Anime Hajime Review: Banana Fish

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Banana Fish. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

The underworld gangs of New York are constantly vying for control and influence. At their worst, open war will break out on the streets of Manhattan. Among the most dangerous of this lot is the brilliant Ash Lynx (voiced by Yuuma Uchida).

For years, Ash has sworn loyalty to one of the city’s most powerful organizations. That suddenly changes when someone close to Ash falls victim to his group’s most recent drug – Banana Fish. This new narcotic is rumored to break a user’s mind, and Ash wants no part of this enterprise.

At the same time, a journalist pair from Japan has arrived to document organized crime in the United States. The younger of the duo, Eiji Okumura (voiced by Kenji Nojima), is bright-eyed and innocent. He has no idea he has just entered a deadly world. One of his first contacts is none other than Ash Lynx.

Ash and Eiji immediately form a friendship, and the two could not have made a costlier mistake. All of Ash’s enemies now see Eiji as a potential target. Along with discovering the truth behind Banana Fish, Ash must maintain constant vigilance if he wishes to protect Eiji.

Anime Hajime Review: Sirius the Jaeger

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Sirius the Jaeger. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

It is the 1930s, and the political climate of the world is at the height of tension. With the risk of conflict on the horizon, it is easy to overlook what lurks within the shadows.

For centuries, monstrous beings —vampires — have been exerting their influence wherever they can. No matter the era, their goal has always been the same: Humans are to remain as food.

To combat the frightening might of this enemy, Jaegers (elite vampire hunters) have made it their mission to defend humanity. Among their ranks is the young, but highly skilled Yuliy (voiced by Yuto Uemura).

Unlike his fellow Jaegers, Yuliy is from an ancient tribe known as the Sirius. Since time immemorial, the Sirius have been the guardians of great power and knowledge; the very thing both vampires and governments seek.

Yuliy does not know the full history of his people, but their teachings may be the thing that saves the world from terror.

Anime Hajime Review: Shoujo☆Kageki Revue Starlight

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Shoujo Kageki Revue Starlight. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

At the prestigious Seisho Music Academy, the 99^th graduating class performed an unforgettable rendition of the stage play Starlight. Going into their school’s 100^th year, the 99^th class is determined to outdo themselves with a repeat production of the Starlight story.

Among the 99^th class is Karen Aijo (voiced by Momoyo Koyama). Karen loves the theater but is lacking in stage presence when compared to her classmates. However, a spark alights within Karen when her childhood friend, Hikari Kagura (voiced by Suzuko Mimori), returns to Japan after a twelve-year absence.

Unfortunately, Hikari is distant, cold, and the person Karen once knew no longer seems to exist. To discover what is going on with her friend, Karen follows Hikari to Seisho Academy one night and stumbles upon an unbelievable sight.

In the shadows of the theatrical world is the competition known as Revue Starlight. Here performers battle one another with music, dance, and swords to determine who is the legendary Top Star. Karen sees Hikari’s audition, and without fully understanding what is happening, jumps in to aid her friend.

Anime Hajime Review: Chio's School Road

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Chio’s School Road. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

In the life of an average student, nothing can be more mundane and innocuous than the walk to school. Such an activity is so expected and so commonplace, people often don’t consider it as a significant part of their day. However, that is where most people would be wrong. A simple commute can end up being incredibly exciting if you’re willing to be a little unconventional.

For high-schooler Chio Miyamo (voiced by Naomi Ozora), the very thought of being anything more than normal is scary, as well as a tad bit annoying. What good can come from being the center of attention? According to Chio, none at all. Be that as it may, Chio has a special knack for getting into unbelievable situations that are sure to be the talk of everyone.

Whether it is taking a shortcut, talking with her friends, or dismantling the entire leadership of a motorcycle gang, Chio’s dream of having a no-nonsense, utterly ordinary reputation will always remain just that – a dream.

Anime Hajime Review: Yuuna and the Haunted Hot Springs

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Yuuna and the Haunted Hot Springs. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Kogarashi Fuyuzora (voiced by Yuki Ono) is a powerful spirit medium. As a child, Kogarashi was often possessed by a wide variety of spirits. Although this caused him to have a difficult childhood, he was able to master many unique skills. Now much older, Kogarashi has made peace with his connection to the supernatural world and has found a cheap place to live as he beings the next chapter of his life.

However, Kogarashi’s new home, the Yuragi Inn, is said to be incredibly haunted; a rumor that couldn’t be truer. Given his vast experience with the otherworldly, Kogarashi wasn’t worried. To his great surprise, though, Kogarashi has never encountered a ghost like the one which resides at this former hot spring hotel.

Bound to the Yuragi Inn is the spirit of Yuuna Yunohana (voiced by Miyuri Shimabukuro). Yuuna has no desire to haunt or cause trouble to anyone. Nevertheless, most people tend to run away at the mere sight of her (assuming they can see her at all). Kogarashi is the first human to not only befriend Yuuna, but he also commits himself to elevate her lingering regret.  

Despite his earnest desire to help, Kogarashi quickly discovers living with a ghost isn’t the easiest thing to do. Still, whatever may come, he will not leave Yuuna to feel lonely ever again.

Out and About: Eigakan - Dragon Ball Super: Broly

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Dragon Ball Super: Broly. Reader discretion is advised.***

 As a reminder: This is NOT A REVIEW. Films and other posts under the Out and About: Eigakan label are watched in Japanese with NO English subtitles. Therefore, misinterpretations and misunderstandings are possible. With that said:

I just got out of Dragon Ball Super: Broly.

Before I say any of my thoughts, I need to come clean.

Although I’ve been a huge fan of the Dragon Ball series ever since Toonami’s heyday on Cartoon Network, I haven’t yet watched a single episode of Dragon Ball Super. Also, even though I am familiar with the character of Broly, I have not seen any of the three films which bare his name – Dragon Ball Z: Broly - The Legendary Super Saiyan, Dragon Ball Z: Broly - Second Coming, and Dragon Ball Z: Bio-Broly.

When walking into the theatre, I knew I would have a bit of a handicap. Nevertheless, I wasn’t too worried because:

1. This was Dragon Ball. How hard could it be to figure out?
2. The aspects I do know about Broly's character are as follows: He’s big, he’s strong, and he’s a massive problem.

Anime Hajime Review: Ladyspo

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Ladyspo. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

In the world of the future, there is Lady Sports. Across the galaxy, teams of athletically-minded women challenge each other to see who is the best of the best. Tennis, soccer, giant robot battles, the type of competition matters not.

In this high action environment, Team Hearts, consisting of Arigetti, Korupi, and Sabina (voiced respectively by Saki Shimada, Akari Uehara, and Suzuna Kinoshita), have been flying around and building a name for themselves. In line with the true meaning of Lady Sports, Team Hearts is willing to take on anyone at any time anywhere.

Regardless of what is played, the spirit of the game must rise above all else. Friendship and teamwork are far more valued than pure talent alone. For that reason, win or lose, as long as a player gives their best, no one can ask for more.

Anime Hajime Review: Tsukumogami Kashimasu

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Tsukumogami Kashimasu. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

In Japanese folklore, a tsukumogami is born when an ordinary, everyday object is well-cared for and loved by its owner. From combs to dolls to smoking pipes, the more an item is treasured, the more likely it will become a tsukumogami. And no place in Edo (modern-day Tokyo) knows more about these mysterious beings than the small rental shop Izumoya.

This tiny store is owned and operated by the brother-sister duo, Seiji and Oko (voiced by Junya Enoki and Mikako Komatsu). Granted, although they refer to themselves as siblings, they are not related by blood. Nevertheless, their close relationship and teamwork have caused their place to grow with each passing day. However, these two’s success would be nowhere near as lucrative if they didn’t have some special assistance.

Amongst Seiji and Oko’s inventory are a group of tsukumogami, who like discussing the news circling around town. Then from time to time, Seiji and Oko call upon their friends to aid in their unintended side business.

Word has gotten out that Seiji and Oko are incredibly skilled at problem-solving, and many of the pair’s clientele have had their minds set at ease thanks to their advice.

Anime Hajime Review: Angolmois - Record of Mongol Invasion

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Angolmois: Record of Mongol Invasion. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

The year is 1274, and the mighty Mongol Empire continues to expand its territory. Its newest target is the small, fractured island nation of Japan. However, before the Mongols go after the Japanese mainland, they first must secure the strategically vital Tsushima Island.

Before the massive invasion reaches Japanese soil, the now exiled samurai Kuchii Jinzaburo (voiced by Yuki Ono) is commissioned to defend Tsushima at all costs.

Kuchii has no real stake in this fight, but war is the one thing he knows, and he knows it well. It is not difficult to see the residents of Tsushima love their home, and they intend to defend it no matter what. Too bad Kuchii understands more than anyone, even the most harden dedication will do little to stop the oncoming Mongol war machine.

The chances of a Japanese victory are low. They are so low in fact, death seems assured. What can anyone do to stop the inevitable? Well, like any samurai would say:

You fight until your last breath.

Anime Hajime Review: Ryuo no Oshigoto

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Ryuo no Oshigoto. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

In the world of shogi (Japanese chess), the title of Ryuo is an honor only given to the game’s best players. Such an astonishing feat was then made even more impressive when sixteen-year-old Yaichi Kuzuryu (voiced by Yuuma Uchida) became the youngest Ryuo in the history.

Since his landmark accomplishment, Yaichi has been in a debilitating slump. Shogi has not excited him like it used to, and his skills as a player seem to have hit a wall. However, the next phase of his career is about to begin.

In awe of Yaichi’s Ryuo match, elementary schooler Ai Hinatsuru (voiced by Rina Hidaka) tracks Yaichi down in order to become his first disciple. Though not expecting much, Yaichi decides to give Ai a chance to demonstrate her abilities. As it turns out, Ai is a natural who already rivals some of the best players out there.

In an instant, Yaichi’s love for shogi lights up again, and he happily takes Ai under his wing.

Anime Hajime Review: Doreiku The Animation

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Doreiku The Animation. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Whispers are going around about a mysterious device called the Slave Control Method (SCM). With this, according to the rumors, a person can turn someone else into a fully obedient slave. No matter the order a slave’s master gives, an SCM device will drive a person to do precisely what they are told to do. Such an item is so ridiculously fantastical, it can’t possibly exist.

Frighteningly enough, though, SCM devices are all too real.

Eia Arakawa (voiced by Hibiku Yamamura) finds herself in the middle of this world of masters and slaves. Like a disease, SCM devices begin to spread and consume users. Eia must use her quick thinking and cunning if she wishes to keep her freedom.

However, the lure of total dominion over others attracts many individuals with less than honorable motivations. SCM devices are about to start a battle of wits and deception to determine who will remain in control.

Anime Hajime Review: Grand Blue

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Grand Blue. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Iori Kitahara (voiced by Yuma Uchida) has just entered university. This is his first time out on his own, and he has taken up residence at a small diving shop he has known all his life, Grand Blue. He is ready to face a fresh beginning, and maybe, pick up a new hobby.

Within minutes of his arrival, Iori runs into the local diving club Peek a Boo and realizes he may have made a horrifying mistake.

The members of the diving club, when they are not out on the water, can be found drinking, partying, and if you're lucky, will have their pants on. Their idea of a good time is a bit overwhelming, and Iori tries to escape.

Unfortunately, Iori had already made eye contact, so there was no longer any point in running. To his chagrin, he becomes the newest member of the Peek a Boo Diving Club.

But as they say: When you can’t beat them – drink until you can’t feel feelings anymore.

Anime Hajime Review: How to Keep a Mummy

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for How to Keep a Mummy. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Sora Kashiwagi (voiced by Mutsumi Tamura) has learned to be wary whenever he receives an item from his world-traveling father. These so-called “gifts” often lead to giant headaches; as well as leave behind the occasional curse. Therefore, you can imagine Sora’s hesitation when an enormous package from Egypt arrived at his doorstep.

To his great annoyance, Sora had been given a large casket. The note attached asked Sora to take care of the thing that laid inside – a real-life mummy. Ready for the absolute worst, Sora opened the lid and to his immense shock, out rolled a small, pudgy, doll-like creature wrapped in rags (voiced by Ai Kayano).

Sora has no earthly idea what he should do next. However, unlike all the other presents he has had to deal with, this one doesn’t seem so bad. In fact, no matter how you look at it, this tiny mummy is downright adorable.

Almost instantly, the little guy starts following Sora everywhere, and the two become inseparable. Although not entirely sure how to keep a mummy, Sora is willing to try his best with his new friend, who he affectionately names Mii-kun.

Anime Hajime Review: Hanebado

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Hanebado. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

In badminton, competitors must have lightning fast reflexes, rock solid stamina, and the fortitude to stand against strong opponents. It is a sport anyone can play, but only a few will ever master it.

That said, a person would have quite the advantage if they were trained by the world’s best player since childhood.

Ayano Hanesaki (voiced by Hitomi Owada) is the daughter of the former world champion. Therefore, badminton has been her life. Or, at least, it was.

Upon entering high school, Ayano chose to abandon her passion and no longer wishes to compete. To her dismay, Ayano’s desire to give the sport up for good is challenged when she meets the members of her school’s badminton club and its ace captain Nagisa Aragaki (voiced by Miyuri Shimabukuro).

After some resistance, Ayano once again picks up her racket. However, the reason she put it down in the first place continues to haunt her already damaged psyche.

Anime Hajime Review: Slow Start

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Slow Start. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Hana Ichinose (voiced by Reina Kondo) is thrilled to finally be starting high school. Although such a sentiment is not uncommon for many first years, for Hana, she should be a second year at this point in her life.

Due to an unforeseen complication, Hana was unable to take her entrance exams, and thus, was unable to move onward with her middle school friends. For the past year, she has been diligently preparing to make up the time she has lost.

Sadly, the unfortunate thing about time is, once it passes, it doesn’t come back. Hana will have to spend the rest of her high school days slightly behind. However, this will only become a setback if she allows it to be one.

Hana isn’t starting late, she is merely starting now.

Wishful thinking aside, Hana can’t get over how awkward her situation is. She does want to make new friends, but she isn’t sure how people will react to her lost year. After all, to her classmates, Hana should be their senior.

For Hana, in the end, she needs to decide: Does that matter?

Anime Hajime Review: Caligula

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Caligula. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

For some time now, Ritsu Shikishima (voiced by Chiharu Sawashiro) has felt as if his world has been out of balance. But, how could that be? His school life is normal. His friends and relationships are normal. The beautiful voice of the famous μ — pronounced Mu (voiced by Reina Ueda) — is all normal.

Then again, on closer inspection, μ and everyone who hears her songs have been acting strangely.

Ritsu’s intuition turns out to be correct. The world he has known couldn’t be any more false. The reality is, he is one of many trapped within the “paradise” known as the Mobius.

The Mobius was created by μ in her attempt to bring happiness to as many people as possible. However, rather than solving a person’s worries, μ has only wrapped a veil over their eyes.

To μ’s confusion, there are some who cannot find happiness in such a lie.

This envisioned heaven is about to become a fierce battleground between those filled with regret and those who wish to forget. Someone like Ritsu must decide which side he is on.

Anime Hajime Review: Back Street Girls - Gokudolls

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Back Street Girls: Gokudolls. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

The infamous Inugane Yakuza group is best known for its iron-clad discipline. Anyone who makes a mistake will not be forgiven. However, they will, instead, be given a choice.

Following a recent failure, bosses Kentaro Yamamoto, Ryu Tachibana, and Kazuhiko Sugihara (voiced by Daisuke Ono, Satoshi Hino, and Kazuyuki Okitsu) must either choose death or become part of the Inugane group’s latest business venture — idol singers. Begrudgingly, the three settle for the latter.

After a quick trip to Thailand to undergo a full sex-change operation, the hardcore Yakuza men become Japan’s newest idol stars, the Gokudolls; made up of now Airi, Mari, and Chika (voiced by Yuka Nukui, Kaori Maeda, and Hikaru Akao).

Although the trio now look like beautiful young women, a face change and a new pair of breasts won’t take the gangster out of a person. Old habits die hard, and in such an opposite environment, they are sure to make a scene.

Anime Hajime Review: Mitsuboshi Colors

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Mitsuboshi Colors. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

The district of Ueno is one of the most famous, busiest, and most fascinating places in Tokyo. Within a few steps, you can traverse the hustle-and-bustle of modern urban life to the peaceful tranquility of Ueno Park. Along the way, you will pass some of Japan’s most important landmarks and institutions.

There are indeed many amazing things within this unique corner of the city.

And protecting the safety and peace of it all are the energetic defenders of justice known as the Colors.

Three young girls, Yui, Sa, and Kotoha (voiced respectively by Yuki Takada, Marika Kouno, and Natsumi Hioka) make up this lively bunch. No matter the time of year and no matter the weather, if you keep your eyes open, you are sure to see the Colors running around.

In fact, their presence is so significant, this trio is just another fantastic feature within the town of Ueno.

Anime Hajime Review: WWW.Working!!

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for WWW.Working. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Like any nationwide eatery, there are some things you can expect to be the same no matter where you are — the food, the seating, and most importantly, the service. For the family restaurant chain Wagnaria, the latter especially is no different.

Needing a way to make some extra spending money, Daisuke Higashida (voiced by Yuichi Nakamura) gets a part-time job as a waiter at his local Wagnaria. Daisuke is entirely averse to working and sees his position only as a necessary evil. Little does he know the kind of hardship he has entered.

Immediately, Daisuke sees that his fellow employees have their own unique quirks. Among the loudest of the bunch is the exceedingly hardworking, and equally abrasive, Hana Miyakoshi (voiced by Haruka Tomatsu).

Although Daisuke and Hana don’t really get along, they are among the best the restaurant has on its payroll. Plus, their constant bickering is not the most unusual thing that goes on at their quaint little establishment.

Anime Hajime Review: The Thousand Nobel Musketeers

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for The Thousand Nobel Musketeers. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

The world was almost brought to ruin after the outbreak of nuclear war. To maintain peace, a global empire rose, and it confiscated every conceivable firearm. The only weapons the Empire overlooked were the ones of the 18^th and 19^th century; the building blocks for the nations of old.

With its unchecked power, the Empire quickly became a brutal regime that began exploiting and oppressing the citizenry. To combat this evil, and in the name of the people, the Resistance was born.

In order to challenge the unbridled strength of the Empire, the Resistance uses the forgotten guns of the past and transforms them into mighty warriors known as Musketeers.

The Musketeers are the pinnacle of nobility. Their dedication to justice and to those in need is unrivaled. That burning passion will hopefully free humanity from the iron grip of its harsh rulers once and for all.

However, the Empire did not become the monster it is by ignoring threats to its authority. Thus, the ultimate battle for the future begins now.

Anime Hajime Review: Megalo Box

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Megalo Box. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

In the future, society is split between the licensed citizens of the cities and the unlicensed residents of the slums. Despite the division, one sport has risen to resonate within the hearts of everyone: Megalo Boxing.

Unlike its traditional counterpart, Megalo Boxing competitors wear specialized suits known as Gear which amplify both speed and striking power. To celebrate the sport, an unprecedented tournament is announced. Dubbed Megalonia, its purpose is to crown the undisputed Megalo Boxing champion of the world. The event is open to all licensed citizens. For unlicensed citizens, they are expected to only watch.

Such a barrier, though, is not enough to stop ambition.

An incredibly skilled but nameless, not to mention unlicensed, boxer (voiced by Yoshimasa Hosoya) has his eyes set on reaching the top. Through less than legal means, the fighter procures a fake license and takes the name Joe. With the preparations set, Joe and his team are ready to take on Megalo Boxing’s best.

Anime Hajime Review: Attack on Titan Season 3 Part 1

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Attack on Titan Season 3 Part 1. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Eren Jaeger (voiced by Yuki Kaji), his childhood friends Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlelt (voiced by Yui Ishikawa and Marina Inoue), and his other comrades of the Survey Corps' Special Operations Squad are still trying to unlock the secrets of the murderous beings known as the titans. However, in their search for answers, they have only found more questions.

Nevertheless, they feel they are close to a breakthrough. The problem is, the people in power feel the same way. Any threat to the authority must, therefore, be wiped out.

Although life behind the mighty Walls might keep the titans out, such an existence also means more dangerous monsters are lurking within. The war for humanity’s survival is about to open a newer, far more deadly front.

Be that as it may, Eren and his friends will not falter in their mission. Like their enemies, they will see their job through — by any means necessary.

Anime Hajime Impressions: Corpse Party - Blood Covered (Countdown to Halloween Part 5 of 5)

The Setup

Happy Halloween everyone.

Corpse Party – Tortured Souls is a series I have seen multiple times. I even reviewed the four episode OVA during 2018’s Pre-Blog Month (March 2018). For the longest time, something kept drawing me back to this story. Each time I made a return, I always came away with three opinions:

1. It was violent.

2. It was gory.

3. It sucked.

I do not like Corpse Party – Tortured Souls. It is a pitiful attempt at horror that tries to replace scares with blood. More than that, it was an unfortunate waste of an interesting premise, solid animation, and a talented voice cast. Having now done my official review of the series, I doubt I will ever find the urge to go back to the anime ever again.

Be that as it may, and perhaps against my better judgment, I’m still not quite ready to give up on Corpse Party yet. Deep down, part of me wants to believe there is a reason behind this franchise’s cult status beyond its sheer brutality. Nevertheless, I can’t find what I am looking for in the anime adaptation. I must look elsewhere.

Anime Hajime Review: High Score Girl

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for High Score Girl. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

It’s the 90s, and a new wave of video games are spreading across Japan’s arcades, candy stores, and shopping malls. Better graphics, tighter mechanics, and a growing pool of worthy challengers, it’s more than enough to get the competitive blood pumping. One such gamer who has been bitten by the bug is Haruo Yaguchi (voiced by Kohei Amasaki).

In his local territory, Haruo has earned a reputation as a top player. However, there is always someone stronger.

One day, Haruo is soundly crushed at his game of choice. Shockingly, his opponent is none other than his classmate Akira Oono (voiced by Sayumi Suzushiro).

As the quiet daughter of a wealthy family, Akira has the exact opposite look of the stereotypical gamer. But, don’t let that fool you. Not only can Akira play with the best, she can beat them as well.

In an instant, Haruo found a rival in Akira. After some time, though, Haruo begins to realize he may have actually found someone a lot more special.

Anime Hajime Review: How Not to Summon a Demon Lord

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for How Not to Summon a Demon Lord. Reader discretion is advised.**

Series Synopsis

Cross Reverie is one of the most popular MMORPGs on the market today. Amongst its many pre-programmed challenges and bosses, one player has risen to become a true demon lord.

Takuma Sakamoto, a.k.a., Diablo (voiced by Masaaki Mizunaka), is a shut-in loner who has mastered this particular game. Preferring solitude, he sometimes wonders if staying in this virtual world wouldn’t be a bad idea.

As they say, though: Be careful what you wish for.

Without warning the veteran gamer is summoned to a mysterious land that oddly resembles Cross Reverie. The confused man has also taken on the appearance of his avatar Diablo and has retained all his frightening powers.

Yet if that wasn’t strange enough, Diablo sees that he is surrounded by two beautiful girls — the elf Shera L. Greenwood and the pantherian Rem Galleu (voiced by Yu Serizawa and Azumi Waki).

Anime Ichiban: Top Ten Yamishibai Stories (Countdown to Halloween 4 of 5)

Introduction

What is Yamishibai?

Yamishibai is a horror anime that began airing back in 2013. Each story (episode) is based on Japanese folklore and urban legends. At five minutes a pop, these tales tell of frightening phenomenon caused by ghosts, monsters, and other, often evil, supernatural entities.

Along with horror, Yamishibai has a distinct visual style. This series’ art takes inspiration from the kamishibai method of storytelling, which uses still images to tell a narrative. As a result, Yamishibai’s animation is usually very jagged and limited.

I won’t lie: Much of this franchise is meh. On top of that, there have been some real stinkers.

HOWEVER, Yamishibai survives because every now and then, it hits the bullseye.

The problem is — as of the posting of this list — there are six seasons, a.k.a., 78 stories under the Yamishibai banner. In total, that’s over SIX HOURS of content. Who even has the time? Evidently, I do, and I’m here to make your next Halloween horror-viewing a bit more efficient.

These are the Top Ten Yamishibai Stories.

Anime Hajime Review: Happy Sugar Life

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Happy Sugar Life. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

In her life, Sato Matsuzaka (voiced by Kana Hanazawa) had no concept of love. In fact, emotions, in general, were alien to her. As far as she was concerned, the world was lifeless and void of meaning. That all changed when she met her one and only.

For some time now, Sato has been living with her beloved Shio Kobe (voiced by Misaki Kuno). The two support each other greatly and cannot imagine a life apart. Since Shio is so young, Sato must be the one to provide for the two of them. When she goes out, Sato asks Shio to do only one thing:

Never leave their apartment.

How Shio came to live with Sato isn’t entirely clear. The two are neither family nor old acquaintances, and Sato is acutely aware that people are looking for Shio. However, Sato will not allow anyone to destroy her first and only source of happiness.

By any means possible, Sato will eliminate every obstacle that tries to stand in her way.

Anime Hajime Review: Holmes of Kyoto

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Holmes of Kyoto. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Aoi Mashiro (voiced by Miyu Tomita) has recently moved to Kyoto, but her time in her new city hasn’t been a happy one. Hurtful memories of her old life continue to linger in her heart. She feels there is no one she can rely on. That sentiment changes the day Aoi wanders into a quaint little antique shop.

Standing behind the counter is a handsome young man named Kiyotaka Yagashira (voiced by Kaito Ishikawa). Like magic, Kiyotaka instantly recognizes that Aoi is not doing well, and the two form a bond. To help, Kiyotaka offers Aoi a job at his store; a proposition Aoi gladly accepts.

After a few weeks, Aoi learns of Kiyotaka’s reputation as a highly skilled appraiser. In this line of work, an antique seller’s reputation can be ruined by fake items. However, no counterfeit can fool Kiyotaka’s trained eyes. In fact, Kiyotaka’s observational and deduction skills even rival a certain world-famous nineteenth-century British detective.

The similarities are so profound, Kiyotaka has gained the title as the Holmes of Kyoto.

Anime Hajime Review: Yamishibai Season 6 (Countdown to Halloween Part 3 of 5)

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Yamishibai 6. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

It’s time to begin our sixth journey into the dark and the macabre; the strange and the creepy. Listen to the stories of the things that go bump in the night.

It’s once again time for Yamishibai.

The Stories

Thunderous Visitor – A man who hates thunder remembers his mother.

Tomonashi Cave – Four “friends” ignore a Do-Not-Enter sign and venture into a dark cave.

The Wind’s Warning – A lonely salaryman comes home, and it appears the wind is trying to tell him something.

Swamp Offering – A newlywed woman moves to the countryside and joins an ancient ritual.

The Dripping – A man gets stuck in a rainstorm on his way home and chooses to take someone else’s umbrella.

Sakura – After a car accident, a man recovers in a hospital and befriends some of his fellow patients.

Anime Hajime Review: The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (400th Review Special)

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

When you realize you are just one person out of billions, you have two options.

One: You can accept your situation.

Two: You do everything you can to stand out.

For Haruhi Suzumiya (voiced by Aya Hirano), she chose the latter in a big way.

Haruhi finds normal humans boring. If someone isn’t either an alien, a time traveler, or an esper, then she has no interest in them. The sole exception to this is Haruhi’s completely average classmate Kyon (voiced by Tomokazu Sugita).

One day during a simple conversation, Kyon inadvertently gives Haruhi the idea to form a special club. Dubbing it the Spreading Excitement All Over the World with Haruhi Suzumiya Brigade (the SOS Brigade), Haruhi plans to make the entire world a far more exciting place.

If things weren’t strange enough, they’re about to be. Haruhi manages to gain several members, along with Kyon, to join her Brigade. Little does she know her new subordinates may actually be the result of her own inner desires. After all, Haruhi believing she is at the absolute center of the universe, might not be far from the truth.

Anime Hajime Review: Jashin-chan Dropkick

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Jashin-chan Dropkick. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Which is more terrifying: A demon from the depths of Hell, or a human powerful enough to summon and control one through fear of pain?

The serpent demon Jashin (voiced by Aina Suzuki) is trapped in the human world until her summoner, Yurine Hanazono (voiced by Nichika Omori), dies. To make that day come sooner, Jashin gleefully tries to put an end to her master’s life. Too bad for her, Yurine is far smarter and far crueler than anything Hell can devise.

Essentially trapped, Jashin tries to adjust to her new life, but the nature of a demon isn’t something that just goes away. At every chance she sees, Jashin takes the opportunity to cause mischief and suffering. Every time she does this, though, Jashin happens to forget that Yurine’s wrath is always right behind her.

Nevertheless, Jashin and Yurine go about their days with an ever-growing group of friends from both Hell and Heaven. It seems the daily routines of humans, demons, and angels are not all that different on Earth.

Anime Hajime Impressions: Junji Ito Collection - Tomie (Countdown to Halloween Part 2 of 5)

The Setup

2018’s Junji Ito Collection (JIC) was garbage. I can never get back the time I spent watching it, and I highly encourage you to not waste yours.

But before I go any further, I want to reiterate something I said in my review of Junji Ito Collection.

I did not care for the anime adaptation of Mr. Junji Ito’s works. I have nothing against the man himself. I am interested in checking out Mr. Ito’s stories since the artwork and visuals for Junji Ito Collection were easily the best aspects of that series. In fact, that is part of the reason why I am doing this Impression post at all.

For those who don’t know, Junji Ito is a manga artist who specializes in horror. From what I saw in Junji Ito Collection – and I am assuming a show that used his name also used his style – Mr. Ito’s art is downright terrifying.

In his long career, Mr. Ito has penned many stories. Two that have grabbed my attention are Uzumaki and Gyo. Among his best-known work, though, is the tale of Tomie.

From what I know of the story, the titular Tomie is a beautiful woman who men desire; often to violent ends. I can’t say much more than that.

Anime Hajime Review: Asobi Asobase

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Asobi Asobase. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

What does it mean to pass the time?

Are there rules? Do you need equipment? Can you be alone, or should you have a few friends at the ready? Does whatever you end up doing even have to make sense?

All those questions are hard to answer, and perhaps, none of them can be. Nevertheless, it is the job of the Pastimers Club to figure that stuff out. Or at least, that is what the members say to keep control of their favorite meet up spot.

Three friends, Hanako Honda, Olivia, and Kasumi Nomura (voiced by Hina Kino, Rika Nagae, and Konomi Kohara) often find themselves in tricky situations they are the cause of. Apparently, there is a lot of thought and preparation that must go into doing nothing. Failure to do so may throw someone into the hospital.

Regardless, at the end of the day, this trio will make sure that doing nothing will never turn boring.