Anime Review! Waiting in the Summer (2012)

 

 Konnichiwa, Otaku Puppies! It's your boy, Jrockfreak, back with another anime deep dive. This month, we're tackling a show that promised summer romance, maybe a little sci-fi, and a whole lot of confusion, at least for me; "Waiting in the Summer," from 2012.

 So, "Waiting in the Summer," or "Ano Natsu de Matteru," kicks off with our main dude, Kaito Kirishima, a first-year high schooler who's super into film. He’s out testing his camera one night when BAM! Blue light, explosion, the whole shebang. He gets knocked off a bridge but is saved by a mysterious hand. He wakes up the next day, perfectly fine, with zero memory of how he got back. Classic anime setup, right?

Then, enter Ichika Takatsuki, a new transfer student. She’s an upperclassman, and Kaito feels this weird sense of familiarity with her. Kaito and his friends are planning to make a movie over summer break, and his buddy Tetsuro invites Ichika and her friend Remon to join the project. We also have Kanna and Mio joining the cast to round out the group.

 Right off the bat, I was intrigued. The premise screams classic anime shenanigans: summer, friends, a film project, and a mysterious girl. What more could you need? The first episode sets up the mystery pretty well. We see Kaito's camera mishap, the introduction of Ichika, and the formation of the core group. There's an instant connection between Kaito and Ichika, but there's also this underlying tension and intrigue.

Ichika is clearly hiding something and immediately is given a place to stay at Kaito's house after his sister leaves for 3 months. Then she kisses Kaito when he passes out and it was just a lot packed into a short 20 minute episode.

 But here's where things get… interesting. Episode two gives us a glimpse of Ichika's secret: she's an alien! She came to Earth searching for a specific scenery she's only seen in her imagination. Her ship crashed after hitting space debris, leaving her stranded.

Now, I’m not against sci-fi elements in my anime, but the way it was handled felt a bit clunky. The reveal wasn't super impactful, and it felt like they rushed into it. Kaito’s sister Nanami even has a dream about Kaito being hugged by a naked girl in a ball of light! Anime sure is something, huh?

 The second episode has the introduction of alcoholic drinks made by Remon, which Kanna is negatively affected by. Kaito passes out and Ichika uses a kiss to solve it. It felt so out of place but that may just be me.

Episode three focuses on Kaito's frustration over his feelings for Ichika. He tries to confess, fails, and then ditches school. Kanna visits him, and they end up on a date, which Ichika witnesses and follows. We still are not sure what the aim of the anime is or if its just a bunch of random things occuring with no over arching plot involved. There's more chaos and awkwardness that culminates in an informal confession from Kaito to Ichika when he films her.

 Episode four introduces even more complications. Manami, Tetsuro's married sister, takes Kaito shopping, causing Ichika to follow them, even teleporting using her assistant Rinon. There’s a clash, some misunderstandings, and eventually, Ichika apologizes by offering to help Kaito study for his finals.

I'm not against relationship drama, in fact it can make a anime worth watching. However, there was seemingly no clear objective of the anime which is why I could not get through it.

 So, after four episodes, I decided to drop "Waiting in the Summer." It wasn’t necessarily bad, but it felt… lacking. The plot was meandering, the characters felt like archetypes, and the sci-fi elements felt tacked on. There were moments of humor and potential, but overall, it didn't grab me.

The artwork was decent, I have to say, and the animation was good for its time, but the plot was what really killed it for me.

I am going to have to give it a 5/10, it just feels like an average anime that attempted to be unique but didn't hit the mark.

 So, what do you guys think? Have you seen "Waiting in the Summer"? Did you enjoy it more than I did? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for tuning in to the Otaku Puppy Podcast, and I’ll catch you next month with another anime adventure!

Anime Review! Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (2011)

 Hey Otaku Puppy Podcast listeners, it's jrockfreak here, and today I'm diving into a review of Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day. Now, this is one of those anime that's constantly recommended, praised for its emotional depth, and known for making even the toughest anime fans tear up. So, naturally, I had pretty high expectations going in.

The story centers around a group of childhood friends in Chichibu, Saitama, who are torn apart by the tragic death of Menma. Years later, we find the former leader of the group, Jinta, now a recluse, haunted by Menma's ghost. She needs help fulfilling a forgotten wish so she can finally move on. To do this, Jinta has to reunite his estranged friends, forcing them to confront their shared past and hidden feelings.

Now, before I get too deep, let me preface this by saying I'm a big advocate of the "three-episode rule." If an anime doesn't grab me by the third episode, I usually drop it. It's just too easy to get caught up in finishing a series out of obligation, even if you're not really enjoying it. And unfortunately, that's exactly what happened with Anohana.

Don't get me wrong, I didn't hate anything about it. The premise is intriguing, and the underlying themes of grief, friendship, and moving on are definitely there. However, the characters just weren't clicking with me. I struggled to connect with them on an emotional level, and the episodes felt somewhat bland.

I know, I know, Anohana is super highly-rated, and I can understand why people love it. The potential for a deeply moving story is definitely there. But for me, it just missed the mark. Maybe it was the pacing, maybe it was the character dynamics, but something just felt off.

The good news is, I watched the dubbed version, so I might revisit Anohana in the future and give it another try with the original Japanese audio and subtitles. Maybe a different viewing experience will change my perspective.

So, should you watch Anohana? Well, if you're looking for a potentially tear-jerking anime about friendship, loss, and second chances, it might be worth checking out. Just be prepared for a potentially slow burn. As for me, I'm putting it on the back burner for now.

That's it for my review of Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day. Let me know what you think in the comments, and until next time, happy anime watching!

Anime Review! Angel Beats (2010)

Anime Review! Angel Beats (2010)

 Alright, Jrockfreak here, back again with another anime review for the Otaku Puppy Podcast! This time, we're diving into the 2010 series, Angel Beats! Now, this is one of those shows that’s been lurking on my watchlist for ages, and I’m kicking myself for not checking it out sooner. Set in this bizarre high school in the afterlife, a sort of limbo for those who've had rough lives, Angel Beats! follows Otonashi, an amnesiac who stumbles into this rebel group called the Afterlife Battlefront, or SSS. They're led by the fiery Yuri, who's basically waging war against God for their crappy pasts. Their main target? The mysterious Angel, the student council president with crazy powers. It really does have some Suzumiya Haruhi vibes, which, for me, is never a bad thing. We get a pretty interesting cast of characters. Hinata the co-founder, Iwasawa from the Girls Dead Monster band, and the boisterous Yui. I enjoyed the cast so much, and it was very engaging.

The show does a great job of blending action with some surprisingly emotional moments. Otonashi's journey of rediscovering his memories while questioning the SSS’s actions, is really captivating. And, let's be real, Episode 10, "Goodbye Days," with Hinata's confession to Yui, that hit me right in the feels. It's a great example of the emotional depth this show can achieve. Now, I’ll admit, the middle of the series felt a bit inconsistent at times, like the pace faltered slightly. But man, the show really kicks it into high gear towards the end. The revelations about the true purpose of the afterlife, the shadow entities attacking, and Yuri's emotional breakthrough, it all works so well in bringing the story to a wonderful conclusion. The final goodbye scene between Otanashi and Kanade is so bittersweet that is had me all choked up. Overall, Angel Beats! is a fantastic watch. It’s not a total tearjerker like a Clannad, but it’ll definitely tug hard on your heartstrings. I felt it was an incredibly enjoyable anime, with loveable characters and a fascinating story. I think if you've not seen it before you should definitely add it to your watchlist!

Exploring the Pulse of Rock: A Look Back at the 2006 ONA "Be Rockin'"

 What’s up, guys? Jrockfreak here, and I’m back with another blog for you all. I hope everyone has been doing well and enjoying the anime scene this season! Today, I want to dive into a hidden Gem from 2006, an Original Net Animation (ONA) that may have slipped under your radar: Be Rockin'.

A Brief Overview

"Be Rockin'" tells the story of Shun, a passionate guitarist who has grown up with his instrument as his faithful companion. For Shun, the vibrations of rock & roll are not just music; they're a way of life. The thrill of expressing oneself through music is something he often contemplates. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he is announced a transfer to the Shanghai office by his company. While his girlfriend, Kaori, seems excited about this new chapter, Shun finds himself questioning what it truly means to live a fulfilling life.

It’s during this time of introspection that Shun crosses paths with Kyoko, a mysterious girl with a haunting past. Once an idol, she left the spotlight for personal reasons, igniting a parallel journey of self-discovery for both characters. With themes of ambition, identity, and the emotional struggles of musicianship, "Be Rockin'" presents a compelling narrative despite its shorter episode format.

The Music and Vibes

One of the first things that caught my attention while watching "Be Rockin'"—and let me just say I dove into it raw on YouTube—was the intro song. The catchy and spirited tune perfectly encapsulates the essence of rock and sets the stage for the story. That musical vibe really drew me in, even as I struggled a bit to follow the plot due to the absence of English subtitles. Each episode is relatively brief, spanning only a few minutes, but they effectively build upon the members’ journeys, showcasing their deep connection to music and how it shapes their lives.

Themes of Connection and Choice

The crux of "Be Rockin'" lies in its exploration of choices and connections. As Shun grapples with what he truly wants—whether an ordinary, happy life with Kaori or an unpredictable path fueled by his passion for music—he faces a dilemma that resonates with anyone who has ever felt torn between societal expectations and personal dreams.

Kyoko's presence serves as a catalyst for Shun’s evolution, challenging him to rethink his limitations and embrace the unknown. After all, life's not just about seeking comfort in one another; it’s about confronting our feelings and expressing ourselves, even if it leads to pain or conflict. The pair’s mutual understanding illustrates a powerful message about the beauty of shared struggles.

Is It Worth a Watch?

If you're considering checking out "Be Rockin'," it's important to note that it's a relatively short watch. I can easily say that it won't take much of your time, given its brief episodes. However, that's both a charm and a drawback; while you’ll get a quick glimpse of an engaging story, you may not feel the depth that longer series often provide.

In a way, "Be Rockin'" is a lite version of "Beck," another anime that delves deep into the world of music and band dynamics. If you're a fan of coming-of-age stories intertwined with music, you might find "Be Rockin'" a refreshing bite-sized experience worth your time.

Final Thoughts

To wrap it up, "Be Rockin'" captures the essence of youthful ambition and the struggles of self-expression in a world that often seeks to confine us. While it might not be as mainstream or elaborate as other titles out there, it still has a story to tell about guitars, passion, and the journeys we take to discover our true selves.

So, if you’re in the mood for something different, why not give it a shot? You might just find a little piece of rock & roll magic. Until next time, keep rocking and exploring new tunes!

Catch you later!

OVA Review! A-Channel + Smile (2012)

 Hello, fellow anime enthusiasts! Welcome back to Otaku Puppy, where we dive into the delightful worlds of anime and its vibrant fandom. Today, I want to shine a spotlight on the endearing OVA, A-Channel + Smile. This charming installment continues the everyday adventures of four high school girls: the whimsical Run, the carefree Tooru, the shy Yuuko, and the pragmatic Nagi. If you’re looking for a series that celebrates friendship with a mix of cute antics and heartfelt moments, this is definitely one to check out!

Everyday Escapades

From the moment you step into the universe of A-Channel, you’re met with an endearing vibe that resonates well with fans of slice-of-life anime. The characters each bring their own unique flavor to the group, creating a dynamic that's both hilarious and heartwarming. Run is the airhead of the group whose fanciful ideas often lead to lighthearted chaos. Tooru, ever the daredevil, adds a streak of unpredictability, while Nagi remains the steady voice of reason. Lastly, we have Yuuko, whose shy demeanor adds charm and sweetness to their adventures.

A Mountain of Pancakes

In the first episode, “A Mountain of Pancakes,” the action kicks off when Kitou-sensei injures her hand during class. It might seem like a small detail, but it sets the tone for the unfolding mischief. Meanwhile, Tooru shows up with her pet cat, Tansan, bringing an extra layer of fun to the school day as they introduce the feline friend to Yutaka and Miho.

Later on, our beloved girls decide to indulge in their love for pancakes at a local café, where Miho works. This is where things get a bit unpredictable. Just as they are about to enjoy their pancake feast, out of nowhere, Yutaka makes an unexpected appearance. This surprise twist leads to a series of amusing reactions and interactions that illustrate how quickly things can spiral into hilarious chaos in the world of A-Channel.

The pancake scene not only highlights the characters’ camaraderie but also serves as a backdrop for the laughter and joy of shared meals—an essential part of friendship.

A Picture of a Wish

In the second part, "A Picture of a Wish," we see a delightful change of pace. Poor Yuuko catches a cold, prompting her friends to rally around her to help through her sickness. Their caring and nurturing actions are heartwarming, reinforcing the strong bonds of friendship that are at the core of this series.

As the storyline progresses, we join the girls for a New Year’s shrine visit, moving from the cozy comfort of Yuuko’s home to the festive atmosphere of traditional Japanese culture. This transition is a beautiful reminder of the importance of celebrations in life and the significance of starting a new year surrounded by those you cherish.

The episode balances humor, warmth, and a romantic touch that keeps the audience engaged. This mix is what makes A-Channel feel like a refreshing cup of warm tea on a rainy day; it’s comforting yet delightful.

A Reflection on A-Channel

Watching A-Channel + Smile reminds me of Kiniro Mosaic, another anime that blends slice-of-life charm with quirky humor. Both series excel at creating scenarios that are relatable and enjoyable. This OVA is no exception; it's a delightful assortment of lighthearted antics that is simply good at providing genuine laughs and smiles.

As we wrap up, if you're in the mood for a series that captures the light and laughter of friendship, take some time out of your day to watch A-Channel + Smile. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, there’s always something to enjoy with these carefree characters. Until next time, keep exploring the beautiful worlds of anime!

Feel free to share your thoughts on A-Channel and what slice-of-life moments resonate with you the most! Happy watching!

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Manga Spotlight! Megane no Incubus-kun (2011)