Anime of the Year 2003-II Spring - Texhnolyze

Many titles, but still no masterpieces. Texhnolyze is the closest one, as for me

1. Kino no Tabi: The Beautiful World キノの旅 -the Beautiful World-  [A.C.G.T.] (Finished 13/13) Tags: Iyashikei, Psychological Action, Adventure, Slice of Life Kino, a 15-year-old traveler, forms a bond with Hermes, a talking motorcycle. Together, they wander the lands and venture through various countries and places, despite having no clear idea of what to expect. After all, life is a journey filled with the unknown. Throughout their journeys, they encounter different kinds of customs, from the morally gray to tragic and fascinating. They also meet many people: some who live to work, some who live to make others happy, and some who live to chase their dreams. Thus, in every country they visit, there is always something to learn from the way people carry out their lives. It is not up to Kino or Hermes to decide whether these asserted values are wrong or right, as they merely assume the roles of observers within this small world. They do not attempt to change or influence the places they visit, despite how absurd these values would appear. That's because in one way or another, they believe things are fine as they are, and that "the world is not beautiful; therefore, it is." Towns are interesting and varied, but it's still just fantasy travel genre, could never understand the appeal of it.   Overall Rating: 6/10

2. Texhnolyze  [Madhouse] (Finished 22/22) Tags: Psychological Action, Drama, Sci-Fi  In the dark underground city of Lux, people live in fear and despair under the rule of various criminal factions. Almost secluded from the surface, the gangs' only interaction with the outer world is their mining operation of "raffia," which is the raison d'être of the city. Available only in Lux, this rare substance is the basis of "texhnolyze" transplants that permit humans to replace parts of their body with cybernetic prostheses. The latter have the particularity not to trigger an immune response in their hosts and the "Class" has the privilege to conduct research on them. This elusive organization, also in charge of the raffia production, delegates its executive authority to a group called Organo led by Keigo Oonishi—a self-righteous man with texhnolyzed legs who is rumored to hear the "voice of the city." The fragile balance of powers in Lux is disturbed when a mysterious visitor named Kazuho Yoshii begins committing a series of crimes that puts the gangs at each other's throats. In the midst of the chaos, new actors emerge: Ichise, an ex-boxer mutilated by Organo and recently texhnolyzed by Eriko "Doc" Kamata; and Ran, a young florist who can see the future. While Lux steadily plunges into insanity, both Ichise and Ran find themselves involved in the greatest crisis the city has ever faced. Watching it for the third time overall now, because hardly anything is left in memory apart from cyborg angel action and gorgeous abandoned city landscapes. I definitely get visual and thematic enjoyment out of this, but not sure if can call it a masterpiece, because story itself is cluttered and not great while protagonist behaves in an irritating manner for half of the time. Basically, it's too dark and incoherent for me to be able to recommend it.   Overall Rating: 6/10

3. D.N.Angel [Xebec] (Finished 2/26) Tags: Shoujo School Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance Daisuke Niwa is a clumsy, block-headed, and wimpy middle school student who has few redeeming qualities. On his 14th birthday, he finally decides to confess his love to his longtime crush Risa Harada, but is rejected. In an unexpected turn of events, however, Daisuke finds himself transforming into Dark Mousy, the infamous phantom thief, whenever his mind is set on Risa. Though Daisuke is unaware of this strange heritage, his mother is certainly not: since before the boy was born, his mother had been planning for him to steal valuable works of art and let the name of the elusive art thief be known. With doubt and confusion constantly clouding his mind, Daisuke finds himself struggling in his relationships with classmates and family. And it is not long before Daisuke  Compilation of cheesy utter nonsense elements makes it unbearable for me.   Overall Rating: 5/10

4. Last Exile LAST EXILE（ラストエグザイル） [Gonzo] (Finished 3/26) Tags: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi  In the world of Prester, flight is the dominant mode of transportation, made possible by Claudia Fluid: a liquidized form of the crystals that are produced on the planet. An organization known solely as "the Guild" has absolute authority over the skies, with a monopoly on the engines that make use of this fluid. Moreover, as ecological disasters destabilize the warring countries of Anatoray and Disith, the Guild also arbitrates in the disputes between the two. Caught in the middle of the conflict are Sky Couriers, piloting small, two-person vanships that fly freely through the sky. Last Exile follows the adventures of two teenagers who dream of surpassing their parents: Claus Valca, son of a famous vanship pilot, and Lavie Head, Claus' best friend and navigator. Their job as couriers entails passing through an air current called the Grand Stream that separates the hostile nations, which even standard airships struggle to survive. However, when they take on a high-rated delivery to bring an orphan girl named Alvis Hamilton to the battleship Silvana, they get dragged into a much greater conflict that pits them against the might of the Guild. Children in steampunk world travel, compete with other aircrafts, get involved into some "adventures". Can't say I like anything at all here. Maybe there's some cool plot to unveil with time, but beginning episodes are absolutely daunting.   Overall Rating: 6/10

5. Konjiki no Gash Bell!! Zatch Bell! 金色のガッシュベル!! [Toei Animation] (Finished 2/150) Tags: Shounen Mythology Adventure, Comedy, Supernatural Takamine Kiyomaro, a depressed don't-care-about-the-world guy, was suddenly given a little demon named Gash Bell to take care of. Little does he know that Gash is embroiled into an intense fight to see who is the ruler of the demon world. All of the demons have to pick a master on Earth and duke it out with other demons until one survives. Needless to say, Kiyomaro becomes Gash's master, and through their many battles, Kiyomaro learns the importance of friendship and courage. Do you know who else wanted to become a king in his field? Despite a totally different setting all the major flaws of One piece are copied here with addition of unfunny comedy. Anyway, it has not gone far from a typical shounen.   Overall Rating: 5/10

6. Scrapped Princess スクラップド・プリンセス [Bones] (Finished 6/24) Tags: Mecha Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Sci-Fi Born to the royal family, Pacifica Casull has earned the nickname "Scrapped Princess" after an apocalyptic prophecy foretells her destroying the world on her 16th birthday. Rescued from certain death by a kindly family, she takes shelter with her adoptive older brother and sister, Shannon and Raquel Casull. When news of her survival reaches the ears of the God Mauser's worshippers, they issue her death at all costs, forcing Pacifica to flee for her life. Plagued by threats from the church, the nobility and even the common people, the three siblings attempt to outrun the fate Pacifica is destined to bring, all the while questioning if one girl's life is worth the world's demise. The true nature of the Scrapped Princess, along with the harrowing revelations of the world itself, becomes more and more apparent as the princess' 16th birthday fast approaches. As you see from the concept it's again journey in the company without real aim apart of wasting time till 16 years old and getting constantly attacked on the way... which is sad, because characters are ok'ish and visuals are on high enough level. Still might work with outstanding characters, but, alas. Definitely watchable, but I can't answer why I should keep going   Overall Rating: 6/10

7. Kaleido Star カレイドスター [Gonzo] (Finished 2/51) Tags: Performing Arts Comedy, Drama, Fantasy The Kaleido Stage is known throughout the world for captivating audiences with its amazing acrobatics, innovative routines, and extravagant costumes and sets. It is a place for guests to believe in magic, and Sora Naegino wants nothing more than to be a part of that magic—by becoming an acrobat for the famed circus herself. To realize her dream, she travels from Japan to California to audition for a place in the group. However, Sora learns that she needs much more than her natural talent to bring joy to the faces in the crowd. She quickly discovers just how difficult it is to be a professional performer where the stakes—and the stunts—are higher and mistakes spell danger! To put on performances worthy of the Kaleido Stage, she will need to endure rigorous training, unconventional assignments, fierce competition, and the antics of a mischievous spirit named Fool. Can Sora reach new heights, make new friends, conquer her fears, and surpass her limits to become a Kaleido Star? We've seen shoujo about a lot of activities like idol, actress, singer, dancer. So let's make another one about acrobatics and fill the airing time for the whole year... As usual, lively and good enough, but not psychologically tilt, so not for me.   Overall Rating: 6/10

8. Mermaid Melody Pichi Pichi Pitch マーメイドメロディー ぴちぴちピッチ [Actas, SynergySP] (Finished 2/52) Tags: Mahou Shoujo, Music Adventure, Comedy, Romance As the mermaid princess of the North Pacific (one of the seven mermaid kingdoms), Lucia entrusts a magical pearl to a boy who falls overboard a ship one night. Lucia must travel to the human world to reclaim her pearl and protect the mermaid kingdoms. Using the power of music Lucia is able to protect herself and the mermaid kingdoms from a growing evil force. One of the early shoujo Mako the Mermaid had a very similar concept, and there have been several idol magical girls, so it does not feel fresh, more like compilation of multiple elements, plus romance, plus humor. As usual, far from enjoyable for me .   Overall Rating: 6/10

9. Juubee Ninpuuchou: Ryuuhougyoku-hen Ninja Scroll: The Series 獣兵衛忍風帖「龍宝玉篇」 [Madhouse] (Finished 5/13) Tags: Martial Arts, Samurai Adventure, Horror, Supernatural Fourteen years after defeating the immortal warrior Himuro Genma and thwarting the Shogun of the Dark's evil plans, Kibagami Jubei continues to roam all over Japan as a masterless swordsman. During his journey, he meets Shigure, a priestess who has never seen the world outside her village. But when a group of demons destroys the village and kills everyone, Jubei becomes a prime target after acquiring the Dragon Jewel—a stone with an unknown origin. Meanwhile, Shigure—along with the monk Dakuan and a young thief named Tsubute—travels to the village of Yagyu. And with two demon clans now hunting down Shigure, Dakuan must once again acquire the services of Jubei to protect the Priestess of Light. It may be not bad, but on contrast with the movie all this loose comedy about thievery with some fighting looses completely, so just using this title without any connection to original brings lots of critique.   Overall Rating: 6/10

10. Matantei Loki Ragnarok Mythical Detective Loki Ragnarok 魔探偵ロキ RAGNAROK [Studio Deen] (Finished 3/26) Tags: Shounen Comedy, Mystery, Supernatural Loki, the Norse god of mischief, has been exiled to the human world for what was apparently a bad joke. Along with being exiled, he's forced to take the form of a child. He's told the only way he can get back to the world of the gods is if he can collect auras of evil that take over human hearts, and so to do this he runs a detective agency. Loki is soon joined by a human girl named Mayura who is a maniac for mysteries, and she soon helps out in her own way. However, soon other Norse gods begin to appear, and most have the intent to assassinate Loki for reasons unclear. Detective mystery with fighting and norse mythology. Not my genre.   Overall Rating: 6/10

11. Air Master エアマスター [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/27) Tags: Seinen Martial Arts Action, Comedy A former gymnast, Aikawa Maki has turned her skills to a different way of life—street fighting. The only thing that truly makes her feel alive is violence. With amazing power and grace, she fights opponent after opponent, repeatedly demonstrating the gymnastic talent that earns her her nom de guerre, "Airmaster." Something like Grappler Baki, female version, with more acrobatics and unofficial fights. There's no way I can enjoy this.   Overall Rating: 5/10

12. Tantei Gakuen Q Detective School Q 探偵学園Q [Pierrot] (Finished 1/45) Tags: Shounen Detective Comedy, Drama, Mystery Kyuu is your average boy with a knack for logic and reasoning. Desiring to become a detective, he finds out about the existence of the Dan Detective School (DDS); a famed school where students are allowed to bear arms. Together with Megu, a girl with photographic memory, the martial arts master Kinta, the genius programmer Kazuma and the mysterious Ryuu, Kyuu tackles many well planned out crimes, always seeking the truth. Too many detectives together, it's multiple times more boring for me than usual.   Overall Rating: 6/10

13. Ultra Maniac ウルトラマニアック [Ashi Productions] (Finished 2/26) Tags: Mahou Shoujo, School Comedy, Romance Fantasies and miracles never interested Ayu Tateishi, a popular second-year student at her middle school. She was content with preserving her image of being cool, calm, and collected—all to catch the eye of her crush, Tetsushi Kaji. Ayu's carefree youthful days are interrupted by the appearance of Nina Sakura, a new transfer student who turns out to be a witch. As the only person who knows about Nina's ability to cast spells using a mini-computer, Ayu is forced to help Nina with her mission to find the five Holy Stones, qualifying her to marry the prince of the Magic Kingdom. Unfortunately, Nina's ineptitude with magic and her habit of meddling in Ayu's personal life cause nothing but trouble for the two of them as Ayu toils to maintain her good reputation and Nina struggles to hide her secret from the discerning eye of Hiroki Tsujiai, Tetsushi's best friend and an avid fan of manga. And when Nina's search for the five Holy Stones brings allies and challengers from the Magic Kingdom, Ayu is dragged into a world she never even dreamed was possible. Reminds Marmalade boy a lot, but for some reason also incorporates magic that is used not only by heroine, but by quite some people. SOL is ok, romance average, humor below average.   Overall Rating: 6/10

14. Uchuu no Stellvia Stellvia 宇宙のステルヴィア [Xebec] (Finished 3/26) Tags: Mecha, Space Action, Romance, Sci-Fi In the year 2167, a wave of radiation released by the supernova of the nearby star Hydrus Beta caused cataclysmic damage on Earth, leaving millions dead. Now, it is the year 2356. United to rebuild Earth, humanity prepares for the supernova's second wave of destruction. In order to protect the planet from future harm, massive space colonies called "Foundations" have been built throughout the Solar System. Acting as centers for both knowledge and exploration, it is at one of these Foundations—the Stellvia—that Shima Katase applies to be a preparatory student against her mother's wishes, aspiring to see space directly with her own eyes. At the Stellvia, Katase trains to become a pilot and hopes to be selected for the "Great Mission" to shield Earth from the second wave. While she struggles with both her pilot classes and her tumultuous social life, she slowly grows into someone who might just be able to protect humanity. There have been at least three mecha lately with just training and either no actual battles or something only in the end. This is continuation of this trend, but with younger characters than usual and without needless drama over trifles. Good SOL inside training school, but there's little besides SOL, so need to like this flow from the start without hopes for something bigger.   Overall Rating: 6/10

15. Astro Boy: Tetsuwan Atom Astro Boy (2003) アストロボーイ・鉄腕アトム [Tezuka Productions] (Finished 1/50) Tags: Shounen Mecha, Super Power Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi At the Ministry of Science, fervent Professor Ochanomizu alongside his coworkers strive to reactivate Atom—the first robot with a human heart. Atom is the masterpiece of enigmatic Professor Umatarou Tenma, who built the android to replace his deceased son Tobio. However, while Tenma inexplicably shut down his brainchild and disappeared, Ochanomizu refuses to let such a major breakthrough in science go to waste. Despite having the appearance of a nine-year-old, Atom not only possesses incredible strength and intelligence, but he is also endowed with a remarkable conscience and compassion that rivals humans. Sadly, the mechanical boy soon faces rejection and learns that not everyone is as welcoming as Ochanomizu. Although automatons have integrated into society, they are accepted only as tools and even seen as an upcoming threat to mankind's dominion. Dreaming of a world where people and robots can prosper together, Atom dedicates his existence to protecting the lives of both and inspiring them to form genuine bonds. I'm glad that Astro Boy can be experienced in modern colored version, and several stories are indeed worthy. But it also brings that extremely retro feeling which can only be experienced with proper attitude.   Overall Rating: 6/10

16. Dear Boys Hoop Days ディア・ボーイズ [A.C.G.T.] (Finished 2/26) Tags: Shounen Drama, Sports Aikawa Kazuhiko was the captain of Tendoji high school prestigious basketball team. He moves into a new town to attend Mizuho high school and joins its basketball team. However, Mizuho high's basketball team is far from being prestigious, in fact, it's now defunct. Nevertheless to say, Kazuhiko's persistence, passion and basketball skills inspired other team members of the dysfunctional basketball team to gear up and start practicing again. The goal is to play in the national tournaments where all young basketball players meet their opponents to compete with them. The tale of youth of the five protagonists: Fujiwara Takumi, Ishii Tsutomu, Dobashi Kenji, Miura Ranmaru and Aikawa Kazuhiko have just began along with the live of Mizuho high school basketball team. Best basketball spokons so far like Dash! Kappei and Slam Dunk had big tilt into humor while this one has less humor and more drama. But the main disadvantage that it's unrealistic in the way of having a super player and showing off. But I don't care about spokons in first place.   Overall Rating: 6/10

17. Narue no Sekai The World of Narue 成恵の世界 [Studio Live] (Finished 2/12) Tags: Shounen Comedy, Romance, Sci-Fi  Meet Narue, an adorable schoolgirl with a secret. She's really an alien with powers right out of a sci-fi comic! But growing up is never easy, and sometimes it doesn't help when you're from outer space. Join our spunky heroine as she faces androids, alien invaders, and her first date with the boy next door. It's the sci-fi comedy that's a direct hit to your heart! A mix of a many elements spiced generously with absurdism. The school romcom SOL is typical, and  aliens stuff only adds chaos.   Overall Rating: 5/10

18. E's Otherwise エスアザーワイズ [Pierrot] (Finished 3/26) Tags: Shounen Military Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Sci-Fi, Supernatural Kai, who has powers different from the rest, together with his sickly sister Hikaru was protected by an organization called ASHURUM. Scouted by Eiji, Kai was delegated to the ASHURUM special force AESES and undergo intensive training. Whenever he was free, Kai visited Hikaru at the hospital belongs to the organization, but Hikaru's condition never improved. So, one year later, with amazing growth from the intensive training, Kai decides to escape from the organization. Of course e's had to mean espers. Protagonist realizes evil ways of his employer and confronts former friends. Story itself is nothing new, but has enough potential and action opportunities, though heavily depends on execution. And there's not enough effort put into quality here to shine.   Overall Rating: 6/10

19. Gad Guard ガドガード [Gonzo] (Finished 3/26) Tags: Mecha Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Several hundred years in the future, the resources of the Earth runs out, and the progression of the human race has stagnated. The world is now divided into "Units." A boy named Hajiki Sanada lives with his mother and sister in Unit 74, in a place called "Night Town," in which all electricity is shut down at midnight. The key in this story is an object called the GAD. GADs have the ability to reconstruct materials while reacting to feelings of an organic life. The size and shape of the resulting product seem to be different depending on the kinds of feelings that the life possesses. When Hajiki comes in contact with one by accident, it transforms into a huge robot—a Tekkoudo, or "Iron Giant"—which Hajiki names Lightning. And soon he realizes that he isn't the only one with a Tekkoudo, and must find out how to deal with those others who he feels are the "same" as himself. As studio's original story, it's easy to predict the loose middle and real plot elements pushed to the end. The core is just random adventures of children who laid hands on a high tech weapon in a crime town, and even if I'm generous it's only decent.   Overall Rating: 6/10

20. Ningen Kousaten Human Crossing 人間交差点 [A.C.G.T.] (Finished 2/13) Tags: Drama, Slice of Life, Sports  Though seemingly unconnected, the characters in HUMAN CROSSING all have something in common. They are dealing with the sometimes joyous, but often horrific realities of everyday life. Set in modern day Japan, this compilation of short stories explores the lives of people from all walks of life. The animation used here is subtle, with realistic renderings that fully express the range of emotions experienced by the film`s characters. HUMAN CROSSING taps into the dramatic potential of reality, focusing on the isolated, sometimes lonely nature of urban life. Ultimately, however, the film suggests that perhaps there is an inter-connectedness between people that binds even the most disparate strangers together. Anthology about simple stories with complex details of grown-ups which get interconnected by the end. I don't like anthologies and such format and don't find it entertaining or useful.   Overall Rating: 6/10

22. Mousou Kagaku Series: Wandaba Style 妄想科学シリーズ ワンダバスタイル  [TNK] (Finished 2/12) Tags: Comedy, Sci-Fi Genius scientist Tsukumo Susumu knows each and every single theory behind aerodynamics that exists on earth despite being only 13 years old. He wants to travel to the moon without the use of fossil fuels that power rockets. So begins his heavy research using his knowledge in the laws of physics, scientific theory and his wild imagination. His test subjects are the unpopular idol group Mix JUICE (Himawari, Yuri, Ayame, Sakura). They come up with all sorts of crazy ideas to become the first humans to successfully hold a concert on the face of the moon. Will the four girls from Mix JUICE be able to struggle their way to the moon successfully? Comedy is too crazy and childish for me. Failed to catch its vibe to enjoy.   Overall Rating: 6/10

23. Submarine Super 99 サブマリン スーパー９９ [Vega Entertainment] (Finished 3/13) Tags: Shounen Military Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Dr. Oki , the genius scientist who designed a new type of submarine is missing. His son, Susumu, smells an evil scheme of unknown group. He knows everything of his father's submarine called "Super 99" – equipment, weapons, functions and capacity. Susumu thinks that to find his father is to reveal the secret organization, Helmet Party, and stop their conspiracy. With the help of his friends and Marine Corps, he sets out to an underwater quest, not knowing how dangerous his endeavour is… All this Leijiverse with side stories and recycled characters is getting tiresome and irritating. This time it's getting closer to shounens, and submarine instead of spaceship tones the scale down.   Overall Rating: 5/10

24. Firestorm FIRESTORM　ファイアーストーム  [Trans Arts] (Finished 2/26) Tags: Mecha, Military Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi It is the year 2104 AD. The terrible war is over and peace seemed close in the world. However, there is one thing that can bring down this peace. That is the criminal organization who's power and actions are widespread across the world... The Black Orchid. From the main countries of the world, the "Storm Force" was formed to take down the Black Orchid. They are also known under the code name "Fire Storm". Baddies fulfil evil plans only to be defeated each time by goodies. For me every second mecha is this way, so can't even criticize it.   Overall Rating: 5/10

25. Jikuu Boukenki Zentrix Zentrix 時空冒険記　ゼントリックス [Imagi] (Finished 1/26) Tags: Mecha Adventure, Sci-Fi The series is set in Zentrix City, a seemingly "perfect" city. Emperor Jarad is a scientist who with the help of scientists Dr. Roark and Dr. Coy, created a super-computer called OmnicronPsy, which manages all of the city's higher and day-to-day functions, controlling a wide variety of machines and robots, allowing humankind to live a seemingly "perfect" life. However OmnicronPsy, using His super-intelligence, decides that it would make a better ruler than Jarad, and starts to break down the coding that stops him from revolting and harming the Royal Family. Discovering this, Jarad and Dr. Roark head back in time 7 years to stop the revolt from ever happening. To accomplish this they plan to shut down the six Zentrium chips that power OmnicronPsy. Upon discovering this, Jarad's daughter and only heir, Princess Megan, proceeds to follow him to the past while OmnicronPsy concurrently undoes his restriction codes and sends his Robo Guards to hunt her down. Horrible full 3D and there's only official dub version, because no one cares to sub it. Safe childish bland mecha adventure with time travel.   Overall Rating: 5/10

26. Bouken Yuuki Pluster World Adventure Hero Pluster World 冒険遊記プラスターワールド [Actas, Brain's Base] (Finished 1/52) Tags: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi  According to the legend, the once peaceful "Pluster World" plunged into chaos and darkness due to the manifestation of the evil MINASUTA. At that time, selected Plusters were combined with humans, and successfully sealed away the evil MINASUTA. It was then believed that the peace which had returned would continue forever. Greenery and trees filled the land, flowers bloomed everywhere, living creatures soar in the blue sky, run on the land, and swim in the seas. However, this peacefulness was once again lost due to reappearance of the MINASUTA... Now, the fusion of Plusters and Humans once again opens the door for a hot adventure! Not translated to English, but aired in arabic, for example, as it's a safe show for kids that's not marked properly by MAL.   Overall Rating: 5/10

27. Mugen Senki Portriss 無限戦記ポトリス [Sunrise, Dongwoo A&E] (Finished 1/52) Tags: Mecha Action, Sci-Fi In a raving world, legendary knights stood up. Will they become gods of war or world saviors? Three Portriss Knights and sole human boy are now going to change the World! Portriss Planet, home of where robots live in peace. However, this peacefulness was ruined by the sudden appearance of a Dictator "Dark Portriss". Dark Portriss plans to attain infinite powers through the use of the "Space-time destroying Cannon". The only ones able to stop this are the Portriss Knights! A boy, Yuuma, accidentally got into the Portriss World, and the Portrisses` adventure begins! Only partially translated, it seems. Korean anime is still way too childish compared to older brother, again not properly marked.   Overall Rating: 5/10

28. Wonder Bebil-kun ワンダーベビルくん [Radix] (Finished 3/30) Tags: Comedy, Fantasy  Bevil-kun, who lives in Wonderland, decided to go out into the human world and live with Ryota in order to set a good example for human beings by his father who wanted to keep his position as a monster. Not translated. MAL incorrectly shows episode length as full while it's just 7 minutes. It's just another Doraemon imitation for kids.   Overall Rating: 5/10

29. The Animatrix アニマトリックス [Madhouse, Studio 4°C, Square Pictures] (Finished 9/9) Tags: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi  1. Final Flight of the Osiris The crew of the Osiris discover an army preparing to invade Zion. While one crew member races inside the Matrix to get the message to Zion, the others try desperately to buy her enough time while fighting off an onslaught of Sentinels they can't possibly defeat. 2-3. The Second Renaissance Part 1 and 2 Humans have created the ultimate AI, which is just as smart as they are. But complications arise when these robots and the humans try to exist peacefully, and eventually all-out war breaks out. The humans ultimately lose the war, and become trapped in the Matrix as seen in the live-action films. 4. Kid's Story A young man discovers that his world isn't real, that it's a computer-generated fantasy land created by robots using humans for energy. He escapes with the help of the hacker Neo. Based on the Matrix trilogy. 5. Program Cis and Duo engage in battle in a virtual recreation of Feudal Japan. 6. World Record While running the fastest race in his life, a champion track star breaks free of his computer-generated world for a small period of time. When he goes back to the real world, he has no memories and is placed in a nursing home. Based on the Matrix trilogy. 7. Beyond While looking for her lost pet, a young woman meets up with some kids in Tokyo to play in a "haunted house," which is really a glitch in their computer world. Based on the Matrix trilogy. 8. Detective Story A detective named Ash is called upon by a mysterious organization to hunt down the notorious hacker Trinity. 9. Matriculated A group of scientists capture a robot and place it in a surreal fantasy world. When the robot's friends come in and kill most of the scientists; however, the robot and the last scientist remaining face isolation in the computer-generated world. Based on the Matrix trilogy. It's anthology made partly in 3D lasting for 9 episodes 9 minutes each, so it's already impossible to compete for a masterpiece score. It's basically a fandisc as some stories provide new details for the movies, others are just fantasies with familiar characters or even just around some familiar phenomenon. I'm not a big fan of the original, and these stories did not look significant for the story to me.   Overall Rating: 6/10

30. Eiken: Eikenbu yori Ai wo Komete Eiken エイケン エイケンヴより愛をこめて [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/2) Tags: Harem, School Comedy, Ecchi Zashono Academy is a massive educational institution with over thirty-five thousand students enrolled across all grades. It is here that the plain and unpopular Densuke Mifune enrolls in high school. While he looks forward to blending into the crowd, circumstances change when he runs into Chiharu Shinonome, an incredibly attractive and intelligent girl who has captured the attention of all the students at the school. Witnessing the encounter between the two, Kirika Misono pressures them into joining her mysterious "Eiken Club" to compete in the school's annual club tournament. The tournament causes Densuke to become more intimate with his fellow club members, but will he be able to maintain his composure or will he give in to their bold advances? Fast-paced short fanservice comedy fantasy about breast size. It's clearly of fetish nature and should only be tried with corresponding affinity.   Overall Rating: 4/10

31. Parasite Dolls パラサイトドールズ [AIC] (Finished 3/3) Tags: Detective, Gore, Mecha Action, Sci-Fi A secret unit of the AD Police, known as Branch, specializes in crimes involving humanoid robots called 'Boomers'. Branch officer Buzz must cope with having a Boomer for a partner, while officer Michaelson finds the line between human and robot to be a thin one. Together they serve to protect a world that is slowly deconstructing around them. Set in the Bubblegum Crisis universe. Original A.D. Police was not great, and despite different pair of protagonists Parasite Dolls feels only slightly better as it's pure case investigation without police routine. It clearly tries to imitate Ghost in the Shell while remaining in Bubblegum Crisis world, and result is really decent, but due to lack of attention to protagonists, fast pace and lack of details it does not become engaging.   Overall Rating: 6/10

32. Hitsuji no Uta 羊のうた  [Madhouse] (Finished 2/4) Tags: Vampire Drama, Horror Kazuna's family has a history of suffering from a disease that creates an uncontrollable vampire-like thirst for blood. Knowing none of this, Kazuna was sent to live with the Eda couple as a child. As the sickness begins to show signs of being present within himself, he comes into contact with his older sister, Chizuna, who has been suffering from it since early childhood. Knowing that the sickness incurs a heavy weight upon those that suffer from it, Chizuna tries to ease her brother's burden, to help him learn to control his urges, but... Concept already looks like a bore to me, but it incorporates slow pace, distraction to details, flashbacks and scenes that add very little apart of some supposed emotions. If you like vampires, suspense or mystery it will probably be a treat, but it's three misses for me, and poor visuals alongside depressed atmosphere make it unbearable.   Overall Rating: 5/10

33. Guardian Hearts がぁーでぃあんHearts [Venet] (Finished 1/6) Tags: School Comedy, Romance, Ecchi Maya, Kurusu, and Chelsea hit it off really well when trying to get revenge on Guardian Hearts for making them suffer. Maya and company thought that Guardian Hearts usually appears when Kazuya is getting along with a girl. Not knowing that Guardian Hearts is actually Hina, they leave her alone with Kazuya in an attempt to lure Guardian Hearts. Only good if you're in mood to watch light ecchi nonsense.   Overall Rating: 5/10

34. Lingerie Senshi Papillon Rose Papillon Rose OVA ランジェリー戦士パピヨンローゼ [Studio Kelmadick] (Finished 1/1) Tags: Mahou Shoujo, Parody Sci-Fi, Ecchi Tsubomi is a savvy and horny school girl who works at a lingerie club, a gentlemen's bar where scantily clad young women serve drinks to the patrons. She is useless at her job but is blackmailing her boss so she won't get fired. One day she runs into a gorgeous young man who she takes to bed. She meets into a perverted talking cat with a butterfly on its forehead, who recruits her to be a magical soldier. She has to fight off a dominatrix elf woman called Beene, a minion of Regina Apis, a matriarch bent on chaos and forming her new Dynasty. Tsubomi is learning of her powers when she is rescued by an oddly familiar masked man, known only as Dandelion. The plot of this anime is completely farcical and parodies the magical girl genre and Sailor Moon in particular. Short ecchi parody on Sailor Moon.   Overall Rating: 4/10

35. Mizuiro (2003) みずいろ (2003) [OLM] (Finished 2/2) Tags: Drama, Romance, Supernatural  Brother and younger sister-in-law live in the house which parents are often away from. Yuki who is the younger sister is secretly yearning for Kenji who is the elder brother. However, one girl came to show up from the closet in Kenji's room after a certain night. Moreover, her body is transparent, and she looks like the ghost. Her name is Hiyori. She is a friend in their childhood. They are pleased with reunion though Kenji and Yuki are perplexed with the way of Hiyori's strange appearance. However, Yuki gets the mind shaken as Kenji and Hiyori become intimate, and the pain in her mind in the childhood is recalled. At the childhood, Yuki was going to pass the light blue toy ring which Kenji had had to Hiyori in exchange for Hiyori's yoyo. However, because Hiyori became sick, and had moved, the promise was not an accomplishment. Their events in the childhood seem to be related to Hiyori's showing up in front of them. A painful love story of Kenji and two girls progresses. A normal triangle romance drama with aim to squeeze a tear or two.   Overall Rating: 6/10

36. Futari no Joe ふたりのジョー [Office AO] (Finished 1/6) Tags: Shounen Combat Sports Joe Yuki, one of the coolest DJs in Shibuya, has a secret identity as the leader of gangs. Because of his traumatic childhood, he fiercely hates "weaklings" and sees winning as his only option in life. One night, an old man is being taunted by the kid known as "the human punching bag." The old man reminds Joe of his parents and childhood, and he uncontrollably challenges the kid to a fight. A fight in which he's defeated, and his pride is utterly shattered into pieces. I see it as trying to parasite on Ashita no Joe name , but with two protagonists and only six episodes having to resort to simplifications. Since I'm not interested in spokons, no will to sample it further.   Overall Rating: 6/10

37. Alexandros no Ketsudan Alexander's Decision アレクサンドロスの決断 [Toei Animation] (Finished 0/1) Tags:  Historical  King Alexander of Macedonia and his troops are at war with the armies of Persia. When he suddenly falls ill, Alexander is faced with a decision: to trust his life-long Persian friend Philip and accept his help or treat him as an enemy because he is Persian. Only dubbed version found. Finally normal visuals unlike previous season and movie about Alexander. It's indeed difficult to stay impartial when father is betrayed and killed before one's eyes and letters warning of spies are arriving. Having received Aristotelean training, it can be assumed that he will take a good decision, but intrigue still remains of how it all ends. A good example how a historical story should look like, but with current length and pace it's not exactly masterpiece material.   Overall Rating: 6/10

38. Oseam 오세암 [-] (Finished 1/1) Tags: Adventure, Drama  The animation is based on the fairy tale of the same name with the local sale over 100,000 copies by Jeong Chae-bong, a writer well known for his innocent and heart-stirring tales. It is a story about two orphans, Gil-son, a five-year-old boy, and his blind sister Gam-i who are brought up by a charitable monk at a secluded temple in Mt. Seorak. Gil-son, a mischievous boy, is the guide for this hour-long travel in search of innocence. Having a pure heart, he befriends all living things and communicates with clouds, birds and flowers. One snowy day, however... Using already successful material and going harsh rural childhood way is not a bad decision for still young Korean animation that's only starting to get serious. Still the best praise I can give is adequate as serious Korean drama for some reason always deals with some disability, fed up with that already.   Overall Rating: 6/10

39. Crayon Shin-chan Movie 11: Arashi wo Yobu Eikou no Yakiniku Road 映画 クレヨンしんちゃん 嵐を呼ぶ栄光のヤキニクロード [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 1/1) Tags: Seinen Action, Adventure, Comedy A slapstick comedy going back to the basic, "laughable" style of the TV series. One day, the Nohara family was looking forward to having an ultra-rich yakiniku dinner, but they were put on the Wanted List on suspicion of heinous crimes because of a scheme of a mysterious organization named Sweet Boys. The Nohara family must run from Sweet Boys' pursuit but to eat yakiniku for dinner they need to stop escaping and decide to meet the boss of Sweet Boys, who is based in Atami (a hot spring/resort city in Shizuoka Prefecture). The whole movie is about running away... that's not funny, just simple action humor.   Overall Rating: 5/10

Share this: