. Sure, I had some idea about what this series is going to be and when I heard about the Titan - I thought to myself; "How bad can it be?". Well, newsflash - it's really, really bad. I think Imma puke just by thinking about it. Not only that the titans are BIG, they are also disgusting, man... Some anime fans might like that, but the image of Titans putting people into their mouth and popping their heads of is not what I want to remember for the rest of my life.
Okay, I know what you thinking... I'm really asking for it to be watching this series since its already been said in the title [which isn't a right translation btw, as the direct translation is actually 'The Attacking Titan' (source: Joey, TheAnimeMan; 2016)], but it's still brutal, man. The attack and killing, losing limbs, bloods splattered everywhere and those damn fugly Titans... It feel like what nightmares are made off... I remembered they made me scream so much that at one point, my dormitory neighbors had to check on me (I was living in alone back then) to see if I'm alright and haven't lost my marble yet. So, I told her I was watching this crazy anime about Titan's eating people, in which the reaction is just beyond disbelieve and well - she doesn't check upon me again after that. XD
Anyway, fast forward to 2017 - my interest on this anime is still going strong. I finished watching the 12 episodes in less than a week so there you go as a prove.
Rating: 4.20 / 5.0 ( I personally like the first season, but the second one is quite okay too).
6.) Masamune-kun no Revenge (New Series)
Year Released: Jan 2017
Okay, I have a little confession to make... I have a reason for re-watching at least two series on this list. Truth is, it wasn't because I really in the mood to revisit or trying to celebrate my 10th year anniversary with the series. Not really. Truth is.... I was actually too freakin' LAZY to find a new anime series. There, I said it, and here's another reason 'why'. I had abandoned at least two anime seasons (Fall 2016/Winter 2017) due to boring new anime adaptation and clash of interest (I was into other stuff, doing thesis, etc). Anyway, since I had missed out on so much; I finally opened my heart again for Spring 2017 & Summer 2017 list and guess what I found.... This anime above.
My Review:
So, I did said earlier in my intro that I'm not gonna make this review like the previous two R-rated post I had produced, but boy.... This anime is really asking for it. Okay, I'll tried to put this nicely while still staying truthful. This anime... sucks. I know I should give a chance since I'm only half-way watching this series, but it does. It does sucks. Why you ask? Well, for one - the lead characters leave me feeling conflicted about watching the rest of the series. Didn't understand what I'm talking about? That's okay. Imma explain it to you....
For starter, I was first drawn to pick up the series because of this word - 'revenge'. Oh, how I love the possibility that can be offered alongside of that. It's what pinned my interest to this series at first and make it special in my eyes (or so I thought). This anime fall under romantic-comedy (rom-com) series. As you know, like any other rom-com out there; we usually have two main lead; a boy and a girl with a little/lot of comedic elements to it. But, this time it won't be just average kind of boy and girl... This series promised you a revenge by a former chubby-rich-boy, Masamune Makabe. He's the kind of lead who used to be fat and always get bullied by neighborhood kids. As for the girl, we got this rich-princess-type to deal with by the name of Aki Adagaki. Unlike our poor little male lead, she's beautiful, desirable and everybody wanted to hit on her like she's all that....
So what does these two kids have as a common factor you ask?
Well, both of their parents are rich, so that's one... Oh, and Masamune apparently have a crush on Aki when he was little and go as far to confess to her. However, holding up to that bit*hy and stuck up princess title so dearly in her heart - she rejected him as potential boyfriend/first love and told him that he's not really her type. Ouch... Not just that, she even generously created a nickname for him; 'Piggy' because of his appearance (talk about being shallow)... Anyway, several years passed by and that little piggy who used to cry on his way home had turned to be - quite a hottie. See where I'm going with this? I bet you also think the same way as I do. Like this is where the 'revenge' thing starts to happen, right? Well, that's seems to be the plan when Masamune make his second entrance as this handsome boy who looks as fit as a fiddle before revealing his ultimate plan which to seduce and destroy Aki. Ten points for the thought, bro! I'm glad homie gonna show her who's the boss now... Oh gosh, I was really rooting for this guy to succeed. Like hell yeah!
But then, the unthinkable happened....
He slowly falling in love with her - Again!!
Say what now BRO? You work so hard to get that hard rocking abs and beautiful body for years just to be sucked into this succubus grace? Again?? I mean come on Masamune.... Surely you can do better than that!Oh may... What a waste of good premise. Me, totally sad with this new development. After all that effort... why with the sudden soft heart bro? That part I just... AGHHHH!!! Just because you look drop-dead-gorgeous now doesn't means that she's gonna be nicer to you.
Man, I hope this guy could stick to the plan and then dumped her ass cause she totally deserves it. But hey, looks like the mangaka really3x wanted these two lovebirds (puke) to get together so there you go. Forget the past and forget revenge - let go to the fantasy land where everybody have a fairy tale ending cause that's more realistic than having the male character stick to his guns and crush this bish ego and burn it to the ground.
So yeah, I'm done ranting *I mean reviewing* about this anime. In case you are waiting for my personal rating, here's one below....
Rating: 2.5/5.0 (Too bad, even Masamune shiny abs couldn't save this sinking ship.)
7.) Yamishibai series (S01,02,03,04) (Continuing new series)
Year Released: July 2013-present
If you don't know me yet, Imma big fan of Japanese horror. Just check on my past post, you'll understand why....
My Review:
Like I said before, I'm always a huge fan of Japanese horror. Therefore, it hardly even a surprise when Yamishibai finally makes the cut into this list. I discovered this series back in 2014 and had been following the new releases closely ever since. So far, there's only five season being released (with the latest season still airing in Japan as this post is written) and as far as my reviewes goes for those past seasons; I think anyone who's involved in the project are killing it with their job and I can't stressed how much semi-heart attack this series was giving me at early seasons (S01-02) and making me on edge of my seat as I waited for something creepy starts to unfolds.
Anyway, since this series have over 50 episodes so far; I guess what would be a better thing to do besides selecting my favorite top 10 episodes and share it with you in here;
Okay guys, so that's ten highly recommended episodes that I can give to you which all of it are my favorites. Be sure to check them out if you're interested in Japanese animation, alright?
Rating: 3.78/5.0 (some of them are pretty scary)
8.) Youkai Apartment no Yuuga na Nichijou / Elegant Yokai (Ghost) Apartment Life (NEW)
Year Released: Summer 2017
Desperately in need of new anime series and this come close to my own preference. Never even heard about this series before (I only read certain manga I like and doesn't keep up with the rest), but since I like yokai and intrigue with what sort of life that a human being can form with them; I was quite excited to watch this.
My Review:
Okay, so I'm only about three episodes deep for this anime series, but I already can tell - it's gonna be a fun watch. Youkai Apartment brings a story about Inaba Yuushi, an orphan sixteen year old orphan who just recently moved out from his relative's house. Inaba is pretty independent and postive about his future, but when a fire destroyed his new dormitory; he's had to find another place to live. After a long-search, Inaba is left with two options; moved back to his uncle's house, or live in a suspicious apartment that he can rent at low price. Eventually, he decides to choose the latter and it doesn't take long for him to realize that the apartment building he rented, wasn't just only ordinary building. It's is an apartment filled with Youkai's (spirits)!! Given, Inaba is scared to his bone, but he find himself warming up to the tenant and other residence who are occupying the place.
Mind you, this to anime is still airing in Japan as I'm writing this and so far I only watched four episodes, but I can tell already - this anime is going to be great. I had a feeling that it's going to go down as a feel-good anime (like Natsume Yuujinchou) and I'm anticipating the new release every week. I don't know if I can spoil anything more about this anime, but I'm pretty sure at least two of the main characters (Inaba), have some sort of secret powers. Okay, that's it. That's all I'm telling you. If you're interested, go and check this anime yourself. I don't think that you'll be disappointed.
Rating: 4.02/ 5.00 (looking forward for a new episodes from this anime.)
9.) Koi to Uso / Love and Lies (NEW)
Year Released: Summer 2017
I was searching for good romantic-comedy anime and this is one of the best one I could find from this (Summer) season.
Year Released: Summer 2017
A fellow Youtuber made a video that introduces this series and I can't help but thinking it could an interesting watch.
My Review:
So, Kakegurui is an anime that sets in a highschool where gambling is not an illegal activity. You want to win a huge chunk of money? Gamble then. Want to increase you social status at school? Gamble some more. You want to snatched someone else position at school? Gamble is the way to go. Want someone to lick on your shoes or make them your PET? GAMBLE ON!!! In this school, there seems to be nothing that can't be solved without gambling involves.
As the school and students are dragged with unfairness of the rules and losing money left and right, the arrival of transfer student by the name of Jabami Yumeko is about to make the school interesting again. Unlike other students who's careful before selecting their opponents, Yumeko can be considered as pretty reckless. She wasn't too stressful about the possibility of losing money as long as she could gamble (that's compulsive, right there). Anyway, so what makes this anime as interesting watch is not because you want to see who's winning the bet, but to see the consequences of that. Luck plays a heavy interchangeable role in this anime and nobody is really considered as safe (even Yumeko, the leading lady). Take the first two episodes from example... She might've win in the 1st episode, but by 2nd - she already lost a lot more than she gained. And she's the main lead in this series!! That's just one of perfect crazy example when I say nobody is safe...
So far I had only watched 4 episodes because Kakegurui is still airing in Japan. Just like the other two anime's I had picked up for this season, I'm also satisfied with this one and looking forward the new episode release so I could complete this series.
Rating: 3.98 / 5.00 (Jabami, why are you so sexy?)
Okay, I guess that's it guys... That's all the time I had in this anime crossed-off list for the half of 2017. I don't think I would make a part 4 of this (because lack of time), but we'll never know.... So, Thank you for reading this entry and I hope to see you soon. Jya-nee and have a nice day. ;)
Since its initial release in 2008, this anime series had collected over six seasons (including 2017 which I still haven't get chance to watch) and by looking at the growth of the manga; I have no doubts if new anime is currently in a progress. Natsume Yuujinchou sets a story about an orphan boy by the name of Takashi Natsume, a sixteen-year-old boy whom possess a power to be able seeing youkai (sprits). It's a special ability that he inherited from his maternal grandmother, Reiko-san. After his parents death, Natsume have to be thrown a lot from one relatives to another until he finally found solace in the arms of very nice middle-age couple, Fujiwara's family (who come from his paternal side). Learning from his past mistake, Natsume tries to keep his secret from his new family but the knowledge about his grandmother 'Book of Friends' which contains a lot of Youkai's name in it and appearance of Madara/Nyanko-sensei, soon began to interfere his new life. However, things wasn't so bad as he had think and soon, Natsume begin warming up to the Fujiwara's and making friends with kids in his new school.
So, what so good about this anime you ask?
Well, to me, Natsume Yuujinchou is an anime that send a good vibes to whomever watching it. You'll see how bad things for Natsume to be able seeing spirit, how he grows up as a lonely child without parents love or close friends. So, imagine my delight when a childless couple wanted to take him in and love him as their own (T.T). My heart isn't made of stone, alright? Natsume tragic childhood makes me cry a river and making it difficult to forget about this series as the years goes on. As quoted from the creator/mangaka herself, Yui Midorikawa; Natsume is a boy who is trying to be a kind person' and throughout the anime/manga, it's difficult not to see how Natsume is becoming a character that the mangaka envision him to be.
Rating: 4.56 / 5.0 (Because Natsume really is, a special person to me).
3.) Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood (New)
Year Released: 2008-present
Date Watched: June - July 2017
Reason Why I Watched This:
I read the manga by accident (it was volume 7, I think) while I was growing up and it had landed on my watch list ever since. For years, I had completely left the anime adaptation into the oblivion reasonably based on two unreasonable fears: it wouldn't be that good and it would be a waste of time. Luckily, as years passed by, another animation studio had taken a great interest on this series and now fans are given a choice to watch from two different anime adaptation - the 2003 (original) or 2009 (Brotherhood) version. After some meticulous research and consideration, I finally decided to watch 2009 one since they (fans from anime community) said that it's much more loyal to the manga adaptation compared to the 2003 version. A decision well-made I have to say after finished watching the entire (64 episodes) in less than five days!
Memorable character: The Elric Brothers, Roy Mustang and Izumi Curtis
My Review:
I gotta give credits when it's due, especially towards my friend who introduced this series to me. I remembered the year was 2006, and back then I just started dabbling myself into the world of Japanese manga and animation. Back then, Naruto and Detective Conan were the only two things I knew and imagine my surprise when I realized that there's a whole lot more world (in anime/manga retrospective) to be discovered. So thanks to her, I'm well-aware of this anime existence, but then also come along Bleach, Ouran Highschool, and all other anime's that totally forced Fullmetal Alchemist to take a backseat for almost eleven-long years. Finally, I get around this anime this year and boy, wasn't I'm glad...
I don't really know how much loyal this series is compared to the manga, but so far I'm enjoying the direction of story and how well-drawn the animation is. There's a lot of things seems to be going on in the anime which involves fighting, rediscovering, and etc... but I won't bore you with details as I don't want to spoil this series (at all) cause it really that good. I guess after all had been said and done, the only thoughts that fly over my head is that the crazy amount of time and effort had been putted into creating this series. I know it wasn't easy task, so the only appropriate appreciation that I can give is kudo's to them (both mangaka & creators) and thank you for giving me and fans alike something as exciting as Elric's brothers to watch.
Rating: 4.45 / 5.0 ( It was REALLY good. Pity I didn't take on this series sooner). :)
4.) Sumomomo Momomo (Re-watching)
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| picture credit: Google image |
Date Watched: 2008 (original); July 2017 (re-watched)
Reason Why I Watched This:
I was all in for watching old anime this year (meaning any sort of anime that I haven't watch in the last ten years or so) so it's quite natural for this anime to fall into my re-watch list. Come to think of it, this it one of a few lucky anime series that I brought in DVD's and still pretty much in love after all these years... I still remember the day when I decide to buy those two-full DVD's seasons (12 episodes per box) and finish watching it in 3 days. Great times, great times....
Memorable character: Kuzuryu Momoko and Inuzuka Koshi
My Review:
It's still come a surprise to me that after all of these years, this anime still manage to hold top 5 spot in my heart. Checking on MyAnimeList (MAL) right now, I must have watched about 150 anime's on my list, so to have this anim holding a spot in my Top 5 anime seems a little bit... unfair. Anyway, what can I say?; I guess the heart still wants what it want.
So, Sumomo momomo tells the story about a weak seventeen year old boy, Inuzuka Koshi and the sudden arrival of his unexpected bride, Kuzuryu Momoko. Momoko, a crazy martial arts devotee, dropped by at Inuzuka doorstep with two missions inside her head; to marry the guy and then start having babies with him. Crazy right? I know. Apparently, their fathers Sendayu and Unken are both well-known and established martial arts practitioner and bff. It's due to Momoko's inability to fully master her clan hidden techniques is what drove her to this drastic decision in order to the produce greatest offspring in the earth (ok, she do it bcoz of the fam, but still CRAAAZY).
Anyway, long story short; with their father's blessings, Momoko's determination, and Koshi retaliation - a lot of things starts to occurs which usually resulted into comical events and Momoko's ruined romantic/seduction plans. It's quite hard to pinned down each and every comical events that's happening in this series because there's a lot, but one of my personal favorite is whenever Momoko's advance is rejected by Koshi, she always retaliate with other way which is far worse than her last! It's like this girl have zero shame and couldn't take the hint that the dude is just not into her. It's ridiculous the amount of rejection and humiliation that this peachy-girl could take, but that's one of the special charm of this anime and making it special in my heart. I highly recommended it!!!
Rating: 4.60 / 5.0 ( After all of those years, this series only gets better).
5.) Shingeki no Kyojin/ Attack on Titan (S01 & S02) (Continuing new series)
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| picture credit: Google image |
Date Watched: Mac 2014 (S01); Jun 2017 (S02)
Reason Why I Watched This:
I watch the first season of Attack on Titan on my final year as undergraduate (it was about 3 years ago) and been keeping an eye on the new season (whenever that may come). They finally releases the second second last April and even though I didn't jump that train much sooner - I did finished the series by the end of June 2017.
Memorable character: Eren Jaeger, Mikasa Ackerman, and Levi Ackerman
My Review:
Screaming... Yes, I remember it distinctly now. There's a lot of screaming involved, especially when I was watching the first season. I know, I sounded dumb to be screaming at an anime but, can you blame me? I was merely following the trend and hype without any knowledge of what I'm getting myself into. Sure, I had some idea about what this series is going to be and when I heard about the Titan - I thought to myself; "How bad can it be?". Well, newsflash - it's really, really bad. I think Imma puke just by thinking about it. Not only that the titans are BIG, they are also disgusting, man... Some anime fans might like that, but the image of Titans putting people into their mouth and popping their heads of is not what I want to remember for the rest of my life.
Okay, I know what you thinking... I'm really asking for it to be watching this series since its already been said in the title [which isn't a right translation btw, as the direct translation is actually 'The Attacking Titan' (source: Joey, TheAnimeMan; 2016)], but it's still brutal, man. The attack and killing, losing limbs, bloods splattered everywhere and those damn fugly Titans... It feel like what nightmares are made off... I remembered they made me scream so much that at one point, my dormitory neighbors had to check on me (I was living in alone back then) to see if I'm alright and haven't lost my marble yet. So, I told her I was watching this crazy anime about Titan's eating people, in which the reaction is just beyond disbelieve and well - she doesn't check upon me again after that. XD
Anyway, fast forward to 2017 - my interest on this anime is still going strong. I finished watching the 12 episodes in less than a week so there you go as a prove.
Rating: 4.20 / 5.0 ( I personally like the first season, but the second one is quite okay too).
6.) Masamune-kun no Revenge (New Series)
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| picture credit: Google image |
Date Watched: June 2017 - present
Reason Why I Watched This:
Okay, I have a little confession to make... I have a reason for re-watching at least two series on this list. Truth is, it wasn't because I really in the mood to revisit or trying to celebrate my 10th year anniversary with the series. Not really. Truth is.... I was actually too freakin' LAZY to find a new anime series. There, I said it, and here's another reason 'why'. I had abandoned at least two anime seasons (Fall 2016/Winter 2017) due to boring new anime adaptation and clash of interest (I was into other stuff, doing thesis, etc). Anyway, since I had missed out on so much; I finally opened my heart again for Spring 2017 & Summer 2017 list and guess what I found.... This anime above.
Memorable character: Masamune Makabe
My Review:
So, I did said earlier in my intro that I'm not gonna make this review like the previous two R-rated post I had produced, but boy.... This anime is really asking for it. Okay, I'll tried to put this nicely while still staying truthful. This anime... sucks. I know I should give a chance since I'm only half-way watching this series, but it does. It does sucks. Why you ask? Well, for one - the lead characters leave me feeling conflicted about watching the rest of the series. Didn't understand what I'm talking about? That's okay. Imma explain it to you....
For starter, I was first drawn to pick up the series because of this word - 'revenge'. Oh, how I love the possibility that can be offered alongside of that. It's what pinned my interest to this series at first and make it special in my eyes (or so I thought). This anime fall under romantic-comedy (rom-com) series. As you know, like any other rom-com out there; we usually have two main lead; a boy and a girl with a little/lot of comedic elements to it. But, this time it won't be just average kind of boy and girl... This series promised you a revenge by a former chubby-rich-boy, Masamune Makabe. He's the kind of lead who used to be fat and always get bullied by neighborhood kids. As for the girl, we got this rich-princess-type to deal with by the name of Aki Adagaki. Unlike our poor little male lead, she's beautiful, desirable and everybody wanted to hit on her like she's all that....
So what does these two kids have as a common factor you ask?
Well, both of their parents are rich, so that's one... Oh, and Masamune apparently have a crush on Aki when he was little and go as far to confess to her. However, holding up to that bit*hy and stuck up princess title so dearly in her heart - she rejected him as potential boyfriend/first love and told him that he's not really her type. Ouch... Not just that, she even generously created a nickname for him; 'Piggy' because of his appearance (talk about being shallow)... Anyway, several years passed by and that little piggy who used to cry on his way home had turned to be - quite a hottie. See where I'm going with this? I bet you also think the same way as I do. Like this is where the 'revenge' thing starts to happen, right? Well, that's seems to be the plan when Masamune make his second entrance as this handsome boy who looks as fit as a fiddle before revealing his ultimate plan which to seduce and destroy Aki. Ten points for the thought, bro! I'm glad homie gonna show her who's the boss now... Oh gosh, I was really rooting for this guy to succeed. Like hell yeah!
But then, the unthinkable happened....
He slowly falling in love with her - Again!!
Say what now BRO? You work so hard to get that hard rocking abs and beautiful body for years just to be sucked into this succubus grace? Again?? I mean come on Masamune.... Surely you can do better than that!
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| In case you're curious, this is how Piggy boy Masamune body looks like now. I know, awesome right?? His body is TOTALLY ripped. RIP baby fats. picture credit: Google image |
So yeah, I'm done ranting *I mean reviewing* about this anime. In case you are waiting for my personal rating, here's one below....
Rating: 2.5/5.0 (Too bad, even Masamune shiny abs couldn't save this sinking ship.)
7.) Yamishibai series (S01,02,03,04) (Continuing new series)
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| picture credit: Youtube |
Date Watched: Oct 2015-present
Reason Why I Watched This:
If you don't know me yet, Imma big fan of Japanese horror. Just check on my past post, you'll understand why....
Memorable character: None (Various Different Characters throughout the seasons)
My Review:
Like I said before, I'm always a huge fan of Japanese horror. Therefore, it hardly even a surprise when Yamishibai finally makes the cut into this list. I discovered this series back in 2014 and had been following the new releases closely ever since. So far, there's only five season being released (with the latest season still airing in Japan as this post is written) and as far as my reviewes goes for those past seasons; I think anyone who's involved in the project are killing it with their job and I can't stressed how much semi-heart attack this series was giving me at early seasons (S01-02) and making me on edge of my seat as I waited for something creepy starts to unfolds.
Anyway, since this series have over 50 episodes so far; I guess what would be a better thing to do besides selecting my favorite top 10 episodes and share it with you in here;
- "Zanbai"(S01E02) - an anagram from Japanese cheer word 'Banzai', this episode tells a story about a man who just recently released from a rural hospital after having an accident, and the fear of not able getting out from there alive.
- "The Family Rule"(S01E03) - Young boy Toshiharu and his parents just moved back to his maternal grandparents house. While he's waiting outside, his grandfather starts to explains a family ritual calls 'Calm Trough Smiling' (where adults have to pretend of smiling and laughing all night long) to cast the boy great-great grandfather evil spirits that feeds on negative emotions away. The question is, can the boy held in his curiosity together, or will the evil spirits triumph?
- "Contradiction"(S01E07) - Yuuko received a two different calls from her close friends, Mayumi and Tooru where they both telling about the same life-threatening events but with slight contradiction to their stories.... Who will she believe
- "Cursed"(S01E09) - A woman is desperate to find someone to remove a strange written curse which befell her daughter body. A visit to a priestess in a Shinto shrine seems to be given the two hope from being consumed by their ancestor family curse, but is everything truly over??
- "Video"(S01E11) - While trying to finished their homework, three middle school friends decides to take a break by watching a recorded videotape. Things gets a little bit dicey when the video starts showing them scene they didn't remember shooting. As they begin to look further... eerily figure begin to appear and staring directly at him. However, that wasn't the end of the story....
- "Tormentor"(S01E13) - Three friends decides to take a look at something they shouldn't. The results of that: highly uncomfortable.
- "Taro-chan"(S01E02) - A police officer who tries to give a presentation about road safety in ventriloquism using a doll named 'Taro-chan' gets more than he bargains for when the doll began to gain its own consciousness.
- "Inside"(S02E03) - Three friends decides to take a look at something they shouldn't. The results of that: highly uncomfortable.
- "Farewell Confessional"(S02E08) - A man go back to his family hometown to attend a funeral service. When he notice the absence of the priest and how mourners keep going one by one through the screen door, his aunt explain to him that the funeral that is held for the deceased is called 'Farewell Confessional', which means that the mourners tell the deceased something they couldn't when he/she is still alive so that their sins can be absolved. At lost of what to say after haven't meeting the deceased for a long time, the man told his secret. The real question is; will that be a smart move on his part?
- "Picking-up"(S02E11) - A college student pick up an abandoned novel manuscript in a train and intrigue by the story he read. Just before he return the manuscript, he noticed an amateur literature contest from price worth 3 000,000 million yen. He later enter the contest and won, but before receiving his prize; the question of the manuscript integrity is put to test. Will he admit the truth, or would he continuously lies for the sake of the prize?
Okay guys, so that's ten highly recommended episodes that I can give to you which all of it are my favorites. Be sure to check them out if you're interested in Japanese animation, alright?
Rating: 3.78/5.0 (some of them are pretty scary)
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| picture credit: google image |
Date Watched: July 2017-present
Reason Why I Watched This:
Desperately in need of new anime series and this come close to my own preference. Never even heard about this series before (I only read certain manga I like and doesn't keep up with the rest), but since I like yokai and intrigue with what sort of life that a human being can form with them; I was quite excited to watch this.
Memorable character: Inaba Yuushi (so far, because I'm only watching the 3rd episode)
My Review:
Okay, so I'm only about three episodes deep for this anime series, but I already can tell - it's gonna be a fun watch. Youkai Apartment brings a story about Inaba Yuushi, an orphan sixteen year old orphan who just recently moved out from his relative's house. Inaba is pretty independent and postive about his future, but when a fire destroyed his new dormitory; he's had to find another place to live. After a long-search, Inaba is left with two options; moved back to his uncle's house, or live in a suspicious apartment that he can rent at low price. Eventually, he decides to choose the latter and it doesn't take long for him to realize that the apartment building he rented, wasn't just only ordinary building. It's is an apartment filled with Youkai's (spirits)!! Given, Inaba is scared to his bone, but he find himself warming up to the tenant and other residence who are occupying the place.
Mind you, this to anime is still airing in Japan as I'm writing this and so far I only watched four episodes, but I can tell already - this anime is going to be great. I had a feeling that it's going to go down as a feel-good anime (like Natsume Yuujinchou) and I'm anticipating the new release every week. I don't know if I can spoil anything more about this anime, but I'm pretty sure at least two of the main characters (Inaba), have some sort of secret powers. Okay, that's it. That's all I'm telling you. If you're interested, go and check this anime yourself. I don't think that you'll be disappointed.
Rating: 4.02/ 5.00 (looking forward for a new episodes from this anime.)
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| picture credit: google image |
Date Watched: July 2017-present
Reason Why I Watched This:
I was searching for good romantic-comedy anime and this is one of the best one I could find from this (Summer) season.
Memorable character: -
My Review:
So, Love or Lies brings a story about a guy name Nisaka Yuusuke who falls in love with a girl name Misaki Takasaki. The only problem? He wasn't allowed too because she wasn't meant/assigned to be his fiance/wife. But why can't he when he's in love? Well, you see... in the place where this guy come from, a life partner for girl or guy who had turned 16 is assigned by the government. Why would they do this and let the youth runs free you ask? Well, for one thing, they needed to increase the nation birth rate and Yuusuke is no exception to this.
Sure, his birthday comes soon enough and now that he's sixteen; he's eligible for marriage. But Yuusuke already like somebody else and that's Misaki. I know, conflicted interest right? But our male protagonist doesn't care about that. Nope. He doesn't care for the slightest. Despite of feeling nervous and the severe penalties, he tells Misaki what he feels about her and unexpectedly - his feelings is also reciprocated by Misaki! Oh yeah... But here comes the one problem... Their government would never allows this to happen and sure enough, shortly after his birthday - they visited Yuusuke to reveal his future fiance. Ririna Sanada is the girl assigned to him and Yuusuke was conflicted...
Okay, so far that's the opening for this anime. Just like the anime above, this anime is also currenlt airing in Japan so there wasn't much going for me to tell. Personally, I think this anime have the potential to become my favorites although I still have around 8 more episodes before deciding.
Ratings: 3.87 /5.00 (I hope this one won't become a disappointment to me.)
10.) Kakegurui / Compulsive Gamblers (NEW)So, Love or Lies brings a story about a guy name Nisaka Yuusuke who falls in love with a girl name Misaki Takasaki. The only problem? He wasn't allowed too because she wasn't meant/assigned to be his fiance/wife. But why can't he when he's in love? Well, you see... in the place where this guy come from, a life partner for girl or guy who had turned 16 is assigned by the government. Why would they do this and let the youth runs free you ask? Well, for one thing, they needed to increase the nation birth rate and Yuusuke is no exception to this.
Sure, his birthday comes soon enough and now that he's sixteen; he's eligible for marriage. But Yuusuke already like somebody else and that's Misaki. I know, conflicted interest right? But our male protagonist doesn't care about that. Nope. He doesn't care for the slightest. Despite of feeling nervous and the severe penalties, he tells Misaki what he feels about her and unexpectedly - his feelings is also reciprocated by Misaki! Oh yeah... But here comes the one problem... Their government would never allows this to happen and sure enough, shortly after his birthday - they visited Yuusuke to reveal his future fiance. Ririna Sanada is the girl assigned to him and Yuusuke was conflicted...
Okay, so far that's the opening for this anime. Just like the anime above, this anime is also currenlt airing in Japan so there wasn't much going for me to tell. Personally, I think this anime have the potential to become my favorites although I still have around 8 more episodes before deciding.
Ratings: 3.87 /5.00 (I hope this one won't become a disappointment to me.)
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| picture credit: google image |
Date Watched: July 2017-present
Reason Why I Watched This:
A fellow Youtuber made a video that introduces this series and I can't help but thinking it could an interesting watch.
Memorable character: Yumeko Jabami (the long-haired girl above).
My Review:
So, Kakegurui is an anime that sets in a highschool where gambling is not an illegal activity. You want to win a huge chunk of money? Gamble then. Want to increase you social status at school? Gamble some more. You want to snatched someone else position at school? Gamble is the way to go. Want someone to lick on your shoes or make them your PET? GAMBLE ON!!! In this school, there seems to be nothing that can't be solved without gambling involves.
As the school and students are dragged with unfairness of the rules and losing money left and right, the arrival of transfer student by the name of Jabami Yumeko is about to make the school interesting again. Unlike other students who's careful before selecting their opponents, Yumeko can be considered as pretty reckless. She wasn't too stressful about the possibility of losing money as long as she could gamble (that's compulsive, right there). Anyway, so what makes this anime as interesting watch is not because you want to see who's winning the bet, but to see the consequences of that. Luck plays a heavy interchangeable role in this anime and nobody is really considered as safe (even Yumeko, the leading lady). Take the first two episodes from example... She might've win in the 1st episode, but by 2nd - she already lost a lot more than she gained. And she's the main lead in this series!! That's just one of perfect crazy example when I say nobody is safe...
So far I had only watched 4 episodes because Kakegurui is still airing in Japan. Just like the other two anime's I had picked up for this season, I'm also satisfied with this one and looking forward the new episode release so I could complete this series.
Rating: 3.98 / 5.00 (Jabami, why are you so sexy?)
Okay, I guess that's it guys... That's all the time I had in this anime crossed-off list for the half of 2017. I don't think I would make a part 4 of this (because lack of time), but we'll never know.... So, Thank you for reading this entry and I hope to see you soon. Jya-nee and have a nice day. ;)
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