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nathandbyrd
Reviews
15 Bishoujo Hyouryuuki (2009)
A cultural masterpieces that will live throughout the ages
Within the realm of '15 Bishoujo Hyouryuuki,' viewers are treated to a captivating blend of visual splendor, masterful sound design, compelling characters, and an intricately crafted world. The animation sweeps audiences into a breathtaking journey, seamlessly merging vibrant landscapes with meticulously designed character movements, creating an artistic canvas in every frame. The sound design resonates deeply, enhancing the emotional depth of each scene and complementing the visuals with a perfectly matched soundtrack.
The characters within this narrative are masterfully portrayed, revealing layers of complexity that gradually unfold throughout the series. Each character feels remarkably genuine, allowing their trials and emotions to resonate profoundly with the audience. The representation of romance in this anime is not merely a narrative element but a central pillar of the storyline. It's a poignant portrayal of love's complexities, evoking a range of emotions from sheer bliss to heartfelt sorrow.
Additionally, '15 Bishoujo Hyouryuuki' shines in its world-building, constructing a universe so immersive that viewers become wholly engrossed. The meticulous attention to detail in both the minute aspects and expansive landscapes adds depth and richness to an already compelling story.
In summary, '15 Bishoujo Hyouryuuki' stands as a testament to the artistic prowess of anime. Its stunning animation, meticulous sound design, rich character development, and immersive world-building elevate it to a level of excellence within the realm of romance-driven narratives.
The Owl House (2020)
An excellent adventure that I can't wait to see more of!
So, I just finished the first season of The Owl House and I just am at a complete loss of words (as I say continuing writing this paragraph). I had heard about TOH plenty of times, from my friends, and just general people online who would talk about how great the show is. Going into it, I was kinda hesitant since I don't really get out of my comfort zone to explore new movies and shows too often, I stick to what I find familiar. And while there is a lot here that has been repeated from previous shows, that is, very familiar characters, themes, and humor, the way it's able to so effortlessly combine all tropes with new, exciting adventures, it's some innovation in a kids cartoon I haven't seen since other shows like Gravity Falls and Star vs The Forces of Evil.
It's important to bring them up because a LOT of this show resonates a similar style to both its predecessors. Most of this can be attributed to Alex Hirsch and the entire OH team, and it's obvious where Alex himself, as a creative consultant of the show, had his input. While it can be noticeable, I wouldn't say it's distracting. I had a few moments watching where I was like "Oh, that's Alex's voice," or "Yup, that joke feels straight out of Gravity Falls." But once again, the show runs with this formula and does an excellent job adding its own personification to it.
The characters I think are what make the show. A lot of the lore in terms of magic and witches. It's kinda the same old stuff we've seen before, but done in a way that's unique and works with what the show hopes to and is accomplishing. The smallest of side characters just breathe so much life into the show and its many intricacies. The show is light-hearted, and it knows that, but sometimes it ventures off into more serious episodes and storylines. But despite the cliches, it's just done so well and with so much heart put into it that I hadn't even noticed I was nearing the end of the season because I was so caught up in the show's episodic endeavors. Much like GFs, it remains episodic with an underlying story, and it's done very well.
Another thing I love about this show is the diversity and representation. Look, I'm not someone who watches movies or TV and is like "This is amazing, but I wish there was more diversity, 0/10." But I really do love the diversity this show has. Luz, the main character. Is hispanic and speaks spanish throughout several points in the show, and it's so neat to see her relationship with her mother. They don't use her being hispanic to make up for lack of character, because man, is she overbrewing with an excellent, cheerful personality. Rather, it's just another thing about her that makes her who she is and the emotional moments with her mom, those always get me right in the heart. Gus, an African American character, too is a great addition to the Owl House's already wonderful cast of likeable characters. But I think the biggest elephant in the room is the representation this show gives LGBTQ+. I hate when creators make characters LGBTQ+ just because they can and that's all their character is (cough, Netflix, cough). However, TOH doesn't do this, and makes the gay romance between two female leads feel very organic, natural, and, well, earned. They do a great job treating every one of the characters equally, and never once did I feel certain characters lacked depth.
Any complaints? Well, not really. My one nitpick would have to be some of the plots, and how characters will make mistakes and it doesn't really feel like they've truly apologized, even if they make up for the mistake.
In conclusion, I was very satisfied with the show's first season and can't wait to start binging what's currently out for its 2nd season. Probably tomorrow though, I'm really freaking tired.