Hey guys, I've notice that I've been spending more and more time on the anime synopsis's and I wish to actually blog a lot of them. It seems that I spend most of my time trying to give a specific synopses. Sorry to whoever actually enjoys them, I'm going to refrain from doing so because it makes my blog posts long, and its also time consuming. I'd rather spend the 2 hours from writing the specifics out to adding probably about 3-4 extra discussions on other animes instead. Rather what I'll do in the future is just analyze specific parts and discuss about them.
Side note: (Yes I know giving a specific synopsis is something as a nono to most bloggers, but I like to do it to keep it memorable in my mind ^^)
Sunday 24 November 2013
Saturday 23 November 2013
Golden Time - 8
I don't know why but I gotta admit I like to blog about Golden Time first than White Album. I find that Golden Time sparks my interest far more with its drama intensive execution. Its always constant too but the case of White album I feel like its a huge build up towards a huge climax at the end. I guess its just personal preference lol. Anyways this episode there was A HUGE LOAD of information to take in. Wow, was I surprised with the amount of the things that happened in this episode!
Sidenote: Please do note, you don't have to read any of the Synopsis in any of the blogs I've posted - these are for myself to serve as a memory of how enjoyable the anime was for me - and time I spent to etch everything into my head ^^. My discussion starts at 'thoughts at the bottom'
Golden Time 8 Synopsis & Thoughts (may contain spoilers)
The anime starts off with a flashback into one of Banri's highschool days about Linda. Banri's waiting for Linda in front of school after club activities. Hes wondering why shes late. He goes to the club house to find her. At the club house girls are teasing Linda about the closeness of Linda and Banri. Linda clearly denies all allegations that she has nothing lovey-dovey whiling saying she does not like Banri. To her surprise while leaving, Banri ends up listening to the whole conversation. Banri runs away when she meets her face to face and she tries to stop him. Next day at school she tries to confront Banri to talk about it but he runs away again. She tries multiply times and fails as Banri keeps avoiding her. One day it rains, Linda is soaked waiting for Banri at the entrance of the school. She starts to cry and apologizes to Banri, saying "Its actually the opposite, I'm stupid please forgive me". Banri finally comes out of his shell and says "he doesn't like her either and its fine". Banri's old self says that maybe things would have been different if their feelings were "opposite of what they really felt". In the end, they're seen walking home together.
Next scene, back to the present of where we left off in episode 7. Kouko is on the phone with Banri talking about Mitsuo's problem. She convinces Banri to go see him because if she goes into another guy's house alone as its considered 'cheating'. On the other side, Banri's hesitating because shes alone with Linda behind "closed doors". LOL. Linda leaves his house while his old self is reminiscing that he still "loves Linda" while this Banri does not. The "new" Banri puts away the photo of him and Linda's pictures on the shelf he gets ready to go out to find Mitsuo.
Banri's walking to find Mitsuo's house using his GPS. When he arrives he sees Mitsuo is having problems with an a girl. Mitsuo doesn't want to let the girl into his place but she insists she wants to cook and stay over. Suddenly Banri comes up putting on an act of a relationship with Mitsuo using exmaples like "my boyfriend" and "I love you" LOL. Imitating a lot of references that Kouko uses they were able to scare off who appears to be "Reina-senpai" from the filming club. Mitsuo continues to complain that Reina-senpai is trying to throw herself onto him. While as they enters his messy place, Banri asks about his problems with Chinami. He explains in his flashback at college where he met up with Chinami and told her that she shouldn't talk to him again because everyone knew about his rejection at the film party. At the same time Kouko's there and sees what happens and Mitsuo ends up running away because hes embarrassed that everyone's talking about him and his rejection. Back in his room, Banri comforts Mitsuo as he takes out Kouko's mirror and says hes "handsome, and confident" and that he wants to cheer him up as how Linda-Senpai did. He calls 2d-kun and says that he wants to throw a party.
At an amusement park entrance, Kouko and 2d-kun meet up with Mitsuo and Banri. Kouko teases Banri saying hes late but shes happy to see him. While 2d-kun jokingly imitates Kouko. Kouko ends up arguing with Mitsuo but is interrupted by a phone call from Chinami. Kouko grabs the phone and tells Chinami to come although she doesn't like her. Kouko tells Mitsuo if hes going to leave or stay.
Kouko and Banri are waiting at a train station for Chinami to join with the rest of the group. Kouko's complaining how it would of been best if it was just the two of them. Chinami arrives and Kouko seems pissed off. Chinami begins to say how she's surprised that she's been asked out as Mitsuo was there. She brought "noodles" showing how "flustered" she is. Kouko suddenly blows up and says how she doesn't want her to come, etc etc. However, Kouko starts to argue about how she better not hurt Mitsuo again. Chinami argues back saying why how she should just worry about she already has - Banri and whats between her and Mitsuo is her own business. She then drops her bag after asking for her noodles back. She takes out her camera hoping its not broken. She says that "she knows how it feels to be rejected as Mitsuo said she never wants to talk to her again. She then breaks up the bad situation and tension between her and Kouko by playing it 'stupid' with noodles stuck on her head while Banri is filming.
At the amusement park they go through rides like the roller coaster and haunted house. They end up going go-karting and riding the merry go around. At the merry go around Banri wonders if Mitsuo and Chinami made up while Kouko says that she should only look at her and holds his face.
At Banri's place they begin their party. They all make a pact "if they go out to drink or party the whole group should go". They all end up agreeing with a team stand handshake.
At night its 3:07 AM and Banri wakes up while everyone is sleeping. He suddenly texts Linda too see if she is awake. They end up meeting up at the balcony. DRAMA GETS ON! Banri asks if she was awake the whole time, replied as a yes from the noise. She explains that its funny how she was just thinking about him in the past. She goes on to explain that during trips in high school he would often go to the girls tents and look for her because he couldn't sleep. He laughs it off saying its probably something perverted and that he probably used to loved her as his old self and wanted to watch her sleep(Pretty disturbing lol?). Linda goes on saying how things could be toxic like their encounter if they left emotions waiting and built up. Banri continues as he wants to ask what the confession would have been. Linda answers "no" with her head down saying that she couldn't see him as a romantic partner. Banri then says something weird, "wouldn't you want to go back to then?" and then yells out "I WANT TO GO BACK!". He notices he said something weird the with confusion he asks what he said. Linda goes on saying he fell asleep and that its late that he should go to sleep. The "ghost" Banri comes out and says that he still loves Linda and if he sticks to Banri he'll "disappear".
Thoughts
Wow is this week's episode is amazing or what. For me, this weeks episode was totally more exciting than last weeks! A few things I want to mention before I start on discussing what happened in this weeks episode. I really love how they executed it. To split up between Banri x Lindas part in the beginning and then the end with a dissatisfied taste in the tongue about them! So far the main stories still in the middle of the anime but certainly the side drama of Banri and Linda has really gotten me worked up! I really thought it was the end of their drama last episode but it just keeps coming back lol! I really want to thank people on the forums at Myanimelist as I read their forum posts they led to analyze more about each character's personality and feelings.
1) The first thing I want to talk about is Banri and Linda. Again and again people are still raising the question whether the confession about Linda or Banri was a complete rejection or a 'yes'. I want to clarify this that in my past blogs I've always been leaning towards the confession about Linda saying yes. Absolutely this week's episode has certainly proved my point about them and now I am certain with a high possibility that the confession was a 'Yes'. Heres the reasons, this weeks episode opened up again to Banri's past, about their relationship in school. Yes there seems to be a misunderstanding between them when Banri overheard what Linda said about not liking him in front of all the girls in the club house. People also raised a lot of dislike for Banri because he ran away and kept avoiding Linda. Yes, its okay to dislike Banri for what he's done but every person is flawed. For Banri and Linda they've become somewhat non lovers - close to lovers but yet best friends. So to speak, his treatment towards this status can be justified because they both always hung out together from what I've got from the anime. Because of this, its highly unlikely that they had relationships with other people, love- wise. Hence, they have no experience in dealing with situations where they are faced with when someone confesses or loves each other. Yes, certainly Banri dealt with it badly, avoiding his best/lover/not yet lover friend but in my perspective this is what happens in youth, and in high school when you don't have experience. If I was confronted in a situation where its messy, the girl might like me but says that in front of everyone I'd definitely run if I was just a teenager. Hence, what's not to like about Banri, people are flawed and this is what makes characters in anime so favorable and interesting. However, I want to justify why that confession was a yes. In the end of the flashback, they both agreed they don't like each other but clearly Linda says "Its actually the opposite", certainly Banri loves this girl back then because of his graduation confession. Lastly, at the end of the episode Linda explains to Banri what the confession was. She said no right? However, this is animated so nicely in the anime I have to give a lot of props to. In the anime when she says "no"; look at her face. She's looking down and it seems like she's forcing herself to say no. When someone who can't look another person in the "eyes" you can't see the truth. This also proves that she's lying about her feelings and it's probably because she doesn't want things to get messy for Kouko and him. Clearly these three evidence provides us with enough to say that they actually had a thing going on and the confession is a 'yes'.
2) I wanted to talk about is their personality/feelings. It seems that this episode has developed more of Banri and Linda's personalities. Their unrequited love and lies/hidden feelings all tell us about why they act so indecisively in stressful situations such as confessions. It really tells us that's how they dealt with it although they know that each of their feelings were mutual(love-love). Now, we still see it in the college years how indecisiveness plays a factor and like they were before(i.e Banri running away, Linda having a hard time explaining and apologizing still happens). Personalities don't change much and this is what makes these two characters so favorable and likable in my opinion. Speaking about feelings, it seems that Linda's definitely still in-love with Banri but probably she's willing to let it go for his sake (unrequited love) because of Kouko. What I really want to address is the insane last minute thing about Banri! Holy COW his other split personality just comes out when he is asleep?! When he said he really wanted to "go back to the past". His ghost taking over his body...? That's some next level drama going on.
3) I also wanted to address Kouko and I also had some suspicion about her whether she still likes Mitsuo. Indeed, a lot of fans also raised some questions whether shes really 'bad' or has that 'bad intentions' with her(i.e still planning to still get closer to Mitsuo). The reason I had some suspicion about her was because she was still caught up about Mitsuo at the train station. When Chinami came she clearly argued with her, telling her not to hurt Mitsuo ever again. Then Chinami tells her why would she care? She's got Banri and she should cherish what she has. This part is what makes people suspicious of her. It would have probably made me suspicious too because its true, why would she still care about Mitsuo if she has Banri? However, thats not the point here. Remember when Kouko confessed to Banri at the police station. She says she doesn't have the confidence, doesn't have friends etc etc. That's mainly the reason why she doesn't like Chinami and said that about Mitsuo. She really wanted to beat Chinami as a 'rival' not that she has still has feelings for Mitsuo. Furthermore, she states as she stuffs Chinami's face with noodles "I'm only allowed to cry infront of Banri" really says this because she believes that if Chinami cries, certainly Banri's sympathy will be towards her and making her feel like she's lost. This scene really describes Kouko... Especially her personality... In-secured spoiled, jealous, envious, and very dependent on her partner. It isn't necessary a bad thing but those types of attributes/personality usually get hurt the most in a relationship..! Lastly, we kinda know that Chinami's got a thing for Mitsuo and it's a clear misunderstanding about the rejections since one of them doesn't feel like its a formal one.
In conclusion, I also wanted to address next week's episode. HOLY COW. When I re-watched the episode, holy I saw some of next week's episode and it does look intense... I mean it looks like things are already going downhill for Kouko and Banri... and I have a feeling its about that balcony talk with Linda x Banri. I bet you she overheard it since he did scream! But that's just an assumption so I could possibly be wrong! However, this week's episode did really exceed my expectations. Because of it's drama, plot, and execution (Banri x Linda at the beginning and end, main plot in the middle) really fit how it should have played out (the drama). I'd give this week's episode a 10/10. It was extremely over the top, interest peaking for me. I hope you guys enjoy this and if you have any questions post a comment!
Sidenote: Please do note, you don't have to read any of the Synopsis in any of the blogs I've posted - these are for myself to serve as a memory of how enjoyable the anime was for me - and time I spent to etch everything into my head ^^. My discussion starts at 'thoughts at the bottom'
Golden Time 8 Synopsis & Thoughts (may contain spoilers)
The anime starts off with a flashback into one of Banri's highschool days about Linda. Banri's waiting for Linda in front of school after club activities. Hes wondering why shes late. He goes to the club house to find her. At the club house girls are teasing Linda about the closeness of Linda and Banri. Linda clearly denies all allegations that she has nothing lovey-dovey whiling saying she does not like Banri. To her surprise while leaving, Banri ends up listening to the whole conversation. Banri runs away when she meets her face to face and she tries to stop him. Next day at school she tries to confront Banri to talk about it but he runs away again. She tries multiply times and fails as Banri keeps avoiding her. One day it rains, Linda is soaked waiting for Banri at the entrance of the school. She starts to cry and apologizes to Banri, saying "Its actually the opposite, I'm stupid please forgive me". Banri finally comes out of his shell and says "he doesn't like her either and its fine". Banri's old self says that maybe things would have been different if their feelings were "opposite of what they really felt". In the end, they're seen walking home together.
Next scene, back to the present of where we left off in episode 7. Kouko is on the phone with Banri talking about Mitsuo's problem. She convinces Banri to go see him because if she goes into another guy's house alone as its considered 'cheating'. On the other side, Banri's hesitating because shes alone with Linda behind "closed doors". LOL. Linda leaves his house while his old self is reminiscing that he still "loves Linda" while this Banri does not. The "new" Banri puts away the photo of him and Linda's pictures on the shelf he gets ready to go out to find Mitsuo.
At an amusement park entrance, Kouko and 2d-kun meet up with Mitsuo and Banri. Kouko teases Banri saying hes late but shes happy to see him. While 2d-kun jokingly imitates Kouko. Kouko ends up arguing with Mitsuo but is interrupted by a phone call from Chinami. Kouko grabs the phone and tells Chinami to come although she doesn't like her. Kouko tells Mitsuo if hes going to leave or stay.
Kouko and Banri are waiting at a train station for Chinami to join with the rest of the group. Kouko's complaining how it would of been best if it was just the two of them. Chinami arrives and Kouko seems pissed off. Chinami begins to say how she's surprised that she's been asked out as Mitsuo was there. She brought "noodles" showing how "flustered" she is. Kouko suddenly blows up and says how she doesn't want her to come, etc etc. However, Kouko starts to argue about how she better not hurt Mitsuo again. Chinami argues back saying why how she should just worry about she already has - Banri and whats between her and Mitsuo is her own business. She then drops her bag after asking for her noodles back. She takes out her camera hoping its not broken. She says that "she knows how it feels to be rejected as Mitsuo said she never wants to talk to her again. She then breaks up the bad situation and tension between her and Kouko by playing it 'stupid' with noodles stuck on her head while Banri is filming.
At the amusement park they go through rides like the roller coaster and haunted house. They end up going go-karting and riding the merry go around. At the merry go around Banri wonders if Mitsuo and Chinami made up while Kouko says that she should only look at her and holds his face.
At Banri's place they begin their party. They all make a pact "if they go out to drink or party the whole group should go". They all end up agreeing with a team stand handshake.
Thoughts
Wow is this week's episode is amazing or what. For me, this weeks episode was totally more exciting than last weeks! A few things I want to mention before I start on discussing what happened in this weeks episode. I really love how they executed it. To split up between Banri x Lindas part in the beginning and then the end with a dissatisfied taste in the tongue about them! So far the main stories still in the middle of the anime but certainly the side drama of Banri and Linda has really gotten me worked up! I really thought it was the end of their drama last episode but it just keeps coming back lol! I really want to thank people on the forums at Myanimelist as I read their forum posts they led to analyze more about each character's personality and feelings.
1) The first thing I want to talk about is Banri and Linda. Again and again people are still raising the question whether the confession about Linda or Banri was a complete rejection or a 'yes'. I want to clarify this that in my past blogs I've always been leaning towards the confession about Linda saying yes. Absolutely this week's episode has certainly proved my point about them and now I am certain with a high possibility that the confession was a 'Yes'. Heres the reasons, this weeks episode opened up again to Banri's past, about their relationship in school. Yes there seems to be a misunderstanding between them when Banri overheard what Linda said about not liking him in front of all the girls in the club house. People also raised a lot of dislike for Banri because he ran away and kept avoiding Linda. Yes, its okay to dislike Banri for what he's done but every person is flawed. For Banri and Linda they've become somewhat non lovers - close to lovers but yet best friends. So to speak, his treatment towards this status can be justified because they both always hung out together from what I've got from the anime. Because of this, its highly unlikely that they had relationships with other people, love- wise. Hence, they have no experience in dealing with situations where they are faced with when someone confesses or loves each other. Yes, certainly Banri dealt with it badly, avoiding his best/lover/not yet lover friend but in my perspective this is what happens in youth, and in high school when you don't have experience. If I was confronted in a situation where its messy, the girl might like me but says that in front of everyone I'd definitely run if I was just a teenager. Hence, what's not to like about Banri, people are flawed and this is what makes characters in anime so favorable and interesting. However, I want to justify why that confession was a yes. In the end of the flashback, they both agreed they don't like each other but clearly Linda says "Its actually the opposite", certainly Banri loves this girl back then because of his graduation confession. Lastly, at the end of the episode Linda explains to Banri what the confession was. She said no right? However, this is animated so nicely in the anime I have to give a lot of props to. In the anime when she says "no"; look at her face. She's looking down and it seems like she's forcing herself to say no. When someone who can't look another person in the "eyes" you can't see the truth. This also proves that she's lying about her feelings and it's probably because she doesn't want things to get messy for Kouko and him. Clearly these three evidence provides us with enough to say that they actually had a thing going on and the confession is a 'yes'.
2) I wanted to talk about is their personality/feelings. It seems that this episode has developed more of Banri and Linda's personalities. Their unrequited love and lies/hidden feelings all tell us about why they act so indecisively in stressful situations such as confessions. It really tells us that's how they dealt with it although they know that each of their feelings were mutual(love-love). Now, we still see it in the college years how indecisiveness plays a factor and like they were before(i.e Banri running away, Linda having a hard time explaining and apologizing still happens). Personalities don't change much and this is what makes these two characters so favorable and likable in my opinion. Speaking about feelings, it seems that Linda's definitely still in-love with Banri but probably she's willing to let it go for his sake (unrequited love) because of Kouko. What I really want to address is the insane last minute thing about Banri! Holy COW his other split personality just comes out when he is asleep?! When he said he really wanted to "go back to the past". His ghost taking over his body...? That's some next level drama going on.
3) I also wanted to address Kouko and I also had some suspicion about her whether she still likes Mitsuo. Indeed, a lot of fans also raised some questions whether shes really 'bad' or has that 'bad intentions' with her(i.e still planning to still get closer to Mitsuo). The reason I had some suspicion about her was because she was still caught up about Mitsuo at the train station. When Chinami came she clearly argued with her, telling her not to hurt Mitsuo ever again. Then Chinami tells her why would she care? She's got Banri and she should cherish what she has. This part is what makes people suspicious of her. It would have probably made me suspicious too because its true, why would she still care about Mitsuo if she has Banri? However, thats not the point here. Remember when Kouko confessed to Banri at the police station. She says she doesn't have the confidence, doesn't have friends etc etc. That's mainly the reason why she doesn't like Chinami and said that about Mitsuo. She really wanted to beat Chinami as a 'rival' not that she has still has feelings for Mitsuo. Furthermore, she states as she stuffs Chinami's face with noodles "I'm only allowed to cry infront of Banri" really says this because she believes that if Chinami cries, certainly Banri's sympathy will be towards her and making her feel like she's lost. This scene really describes Kouko... Especially her personality... In-secured spoiled, jealous, envious, and very dependent on her partner. It isn't necessary a bad thing but those types of attributes/personality usually get hurt the most in a relationship..! Lastly, we kinda know that Chinami's got a thing for Mitsuo and it's a clear misunderstanding about the rejections since one of them doesn't feel like its a formal one.
In conclusion, I also wanted to address next week's episode. HOLY COW. When I re-watched the episode, holy I saw some of next week's episode and it does look intense... I mean it looks like things are already going downhill for Kouko and Banri... and I have a feeling its about that balcony talk with Linda x Banri. I bet you she overheard it since he did scream! But that's just an assumption so I could possibly be wrong! However, this week's episode did really exceed my expectations. Because of it's drama, plot, and execution (Banri x Linda at the beginning and end, main plot in the middle) really fit how it should have played out (the drama). I'd give this week's episode a 10/10. It was extremely over the top, interest peaking for me. I hope you guys enjoy this and if you have any questions post a comment!
Monday 18 November 2013
Sword Art Online Closing Captions and Thoughts
I've been meaning/wanting to do a Sword Art Online review since it was my favorite and was considered one of the most popular and anticipated anime in 2012. I considered it one of the more enjoyable animes in 2012. I am very much into fantasy as to Romance/comedy/slice of life animes. So don't worry guys I will cover other animes other than romance ones.
Side note: This post will not be a synopsis like other blogs, rather it'll be a closing caption about the whole anime and what I thought about it. Although I will give a general synopsis like I did for True Tears in the beginning. Also, I haven't read any of the manga or the light novels so this a from a perspective where I haven't experienced original works.
Synopsis:
In 2022, a new development of surfing the net was created called "nerve gear" It allows the user who uses it to be put into a sleep mode while their minds surf into an alternate reality. Sword Art Online created by Kayaba Akihiko, is one of many MMORPGS that is released. It becomes one of the most anticipated virtual reality game that consists of massive amounts of players to begin a quest to beat the 100 floors of the tower. The main character Kirito (Kirigaya Kazuto) logs in his first time after playing the beta version of Sword Art Online. Soon, the community is devastated as no one is able to log out... Dying in the game also meant death in real life... What will happen to Kirito as he journey's through the levels of the game?
Closing Caption & Thoughts (May contain spoilers)
This anime started out really great. When I first watched Hack//sign I really loved the concept of virtual reality games that players couldn't log out. It was then the "journeys of fantasy games" made me so enticed at anime genres like this.
Characters:
They were very nicely developed throughout the game. Kirito had a nice growth of development learning to deal with pain, loss, love, isolation, and kindness. His development throughout the whole anime was very nicely executed, nothing too flawed about his character. I'd say it didn't really make anyone hate him.
Asuna, she didn't appear as much as I anticipated because I originally thought that she was going to be the girl who quests with Kirito, rather than someone Kirito has to save. (but then that would have had been a boring plot if all they did was quest together lol). Although, I really do love how they paced her relationship growth with Kirito as it was nicely done in the Sword Art Online Arc, the viewers such as myself was really able to put ourselves, subjectively into the anime and feel those two connecting really well (those kiss scenes with Asuna x Kirito aww *Tears*). On the side note, supporting characters seem to have lacked in this anime. I mean quite a lot actually. People like Klein, Andrew Mills, etc. People like them should have been a bit more written about rather than just showing up and saying a couple lines and then never appearing until couple episodes later. I think its possible to say that its because of how they paced it. Having 1 cour per an arc isn't sufficient enough to draw out the whole story in my opinion, having 2 cours to talk about the SAO arc and 1 cour to talk about the Elfheim Arc would have been ideal.
Plot:
The plot in this anime genre wasn't so bad as many would say actually. Yes, its an adaptation so you'd probably expect some flaws here and there. Things like plot holes are expected since it is never the original art, but it isn't to the point where the story line is so bad and illogical. However, I feel like the pacing may have been a little fast even if I haven't read the light novel. Things like how he levels up, fight monsters should have been explained instead of some hack and slash moments. Overall the flow of the anime was pretty well, except the pacing, it should have spent bit more time in explaining the details of the world.
Animation/Graphics:
The animation was not too bad. In my opinion the art work was actually fantastic. Although it isn't something above expectation. It is worthy of saying its on expectation. If I were to rewatch this 5 years from now, I'd probably be able watch it. The production does seem to have put quite a bit of work into the environment of the SAO world. For example, the floor that was full of flowers, that was a beautiful site, and also when the world crumbles at episode 14, it was also very beautifully animated.
Sounds/Music:
The background music, sounds all fit into the animation. Especially when executing parts where there needs to be background music. Moments that need to express sadness/happiness such as Kirito almost dying on floor 74 by soloing the floor boss, or in the earlier episodes where the group of 4 died when Kirito entered a inescapable treasure room. Overall I'd say that the sounds/music were on par with expectation but not something above expectation because the genre doesn't target music/sounds but simply fit with the animation.
Overall thoughts:
Overall, I think that this anime MAY have been a little over-hyped in 2012, I absolutely can't say its the best animation overall, but I can say it is one of the best in 2012, probably topping the top 5 of that year. It maybe over hyped but it's still loved! I still enjoyed the characters and the whole genre of fantasy, survival, love, and romance of this anime. Whenever, and wherever I can get my hands on fantasy type anime I usually go through them like mad and crazy, and to my experience SAO is actually one of the betters ones. I could give a few that lacked in a lot of plot/flaws/character development. In the end I would definitely rate this anime a high 7 to 8, mostly likely an 8 out of 10 because I enjoy genres like fantasy/romance.
Side note: This post will not be a synopsis like other blogs, rather it'll be a closing caption about the whole anime and what I thought about it. Although I will give a general synopsis like I did for True Tears in the beginning. Also, I haven't read any of the manga or the light novels so this a from a perspective where I haven't experienced original works.
Synopsis:
In 2022, a new development of surfing the net was created called "nerve gear" It allows the user who uses it to be put into a sleep mode while their minds surf into an alternate reality. Sword Art Online created by Kayaba Akihiko, is one of many MMORPGS that is released. It becomes one of the most anticipated virtual reality game that consists of massive amounts of players to begin a quest to beat the 100 floors of the tower. The main character Kirito (Kirigaya Kazuto) logs in his first time after playing the beta version of Sword Art Online. Soon, the community is devastated as no one is able to log out... Dying in the game also meant death in real life... What will happen to Kirito as he journey's through the levels of the game?
Closing Caption & Thoughts (May contain spoilers)
This anime started out really great. When I first watched Hack//sign I really loved the concept of virtual reality games that players couldn't log out. It was then the "journeys of fantasy games" made me so enticed at anime genres like this.
Characters:
They were very nicely developed throughout the game. Kirito had a nice growth of development learning to deal with pain, loss, love, isolation, and kindness. His development throughout the whole anime was very nicely executed, nothing too flawed about his character. I'd say it didn't really make anyone hate him.
Asuna, she didn't appear as much as I anticipated because I originally thought that she was going to be the girl who quests with Kirito, rather than someone Kirito has to save. (but then that would have had been a boring plot if all they did was quest together lol). Although, I really do love how they paced her relationship growth with Kirito as it was nicely done in the Sword Art Online Arc, the viewers such as myself was really able to put ourselves, subjectively into the anime and feel those two connecting really well (those kiss scenes with Asuna x Kirito aww *Tears*). On the side note, supporting characters seem to have lacked in this anime. I mean quite a lot actually. People like Klein, Andrew Mills, etc. People like them should have been a bit more written about rather than just showing up and saying a couple lines and then never appearing until couple episodes later. I think its possible to say that its because of how they paced it. Having 1 cour per an arc isn't sufficient enough to draw out the whole story in my opinion, having 2 cours to talk about the SAO arc and 1 cour to talk about the Elfheim Arc would have been ideal.
Plot:
The plot in this anime genre wasn't so bad as many would say actually. Yes, its an adaptation so you'd probably expect some flaws here and there. Things like plot holes are expected since it is never the original art, but it isn't to the point where the story line is so bad and illogical. However, I feel like the pacing may have been a little fast even if I haven't read the light novel. Things like how he levels up, fight monsters should have been explained instead of some hack and slash moments. Overall the flow of the anime was pretty well, except the pacing, it should have spent bit more time in explaining the details of the world.
Animation/Graphics:
The animation was not too bad. In my opinion the art work was actually fantastic. Although it isn't something above expectation. It is worthy of saying its on expectation. If I were to rewatch this 5 years from now, I'd probably be able watch it. The production does seem to have put quite a bit of work into the environment of the SAO world. For example, the floor that was full of flowers, that was a beautiful site, and also when the world crumbles at episode 14, it was also very beautifully animated.
Sounds/Music:
The background music, sounds all fit into the animation. Especially when executing parts where there needs to be background music. Moments that need to express sadness/happiness such as Kirito almost dying on floor 74 by soloing the floor boss, or in the earlier episodes where the group of 4 died when Kirito entered a inescapable treasure room. Overall I'd say that the sounds/music were on par with expectation but not something above expectation because the genre doesn't target music/sounds but simply fit with the animation.
Overall thoughts:
Overall, I think that this anime MAY have been a little over-hyped in 2012, I absolutely can't say its the best animation overall, but I can say it is one of the best in 2012, probably topping the top 5 of that year. It maybe over hyped but it's still loved! I still enjoyed the characters and the whole genre of fantasy, survival, love, and romance of this anime. Whenever, and wherever I can get my hands on fantasy type anime I usually go through them like mad and crazy, and to my experience SAO is actually one of the betters ones. I could give a few that lacked in a lot of plot/flaws/character development. In the end I would definitely rate this anime a high 7 to 8, mostly likely an 8 out of 10 because I enjoy genres like fantasy/romance.
Sunday 17 November 2013
White Album 2 Episode 6
This is the first time I'm going to be reviewing White Album 2. I wanted to place a review before the next episode comes in from the weekend. I'm going to be skipping the first 5 episodes. However, if you enjoy intense love triangle/romance/drama/comedy I highly suggest that you catch up onto this series because it reflects a lot of the viewer's own subjective experience of love, pain, and romance in high school. All I have to say is its VERY NAIL BITING!!!!! XD
Side note: To people who don't know about White Album 2. If you want to watch this there is no relationship between White Album 1 and White album 2. You do not need to go back and watch White Album 1 to understand White Album 2. They are totally different stories/ plots. The only thing that relates them is that they are in the same universe and that they share the same music theme. Just a side opinion - if you really want to watch White album 1 go ahead, but I've watched it couple years a go and it really wasn't my thing, the production was kind of lacking, plot had really big flaws and character development was chaotic. Anyways, enjoy ^^!
White Album 2 - 6 Summary & Thoughts (May contain spoilers)
The anime starts out as Touma recollects the past with her mother gift of the dog plushie. Her mother is leaving for France the next day and has set up a schedule for Touma to be at school and a maid to clean and cook for her while shes on her trip. She gets mad because she feels that her mother has abandoned her saying that its "no use to bring her a long". Touma slaps her hand as she pats her head. She starts to cry but then wakes up from her dreams.
Next scene, Touma looks as if she didn't know how she passed out and ended up on the bed while tears are gushing out of her eyes. She walks downstairs just to find that Haruki is making porridge for her. He's on the phone with Setsuna explaining that she won't need to come and worry, all she needs is to focus on the rehearsal for the cultural festival.
Touma is on her bed while she pretends that shes playing the piano. Haruki greets her as shes now awake. He places the porridge on the side table. Haruki reassures her that hes only doing it because she's a friend and that she should rely on him more. They get into an argument because she believes that he should of been at the rehearsal practicing. Touma gets really mad using her argument that its Haruki's dream to perform and that hes throwing his dream away. Haruki reassures her that his friends are more important than just his dreams.
Haruki is now practicing at the basement of Touma's house for the cultural festival. Hes making mistakes at the same part of his guitar solo. Haruki tells Touma that she should get some rest as she still has a fever but she wants to stay and make sure that his practice is going well. They end up bringing a futon to the basement while he practices his solo.
At the rehearsal Setsuna feels helpless and gets stage fright as she couldn't perform without Haruki or Touma.
Back at Touma's house, Haruki is checking on her temperature, she still seems to have a fever. Haruki asks why she doesn't call her maid to help her cook. He ends up calling for her. He also tells her if she has any problems she can rely on him and tell him. Its approximately 8PM and hes still practicing his guitar solo. Touma finally tells him the reasons of her destructiveness for school and her mother's arrangements. She explains that her destructiveness manifested because her mother became a goal that shes been trying to reach since she left that day for France. Haruki begins to play the song that she wrote the music notes in secrecy and it ends up to be Haruki's lyrics that she took(The botebook that was named Kitahara). As Haruki continues to practice Touma reveals her feelings for Haruki "are you really going to go out with Ogiso" in a whisper. Haruki not being able to hear continues to play his guitar as he looks back at the sleeping Touma.
Its morning now and Haruki has been practicing all night. At school, everyones preparing for the cultural festival. Setsuna dresses in a purple kimono as they prepare for their cafe store for the festival. Haruki's told by Takeya that Setsuna had stage by fright. To his reaction, He suddenly arrives at Setsuna's class cafe and takes her by the hand and leaves.
Inside the train things become romantic for Setsuna and Haruki. Haruki apologizes as for the sudden actions for taking Setsuna away from the cafe. Romance~ Setsuna clings as shes embarrassed that shes dressed in a purple kimono. She stays onto Haruki's back and realizes how broad his shoulders are.
They arrive at Touma's place and she's already practicing on the piano for the concert. Setsuna's happy that Touma is feeling better. Suddenly she has a music book in her hands, and she reads the unknown lyrics and chords that Touma prepared for their 3rd song at the festival. Drama time~ To Setsuna's surprise, she realizes that its lyrics written about Touma by Haruki. Haruki states that its just his dream song that he written during his time at the Light Music Club. Setsuna bites her lips and pretends to smile. She lies that "dreams are very important" and they all continue to practice for their last song.
Thoughts
Side note: To people who don't know about White Album 2. If you want to watch this there is no relationship between White Album 1 and White album 2. You do not need to go back and watch White Album 1 to understand White Album 2. They are totally different stories/ plots. The only thing that relates them is that they are in the same universe and that they share the same music theme. Just a side opinion - if you really want to watch White album 1 go ahead, but I've watched it couple years a go and it really wasn't my thing, the production was kind of lacking, plot had really big flaws and character development was chaotic. Anyways, enjoy ^^!
White Album 2 - 6 Summary & Thoughts (May contain spoilers)
The anime starts out as Touma recollects the past with her mother gift of the dog plushie. Her mother is leaving for France the next day and has set up a schedule for Touma to be at school and a maid to clean and cook for her while shes on her trip. She gets mad because she feels that her mother has abandoned her saying that its "no use to bring her a long". Touma slaps her hand as she pats her head. She starts to cry but then wakes up from her dreams.
Next scene, Touma looks as if she didn't know how she passed out and ended up on the bed while tears are gushing out of her eyes. She walks downstairs just to find that Haruki is making porridge for her. He's on the phone with Setsuna explaining that she won't need to come and worry, all she needs is to focus on the rehearsal for the cultural festival.
Touma is on her bed while she pretends that shes playing the piano. Haruki greets her as shes now awake. He places the porridge on the side table. Haruki reassures her that hes only doing it because she's a friend and that she should rely on him more. They get into an argument because she believes that he should of been at the rehearsal practicing. Touma gets really mad using her argument that its Haruki's dream to perform and that hes throwing his dream away. Haruki reassures her that his friends are more important than just his dreams.
Haruki is now practicing at the basement of Touma's house for the cultural festival. Hes making mistakes at the same part of his guitar solo. Haruki tells Touma that she should get some rest as she still has a fever but she wants to stay and make sure that his practice is going well. They end up bringing a futon to the basement while he practices his solo.
At the rehearsal Setsuna feels helpless and gets stage fright as she couldn't perform without Haruki or Touma.
Back at Touma's house, Haruki is checking on her temperature, she still seems to have a fever. Haruki asks why she doesn't call her maid to help her cook. He ends up calling for her. He also tells her if she has any problems she can rely on him and tell him. Its approximately 8PM and hes still practicing his guitar solo. Touma finally tells him the reasons of her destructiveness for school and her mother's arrangements. She explains that her destructiveness manifested because her mother became a goal that shes been trying to reach since she left that day for France. Haruki begins to play the song that she wrote the music notes in secrecy and it ends up to be Haruki's lyrics that she took(The botebook that was named Kitahara). As Haruki continues to practice Touma reveals her feelings for Haruki "are you really going to go out with Ogiso" in a whisper. Haruki not being able to hear continues to play his guitar as he looks back at the sleeping Touma.
Its morning now and Haruki has been practicing all night. At school, everyones preparing for the cultural festival. Setsuna dresses in a purple kimono as they prepare for their cafe store for the festival. Haruki's told by Takeya that Setsuna had stage by fright. To his reaction, He suddenly arrives at Setsuna's class cafe and takes her by the hand and leaves.
Inside the train things become romantic for Setsuna and Haruki. Haruki apologizes as for the sudden actions for taking Setsuna away from the cafe. Romance~ Setsuna clings as shes embarrassed that shes dressed in a purple kimono. She stays onto Haruki's back and realizes how broad his shoulders are.
They arrive at Touma's place and she's already practicing on the piano for the concert. Setsuna's happy that Touma is feeling better. Suddenly she has a music book in her hands, and she reads the unknown lyrics and chords that Touma prepared for their 3rd song at the festival. Drama time~ To Setsuna's surprise, she realizes that its lyrics written about Touma by Haruki. Haruki states that its just his dream song that he written during his time at the Light Music Club. Setsuna bites her lips and pretends to smile. She lies that "dreams are very important" and they all continue to practice for their last song.
- Oh boy are things getting intense in this episode as things are winding up to the most anticipated roller coaster ride of drama in my life! For the first part of this episode it did a an excellent job in executing the development between Touma and Haruki. Touma's problems reveals why shes so destructive in school and towards her health because of her mother and sees her as a "goal". The gathering of Touma x Haruki at their house shows some development between their relationship as he cares for her, even making her porridge to eat when she fainted!!! Second, Touma's feelings are revealed about Haruki. Although her intentions are still unclear (Secretly composing that song from Haruki's notebook, and saying "are you really going to date ogiso?!" Its definite that she has some sort of feelings than just 'acquaintances'!!! Will rivalry between Setsuna and Touma start?? Who knows!
- Second half of the anime talks about Setsuna, how shes got problems without someone to support her *A-hem* - Haruki. She's become so dependent on Haruki now that she "can't seem to do things without him" - making her feel helpless/useless. Further development on Setsuna's feelings also show in this episode as Haruki takes her hand in front of everyone in the class. She's so surprised at what he did, she probably fell even more in-love with him in the train as she couldn't stop clinging onto his back. This episode also brings out the worst in Setsuna, as she finds out about hidden music notes that Touma created for Haruki's song. Its evident enough that Setsuna is a very jealous type of girl. (Lip biting but then smiles and lies to agree to the new song being on their playlist at the cultural festival). In my opinion, I don't really know. At first I really thought that Setsuna was a sweet girl, nice, popular, loved by everyone at school but as the anime rolls out it seems that she has become someone who lies to her own feelings, and lies and lies to keep things the way they are and to her own advantage. - Note she's also a very jealous girl, evidence can be found at multiply parts of the story when she doesn't like other girls near him, or Touma near him. Although, I still very much like her because its a slice of life thing as most people do deny themselves and lie in order to not complicate relationships between each other. I do respect that part - but I've really got to question her intent - whether its malicious or not.
- As usual, it seems that Haruki is either ignoring or denying the fact of each girl's feelings. I mean come on, Touma writing that song he developed? That's a huge hint to your face, Haruki, that shes got something more - than - just - friends feelings. That being said, Setsuna's doing her usual publicly affectionate things like clinginess scene, hair rubbing scene, etc etc. However, it seems that Setsuna's feelings are beginning to show as she becomes overly dependent on Haruki, I wonder if she's going to be able to function if she gets rejected. (Just saying my thoughts). What will happen to them in the next episode? ;)
Overall I really liked how the production team executed in developing the love triangle between Touma and Haruki in the first half and then focuses on Setsuna's feelings in the second half. THE EMOTIONAL ROLLER-COASTER BEGINS. I would definitely rate this episode as a 8/10, clearly it doesn't exeed expectations, but to a well animated expectation.
Friday 15 November 2013
Golden Time - 7
Its been a while since I last updated my blog because I had tons of essays to write for school. On the other note lets talk about anime! This week's golden time seems to finish up the dramatic ties that occurred in last week's episode 6.
Golden Time Episode 7 Summary & thoughts (Contains spoilers)
Episode 7 starts out from where episode 6 leaves off on the bridge as Banri was about to jump off. Kouko and Banri are lying on top of each other on the bridge's pathway. As Kouko confesses her love to Banri the scene is immediately interrupted by the male she stole his bike from. Apparently the boy also called the police and ends up taking Kouko to the police station.
At the police station Kouko is given off a warning as the police officer only lets her off by signing papers. She's told to wait in the lobby with Banri until her father comes. Here she tries to explain herself that shes given problems to Banri, and apologizes for it. Here they both try to express each others feelings as Banri thinks that Kouko still had something for Mitsuo as to his confession at last episode's party to Chinami. More so, Kouko explains it wasn't that she had feelings still but rather she was more sad for herself because he believed that she lacks confidence, friends, and the out-going personality of Chinami. She also explains how she couldn't accept Banri's initial confession because she believed that it might of been a rebounded love because of her failed attempt at confessing to Mitsuo. She was "suspicious" of her own intents and the only way for her to start liking Banri was that she waited so that she could build enough strength to confess to Banri. She then explains that nothing really goes to plans, and that Banri can reject her if he wanted to. Right when Banri wants to accept her feelings, Kouko's father appears.
At the entrance of the police station, Kouko's father begins by apologizing to Banri how her daughter has caused him trouble and that he should continue to be her friend. Kouko denies that hes her friend but rather her boyfriend.
Banri's at home on his bed realizing how crazy his day went when his phone goes off. Linda appears to have texted him saying she wants to talk to him but he ignores it and continues to sleep. The next day, Kouko meets Banri at the train station saying that she was waiting for 30 minutes so she could be the first one to greet her lover in the morning. She compares this to the story of "Hachiko"(Hachiko is a famous story of a dog that continued to wait for his owner after the owner died) that she was like a lover waiting for her significant other. As they walk together to the university, they agree that they would meet each other as much as they can. Banri even says that he'll go over to Kouko's house but Kouko says that its impossible for her because her parents believe that she'll be troublesome towards Banri, like how she was before towards Mitsuo.
As they arrive to school, 2d kun sees them walking with hands together and asks what happened. He becomes surprised and jealous that Kouko is dating Banri. Mitsuo ends up meeting them at the steps with his hair dyed blonde due to his failed confession with Chinami. They end up sitting at their usual place in the university talking about how he wasn't really surprised at Kouko x Banri getting together. At the same time Chinami arrives, Mitsuo runs away. While they continue talking, Linda also arrives and Banri runs.
Next, Banri explains the days at college with Kouko. How they spend every day together before class, after class, and their whole relatinship. Next, kouko meets up with Banri at his place, while he just finishes up packing his erotic materials all in a box. While he makes coffee and hands it to kouko, she asks if he has problems with Linda-senpai. To Banri's surprise he spits his coffee everywhere. He explains its just a misunderstanding between them and its his fault for lashing out. After that Kouko wanted to check out the box of "potatoes" that banri lied about. They end up on the bed as Banri tries to cover up all his erotic magazines. COMEDY!! She fantasizes on that she wants her first time to be in Paris. While they both fantasize about going to Paris in the elevator and it just so happens that Nana gets on the elevator with them.
Next scene, Banri continues to ignore all the text messages that Linda sends to him while he continues to go to college. Linda meets up with Nana at school and begins to explain her problems. Kouko and Banri are walking and he gets a phone call that his place is leaking into the next building. He rushes home to sort out the so called "leaks". When he arrives Nana is there and says that she lied about the leak so that she could get her roommate which happens to be Linda and kicks her out of the room so she could talk with Banri.
Banri invites Linda to his apartment complex as the environment is awkward and he doesn't know to proceed. Linda explains that Nana used to be in the culture club but left because of work and her band. *DRAMA* As Linda begins to apologize for all the troubles that Banri misunderstood, they both cry as they were both feeling guilty about their misunderstandings. Linda's says that shes happy now that she got to see Banri again and she won't ask for anything more. She finds out that Banri remembers from the photo they took in highschool. Banri asks what their relationship was like in high school and she states that they weren't lovers, but they were also best of friends (Something in between lovers but not yet lovers) . Furthermore, she states that if she weren't late to the confession she wouldn't have lost him at the bridge. Suddenly his phone rings and Kouko says that Mitsuo might be in trouble! More drama!!!!
Thoughts
Golden Time Episode 7 Summary & thoughts (Contains spoilers)
Episode 7 starts out from where episode 6 leaves off on the bridge as Banri was about to jump off. Kouko and Banri are lying on top of each other on the bridge's pathway. As Kouko confesses her love to Banri the scene is immediately interrupted by the male she stole his bike from. Apparently the boy also called the police and ends up taking Kouko to the police station.
At the police station Kouko is given off a warning as the police officer only lets her off by signing papers. She's told to wait in the lobby with Banri until her father comes. Here she tries to explain herself that shes given problems to Banri, and apologizes for it. Here they both try to express each others feelings as Banri thinks that Kouko still had something for Mitsuo as to his confession at last episode's party to Chinami. More so, Kouko explains it wasn't that she had feelings still but rather she was more sad for herself because he believed that she lacks confidence, friends, and the out-going personality of Chinami. She also explains how she couldn't accept Banri's initial confession because she believed that it might of been a rebounded love because of her failed attempt at confessing to Mitsuo. She was "suspicious" of her own intents and the only way for her to start liking Banri was that she waited so that she could build enough strength to confess to Banri. She then explains that nothing really goes to plans, and that Banri can reject her if he wanted to. Right when Banri wants to accept her feelings, Kouko's father appears.
Banri's at home on his bed realizing how crazy his day went when his phone goes off. Linda appears to have texted him saying she wants to talk to him but he ignores it and continues to sleep. The next day, Kouko meets Banri at the train station saying that she was waiting for 30 minutes so she could be the first one to greet her lover in the morning. She compares this to the story of "Hachiko"(Hachiko is a famous story of a dog that continued to wait for his owner after the owner died) that she was like a lover waiting for her significant other. As they walk together to the university, they agree that they would meet each other as much as they can. Banri even says that he'll go over to Kouko's house but Kouko says that its impossible for her because her parents believe that she'll be troublesome towards Banri, like how she was before towards Mitsuo.
Banri invites Linda to his apartment complex as the environment is awkward and he doesn't know to proceed. Linda explains that Nana used to be in the culture club but left because of work and her band. *DRAMA* As Linda begins to apologize for all the troubles that Banri misunderstood, they both cry as they were both feeling guilty about their misunderstandings. Linda's says that shes happy now that she got to see Banri again and she won't ask for anything more. She finds out that Banri remembers from the photo they took in highschool. Banri asks what their relationship was like in high school and she states that they weren't lovers, but they were also best of friends (Something in between lovers but not yet lovers) . Furthermore, she states that if she weren't late to the confession she wouldn't have lost him at the bridge. Suddenly his phone rings and Kouko says that Mitsuo might be in trouble! More drama!!!!
- I really thought that this episode was really well executed in trying to close up the ties from the last episode. This episode reveals the true intentions of Kouko. I only guessed and assumed from the hints last episode that Kouko only intended to confess because she thought she was going to lose Banri to Chinami because she seemed to have everything she didn't have (friends, ability to make new friends, outgoing personality, confidence, etc). I guess I was right, as it nicely wraps up the confusion of Kouko trying to identify herself and Banri gets a happy ending!
- As one problem is solved for Banri and Kouko, it seems like another one has sprung up for Mitsuo and Chinami. Things between them seem to have gone sour as they both misunderstood each other. Chinami doesn't really believe the confession at the party as it wasn't in a serious setting while Mitsuo really believes he has no chance now. (I feel bad for Mitsuo). However, I still believe that Chinami is saying that Mitsuo still has a chance!!! Only if he wasn't acting like a kid and running from his problems it could work out!!!!
- Comedy in this episode was great as they added the mature content of sexual themes like ero magazines and condoms LOL. Although its pretty cliche, I still enjoyed this very much. Especially when Kouko was able to find his ero stash; made me laugh especially with them fantasizing how it would be romantic to go to Paris for their first sexual experience. Made me laugh my eyes out :').
- Wrap up on the misunderstandings between Linda x Banri was perfectly executed. I guess being tricked was the only way to get Banri to finally speak with Linda about their past. Their problems get cleared up as they both know that they did wrong- Linda pretending to be a new person - Banri suddenly lashing out on her. Although what I found here explains last episode that Linda was going to confess back to Banri even though she was late. If she "wasn't late" she might have had a happier ending". Although it ends with a touching explanation of their relationship in high school, things could be better as Linda's character may grow more attached to Banri! She might have a chance! Lastly, NEW DRAMA!!!! What could it be with Mitsuo?! I'm very interested in next episode to see what happens to him!
Saturday 9 November 2013
True Tears 13 Closing Captions & Thoughts
I've got to say that this anime is one of my favorites that I've watched so far. It started airing in 2008 and to this day, in 2013 the drawings were very satisfying and the plot, character, and sounds were really good for something that was published 5 years ago. Many animes that I watch by personal preference I can't watch even if I love Romance - Slice of Life - Drama anime because of how technology has advanced in animation. This will be a Synopsis and full review of the whole anime and also the closing caption thoughts on the last episode of what I think about it. If you don't want to read the synopsis just scroll all the way down to my "thoughts"
True Tears (May contain spoilers)
Synopsis of the whole anime: This anime is a drama - romance - slice of life type of anime, if you really don't like dramatic romances I really don't suggest that you watch this series. At the beginning Shinichi is a boy who is now sharing a house with one of his dad's old friends daughter that had passed on. His Dad's friend left his daughter (Hiromi) in his care and ends up living with Shinichi for high school He secretly has a longing love for Hiromi but obstacles are in his way (Himself & Enviroment). During this time, he meets a girl called Noe, who is strange and has been labelled as a weird girl who has pen pals with aliens. During the season, he gets closer towards Noe as she tries to find the "true tears" and encapsulate beautiful ones after his grandmother has "taken them away with her to the skies" while he's also trying to find the "true tears" of Hiromi because she seems like she is sad all the time but won't cry. Obstacles come between the three as they all try to share their love for each of them but no one is able to clearly express themselves even if they want to. What will happen in the end?Synopsis of Episode 13 (May contain spoilers)
In this episode it starts out with Shinichi and Noe's older brother in the hospital. They end up in the roof as they take coffee out of the vending machine in the lobby. At that time their conversations was about making amends of how Shinichi should have stopped Noe from climbing the tree and falling off. Noe's brother asks if Shinichi really knows why Noe can't cry but he says to him, "Self fullfilment maybe?" and that scene ends with Noe's brother saying he won't forgive him and that he should leave. Noe's brother leaves the roof and ends up back in Noe's room while they discuss how they hurt each other and that Noe's brother confesses that it wasn't anyone fault but his since he (was the one who set Noe up with Shinichi who didn't have any feelings for Noe)
Next, you see Noe's brother meet with Hiromi on the street, as they go to a nearby shrine they talk. They both have a conversation about the whole messed up situation that everyone was in. Hiromi states that it was her fault, but Noe's brother reassures it isn't any ones fault. After that, Noe's brother confesses that he does not like her, and he never had.
At school, Shinichi is approached by Hiromi and says that he should meet up at her house. At her house she only has 1 cup because she broke the other cup. She sips on the same cup as Shinichi while she serves him cake. She says its fine and says "Don't hate me". Shinichi says that she is acting strange and she realizes shes said something weird and asks him to leave her house. She says to herself with self guilt that shes become someone shes hated and a bad person. Hiromi then is seen at school playing basketball in her school uniform.
Next scene, Shinichi approaches his father saying when does a person cry and he replies when someone has a wavering heart. A flashback of when he does his Muguhi dance he sees Noe in his eyes which means that he had a wavering heart for Noe. Hiromi then enters his household. Hiromi confronts Shinichi that he has to make a decision, even if its not one that is suited for her. He leaves the house with his picture book and states to Hiromi that he will be over for dinner. Shinichi's mother sees this while Hiromi states that "she will be waiting".
Shinichi arrives at the hospital and is with Noe. He wants to show her the picture book that he has created. Noe says she doesn't want to look at it. Shinichi then says he will throw it away then if she doesn't want to. He states that he will throw it where Noe was at the sea where "the chicken tried to fly".
Next scene, he is at the ocean where he is making paper airplanes out of the picture book. Noe arrives with crutches and tries to take the pictures that were shaped into airplanes and thrown into the ocean. At the same time, Shinichi's mother is with Hiromi at her own house and is trying to reassure her that "waiting takes a lot of patience". while she replies with "a thank you". Back at the beach, Shinichi and Noe are together and they look at the picture book. The last page is missing and Noe is fine with that, she'll imagine what will happen. Shinichi realizes all the things hes done is because of Noe, hes able to open himself up only because of her. He then decides to tell her that hes always loved Hiromi, and Hiromi is the only one hes longed for. Noe is seen walking and states that even if she is in pain she can't fly yet.
Shinichi arrives back at Hiromi's place only to find that shes not there. He walks out in the snow path and finds her by the path. Hiromi asks him if he shown the picture book to Noe, and that she wants to see it too. He ignores it and abruptly confesses to her to go out with him. Hiromi replies with a NO because she believes that he chose Noe over her. In the end, Shinichi says that he will always be by her side. She starts to cry as he hugs her.
Ending: You see Shinichi's monologue to himself saying that people can only cry when theres important people with them. Hiromi is playing basketball. Noe's brother leaves to do his drawing training in a Tokyo University. Shinichi's father is brewing sake at home. Aiko is with Miyokichi and is starting their relationship afresh. It ends with Noe at the chicken coupe where she's finally able to cry as tears flow out into the wind.
DVD extended ending: Hiromi and Shinichi are walking together at the beach, Noe has started to open up and is making friends. Aiko and Miyokichi are pushing a stall together. Hiromi's relationship with Shinichi's mom gets better (they are putting a kimono together). Noe finally takes a step forward to fly (change and open up), and Aiko, Miyokichi, and Shinichi enter the shrine again in order to restart their friendships.
My thoughts on this anime is that it was amazing because it certainly did execute one of the best, melodramatic romance one might find themselves in school.
One should note that this anime "true tears" is a theme and not just what a lot of fans call 'dedicated to searching for Noe's tears'. Although, the anime did execute it to look like that, that isn't the main point of this anime. True tears refers to two things in this anime. First is "true" in tears, where you should be true to your feelings, your expressions and your emotions. Second, is the tears, where you should be able to let them free when you are want to express them and not hide in secrecy or holding it in. The main theme here is misunderstandings of emotions and feelings. Three people are affected here, Hiromi, Shinichi, Noe.
Let me explain my thoughts on Noe. Ideally, I thought the path of this anime was actually Noe but it wasn't and mainly I speculate because of certain factors. She can't express her emotions properly because of her grandmother that had died. She resorted to what we call "freezing time" so that she holds all her emotions and feelings to herself never to express them because of that one promise her grandmother made. "I'll take your tears and take them to sky with me". All in all, Shinichi's role wasn't all that bad. He really wanted to just make her cry, express her feelings and also open up. However, I think it happened the other way around. In the end Shinichi cries first because she was able to let him express himself properly especially with the misunderstanding between who he loves and his indecisiveness of Noe. I was happy to see that Noe was able to release her tears finally and express herself more freely as she was able to gain friends at school. She's become a person that is willing to let go of the past, and persevere into the future from the "frozen time" she kept herself in.
Hiromi is a very interesting character indeed. She drew a lot of controversy in the True Tear's fan society, causing a ruckus in who Shinichi should pick. Many believed that she was a "lamp pole" throughout the whole anime but that isn't true because they haven't really looked into the insight of her character development In my opinion, it doesnt really matter if it was either Noe or Hiromi. Although I want to state a couple things that people may have missed about her and her "secrecy" that makes her look like a devil.
Her portrayal in the anime was that she was always sad, and the anime did a perfect job executing how she was so sad, and unsatisfied with life because of all the obstacles (Shinichi's Mom, Noe's brother, Aiko, general misunderstandings) that was between her and Shinichi. She couldn't cry but had to endure all those painful things while being patient with Shinichi. In the end, Shinichi noticed this and he wanted to be the one that to help her release all that emotion that she built up in secrecy. What I find that is truly touching and heart wavering is that she still waited until the end for him even with all those hardships she had to endure and she deserves it as Shinichi was there for her and was a longing love between both of them. It really defines what true love is and that the anime really did a nice job emphasizing this(I.e Lips on the cup sharing with Shinichi). Don't stop, don't waste the opportunity even if there are hardships 'I will be the one to persevere through hardships for the one true soul mate I ever wanted' type of thing.
Shinichi: I believe most people really misunderstand him as he is also very misunderstood in the anime. He was always put first into these situations in his perspective of whats happening. His personality was trying to be kind to everyone even though it may cause some misunderstandings between all characters. But in the end, he was able to grow, cry, express himself, and make his decision on who he longs for and who he loves. is what really defines this character as growth. In addition, Noe was what people call as a "real catalyst" for his character development because he was able to feel, give empathy, express himself from these obstacles of misunderstandings through drawing the picture book for Noe while it was also Vice-Versa for Noe.
Additional characters I wanted to talk about:
I wanted to talk about Aiko and Miyokichi as well since their supporting roles in the anime. For Aiko people most likely misinterpret her as a antagonist. Well, that is true but its to the point where its her expressing her feelings. She was put into a very hard position by Shinichi. She was practically forced to date Miyokichi when she truly has feelings for Shinichi and it dates back to childhood friends. Her behavior isn't necessarily bad if you take a perspective that some people have to show their true feelings of love even if it wasn't meant to be. It was really hard for her especially when you have to lie to yourself and date someone you don't even like for the sake of the one you do love. However, her actions do seem to be the extreme, lying to Miyokichi, and kissing Shinichi all those pan out to develop her as a character, and as a girl's experience of unrequited love. Having to deceive herself and put herself in those positions take a lot of guts! In the end, I guess it was for the best that she left Shinichi alone, to further develop his position for Noe & Hiromi. Life's not always in your favour is what I've learned from her! For Miyokichi, he was probably one of the best supporting roles I've seen in the anime. He had to deal with Aiko even if he knew she was lying and also still be best friends for Shinichi. That takes a lot of guts you know especially when you know the girl you love likes another guy. This really showed me what true friendship is between Shinichi and Miyokichi. I'm happy in the end that it turned out great for Aiko and Miyokichi and being able to start their relationship anew and still keep their friendship together.
In the end I was really satisfied even if the ending would have been Noe or Hiromi. It wouldn't have mattered anyways because they both have their good points to become picked as the end pair up. It was fine also to see that Aiko and Miyokichi was together again to sort out their relationship problems as friends. It really seems like they all were ready to grow up and experience new things. Although I wish that there would be an OVA to see what happened between Hiromi and Shinichi and Noe in the college years or something like that. This anime has really lived up to its name since it was produced in 2008 and still appeals to me in 2013. I really give this anime 9/10 In my expectations. It's one of the best romances I've seen so far.
Thursday 7 November 2013
Golden Time - 6
So this is some intensive entry and thoughts I'm going to be pooring out. So if you guys don't want to have spoilers please don't read this review/synopsis of this blog + leave the spoiler alert unclicked. Thanks ^^
Summary of this episode:
So this episode started out as Tada Banri who has just gotten his graduation gift, where his name is left out and his "emotional bomb" has ticked. While we see Linda (Nana) consulting him that it was just a misunderstanding. Later that night of the graduation, he was going to confess to Linda where she tells him he would wait for her by the bridge they always meet at to receive her confession.
BOOM next scene. Present time. They are training for the dance at the dance studio at school. He was wearing new shoes that were going to be sold because it didn't fit one of the senpais in the club. BOOM. Appears to be Linda's shoes that didn't fit, and she tells him that it is given to him free of charged. Although she was trying to sell it at 5000 yen (Equivalent to 50 USD with the original price of 200 USD (20000 Yen)). After, the fourth year old senpais who were the club leaders before come in after this and gave them fans for their dances that had (YES/NO) on them.
At school, meeting hall lobby, Kouko is sitting with Banri and she just so happens to talk about Linda-Banri's situation. "Did something happen between you guys". Banri denies this although there is something on his mind. However, Oki Chinami walks in and invites both of them to a party that she has gathered. Kouko, flairs up and does her usual out of style spoiled brattiness. After, Banri confronts Chinami if her intent was malicious. Chinami says no it isn't, she could never do anything malicious. (What a nice girl she is ^^) Perfect foil character!
They all are at the party that Chinami set out at Golden Time. Same as always, Kouko and Mitsuo are on bad terms, fighting with each other and end up daring Mitsuo to confess to Chinami about going out with her. Mitsuo does, fails horribly LOL "Don't be a baka". They begin to argue again, Banri and 2d-kun end up throwing both of them into the party next door which ends up to be the Tea club partying there again.
End of the party, Kouko and Banri are together walking home. Kouko wants to play some more after the party but ends up hurting Banri's feelings by mentioning Mitsuo and staying all night over at Banri's house to make fun of him. Banri gets fed up and decides to end his relationship of being tomodachi (friends) with her. Shes reluctant that she does not want to end the relationship with Banri. She tries to say something but gets cut off as Banri gets fed up with her excuses and orders a taxi without listening to her.
Next day, at the dance studio again, things appear to be awkward between kouko and Banri. Linda comes in while Banri is packing up. Linda confronts Banri what is wrong with both of them asking if they were in a fight and fighting with their girlfriend is not good. Banri explodes at this time. *DRAMAAAAAAA* - This part is very important and for all you viewers. You must and should pay attention as it foreshadows a lot of the next episode. Banri finally confronts Linda about the past why things happen, why things are and runs away when Linda tries to explain herself. He locks himself in the bathroom door and then Linda comes in trying to explain herself. Banri says that he isn't the old Banri anymore and everything has "disappeared" like his old self. Meanwhile, as Linda walks out Kouko stands waiting there and tries to confront Banri- if something happened with Linda-senpai. Banri runs away saying "YES"
During this time a deep monologue with himself about how people make choices in life. People always have choices to make, and it is always going to be a "YES or a NO". Whether you make the right choice as Banri says or not he will never know as it is something every person does. - You make a wrong choice - you suffer the backlash and consequence of it, if you make the right choice then you're going to be happy. He ends up at a bridge to a river and thus ending his monologue saying to himself maybe its best if he can start over if he just jumped off and got amnesia again. While contemplating about to jump off the bridge - Kouko appears on a bike and bashes into him. She grabs his foot while saying "I don't want to be where I can't reach you anymore" and she then CONFESSES HER LOVE TO HIM.
There are a few things I want to analyze and talk about in this chapter to people who might be in confusion.
First things first - Linda and Banri - They had a pass together, Linda was always there when he was in trouble - especially in the beginning of this episode when he was a crybaby about his name being missing in the graduation t-shirts. Whats important here is the confession that was suppose to take place after graduation of the day Banri was waiting on the bridge. Here is when it becomes unclear and I had to reread the Light novel (Yes I read the light novel).
(SPOILERS Highlight them if you want to read it!)
1) In the according to the LN (light novel) this is where it gets messy between the execution in the anime and the LN - Yes Linda was going to confess towards Banri that day. This part whether it was a Yes or No doesn't make a difference. Many people have their own opinions but I'm going to say that Linda was going to say YES- Although many people said that because she didn't arrive on time AND left to Tokyo without confronting him after his amnesia meant it was a NO - but IMO that's a probably because it was a life regret that she couldn't finish her confession to him - IMO guilt that it was her fault. My opinions? I really felt bad for Linda as she had the opportunity to confess to Banri whether it be a no or yes, she lost that opportunity and it was a once in a life time thing. Not be in a negative sense - Its a snooze you lose moment - Once in a life time (sorry for reference to Eminem) regret that Linda has that I really have to sympathize for her.
2) Why did she pretend nothing had happened to Banri though? In my thoughts about this is probably because of that once in a life time thing I just spoke about. Because she missed the chance, she wanted to start afresh with the new Banri, she wants a new relationship a new Banri she can be with rather than the old Banri that "died" along with that opportunity. - Edit- Now looking back at the anime she refers to him as a "bomb" This exactly evidently proves that she was trying anew their relationship from a fresh beginning. "bomb" in this sense wasn't so much referring to him as someone explosive but, someone fragile that she doesn't want to be seen gone from her life. Linda, that made me cry :'(
3) Most people believe that Kouko has malicious intent as they refer to previous intent of hers to get close to Banri inorder to exploit him and get closer to Mitsuo. In my opionion this out of the blue confession could have been seen as it was one of her "plans" to get her first love back. I have doubts about this, because although she is a spoiled brat, raised from a rich family, her intentions where never that malicious to that extent. Just watch Sukitte Ii na yo. - The model; thats a real Antagonist MC right there. Just malicious to the core and broken. But Kouko, is not that she is a genuine MC with an innocent child's dream and heart. So to say, Kouko probably has no bad intentions but just not wanting to lose Banri because she has "fun" and also is comfortable around him as he is her only friend. - In my opinion she'd probably grow more onto him and him onto her - Vice/Versa.
All in all, I'm pretty satisfied with this episode although it got me up on jitters to do some research at 2:30AM on my own and reach my own consensus on the parts of this episode. Willing to give this anime probably a 9/10 or 10/10 for this rom - com genre as most of them are pretty bad and harem based nowadays.
Now for spoilers if you wanna know what happens to Linda x Banri click here! Next week! (From the LN Please highlight if you want to see the spoilers)
"We had a truly, really, incredibly good relationship. In the same class all three years of high school, in the same clubs, oddly we felt like--- the best of friends, so to speak. We were always stuck together, the two of us. But, we just weren't dating. Our relationship was beyond good, but it never became a love affair. We would tell each other that even if either of us managed to fall in love, each of us separately getting married and having families, and growing old, we would always, even as we came to be grandfather and grandmother, stay bosom buddies. It was that kind of relationship."
With that in mind, perhaps things will bloom for them later? ^^ - This only explained the relationship, but imo my opinion about the confession still holds true
Summary of this episode:
So this episode started out as Tada Banri who has just gotten his graduation gift, where his name is left out and his "emotional bomb" has ticked. While we see Linda (Nana) consulting him that it was just a misunderstanding. Later that night of the graduation, he was going to confess to Linda where she tells him he would wait for her by the bridge they always meet at to receive her confession.
BOOM next scene. Present time. They are training for the dance at the dance studio at school. He was wearing new shoes that were going to be sold because it didn't fit one of the senpais in the club. BOOM. Appears to be Linda's shoes that didn't fit, and she tells him that it is given to him free of charged. Although she was trying to sell it at 5000 yen (Equivalent to 50 USD with the original price of 200 USD (20000 Yen)). After, the fourth year old senpais who were the club leaders before come in after this and gave them fans for their dances that had (YES/NO) on them.
At school, meeting hall lobby, Kouko is sitting with Banri and she just so happens to talk about Linda-Banri's situation. "Did something happen between you guys". Banri denies this although there is something on his mind. However, Oki Chinami walks in and invites both of them to a party that she has gathered. Kouko, flairs up and does her usual out of style spoiled brattiness. After, Banri confronts Chinami if her intent was malicious. Chinami says no it isn't, she could never do anything malicious. (What a nice girl she is ^^) Perfect foil character!
They all are at the party that Chinami set out at Golden Time. Same as always, Kouko and Mitsuo are on bad terms, fighting with each other and end up daring Mitsuo to confess to Chinami about going out with her. Mitsuo does, fails horribly LOL "Don't be a baka". They begin to argue again, Banri and 2d-kun end up throwing both of them into the party next door which ends up to be the Tea club partying there again.
End of the party, Kouko and Banri are together walking home. Kouko wants to play some more after the party but ends up hurting Banri's feelings by mentioning Mitsuo and staying all night over at Banri's house to make fun of him. Banri gets fed up and decides to end his relationship of being tomodachi (friends) with her. Shes reluctant that she does not want to end the relationship with Banri. She tries to say something but gets cut off as Banri gets fed up with her excuses and orders a taxi without listening to her.
There are a few things I want to analyze and talk about in this chapter to people who might be in confusion.
First things first - Linda and Banri - They had a pass together, Linda was always there when he was in trouble - especially in the beginning of this episode when he was a crybaby about his name being missing in the graduation t-shirts. Whats important here is the confession that was suppose to take place after graduation of the day Banri was waiting on the bridge. Here is when it becomes unclear and I had to reread the Light novel (Yes I read the light novel).
(SPOILERS Highlight them if you want to read it!)
The bathroom's tiled floor was doing the giant slalom. The designs on the partition walls were spinning. Brushing up his sticky hair, Banri simply opened his eyes wide.
He wondered what would become of him now. He wondered what he should do. He wondered what he wanted to do. Still not understanding anything, as it was, he felt he was quite a mess.
Bam! That moment, from the other side of the door a loud noise rang, making him flinch. Somebody was banging on the door. With all his might, he clasped his hands together.
He heard a voice on the verge of crying asking his forgiveness.
"...Who is it...?"
I was scared! Shouting like that, her voice broke, pausing.
"...I don't understand... Who is it...?"
You were like a bomb, completely. If I were to touch you the wrong way, then I would maybe lose you again. And perhaps you would disappear again. Thinking like that, I didn't know what I should do. I still don't know. I'm still scared, scared, I cannot help but be scared. It may have been my fault, and if it were my fault what should I do, if again... thinking like that, I was afraid, and helpless.
"...I, forgot... altogether..."
That day, I did go to give you an answer.
"...Everything became nothing..."
Though I was delayed, I wanted to answer you. I wanted you to hear my answer. Banri. But I didn't get there in time.
Hey, was I to blame?
Was it my fault?
Because I didn't get there on time, then, what of it? Was I like that... to you? Show me Banri, answer me. Was it my fault?
But you didn't tell me that if I showed up late, I would lose you and you would disappear completely!
"If it ended there, like that, wasn't it nothing!?"
He wondered what would become of him now. He wondered what he should do. He wondered what he wanted to do. Still not understanding anything, as it was, he felt he was quite a mess.
Bam! That moment, from the other side of the door a loud noise rang, making him flinch. Somebody was banging on the door. With all his might, he clasped his hands together.
He heard a voice on the verge of crying asking his forgiveness.
"...Who is it...?"
I was scared! Shouting like that, her voice broke, pausing.
"...I don't understand... Who is it...?"
You were like a bomb, completely. If I were to touch you the wrong way, then I would maybe lose you again. And perhaps you would disappear again. Thinking like that, I didn't know what I should do. I still don't know. I'm still scared, scared, I cannot help but be scared. It may have been my fault, and if it were my fault what should I do, if again... thinking like that, I was afraid, and helpless.
"...I, forgot... altogether..."
That day, I did go to give you an answer.
"...Everything became nothing..."
Though I was delayed, I wanted to answer you. I wanted you to hear my answer. Banri. But I didn't get there in time.
Hey, was I to blame?
Was it my fault?
Because I didn't get there on time, then, what of it? Was I like that... to you? Show me Banri, answer me. Was it my fault?
But you didn't tell me that if I showed up late, I would lose you and you would disappear completely!
"If it ended there, like that, wasn't it nothing!?"
(END OF SPOILERS)
1) In the according to the LN (light novel) this is where it gets messy between the execution in the anime and the LN - Yes Linda was going to confess towards Banri that day. This part whether it was a Yes or No doesn't make a difference. Many people have their own opinions but I'm going to say that Linda was going to say YES- Although many people said that because she didn't arrive on time AND left to Tokyo without confronting him after his amnesia meant it was a NO - but IMO that's a probably because it was a life regret that she couldn't finish her confession to him - IMO guilt that it was her fault. My opinions? I really felt bad for Linda as she had the opportunity to confess to Banri whether it be a no or yes, she lost that opportunity and it was a once in a life time thing. Not be in a negative sense - Its a snooze you lose moment - Once in a life time (sorry for reference to Eminem) regret that Linda has that I really have to sympathize for her.
2) Why did she pretend nothing had happened to Banri though? In my thoughts about this is probably because of that once in a life time thing I just spoke about. Because she missed the chance, she wanted to start afresh with the new Banri, she wants a new relationship a new Banri she can be with rather than the old Banri that "died" along with that opportunity. - Edit- Now looking back at the anime she refers to him as a "bomb" This exactly evidently proves that she was trying anew their relationship from a fresh beginning. "bomb" in this sense wasn't so much referring to him as someone explosive but, someone fragile that she doesn't want to be seen gone from her life. Linda, that made me cry :'(
3) Most people believe that Kouko has malicious intent as they refer to previous intent of hers to get close to Banri inorder to exploit him and get closer to Mitsuo. In my opionion this out of the blue confession could have been seen as it was one of her "plans" to get her first love back. I have doubts about this, because although she is a spoiled brat, raised from a rich family, her intentions where never that malicious to that extent. Just watch Sukitte Ii na yo. - The model; thats a real Antagonist MC right there. Just malicious to the core and broken. But Kouko, is not that she is a genuine MC with an innocent child's dream and heart. So to say, Kouko probably has no bad intentions but just not wanting to lose Banri because she has "fun" and also is comfortable around him as he is her only friend. - In my opinion she'd probably grow more onto him and him onto her - Vice/Versa.
All in all, I'm pretty satisfied with this episode although it got me up on jitters to do some research at 2:30AM on my own and reach my own consensus on the parts of this episode. Willing to give this anime probably a 9/10 or 10/10 for this rom - com genre as most of them are pretty bad and harem based nowadays.
Now for spoilers if you wanna know what happens to Linda x Banri click here! Next week! (From the LN Please highlight if you want to see the spoilers)
"We had a truly, really, incredibly good relationship. In the same class all three years of high school, in the same clubs, oddly we felt like--- the best of friends, so to speak. We were always stuck together, the two of us. But, we just weren't dating. Our relationship was beyond good, but it never became a love affair. We would tell each other that even if either of us managed to fall in love, each of us separately getting married and having families, and growing old, we would always, even as we came to be grandfather and grandmother, stay bosom buddies. It was that kind of relationship."
With that in mind, perhaps things will bloom for them later? ^^ - This only explained the relationship, but imo my opinion about the confession still holds true
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