kivandopulus's Content - Page 7 (2024)

Anime of the Year 1994-II Spring - Tottemo! Luckyman

By kivandopulus, October 13, 2022

Anime of the Year

Failed to find masterpieces in Spring 1994, so I'd prefer to highlight a decent work in need of translation -Tottemo! Luckyman1.Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon SSailor Moon S 美少女戦士セーラームーン S[Toei Animation] (Finished 3/38)Tags:ShoujoMahou ShoujoDrama, RomanceThe Sailor Guardians and their leader, Sailor Moon, continue their duty of protecting Earth from any who would dare cause it harm. However, Sailor Mars' apocalyptic visions and the appearance of two new guardians—Sailor Neptune and Sailor Uranus—signal that a new battle will soon begin.These newcomers seek three Talismans that are inside the Pure Heart Crystals within human beings. Once brought together, these objects form The Holy Grail, a magical relic with extraordinary abilities. They want to use the Grail to save the world, but an evil organization known as the Death Busters seeks its power for their own desires.The removal of a Talisman from a person's Heart Crystal will cause their death, something that Uranus and Neptune see as a necessary sacrifice to form the Grail, while Sailor Moon and her group deem it unforgivable. But can any sacrifice be worth the cost if it saves the lives of the entire human race?It's nice that first episode shows a plot move this early, not so good that next two episodes are fillers as usual. Overall, usual Sailor Moon level.Overall Rating: 6/102.Mobile Fighter G Gundam機動武闘伝Gガンダム [Sunrise] (Finished 3/49)Tags:Martial Arts, Mecha, SpaceAdventure, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi, SportsIn the year Future Century 0060, the many countries that once comprised Earth's surface exist as separate colonies floating in space. Their home planet now uninhabitable, the ruler of all of the colonies is decided by their unanimous participation in the intergalactic Gundam Fight Tournament—a series of battles between the champions of each colony to determine who is most fit to reign over them all.Neo-Japan's champion is Domon Kasshu, a man who accepts the role with some ulterior motives. Domon searches the galaxy for his brother, a criminal who allegedly murdered their mother and made off with the Devil Gundam, a highly advanced weapon with the power to unleash mass destruction across the galaxy. In his quest to bring his sibling to justice, Domon travels from colony to colony, meeting many of the fighters who will become his allies and enemies in the forthcoming Gundam Fight Tournament.Armed with the strength of the Shining Gundam, Domon battles to uncover the truth behind his tortured childhood, suffering great betrayal and crushing blows on his quest toward personal and national triumph.You would not believe, but Sunrise finally changed something after so many attempts. Now it feels like battle shounen with slightly older protagonist. Still childish and silly, but with such tempo can rise to decent in a thousand years.Overall Rating: 5/103.Marmalade Boyママレード・ボーイ [Toei Animation] (Finished 3/76)Tags:ShoujoComedy, Drama, RomanceMiki Koishikawa is a high school student who enjoys a very simple life. However, her ordinary life is about to be turned upside down, and she may not be able to handle everything that is coming her way.After a very "fun" holiday in Hawaii, her parents have decided to get a divorce. As if this wasn’t enough of a shock for the poor girl, she also discovers that they will soon be re-marrying and swapping partners with another couple who they met on holiday. In order to include Miki in this shocking turn of events, they ask her to give the new couple a chance, and set up a dinner date with everyone. Miki may have tried to be emotionally prepared for her new parents, but what she was not expecting was their handsome son Matsuura Yuu.Miki develops an instant crush for Yuu. What starts off as a lovely friendship between them soon develops into romantic feelings which they are both finding hard to control. But more trouble is ahead in their relationship, as both Miki and Yuu have admirers of their own who are trying very hard to keep them separated.Shoujo is hit on miss depending on characters personalities. Both are from middle school and kinda standard. Such basic shoujo focusing only on school romance was needed, but let's move on to more complex shojo already.Overall Rating: 5/104.Ginga Sengoku Gunyuuden RaiGalaxy Warring State Chronicle Rai銀河戦国群雄伝ライ [E&G Films] (Finished 5/52)Tags:ShounenSpaceAdventure, Romance, Sci-FiRai is a space opera that fuses feudal Chinese and Japanese customs with vast galaxy spanning empires and space-going societies. The story follows the life and times of the samurai Rai, and the quest of several spacefaring factions for control of territory and, of course, the Empire.Chinese customs Sengoku space opera with samurai. Did I miss anything? Add to that immature shounen samurai Rai, and the seriousness of the whole enterprise is put under huge question. Since it's unserious, let's compare it with another similar series Irresponsible captain Tyler. Tyler had charismatic team of characters , good humor, unexpected moves , logical narration. Rai has couple shallow occasionally showing up heroines and immature Rai, everyone else including enemies is either bland or unmemorable. Space battles here are depicted as one side just shooting at the other side, thus winning. We're getting thrown to war without any explanation or exposition. For some reason there's the need of constant down-to-earth samurai skirmishes on the planets. No humor spotted. So what we're supposed to do is watch different fights and different characters talking and as it repeats over and over make some sorts of conclusions out of it. It's a flawed approach from the start and with such horrible directorship and mediocre characters I fail to understand how people can like it.Overall Rating: 5/105.Red Baronレッドバロン [Tokyo Movie Shinsha] (Finished 3/49)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, MechaAction, Sci-Fi, SportsIn the future, the "Metal Fight" games are the most popular televised sport in the world and many robot contestants compete for the title of Best Metal Fighter in the World. Kurenai Ken, along with teammate Saeba Shoko (who was, at first, adamant), pilots the Super Robot Fighter, Red Baron and enters the contest with dreams of becoming its champion. He must, however, face an army of other rivals from around the world including Kaizer (who is, in fact, Shoko's supposedly "lost" father, Tetsuo Saeba), the Tetsumen Tou ("Iron Fist" - a reference to the original Red Baron TV series) doctors, Tiger and ShinRon.It's better than average Sunrise mecha, but that is true for pretty much any mecha already. There's immature genki protagonist, some kind of female and mascot companions and even some humor - would suit kids just fine.Overall Rating: 5/106.Shirayuki Hime no DensetsuThe Legend of Snow White白雪姫の伝説 [Tatsunoko Production] (Finished 3/52)Tags:Adventure, Fantasy, RomanceSnow White was a very happy princess, until the day her stepmother, the Queen Christelle, finally reveals her personality and wants to kill the girl. Snow White flees from the castle and got lost in the woods, where she meets seven dwarfs.Since when does a fairy tale take 52 episodes? Anyway, there's only official dub as story is totally childish and safe . It's also safe from anything even remotely interesting as any work for kids.Overall Rating: 4/107.Haou Taikei Ryuu KnightLord of Lords Ryu Knight覇王大系リューナイト [Sunrise] (Finished 3/52)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, FantasyAdeu the Sonic, brash young pilot of the Ryu Knight Zephyr, is joined in his travels by Princess Paffy, Priest Izumi and Ninja Sarutobi. They encounter various people of the land, including other Ryus. On the way, Adeu seeks to test his Ryu against others and thereby grow in his abilities.Another attempt to merge fantasy with mecha. It feels like imitation of some final fantasy game as there are even sort of chokobo here. It actually might work with any other company, but Sunrise turns it into another kids parody with chibi designs and cheap humor that only they seem to understand.Overall Rating: 4/108.Tottemo! Luckymanとっても！ラッキーマン [Pierrot] (Finished 3/50)Tags:ShounenGag Humor, Super PowerComedy, Sci-FiThis gag comedy series focused on the adventures of a bizarre superhero powered by special cooking and fights against various aliens and other enemies threatening the planet Earth.Not translated. It's a drawn in a childish way superhero parody, but since it's parody can be amusing. Also Luckyman is sort of pervy and uses below the waist hits a lot, so can't call it a show for kids. If anything, it's definitely more fun than Kinnikuman and thus deserved translation much more than Kinnikuman. And it's only the second anime I know that has those great Maruko-chan style narrator comments. Cool stuff.Overall Rating: 6/109.Yamato Takeruヤマトタケル [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/37)Tags:ShounenMecha, SpaceAction, Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-FiIn the 25th century, a spaceship carrying 300 people leaves the earth in search of a new world in the solar system, but an unexpected accident occurs. They crash into a black hole which is connected to another universe. The people on the ship are cast adrift in an emergency capsule to a planet called Ismo. The story begins 12 years after they have reached Ismo.Ismo is a star of the Onam System, which corresponds to the Solar System in our universe. It is the only planet left in the Onam System. The Death Star called Yomi is a comet which regularly approaches the Onam System.There were once 8 planets in the Onam System. Many years ago, in the time of the gods, there was a war against the evil monster Yamatano Orochi (an 8-headed snake-like creature). The gods won the battle. Yamatano Orochi was locked into 8 stones, one of which is buried deep in the center of each planet. Nobody was supposed to have access to the core of the planets. However Tsukuyomi, an evil god who rules Yomi, succeeded in reaching the stones one after another, destroying 7 of the planets using his powerful robots, the Sky Warriors. However, when he tried to acquire the last stone from the planet Ismo, the most powerful Sky Warrior, Susanoo, got out of control and was blown away.A million years later, the Death Star Yomi is approaching the Onam System once again. Tsukuyomi, the master of Yomi, plans to take this opportunity to realize his dream of ruling the entire universe. He is desperate for the last stone containing Yamatano Orochi. If Tsukuyomi can get hold of this stone, Yamatano Orochi will return to life and its power will become his. Tsukuyomi needs Sky Warrior Susanoo to capture the stone, and sends 8 Sky Soldiers to get Susanoo back. But it is too late. Susanoo no longer belongs to Tsukuyomi. It belongs to Takeru, a 13-year-old boy from Earth, who happened to discover the buried robot Susanoo and woke it from its million-year-long sleep. Takeru becomes involved in the battle against the Sky Soldiers and their evil master, Tsukuyomi. Susanoo stands up to protect his friends and their planet.It feels like shounen adventure with swords, but when giant robots show up our trump card is summoned. Protagonist is a normal genki cheeky brat, so there's hardly anything to discuss here.Overall Rating: 5/1010.Chou Kuse ni NarisouI'll Make a Habit of It超くせになりそう [Studio Kyuuma, Studio Kikan, Azeta Pictures] (Finished 3/39)Tags:ShoujoCrossdressing, SchoolComedy, Romance, Slice of LifeShiratori Nagisa is a pink haired singing idol, continually badgered by her father to find new disciples for the family dojo. In an attempt to gain free-time as a normal kid, she cuts her hair and cross-dresses as a high-school boy. "Ootori Nagisa" enrolls in a run-down school, falling in love with a rival school's gang leader, Nosaka Akira. She soon finds out Nosaka-kun is a fan of Nagisa - The Idol. Keeping up the charade, they manage to sneak time together. Rivals for Nagisa's affection, BOTH their dojo-running fathers, as well as martial artist animals and an up-in-coming Idol conspire to make thier lives a complicated as possible.Childish protagonist, unserious mood, lots of boys love allusions due to trap nature of the anime... does not cut it for me at all.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Goal FH: Field HunterGoal Field HunterゴールFH (フィールド・ハンター) [Image Kei] (Finished 3/39)Tags:Action, SportsThe story is about Hikaru Tatsumura who came from Brazil to fulfill his dream to be a great soccer player because he met a great player once who was admired by all people. However Tatsumura is a very cheerful person and easy going except when it is about soccer. He becomes serious and strong. He also gives a unique performance such as doing a funny dance with his buddy after he makes a goal. Tatsumura will face a lot of challenges with his team while aiming for success.Not translated. There's enough horizontal interaction , SOL , comedy and protagonist maturity to rival other soccer spokons, but since it's not translated - who cares. I certainly don't.Overall Rating: 6/1012.Montana Jonesモンタナ・ジョーンズ [Studio Junio] (Finished 3/52)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, Comedy, MysteryBoston, 1930: Montana Jones and his cousin professor Alfred Jones travel around the world to search lost treasures in order to bring them to museums. Alfred's mentor professor Gerrit helps them by sending LPs with information. On one trip they meet Melissa, a wealthy reporter, who speaks nearly all languages. She accompanies the two on their trips. Their opponent is Lord Zero, a rich, bizarre art lover and master thief. Lord Zero has two henchmen: Slim and Slam. There is also the inventor Dr. Nitro, who invents strange engines, which to help finding treasures.Only three episodes are translated. Art gives out Disney vibes. Substance is also similar as it's some adventure, and there is usually some competition with the antagonists. Something I saw in DuckTales many times. It's more mature, of course, as there are no infant heroes and no characters are placed just for comedy relief like Donald Duck, but I still see no way how anyone but kids would want to watch it.Overall Rating: 5/1013.Soccer Feverサッカーフィーバー [Tokyo Movie Shinsha] (Finished 3/51)Tags:Historical, Team SportsTogether with the hero of this series, Brian Thompson an ex-reporter, we get to relive the great games of the Football World Cup.The story begins with the first selection which took place in Uruguay 1930 until 1994 when it was held in the United States. We also get a depiction of Thompson's life from his youth until now.We also see the game brilliantly reborn through spectacular players like Franz Beckenbauer, Müller Gard, Eusebio and the greatest of them all, Pelé.Not translated. It feels like World Masterpiece Theater series (though it's not) with soccer theme. That's a fresh and historical look, which deserves praise. But since I don't have soccer fever, it's not for me to discuss.Overall Rating: 6/1014.Iria: Zeiram The Animationイ・リ・アゼイラム The [Ashi Productions] (Finished 6/6)Tags:SpaceAction, Adventure, Sci-FiIria is the story of a girl and the Alien being she loves to hate. The series begins with her brother, Gren, taking a job. He is a bounty hunter, and one well known for his incredible skill. Iria, being a skilled apprentice bounty hunter herself, tags along. What is the job, one might ask. It is to find out what has happened to the crew and cargo of a Space Station. Needless to say, nothing is as it seems, and the war between Iria and Zeiram begins in earnest.Basically, it's a nice action story, but stretched too long, with annoying kids to accompany at certain points and with poorly written motivation of the sides of conflict.Overall Rating: 6/1015.Shin Cutey HoneyNew Cutey Honey新・キューティーハニー [Toei Animation] (Finished 8/8)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi, EcchiCosplay City is in danger when the evil Dolmeck shows up. Commanding his army of monsters, he plans on destroying everything. Only one person can stop this: Cutey Honey. After she is released from her dormancy, Honey Kisaragi becomes the multi-transformational android Cutey Honey. However, the least is expected when Honey is faced with an old enemy from the past: Panther Zora.Main disadvantage is that it lacks comedy since it's not made by Gainax... yet! As of now it mostly repeats ancient prequel with emphasized action and ecchi. Sadly, no real story value here.Overall Rating: 6/1016.Dengeki Oshioki Musume Gootaman: Gootaman Tanjou-henButt Attack Punisher Girl Gautaman臀撃おしおき娘ゴータマン～ゴータマン誕生篇 [animate Film, Studio Kikan] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ParodyAction, Comedy, EcchiMari Amachi is a very devout Christian who transfers to Perfect Religion Academy. A school devoted to all religions of the world in effort to make it's students the next world leaders in religion. Her friend Saori is kidnapped by the Black Buddha cult; a group who wishes to take away religious freedom though force and brainwashing. Mari prays to God for help but Buddha answers the call, instead! Mari aspires only to help her friend and she is transformed into Butt Attack Punisher Girl Gotaman. Between fighting bad guys, making a deal with Buddha, and wearing scandalous costumes, is it more than Mari can take?It repeats concept of Kekko Kamen, but provides less cringe and less humor, so lacks in every field.Overall Rating: 4/1017.Bakuen Campus Guardress爆炎CAMPUSガードレス [Production I.G] (Finished 4/4)Tags:ShounenSchoolAction, Comedy, SupernaturalLong ago, the gate to the world of darkness was sealed. Now evil warriors, known as Remnants, are trying to reopen the gate and let demons take over the world. However, at Tobira High School, there exist guardians of the gate who must risk their lives to prevent the gate from being opened.It's exaggerated comedy action, so can hardly expect seriousness with muscular enemies in thongs or female enemy "Sexy whip". Female protagonist is on par with that as she competes with her mother over who kisses Takumi first in the mornings and most of her phrases are akin to "I will protect Takumi!" with Takumi being her brother of relatively the same age. It's easy to entertain in the moment with this kind of craze, but after it's over no good impression remains.Overall Rating: 5/1018.Future GPX Cyber Formula Zero新世紀ＧＰＸサイバーフォーミュラＺＥＲＯ [Sunrise] (Finished 3/8)Tags:ShounenRacingDrama, Sci-FiA freak accident during the 12th Cyber Formula World Grand Prix causes Hayato Kazami to miss the rest of the season, and critically injures both his body and his will to continue racing. Hayato's longtime friend, Asuka Sugo, helps nurse him back to health, and in return he proposes to her and promises her that he would never race again. But as time goes on, Hayato begins to doubt whether he really wants to retire, and decides to make a comeback after all. And with the 13th Cyber Formula World Grand Prix now underway, he must struggle to regain his racing form; regain the trust of Asuka, whose promise he broke; and thwart the malicious intents of Henri Clayton. All the while, the reason behind Hayato's accident begins to unveil itself: the "Zero Zone."Since it's third installment already, it's hardly possible to shift set opinions at this point. As usual, I was only interested in whether protagonist has become a Pro by now and how relations have progressed to this point. Protagonist is kind of a pro all right now, but authors found a way to nullify all his progress yet again, lol. And he has progressed enough to hug a girl. I've known all that I came here for. Everything else is same average as usual.Overall Rating: 5/1019.Nana Toshi Monogatari: Hokkyokukai Sensen七都市物語～北極海戦線～ [animate Film] (Finished 2/2)Tags:MilitaryDrama, Sci-FiIn 2099, Earth has shifted off its axis and begins to rotate at an angle of 90% to the 20th-century equator. Three years of natural disasters follows, and when things settle down, Earth's ten billion population has died and only two million moon colonists remain.Some return to begin the repopulation of the world in seven new cities and the remaining colonists of the moon fear that their former neighbors might pose a threat and construct a ring of defensive satellites to trap them on the newly repopulated homeworld.It feels like author of Legend of Galactic heroes was sad that all his stratagems looked silly in space, so he put up this artificial setting just to show cool traps hidden in the water! Ridiculously rushed development and implementation with zero outcome value, as for me.Overall Rating: 5/1020.Shin KujakuouSpirit Warrior 真・孔雀王 [Madhouse] (Finished 2/2)Tags:MythologyAction, HorrorA young mystic without a past, Kujaku was born under a dark omen possessed of incredible supernatural powers. Raised by priests, he has learned to use these powers for good. But the evil Siegfried von Mittgard seeks to steal his birthright, and rule the world as the Regent of Darkness. He has dispatched bloodthirsty minions to destroy Kujaku before he can awaken to his destiny. Now, Kujaku must unravel the riddle of his past, before the power within consumes him!It used to be a total mess. Now it's just an average action with somewhat crazy story.Overall Rating: 0/1021.Marsマーズ[Discotek Media] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenMechaAction, Sci-FiMars is the 1st remake of the franchise and restored the original manga's storyline of a young boy in suspended animation inside a South Sea volcano who awakens a century before his alien masters planned to use his powers to reduce human civilization to a manageable low-tech level.Not translated. As you see from the synopsis, source is very old, probably 60s. And it's inevitably very simple. It's mostly dialogues of Mars with scientists and military with inevitable giant mecha ambush at the end of each episode. It's mostly military fighting the giant mech, but of course boy can not be kept out of danger. Ending is kinda open, so meh.Overall Rating: 3/1022.Yuu☆Yuu☆Hakusho: Meikai Shitou-hen - Honoo no KizunaYu Yu Hakusho the Movie: Poltergeist Report幽☆遊☆白書冥界死闘篇炎の絆 [Pierrot] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, MythologyAction, Adventure, Comedy, SupernaturalMillennia ago, a war was fought between the Netherworld and the Spirit World. Ultimately, the Netherworld was destroyed and Lord Yakumo, the King of the Netherworld, was banished to the depths of space. Now, five defenders from the Spirit World must team-up against Yakumo's Demon-Gods for possession of five, mystical sites. But Lord Yakumo is dangerously close to reclaiming the Power Sphere—the source of the Netherworld's energy—and once it is again in his possession, our world will become the new Netherworld.Action has become very impressive, but there's not much besides.Overall Rating: 6/1023.Crayon Shin-chan Movie 02: Buriburi Oukoku no Hihouクレヨンしんちゃんブリブリ王国の秘宝 [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAction, Adventure, ComedyAn action adventure film set in a imaginary southern island in the Indian Ocean. The evil secret society, "White Snake" abducted Shinnosuke and Prince Sunnokeshi of the Buri Buri Kingdom, who looks very much like Shinnosuke, in order to get the kingdom's hidden treasure in the golden palace underground. Shinnosuke's parents, Hiroshi and Misae fight with Lulu, the major of the palace guard of the kingdom, against White Snake, trying to recapture Shinnosuke and the prince.Since there is a previous movie to compare to, it's easier to do now. There are still quite a few nice jokes, but action story with twim subplot gives a worse impression with much time getting spent on plot development and even fighting scenes with little opportunity for humor, and that's just not Shinnosuke usual tempo.Overall Rating: 6/1024.Sangokushi: Dai San Bu - Harukanaru Taichi三国志第三部遥かなる大地 [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ActionHistoricalAn anime based on the Romance of the Three Kingdoms novel.As a part of trilogy, I hate it as much as prequels for being much worse than original Sangokushi titles because of art, same looking characters and even worse directorship. Same horrible open ending, of course.Overall Rating: 4/1025.Dohyou no Oni-tachi土俵の鬼たち [Studio Deen] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Combat Sports, HistoricalDrama, SportsAnimated film about the life of the 45th Yokozuna, Wakanohana Kanji I.Not translated. Demon ring looked quite like a normal ring to me... Anyway, guy comes from a poor family, gets noticed for strength during WWII, wins first sumo match while being a normal thin guy, inevitably looses soon and then starts to go for judo professionally with all the hardships and conflicts on the way. Pretty normal story with some nice observations of the time.Overall Rating: 5/1026.J League wo 100-bai Tanoshiku Miru Houhou!!Jリーグを100倍楽しく見る方法!! [Nichion] (Finished 0/1)Tags:ParodyComedy, Sports-Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1027.Slam Dunk: Ketsui no Shouhoku Basket-buスラムダンク決意の湘北バスケ部 [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenSchool, Team Sports-It's actually just a fast-paced compilation of the starter episodes, as such completely useless and messy with poor directorship.Overall Rating: 1/10

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Anime of the Year 1994-I Winter - Shonan Junai Gumi!

By kivandopulus, October 11, 2022

Anime of the Year

Shonan Junai Gumi!is the only minor masterpiece discovered in Winter 1994.1.Akazukin ChachaRed Riding Hood Chacha赤ずきんチャチャ [Gallop] (Finished 3/74)Tags:ShoujoAdventure, Comedy, Fantasy, RomanceAkazukin Chacha is the story of a young magical girl (Mahō Shōjo) named Chacha. Living with her guardian in a cottage on Mochi-mochi mountain is Seravi, who is her teacher and also the fictional world's greatest magician. Chacha is clumsy in casting her spells because, throughout the anime, when she summons something, it often turns out to be something that she didn't mean to cast, for example, spiders (kumo) instead of a cloud (also kumo). At times in the anime when she and her friends are in trouble, however, her spells do work. Living on the same mountain is a boy gifted with enormous strength named Riiya. It is described that Riiya came from a family of werewolves who can instantly change into a wolf whenever they want. Quite far from Mochi-mochi mountain lies Urizuri mountain. Dorothy, also a well known magician in her land, lives in a castle on Urizuri mountain. Living with her is Shiine, her student. Shiine is adept when it comes to casting spells. He is a young wizard and most of his knowledge about magic was taught to him by Dorothy.Story is pretty much non-existent as it's just magician school stage and some evil emperor or something sending some nasties. Each episode follows the same pattern - stage changes, but there's usually no story or plot in each episode, just by the end there's some usual five-second fight that is preceded by transformation. Characters are ok, but are very young , like - I dunno - 8 years old, so they act irrationally and just fool around. So everything this anime really stands out for is humor. There's high density or slapstick humor. It's absolutely random and senseless. If I try to retell some gag in words or try to analyze what's happening on the screen, I inevitably feel stupid. I'm happy that it works for so many people, but I get tired too fast of senseless humor and I can't just turn off the head. I'm not enjoying this.Overall Rating: 6/102.Nanatsu no Umi no TicoTico and Friends七つの海のティコ [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/39)Tags:Adventure, Slice of LifeNanami Simpson is a young girl. Her mother dies when she is young, and she goes to live with her father, Scott Simpson, on board a marine research vessel, the Peperonchino. Her father is a marine biologist, and he is in search of a creature known as the glowing whale. When he finds the bones of one of these, he is saddened, and resolves to change his mission toward preserving and caring for the creatures. Nanami befriends an Orca which she names Tico, and she goes swimming with it every day. Eventually, she learns to breathe underwater which astounds her father. Nanami nearly drowns one day, and one of the glowing whales saves her from certain death and returns her to the vessel, where her father finally gets to see it.I'm incompatible with World masterpiece series. This one is based on original scenario, so has more emotions and appeals better to children audience, but for me it's still a childish story about animals .Overall Rating: 5/103.Yuusha Keisatsu J-DeckerBrave Police J-Decker勇者警察ジェイデッカー [Sunrise] (Finished 3/48)Tags:Detective, MechaAction, Adventure, Sci-FiGrade schooler Yuuta Tomonaga stumbles upon Deckerd, a humanoid robot under construction by the Japanese police, built to fight advanced forms of crime. Yuuta's constant contact with Deckerd gives the robot a "heart," or personality; when Yuuta is recruited as the "boss" of the "Brave Police" as a result, a true human/robot partnership occurs.I loathe it as a part of Sunrise series that includes a dozen of same horrible mecha. Still I wanted to see, maybe humor got better or characters got likeable for once... nope, everything is same primitive as always in Sunrise mecha, the only problem is that it's not 70s anymore and quality level is the same as in the 70s.Overall Rating: 4/104.Shonan Junai Gumi!湘南純愛組! [J.C.Staff, Life Work] (Finished 5/5)Tags:Delinquents, SchoolAction, ComedyEikichi Onizuka and Ryuji Danma are members of infamous biker duo, the Oni Baku. When not out riding around, they can be found in school, trying to pick up young women. This is the story of the young Onizuka, who would later become the greatest teacher in Japan, and his partner Ryuji in their quest to lose their virginity and reach maturity.They are widely feared bosozoku, and are known for their tenacity and viciousness in a fight. However, this lifestyle does not exactly endear them to the opposite gender, so they decide to change their ways. However, this is easier said than done.Shounen Onizuka is more about violence and girls, and less about humor, and in this regard it definitely loses to Kyou kara Ore wa as paragon of delinquent comedy. Shounen Onizuka is enjoyable , but after first great episode, middle ones are weaker, and that in the end determines inferiority vsKyou kara Ore wa and a whole point penalty in score.Overall Rating: 7/105.Genocyberジェノサイバー[Artmic] (Finished 5/5)Tags:Gore, Mecha, PsychologicalAction, Horror, Sci-FiAs the nations of the world begin to merge, world peace is threatened by the private armies of individual corporations. The Kuryu Group has just discovered a weapon that will tip world power in their favor. The Genocyber: a nightmarish combination of cybernetics and psychic potential. Many desire to control this monstrosity, but can its hatred be contained... Battle erupts, and the cyberpunk world of the future is about to explode with violence.It should have been called Genocyder as it has enough of genom, enough of genocyde, but lacks in cyber department. There's not much to see here besides the gore.Overall Rating: 4/106.Final FantasyLegend of the Crystals: Final Fantasyファイナルファンタジー [Madhouse] (Finished 4/4)Tags: Action, Adventure, Comedy, FantasyA continuation of the events from Final Fantasy V. 200 years after Bartz and his friends saved two worlds from the threat of ExDeath, a threat arises and seeks to take the Crystals for itself. Linaly, a descendant of Bartz, and her friend/protector Prettz journey to the Temple Of Wind to seek the source of this new danger.FFV has the most boring story from all the plot titles of the franchise that start with 3rd. This sequel is set in the future and nothing more clever is invented than just devote each episode to crystal resembling nature element or similar symbol. In this regard it could easily be Dragon Quest sequel with a bit of tuning. The biggest problem is using new horrible and undeveloped characters. This stuff's rather basic and not giving anything in return for invested time.Overall Rating: 4/107.Plastic Littleプラスチックリトル [animate Film] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryAction, Adventure, Comedy, Romance, Sci-Fi, EcchiSet on the planet Yietta, whose colonists make their living by exploiting the planet's unique liquid-gas oceans, Plastic Little begins as the Yietans are finally about to pay off their debts to the Galactic Federation. Unfortunately, there are those who would rather not let Yietta slip through their fingers...Enter Tita, 17 year old captain of the Cha Cha Maru. Together with her crew, Tita specializes in capturing Yietta's exotic life forms for intergalactic pet shops, but through plain bad luck she finds herself, instead, at the core of a sinister plot to take over Yietta! By rescuing 16 year old Elysse from the very clutches of the military, Tita puts the lives of both herself and her crew in mortal peril... but a girl's got to do what a girl's got to do!As the plotters mobilize their forces in a desperate bid to retrieve Elysse, whom they believe possesses a vital computer code, Tita must play a dangerous game of tag with an entire army of professional killers! It's Cat and Mouse on a planetwide scale, with one crucial difference: Mice don't shoot back, but Tita's does!For everyone who is aware of Satoshi Urushihara name it's evident that girls and fanservice are going to be in focus and plot will be there just to connect those events. I was surprised to know there's just four such events, but length is also just 47 minutes, and half of it has to be devoted to resolution, thus my initial assumption is confirmed. I don't consider "plot" to bear any real value, so I just can't recommend this OVA .Overall Rating: 4/108.Dirty Pair FlashダーティペアFLASH [Sunrise] (Finished 6/6)Tags:DetectiveAction, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi, EcchiKei and Yuri were originally junior auxiliary agents in the Worlds Works and Welfare Agency (W.W.W.A. or 3WA for short) when the two were paired together under the codename "Lovely Angels." Kei was coming off her fourth probation for something she had done, and Yuri's dating exploits were common knowledge, not to mention the two had an instant dislike for each other when they met.At first, Kei and Yuri refused to work with each other, and Kei even resigned from the 3WA. Afterwards, the two continued to work together, although they earned their nickname, "the Dirty Pair" because of all the collateral damage the two (unintentionally) cause in the completion of their cases. And even though the two now get along with one another, they continue to bicker and complain to each other.Although it is often said that these are younger versions of the original Lovely Angels Kei and Yuri, in truth this series is an alternate universe telling of Dirty Pair, set in the years 2248-49.Several average movies and OVAs have tarnished Dirty Pair reputation to an extent after impressive initial series, so they are trying new things as younger Key and Yuri can be placed in a different stage like one city as well. But it all broke up for me with the magical girl transformation scene for each of the heroines in the first episode... why? Series had couple fanservice-enticing episodes, but now fanservice becomes the focus of the OVA with heroines degraded to the level of light-minded schoolgirls. It can bring some new audience, but inevitably averts old-school one .Overall Rating: 5/109.Giant Robo Gaiden GinreiGiant Robo: Ginrei Specialジャイアントロボ外伝 GinRei 銀鈴 [Phoenix Entertainment] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenMecha, Parody, Super PowerComedy, Sci-Fi, EcchiIn episode one, Ginrei's dress is stolen, only to be used to fool the enemy. The second episode deals with a giant robot made exactly in her image. Finally, the third episode concerns Tetsugyu and Ginrei investigating a lost research team in a "wild west" desert setting.I did not like the original that was supposed to have some substance, so it is futile to hope I'd like specials. It's not half as bad as Sunrise mecha, but calling it decent is hardly possible as well - with all the fanservice involved here it's rather indecent.Overall Rating: 5/1010.Koukou Butouden CrowsCrows高校武闘伝クローズ [Knack Productions] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenDelinquents, SchoolActionBouya Harumichi is a new transfer student to Suzuran all-boys high school, a place where only the worst delinquents assemble. Due to its large amount of delinquents who are hated by the general people for their inauspiciousness, similarly to crows, it is also known as "Crows High School."Harumichi is an insanely strong fighter but has an irresponsible personality. How will he act in this new environment where everyone is a delinquent?A decent delinquents anime. It manages to stay unserious, focuses on violence and lacks real humor at the same time. My preferences in the genre are quite the opposite - serious attitude, focus on girls equally as violence and substantial humor.Overall Rating: 6/1011.Natsuki Crisisなつきクライシス [Madhouse] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Martial Arts, SchoolActionNatsuki is the top female karateka in her high school. Beautiful and cheerful, she charms most people she meets. Most of the young men in her class would dearly like to be the object of her affection but she saves her passion for karate. Unfortunately, all the big ugly thugs she comes across want to fight her so she's always finding practical application for her karate skills. As the series continues and her opponents get grimmer, Natsuki learns techniques from Akido and Judo and develops a special Ki energy blast that doubles the strength of her punches. She may not be able to smash walls like some of her opponents but her special N.G. Bomber usually sends her opponents flying.Seriously... the whole anime is to watch at staged karate fights and pantsu flashes? Because there's nothing besides it, that's nowhere above average.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Compiler [Studio Fantasia] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sci-FiWhen a world of 2-D beings discovers the existence of our universe, they send a team of beautiful Domni-Matrixes into our world to prepare it for total integration. However, once liberated from their flat and dreary 2-D existence, Compiler and Assembler quickly discovered that cybersex with a couple of 3-D guys is a lot more fun than world conquest. Now, in between interfacing with their boyfriends, Assembler and Compiler must protect the Earth from being deleted by their former masters and an army of killer programs.It's not recommended, because it's not self-sufficient OVA as actual story should have been cancelled or never issued with manga supposedly popular. Basically, it's two very different specials for... nothing.Overall Rating: 4/1013.B.B. FishB.B. フィッシュ [Production I.G] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenDrama, RomanceAt the time of the ceremony of entry to the college, a young boy named Ushino Hayama finds Sara a girl whom he met ten years ago. From this day, a change has taken place in him, and notices that can now control some water. After having succeeded the swimming championships, he discovers deep sea diving.Will he find legendary fish or will he not over the course of 25 minutes?! Intrigue we deserve. Plus some fanserviceOverall Rating: 2/1014.Kibun wa Uaa Jitsuzai OL Kouza気分は形而上[うああ] 実在OL講座 [Group TAC] (Finished 0/1)Tags:SeinenComedyFollows an office lady who expresses the phrase "Uaa" when in a state of emotional disbelief in situations above her head—which is quite frequent in the office, while dating, and when out on the town with friends.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1015.Slam Dunk (Movie)スラムダンク [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenSchool, Team SportsSakuragi and the Shohoku team takes on Oda and Takezono High School. This is Sakuragi's second match as he faces Oda, a basketball player who went to the same junior high.Calling 29 minute special a movie is kinda... wrong? But we get a match !... as expected from any spokon? I hope creators milked enough money for something useful with thisfillerfraud.Overall Rating: 4/1016.Kattobase! Dreamers: Carp Tanjou Monogatariかっ飛ばせ! ドリーマーズ -カープ誕生物語- [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Team SportsThis cartoon tells the story of the establishment of a famous baseball team in Japanese history...Not translated. Anyone wanted to see poor kids train in the field on pure enthusiasm? I doubt anyone ever wanted that...Overall Rating: 4/1017.Nakazaki Tatsuya Super Gag Theater I中崎タツヤスーパーギャグシアター I [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 0/1)Tags:Adult Cast, Gag HumorComedyAn adaptation of various short gag manga by Tatsuya Nakazaki. Aired as a single TV special featuring twenty-five short stories.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/10

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Anime of the Year 1993-IV Fall - Fortune Quest: Yo ni mo Shiawase na Boukensha-tachi

By kivandopulus, October 8, 2022

Anime of the Year

It was a bland season for me. Can put any decent work on the cover, but since I prefer adventurer parties, let it beFortune Quest: Yo ni mo Shiawase na Boukensha-tachi1.Slam Dunkスラムダンク [Toei Animation] (Finished 4/101)Tags:ShounenSchool, Team SportsHanamichi Sakuragi, infamous for his temper, massive height, and fire-red hair, enrolls in Shohoku High, hoping to finally get a girlfriend and break his record of being rejected 50 consecutive times in middle school. His notoriety precedes him, however, leading to him being avoided by most students. Soon, after certain events, Hanamichi is left with two unwavering thoughts: "I hate basketball," and "I desperately need a girlfriend."One day, a girl named Haruko Akagi approaches him without any knowledge of his troublemaking ways and asks him if he likes basketball. Hanamichi immediately falls head over heels in love with her, blurting out a fervent affirmative. She then leads him to the gymnasium, where she asks him if he can do a slam dunk. In an attempt to impress Haruko, he makes the leap, but overshoots, instead slamming his head straight into the blackboard. When Haruko informs the basketball team's captain of Hanamichi's near-inhuman physical capabilities, he slowly finds himself drawn into the camaraderie and competition of the sport he had previously held resentment for.Watching it for the first time, and I don't consider it great. I actually liked old Dash Kappei more as it had humor that was more to my liking. I understand that part of appeal comes from delinquent nature, but it hardly matters. And I'm not even taking into account logics as person who hates basketball and does not know its rules agrees to compete with basketball team captain not in punching faces, but in... basketball! So stupid. The next episode the same person who hates basketball... suddenly just appears in basketball team. R u freaking kidding me... there's nothing to enjoy here.Overall Rating: 6/102.Aoki Densetsu Shoot!Blue Legend Shoot! 蒼き伝説　シュート！[Toei Animation] (Finished 3/58)Tags:Shounen SchoolAction, Comedy, Drama, Romance, SportsInspired by Yoshiharu Kubo's phenomenal performance that led Kakegawa High School to a miraculous victory in a soccer tournament, Toshihiko Tanaka decides to enter the same school as his idol and join the soccer club, hoping to become as successful as Kubo.Now a high school freshman, Tanaka is devastated as his expectations suddenly start falling apart. Kubo—the captain of the club—is absent due to illness. To make matters worse, the freshmen are not allowed to practice alongside the sophomores or become regulars on the team. The final nail in the coffin is the reluctance of Tanaka's friends, Kenji Shiraishi and Kazuhiro Hiramatsu, to join him in the club. Although Tanaka and his friends were once known as a deadly soccer trio in their junior high school days, Kenji and Kazuhiro have both quit soccer for personal reasons.When Tanaka starts to lose hope, an encounter with Kazumi Endo—a girl from his childhood—becomes the unexpected key to his freedom from despair. The disappointed Kazumi wants to see the trio reunite, so she takes matters into her own hands in her mischievous way. Thus, Tanaka's high school soccer career prepares for the kickoff.It's a bit of romance and serious team spokon with spotlight on many team members rather than the star one. Anyway, it's still better than all previous childish soccer spokons, so it can be considered decent, I guess.Overall Rating: 6/103.Muka Muka Paradiseムカムカパラダイス [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/51)Tags:Adventure, ComedyUiba Shikatani, the daughter of a pet shop owner, is heartbroken after some reptile eggs fail to hatch. In his attempts to cheer her up, her father brings home a large, striped egg, which he hopes will successfully hatch (unexpectedly into a green dinosaur whom they call "Muka-Muka," which are the only words which the baby reptile can speak).Muka-Muka soon becomes the talk of the town and comes into the interest of the town's professor and his wacky inventions, including a time machine which successfully teleports the Shikatani's among other families and their homes to pre-historic times where they encounter several other dinosaurs and enchanted beings on their adventures.Not translated. Girls need their own Doraemons... and that's how Muka Muka Paradise was born. But since Muka Muka does not talk, it's better to compare him with representatives that have non-talking pets as well. Overall... lacks humor and feels average.Overall Rating: 5/104.Jungle no Ouja Tar-chanジャングルの王者ターちゃん [Group TAC] (Finished 3/50)Tags:Gag Humor, ParodyAction, ComedyTa-chan is the king of jungle. He was abandoned in savanna, and has been raised by a chimpanzee, Etekichi. He has a dearest wife, Jane who used to be a top model in New York, but now she looks... Anyway, to protect animals from poachers, Ta-chan is fighting against them with his disciple, Pedro, and a master of Chinese martial arts, Ryo.This anime is based on the manga with the same title; it begins as a comical parody of Tarzan. The first several episodes are comedies, but the rest of the series consists of (rather) serious episodes.There have been two anime about wilderness man coming to a civilized town. But this one is different as it's wilderness man treating guests from civilization. Anyway, too horrible characters and too bad humor... so with rare moments of ok humor it's still done by these poor characters.Overall Rating: 5/105.Heisei Inu Monogatari BowHeisei Period Dog Tale Bow平成イヌ物語バウ [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/40)Tags:Adventure, ComedyBow is a homeless dog, who enjoys his carefree life. This dog is no super-hero. He drools when he's hungry, he wags his tail when he's happy, and he barks when he's excited, just like an ordinary dog but even uglier and stupider! His dumb innocence often leads to disaster. But somehow people are charmed by him. School children, a lonesome cartoonist, and a gangster family all play an important role in Bow's life.Not translated. And another anime with non-speaking pet. This one is just boring as it's all just about dog stuff , almost like Where is Michael, just with a semi-passive host . I'm astonished how someone could gather so many observations of dog life, but there's not much good in dog life even if it's idealized.Overall Rating: 5/106.JoJo no Kimyou na BoukenJoJo's Bizarre Adventure (OVA)ジョジョの奇妙な冒険 [APPP] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenVampireAdventure, Drama, Fantasy, Horror, SupernaturalKujo Jotaro is a normal, popular Japanese high-schooler, until he thinks that he is possessed by a spirit, and locks himself in prison. After seeing his grandfather, Joseph Joestar, and fighting Joseph's friend Muhammad Abdul, Jotaro learns that the "Spirit" is actually Star Platinum, his Stand, or fighting energy given a semi-solid form. Later, his mother gains a Stand, and becomes sick. Jotaro learns that it is because the vampire Dio Brando has been revived 100 years after his defeat to Jonathan Joestar, Jotaro's great-great-grandfather. Jotaro decides to join Joseph and Abdul in a trip to Egypt to defeat Dio once and for all.Tried to watch remake once... and it felt morally old and childish. As I understand now, it's stylish fashionable men with some abilities are fighting some superboss with super-abilities and barely manage by sheer luck or endurance or command play. There are usually also a lot of casualties which usually miraculously cure later on. Also there is high variety as show is supposed to surprise with "bizarre" in the title. I understand it better now, but my case rests the same - I don't understand why I would want to watch it. It's definite improvement over Hokuto no Ken (last JoJo episode even has ATATATATATA), but in my opinion it was floor level and now just above the floor level.Overall Rating: 6/107.Black Jackブラック・ジャック [Tezuka Productions] (Finished 2/12)Tags:Medical, PsychologicalDrama, Mystery, SuspenseKuroo Hazama, also known as "Black Jack," is a legend in the medical world. Famous for being one of the best, as well as not having a license, Hazama and his assistant Pinoko save countless lives that other doctors cannot... for a price; an exorbitant price, in fact, which causes many to view the genius as greedy and heartless. Despite these claims, however, none can deny his skill and the lengths that he will go to treat his patients. This dark medical drama tells the story of the ominous and mysterious world of underground medicine as Black Jack risks his life to cure some of the most bizarre diseases imaginable, even if it means breaking every law in the process.No coherent story, just episodic cases of underground genius doctor with difficult mystical cases, something like Dr. Chaos that I can't stand.Overall Rating: 5/108.Boku no Chikyuu wo Mamotteぼくの地球を守って [Production I.G] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShoujoDrama, Sci-FiAlice Sakaguchi once dreamt that she is another person living on the moon. The dream is so strange and so real that Alice can't stop thinking about it. She finds out that some of her classmates are having the same kind of dream. They soon discover that they had been seeing flashes of their past lives as a team of scientists on the moon. Alice and her friends then decide to find the other members and piece together what took place back then. Complications arise when they realize that everything that happened in their previous existence continue to haunt and affect their present lives.I regret every second of the time wasted time on this OVA... I see it as a weird homage to ancient OVA Terra e... Again Moon, Earth, nostalgy for lost home, espers, and I think there was at least Enju in Terra e..., thoughI may be mistaken. Anyway, pretentious senseless dialogues about nothing and even worse plot. And a lot of people wasted much more time making it - I shiver at the very thought of that.Overall Rating: 2/109.The Cockpitザ・コクピット [Madhouse] (Finished 3/3)Tags:Adult Cast, Historical, Military1. SlipstreamAbout a Luftwaffe pilot who must choose between his duty to his country: to guard a bomber loaded with Germany's final hope of victory... the world's first atomic bomb... or his duty to the world: to let it fall in flames to enemy Spitfires and be a footnote in history. Of course, things are complicated by the plane's other cargo... the woman he loves.2. Sonic Boom SquadronNear the end of the war, Japan has implemented a new weapon -- a human-piloted rocket-propelled flying bomb. Aboard a bomber carrying one of these, young Ensign Nogami awaits his chance to die as a "cherry blossom", a suicide pilot. In a few hours, he will die. The date of his death is set: August 6, 1945.3. Knight of the Iron DragonTwo soldiers attempt to reach an air base in order to fulfill a promise despite the fact that it might have been rendered moot in the reality of war.For crying out loud... not the Space Express AND Captain Harlock character designs again... that alone is enough for a full score penalty. Add to that that there are three stories each of some 20 minutes length and that it's all about brave AXIS heroes aiming to conquer half of the world for the rule of the strong, and my disgust will become evident.Overall Rating: 4/1010.New Dominion Tank Police特捜戦車隊ドミニオン [J.C.Staff] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenDetective, MechaComedy, Sci-FiIn the follow up to Shirow's classic anime, Al, Leona and their trusty steed, Bonaparte, continue to fight crime in New Port City, alongside the rest of the Tank Police. But a new threat appears in the form of a series of terrorist attacks, using the latest weapons technology. The Tank Police are out-numbered and out-gunned, but Al and Leona set out to discover who or what is behind these attacks. With massive explosions and high-speed chases, Leona often causes more damage than the criminals she pursues.Dominion Tank Police franchise is basically maximally unserious Patlabor. Prequel was too crazy for me as it casually treated torture by police in many cases - luckily, no such issue spotted here anymore. It's somewhat fun... yet not fun enough for me to enjoy.Overall Rating: 6/1011.Choujikuu Seiki Orguss 02超時空世紀オーガス02 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 6/6)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, Romance, Sci-FiYears of political tension and mistrust between the two rival nations of Zafran and Revillia escalate to the point of war. Each nations solution: to gain possession of Decimators, the same ancient robots of war that nearly ended all life on the planet 200 years before. As the war ensues and the leaders of both nations become reluctant to surrender, only the desperate plan of Lean, a young cadet, and Nataruma, a psychically gifted young woman, to alter the timeline of events 200 years before stands the chance between humanity's survival or absolute destruction.As competition gets more and more fierce, I cant treat all these remnants of history lightly. Orguss 02 is average at best. What did Orguss stand out for ? Somewhat charismatic and somewhat pervy protagonist and his harem of female half-beast aliens with unusual morality. What do we have here? Many years have passed and another bland hero in mecha fights some other mechas like in every single shitty Gundam. Pathetic .Overall Rating: 5/1012.Sono Kinisasete yo: My My MaiMy My Maiその気にさせてよ myマイ舞 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Comedy, Supernatural, EcchiWhile on the job, it is important to watch how you present yourself as people's perceptions can mean everything. For Mai Waku, an owner of a firm tackling supernatural problems, this simple task can be incredibly difficult. With her unavoidable sex appeal, Mai seems to always find a way to end up naked while working on a case. Dealing with a variety of people from well-known celebrities to innkeepers, Mai cannot seem to avoid precarious situations where she lacks clothes in the presence of her clients.Anime is about counselling heroine and all her clients problems are borderline ecchi is some what. Of course it is silly and light. Still calling it decent would be an overkill.Overall Rating: 5/1013.Konpeki no Kantai紺碧の艦隊 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 3/32)Tags:Historical, MilitaryAction, DramaKonpeki no Kantai is a Japanese alternate-history original video animation series produced by JC Staff. Based on a 1992 novel by Yoshio Aramaki, the series focuses on a technologically advanced Imperial Japanese Navy and a radically different Pacific War that was brought about by Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto's revival in the past due to unexplained circumstances. The series also features real-life 1940s figures whose first names were changed, such as Winston Churchill to Kingston Churchill and Adolf Hitler to Heinrich von Hitler.Only 22 episodes are translated. Ever wanted to see how heroic Imperial Japanese Navy defeats USA fleet? Neither did I... At least make it fantasy and take out historical figures from your flick! I can't hide my aversion towards military series and especially alternative history ones. There's more harm than good in a show like this one. Zipang is tenfold better in every way.Overall Rating: 4/1014.The Hakkenden: Shin ShouThe Hakkenden: Legend of the Dog Warriors Part 2THE八犬伝新章 [AIC] (Finished 7/7)Tags:ShounenHistorical, Martial Arts, Mythology, SamuraiAction, AdventureSecond part of The Hakkenden.Prequel was very chaotic with all the demons. But this sequel is way worse as it borders illusions or alternative realities all the time now. Action is same good, but it's the kind of mess I can't tolerate.Overall Rating: 5/1015.FantasiaGirl from Phantasiaふぁんたじあ [Production I.G] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, RomanceAkihiro is a teenaged boy with fantasies. He's about to have date with his girlfriend Miyuki when he finds a strange carpet on his way home. Home, a pretty and over-energetic girl named Malon appears from the carpet. She tells Akihiro about the world of Phantasia and wants to live with Akihiro. But even if Akihiro loves pretty girls, he becomes angry with Malon's magical powers and drives her away. The maniac wizard, Roll, who wants to kill Malon, doesn't help at all.Just 28 minutes for another one-shot about girl suddenly appearing in boy's room. And it manages to turn into love octangle and even draws a conflict with the rival. Just Urusei Yatsura one-shot clone with very little sense into it.Overall Rating: 4/1016.Time Bokan Oudou FukkoTime Bokan: Royal Revivalタイムボカン王道復古 [Tatsunoko Production] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Mecha, ParodyAction, Comedy, Sci-FiA laugh-out-loud hilarious adventure from the studio behind Gatchaman and Speed Racer!Who has what it takes to be the baddest of the bad? It's evil versus evil as teams of bad guys compete to be the meanest villains ever! Watch and laugh as the Dorombo Gang and their Kitchen Robot take on the worst of the worst in a wacky race to be the greatest villains in anime history! The only force that stands in their way are the superheroes of anime. Will the Gatchaman ninja arrive in time to save the day?The only thing franchise really needs for revival is sexy villain antagonist as she was from the start. As you can expect, none of the kind is presented here. Instead, a lot of different old parties are presented and even starting cool antagonist heroine is drawn ugly here. Now it's a parade of five uglies... franchise is moving towards kids audience more and more from the nice start, and I consider this direction just wrong.Overall Rating: 5/1017.Emblem Take 2代紋(エンブレム) TAKE2 [Toei Animation] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenOrganized Crime, Time TravelAction, DramaShinjuku, 1983. A member of the Kaeda Yakuza gang, Akutsu Jouji, has lost in a brawl with a university cheering squad, and begs for forgiveness through bitter tears. Since then, nothing has gone well in Jouji's life, until 10 years later in 1993, his friend was ordered to kill him, and as he ran away he killed himself, ending his miserable life.But when Jouji opened his eyes, he was in Shinjuku in 1983, at the fight with the university students that caused things to go wrong. Now with ten more years of memories and experience, Jouji repels the university students with spirit and wisdom. Now he swears to wear a gold emblem around town, and begins his life anew.There has been a whole lot of traditional yakuza OVAs with various obscurity, so there have been enough coverage already. Take2 understands that biker gangs times are mostly done for, so time slip is introduced to move from relatively modern 1993 ten years back in time to the core of wild times. True depiction of petty yakuza make this anime on the better side of the serious yakuza genre, yet it's only decent.Overall Rating: 6/1018.Fortune Quest: Yo ni mo Shiawase na Boukensha-tachiフォーチュン・クエスト　～世にも幸せな冒険者たち～ [J.C.Staff] (Finished 4/4)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, FantasyFortune Quest is the tale of a bunch of adventurers. Imagine your classic D&D party—Fighter, Thief, Bard, Mage, Healer ...and Porter? Okay, don't know where the Porter comes from, but Pastel and her group of adventurers are broke and need a job. They can't afford to buy any of the adventure modules from the module seller, so they have to take part-time jobs to pay off their debts. And an innocent job to fetch holy water leads to world-threatening danger ...and a white dragon.First episode actually deserved a masterpiece, but dungeon was a big downer, so no matter how I like adventurer parties, it's only decent. And it has a bard that can compete for the most useless bard ever! And that's usually my favorite class...Overall Rating: 6/1019.Chouon Senshi Borgman 2: Shin Seiki 2058Sonic Soldier Borgman 2: New Century 2058超音戦士ボーグマン2 [SECOND] -新世紀2058- [Production Reed] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenMythologyAction, Sci-FiIn 2058, the menace of the Youma (demons) returns under the evil leadership of the Master. A new generation of Borgman, under the leadership of Chuck Sweager, is mankind's only hope of stopping the plague of evil before it consumes all of Megalocity. But Ken, an unwilling recruit to the Borgman, may have more in common with the enemy than with humankind...Well... just average, by today's standards even worse. Just milking memories.Overall Rating: 5/1020.Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru: Owarinaki Toki no Monogatari魔神英雄伝ワタル　終わりなき時の物語 [Sunrise] (Finished 3/3)Tags:FantasyThe story is about a 9-year-old boy named Wataru Ikusabe who is magically transported to a magical realm of the gods called Sokaizan which he is supposed to save. He also befriends many of the Soukaizan natives, and forms some very strong friendship bonds.I'm really surprised to find this first and closest clone of Dragon ball to be still alive and kicking. Since there are at least three better imitators already, this one feels sour now. Sunrise is slow to adapt to anything new, as usual.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Shibai Tarokaしばいたろか [Knack Productions] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenDelinquents, SchoolAction, Comedy, RomanceThere is a new student at Oobu High School. His name is Yakuda Daigo. With his buff body and a tough looking face that can make every one run, soon rumors spread about him. Some says he's a gang leader, others say he is involved with Yakuza business, still more say he rapes, steals and likes beating people.There are only a handful of people who know who Yakuda really is, including Manami-a. She is a girl Yakuda fell in love with. Yakuda loves to cook and he likes cute things. He also enjoys gardening, crafting and adores pets. He is a very caring person. He always carries around a cute sewing kit and a cute first-aid kit around.However, with many unfortunate events, he often gets involved with a gang fight or a criminal, along with other coincidental things that happens around him. People always assume the worse for him.Will everyone find out who he really is?We've already seen delinquent going for sewing club, now there's a delinquent going into gardening club, but the core is the same - he likes cute stuff and is shy with girls while everyone thinks of him as a brute. Ok, but not great.Overall Rating: 5/1022.Yokohama Bakkure-tai横浜ばっくれ隊 [Toei Animation, Knack Productions] (Finished 4/4)Tags:ShounenDelinquentsAction, Comedy, RomanceIt's all gags and fighting as gangster Tsunematsu Narita (the "biggest idiot in Yokohama") causes havoc in the neighborhood with his two henchmen.Based on the Shonen Champion manga by Tetsu Kusumoto.Not translated. Since it's not a part of some franchise, but original title, had to look into it, because who else would. The good thing is that it's comedy focused. The bad thing is that characters lack individuality and almost everyone looks similar. In other regards it's just as the worse half of yakuza anime - low quality , weird gimmicks , etch, violence and chaotic events failing to present somewhat integral plot.Overall Rating: 4/1023.Aesop Douwaイソップ童話 [-] (Finished 0/3)Tags: --Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1024.Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon R: The MovieSailor Moon R: The Movie - The Promise of the Rose美少女戦士セーラームーンＲ THE MOVIE [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mahou ShoujoDrama, RomanceWhen Mamoru was little he gave a rose to a little boy named Fiore. Fiore promised that one day he would bring Mamoru lots of flowers. Now Fiore has come back to earth but his intentions are not merely to fulfil a promise...Feels like finale of some arc. Drawing seems to be more precise, but at times it looks worse. Overall, more of the same, nothing special spotted.Overall Rating: 6/1025.Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu: Arata naru Tatakai no OvertureLegend of the Galactic Heroes: Overture to a New War銀河英雄伝説外伝　新たなる戦いの序曲[オーヴァチュア] [Magic Bus, Kitty Film Mitaka Studio] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adult Cast, Military, SpaceAction, Drama, Sci-FiLed by Reinhard von Müsel, the Galactic Empire crushes the Free Planets Alliance in the Fourth Battle of Tiamat. Arriving in the Imperial capital of Odin to a hero's welcome, Reinhard's victory earns him a promotion to High Admiral and the distinguished title of Count von Lohengramm. On the other side, Yang Wen-li safely returns to the Alliance capital of Heinessen without fanfare and reunites with his dear friends.Reinhard and Yang look forward to a long-awaited reprieve. However, at the request of the scheming Duke Otho von Braunschweig, the Imperial High Command orders the new High Admiral to invade the Alliance with a fleet of twenty thousand ships. After the Duke leaks the plan to the Alliance government, three fleets totalling forty thousand ships are sent to counter the incoming attack and recreate the famous Battle of Dagon. But even though Reinhard is outnumbered two to one, he has an ingenious plan—and Yang sees right through it. Will Yang's superiors heed his warning before it is too late?As it's retelling of the beginning, waste of time.Overall Rating: 4/1026.Coo: Tooi Umi kara Kita CooCoo遠い海から来たクー [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Drama, Mystery, Slice of LifeObata Yousuke lives on Pagopago in the Fiji archipelago with his father Tetsuo, a specialist in oceanographic biology. After a storm strikes the island, Yousuke rides to the lagoon with his Jet Ski and finds a strange baby dinosaur there. He takes it to his father's laboratory and names it Coo.Coo grows and seems to be a large marine reptile (a baby plesiosaur) which lived there some 65 million years ago. But Coo soon becomes an object of interest for the French secret service, assigned to protect the nuclear interests of France in that otherwise peaceful part of the world.I don't see how this animal story in the core can be of interest to anyone but kids. Change plesiosaur to some whale or dolphin, and you probably seen it already. Or even don't change , and you've still seen it in the first Doraemon movie. Plain childish.Overall Rating: 4/1027.Mother: Saigo no Shoujo EveMOTHER 最後の少女イヴ [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Drama, Sci-FiThe future is bleak and urbanized. A government super-power holds the keys to all the doors. Hope lies in a secret organization who kidnaps "gifted" children and teaches them to wield their ability to view the life energy of all living things. A young girl befriends a sempai, a street rat comes to rescue her, and two parents wait helplessly to see their daughter one last time...Finally a movie about psychics that does not make me want to throw up instantly. Plot is very simple, literally just running away, and second half of the movie is explanation of the world , history , universe and hint of the future. It does not transcend beyond decent, though .Overall Rating: 6/1028.Bonobonoぼのぼの [Group TAC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:AnthropomorphicComedyThe first theatrical Bonobono movie.It's not familiar, so why not watch and sample it. Actually, miracle happened, and this movie is not only for kids. There is enough nice humor and observations - enough to not block it as kids work, but not enough for a decent status.Overall Rating: 5/1029.Aoi Kioku: Manmou Kaitaku to Shounen-tachi蒼い記憶満蒙開拓と少年たち [-] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Historical, MilitaryDramaA class of Japanese youths volunteer for the war effort during WWII, but then get stranded in Manchuria.Not translated. Well, I don't see real meaning in watching kids in patriotic awe wanting to fight for their horrible regime and then getting stood up. I watched, and it was not good. What can I say - turn on brains if your country calls to kill people on foreign territory, damn it.Overall Rating: 4/1030.Battle Spirits: Ryuuko no KenArt of Fightingバトルスピリッツ　龍虎の拳 [-] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMartial ArtsAction, ComedyWhile trying to rescue a cat, martial artist Ryo Sakazaki and his playboy best friend Robert Garcia unwittingly break into a jewel thief's apartment. Moments after entering, they witness the thief being murdered by a group of thugs. Despite fighting their way out and escaping, things go from bad to worse when Ryo and Robert learn that the thugs were working for Mr. Big, the biggest crime boss in South Town.Not only does Mr. Big believe that the two have stolen the "Eye of Sirius," a priceless diamond, but he has also kidnapped Ryo's younger sister Yuri, and is holding her hostage. Without the diamond and out of options, Ryo and Robert must fight their way past Mr. Big's men and save Yuri before it's too late.Video game to anime transition passed even worse than Fatal Fury...Overall Rating: 4/10

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Anime of the Year 1993-II Spring - Gunnm

By kivandopulus, October 4, 2022

VN of the Year

Don't know how to put it... but I gave away the first genius masterpiece score toGunnmalready. There's also one firm masterpieceKyou kara Ore wa!!.1.Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon RSailor Moon R 美少女戦士セーラームーン R[Toei Animation] (Finished 3/43)Tags:ShoujoMahou Shoujo, MythologyRomanceUsagi Tsukino and her friends have been living peacefully until they are called into action again as Sailor Guardians, planetary warriors fighting for the peace of the galaxy. Usagi, also known as Sailor Moon, leads their group into battle when a new threat from beyond the stars presents itself: two survivors of an alien race, An and Ail. In order to save the source of their life force, the Makai Tree, An and Ail begin harvesting energy from unsuspecting humans. The Sailor Guardians must stop their plot or face the annihilation of Earth.But as one threat subsides, another follows—this time in the form of a little girl from the future who seeks the source of Sailor Moon's power to save her family. However, she is not the only one vying for it, as a group known as the Black Moon Clan also wishes to obtain the power and use it for nefarious purposes. In order to protect their destinies and the harmony of the universe, Sailor Moon and the rest of the Sailor Guardians must fight to stop these forces from succeeding.I didn't really distinguish Sailor Moon by seasons as there was always almost seamless continuity, but this time losing and regaining memories definitely feels like a needless filler. Can't force myself to watch it to the end, so it'll be the same max score for such cases - decent.Overall Rating: 6/102.Mobile Suit Victory GundamMobile Suit V Gundam機動戦士Vガンダム [Sunrise] (Finished 3/51)Tags:Mecha, Military, SpaceDrama, Sci-FiIn the year 153 of the Universal Century, the tyrannical Zanscare Empire has taken hostile control over Side 2, a space colony outside of Earth's orbit. Following in the footsteps of the long expired Principality of Zeon and the more recent Crossbone Vanguard, Zanscare rules over its subjects with cruelty, routinely using a large guillotine for public executions.Living in Central Europe, space immigrant Üso Ewin joins the League Militaire, a militia made up of civilians frustrated with the Earth Federation's inability to combat the Zanscare Empire. Üso's latent abilities as a psychic Newtype awaken and allow him to pilot the Victory Gundam, the only mobile suit capable of holding off the elite BESPA forces of the Zanscare Empire.Hoping to protect his best friend Shakti Kareen and locate his parents within the ranks of the Federation, Üso fights on with the Victory, striving to bring an end to the empire's reign.If someone like Sunrise is doing different versions of something like Gundam for many years, there should be at least something good out of it eventually. All I can say by first 3 episodes is that it's absolutely not beginner-friendly and with no attempt to attract viewers. As usual without any explanation everyone starts to run somewhere with open mouths while someone fighting someone else all the time. As usual, no attempt of character development or anything at all to make this pile of garbage to feel integral rather than pointless action for action's sake .Overall Rating: 4/103.GS MikamiGhost Sweeper MikamiGS（ゴーストスイーパー）美神 [Toei Animation] (Finished 3/45)Tags:Comedy, SupernaturalIn a world plagued with malicious ghosts, how is it possible to combat the existence of such evil spirits? The answer is to hire a "Ghost Sweeper"—a professional exorcist, whose duty is to exterminate any unwanted ghoul or poltergeist.When it comes to Ghost Sweepers, Reiko Mikami is considered to be a cut above the rest. After receiving an offer to examine a haunting near Jinkotsu Hot Spring, she sets off to put her skills to work. Accompanied by her assistants, the underpaid and perverted high school student Tadao Yokoshima and the friendly teenage ghost Kinu Himuro, GS Mikami details the wacky exploits and adventures of these three as they go about investigating paranormal activities.The closest thing it reminds me is City hunter. Again two partners, again episodic approach with no real plot, again pervy protagonist who does not mind who to grope anything with a skirt. But woman takes the lead here, and cases are usually about ghosts. Humor is ok. It may be ghost aversion talking in me, but GS Mikami does not deserve a masterpiece.Overall Rating: 6/104.Kenyuu Densetsu YaibaLegendary Brave Swordsman Yaiba剣勇伝説ＹＡＩＢＡ [Pastel] (Finished 3/52)Tags:ShounenMartial ArtsAction, Comedy, FantasyKurogane Yaiba is a boy who doesn't want to become what any regular kid would: A samurai. That's why he undergoes a hard training with his father, knowing only the forest as his world. Then, one day, he is sent to Japan, where he has to deal with a whole new civilized reality, meeting the Mine family, the evil Onimaru and even the legendary Musashi, having lots of dangerous adventures, becoming stronger everyday.I never heard of Yaiba and it never got my attention during previous chronological MAL exploration. Now I understand, why - it's a shounen for smaller children. Kind of Dragon Ball setting meets Dororo story development. There have been so many decent Dragon Ball imitators that this one does not stand out.Overall Rating: 6/105.Dragon Leagueドラゴンリーグ [Gallop] (Finished 3/39)Tags:ShounenAdventure, Comedy, Fantasy, SportsTokio and his father Amon go to the soccer country of Elevenia where they see a parade of the strongest soccer team of that country, the Winners. Amon challenges the team captain Leon to a soccer battle and, when Amon loses, Leon turns him into a miniature dragon. Tokio sees the fight and decides to challenge against Leon so that Amon can become human again.This fantasy spokon is dubbed on so many languages that it's evident from the start that it's a safe story for kids. It looks like author wanted to make a perfect kid story and hesitated between dragons, dinosaurs and soccer, then just decided to wrap it all in. It's so bad, I can't discuss it seriously.Overall Rating: 4/106.Shippuu! Iron Leaguer疾風！アイアンリーガー [Sunrise] (Finished 3/52)Tags:ShounenMecha, Team Sports Sci-FiThe Iron League: a place where teams of robots, under individual "owners", play various sports and duke it out in tournaments. Mach Windy is a member of Dark Prince, a team that doesn't play fair and fights dirty to win. Unsatisfied with the actions of his teammates, he defects against the will of Dark Prince's nefarious owner and joins Silver Prince: the weakest team in the league. Alongside faithful companions such as Magnum Ace and Bull Armor, Mach Windy and Silver Prince will battle against Dark Prince in games of soccer and baseball, and aim for the top!Another wrongly marked kids show. Sunrise has hit a new low.Overall Rating: 1/107.Nekketsu Saikyou Go-Saurer熱血最強ゴウザウラー [Sunrise] (Finished 1/51)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiThe Kikaika (literally mechanization) Empire invades our solar system, and in a matter of moments they take over and convert Neptune, Uranus, Saturn, Jupiter,and Mars, and set their sights on Earth. However, one thing stands in their way. Earth's ancient protector and soldier of light, Eldoran. To fight this menace he gifts a 5th-grade class with 3 huge robotic dinosaurs, with the power to merge and form the giant robot Gosaurer, which they then can pilot and use to stop the Kikaika Empire's advances.I'll soon be saying "It's Sunrise, so avoid at all cost" with this tendency. Usual stupid Sunrise stuff with stupid story, stupid enemies and every single character being stupid as well.Overall Rating: 3/108.GunnmBattle Angel Alita銃夢 GUNNM [Madhouse] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenMechaDrama, Sci-FiDoc Ido, a doctor and mechanic who lives and works in the hellish, postapocalyptic "Scrapyard," finds the—miraculously preserved—remains of a female cyborg in a junk heap. After he revives and rebuilds her, the preternaturally strong, amnesiac "Gally" begins to forge a life for herself in a world where every day can bring a fight for life.I watched it twice in the past, and both times it was great. With pounding heart has watched it again now to see if was missing some flaws. It hits all my weak spots so precisely that I have a really hard time finding any shortcomings in it at all. It's both perfect and genius. It's staggering how it all fit in just one hour and finished with every single character line complete. The world conquest of anime begins now.Overall Rating: 10/109.Kyou kara Ore wa!!今日から俺は！！ [Pierrot] (Finished 10/10)Tags:ShounenDelinquentsComedyTwo transfer students, Mitsuhashi Takashi and Itou Shinji, tired of their boring normal life and unpopularity decide to take their arrival at a new school as an opportunity to reinvent their image, and become delinquents! Itou's justice clashing with Mitsuhashi's mischievous ways, they initially antagonize one another but soon become fast friends. The delinquent duo set out on various misadventures to become the greatest delinquents in all Japan!There have been a lot of delinquents anime, I could rate as masterpieces only Karate-bu and Shounan Bakusouzoku, because only those had a good balance of violence and humor while others relied on violence so much that it got repetitive. Compared to themKyou kara Ore wa has a tilt towards comedy while staying serious, plus it issued over five years, so there is time to make each episode as saturated as possible. Since it's better than competitors and I could enjoy it, it's a 8, not higher since it's anything but intellectual.Overall Rating: 8/1010.Ai Monogatari: 9 Love Stories愛物語 9 Love Stories [Studio Deen] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, RomanceAn OVA based on the work of Kawaguchi Kaiji consisting of nine independent stories, each animated by a different director. With Beatles music involved, somewhere.Can't stand omnibus format. There's roughly 90 minutes for 9 stories, so I don't know what to talk about here, no time even to learn names, just throw concept and go on.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Suna no Bara: Yuki no Mokushiroku砂の薔薇[デザート・ローズ] 雪の黙示録 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ActionMariko Rosebank leads a team of all-female anti-terrorist mercenaries, named C.A.T. This all-woman team is sent to guard a meeting of world leaders against a terrorist attack.A very short and very ordinary action by female squad, too bland to waste time on it.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Singles [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoRomanceGraduating senior Sakisaka Saki is secretly in love with her older sister Noriko's boyfriend, Kazame Kaname, unaware that Noriko and Kaname have broken up. Saki hopes to escape her dilemma when she goes to college, but she ends up attending the same college as Kaname. During orientation, she is recruited to Kaname's video club. He wants to film her, but so does another boy, Tachibana Daichi, who is secretly in love with her. Can the knots be untangled and true love find its true course?30 minutes of talks about feelings and long sights.Overall Rating: 5/1013.Fight!! [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Fantasy, SupernaturalYonosuke Hikura appears to be an ordinary high school student. Yet he has inherited the important role of protecting the harmony between Heaven and Earth. With the help of the magical sword Chitentai, and Tsukinojo Inbe, he courageously battles the demons, sending them back to the Earth World, from which they have escaped.It all takes only 30 minutes and over half of it is wasted to find the just dropped artifact, so imagine the depth of the demon fighting part. Rushed and chaotic with nothing to remember by.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Pops [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoRomance, Slice of LifeHarada Kusuko is a high school girl with a secret crush on the class playboy, Mishima Takeshi. After breaking up with his most recent girlfriend, Mishima asks Kusuko to be his date for the class trip to Kyoto. She's over the moon, but in fact, Mishima is hung up on Shouko, his middle school teacher. Despite the age gap (and general inappropriateness of the relationship), Mishima still sees Shouko, whose marriage is disintegrating. His friend and loyal wingman, Kotaro, openly disapproves of this connection. As the emotional tensions mount, Mishima becomes involved in fights with other boys, and eventually, he's expelled from school. Feeling like he's been a complete jerk, Mishima breaks up with Kusuko and drops out of her life. Will true love find a way?What 30 minutes is enough for? For anything! So let's draw a full-scale love square with many bystanders and emotional events! Except that it's going to be super rushed with no one properly fleshed out. Add to that immature juvenile hysterics and you'll get the idea.Overall Rating: 5/1015.NG Knight Ramune & 40 DX: Wakuwaku Jikuu - Honoo no DaisousasenNG騎士ラムネ&40DX ワクワク時空炎の大捜査戦 [Production Reed] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenAdventure, Comedy, FantasyLamune and Da Cider head off to Puff-Puff Palace to rescue two beautiful barely clothed maidens, Gold Mountain and Silver Mountain- the Mountain Duo. This of course infuriates Milk and Leska, who with a rather confused and unwilling Cocoa "transform" into "Seinaru Milky", "Seinaru Cacao", and "Seinaru Lemon". The three then head after their would-be boyfriends to extract their revenge.Humor has become more crazy, but surprisingly more fun as well. A rare example of sequel surpassing prequel.Overall Rating: 6/1016.Oshare Kozou wa HanamaruThe Fashion Boy is Coolお洒落小僧は花マルッ [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoRomanceKotobuki is a cheerful outgoing 14 year old girl. She's a young lady with good fashion sense and her favorite pass-time includes browsing through specialty shops, gift shops, and clothing stores. Her favorite store is "Galopine Et Galopin", a clothing store run by a young fashion designer named Hodaka-san. Hodaka is a handsome, quiet, reserved young man who's designs are making him very popular in the fashion world.Usual naïveShoujois addressed now to twice older fashion designer. Ugh, way too simple.Overall Rating: 5/1017.Nenbutsu Monogatari念仏物語 [-] (Finished 0/7)Tags:HistoricalA telling of Pure Land Buddhism focusing on Shinran Shounin and Rennyo.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1018.Juubee NinpuuchouNinja Scroll 獣兵衛忍風帖 [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Historical, SamuraiAdventure, Fantasy, Horror, Romance, SupernaturalJubei Kibagami wanders feudal Japan as an itinerant swordsman-for-hire. After a past betrayal left him masterless, he has no more patience for warring political factions and their schemes. Unfortunately, both past and political intrigue collide when he meets and saves a female ninja named Kagero from a man with the ability to make his body as hard as stone.The sole survivor of a ninja clan, Kagero continues her team's last mission: investigate a mysterious plague that wiped out an entire village. Jubei wants nothing to do with this, but the stone-like man's allies, a group of ninja with supernatural powers known as the Devils of Kimon, make that option difficult. To make matters worse, a government spy poisons Jubei, promising him an antidote if he can unravel the true intentions of the Devils of Kimon and their connection to the plague. The trail leads to shadow leaders, a plot to overthrow the government, and a man that Jubei thought he would never see again.I'm not being greedy here or anything, but I could not enjoy it, no real thrill - just action and more and more weird enemies. If only it had more historical or even imaginary plot focus or fleshed out protagonists.Overall Rating: 6/1019.Mii-chan no Tenohiraみいちゃんのてのひら [Magic Bus] (Finished 0/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaBased on the book by Kikuko Inaba.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1020.Umi ga KikoeruThe Ocean Waves 海がきこえる[Studio Ghibli] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SchoolDrama, Romance, Slice of LifeIn the city of Kouchi, high school student Taku Morisaki is going about his work when his friend Yutaka Matsuno calls and asks him to get to their school as soon as possible. Taku arrives, and Matsuno introduces him to Rikako Muto, a beautiful girl from Tokyo who recently transferred to their school. Although Rikako is academically and athletically gifted, her generally unpleasant attitude leaves her with virtually no friends outside of Matsuno and another girl from her class.After a chance encounter during their class trip, Taku suddenly finds himself more involved in Rikako's personal life, much to Matsuno's dismay. Struggling to balance his friendship with Matsuno and his own budding infatuation for Rikako, Taku must come to terms with his feelings and understand how a girl with a troubled past is having such a massive effect on his life.Wow, first Ghibli work to be rated so low by me. Reason is that it's even worse than "Only Yesterday" that had at least two nice fantasy-like moments and understandable concept. Umi ga Kikoeru has zero good scenes. Every scene with main heroine Rikako is painful for me as she is an absolutely hysterical jerk. And after some 5 events , each with like half year pause between them love just happens, just because. The only reason last scene is depicted as happy one is because Rikako shuts her mouth for once , because every time she speaks it's some utter nonsense. And of course after "Only Yesterday" we get another stupid case of hitting female in the face... why everything is so bad here...Overall Rating: 5/10

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Anime of the Year 1993-I Winter - Musekinin Kanchou Tylor

By kivandopulus, October 3, 2022

Anime of the Year

In the end could only point outMusekinin Kanchou Tyloras a minor masterpiece.1.Musekinin Kanchou TylorThe Irresponsible Captain Tylor無責任艦長タイラー [Tatsunoko Production] (Finished 26/26)Tags:Comedy, Sci-FiAdult Cast, Military, Parody, SpaceJusty Ueki Tylor is an average 20-year-old man: lazy, greedy, and a passionate womanizer. He plans to land an easy job with the United Planets Space Force that pays decently and is also far away from the rigorous combat raging throughout the galaxy.However, Tylor's dreams of living a simple life are brought to a sudden halt when he stumbles into a dangerous hostage situation. Through one strange mishap after another, Tylor miraculously manages to save the hostages and is awarded command of the decrepit space-cruiser Soyokaze!Now Tylor finds himself in charge of sending mad mercenaries, proud pilots, skeptical colleagues, and harsh commanders through the infinite expanse of the universe, all the while avoiding the looming threat of the Holy Raalgon Empire. What misadventures await the irresponsible Captain Tylor?I watched Irresponsible Captain Tylor before, but not sure if 1993 or 1995 version. What struck me back in early space genius tactics Space Battleship Yamato and Legend of Galactic Heroes was that they did not really boast of good tactics compared to modern examples and often relied on luck or just sucked up damage. Tylor brings that concept to the ultimate as it's a comedy that relies on pure luck with rare exceptions. Show has great funny characters and good pace with solid humor. I've praised enough to get into masterpiece range, time to focus on negatives to derive final score. It's not intellectual, so can't surpass 8. The setup with story and characters gets finalized by the 7th episode, and then there is a series of space SOL episodes. In the second half of the series tempo receives a blow and concentration starts to fade at times. Since the story was never serious, approaching the ending brings more and more nonsense, and that's just unsatisfying. Minor masterpiece score fits just right here.Overall Rating: 7/102.Wakakusa Monogatari: Nan to Jo-sensei若草物語ナンとジョー先生 [Nippon Animation] (Finished 4/40)Tags:Historical, SchoolDrama, Slice of LifeNan Harding is the new student at Mr. and Mrs. Bhaer's school. Everyone thinks that she is a pain in the head, but not Mrs. Jo. Together with the other kids, they all embark on their personal adventures and misfortunes while learning in school.Finally Wakakusa Monogatari loses real connection with novel and lives its own life with a new protagonist as if from Ghibli works and one of old protagonists being just one of the teachers. Usual world masterpiece theater fans can rage all they want, but it's the best world masterpiece theater series at least for the sheer amount of comedy in it. Sadly, comedy takes only a part of the time, and mostly it's just SOL with small adventures and learning important lessons, blah-blah-blah. Something adults can hardly involve into.Overall Rating: 6/103.Miracle☆Girlsミラクル☆ガールズ [Japan Taps] (Finished 3/51)Tags:ShoujoDramaMikage and Tomomi Matsunaga are Miracle Girls: they have a telepathic link with each other and can teleport when they link their little fingers. Tomomi is a sports star and has a boyfriend called Noda. Mikage is the smartest student in the school and is in love with her sempai. He moved to London to study but they still kept in touch, that is until a selfish princess called Marie decides that he should come with her back to Diammas. Back in Japan the twins are having various problems of their own. But they soon realise that there is a link between Marie, an ancient legend, and a girl they know called Emma.Telepathy... teleportation... jumping for 20 meters... I'm so prejudiced against espers that it starts as a downer already. Shoujo immature romance focus does not add points as well. It's terribly chaotic and I can't call it even decent.Overall Rating: 5/104.Yuusha Tokkyuu Might Gaine勇者特急マイトガイン [Sunrise] (Finished 3/47)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, Sci-FiNouvelle Tokio City locates on the place where it used to be Tokyo Bay. At the first glance, the prosperous city seems to enjoy its freedom and peace, but the city is suffering from the crimes.Senpuuji Maito is a perfect 15-year-old boy, bright, handsome, smart, and all-around sportsman. Furthermore, he is the leader of Senpuuji Trading group, and a multimillionaire. He spends his private fortune to found "Brave Express Squad"? which consists of several robots. They are the robots that have various special abilities. Above all, the leader, Gaine, has a super artificial intelligence and has own personality. They can transform into trains. In case of incidents, they will appear anywhere in the world using the highly developed railway system.Another horrible Sunrise mecha. I welcome the fact that it's humor-focused so that there is a single reason that someone might watch it longer. A collection of beaten stamps besides that.Overall Rating: 5/105.Aa! Megami-sama!ああっ女神さまっ [AIC] (Finished 5/5)Tags:SeinenComedy, Romance, SupernaturalWhen college student Keiichi Morisato dials the wrong number while ordering for some food at his dormitory, he accidentally gets connected to the Goddess Hotline and a beautiful goddess named Belldandy appears out of a mirror in front of him. After getting kicked out of the dorm, Keiichi and Belldandy move to an old shrine and soon afterwards, Belldandy's sisters Urd and Skuld move in.Tenchi was the first harem, although it did not feel mature with normal protagonist and heroines that looked a bit childish. Megami-sama is an attempt to bring in harem with mature , yet fantasy-imbued females and slightly mischievous protagonist, as well as focus on actual romance rather than repelling space invaders. It's just six episodes, so as long as the whole cast gathers there's already anxiety about future parting and finale arc to start. So there's hardly anything to evaluate as the core itself between beginning and ending is missing.Overall Rating: 6/106.Dragon Halfドラゴンハーフ [Production I.G] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ParodyComedy, FantasyMink is no ordinary teenage girl, being half-human and half-dragon. Her father had fallen in love with a red dragon he intended to kill, and instead of slaying the dragon, he married her. Their union gave birth to Mink, who inherited horns, a tail, retractable wings, and incredible strength—characteristics which signify her dragon half nature.Mink spends her days accompanied by her friend Pia, a dwarf girl with overprotective parents, and her best friend Lufa, an elf with great healing powers but impressively bad magic. The three find themselves mooning over the dreamy and charming dragonslayer, Dick Saucer. But in a sudden, absurd turn of events, Mink gets closer than ever to the object of her fantasies, only to realize that her love may never be reciprocated because of her dragon heritage.Thus, the trio sets out on a quest to find a potion that will make Mink fully human. They may unwittingly make enemies, but they are sure to have one heck of a good time.A comedy about cute half-dragon female and a group that sends dragon hunters after her... but she tries to get main dragon-hunter autograph all the time. It's fun enough, but too short to matter.Overall Rating: 6/107.Moldiverモルダイバー [AIC] (Finished 6/6)Tags:MechaAction, Romance, Sci-FiHiroshi Ozora invents the Mol Unit, a device that makes its user invincible. His plans of becoming a super hero are short lived however when his sister, Mirai, accidently modifies the suit configuration. Now she is forced to save Tokyo by herself from the evil Machinegal and his gang of all-female androids.What's there to like? Girl fighting mecha? Story? Action? Humor? Absolutely everything is average here, plus a fat doze of fanservice is mixed in for better digestion. It looks like Moldiver tried to play at the field of Gunbuster and humiliated itself miserably.Overall Rating: 5/108.Kishin HeidanKishin Corps機神兵団 [AIC] (Finished 7/7)Tags:Historical, MechaAdventure, Sci-FiOctober 1941, as the second World War threatens to destroy the civilized world, an unforeseen complication suddenly occurs. An alien invasion! Despite the sudden appearance of these extraterrestrial aggressors, the Axis and Allies continue their destructive conflict. Only the Kishin Corps and their giant Geo-Armor Robots (a.k.a.: Kishin), developed from a captured alien robot soldier, stand between the Earth and total annihilation!A teenager, named Taishi, suddenly finds himself at the center of a struggle over a mysterious black attaché case entrusted to him by his father, Professor Tokamura. The case contains the controlling mechanism for one of the giant Geo-Armor Robots, and the Japanese Kanto Army, the alien invaders, and the Kishin Corps all want to recover the device! Between the spies, the armies, the aliens, and the Giant Robots, Taishi is in for an epic adventure—if he can survive it!The plot just leaves me speechless, because it's hard to imagine a person who reads this synopsis and says yeah, I'd like to watch it. I don't like mecha or action, so there's nothing to like here at all. Don't watch this stupidity. It may be contagious. .Overall Rating: 4/109.Kouryuu Densetsu Villgust甲竜伝説ヴィルガスト [animate Film] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, RomanceVillgust is a peaceful world that exists parallel to ours. However, now an evil deity has been revived and has sent evil creatures to destroy many countries, which left darkness and terror to rule the world. The peoples' prayers and cries has reached out to the goddess Windina and in order to free the world from darkness she chose eight brave warriors to defeat the evil deity. Although blessed, these warriors are unaware at the path chosen for them, thus the two groups of Kui, Chris, Fanna, and Youta must meet up with Murobo, Remi, Ryuquir, and Bostov before they can follow the path chosen for them and defeat the evil deity.Adventurer party is always great. Adventurer parties fighting each others make my blood boil. But compared to Lodoss this one is much shorter, comedy focused and even with chibi characters. Decent is all it can get.Overall Rating: 6/1010.Unkai no Meikyuu Zeguy雲界の迷宮ZEGUY [KSS] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Action, Adventure, FantasyMysterious warriors appear to blast Miki into another dimension! She flees her captors only to find herself trapped in a world of monsters and madmen who plot the downfall of Earth.The only power that can possible save her (and the world) is that of the mysterious Mask of Zeguy. Miki must embark on a life-or-death quest for this talisman, with the villains who kidnapped in hot pursuit!Warp in time is usually a bad idea. Gathering famous people from different era is usually a bad idea. Cramping it all into two episodes with very little explanation is definitely a bad idea.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Al Caral no IsanLegacy of Aru Kararuアル・カラルの遺産 [animate Film] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenSpaceSci-FiIn the 26th century, humans discover a humanoid race living on the distant world GO/7498/2, a dark-skinned, golden-eyed people who seem to eke out a primitive, carefree existence. However, a scout team from Earth discovers that there is more to them than meets the eye--they live in symbiosis with vicious reptilian parasites, and the Terran scientists have upset the delicate natural balance.Another work that aims to appeal to space exploration fans. Very uninspiring development and anticlimactic ending.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Magma TaishiAmbassador Magmaマグマ大使 [Tezuka Productions] (Finished 13/13)Tags:ShounenSpace, Super PowerAction, Sci-FiThe alien invader Goa plots to conquer the Earth. He first warns the Murakami family (father Atsushi, mother Tomoko, and son Mamoru) of their invasion, and demonstrates his powers by transporting them to a prehistoric jungle and destroying a Giant Dinosaur before their very eyes. But they will not agree to surrender to Goa, so hope comes in the form of Magma, an armored, golden giant with long hair and antennae. He and his human-sized wife Mol, both created by the wizard Earth are sent to defend our world against Goa. They befriend Atsushi and Mamoru, the latter has Magma emotionally touched, as he wanted to have a child with his wife Mol, so Earth creates a duplicate of Mamoru, named Gam Earth gives Mamoru a whistle, with which he can call Gam Mol and Magma in times of crisis. So when Goa unleashes his various daikaiju, chances are, Magma, Mol, and Gam will fly to the rescue.Tezuka Productions is reviving a very ancient franchise, and it's worrying since those old franchises are usually too simple for 1990s already. It's not something I'd usually watch, but I'm interested in studio evolution. It did pretty well with Oniisama e... , but this time story is much more comples with multiple protagonists - Mamoru, his clone Namu and superpower wielding Magma. They rarely are in one place, so there are constant shifts between different stages, and that irritates a lot, especially if we're getting distracted for nothing like Magma fighting just one more giant octopus or something. There's not enough verbal explanation, and there are often unexplained actions happening and new actors encountered. Another pain is Mamoru himself, as he always shouts hysterically. Setting gets finalized only by the end of 6th episodes, and, needless to say, few would wait up to this point. The giant and dinosaur happen only in 11th episodes with 13 episodes total. It's all very confusing. As I see it, Tezuka Productions took this manga up for staging because it was moderately interesting, old and because it had some environmentalism with Mother Earth as one of the characters. What I like in this work is visuals, animation techniques occasionally used, one continuous story where each episode is totally different, character and monster designs. What I don't like is pretty much everything else - story, huge number of characters, confusion, hysterical protagonist, magma himself as invulnerable pseudo-mecha, many remnants of the ancient 60s works.Overall Rating: 5/1013.Anata ga Furikaeru Tokiあなたが振り返るとき [Grouper Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoSchoolRomanceThree shorts based on stories by Hanai Aiko, who also directed this OVA.Not translated. Omnibus with 30 minutes length means it's 10 minutes per school romance story. But it's not the worst thing here. Basically, it's coloredstillimages and camera just moves left-right, corner-corner, zoom in-out. There are rare exceptions, but it can't be called anime, just a shame.Overall Rating: 4/1014.Offsideオフサイド [-] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Drama, SportsMain character Goro Kumagai leads a small soccer high school club to success.Not translated. Length is just 50 mins, so there is only some match, sudden drama of love interest girl, then credits for the first half, and second half begins with all drama forgotten, another match ensues. What nonsense.Overall Rating: 4/1015.Ganbare Goemon: Jigen Jou no Akumuがんばれゴエモン次元城の悪夢 [AIC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ComedyIt was originally released in 1991 as part of a campaign to celebrate the 5th anniversary of the Ganbare Goemon series, being distributed as a lottery prize for purchasers of the Super Famicom game Ganbare Goemon: Yukihime Kyūshutsu Emaki (known outside of Japan as The Legend of the Mystical Ninja). It was later distributed as a user gift tie-in for purchasers of Ganbare Goemon 3: Shishijūrokubē no Karakuri Manji Gatame. The OVA features segments parodying three other popular Konami franchises: Gradius, Akumajō Dracula and TwinBee.Since it's just a fan story for NES game with multiple crossovers, it's 25 minutes of pure chaos. To get something from the story should wait for the series released in 1997.Overall Rating: 4/1016.Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Ramaラーマーヤナラーマ王子伝説 [Nippon Ramayana Film Co.] (Finished 1/1)Tags:AdventureRama, the eldest prince of the Kingdom of Ayodhya, is beloved by all and the natural successor to his father's throne. However, when one of his father's wives conspires to get her son on the throne instead, Rama ends up being banished into the woods for 14 years. Accompanied by his wife, Sita, and his brother, Lakshman—Rama tries to make the most of life in exile despite his challenges.The trio's life in the forest is interrupted, however, when Demon King Ravan sets his sights on Sita. Using a crafty plan, he manages to distract Rama and steal Sita away to his castle. Heartbroken and distraught, Rama searches every corner of the world for his wife, unaware of the lengths he will have to go to rescue her.No offence intended, but story is a nonsense bore from a dated source. It was made with only Indian watchers in mind. The only way anyone would want to watch it is being Indian/needing to write report on Ramayana/being forced to watch it on TV.Overall Rating: 5/1017.Sangokushi: Dai Ni Bu - Choukou Moyu!Great Conquest: Romance of Three Kingdoms 三国志第二部長江燃ゆ![Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalActionAn anime based on the Romance of the Three Kingdoms novel.Continuation of Sangokushi: Dai Ichi Bu - Eiyuu-tachi no Yoake that I absolutely hated as humiliation to original movies and series. This sequel again beats around the bush and kinda ends with naval battle. Why? Why ruin absolutely perfect franchise with absolutely horrible remake?.Overall Rating: 3/10

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Anime of the Year 1993-III Summer - Kidou Keisatsu Patlabor 2 the Movie

By kivandopulus, October 7, 2022

Anime of the Year

Can nominate onlyKidou Keisatsu Patlabor 2 the MovieandCrayon Shin-chan Movie 01: Action Kamen vs. Haigure Maouas minor masterpieces.1.Tenchi Muyou! Ryououki: Omatsuri Zenjitsu no Yoru!天地無用！魎皇鬼 SPECIAL お祭り前日の夜！ [AIC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenHaremComedy, Romance, Sci-FiAfter his recent battle in space, Tenchi Masaki believes that his fighting days are over. Unfortunately, his life is far from peaceful since Aeka Jurai Masaki and Ryouko Hakubi—the two women giving him the most grief—cannot seem to get along, continuing to fight over who gets to be Tenchi's lover.Since their usual romantic strategies fail, Aeka and Ryouko decide to research how to woo a man. After spending hours going through shoujo manga, the two decide to act like the girls they've read about and put Tenchi through various scenarios, with the hope that he will fall in love with one of them.Compared to original setting is finalized already, so there is room for more humor and harem stuff as there is hardly any story in special. Better, yet not great.Overall Rating: 6/102.Casshern: Robot HunterCasshan: Robot Hunterキャシャーン [Tatsunoko Production] (Finished 4/4)Tags:MechaAdventure, Sci-FiIn the near future, robot technology has advanced to the point of self-awareness. Under the leadership of the "Black King," machines have decimated the human population and conquered the world. Those who survived the early holocaust have been enslaved for life. But throughout the hardships, a lone hero appears as the savior of mankind. He is Casshan - a fusion of man and machine driven to combat Black King and his forces to the end.This anime does not even have any credible source, just a horrible superpower flick from the 1970s. Everything remains pretty schematic, and with the rotten core no building around it can bring anything good.Overall Rating: 5/103.Mermaid's Scar人魚の傷[Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, Fantasy, Horror, MysteryLegend has it that when you eat the flesh of a mermaid, you would live forever. Yuta and Mana are living proof of this... Together, they journey to various places trying to find meaning for their existence, or perhaps even a "cure" for their situation. One day, Yuta and Mana meet Masato, a little boy who seems terrified of his mother Misa. It seems to Yuta and Mana that mother and son have a very unusual relationship. What happens when Yuta and Mana decide to discover the dark secret Masato and Misa are hiding? And what about those monster-like creatures that have been appearing?Mermaid forest prequel was plain horrible, this one is also pretty disgusting, only for those who like trashy depressing horrors.Overall Rating: 5/104.Eightman After8 Man Afterエイトマン AFTER [J.C.Staff] (Finished 4/4)Tags:Action, Drama, Sci-FiPrivate detective Hazama Itsuru is hired by Professor Tani to investigate a cyborg parts theft which eventually leads him to meet Sachiko Yokogawa, the original 8 Man's love interest. Living her new life working for the Biotecho Corp., Sachiko finds herself involved with a new 8 Man, who appears after Hazama is fatally wounded by an unknow cyborg. Amidst a violent urban background with cyber-junkies creating chaos around the city, this other 8 Man will fight criminals in a more agressive way.Eightman waschronologicallythe first anime that I rated as ONE. This superhero continuation with schematic plot is disgrace to the whole cyberpunk genre. Also has some disturbingly bloody scenes.Overall Rating: 4/105.A-GirlA-Girl [エー・ガール] [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoMusic, SchoolRomanceHigh-school student Mariko and her elder sister Mayu are forced out of their apartment by a fire and move in with their landlord. Mariko meets the landlord's handsome son, Natsume, who is also a model. They fall in love but break up when Mariko discovers that Natsume is seeing other girls. Eventually, they are reunited, and the end credits roll.A-Girl has no dialog and is performed against a background of Japanese pop songs composed by Okada Tooru and sung in English! by SEIKA. Intertiles provide continuity, like in old silent films.It's a musical with all the dialogues shown at still black screen like in old movies. There's also pretty weird torn directorship with a lot of disjointed scenes not getting into integral picture...Overall Rating: 5/106.Youseiki SuikodenSuikoden Demon Century妖世紀水滸伝 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Martial ArtsAction, FantasyIn the early 21st century, an earthquake destroyed Tokyo. Japan lost its center of government and industry, and turned into a lawless territory. Looking for his sister, Takateru Suga learns that she was kidnapped by the powerful Koryukai gang. He decides to ally himself with a drag queen, two ex-mercenaries and a nun to destroy the crime organization and save his sister!Well, yeah, a bunch of different guys attack organization and rescue sister, sometimes it looks good, but the main question is why exactly should someone spend 45 minutes on cheap action.Overall Rating: 5/107.Big Wars: Kami Utsu Akaki Kouya niBig Wars ビッグ・ウォーズ神撃つ朱き荒野に [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Military, SpaceAction, Sci-FiIt is the dawn of the 21st century. Mankind has terraformed and colonized Mars. But we are not alone in the universe. An ancient race of alien beings, known only as "The Gods," has been watching mankind's progress ...and waiting. Now, these mysterious aliens have returned to halt mankind's expansion into space ...by force.Now, the planet named after the God of War will become our final battlefield, as mankind fights a desperate battle with the latest in high-tech, military hardware: hyper-advanced aircraft, orbital fighters, and gigantic, desert battleships brimming with the most advanced weaponry.But will it be enough? The aliens have awesome, incredibly destructive weapons at their disposal—including "Hell"—an unstoppable stealth carrier. But the alien's primary weapon is insidiously quiet and invisible—a mind control plaque. Incurable. Inevitable. Contagious. Humans are powerless to resist its effects, which transforms even the most loyal soldiers into dangerous subversives.Our last hope lies with Captain Akuh and the crew of the Battleship Aoba. If his top-secret mission is successful, mankind will deal a decisive blow to the alien armada. But Akuh's girlfriend is showing signs of nymphomania—the first symptom of alien subversion!It's mostly about hallucinations, gore and explosions. Often surreal development and unsatisfying ending contribute to the weak impact.Overall Rating: 5/108.Bad Boys [Toei Video] (Finished 3/5)Tags:SeinenDelinquentsAction, ComedyTsukasa, Yoji, and Eiji are friends and members of the motorcycle gang called the Paradise Butterflies. Riding the streets of Hiroshima, their goal in life is to top all other gangs in their city.Only three of five episodes are translated. This is one of three delinquents anime that were issued at a pace of 1-2 episodes over many years, and these are usually of higher quality than usual - better pace and comedy with more variation. It's generally on the same level as Shounan Bakusouzoku.I'd consider giving it a masterpiece if it was fully translated.Overall Rating: 6/109.Idol Bouei-tai HummingbirdHummingbirds アイドル防衛隊ハミングバード[Ashi Productions] (Finished 4/4)Tags:Idols (Female), Military, Music, ParodyComedyWhen the Japanese government puts civilian organizations in charge of the country's air force, some of these companies decide to put their aspiring idol singers behind the controls of their fighter planes. Among these groups of idol singers is Hummingbird, a five-woman team consisting of the Toreishi sisters: Satsuki, Uzuki, Yayoi, Kanna and Mina. During a taping session, video director Kudou sees some potential in these girls and jumps in to help them reach the top of the charts by directing their debut video.It's musical with idols in the first place and military as a side dish. Not bad , especially after a huge number of failed modern idol anime, but not a masterpiece .Overall Rating: 6/1010.Hon RanCrimson Wolf紅狼[ホンラン] [Streamline Pictures] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Martial ArtsActionThe fate of the world rests in the ability of three untested warriors to defeat an unearthly army of darkness. Sorcery, martial arts and an unrequited love, spanning the centuries, explode in an epic battle at the gates of the forbidden city. Crimson Wolf is an unusual departure for the Anime genre - rooted in real world reference, it makes the fantasy all the more believable.A cringy story with past mystical references and strangely placed nudity.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Ryuuseiki GakusaverShooting Star Gakusaver流星機ガクセイバー [Production I.G] (Finished 6/6)Tags:Mecha, Parody, School, SpaceAction, Comedy, Sci-FiA gigantic meteorite landed on earth a few years back. A mysterious capsule believed to have belonged to the aliens was discovered. Called the "black box," an international organization called "Project BB" was created to research it.Eight boys, including Manabu Yoshimura, attend International Academy, a school located near Project BB headquarters. They are enticed by their teacher Toukichi Hashiba's promise of "I'll give you class credit," and end up getting involved in his experiment. The experiment was to enter the eight empty chambers of meteorite. According to Hashiba's theory, the meteorite should strongly respond to strong human thoughts. He tells them to have a clear image of a great looking gigantic robot; if they do, something should happen...Then, a big spaceship appears in the sky and an alien calling himself Wercury appears in a 3-D image. He tells them he is from the Star of Prokimasi and that he has come to collect the meteorite of the Choshin people. If they do not hand it over, he will challenge the earth beings to a battle. Manabu and his friends are confused by the unexpected turn of events but the meteorite responds to the thoughts of the group and suddenly starts to transform itself into a gigantic robot. Then, attacked by the invading Prokimasi robot, they are forced to pull their strength together and fight back. But it is extremely difficult to put the wills of the eight together as one and the robot cannot fight in the way it should. The gigantic robot that Hashiba named "Gakusaver" and Manabu's eight; can they manage to protect Earth and the meteorite from the Prokimasi invasion?It's so silly that sometimes it's funny. But most of the time it's not. Still, among mecha it's decent.Overall Rating: 6/1012.Akuemon悪右衛門 [Tezuka Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Fantasy, RomanceA fortuneteller tells Hidari Taisho that he must hunt down 1000 foxes in order to conquer the country. So Akuemon, who is disliked by everybody, is hired to do the foxhunting. In response, the foxes send a female fox to Akuemon's house disguised as his wife. A story unfolds between Akuemon, who has never loved anyone, and the female fox, who slowly discovers true love in him even while tormented by sorrow over her comrades' death. This is the 6th work in "The Lion Books" series. It is also the first attempt by visualist Tezuka Makoto, Tezuka's older son, to render an original of his father's into an animated version.Well, Tezuka pulls out some old father's work, but it's not something special, don't know why to spend 25 minutes on it at all. There's just nothing gained after it, resolution is just bad.Overall Rating: 5/1013.Kiss wa Hitomi ni Shiteキッスは瞳にして [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoDrama, RomanceHigh school student Morisato Ibuki has a startling dream about kissing a prince on a white horse. The next day, the prince from her dream, Ebisu Naoto, shows up as a transfer student at her school and a guest at her house. He had indeed kissed her, in an attempt to wake her up in the morning, although he claims that she kissed him. Ibuki is smitten with Naoto, but he seems to have other commitments, to American football and to a mysterious girl called Kawahara Izumi. Meanwhile, Nitta, a shy boy in Ibuki's class, has a crush on her. Will true love eventually find a way?Being cut as at is with dream about a prince on a white horse it's full of usual shoujo stamps and due to 30 minutes length there's no time to transform that impression already. But it has time to insert some song in the middle. In this state it's nothing worthy to talk about.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Oedo wa Nemurenai!お江戸はねむれない! [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoHistoricalDrama, FantasyWe are now in the early 18th century, the Kyouhou era, when the merchant culture was flourishing. In Yoshiwara, the red light district of Edo, there is a popular courtesan with good looks and character, called Usugumo. She in fact is a daughter of a Christianized prostitute and Tokugawa Yoshimune (who was a real historical character and the 8th Shogun of Japan), but the power struggle in these times doesn't allow her to be with her father. Her fate is about to change when she meets the blond haired thief, Kikunosuke. With Kikunosuke, a doctor named Aoto Touichirou, who uses the yet unfamiliar Western medicine, and her pet cat, Kotetsu, Usugumo forms a thief group, the Kikugumi. In the meanwhile, a member of a mysterious group appears, aiming for Usugumo...Again, just 30 minutes, and very little explanation. As a result, it's a series of seemingly random clashes with new and new characters jumping out all the time, also a good doze of cringe with battle dolls.Overall Rating: 5/1015.Mellow女郎 [めろう] [KSS] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenCrossdressing, Delinquents, SchoolComedyA story about a crossdressing teacher handling a delinquent class.Based on the same-name seinen manga by Rin Kasahara.Not translated. Protagonist cross-dresses to hide from yakuza and uses skills gained in the underworld to deal with delinquent class. It barely has anything of notice except eternal trap flashes and stupidest imaginable "humor".Overall Rating: 4/1016.Naniwa Kinyuu Den: Minami no Teiou難波金融伝ミナミの帝王 [KSS] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenComedy, DramaThe story centers around Ginjirou Manda, a loan shark who charges toichi — 10% more interest every 10 days, or 365% every year. Thanks to his unrelenting money-collecting tactics, he is feared as Minami no Oni or the Demon of Osaka's Minami business district.Not translated. Original was live action, and this is kinda its continuation. I don't see the point why would someone want to see one yakuza-like person claiming debts from other yakuza-like persons.Overall Rating: 4/1017.Kidou Keisatsu Patlabor 2 the Movie機動警察パトレイバー2 the Movie [Bandai Visual] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Detective, Mecha, MilitaryDrama, Mystery, Sci-FiThree years after the Babylon Project conspiracy is resolved, the members of Kiichi Gotou's Patlabor unit have gone their separate ways. Gotou remains with the Patlabor team, accompanied by Shinobu Nagumo, his romantic crush and comrade.Playing into the public's skepticism toward the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force, a terrorist organization begins to work from within the military to cause destruction and mass civil unrest throughout Japan. Nagumo learns that the mastermind behind the growing terrorist plot is none other than Yukihito Tsuge, her former mentor and lover.Gotou reassembles his former Patlabor team, spearheaded by pilot Noa Izumi. Leading the team into a mission to arrest Tsuge, Nagumo must come to terms with her complicated past relationships in order to save Japan.It has very little to do with Patlabor franchise since mecha show up for a very little time and all the goofy attitude vanished without trace. It's a serious conspiracy story that in the end allowed its spiritual successor GITS with its tachikomas to truly shine. A lot of interesting visual instruments are used to make constant talks and observation of landscapes less boring. It was still relatively boring for me, even most vague GITS movies never could afford such slow pace.Overall Rating: 7/1018.Yuu☆Yuu☆Hakusho (Movie)Yu Yu Hakusho: The Movie幽☆遊☆白書 [Pierrot] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, MythologyAction, Adventure, Comedy, SupernaturalYusuke Urameshi is not exactly what you'd call an angel. In fact, some might call him down right devilish. But when he dies in an accident trying to save a child, he finds himself in the Spirit World. Unfortunately for Yusuke, his name is not listed in the Book of Enma, which means it was one big mistake! So he should return from the Spirit World, but must pass a few tests first, and become a detective of the spiritual world.So now Yusuke works in the Spirit World as a half-dead, half-alive agent for Koenma, son of the ruler of the Spirit World. This position does have its disadvantages, especially when you're trying to enjoy your summer vacation and Koenma gets kidnapped! So now Yusuke must interrupt his summer fun to find Koenma and trade the Golden Seal of King Enma for his life. But if someone other then King Enma has the Golden Seal there will be chaos in the Spirit World! What's a half-dead spirit detective to do?With the aide of his closest allies, Yusuke sets off for Magma Valley, to save the life of the one who saved his, and find out who's at the bottom of this evil conspiracy.It's called movie with 24 minute length... suuure. All it has is action that is probably important in the course of the series , but was hardly of significance for me. There's even no humor, nothing to add scores for .Overall Rating: 5/1019.Crayon Shin-chan Movie 01: Action Kamen vs. Haigure Maou映画クレヨンしんちゃん　アクション仮面ＶＳハイグレ魔王 [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAction, Adventure, ComedyBy finding a rare Action Kamen card, Shinnosuke Nohara and his family end up being chosen to go to a parallel world and help foil an alien invasion that is occurring over there.It's inevitable that density of jokes suffers if one story takes 90 minutes instead of 7 minutes. I was actually happy to learn more about Action Kamen and kindergarten director. There was quite a number of solid jokes in the course. Being enjoyable is all that matters in the end.Overall Rating: 7/1020.Ohoshi-sama no RailRail of the Star: A True Story of Childrenお星さまのレール [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaThis is the autobiographic tale of Kobayashi Chitose, a young Japanese girl growing up in a Japanese-occupied North Korea. As World War II progresses, Chitose begins to realize that her family will not be able to escape the effects of the conflict. From the simple disappointment of not being able to get the type of backpack she wants for school, to her father's recruitment as a soldier, the war begins to impact her life in a very real manner. But the end of the war does not mean the end of hardship for her. The Koreans, fed up with years of Japanese rule and persecution, have joined forces with a Chinese-backed communist government and are systematically making life a living horror for the Japanese left in North Korea. Fearing reprisal since he was a Japanese veteran, Chitose's father risks everything to get his family out of the north and to the US-occupied area south of the 38th parallel.A surprisingly decent autobiography during WWII. But real lives are rarely interesting, to be honest. I can't sympathize with such things as not getting the rucksack she liked or getting a needle wound or having her toy crushed by Koreans forcing to evacuate... Bigger events are shown through the prism of small events like that. And of course there's no real climax, no real resolution, so nothing outstanding.Overall Rating: 6/1021.Chuumon no Ooi Ryouriten (1993)注文の多い料理店 [-] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Fantasy, Horror, SupernaturalTwo gentlemen from the city go out hunting. After getting lost on a mountain road they found a cheap restaurant. But everything is not as it seems.A 20 minute fairy-tale about tanuki and hunters, nothing to see here.Overall Rating: 5/1022.Rokudenashi Blues 1993ろくでなしBLUES 1993 [Toei Animation] (Finished 0/1)Tags:ShounenCombat Sports, Delinquents, SchoolAction, Comedy, Drama, SportsSequel to the Rokudenashi Blues movie.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1023.Tsuru ni Notte: Tomoko no BoukenOn A Paper Crane: Tomoko's Adventure つるにのってとも子の冒険[Mushi Production] (Finished 1/1)Tags:DramaA young girl named Tomoko visits the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. There she has a mysterious meeting with Sadako, the little girl who was 2 years old when the U.S. dropped the bomb on her city during WWII and 11 when she died from the effects of radiation poisoning. Sadako takes Tomoko on an eye-opening journey.It's 27 minutes long and does not have sub version as of now, only dub one, which is a lot worse, as usual. It's literally an anime about playing with the girl statue that sort of comes to life and seeing those days through statue girl's eyes. And radiated girl is happy, because her country does not have to wage wars ever again... sure... it's too cheesy, really.Overall Rating: 5/1024.Fatal Fury 2: The New Battleバトルファイターズ餓狼伝説 [Studio Comet] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMartial ArtsAction, Adventure, DramaAfter defeating Geese Howard, legendary fighter Terry Bogard faces German warrior Wolfgang Krauser, only to suffer a humiliating defeat. Depressed by his loss, Terry wanders around the country, wasting his life through drinking. Only a young boy named Tony can convince Terry to go back to his winning ways, conquer his fears, and once again face Krauser.Original was horrible. This one has at least logical development and some character introduction. In the end it's still poorly staged fighting anime with possible appeal only for series fans.Overall Rating: 5/1025.Hiroshima ni Ichiban Densha ga Hashittaヒロシマに一番電車が走った [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaThe story follows a girl who works on a streetcar both before and after the bomb drops on Hiroshima.Not translated. The adult protagonist already makes it decent, lol. It's mostly 30 minutes of talks, though, so not outstanding yet again.Overall Rating: 6/1026.Mikan Enikki Specialsみかん絵日記 [Nippon Animation] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoPetsComedy, Slice of LifeAn extra episode and a special of the Mikan Enikki series included as a bonus on VHS/DVD's.First special is about English and a bit about romance, so has very little humor. Second special is less than 15 minutes and about just a... parrot, another miss, so overall specials are decent at best.Overall Rating: 6/10

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VN of the Month September 2022 - BLACK SHEEP TOWN

By kivandopulus, September 30, 2022

VN of the Month 2022

For the time being, I prefer stories without romance at all, andBLACK SHEEP TOWNis a safe bet for me, as for others, time will show1.BLACK SHEEP TOWN[220915] BA-KUThe setting of this work is "District Y".It is a cosmopolitan downtown area where immigrants from all over the world live, and it is full of energy of visitors who enjoy its unique atmosphere, but the other side of the city is a dangerous area where gangs rule and the police have no power.　A decentRenya Setoguchi sound novel story in the setting resembling old Hong Kong. Gangs attack each other, serial maniac with transformation ability terrorizes community, and protagonist alongside officials gets involved in the center of conflict. Story zaps from one party to another.2.2045, Tsuki Yori.２０４５、月より。[220930]MELLOW——Will humans still have “hearts” in 2045?2045. Androids help people and undergo experiments to get more and more human-like.A boy who hates androids, Ieiri Sou,in a local citymeets a woman who is a cutting-edge android born on the moon.Longing for the human world, she escaped from the research institute and disguised herself as a human to run a coffee shop.A boy who has met a strange person gradually learns about the strangeness of the city.A student net idol, anun Sister with superhuman physical abilities and a hidden face, two detectives from organization Public Safety Section Zero, gang leader with overwhelming charisma- they all get involved with human boy and android girl.First two works of MELLOW were rather weird and of low price segment, this one is first full price. Nice cheerful setting, and the whole runaway android problem gets solved easily and early, so it's less about the story and more about the chosen girl. It all depends on implementation.3.Hana wa Mijikashi, Odoreyo Otome華は短し、踊れよ乙女[220930]ensembleIt was about 100 years ago, in the 10th year of the Taishou era.In the midst of a glorious and turbulent time.The protagonist, Yamashina Rin, a kabuki actor who mostly playing onnagata roles, suffered a major setback in one of his performances. However, he found hope in the words of a blond girl he met by chance. In order to improve himself and return to the stage one day, he decided to transfer to an all-girls school oversees by a principal who is an admirer of his, and changed his name to "Fujinami Rin".What awaited him at the school was his first exposure to the glamorous world. The students are the daughters of the prestigious families and foreign students from the West.Arranged by the school's principal, Rin was accepted as a member of the "Eikakai", a group of five maidens who represent the students. In addition, he was assigned to live under the same roof with the Eikakai's girls. There, he also found Chris, the blonde girl who saved him.An election to decide the top maiden, "Nadeshiko no Kimi", will soon be held.Eventually, the purpose of the Eikakai was revealed to Rin, who knew nothing of the situation. The school is currently in the midst of a conflict between the Japanese and the foreigners. In order to solve it, an election will soon be held to decide the top maiden, "Nadeshiko no Kimi".The candidates in the election are the five members of the Eikakai, including Rin. While Chris is the lead candidate for the Western side, Rin has been nominated by the principal as the lead candidate for the Japanese side. Although he was caught up in the principal's scheme, Rin gladly accepted it, as he saw this as an opportunity to improve himself.Thus, with the future of the school and all the girls who attend at stake;The dazzling days of the maidens begin.Trap protagonist story is the last thing I would check out, so let's wait for first impressions4.Homemaid Sweet Peaホームメイドスイートピー[220930]Silky's Connect["Homemade" family made by a maid]"It may have been temporary at first, but it can be a real family."Verbena Manor is an unusual share house run by a maid.There, the residents of Verbena Manor, including the main character, do not know the feeling of a happy family that everyone normally has.This work is a story about them "living as a true family even though they were born differently and have different relations."New Silky's subsidiary, so it may be anything in the range from moege toNanairo Reincarnation, although trial has worrying signs as starts too conveniently5.Houkago Cinderella 2放課後シンデレラ２[220930]HOOKSOFTSpring. The protagonist, Kuzumi Arata, has moved to a new town because of his mother's job transfer.Up to this point, he always has regrets about his student life."What have I been doing with my youth?"He had a part-time job that warmed his pockets. Still, he felt left out, surrounded by people who do their best in club activities and enjoy their love lives.Because of this, he decided to say farewell to his old student life and have a fresh start.Fortunately, he was blessed with new encounters in his new student life.A good male friend.Friendly classmates.An attractive, quiet, and cool classmate.A cheeky kouhai who gets tangled up with him.An enigmatic beauty he met on the train.However, he still has trouble with how he should spend his student life.Inspired by the words of Oze Hazuki, the daughter of the landlord who lives next door, he decided to enjoy his time at his new school leisurely.Then he realizes his inner desire and makes a decision."I want to have an ideal student life where I can go home after school with my girlfriend!"As Hooksoft game and moreover a sequel, no one should have any illusions left by now6.Role player: Tororo Shimai no Nenmaku Portrait - Gurigucha LIVE!Role player：とろろ姉妹の粘膜ポトレ　ぐりぐちゃLIVE！[220930]AKABEiSOFT2One day, I lost something precious.I went to several cosplay events, and took some pictures to satisfy my lust. However, the camera that contained all the pictures was destroyed in an unfortunate accident.Perhaps they didn't want to see my cry anymore, the Yamakake sisters, Sana and Yua, who were involved in the accident, said to me;"Would you like us to cosplay for you instead?"I accepted their offer.Their bodies look lewder than anything that I have ever seen in any erotic manga, and they were willing to be my very own cosplayers!!I put the skills I learned as a fashion student and my hobby of making costumes for dolls to good use, creating costumes for the sisters, and as luck would have it, I was given tickets to the cosplay resort "Costaria", located on a remote island.This was an opportunity for me to get the best portraits in Costaria. However, what awaited me on that island was so much more than I could imagine!"Let's have a different kind of cosplay today.""Erotic role-playing. You'd like that, wouldn't you?"The sisters whispered those words to me.With my very own cosplayers, I'm going to make extreme and intimate portraits that cannot be shown to anyone.I wonder if it's okay to make them──AKABEiSOFT2 continues to issueotakunukige which often have better humor and buildup than normal charage7.Tonari ni Kanojo no Iru Shiawase ~I Fight with Summerとなりに彼女のいる幸せ～i fight with summer～[220930]Prekano"Then a camp! Let's have a training camp in the summer, instead of a reward!"The final exam is over and the summer vacation is about to begin.The club is on the verge of disbanding, but a new member and kouhai, Serizawa Chisa, requested me to hold a training camp at the sea. With the club's small budget, we managed to plan a one-day camp in the club room and at the sea.However, there is no way that a camp with a self-indulgent and mischievous girl like her is going to end without a hitch......The sea, swimsuit, battles!?In the end, what is my relationship with this girl next to me!?A different summer from "that time" (if) is coming!Not fan of single heroine romance low price stories, but since they're issued at consoles, can't ignore them either8.Tsui no Stella終のステラ[220930]KeyIf I make it to the other side of the sky, I can become human...Earth has been taken over by a group of machines that created a "singularity."Humanity is forced to live hidden in the shadows.One day a transporter receives an odd request.Their cargo this time will be a girl android developed as a family member substitute.She is unaffected by the Singularity Machines.Despite being put off by the girl's naive behavior, the transporter sets out on the journey.Sometimes it's human bandits they must evade, other times it's the machines they run from.Undeterred by such dangerous situations, they press on to make the delivery.The girl often talks about wanting to become human.Their destination is a space elevator, so tall it appears to pierce the sky.The rumor is that androids who make it to the top can be made human, but is it true?I feel like Key is lost in self-repeats of not so good but sold well and low effort planetarian ~Chiisana Hoshi no Yume~ in a constant chase for a fast buck. I'd be happy if I'm proved otherwise

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Anime of the Year 1992-IV Fall - Mikan Enikki

By kivandopulus, September 29, 2022

Anime of the Year

Mikan EnikkiandChibi Maruko-chan: Watashi no Suki na Utaare the only masterpieces that I noted with priority to original work over sequel .1.Yuu☆Yuu☆HakushoYu Yu Hakusho: Ghost Files幽☆遊☆白書 [Pierrot] (Finished 6/112)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, MythologyAction, Comedy, SupernaturalOne fateful day, Yuusuke Urameshi, a 14-year-old delinquent with a dim future, gets a miraculous chance to turn it all around when he throws himself in front of a moving car to save a young boy. His ultimate sacrifice is so out of character that the authorities of the spirit realm are not yet prepared to let him pass on. Koenma, heir to the throne of the spirit realm, offers Yuusuke an opportunity to regain his life through completion of a series of tasks. With the guidance of the death god Botan, he is to thwart evil presences on Earth as a Spirit Detective.To help him on his venture, Yuusuke enlists ex-rival Kazuma Kuwabara, and two demons, Hiei and Kurama, who have criminal pasts. Together, they train and battle against enemies who would threaten humanity's very existence.A surprisingly good fighting shounen. It starts as a ghost impersonation story with delinquents - logical, good pace and attractive characters. The problem with this anime is that it manages to keep interested, but actually offers very little. There's no interesting story, there's no good humor. I explain its relatively high scores because it seems to be the first classical ongoing shounen like Bleach or Naruto or Hunter x Hunter, and - long things short - I seriously hate those. The result we get is just finding enemies with relatively nice characters and then fighting them. What's to like here is beyond my understanding .Overall Rating: 6/102.Hime-chan no Ribbon姫ちゃんのリボン [Gallop] (Finished 4/61)Tags:ShoujoSchoolComedy, Fantasy, RomanceErika, the princess of the Magic Kingdom has come to Earth in order to find a human girl who looks just like her. That girl turns out to be Himeko Nonohara, a tomboy's tomboy. Erika must give Himeko a magical item she has created in order to prove her worth as a successor to the crown. Himeko must test this item, a hair ribbon that allows her to transform into any other person she sees, to see if it is worthy. The series follows Himeko's adventures and her budding romance with Daichi, the boy who discovers her secret.All the shoujo/jousei that I think highly of have older heroines, at least high school for the proper complexity (yet just high school without complexity does not guarantee the outcome). So it should be just taken for granted that I'm not compatible with shoujo heroines from middle school or younger. This is the latter case with above average characters and humor, but still it's just the higher scale of my indifference. Mint and Sailor moon have set a trend for magical girls to have some pets, so there is one here as well. I also liked focus on school, gives a lot more substance than other magical girls settings.Overall Rating: 6/103.Kaze no Naka no Shoujo: Kinpatsu no Jeanie風の中の少女金髪のジェニー [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/52)Tags:HistoricalDramaThe story begins in a small town, Pennsylvania in 1838. Jeanie MacDowell is a cheerful and beautiful girl with light brown hair. Jeanie enjoys playing the piano and loves taking piano lessons from her mother.Steven, a good harmonica player, and Bill, a black boy who is very good at playing the banjo, are great friends of Jeanie's. They enjoy playing music together like a small band.However, Jeanie's happy life changes dramatically after her mother suddenly passes away.Experiencing many difficulties and learning the importance of life, she decides to devote her life to helping many people suffering from illness.This series is a highly emotional love story about the relationship between young Stephen Foster, who later becomes a famous composer and author of children's songs, and young Jeanie MacDowell, who becomes Stephen Foster's wife.It's not world masterpiece series. But it totally feels like one as setting is 19th century USA. A loot of 19th Century USA works look similar as it's always mostly about racial disparity and SOL of some well-off family. Feels like a total bore to me if you aren't prepared for this kind of show beforehand and don't look for such initially.Overall Rating: 5/104.Mikan Enikkiみかん絵日記 [Nippon Animation] (Finished 30/30)Tags:ShoujoPetsComedy, Romance, Slice of LifeA kitten, abandoned and left for dead along with his siblings, is taken in by Tomu Kusanagi, who nurtures him and discovers that the tangerine cat he so adores is actually a genius who can talk, walk, read, and has even acquired a taste for liquor!It's cheating to use Maruko-chan voice in other anime! Also same two stories per episode structure is used. Loving the voice even though it fits here less as cat talks a lot of serious and difficult stuff without showing emotions much. Cat talks and everyone in the family knows that , so cat actually substitutes role of imouto and thus is similar to that of Maruko-chan. Most stories are rather lyrical than humorous, so overall anime feels like lyrical Maruko-chan movie and deserves the same minor masterpiece score.Overall Rating: 7/105.Tsuyoshi Shikkari Shinasaiツヨシしっかりしなさい [Studio Comet] (Finished 5/112)Tags:ShounenSchoolComedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of LifeTsuyoshi Ikawa lives at home with his popular and beautiful sisters. Despite their qualities, his sisters and his mother are horrible at household chores, including cooking, so all these duties are taken over by Tsuyoshi while his father is away due to being temporarily transferred to another city for work.There are only nine episodes subbed. Basically, it's a culinary show as it always starts with buying some product and the story whirls around this product. It does not impress, to say the least.Overall Rating: 5/106.Shin CalimeroCalimero (1992)新カリメロ [Toei Animation] (Finished 0/52)Tags:ComedyThe series tells about many adventures of the small fledgling Calimero and his friends, who uncover many secrets, sometimes getting into trouble along the way.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/107.Flanders no Inu, Boku no PatrascheA Dog of Flanders: My Patrasche フランダースの犬　～ぼくのパトラッシュ～[TMS Entertainment] (Finished 3/26)Tags:Historical, PetsDramaA boy named Nello becomes an orphan at the age of two when his mother dies. His grandfather, who lives in a small village takes him in. One day, Nello finds a dog who was almost beaten to death and named him Patrasche. Due to the good care of his grandfather, the dog recovers, and from then on, Nello and Patrasche are inseparable. Since they are very poor, Nello has to help his grandfather by selling milk. Patrasche helps him pull the milk cart that Nello uses to sell milk in the town.I wish they shot a movie instead... the beginning is slow, so it's pretty much the same piece of story that I watched in original from 1975. Visuals and designs are almost the same, so I don't see much sense in another series, just twice shorter. It felt childish back then, and now also sees dated in 1992.Overall Rating: 5/108.Oyayubi Hime MonogatariThumbelina: A Magical Storyおやゆび姫物語 [Enoki Films] (Finished 1/26)Tags:ShoujoAdventure, FantasyA bratty girl named Mia is given a book, Thumbelina, which upon reading she is shrunk and transported into the world of the book. She embarks on a journey to return home, and to normal size making friends and learning lessons on the way, but that's only the beginning of her adventures.Just one episode is translated, plus there is some dubbed movie that's compiled totally for kids. Episode is just a bit less childish, but after some great examples of proper kids works like Blue Blink I just can't treat others seriously.Overall Rating: 5/109.Boukensha: The Man Was from SpainChristopher Columbus冒険者－THE MAN WAS FROM SPAIN－ [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/26)Tags:HistoricalAdventureChristopher Columbus is a man of strong will. His life is full of drama.Born in Genoa, he realizes his dream of becoming a sailor, dares to search for a new route, and finally reaches his goal, discovering a new land in the process.Sometimes in desperation, sometimes in excitement, his experiences are truly extraordinary.It has very little to do with the real story, and even as fantasy for children it's mediocre, so not recommended.Overall Rating: 4/1010.Nangoku Shounen Papuwa-kun南国少年パプワくん [Nippon Animation] (Finished 1/42)Tags:ShounenAdventure, ComedyPapuwa-kun is a young boy living a quiet life with his dog, Chappy, on a small island located somewhere in South Pacific, when Shintaro, who is being pursued by gangsters, invades their happy existence.Chappi takes Shintaro's precious Jewel, thereby making the two main characters lifelong rivals. Together they experience a series of bizarre adventures and situations.Not translated. Overall feels like Dragon Ball, but with more absurd humor.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Super Zuganスーパーヅガン [Studio Deen] (Finished 3/21)Tags:ShounenStrategy GameComedyA story about mahjong.Why I'm even watching this if I understand nothing in mahjong... Unlike Mahjong Hishouden: Naki no Ryuu there's nothing but mahjong here, so exactly zero value for unaware people like me.Overall Rating: 4/1012.Space Oz no BoukenThe Wonderful Galaxy of Ozスペース・オズの冒険 [E&G Films] (Finished 0/26)Tags:Adventure, Sci-FiIn the year 2060, eight year old Dorothy and her dog are mysteriously swept off their planet into the wonderful, magical Galaxy of Oz. An evil witch, Gloomhilda, once ruled the Galaxy through fear and terror but was driven out by the good Dr. Oz. Now, Gloomhilda has amassed an army on the outskirts of the Galaxy and is preparing to win back her empire.Her sneak attack fails due to Dorothy's unexpected arrival. However, Dr. Oz knows Gloomhilda will return. He has a plan which will free the Galaxy of the wickedness of Gloomhilda forever. Legend tells of three magical crystals, the Crystal of Love, the Crystal of Wisdom, and the Crystal of Courage. These crystals were spread throughout the Galaxy and lost hundreds of years ago. According to the legend, whoever possesses all three crystals will rule the Galaxy of Oz for all Eternity. Under the guidance of Dr. Oz, Dorothy and an assortment of "heroes" set out to scour the Galaxy in search of the three magical crystals.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1013.Shounen Ashibe 2少年アシベ２ [Life Work] (Finished 3/25)Tags:ComedySequel to Shounen AshibeNot translated. Since prequel is not found, let's sample at least this sequel before modern remakes. Each episode contains three stories just as Crayon Shin-Chan. So can we expect same density of humor? Absolutely not. The seal does not talk and behaves as a pet with basic childish emotions. There's hardly any humor at all, just some SOL stories around this seal.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Tokyo Babylon東京ＢＡＢＹＬＯＮ [Madhouse] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Action, Mystery, SupernaturalSubaru Sumeragi is the 13th head of the Sumeragi Clan and a most powerful onmyouji. Subaru is hired to exorcise a construction site, but his employer mysteriously died. The only suspect is a man who repeatedly walks away from situations in which he should have died. Then Subaru meets a young woman intent upon cursing the man, saying that he killed her brother. Subaru must figure out how his employer died and fight the evil spirits that are protecting the man with the help of his friend and twin sister, Seishirou Sakurazuka and Hokuto Sumeragi.I'd actually call it a horror as there are corpses and violence everywhere. Seeing torn out limbs and attacks with blood flows from the spots of former limbs makes me sick, personally. I'm allergic to visually disgusting effects like that. It's not even a detective story as there are just crimes till spontaneously killer does not show up in the open. Why would someone want to watch it is beyond my understanding.Overall Rating: 4/1015.Bannou Bunka Neko-MusumeAll Purpose Cultural Cat Girl Nuku Nuku万能文化猫娘 [Studio Fantasia, animate Film] (Finished 6/6)Tags:SeinenMechaAdventure, Comedy, Sci-FiRyuunosuke Natsume is the son of genius inventor Kyusaku Natsume and overbearing Akiko Natsume, CEO of Mishima Heavy Industries. Using funds from his wife's company and the brain from his son's beloved cat, Kyusaku creates a revolutionary android called Atsuko "Nuku Nuku" Natsume. To Kyusaku's disgust, Akiko wants to use her husband's technology to create weaponized robots for her company's customers, resulting in Ryuunosuke getting caught within the explosive fights between his parentsThe android Nuku Nuku tries to live as a normal high school student, adopting the role of Ryuunosuke's elder sister, but usually ends up acting as her family's protector. Nuku Nuku will do anything to protect the ones she loves.When facing a new anime I often try to find the similar anime that I've seen before and then compare which one I liked more. Could not find a really close one, but goofy energy reminds A-Ko to me. It's same painful to watch for me, because there's no coherent plot. Just something crazy happens and android girl deals with it in a half-assed way with the rest of the time being taken by something else. Without real plot or super good humor I can't rate it better than A-Ko, thus average.Overall Rating: 5/1016.Green Legend Ranグリーンレジェンド乱 [AIC] (Finished 3/3)Tags:Adventure, Drama, Sci-FiA story of future Earth - A warning for mankind: In the future, our planet will be transformed into a strange new world where human life struggles on an Earth without rain or oceans - only vast, parched deserts.Two youths fight for survival on our hostile planet and find hope. The sea, the sky and the land had been completely polluted by mankind when mysterious objects fall from the heavens. These titanic vessels smash into the planet and suck up the air, water, and most living creatures into their womb, stealing away the very essence of Earth`s nature.The few remaining inhabitants struggle for survival against a hostile environment and an oppressive ruling race known as the Rodo. One young, hot-blooded human named Ran, fights against the Rodo and a world in which rain is only a legend. He strives to join an Anti-Rodo group known as the Hazzard, not only to defeat the Rodo, but also to hunt down the man who killed his mother.A poorly executed story, and it manages to get even worse by the end. Dialogue "-This person killed my mother! -But your mother would be sad if you killed him in return" should be added to the golden collection of most stupid phrases in anime.Overall Rating: 4/1017.Ys: Tenkuu no Shinden - Adol Christine no BoukenYs II: Castle in the Heavens Ys (イース) 天空の神殿アドル=クリスティンの冒険[Tokyo Kids] (Finished 4/4)Tags:MythologyAdventure, Drama, FantasyNow that Adol Christen has saved the land of Esteria from the evil priest Dark Fact, Adol and the two priestesses travel to the floating land of Ys, where evil has an even greater influence on the people and no one has hope. The future of Ys falls to Adol, heir to the powers of the priests and the only one who can show the people of Ys the truth about their world. But, as Adol's power grows, he may be the one who will save Ys—or destroy it.After so many games I can't take Ys story seriously, it's just a shell for different kind of action and meeting many bosses. Of course hero will save someone from something, who cares.Overall Rating: 5/1018.Jigen Sengokushi: Kuro no Shishi - Jinnai-henBlack Lion時元戦国史黒の獅士陣内篇 [Tokyo Kids, Minami Machi Bugyousho] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenHistoricalAction, Adventure, Sci-FiThe year is 1580. Using an army of soldiers equipped with sophisticated weaponry, Nobunaga Oda is on the verge of ruling Japan with an iron fist. One of his enforcers is Ginnai Doma - a fallen samurai reborn into an indestructible killing machine. As Ginnai continues his killing spree on ninjas and those who oppose Nobunaga's rule, Shishimaru of the Iga Ninja - going against the Koga Ninja's plans - pursues a one-man vendetta to avenge the deaths of his comrades and kill the immortal warrior.Another imitation of terminator , this time vs ninja. Just action, nothing more.Overall Rating: 4/1019.Down Load: Namu Amida Butsu wa Ai no UtaDownload: Devil's CircuitDOWN LOAD 南無阿弥陀仏は愛の詩 [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:PsychologicalAction, Adventure, Sci-FiAn exciting cyberpunk romp directed by Rintaro with veteran animator Kanada Yoshinori about a genius hacker and a gang of hot-rodders.Some technology, girl and lots of bike pursuits. It's of average quality and absolutely not memorable.Overall Rating: 5/1020.Future GPX Cyber Formula 11新世紀ＧＰＸサイバーフォーミュラ１１ [Sunrise] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenRacingDrama, Sci-FiIt is now time for the 11th Cyber Formula World Grand Prix. With all the expectations and pressures placed upon him, Hayato Kazami struggles to regain the championship form that he had a year ago. Moreover, Osamu Sugo, aka Knight Schumacher, has reentered the competition, and declared Hayato to be an enemy. Hayato, with the new Super Asurada AKF-11, must now defeat someone he once deeply trusted in order to secure his second championship.For those who liked original, surely! Not for me then. Kinda expected to see mature winners already after the end of the series, but of course we go looser to winner route again.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Gensou Jotan EllciaEllcia幻想叙譚エルシア [J.C.Staff] (Finished 4/4)Tags:Adventure, FantasyThe Sacred Book of the land of Eija has been rediscovered and with it the legends of a mysterious and all powerful ship. Now Princess Crystal of Megaronia has set forth on a quest to recover the ship and its ultimate weaponry. All that stands between her and total domination of the world is a small group of piratical misfits. Swords, sorcery and technology blend to form a mesmerizing tale of Good vs. Evil in Ellcia.I'm so in love with this anime style, building, items and visuals. And I absolutely HATE all character designs, why every single character is soo ugly, dammit. I can hardly concentrate on the story constantly trying to find someone with at least neutral outlook that would not disgust right away. Found only side-heroine Sara who is far from beauty, but at least does not strike the eye like mad, also bearded guys have so big beards that they don't need to look fabulous. Phew, with that settled, what's with the story. It's mostly about travelling on ships with princes and princesses. Ships are both naval and occasionally flying ones. All the real action is packed in just the last episode. That said, can't call it even a decent one.Overall Rating: 5/1022.New Dream Hunter Rem: Setsuriku no MudenmekyuNEW DREAM HUNTER 麗夢殺戮の夢幻迷宮 [Studio Zain] (Finished 1/1)Tags:EcchiRem is an ordinary woman in our world but, in the world of dreams, she becomes a dream warrior, defending humanity from the evils there. When dream demons reach the waking world, she fights them with the help of her pets which transform into a tiger and wolf.Oh, come on, torn clothes is distinguishing feature of the series, but it again was not present. Was nice to know Frankenstein anime incorporated here partially, but overall the usual expected pattern.Overall Rating: 5/1023.Dragon Slayer Eiyuu Densetsu: Ouji no Tabidachiドラゴンスレイヤー英雄伝説王子の旅立ち [Nihon Falcom] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Action, FantasyFaaren is a peaceful and happy realm, ruled by a wise King... until the Demon Lord Ackdam overruns the kingdom with his black legions and terrifying dragon, killing the King and capturing the Queen. But the King's young son, Sirius, is swept away to safety and grows to be a powerful young warrior, tutored in the ways of swordsmanship and chivalry by his father's loyal minion, Rias.A surprisingly decent oldschool fantasy (if subbed version is watched). Almost every scene with Sonya had good type of humor in it. But it's just 40 minutes, so can't really aim higher.Overall Rating: 6/1024.Neko Hiki no Oruoraneねこひきのオルオラネ [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:MusicFantasyDuring the holiday season, a young man encounters a drunken cat belonging to an old man in an alley. The old man has trained his three cats to sing.Whaa? 30 minutes on cats learning to sing? Whaa?.Overall Rating: 5/1025.Scramble Wars: Tsuppashire! Genom Trophy Rallyスクランブル・ウォーズ　突っ走る！ゲノムトロフィーラリー [Artmic] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Parody, RacingComedyTake the characters from a number of sci-fi based animes, a stage not unlike "Wacky Races," super deformed madness, and general insanity and what you get is Scramble Wars. While Scramble Wars does include characters from the original Bubblegum Crisis, Gall Force and Genesis Survivor Gaiarth, it also has a few other characters from other animes such as AD Police and Riding Bean. It doesn't matter if you loved or hated any of these series, as long as you've seen at least one of them you'll have a great time watching this, though the insanity is so generic that it really doesn't matter if you haven't seen any of the animes featured in Scramble Wars.Wacky Races! No not really, but close enough. Genom is holding a race; the winner will receive the Genom Trophy! Woohoo! Yay! Enter, Priss on her Motoroid, Linna and Nene, Sylia and Mackie, a Boomer... A Boomer?... okay... and characters from other animes already mentioned a million times. All will be racing against each other to win this prestigious trophy for some reason. And all of them will do anything to win it...Very weird chibi crossover about racing. It's just 25 minutes and only bright spot is humor that's hit and miss.Overall Rating: 5/1026.Wolf Guyウルフガイ [J.C.Staff] (Finished 6/6)Tags:MilitaryAction, Sci-FiAkira lnugami is infected with a terrible poison. The only known antidote has an unfortunate side effect-it turns him into a werewolf. He opts for survival but then has to cope with his new desires and with the attention of the military, which is interested in using his affliction for its own purposes.Manga original comes from the far 1970, and that old source usually causes many problems. In this particular case it's bland characters, filler scenes and sexist approach. Basically, protagonist tries to defend other werewolves and wolves and is usually has some group hunting for all those. And he tends to lose his companion girls all the time, so it resembles trashy H-filled (this one is Ecchi too) series of the past, namely Wounded Man and Crying Freeman.Overall Rating: 4/1027.Eien no Filena永遠のフィレーナ [Pierrot] (Finished 6/6)Tags:Adventure, Drama, FantasyThe story is centered around Filena, a princess who was raised as a boy after her kingdom was conqueredMy main grudge is that development is very slow. Filena is forced to participate in gladiator fights (even though there is high tech weapons) or something very similar, and she gets relatively good at fighting with tutor's help. Eventually her conflict with occupant forces arises and she manages to flee. That with a bit of side-tracking takes all first five episodes with only last episode left to put some kind of finale which with this pace can't be anything big. Overall, not bad, but boring and nothing memorable.Overall Rating: 5/1028.D-1 DevastatorD-1 デバステイター [Takara] (Finished 2/2)Tags:MechaSci-FiTo follow in his missing friend Masato's footsteps, Ryo joined the vehicle company Yaesu. Ryo became involved with the Makuhari test course that Masato was also a part of. The leader, Gray Gear, told Ryo, "If you want to know about Masato, come to the test course late at night and ride the new machine."When Ryo got in the new machine, the Vector Versus, and rode it around the course, he was able to exceed 300 kilometers per hour and suddenly warped into a mysterious space!Only first episode is translated. It's mostly about flying mecha fighting, but there are just no good elements that I'd want to praise. I'll try - I like character designs and buildings are nice. What irritates the most is eternal zoom on each character with next to zero perspective, so it feels like battle of giant heads with occasional insertion of action shots. Horrible execution does not leave this anime a chance.Overall Rating: 4/1029.Hayou no Tsurugi: Shikkoku no Mashou破妖の剣漆黒の魔性 [Magic Bus] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoFantasy, SupernaturalA resident of the Floating Castle that battle demon beings, the girl Rasutel (Rasu), chosen by the willful lady, the Demon-Breaker sword, is sent on a quest to save a princess kidnapped by a Youki. Her quest is helped by a mysterious Youki called Anshu (but he has basic color that usual Youkis do not have.... hehe!). She is also hampered in her quest by her demon-being oriented younger brother who seeks her golden eyes, the heritage of their father, the Golden Youshu.Another weird anime. Demon girl decides to become human and faces other demons with an anti-demon sword with own consciousness. She has a demon guardian and among enemies are her close relatives. Everyone but heroine is a bishounen. There's just couple absolutely minor beasts and the main confrontation even that is prolonged by flashbacks. It's nice to see a serious fighting shoujo heroine, but it's too short and unmemorable.Overall Rating: 5/1030.Shin Choubakumatsu Shounen Seiki Takamaru新・超幕末少年世紀タカマル [J.C.Staff] (Finished 6/6)Tags:Action, Comedy, Fantasy-Not translated. Absurd funny continuation of the original series. It's a decent original Dragon Ball rival, so translation would be most welcome as without it half of gags remain unclear.Overall Rating: 6/1031.Nanbo no Monjai! Yankee Gurentaiなんぼのもんじゃい! ヤンキー愚連隊 [KSS] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, ComedyA youthful motorcycle gang in Osaka has their fair share of turf wars, lewd women, and full throttles as they go about their "too school for school" attitude with misconceptions and gags galore!Not translated. Just a usual yakuza/biker ecchi that we saw like five times already, but these anime usually remain untranslated. There is more humor (but mostly cartoonish and vulgar) than violence here, but it's absolutely bland with even no memorable characters at all. Needless to say, I'll be skipping its sequels.Overall Rating: 4/1032.Columbus no Daiboukenコロンブスの大冒険 [SPO Entertainment] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, DramaAs he nears the New World, Christopher Columbus tells cabin boy Paco about his youthful hardships, the difficulties of convincing others of his vision, and the final victory when King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella agreed to sponsor his trip. The sailors are doubtful, though Columbus is vindicated when they arrive on land, but it's not as the planned destination of Japan.The series Christopher Columbus THE MAN WAS FROM SPAIN started just this very season, and here is an OVA already... I did not understand the meaning of fantasy about real people and real events in the series, it has not changed since then. Needless fantasy for kids.Overall Rating: 4/1033.Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu Gaiden: Ougon no TsubasaLegend of the Galactic Heroes: Golden Wings銀河英雄伝説外伝　黄金の翼 [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adult Cast, Military, SpaceAction, Drama, Sci-FiThe Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance have been locked in a seemingly endless war for more than a century and a half. In the Empire, a young Siegfried Kircheis meets Reinhard von Müsel and his older sister Annerose. Kircheis enjoys a happy friendship with the two beautiful blonde-haired siblings until the day that their alcoholic father, a lesser nobleman with low standing, accepts a request for Annerose to be sold as a concubine to the Kaiser. Although enraged, Reinhard is powerless to stop the whims of the Imperial Court. He and his father soon move away, leaving Kircheis behind.A few years later, Reinhard returns in a military uniform and declares his intent to rise through the ranks and free his sister from sexual servitude. Kircheis joins Reinhard on this daring journey to save Annerose, yearning to forever stay by the side of his friends.I usually hate prequels, because they feel like fanservice material. This one is pretty much the same, felt rather disgusting and needless to me.Overall Rating: 4/1034.Apfelland MonogatariAppleland Storyアップフェルラント物語 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, DramaApfelland is a small but beautiful country surrounded by Russia, Austria, and Germany. Vel is a boy who lives in the capital, Charlottenburg. He happens to help a girl Frid. She was kidnapped because radium mine was found in her grandfather's abandoned mine. Aiming at the radium mine, various people gather there, for example, an American who wants to make money, a Polish woman disguised like a man who wants to earn money for the revolution, and the ministry of Apfelland who plots to affiliate with Germany. Vel and Frida are involved in their plots, and they know the secret of the mine.I remember watching it before and liking it substantially. It's a nice small adventure in alternative history. Quite good in the moment, but after some time you'll hardly remember it, I barely managed after 5+ years.Overall Rating: 6/1035.Chibi Maruko-chan: Watashi no Suki na Utaちびまる子ちゃんわたしの好きな歌 [Nippon Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoMusic, Visual ArtsDrama, Romance, Slice of LifeSakura Momoko's teacher assigns the third grade to draw an image based on their favorite song to enter a contest. Momoko loves a song she recently learned during her music class and is anxious to make a good drawing based on it. On her way to meet her relatives in Shizuoka, she meets Shouko Kimura, a university student who occasionally draws portraits at the local train station and plans to also participate in an art contest. Fascinated by her illustrations, Sakura meets Kimura once again. Shouko is enchanted by Momoko's sympathy and honesty. They quickly become friends and end up inspiring each other in their own way.This movie is even more lyrical than the last one. There are still a few nice jokes. On the bad side, narrator irony comments are gone in this movie. On the bright side, a lot of really nice songs with crazy video row. In the end it's around the same level as last Maruko-chan movie.Overall Rating: 7/1036.Oishinbo: Kyuukyoku tai Shikou, Chouju Ryouri Taiketsu!!美味しんぼ　究極対至高　長寿料理対決!! [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenComedy, Gourmet, Slice of LifeUltimate Menu and Supreme Menu square off in a cooking battle about dishes that promote longevity. For Supreme's Kaibara Yuzan and Ultimate's Yamaoka Shirou (who are father and son), this confrontation is more than strictly business: it's personal.It's nice to see Oishinbo in good quality. As it could be expected from longevity theme, it would be all about super exotic Chinese dishes that no one ever heard about. And there's hardly anything besides that, was a bore.Overall Rating: 5/1037.Shou-chan Sora wo TobuSho is Flying in the Sky翔ちゃん空をとぶ [-] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Horror, Sci-FiAn anime version of Ikkei Makina's horror novel of the same name. It aired at the same time as the live-action adaptation.Not translated. I bet it has much more meaning if watched in conjunction with live-action adaptation. Because anime is just battle of two genius kindergarten superpower kids. Just pointless.Overall Rating: 5/1038.Fatal Fury: Legend of the Hungry Wolfバトルファイターズ餓狼伝説 [Studio Comet] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMartial ArtsAction, Adventure, Drama, RomanceJeff Bogard was a master of the Hakkyokuseiken martial arts school and the guardian of its secret techniques. Coveting this knowledge, Geese Howard, the most powerful man in South Town, challenged and murdered him in front of his adoptive sons Terry and Andy Bogard. Under the guidance of their mentor Tung Fe Rue, the brothers dedicate their lives to training in the ultimate art to avenge their father.10 years later, Geese promotes a martial arts tournament known as the King of Fighters. Terry and Andy join their friend Muay Thai champion Joe Higashi and enter the competition in order to finally face Geese in combat.Anime is based on old fighting game, so for those unfamiliar with the game it would be a boring poorly staged cheating-filled fighting tournament with some prologue.Overall Rating: 5/1039.Youkai Ningen Bem: Part II妖怪人間ベムパートII [Topcraft] (Finished 0/2)Tags:MythologyHorrorFor 1982 a 26-episode TV series sequel to Youkai Ningen Bem was planned. Because the original producers disbanded, the animation was done by Topcraft. 2 episodes were created and the project shut down without airing on television. The episodes were released to the public on a LD-Box Set a decade later. 2,000 units were printed and all were sold out.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1040.Crayon Shin-chan Specialsクレヨンしんちゃん Specials [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 3/87)Tags:SeinenSchoolComedy, Ecchi87 Crayon Shin-chan TV Specials exist as of August 6, 2022.Not translated. Specials are usually themed around certain dates and may have specific jokes and unusual, even unrealistic stage. It makes them of lesser priority than movies and tv series, and considered the huge numbers of those I doubt specials will ever get translated. They're also harder to find with .Overall Rating: 6/10

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Anime of the Year 1992-III Summer - Kurenai no Buta

By kivandopulus, September 25, 2022

VN of the Year

I failed to find something really good in Summer 1992 season,Kurenai no Butais the best title among the decent ones, but I still don't consider it a masterpiece.1.YadamonYadamon: Magical Dreamer ヤダモン[Group TAC] (Finished 3/170)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, FantasyAfter causing havoc in the Witch Forest, the queen, Yadamon's mother, banishes her to human world. She does this not only to teach Yadamon a lesson, but also because she has a secret passion for human magazines and books. While at the human world, the queen keeps a close watch at Yadamon which becomes a problem cause she falls asleep almost anywhere.The human world has gone extremely hi-tech. Also, a lot of animals has become extinct. Yadamon finds herself in the island named ''Creature Island'', where genetically re-created species are being made. In the island she meets Jean and his parents Edward and Maria.Yadamon meets many misadventures in the human world due to her curiosity which causes a lot of trouble to the humans and her guardian fairy, Timon, who has the ability to stop time.As Yadamon learns to adapt to human world and use her powers, a new threat is brewing. Kira, the evil witch who was sealed inside a volcano by the queen and the great witch Beril, has escaped. She is out for revenge and has set her eyes to the humans and Yadamon.Only some 15 episodes are translated. I usually block series with 10 minute episodes, but it's the only new non-kid series of the season for the second Summer in a row, lol, so let it be an exception. It's actually 10 minutes with opening and ending... and only some 7 minutes without. The development is slow with much talking, so there's only enough time for some small event, and it always ends with a cliff hanger which can hardly be called so as in fact it's just beginning of a new scene that's abrupted by credits. And the only running joke is girl constantly answering yada-yadamon, or "don't need" at everything... I don't know who it is for as it's a magical girl with normal comedy development, but not simple enough to be branded as for kids. With length like that and episodic nature I'd actually not recommend it to anyone.Overall Rating: 4/102.Tenchi Muyou! RyououkiTenchi Muyo! Ryo-Ohki天地無用！魎皇鬼 [AIC] (Finished 7/7)Tags:ShounenSpaceAction, Comedy, Sci-FiSeventeen-year-old Tenchi Masaki grew up hearing stories about how his ancestor used a sword to seal a demon inside a cave seven hundred years ago. When curiosity gets the better of him, Tenchi goes to the cave and stumbles across the sword from the legend. Thinking that the story is nothing more than a fairy tale, he removes the blade and inadvertently releases the demon, who turns out to be a space pirate named Ryouko Hakubi. Furious about being trapped for so long, she attacks Tenchi, but he is able to repel her with the sword, awakening his inner power. After seeing this, Ryouko takes an interest in her unlikely savior and decides to crash at his place.As if it were a chain reaction, more alien women—Aeka Jurai Masaki, an uptight princess from the planet Jurai; Sasami, Aeka's sweet younger sister; Mihoshi Kuramitsu, a ditzy Galactic Police Officer; and Washuu Hakubi, a wisecracking genius—gradually come in contact with Tenchi and begin living with him. Through his encounters with these five women, Tenchi begins to learn more about his ancestry, newfound power, and the looming threat lurking beyond the skies.I never was fan of older romcom. I remember one smaller harem title back in the past before 1992, but Tenchi seems to be the first full-scale harem series which is a huge improvement over constant hit-and run concept of Urusei Yatsura. For me Tenchi lacks substance and normal humor. There is fanservice humor and some random guys from other planets as enemies. This is a very old approach - make a setting and keep using it for 150 episodes by inserting any small stories as desired. Without real story or some outstanding humor this franchise is doomed from the start and can only be remembered with nostalgy as the first notable harem.Overall Rating: 6/103.Bastard!! Ankoku no HakaishinBastard!! バスタード!! 暗黒の破壊神[AIC] (Finished 6/6)Tags:SeinenAction, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, EcchiThe kingdom of Metallicana is under attack from the Four Lords of Havoc. This party of villains—ninja master Gara, deadly thunder empress Nei Arshes, cold and calculating Kall-Su, and enigmatic dark priest Abigail—will stop at nothing to get what they want, even if it leaves utter destruction in their wake.High Priest Geo is desperate to help save the kingdom and its people. He unleashes the mighty wizard Dark Schneider, a man who used to be an ally of the villains. Unfortunately, Dark Schneider has his own plans in mind. Will he stop the Four Lords of Havoc or join them in their conquest of the world?Fantasy setting and mature enough characters with MD Geist-like power-hungry protagonist are a big plus, but all this innocent to brutal to innocent transformation with a kiss is basically the same as eye-patch for the third eye in Mitsume ga Tooru. Moreover, at first episode protagonists are attacked by some general apprentice and we're told that there are four enemy generals to face. So from the very start we already roughly know the concept - there will be one general per episode with the main baddie in the last episode, and that makes all 6 episodes which is a very short-time strategy. In reality things are shuffled a bit, but the gist remains. Episodes 4-5 lose humor and becomes rather sour. Setting had enough sauce for a masterpiece, maybe remake version that's already out can execute things better.Overall Rating: 6/104.Giant Robo the Animation: Chikyuu ga Seishi Suru HiGiant Robo the Animation: The Day the Earth Stood Stillジャイアントロボ THE ANIMATION 地球が静止する日 [Phoenix Entertainment] (Finished 7/7)Tags:ShounenMecha, Super PowerAction, Drama, Sci-FiIn a future to come humanity enjoys a new age of prosperity thanks to Dr. Shizuma's invention of a revolutionary renewable energy source: the Shizuma Drive. But this peace is threatened by Big Fire, a cabal seeking world domination. Against Big Fire the International Police Organisation dispatches a collection of superpowered warriors and martial artists, together with Daisaku Kusama, inheritor and master of Earth's most powerful robot, Giant Robo.By capturing an abnormal Shizuma Drive which is essential to Big Fire's plans the IPO ignites a desperate conflict between the two groups. The coming battle will test Daisaku's resolve to the utmost, reveal the ghastly truth behind the creation of the Shizuma Drive, and bring human civilization to its knees!Giant Robo is a character-driven adventure in a retro-futuristic setting, drawing on influences from opera, kung-fu cinema, wuxia stories and classic mecha anime. It incorporates characters from the works of the manga author Mitsuteru Yokoyama but it is designed to be a stand-alone story.Another adaptation of mecha manga from 1960s. Felt pretty old and uninteresting to me. Also there are a lot of childish moves, No memorable characters or humor spotted. Basically, just battle of characters with superpowers. That's dead average in my set of coordinates.Overall Rating: 5/105.Ushio to ToraUshio and Toraうしおととら [Pastel] (Finished 10/10)Tags:Action, Comedy, HorrorUshio thinks his father's tale of an ancient ancestor impaling a demon on a temple altar stone with the legendary Beast Spear is nuts, but when he finds the monster in his own basement, Ushio has to take another look at the family legend! Fortunately, Ushio knows it's best to let sleeping dogs lie and leave captured demons where they are. Unfortunately, the release of the monster's evil energies begins to beckon other demons to Ushio's hometown! To save his friends and family from the invading spirits, Ushio is forced to release Tora from his captivity. But will the cure prove to be worse than the curse? Will Ushio end his life a Tora-snack? Or will the Beast Spear keep Tora in line long enough to save the city?I remember trying Ushio to Tora long ago, got impression of a bland anime that time. So this time need to finish it to finalize impression. And indeed development from the start is slow and setting becomes finalized only by the end of 6th episode. Anyway, again a generic shounen about fighting conveniently appearing evil spirits with the only interesting encounter being in the finale.Overall Rating: 5/106.Hanappe Bazooka花平バズーカ [Studio Signal] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SchoolAction, Comedy, EcchiLecherous high school boy Hanappe is visited by two demons who step from his TV and immediately fall in lust with his mother and sister. The demons turn Hanappe's home into a meeting ground for their demonic friends and grant Hanappe the power of the Hanappe Bazooka. Now his index finger is capable of both a deadly blast and the ability to drive women in a lustful frenzy, but Hanappe isn't very good at controlling it and winds up in serious trouble.Very shitty demon-themed ecchi with a real suicide and nothing left that I'd even want to remember. Stupid as hell.Overall Rating: 4/107.Hello Harinezumi: Satsui no RyoubunDomain of Murderハロー張りネズミ殺意の領分 [Studio Deen] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenPsychologicalDrama, MysteryOne stormy night, a young woman is shot to death on a cliff; her body is found floating in the waters below the next morning. She was last seen with a man who is now being sought not only for her death. Meanwhile, an estranged wife hires Goro, a private investigator, to find her husband. Alongside another member of law enforcement with his own motives for finding the man, Goro sets forth on a trail of tragedy and intrigue to find the reason and connection behind the murders and missing husband.All detectives look more or less the same for me, and this one is not exception. Of course, there's intrigue about murderer, but it's the same in all works of the genre as well.Overall Rating: 5/108.Iron Virgin Jun鉄の処女JUN [Dynamic Planning] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Martial Arts, Super PowerAction, Comedy, FantasyIn the Asuka family, nothing is more important than family tradition. For their lovely young daughter Jun, it means she must get married on her 18th birthday. Although poor little virgin Jun is not above kickin' butt, she just can't stand the thought of marrying someone she doesn't love. Her mother sends out a gang of bloodthirsty goons to drag her to the altar, but Jun would rather beat a hundred suitors into one big bloody mess than get married on her mother's terms, and she's about to prove it.Useless. Won't gain and won't lose anything by watching a couple of lads fighting and running away from rapists.Overall Rating: 3/109.Oira Sukebanおいら女蛮[スケバン] [Studio Signal] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Crossdressing, SchoolComedy, EcchiDoes being the only guy in an all girl school sound like paradise? It might be, if the girls knew you were a guy, but to stay in school teenage pervert Banji can't let can't let anyone find out his chromosomes don't match. Banji's status conscious parents want him to go to a good school, but not enough to spend the money on a good co-ed school. Now, in addition to studying math and science, Banji has to learn how to put on a bra and makeup. His life has become a living hell. Not only is he at the bottom of the social pecking order, he must also got to conceal his inner-masculinity from the pretty classmate girl who's stolen his heart while avoiding the female bullies who threaten to expose his less-than-feminine charms in the locker room.I'm not a fan of trap anime, and this one is the bare bones of the genre without anything on top of it.Overall Rating: 4/1010.OZオズ [Madhouse, Studio Fantasia] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoMilitaryAction, Drama, Sci-FiA nuclear war has killed most of humanity and split the USA into six warring states. By 2021, a legend has grown up about the fabled city of OZ where everything still works. Scientist Felicia sets out in search of it with the mercenary Muto and android 1019. At the end of the quest they only discover a military base and a madman.A mercenary was hired by a girl to bring her to the mythical Oz (a paradise) where her missing brother supposedly lived. Accompanying them was a cyborg sent by her brother. But Oz was not the paradise it seemed and her brother was not as sane as he was smart.It's difficult to make post-apocalypse feel boring, but Oz succeeds at that. Basically, there is only running and fighting with some occasional discussion is similar interiors resembling some base. There's not enough explanation or focus on characters with over a dozen of them. Camera is constantly shifting to different locations with different characters with zoomed scenes and no perspective. Anti-climatic ending where everything settles itself without protagonists also feels lackluster. Overall, it's just poor execution and bad experience.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Nozomi Witchesのぞみウィッチィズ[Group TAC] (Finished 3/3)Tags:Romance, SportsRyoutaro Shiba and his family have just moved into a new housing neighborhood. He soon discovers he is lucky enough to be living next to a beautiful and bewitching girl named Nozomi Egawa. Nozomi is athletic, an actress, and surprisingly more than anything else, she wants Ryoutaro to become a boxer so that he can fulfil her dream. Ryoutaro isn't exactly sure what Nozomi's dream is, but he definitely does not want to become a boxer. Unfortunately for Ryoutaro, he finds himself being dragged to the high school boxing club because Nozomi has written a resume for him claiming that he is a boxing genius! It actually seems that Ryoutaro has a special gift for boxing that he has never known about before. Ryoutaro soon finds himself in the winners' circle. But for how long can he last, and can he really live up to Nozomi's expectations?Viva progress. Characters in this sport romance anime look a bit different from all those five previous ones Nine-Touch-Slow Step etc etc. So for me it turns into a painful game whether each camera focus looks like before or differently. Basically, I've seen it all before already elsewhere, and there even was more spectacular boxing.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Chameleon (OVA)Bite me!カメレオン [Egg] (Finished 6/6)Tags:SeinenDelinquents, SchoolComedy, EcchiThe series follows the antics of tenth-grade student Eisaku Yazawa who wants to become a bousouzoku, a motorcycle gang member.It's all about trashy delinquent humor, so highly subjective. Other anime of the genre had strong protagonists and thus authenticity. This one is pure comedy as protagonist is super short and weak winning by twist of luck or with help of others. And for the same reason it does not reach even level of Karate-bu for me.Overall Rating: 6/1013.Princess Army: Wedding★CombatPrincess Army: Wedding CombatぷりんせすARMY - ウェディング★COMBAT - [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoMartial ArtsAction, RomanceThe story is about Aida Nonoka who is rescued from a drunken attacker by a judoist. She then resolves to become as good as her savior, hoping that one day to recognize him by the scar on his back. She then transferred into a new high school where she meets two older boys who could possibly the person to whom she owes her life and to give her heart.Bishounens compete over one girl. It's harmful as it still has weird sexist ideas from the 1980s.Overall Rating: 4/1014.Karasu Tengu Kabuto: Ougon no Me no Kemono鴉天狗カブト黄金の目のケモノ [KSS] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAction, Adventure, DramaKabuto is a tengu who has to save a princess from fortress which is full of monster-mecha hybrids in an alternate reality of feudal Japan.Series was really weird and hectic. This OVA manages to overthrow that impression to the worst. There's little logic in events, and spontaneous weird moves just keep viewers in awe as a sick fantasy.Overall Rating: 4/1015.Shin Dousei Jidai: Hawaiian Breeze新・同棲時代 HAWAIIAN BREEZE [Animaruya] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, RomanceIn this adaptation of a manga by Fumi Shibama, itself a retelling of a 1972 manga by Kazuo Kamimura (the original Age of Cohabitation whose existence is implied by the "new" in this title), Honda has been living with Eri for two years and debates whether or not he should ask her to marry him.Visuals are pretty bad. Contents is man's constant attempts to trick or persuade woman to make a child and her constant evasion or running away without words. Does it even look like an interesting setting? And in the very end we learn woman's reason - enjoy if you can.Overall Rating: 4/1016.Houkago no Tinker Bell放課後のティンカー・ベル [Ashi Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SchoolComedy, Drama, Mystery, Romance, Slice of LifeKenichi Akizuki and Misako Watanabe work together to solve the mysterious disappearance of their classmate Ryouko Miyazaki. The only clue left by the kidnapper is signed Koushin Okazaki, her late classmate who'd committed suicide to preserve his youth and become like Peter Pan.Pretty dumb story engulfed in mystery that two juvenile wanna be detectives or something uncover. Those who don't like detectives should not even bother.Overall Rating: 5/1017.Seikima II Humane Society: Jinrui Ai ni Michita Shakai聖飢魔II HUMANE SOCIETY ~人類愛に満ちた社会~ [Production I.G, animate Film] (Finished 1/1)Tags:MythologyAction, Fantasy, SupernaturalSeikima II was a real-life Japanese death-metal band. Full of kabuki makeup, songs about rape, murder, and satanic destruction, and a public persona of devilish evil. The OVA purports to tell the backstory of the band, which, according to its publicity, was composed of actual demons (akuma) from the parallel dimension Makai. In the OVA, five vicious demons (the five band members), led by Demon Kogure (the lead singer), are plotting the destruction of humanity. The only effective opposition comes from the saintly Rosa, who is actually the reformed war goddess Freyja in disguise. The demons attempt to activate their ultimate weapon, the Tower of Babel, before Rosa can complete her counter weapon, the Tower of Cain. The demons triumph and are on the verge on destroying the world when their leader suddenly decides that they should, instead, form a rock-and-roll band in order to convert people everywhere into demon worshipers.Anime about real life stuff usually is a bad choice since this stuff can only be portrayed as cool without any self-irony. There is demon invasion, but it does not go beyond tasteless coolness.Overall Rating: 5/1018.Mikeneko Holmes no Yuurei Joushu三毛猫ホームズの幽霊城主 [AIC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:PetsComedy, Drama, MysteryBased on Akagawa Jirou's popular book series about hapless detective Katayama Yoshitaro who lives with his sister Harumi and their cat Holmes, which has a sixth sense when it comes to solve mysteries.In this stand alone OVA the aftershow party of Harumi's acting troupe becomes the showplace of murder and tragedy. Luckily Yoshitaro brought Holmes along.I am sorry , cat detective Holmes is the kind of cringe I can't accept.Overall Rating: 4/1019.Star Dustスター・ダスト [Victor Entertainment] (Finished 0/1)Tags:SpaceSci-FiA misguided sci-fi tale of ecological police keeping space free from pollution in 2061.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1020.Don: Gokudou Suikodenドン極道水滸伝 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Organized CrimeDramaTakekichi and Masakazu are two tough guys who are forced to go underground when they lose their boss in a turf war in this modern update of the classic Chinese novel "Water Margin".A normal yakuza rising in power story with constant violence and deaths. Pure action, nothing special.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Kurenai no ButaPorco Rosso紅の豚 [Studio Ghibli] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Historical, MilitaryAction, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, RomanceAfter a curse turned him into a pig, World War I ace Marco Pagot becomes Porco Rosso, a mysterious bounty hunter who takes down sky pirates in the Adriatic Sea. He whiles away his days on a secluded island, rarely leaving other than to collect bounties or to visit the beautiful Gina, a songstress and owner of the Hotel Adriano.One day, while traveling to fix his faulty engine, Porco Rosso is gunned down by a young American hotshot named Donald Curtis. Thrilled at the possibility of fame, Donald boldly declares that the flying pig is dead. Not wanting to disappoint Gina, Porco Rosso flees to the famous Piccolo S.P.A. airplane company and takes out a massive loan in order to repair and improve his fighter plane. There, he is surprised to find that the chief engineer of Piccolo S.P.A. is the 17-year-old Fio Piccolo, who hungers for a chance to prove herself. With Fio's improvements, Porco Rosso prepares to challenge Donald officially and regain his honor.I watched it a long time ago, but nothing but selfish protagonist and planers left in memory. I watched it now, and again nothing really catches the eye. I don't like steampunk, so atmosphere does not excite in the least. Story is very mediocre as it's just couple plane challenges with a very weird reverse sleeping beauty sidetrack. Everyone seems to be head over heels just about the fact that protagonist is not a small girl. So what? Protagonist is special, but only for Ghibli as there are a lot of grumpy protagonists later on in anime and couple even more rude ones before that. Fascist Italy stage is original, but it has no real plot meaning due to only couple half-assed pursuits and opportunity to say "better pig that fascist", and probably the whole this movie is made like that just to say that phrase. There is cool directorship and humor feels amusing though not funny, but overall it's a disappointment.Overall Rating: 6/1022.Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: The Fading Light of ZeonMobile Suit Gundam 0083: The Afterglow Of Zeon機動戦士ガンダム0083 －ジオンの残光－ [Sunrise] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, SpaceAction, Adventure, Sci-FiU.C. 0083 - Three years after the end of the catastrophic One Year War, peace on Earth and the colonies is shattered by the presence of the Delaz Fleet, a rogue Zeon military group loyal to the ideals of the late dictator Gihren Zabi. Delaz Fleet`s ace pilot Anavel Gato, once hailed as "The Nightmare of Solomon", infiltrates the Federation`s Torrington base in Australia and steals the nuclear-armed Gundam GP02A "Physalis" prototype. Rookie pilot Kou Uraki - with the aid of Anaheim Electronics engineer Nina Purpleton and the crew of the carrier Albion - pilots the Gundam GP01 "Zephyranthes" prototype in an attempt to recover the stolen Gundam unit and prevent another war from breaking out.I hate this franchise with all heart and keep watching it just because it seems to be known. Since it's hastily merged compilation of the 0083 series, it's just horrible.Overall Rating: 2/1023.Kaze no TairikuThe Weathering Continent風の大陸 [Production I.G] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Fantasy, SupernaturalThree adventurers—a warrior, a priest, and a young woman—traverse a land devastated by centuries of environmental calamities searching only for a way to survive. In their journeys they stumble across first the remains of a band of desperate treasure-hunters, and then the treasure they were seeking: Azec Sistra, the legendary City of the Dead. Unfortunately, the bandits responsible for slaughtering the treasure-hunters have also found their way to the city, but more worrisome still are the guardians which protect Azec Sistra from those who would violate the spirits at rest there...We've discovered a new genre - simulator of walking. Seriously, heroes walk past stuff and sometimes unsheathe weapons just to put them back the next moment. Some stuff is more creepy, but they heroically walk past it anyway. Did you expect a battle or something as climax? There's nothing like that, they just arrive ... somewhere, lol. I'm not kidding, it's that senseless...Overall Rating: 4/1024.Silent Möbius 2サイレントメビウス2[AIC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenMythologyAdventure, Fantasy, Sci-FiThis sequel to the Silent Mobius The Movie 1 continues the timeline of the flashback section of the first movie (Katsumis initial contact with AMP), using some more ideas and persons from the Manga, and being slightly less incompatible to the Silent Mobius series from 1998.2/3 of the movie is just talks which is a disappointment after action-heavy first movie. By comparing alone, it can't be the same score.Overall Rating: 5/1025.Yawara!: Sore Yuke Koshinuke Kids!!YAWARA！それゆけ腰ぬけキッズ！！ [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Combat Sports, Martial ArtsComedy, Slice of LifeYawara helps a group of timid grade school kids overcome their fears and compete in a judo competition. One of the kids is Hanazono's cousin, which is how she meets them. Another is a girl who seems a whole lot like Yawara.It's my principle that I watch at least one movie after the series no matter how bad the series was. Series was very weak in my opinion, but movie is actually a lot better due to focus on many nice characters rather than one boring girl. I hate to admit that I also participated in one juvenile judo tournament at school, and it was same cringy as in this movie, lol, although in real life there are hardly any clean ippons at all. Overall, better than expected, but far from great still due to bigger focus on spokon training than on comedy itself.Overall Rating: 6/1026.Rokudenashi BluesろくでなしBLUES [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenCombat Sports, Delinquents, School Comedy, DramaMaeda is a new student in the Teiken High School. He stutters when he's nervous and he's rather clumsy. He gets noted immediately because he hits a teacher during the entrance ceremony. Some clubs search to enlist him as they see in him a force they can use to get even with other clubs. But Maeda is a loner and has only one dream: becoming a boxing champion.It's an average delinquents anime with lots of violence and only a shade of humor. 30 minute length means there's not enough time for anything else.Overall Rating: 5/1027.Senbon Matsubaraせんぼんまつばら[-] (Finished 0/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaAfter suffering severe floods in 1753, the people of Senbon Matsubara in Shizuoka cooperate on flood prevention around the Kiso, Nagara, and Yuhi rivers. The people of Satsuma (Kumamoto Prefecture) endure great hardships after being forced to undertake the work by the central government, a subtle indication of the bad feeling that would foment into open rebellion the following century.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1028.Zouressha ga Yatte Kita象列車がやってきた [Mushi Production] (Finished 0/1)Tags:AdventureAn educational film about the Elephant Trains in Japan. During WW2 many zoos were slaughtering their dangerous animals (such as elephants) as a safeguard against Allied bombings which might release the animals. After WW2, the only elephants that remained in Japan were two at Higashiyama Zoo in Nagoya. Special trains called Elephant Trains were arranged to bring children from all over the country to Higashiyama Zoo.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/10

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Anime of the Year 1992-II Spring - Crayon Shin-chan

By kivandopulus, September 22, 2022

Anime of the Year

Crayon Shin-chanis a firm masterpiece and unrivalled winner1.Bishoujo Senshi Sailor MoonSailor Moon美少女戦士セーラームーン [Toei Animation] (Finished 5/46)Tags:Mahou Shoujo, MythologyRomanceUsagi Tsukino is an average student and crybaby klutz who constantly scores low on her tests. Unexpectedly, her humdrum life is turned upside down when she saves a cat with a crescent moon on its head from danger. The cat, named Luna, later reveals that their meeting was not an accident: Usagi is destined to become Sailor Moon, a planetary guardian with the power to protect the Earth. Given a special brooch that allows her to transform, she must use her new powers to save the city from evil energy-stealing monsters sent by the malevolent Queen Beryl of the Dark Kingdom.But getting accustomed to her powers and fighting villains are not the only things she has to worry about. She must find the lost princess of the Moon Kingdom, the other Sailor Guardians, and the Legendary Silver Crystal in order to save the planet from destruction.I thought I would watch it all, but due to episodic nature of the show and only couple funny moments per episode stopping after fifth. Sailor Moon deserves a masterpiece score for combination of its strong sides and overall push for Shoujo that started to be taken seriously, but can't trick my guts, could not enjoy it.Overall Rating: 6/102.Crayon Shin-chanShin Chanクレヨンしんちゃん [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 79/?)Tags:SeinenSchoolComedy, EcchiThere is no such thing as an uneventful day in the life of kindergartener Shinnosuke "Shin-chan" Nohara. The five-year-old is a cut above the most troublesome, perverted, and shameless kid one can imagine. Shin-chan is almost always engaged in questionable activities such as forgetting about a friend during hide and seek, sumo wrestling for love, performing various gags including the notorious "elephant" in public, and flirting with college girls. The exemplary troublemaker has done it all and has no plans to stop anytime soon.Crayon Shin-chan follows the daily shenanigans of Shin-chan with his group of friends, parading around as the self-proclaimed "Kasukabe Defense Force." The adults witnessing these shenanigans unfold can't help but adore Shin-chan, as he keeps them entertained while unintentionally solving their daily troubles through his mindless antics—leaving himself as the only problem they do not know what to do with.The first gag comedy anime with three stories per episode, used to be maximum 2. Because of three stories a great density of jokes is achieved. Very light and easy to watch, guess it explains the fact that it's still running with over a thousand of episodes, and SOL funny situations are truly endless for the Japanese. I consider it a firm masterpiece that's not rated higher only because unlike Chibi Maruko-chan there's no intellectual enjoyment here, only mundane one with some jokes being vulgar and toilet humor , but sometimes it fits the mood perfectly.Overall Rating: 8/103.Ashita e Free Kickあしたへフリーキック[Production Reed] (Finished 1/52)Tags:Team SportsShun Godai is a young boy who likes soccer. But his grandfather, a successful businessman, want his grandson to follow his path...Again just one episode is translated. The obvious advantages are group of friends and older age of characters compared to rival anime. Can't say any characters look really interesting , but it's definitely the right direction to go, and with translation it might be a thing .Overall Rating: 6/104.Cooking Papaクッキングパパ [Eiken] (Finished 1/151)Tags:Comedy, GourmetThe story of Mr. Araiwa and his family. He is a model employee in a large enterprise, but becomes a completely different character at home. He is very keen on cooking and lets pass no occasion to cook delicious dishes for his wife, who is frequently occupied by her work as a journalist, or his young son.Only one episode is translated. Fifth culinary anime already, but if feels the most interesting one of them all due to normal family, comedy and also strong corporate spirit. Again, I don't favor culinary shows as genre, but I'd watch several of these with translation.Overall Rating: 6/105.Aa Harimanadaああ播磨灘 [E&G Films] (Finished 3/23)Tags:SeinenCombat Sports, Martial ArtsWhen Harimanada makes his grand entrance into the world of Sumo, he causes complete uproar throughout the entire arena. The novelty headmask is clearly not a good idea but not content with just ruffling the feathers of all the spectators, he sends the the entire Sumo Association into a frenzy when he arrogantly declares that he will surpass the legendary Futabayama's consecutive run of 69 victories. Should he fail to achieve such a feat, he will immediately retire all together.Harimanada's impudent remarks cause a huge backlash as every high-ranking Yokuzuna wants the chance to knock him down and humiliate him for showing such arrogance.Thus begins Harimanada's journey to the top as he battles to topple the entire Sumo hierarchy!Come on, what sportsman does not want to become the best, it's super plain plot with one of the least spectacular sports of sumo. There's even no humor. I fail to see a single reason to watch this.Overall Rating: 4/106.Genki Bakuhatsu GanbarugerEnergetic Bomb Ganbaruger元気爆発ガンバルガー [Sunrise] (Finished 3/47)Tags:ShounenMechaKoutarou's father is trying to train his son in the art of the ninja, but a mis-hit bomb accidently damages a shrine and releases a great demon that Eldoran had been keeping contained. Eldoran manages to contain him, but one of his servants manages to escape as well, and now attempts to free his master. To stop him, Eldoran grants the three mecha Gotiger, King Elephan, and Mach Eagle to Koutarou and his two friends, as well as suits that grant each of them a special power. Miracle Ninja Ganbare Team is born!Another alternative setting of something Sunrise'ish. Which means kids, bad humor and monster of the week pattern.Overall Rating: 5/107.Chou Dendou Robo Tetsujin 28-gou FX超電動ロボ鉄人28号FX [Tokyo Movie Shinsha] (Finished 1/47)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, Sci-FiBy 2030, Shotaro's son was in charge of Tetsujin-28. An Interpol agent like his father, he used the aged robot to combat the Pink Mafia and the Franken organization.One episode is translated. Gigantor was literally second TV series with 20-minute episode format and thus had very simple setting. No amount of improved visuals can fix that. Pretty horrible, as for me.Overall Rating: 5/108.Salad Juu Yuushi TomatomanTomatomanサラダ十勇士トマトマン [Gakken] (Finished 3/50)Tags:Adventure, ComedyTomato is one of the 10 knights of the salad kindom. Young and clumsy, yet always ends up saving the day and is admired by everyone even the pretty princess peach, who he desperately falls in love with. Every episode they embark on a new journey to solve a new mission. This would be easier if only the insect band didn't get in their way every time.Not translated. It's clear for me that it's a kid's work with all the fruit characters. The flow reminds time bokan series due to three similar looking villains.Overall Rating: 4/109.Nagagutsu wo Haita Neko no Bouken長靴をはいた猫の冒険 [Enoki Films] (Finished 0/26)Tags: Adventure, FantasyAnime adaptation of Charles Perrault fairy tale, directed by Susumu Ishizaki.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1010.Oi! RyoumaRainbow Samuraiお〜い!竜馬 [Animation 21] (Finished 3/39)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, DramaIn the middle of the 19th century, Japan was still closed off from the outside world. There were just the beginning signs of reformation in the long regime of Shogun Tokugawa.In the remote countryside, on the island of Shikoko, a young boy named Ryoma is growing up in a lower-class Samurai family. A decade later, he is to become on of the leading figures to topple the Shogun's reign and open Japan to the western world.Our story begins with Ryoma, a dreaming kid of seven years. Ryoma is an honest and tenderd-hearted boy who hates any sort of violence and brutality. He is so sensitive, and a bit naive, that he often cries from pity when he sees even the simples act of violence such as another kid trampling a tiny insect. The kids and even his family call him a "cry baby". However, he is not a coward -- not a "chicken" at all. His distress comes from a desire to prevent unreasonable acts and the wrong doings in life.His older sister is the only person who understands his depth. She recognizes that her brother is gifted with a special talent and she does her best to protect him and cheer him up.Not translated. After a great dorama about Ryouma I'm preconceived about this figure already. Of course, his adult life is much more interesting, but one thing is granted - person provides alternative positive outlook on absolutely ordinary things, events and relations. He is able to see good in everything and nurture it against all odds if there is a single chance for improvement. This is the best kind of children anime, the one that truly deserves translation.Overall Rating: 6/1011.Super Bikkurimanスーパービックリマン [Toei Animation] (Finished 3/44)Tags:MythologyAdventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiAfter of the big war between angels and demons, the Earth is almost destroyed and his cities devastated. Wanted to restore the peace and the harmony, four young child decides to fight against the army of evil that rules the world for to eradicate to the Earth and give them back to hell.Not translated. It's the third Bikkuriman season. Same absurdist gag swordsman comedy even in this apocalyptic setting with robots .Overall Rating: 5/1012.Manga Nihonshi (NHK Han)まんが日本史[NHK版] [NHK] (Finished 0/40)Tags:HistoricalEpisodes from Japanese history animated.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1013.Sasurai-kunさすらいくん [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 3/13)Tags:Comedy, Slice of LifeBased on the gag manga by Fujio A Fujiko. Sasurai-kun is fed up with life of an office worker and wanders around Japan.Not translated. First episode was introductory, next ones about onsen. Can't say it's super funny, just mild comedy with some embarrassment.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Macross II: Lovers Again超時空要塞マクロスII -Lovers Again- [AIC] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenMecha, Military, SpaceAdventure, Sci-FiA.D. 2089 - 80 years have passed since Space War I changed the lives of both human and Zentraedi races. Both races are at peace on Earth when a new alien race called the "Marduk" appear within the Solar System. While covering the first battle between the U.N. Spacy and the Marduk fleet, SNN rookie reporter Hibiki Kanzaki discovers Ishtar, an "Emulator" that enhances the Marduk's combat abilities through singing. Hibiki brings Ishtar to Earth to teach her the values of life and culture. Together with ace Valkyrie pilot Silvie Gena, Hibiki and Ishtar must find a way to save Earth from total destruction at the hands of the Marduk leader Ingues.I don't like self-repetitions, I don't like music defeating lethal arms. I don't like Macross II: Lovers Again.Overall Rating: 5/1015.Spirit of Wonder: China-san no Yuuutsuザスピリットオブワンダー - チャイナさんの憂鬱 [Ajia-Do] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenRomance, Sci-FiSometime during the late 19th century, a young Asian girl has made a place for herself in a seaside town as the owner and operator of the Tenkai restaurant and boarding house..Yet "Miss China," as the locals call her, is in the dumps. She's got a Mad Scientist named Breckenridge living upstairs who is chronically late with the rent, and she's pining for Jim, a handsome watchmaker's apprentice whom she mistakenly believes is pursuing the local flower girl.But this isn't our world. It is a world that has the Spirit of Wonder, where every so often, just occasionally mind you, amazing things happen. The Mad Scientist actually has come up with an incredible invention, and Jim has an unbelievable plan to use it to give Miss China the most beautiful ring in all the World.Another aimless and senseless anime about several weird disjointed things and ending in nothing. I really had to rewatch it as I thought I missed something that made sense to all that, but no...Overall Rating: 5/1016.Sousei Kishi Gaiarth創世機士ガイアース[AIC, Studio Kyuuma] (Finished 3/3)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-FiGaiarth - a world devastated by a cataclysmic war, where pockets of humanity struggle to survive amidst the wreckage of technologies made magical by ignorance.Gaiarth - a world where artificially intelligent machines doggedly pursue their programmed imperatives: to protect, or destroy, humanity.Gaiarth - a world in which an old and terrible evil has reawakened, threatening to once again bring forth Armageddon!Anime has nice setting and characters. What kills it for me is mecha casting spells... And just imagine a swordsman with a sword fighting such mecha... so random, so stupid. Well, no good story is told within three 40-minute episodes, just defending for first, going for second and assaulting base for third.Overall Rating: 6/1017.KO Seiki Beast SanjuushiKO Century Beast WarriorsＫＯ世紀　ビースト三獣士 [Gainax] (Finished 7/7)Tags:ShounenMechaAdventure, Comedy, Fantasy, SupernaturalThe series is set in the distant future in which the Earth is split in two. The southern hemisphere is placed in another dimension while the inhabitants of the northern hemisphere are able to morph into beast-like humanoids. Eventually the humans of the southern hemisphere, led by Uranus, attack the Beasts.The Three Beasts, Wan Derbard (Wan Dabadadatta) of the Tiger Tribe, Bud Mint (Baado Mint) of the Bird Tribe, and Mei Mer (Mei Mah) of the Mermaid Tribe, are taken prisoner along with Mei Mer's companion Tuttle Millen (Mekka Mannen, also of the Mermaid tribe), but manage to escape thanks to a little girl named Yuuni Charm Password. Together they seek Gaia, which they believe to be a fabulous treasure, but they are pursued by Uranus's minions : V-Darn the vicious mage-knight, V-Sion the warrior woman and Akumako, V-Darn's sadistic imp-like partner.And another weird fantasy mecha. The focus is on simple humor, so plot has little meaning here - just going somewhere and getting pestered by same weird funny enemies. Gainax humor is probably the best at this moment of time, so it fixes things to an extent.Overall Rating: 6/1018.Joker: Marginal CityJOKER マージナル・シティ[Studio Sign] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Romance, Sci-FiJoker is a genetically engineered shape-and-gender-shifter, who created as part of a Special Police Task Force and fights crime of all kinds, but he/she also fits in a little romance around the edges.It's just 40 minutes, so there's a crime, some short investigation while in office, sudden climax and resolution. I doubt I'd remember it the next day tbh.Overall Rating: 4/1019.Genji源氏 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:HistoricalRomanceTime-traveling lovers Katsumi and Sakura find themselves in the midst of Japan's medieval civil war between the Heike and Genji clans.Not translated. Time travel makes many things messy. Now imagine - two samurai clans fight each other, then three tanks storm in and just annihilate members of one clan... and this scene happens twice. So other clan samurai in the end bring rocket launchers! Seriously, don't watch it.Overall Rating: 4/1020.Gorillamanゴリラーマン [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenDelinquents, SchoolA school comedy about a mute transfer student, Tadashi Iketo, who is constantly shuffled from school to school for his "violent nature," though he really is a mild-mannered boy constantly taunted into fights over his simian appearance.Based on a 1989 manga in Young Magazine by Harold Sakuishi.The distinguishing feature is mute gorilla-resembling cool strong guy. It makes anime a bit cooler and funnier as people around try to guess answer from his emotions, but it still remains just a school anime about delinquents and does not go far from average.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Gekikara Gag Gekijou: Tabasco Shower激辛ギャグ劇場タバスコシャワー[-] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Comedy, EcchiBased on the yonkoma manga by Iwatani Tenho.Not translated. Just a lot of small sketches around H. Most are as small as 2-3 minutes, so there's at least a dozen of them in each episode. In current state of schematic visuals and no translation not recommended.Overall Rating: 4/1022.Chika Gentou Gekiga: Shoujo TsubakiMidori 地下幻燈劇画少女椿 [Mippei Eigeki Kiryuukan] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDrama, HorrorIn the 1920s, a poverty-stricken 12-year-old girl named Midori resorts to selling camellias in the slums of Tokyo. Midori finds little success until, one day, she is approached by a gentleman who offers his sympathy and aid. When her bedridden mother succumbs to an illness, and with no one else to turn to, Midori visits the man's address. To her horror, she discovers that she has been conned into joining his circus troupe, Aka Neko Za—a traveling freak show consisting of vulgar and deformed performers.Midori compares her new fairground lifestyle to hell. Not only is she responsible for caring for her colleagues and cleaning up after them, but she also is frequently belittled and cruelly abused. Suffering and uncertain of what will become of her, she finally begins to feel at ease when Wonder Masamitsu, a master illusionist, joins the lineup. Smitten by Midori's beauty and innocence, Masamitsu takes her under his wing; but even as their love grows, dark times loom ahead for Midori and her fellow freaks.An abominable combination of H and disgust in form of gore , intestines, insects etc. With all the trash going on there's hardly any need for plot at all. I seriously don't have the guts for all those horrible transformation events, so was a torture for me.Overall Rating: 3/1023.Hashire Melos (Movie)走れメロス [Visual 80] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adult Cast, HistoricalAction, AdventureMelos is a good boy from Messina and has come to Syracuse, the magnificent city of temples, to buy a ritual sword for his sister's marriage ceremony. He meets a very talented sculptor and they become friends. Later, the King's guards arrest Melos while he was having a walk in the castle's gardens and Syracuse's King, obsessed by the idea of assassins out to kill him, sentences him to death. Melos is desperate, but most of all he wants to be present at his sister's marriage, so he asks the King for three days to go to Messina for the celebration and then return to Syracuse where he will accept the death penalty. The King does not trust Melos, but, trying to demonstrate that nobody could trust him, asks him to find a volunteer substitute in case he breaks his promise. The sculptor accepts to be Melos' substitute in this case...I'm super mad here. The very same story was put to screen in 1981, and it had a horrible ending without logical explanation. Why shoot it again, is there like zero ideas for anything else already? I thought maybe studio tried to make things right and mend the ending, and it's indeed an improvement. But my case rests the same - absolutely useless story without anything to linger on, so why watch it.Overall Rating: 4/1024.Maison Ikkoku: Prelude - Meguru Haru no Sakura no You ni...Maison Ikkoku: Prelude, When the Cherry Blossoms in the Springtime Returnプレリュードめぞん一刻プレリュードめぐる春の桜のように... [Studio Deen] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAdult CastComedy, Drama, RomanceA prequel of the Maison Ikkoku TV series focusing on Kyoko's relationship with her husband.I mostly like humor and other characters in Maison Ikkoku. It's a decent love story given that it's tod in mere 25 minutes, but with very strange instrument used when events are shown in a small rectangle taking some 1/6 of the screen with already low quality resolution. Other events happen at rectangles of roughly 1/3 of the screen. It kills presentation totally .Overall Rating: 5/10

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Anime of the Year 1990-II Spring - Lodoss-tou Senki

By kivandopulus, September 6, 2022

Anime of the Season

Ended up choosing onlyLodoss-tou Senkias borderline masterpiece.1.Fushigi no Umi no NadiaNadia: Secret of Blue Waterふしぎの海のナディア [Gainax] (Dropped 3/39)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, Comedy, Romance, Sci-FiIn 1889, the world is on the pinnacle of great discoveries in technology. In mankind's grasp for the future, a sinister foe known only as Gargoyle, obsessed with restoring the former Atlantean empire to the glory it once held, begins his plans to take over the world. Nadia, with the help of a young inventor, Jean Roque Lartigue, and Captain Nemo of the submarine Nautilus, must fight to save the world from Gargoyle and Neo-Atlantis. Based on the Novel '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea' by Jules Verne.This anime loses a big time against Boy Conan and even against Flying Castle Laputa. Rather uninspiring and childish overall - can't see its value for adults. It's still above average.Overall Rating: 6/102.NG Knight Ramune & 40NG騎士ラムネ＆４０ [Production Reed] (Dropped 3/38)Tags:ShounenMechaAdventure, Comedy, FantasyLamune is an ordinary 4th grade boy who loves playing video games. He buys one from a peddler girl and helps her sell the rest. At home, he plays the game called "King Sccasher" & beats it. The peddler girl then comes out of the TV screen and asks for his help, calling him "The Blood Relative of the Chosen Hero Lamuness". She is Princess Milk and takes him to Hara-Hara World where his role is to revive the Guardian Knights. To do this, he had to find an unlock the shrine which held Tama-Q, a robot who became Lamuness' Advisor Robot, and key to freeing the Guardian Knights. All of the Knights are free-thinking mechas except for King Sccasher which is piloted by Lamuness. Opposing Lamuness is Don Harumage and his minions Da Cider and Lesuka.SD Mecha with elementary school boy is already pretty much doomed for me. No good humor spotted either.Overall Rating: 5/103.Mahou no Angel Sweet Mint魔法のエンジェルスイートミント [Production Reed] (Dropped 3/47)Tags:ShoujoMint is a girl who happens to be the princess of the world of dreams and magic. The natural environment of her world is a reflection of the dreams of the people on Earth. It is now in danger as people lose faith in their dreams and let darkness enter their hearts. The environment of Mint's world is starting to wither and die.On her 12th birthday, after a gala celebration with her father the King and her mother, she agrees to go to the world of humans to try to preserve people's hopes and dreams, and to prove that she has the qualities necessary to be a wise ruler. Her father arranges for her to stay with his sister, Mint's aunt Herb, who runs a gift shop on Earth called "Happiness Shop".Sweet Mint continues to use magical girl attributes introduced in Creamy Mami and provides an optimistic outlook as she helps people around. At the same time I can't find anything in it that stands out above the average level...Overall Rating: 5/104.Idol Tenshi Youkoso YoukoIdol Angel Welcome Yokoアイドル天使ようこそようこ [Ashi Productions] (Dropped 1/43)Tags:ShoujoComedy, DramaA young girl and her flying squirrel goes to Tokyo in hopes of becoming an idol singer. On the way, she meets another girl who wants to become an actress, and together they work to achieve their dreams.Just one episode seems to be translated. It provides super naïve outlook, probably indeed only for young girls.Overall Rating: 5/105.Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru 2Spirit Hero Wataru 2魔神英雄伝ワタル2 [Sunrise] (Dropped 3/46)Tags:MechaAdventure, ComedyWataru has been lived happily on earth after he defeated Doakudar. When he plays around with his friend, Ryujinmaru appears and ask him to fight again. It appears that the 7 Stars Mountain, the source of Mt. Soukai's rainbow, have been taken over by Doakadar (Doakudar's brother). If all the stars mountain loses their brightness, Mt. Soukai's rainbow will fade and everyone will live in the darkness for eternity. Once again, Wataru has to go through all the 7 stars system and destroy this new stronger enemy.Only for fans of first season...Overall Rating: 5/106.Lodoss-tou SenkiRecord of Lodoss War ロードス島戦記 [Madhouse] (Finished 13/13)Tags:ShounenAction, Adventure, Fantasy, SupernaturalCreated from the aftermath of the last great battle of the gods, Lodoss and its kingdoms have been plagued by war for thousands of years. As a quiet peace and unity finally become foreseeable over the land, an unknown evil begins to stir. An ancient witch has awakened, bent on preserving the island of Lodoss by creating political unbalance throughout the many kingdoms and keeping any one from maintaining central control. Only a mixed-race party of six young champions, led by the young warrior Parn, stand between this new threat and Lodoss' descent back into the darkness of war and destruction.I remember that it impressed me greatly the first time I watched it. I still enjoy it, especially when full adventurer party is in action .Overall Rating: 7/107.Cyber City Oedo 808Cyber CityCYBER CITY OEDO 808 (サイバーシティオーエドハチマルハチ) [Madhouse] (Finished 3/3)Tags:DetectiveAction, Adventure, Sci-FiIt is the year 2808. Three convicts are recruited as members of the Cyber Police to keep major criminal activity in Oedo (formerly Tokyo) in check. In return, their life sentences will be reduced by a few years for every mission accomplished. However, to ensure that these convicts are doing their job, the police have secured special collars around their necks. If they attempt to remove their collars or fail to meet the time limit of their mission, the collars will self-destruct.Can be considered ancestor of Psychopass - even pistols have similar fingerprint locks. Each of three episodes focuses on one of three protagonists with some others also often participating. Well, I could not enjoy Cyber City. It's mostly gory action with a bit of intrigue beforehand. Not enough complexity or development for me .Overall Rating: 6/108.AD PoliceAD Police FilesADポリス [AIC, Artmic] (Finished 3/3)Tags:Adult Cast, Detective, Gore, Mecha, PsychologicalAdventure, Horror, Mystery, Sci-Fi, SuspenseThe year is 2027 in MegaTokyo, six years before the Knight Sabers will make their debut. Boomers (artificial humans) are still a relatively new advancement, and the implementation and integration of boomers into society is still a bit buggy -- sometimes fatally so. Whenever a boomer incident occurs, though, there is the Advanced Police, a special force trained to deal with boomer crimes.Leon McNichol is a rookie in the AD Police, and is just starting to become exposed to the horrors and tragedies one finds every day in MegaTokyo. He and his veteran partner, Gina Marceau, slowly learn about the ever-fading line that separates man from machine.Very messy android action stories. Characters aren't introduced properly. Poor direction, hasty development, absolutely horrible endings. Maybe full-scale series make things right, but in this state can't recommend it to anyone.Overall Rating: 4/109.Goddamnガッデム [Studio Signal] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenRacing ActionCar racing anime, based on the manga by Kaoru Shintani that serialised in Big Comic Superior from 1988 to 1990.I've yet to see an interesting serious racing anime. But Venus wars was about racing partially too, and it was great. I blame scenarios - this is another super bland one with unremarkable characters.Overall Rating: 4/1010.Yagami-kun no Katei no Jijou八神くんの家庭の事情 [Production I.G, Kitty Film Mitaka Studio] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ComedyWell, in short, the mother looks like she's 14, and the kid is "openly" in love with her—loli x motha-con. His teacher, too, is in love with her mother, and so the love rivals duke it out in classroom, as well as plotting the downfall of their common enemy, his father. The father has a secretary who is in love with him. But once she discovered that he has such a "young" wife she turned her attention to his son, who is now torn between his own mother and a naive, motorbike riding girlfriend.Wha? I mean... wha? In first episode son imagines wife of his father naked as he does not believe in their blood ties, but at the end of 1st episode she provides joint baby photos that are very persuasive. As I understand the concept, it would work only with borderline jokes while keeping things civil, and it indeed develops this way. In the end only curiosity urges to watch such silly, shocking comedy, but it is very soon satisfied with only repetition or stakes rising possible, and we already know it goes the repetitions way, so no real point in watching it.Overall Rating: 4/1011.Burning Blood[Magic Bus] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenCombat SportsRyo Takagi is a trumpet player on the verge of hitting it big with his band, but he's also a natural fighter whose blood starts burning when he fights seriously; this gave him the nickname B.B ("Burning Blood"). After suffering absolute defeat at the hands of a young man named Jin Moriyama, though, Ryo decides to trade in his trumpet for a pair of boxing gloves in order to have a rematch the way Moriyama wants it: In the boxing ring.It's above average boxing spokon as characters have their own motivations and problems and because there's pretty much zero boxing in the first episode. But it's physically impossible for me to enjoy a serious spokon, so genre fans should deal with it themselves, really.Overall Rating: 6/1012.Milky Passion: Dougenzaka - Ai no Shiroミルキィパッション道玄坂愛の城 [Animation 501] (Finished 1/1)Tags:JoseiRomanceBased on the Milky Passion manga by Morizono Milk. “Milky Passion” follows Hiromi, a 20-year-old woman working as a stereotypical office lady at a large Japanese company, who is whisked away into a car after work by two suspicious men and taken to a love hotel, where she’s told by the manager there that they want her to become the hotel’s new president. Before she can decline the offer, made to her because her late estranged father was the hotel’s founder, she’s given a fancy apartment near the hotel with designer clothes and accessories, which impress all of the people at her workplace, so she agrees to it. Qualifications? Experience? Who cares about those things when looking for your next president.OVA is just 28 minutes, so it only has time to show prologue, several silly situations at love hotel and worry about rival. No sense in watching it.Overall Rating: 4/1013.Ikenai BoyイケナイBOY [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HaremComedy, EroticaAn anime adaptation of the erotic manga "Ikenai Boy" by Yoshihiro Suma, serialized in Business Jump.Our hero is the typical young energetic college boy, but he got a special gift. He has "magic hands" that puts all women in ecstasy. Obviously he is taking advantage of this gift by meeting one bishoujo after the other!Second part of Ikenai Boy is marked as hentai, this one is mostly about nude massage. It's still closer to hentai as massage is in the focus and there's nothing else notable in this anime.Overall Rating: 0/1014.Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!I am THE Shiratori Reiko!白鳥麗子でございます！ [Ajia-Do] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Romance19-year old Reiko is a rich, arrogant, material girl, who refuses to admit her feelings for classmate Tetsuya Akimoto before it's almost too late. Reiko pursues him to Tokyo and enrolls at his university in an attempt to win him back.Guess this concept got so many TV adaptations because of combination of reasons : 1) girl is fashionable and from rich family 2) girl is proactive and willful 3) lots of youth craziness with rules of morals not applying. I'm sure it can be a funny dorama, but to show it all within 45 minutes with rather poorly designed character sprites... was mission impossible from the start.Overall Rating: 4/1015.Taiman Blues: Ladies-hen - Mayumiたいまんぶるうずレディース編真由美 [Tokuma Japan] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenDelinquentsMayumi runs away from home from to escape her predatory stepfather only to be abducted by members of a delinquent motorcycle gang. She's taken under the wing by Noriko, who invites her to move into her apartment, finds her a job in a service station and introduces her to the world of motorcycling. The two set up their own all-female gang - Eight Angels - but soon discover that local male-dominated gangs are hostile to this intrusion on their turf.Just when I said there was just one anime series about female gangs, here it is second one. It's better than male previous version Shimizu Naoto-hen in every single way, mostly because it does not limit itself to just tale about gangs. Nice coming of age story, definitely above average, though nothing special.Overall Rating: 6/1016.Onimaru: Senjou ni Kakeru Itsutsu no Seishun鬼丸戦場に駆ける五つの青春 [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, AdventureDuring the Onin wars in Japan's medieval Muromachi era, five powerful warriors hire out their services to the highest bidder. Onimaru is the leader; Bo handles demolitions; Saru is as agile as a monkey; Osamu is a cool tactician; and Kiri is the sexy swordswoman. The group gains an extra member when Onimaru rescues Princess Aya who naturally falls in love with him and refuses to go away.Not translated. It's mostly protagonist ninja with non-fighting girl princess defending against atacking ninja and some other warriors on several occasions. The company is colorful, there's some comedy and some explicit content, so overall rather average, but without translation not worth watching.Overall Rating: 5/1017.Otokogi男樹[-] (Dropped 2/3)Tags:SeinenOrganized CrimeAfter his father leaves when he is very young, Kyosuke Murata grows up under the thumb of his overprotective mother, Shizuko. When he reaches adulthood, he is thrown into the harsh, violent world of Japanese gangland when his mother becomes involved in a gang-related crime. He goes up against the Murata-gumi organization, only to find that his estranged father is its head. Rising up through the ranks, Kyosuke eventually unites half the gangs in Japan beneath his own leadership, only to find that the other half have also combined to resist his new power, starting the greatest gang war in Japanese history.Not translated. There have been several serious yakuza OVAs so far, and none of them were nice. I blame lack of scale. This one has an alright scale of the whole country, so might be Japanese Godfather or something, but third episode is not found, so the resolution is unknown. Overall, a serious anime with a lot of characters and gore, above average yakuza anime for sure.Overall Rating: 6/1018.Tonari no Tokoroとなりのトコロ [Pastel] (Dropped 0/1)Tags:ComedyBased on the original story by famous Japanese comedian George Tokoro.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1019.Furiten-kun (1990)フリテンくん [Knack Productions] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenComedy, Slice of LifeContinuation of the everyday life adventures of the avid mahjong player Furiten-kun.Not translated. I quite dig kinky corporate parody humor. Would be a lot better translated.Overall Rating: 6/1020.Versailles no Bara: Seimei Aru Kagiri Aishiteベルサイユのばら生命あるかぎり愛して [Tokyo Movie Shinsha] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoHistoricalDrama, RomanceA theatrical re-edit/summary of the TV series. Some of the voice actors were changed (eg. Oscar is played by Keiko Toda instead of re-using the original audio by Reiko Tajima).Not translated (except in Spanish) and very poor video quality. Fine for those who does not want to watch this whole series.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Onna Senshi Efe & Jira: Gude no MonshouGude Crest: The Emblem of Gude女戦士エフェ&ジーラグーデの紋章 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, FantasyTwo partners Effera and Jiliora escape from a slave boat with the aid of their friend Orlin and a young boy named Kilian. When Kilian is killed in the escape Effera and Jiliora take it upon themselves to return Kilian's pendant to his two siblings who are being held captive by Baron Celdion, who is plotting to take over all of the neighboring countries.Again, not bad small fantasy OVA does not go further than that and remains just not bad to the end.Overall Rating: 6/1022.Hashire! Shiroi OokamiWhite Fang走れ! 白いオオカミ [Group TAC, Toho] (Finished 1/1)Tags:DramaA boy named Lasset who lives on a farm in the rural northern US makes a perilous trek through the wilderness to a sanctuary 300 miles to the north to save the life of a gray wolf that he had raised from a puppy after an incident in which the wolf kills the family dog.I've come to conclusion that all anime about normal non-speaking animals is made for kids and it tries to show morals and teach as first priority, and story is second priority and not that important or interesting usually. I think there were at least three similar anime about Silver Fang already, it stops to be funny on the second run let alone the fourth.Overall Rating: 5/1023.Kuro ga Ita Natsuクロがいた夏 [GEN Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Historical, PetsDramaHiroshima, summer of 1945. A young girl named Nobuko saves a starving kitten from crows. She wants to keep the kitten, but her parents dismiss the idea. Nobuko eventually convinces them to let her keep it. She and her brother Makoto name the cat Kuro. Kuro quickly brings joy and laughter to the family. As World War II takes its toll on Japan, it becomes harder for Nobuko and her family to care for Kuro. One August morning, Kuro begins acting strangely...This anime is stupid not because kitten saves protagonists two times and then dies heroically, but the way American fighter pilot flies low and with a smirk aims with machine gun scope at a small girl running with a kitten in the center of the street and launches a barrage. If you make movie like this, best not make any, really.Overall Rating: 4/1024.Heavyヘヴィ [Artland, Nippon Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Drama, SportsGai, a karate expert in the New York slum, is trained to be a boxing champion by a cancer-strucken doctor and a transvestite suffering from AIDS. Based on the manga by Motoka Murakami.Not translated. Another above the average boxing movie, but by how above is for spokons fans to decide.Overall Rating: 6/1025.Perrine Monogatari Movie劇場版ペリーヌ物語 [Nippon Animation] (Dropped 0/1)Tags:ShoujoHistoricalDrama, Slice of LifeMovie version of the TV series Perrine Monogatari.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1026.Makkuro na Obentouまっ黒なおべんとう [Kyodo Eiga] (Dropped 0/1)Tags:HistoricalDraman the 6th of August, 1945, an atomic bomb was dropped on the city of Hiroshima. A young boy, Shigeru, left home for his job as a building excavator that morning, carrying a bento made by his mother, only to never return home again. Before long, his mother managed to find Shigeru's remains, and she noticed the completely black and carbonized bento box next to them.This is an anime adaptation of the original book, "Makkuro na Obentou (The Charred Lunchbox)" written by Kodama Tatsuharu and illustrated by Kitajima Shinpei. The bento box that becomes the focus of the story is actually on display in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1027.Obatalianオバタリアン [Sunrise] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ComedyThe pejorative word obatalian is a pun between the Japanese word obaasan (old lady) and the English word battalion. Obatalian are known to always enter a train running as fast as they can, bumping others people in order to catch a free seat before the others. They haggle things that aren't normally haggled like grocery store produce. They are fearless and pitiless, just like a battalion of barbarians. This anime is follows 6 stories of one such Obatalian and her wake of destruction.Not translated. But hilarious battle grannies, as expected.Overall Rating: 6/10

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Anime of the Year 1992-I Winter - Mama wa Shougaku 4 Nensei

By kivandopulus, September 21, 2022

Anime of the Year

What a slow start of the year. Can call just one anime decent, and that'sMama wa Shougaku 4 Nensei1.Uchuu no Kishi Tekkaman BladeTekkaman Blade宇宙の騎士テッカマンブレード [Tatsunoko Production] (Finished 3/49)Tags:Shounen Mecha, Military, Space Action, Adventure, Drama, Romance, Sci-FiTekkaman Blade takes place in the year 2300 AD. On a certain moment, the Radam attack earth. A few months after the beginning of the invasion, a tekkaman appears, he calls himself Blade and with the help of the Space Knights, Blade starts to fight the radam. But there are a few things that Blade isn't telling about his past.I see it as very generic Aliens vs sentai mecha stuff with bigger focus on characters than usual even though characters themselves aren't likeable. Drama would only work for me if I had sympathy towards characters. Above average in the genre, but outsiders like me would be bored.Overall Rating: 5/102.Mama wa Shougaku 4 NenseiMama is Just a Fourth Grade Pupilママは小学４年生 [Sunrise] (Finished 4/51)Tags:ChildcareComedy, Drama, Sci-FiNatsumi Mizuki is a 4th grader whose parents have gone to London. Her Aunt Izumi comes to live with her. Izumi is an aspiring manga writer who is trying to get her first big break, so she doesn't have time for a baby that appears out of thin air on Natsumi's first night alone. The baby's name is Mirai and her mother is *Natsumi*, but 15 years older. Somehow, Mirai had traveled back in time. Now the young Natsumi has to raise Mirai while trying to keep her 4th grade life from falling apart and keep Mirai-chan secret from everyone. She has the dubious help of Izumi and some baby-care gadgets from the future.Opening is an eternal hit, and it's watchable, I definitely watched more in the past. It has enough cuteness for the whole season. At the same time due to the concept there's a lot of crying and quarrelling, which is not pleasant to say the least. Also lacks humor or I did not make it far enough for it to shine.Overall Rating: 6/103.Densetsu no Yuusha Da Garn伝説の勇者ダ・ガーン [Sunrise] (Finished 3/46)Tags:ShounenMechaSci-FiOne day, the Earth was assaulted by a space pirate, Orbus. He aimed at Planet Energy, the life energy of the Earth. If several Release Points, where the Planet Energy concentrated, were attacked at once, the Earth would explode.When the first attack was made, Takasugi Seiji escaped into an old temple with his girl friend Kosaka Hikaru. Then, he received, Orin, a token of the leader of the Earth guardians, from the conscience of the Earth. By the power of Orin, the patrol car was turned into a Robot, Da Garn.As Sunrise part of the mecha series, it's trying to bring more of the same with different characters, so won't experiment. I even failed to find distinguishing features - just typical Sunrise mecha with typical genki protagonist. The fact that transformer is a police car is hardly an innovation. There's a minimal stamp of quality with characters and humor, but it's not enough anymore after so many similar works.Overall Rating: 5/104.Hana no Mahoutsukai Mary Bell花の魔法使いマリーベル[Production Reed] (Finished 3/50)Tags:ShoujoAdventure, FantasyMary Bell, a magical girl who looks like a girl around five years old, comes to the human world from a magical world called "Flower Magic World", and helps and encourages people.All characters are kids too young to attend school. It's super naïve. All the flowers and stars can just stop and some song can start occasionally... if it's a shoujo then a shoujo for kids.Overall Rating: 4/105.Daisougen no Chiisana Tenshi: Bush BabyBush Baby, Little Angel of the Great Plains大草原の小さな天使　ブッシュベイビー [Nippon Animation] (Finished 2/40)Tags:Adventure, DramaWhen Jackie Rhodes, a british girl living in Kenya with her family, finds an ill animal called a Bushbaby, she adopts him, calls him Murphy and nurses him back to health. Murphy, Jackie, her family and their friends go on many adventures involving wild animals, poachers and more. But when Jackie's father is recalled to England, Jackie must leave her life in Africa behind. However, before she can go, Jackie, Murphy and Tembo, a friend of Jackie's father, go on one last adventure: they must cross the dangerous savannah to escape the poachers and corrupt police officers chasing them. Along the way, Jackie teaches the now domesticated Murphy to survive in the wild, so that, before she leaves, she can release him in his natural habitat.Partially subbed, but fully dubbed because only generic safe old works were bought and dubbed in the past. World theater series. As usual, I'm not impressed with just SOL about girl and wild animals from Africa.Overall Rating: 5/106.Video Girl Ai電影少女 VIDEO・GIRL・AI [Production I.G] (Finished 6/6)Tags:Comedy, Drama, Romance, EcchiAfter a crushing rejection, the heartbroken Youta Moteuchi trudges home. On his way, a dimly lit video store catches his eye, and he ends up purchasing a "video girl" tape meant to ease the hearts of lonely men. However, when he tries to play it in his broken VCR, a beautiful girl leaps out of his TV and lands on his bed. Calling herself Ai Amano, she looks like a golden opportunity for Youta to finally experience true love—that is, until her personality, now troubling thanks to the broken VCR, shows through. Despite her flaws, however, Ai wholeheartedly promises she will ensure Youta finds happiness and true love in his life.Video Girl Ai follows the daily life of a teenage boy and his pursuit of a fulfilling romance. With the help of his virtual guardian angel, Youta sets forth to find the girl of his dreams.The third anime with girl suddenly showing up at boy's room. Ecchi is only flashed like three times in all the episodes, so it's not real Ecchi. And as you can see from the number of episodes it can't be just fanservice situations. Instead, the favorite plot move is used for extension - love triangle, even love square. And only last episode has to do with video girl nature and existence. I found nothing special in it , again appeal to cuteness, emotions - immature stuff like that and immature dialogues.Overall Rating: 5/107.Handsome Girlハンサムな彼女 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoShowbizRomanceHagiwara Mio is a 14-year-old TV actress who has gotten popular. One day on a set, she meets Kumagai Ichiya, who tells her that her acting "stinks." Mio is hurt by his comments, but she finds that she can't get Ichiya out of her mind. It turns out that Ichiya is a promising director, who directed a music video for Mio's friend Sawaki Aya, an idol singer. After the success of this music video, Ichiya is asked to direct a movie, and he wants Mio to be the heroine, because he feels that she is a "handsome" girl like the actresses of old. How will Mio cope with her feelings toward Ichiya?A large chunk of the small OVA are songs, so there's only time to get offended, then shoot some movie scenes, then overhear Ichiya and get offended again... then make peace again, the end. Not worth the time spent.Overall Rating: 4/108.Kennel Tokorozawaケンネル所沢 [Animation 21] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Pets, SchoolComedy, EcchiPet shop owner's daughter Chika Tokorozawa spends every waking hour with her dog, Rin Tin Tin, who repays her love by watching over her while she sleeps. Based on the manga in Young Sunday magazine by Maki Otsubo, who is better known in the manga world for Mr. Cinema.Wow, pervert dog with thoughts as protagonist... really brave. The whole anime is a one big bestiality running joke, so would be inappropriate for majority of viewers. But if you're fine with that or want to troll a friend, it can be of slightly higher score.Overall Rating: 4/109.Babel Nisei (OVA)Babel II [J.C.Staff] (Finished 4/4)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiLife seems simple for Koichi, a young student, until he learns that he is the reincarnation of an alien protector who crashed onto the mantle of responsibility as"defender of the Earth", Koichi/Babel teams up with a trio of super-powered alien companions to battle the the dark forces of an evil cult leader. The war to save humanity takes Babel from the deserts of southern Asia to the upper east side of Manhattan and ultimately to a final showdown with "the master" in a hidden base nestled in the Swiss Alps. The action is fast-paced and deadly. The fate of the world rests in the ability of this courageous youth to tame his latent psychic power and use it to defeat the enemies of mankind.The old Babel series was purely horrible, I still get goose-skin when remember it. This one is more down-to-earth and has more extensive introduction or setting and characters. With a lot shorter length it's finally possible to sit through it now. Esper powers, exotic locations and giant beasts have always been in the core of Babel Nisei, but cringe has achieved a whole new level due to addition of mecha... I loathe this series so much.Overall Rating: 4/1010.Sequenceシークエンス [Ashi Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoRomance, Sci-FiSuffering from a crippling memory loss ever since an accident at the age of six, Toshiaki finds new hope, and a new mystery, when he is visited by a girl from his own future.Amnesia , deja vu , future premonition, time travel. The whole mystery gets explained around these terms over a longer time. Personally, I never got involved enough to care, but someone might.Overall Rating: 5/1011.High School Jingiはいすくーる仁義 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenDelinquents, Organized CrimeAction, ComedyThe impulsive Yakuza Jouji was ordered by his boss to teach at a misfit-filled school. He now has to settle the score with a fated rival while falling head over heels for a colleague in the process.Fighting (usually delinquents) is the main theme here and running after skirts is a secondary one. Nothing really outstanding.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Shiritsutantei: Toki Shouzou Trouble Note - Hard & Loose私立探偵・土岐正造トラブル・ノート　ハード＆ルーズ [Artland] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, MysteryBased on the manga by Tsuchiya Garon (aka Marley Carib), art by Kawaguchi Kaiji, serialised in Action in the 80s.Toki Shouzou is a private detective. Despite all his best effort, he is not exactly overwhelmed by a big workload. Past his callous demeanor, Toki, deep down, cares about making the world a better place and readily accepts any small request. Toki cherishes a particular person, but is it mutual?...It's sort of daily routine of one cool manly detective with a bit of everything. The question is why we should watch it.Overall Rating: 4/1013.Ruri-iro Princessるり色プリンセス [Pierrot] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoRomanceHigh school girl Ruri is dragged into a battle over the fate of the Pulsean Moon when the princess Leila sends assassins to dispense with her. Ruri's lover, Toru, is wounded protecting her, and Ruri must leave the real world behind and journey to the Pulsean Moon to save him. Based on the manga in Omajinai Comic by Mito Orihara, who also wrote the theme song.Not translated. It starts as a normal school shoujo, continues as a sort of magical girl and end with nothing as antagonist is still there, only immediate assassin threat is gone. It's shoujo to the bones in spirit, just with a needlessly more complex plot than usual .Overall Rating: 5/1014.Naniwa Yuukyoudenなにわ遊侠伝 [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Organized CrimeAction, ComedyTaido Kaimon is the leader of the Kinshu Group ganster syndicate in Kansai region. His gang is a cluster of wisecracking madmen, eternally running into trouble with the law, each other, and the local girls who give as good as they get.Not translated. As it comes with many old yakuza anime, it's Ecchi. Drawing is simple fitting 1970s, animation itself with eyes protruding a good 20 cm to express emotions is irritating. There are several different stories within OVA, like four. Humor is pretty silly to enjoy it. There will be several more same untranslated sequels of Naniwa Yuukyouden over a few years, but I'm not going to skip them all as concept of episodic comedy is not going to change.Overall Rating: 4/1015.Ishinomori Shoutarou no Rekishi Adventure石ノ森章太郎の歴史アドベンチャー [Bandai Visual] (Finished 0/5)Tags:Historical, SamuraiA two-part video series in which Dr. Teng (a researcher at the Time Institute) and his faithful kappa assistant Pasuke travel through time, first to the Battle of Sekigahara (1600) and then to the fourth Battle of Kawanakajima (1561). In the second installment, they then look in on the last stand of the Japanese underdog hero Yoshitsune in Hiraizu mi (1189) and then, after spending so much time on the Genpei War, suddenly leap several centuries into the future, to cover the first time Nobunaga Oda used firearms in battle, at Nagashino (1575) . A mixture of live-action and anime, described by Japanese sources as a "documentary with a touch of story," and presumably related in some way to Shotaro Ishinomori's multivolume manga history of Japan.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1016.Terajima-chou Kidan: Ginnagashi寺島町奇譚ぎんながし [-] (Finished 0/1)Tags:HistoricalTen-year-old Kyoshi watches as a tramp transforms himself into a rich imposter at a stand-up bar in the Tamanoi district. Amusing tales from prewar Tokyo based on the 1968 autobiographical manga Strange Tales of Terajima and written by Yu Takita for the alternative magazine Garo.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1017.Dragon Quest: Dai no Daibouken Tachiagare!! Aban no ShitoDragon Quest Great Adventure of Dai! Disciple of Aban.ドラゴンクエスト　ダイの大冒険　起ち・がれ！！アバンの使徒 [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Adventure, FantasyThe second Dragon Quest Dai no Daibouken movie. The story takes place between episode 18 and 19 of the TV series.First episodes were more impressive. As a filler happening between two episodes, it can't be a serious plot move. In the end it's just a mashup of going somewhere, fighting someone and recollection of the past. Maybe it hints something for those who watched the series, but outside it pretty much useless.Overall Rating: 4/1018.Sangokushi: Dai Ichi Bu - Eiyuu-tachi no Yoake三国志第一部英雄たちの夜明け [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalThe Yellow Turban rebellion that initiated the downfall of the ruling Han dynasty. At the start of the story, both Liu Bei, its eventual protagonist, and Cao Cao, its eventual antagonist, are minor players. Liu Bei is striving to find a way to bring order to a chaotic world. As he puzzles he way toward the correct course of action, he befriends two powerful warriors, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu. Together, they take the Oath of the Peach Garden, to live and die together as warriors for justice. Meanwhile, Cao Cao is pondering how to fulfill his destiny as "a hero in a chaotic world or a villain in a peaceful one."Initially, power seems to belong to usurping warlord Dong Zhuo and his right-hand man, the hero Lu Bu. But the two soon fall out over a woman, and the resulting power vacuum gives Cao Cao his chance. Even though Lu Bu is the stronger warrior, Cao Cao has the devil's own luck on the battlefield. Liu Bei tries to stick to the right course, but he is just a minor piece on the giant chessboard of China's warring states. War rages up and down the country, with inconclusive result, thus setting the stage for the next two movies in the series.The start is Yellow Turban rebellion just as the start of Sangokushi TV series, so the natural question is whether one of these shows is made obsolete by the other. The fact is Dawn of heroes uses different images of characters that we got used to over the course of three shows. I don't like drawing style and showing many characters rather weak breaking the coolness. All it adds to the story is complexity - the girl Liu Bei promised to return to and save, the way Liu Bei got acquainted with each of his future generals, some additional meaningless characters to talk to... absolutely unimportant things like that. It also ends very early, maybe at a quarter of TV series content. My score can seem harsh for a definitely above average anime, but my estimation is based on its place in the series. And it only erodes the legacy formed by now while adding nothing worth mentioning.Overall Rating: 4/1019.Patchin shite! Obaachanパッチンして！おばあちゃん [-] (Finished 0/1)Tags:DramaThe story takes place in Kanazawa and tells the story of Yasue, an old woman who suddenly became very ill, her whole body paralyzed. She is told by her doctor she only has two weeks to live...Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1020.Boyfriendボ～イフレンド [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoRomance, SportsTakatou Masaki is the second youngest of four sons, and seemingly a delinquent by nature. His hot temper has put a wedge between himself and his strict father, gotten him kicked out of one school, and tossed him at a school notoriously horrible for the one thing he's truly good at, basketball. A chance encounter with the willful Yuuki Kanako may serve as a catalyst for change, as the indefinable connection she feels with him draws them together...I so hate these Korean suspense medical dorama when someone is on the brink of death each day. Here is a similar case as romance spawns from pity because of heart disease. Feels fake instantly due to this cheesing. If you can stand such a move, it sure deserves a higher score due to developed characters.Overall Rating: 4/10

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Anime of the Year 1991-IV Fall - Yokoyama Mitsuteru Sangokushi

By kivandopulus, September 18, 2022

Anime of the Year

Yokoyama Mitsuteru Sangokushiis not as spectacular asSangokushi movies, but I was interested in learning the roots of the story so much that I enjoyed it substantially nevertheless.1.Dragon Quest: Dai no Daibouken (TV)ドラゴンクエスト・ダイの大冒険 [Toei Animation] (Finished 3/46)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, MythologyAdventure, Comedy, FantasyAfter the defeat of the demon lord Hadlar all of the monsters were unleashed from his evil will and moved to the island of Delmurin to live in peace. Dai is the only human living on the island. Having been raised by the kindly monster Brass, Dai's dream is to grow up to be a hero. He gets to become one when Hadlar is resurrected and the previous hero, Avan, comes to train Dai to help in the battle. But Hadlar, announcing that he now works for an even more powerful demon lord, comes to kill Avan. To save his students Avan uses a Self-Sacrifice spell to attack, but is unable to defeat Hadlar. When it seems that Dai and Avan's other student Pop are doomed a mark appears on Dai's forehead and he suddenly gains super powers and is able to fend off Hadlar. The two students then go off on a journey to avenge Avan and bring peace back to the world.Actually, a decent shounen. Logical and easy to watch. In the end it still equals to a kid fighting monsters, so not exactly for me, but it has quite some charm. But there's a remake now, so I'd rather watch remake tbh.Overall Rating: 6/102.Yokoyama Mitsuteru Sangokushi横山光輝三国志 [Enoki Films, Dai Nippon Printing] (Finished 47/47)Tags:HistoricalAction, AdventureAround 1800 years ago in China, the ruling power of the Han dynasty became weakened and the flames of war spread throughout the land.Liu Bei was a young, poor straw-mat seller from the countryside of Hebai Hsing. After pledging eternal brotherhood with the two heroes, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, Liu began building his idea of a righteous kingdom that would aid citizens who suffered from persecution.After first two movies I had to watch this prequel in full. It starts when there is one empire and with some small Yellow Turban rebellion of riffraff. We get to know initial positions and development of everyone, even the red mare, lol. In 35 episode timeline synchs with the first movie as in this episode Liu Bei comes to Liang Kongming and asks to be his advisor. Last 47 episode finishes with naval battle that is the end of first Sangokushi movie. So I do not recommend watching it beyond 34 episode as movies are more beautiful and spectacular in every way. I still enjoyed it somewhat and it was nice to know everyone's story.Overall Rating: 7/103.Moero! Top StrikerTop Striker 燃えろ! トップストライカー [Nippon Animation] (Finished 1/49)Tags:ShounenAction, SportsHikaru Kicker is a 13-year-old boy who loves football. He has grown up playing with a football at all times ever since his father's friend gave him one when he was still only a baby.Hikaru goes to Italy to learn the sport. He first joins a strong team at Genova, but soon quits this team to join an extremely weak team named "Columbus" with his female friend Anna.Experiencing many hardships and difficulties, their team gradually becomes stronger and stronger, and finally they defeat Margerita, one of the strongest soccer teams in Genova.Soon Hikaru hears that Genova will stage its first soccer tournament. Throughout the tournament, Hikaru and his teammates confront many rivals and develop increasing maturity.Can Hikaru score a goal and which team will win the championship?Only one episode seems to be translated. Captain Tsubasa was 11 years old, and Hukaru is 13 years old, but looks younger than the first one. I'm not the one to judge spokons, but this one looks quite generic with the distinguishing feature being initial start in Italy. Everyone is kinda normal and kind, and only grandmother opposes chosen career... for like 2 minutes, lol. Totally average.Overall Rating: 5/104.Kinnikuman: Kinnikusei Oui Soudatsu-henキン肉マン　キン肉星王位争奪編 [Toei Animation] (Finished 3/46)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, SportsKinnikuman has proven himself worthy to be crowned the next king of Planet Kinniku. But at the ceremony, five other Kinnikuman's arrive, all claiming to be the true prince of Planet Kinniku. Now, a Royal Survivor Tournament is being held to decide the true successor to the throne, and with the help and support of his friends and with his recently acquired knowledge of the Ultimate Technique (The Muscle Spark), Kinnikuman fights for what is rightfully his.It's a sequel rather than some alteration, so you know everything already. Those who finished original series won't need feedback, those who did not should not expect anything different, maybe only slightly better humor.Overall Rating: 6/105.Mahou no Princess Minky Momo: Yume wo DakishimeteMagical Princess Minky Momo: Hold on to Your Dreams魔法のプリンセス　ミンキーモモ（夢を抱きしめて） [Production Reed] (Finished 3/62)Tags:Mahou ShoujoAfter the events of the 1st series, Fenarinarsa continues to drift from Earth, so the King asks for help from the kingdom, Marinarsa, to send their daughter, Momo (Who is identical to the 1st one) to Earth to regain humanity's faith in their dreams.Not translated. Momo is one of the youngest magical girls, so it's for younger girls as well. All kinds of cute plushies and animals accompany her. I just can't take her seriously.Overall Rating: 5/106.Genji Tsuushin Agedamaゲンジ通信あげだま [Gallop] (Finished 3/51)Tags:ParodyAction, Comedy, Sci-FiAgedama is a small boy going to elementary school and having the usual problems for a boy of his age. He is also secretly a superhero-in-training (called "Agedaman"). Along with Wapuro, his floating computer companion, he fights against a criminal organization who can turn humans into monsters of various types.Not translated. Such plot is a commonplace since 1960s. Young protagonist and elementary comedy make it instantly forgettable.Overall Rating: 5/107.Reporter Bluesレポーターブルース [TMS Entertainment] (Finished 3/52)Tags:Comedy, MysteryThe intelligent Antoinette, known to her friends as Tony, moves to Paris where she takes a job as a reporter for the newspaper ""La Voix de Paris." Together with the photographer Alain and the artist Bricolage she solves unsolved crimes and often crosses the path of the crook Madame Lapin.Not translated (if not counting French). Reporter witnesses different crimes, sometimes helps somewhat. Plots are linked to Paris places of interest a lot, so this title can be considered promo material for France.Overall Rating: 4/108.Chie-chan Funsenki: Jarinko Chieチエちゃん奮戦記じゃりン子チエ [Tokyo Movie Shinsha] (Finished 3/39)Tags:SeinenComedy, DramaAn adaptation of the first series, with different characters and an alternate setting.Not translated. It's actually a normal second season, only some voice actors have changed which is natural with 10 years pause. Very nice as usual, but I'm not sure I'll live up to the moment it gets a translation.Overall Rating: 6/109.Marude Dameo丸出だめ夫 [Pierrot] (Finished 2/47)Tags:ShounenComedy, Sci-FiThe series stars an elementary school boy named Dameo Marude, who has little success with anything he tries, and a robot named Borot, which is good with housekeeping.Not translated. Yet another Doraemon clone, this time with some cute small robot as mascott. Another kids anime not marked properly.Overall Rating: 4/1010.Koko wa Green WoodHere is Greenwoodここはグリーン・ウッド [Pierrot, Ajia-Do] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShoujoComedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of Life, SupernaturalHasukawa Kazuya is in a terrible bind. His brother's new wife is also the woman that Kazuya secretly loves. Determined to avoid them both, Kazuya leaves home to live in the student dorm called Greenwood. There, he hopes to find peace of mind. Unfortunately for Kazuya, stability and peace are the last things one might find at Greenwood - home of the weirdest characters on campus.Boys school dormitory SOL comedy with a solid manga source. Above average overall with ok humor including references to RPG, but demographic is Shoujo, so probably just not for me as I don't get why would I want to watch a boys school dormitory SOL with cross-dressing.Overall Rating: 6/1011.Kyoushoku Soukou Guyver IIThe Guyver: Bio-Booster Armor強殖装甲ガイバー II [Visual 80] (Finished 6/6)Tags:Action, Adventure, Drama, Horror, Sci-FiSho and his friend Tetsurou stumble upon an odd alien artifact while walking through the woods. Then, the alien artifact breaks free of its metallic bonds and enters Sho's body, turning him into the Guyver. With this new power, Sho must do battle with the evil Chronos corporation and their genetically enhanced Zoanoids, who seek to get the Guyver back into their labs. No one close to Sho is safe from Chronos. He must fight.Original had freshness effect, Moreover, only final two episodes bear plot value, the first ones are just enemies thrown at protagonists to fight. But I can't argue that action and thrill are on above average level.Overall Rating: 6/1012.Dark Catダークキャット [Agent 21] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mythology, Super PowerAction, Horror, SupernaturalHyoi and Ryoi, two brothers with the power to take the form of cats, must unravel the mystery of a creeping, tentacled, demon plague before it consumes them and their classmates. Ultimately, they must confront their old Dark Cat master Jukokubo, though whether they can put an end to the evil he has released remains a mystery.Well, another infamously bad anime. Three weird stories developing aimlessly and ending randomly.Overall Rating: 3/1013.Ninja Ryuukenden忍者龍剣伝 [Studio Junio] (Finished 1/1)Tags:MythologyAction, Sci-Fi, Supernatural, SuspenseOn a dark, late night in New York City, Ryu is chased and attacked by assassins. After disposing of them, he finds an I.D. card for the Friedman Company. The next day, it is announced that Dr. Ned Friedman has discovered a cure for cancer. But after providing no information at his press conference, a reporter named Sarah decides to investigate with the help of her friends Robert and Jeff. When passing by Dr. Friedman's house one day, Ryu hears the voice of a young girl calling for help. When Sarah and her entourage investigate the house as well, they run into their colleague, Ryu. Upon that, they discover Dr. Friedman has been conducting experiments on live humans using biotechnology, and that it may have something to do with the power of the Evil Gods, whom Ryu had defeated in the past. But when Ryu's friend, Irene, is kidnapped, he must dawn his role as a Dragon Ninja once again to defeat this new enemy and save her.Game themed anime could be a lot worse, but it manages to stay a trashy average action that even has some charm.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Gall Force: New Eraガルフォース新世紀編 [AIC] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Mecha, Military, SpaceAction, Sci-FiThe year is 2291, and the citizens live a peaceful existence after the catastrophic war between the humans and the Yuman. This quiet life is about to be shattered, the leader of the Yuman is not convinced the war is over, and now plans to renew hostilities!Gall Force series was always about survival on the brink of destruction. This one starts in a peaceful environment and continues as chasing a hacker. I'm not impressed, lackluster ending is another downer.Overall Rating: 5/1015.Monkey Punch no Sekai: Aliceモンキー・パンチの世界　アリス [Takahashi Studio] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Comedy, EcchiReleased in 1991, this OVA revolves around a mad scientist and the woman that betrayed him. Her unfaithfulness causes the scientist to turn her into a bionic sex machine that desires to please her man completely. However, she still remains unfaithful, and it is up to the scientist`s son to track her down and exact revenge.Trashy, but more funny than Lupin for sure.Overall Rating: 6/1016.Kyuukyoku Choujin RThe Ultimate Esper "R"究極超人あ～る [Studio Coa] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Sci-FiThe plot featured R and the Camera Club going on a stamp tour throughout Japan, with the threat of their club being closed down unless they can collect all the stamps by 6:00 PM.The whole travel part leaves me indifferent, but humor saves it.Overall Rating: 6/1017.Eiyuu Gaiden Mozaicka英雄凱伝モザイカ [Studio Deen] (Finished 4/4)Tags:FantasyFrom Ryosuke Takahashi and Norio Shioyama, the creative minds behind great animes such as Armored Trooper VOTOMs and Panzer World Galient, comes an epic tale of swords and sorcery! On the eternal planet of Mozaika, the formerly benevolent King Sazara has been possessed by an evil priest and has begun a bloody path of conquest all across the world! Mozaika's only hope is the young warrior U-Taruma, son of U-Dante, one of Sazara's victims. If you like fantasy, or classic Norio Shioyama character designs, you can't miss this 4-episode OVA!Never thought fantasy could be so boring... like Votoms, really. Even protagonist is a total douchebag. Everything is horrible here, but mostly poor drawing, dark colors, monotonous pace, uninspiring characters.Overall Rating: 5/1018.1-gatsu ni wa ChristmasChristmas in January1月にはChristmas [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, RomanceNobumasa is a boy who works part-time in a shoe store, where he meets Mizuki, a girl whose abusive family life has left her unable to trust other people. Meanwhile, Nobumasa is unaware that another girl, Seiko, has a crush on him but is unable to express her feelings.I never encountered a really funny or interesting Christmas story. Boredom as usual.Overall Rating: 5/1019.Fuuma no Kojirou: Fuuma Hanran-hen風魔の小次郎～風魔反乱篇～ [animate Film] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMartial ArtsAction, FantasyAfter the Chaos war, Kojiro and Ryouma return to earth only to find their clan members killing off each other.I never rated prequels high, don't see it regaining senses in this OVA either - same pretentious ninja anime.Overall Rating: 5/1020.Tomoe ga Yuku!巴がゆく! [animate Film] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoAction, Drama, Romance, SuspenseThe title character of Tomoe ga Yuku! (Tomoe Will Go!) is gutsy enough to roller skate down freeways for thrills. After losing a friend in a roller skating accident, Tomoe joins a stunt group called Green Ship. Although still mourning her friend's death, Tomoe has no reservations about embracing a relationship with the group's leader, Kazusa. Soon she discovers Green Ship is a front for an assassin training camp. She must flee her new life and love and rekindle her fiery spirit in order to fight against the organization which wants her dead.Skater vs assassins epic battle! Synopsis is too ridiculous already, scene of skater getting away from cars while being showered by hundreds of bullets can only irritate me. All the shoujo suspense thing does not help, either. If you are ok with that, it can be a good action with some mystery. If not, it remains one more trashy average action.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Tsuki ga Noboru made ni月がのぼるまでに [OB Planning, Grouper Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaA father and daughter in Japan climb to the top of a ridge to watch the moonrise. As they wail, an old man tells them his story. An adaptation of Tetsuya Takeda's story about the relationship between a Japanese child and an American soldier.Wonder why it's a story about telling a story? Because length is slightly over 40 minutes, and it would be even less without. I struggle to remember a single war-themed anime with Americans are portrayed normally, so such anime is helpful in this regard. It's especially funny how all Americans have demon faces as if wearing oni masks from the start, but it changes overtime. There's not enough material or complexity to be treated seriously, but it's enough to be called a decent one.Overall Rating: 6/1022.Otohime ConnectionPrincess Connection 乙姫CONNECTION [Production I.G, animate Film] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoDrama, Mystery, Romance, Slice of LifeSpecial based on the manga by Ooya Kazumi, published in Betsukomi Flower Comics.An all-male pop group doubles as a detective agency. The cute girl member of the agency is kidnapped when one of the men's past returns to trouble them all in the present.Cute boys from pop group fight over one girl with bad guys... cute boys win, the end. This is the very essence of averageness in my view.Overall Rating: 5/1023.Gekkou no Pierce: Yumemi to Gin no Bara no KishidanMoonlight Pierce 月光のピアス―ユメミと銀のバラ騎士団[Pierrot] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoFantasy, Mystery, RomanceBecause of a mysterious earring, Yumemi a young japanese student, becomes involved in a mysterious story. She must go to Germany, where she learns that the spirit of an evil prince is haunting her earring...Another kind girl with loose hair interacts with a lot of cute guys and deals with their problems and opposes evil prince spirit in a castle. So many banalities in one place that I might explode. A new challenger for the title of the most average shoujo ever.Overall Rating: 5/1024.Inferious Wakusei Senshi Gaiden Condition Greenインフェリウス惑星戦史外伝 CONDITION GREEN [Hero Communication] (Finished 6/6)Tags:Action, Sci-FiKeith, George, Edward, Yang and Shaw are Platoon #801, the five-man team formed to protect their homeworld in the Inferious galaxy from alien invasion. Gazaria's evil emperor Vince conquers the neighbor worlds of Kal and Granad, and suddenly only Platoon #801, also known as Condition Green, stands between him and the conquest of Emerald Earth.Military defending from spacecrafts is a rare sight in anime, but there has been rather similarin concept Gall Force: Earth Chapter. Its main problem is that is starts down to Earth and progresses as more and more space chaotic random weird stuff .Overall Rating: 5/1025.Ore no Sora Keiji-hen俺の空刑事篇 [APPP] (Finished 2/2)Tags:DetectiveAction, DramaYasuda Ippei (Shonozaki Ken) is the son of Yasuda Seijiro (Osugi Ren), the head of Yasuda Group, Japan's biggest business conglomerate. Although he is the son of a distinguished family, he has absolutely no disagreeable areas and is liked by everyone.His academic achievements are exceptional. He completed his entire high school programme in 2 years and qualified for Tokyo University's Faculty of Law without studying for the exams. In order to establish his own concept of justice, Yasuda leaves his position as the heir to the Yasuda Group to attend the police academy. He becomes a detective at Kyobashi Police Precinct and bravely faces great evil.Not translated. Looked like a pretty ordinary detective to me.Overall Rating: 5/1026.Nyuuin Bokki Monogatari: Odaijini!入院ボッキ物語おだいじに! [Tokyo Kids] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenComedy, EcchiYamashita and Negishi end up in the hospital with broken legs and arms. It's summer vacation and they are very bored, so they start picking on the cute nurse Miyuki.Ecchi (even hentai) is the focus , so story does not have individual value.Overall Rating: 4/1027.Ucchare Goshogawaraうっちゃれ五所瓦 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 0/1)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, SchoolSportsMusashi Mountain High School third grade Goshogawara is the only member of his school's sumo club. In order to take part in competitions, he tries to attract more members, and thanks to his enthusiasm and sincerity four more people join the club: judo team captain Kaoru Kiyokawa; pro wrestler Takayuki Kannai; skinny thug wannabe Nanno Ippei; and Raiden Goro, a giant guy but a very shy person who also happens to be an expert Go player. The five train together and later take part in a competition against a professional sumo club.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1028.Jingi仁義 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Detective, Organized CrimeAdventure, DramaIn a case of mistaken identity, a low-level gangster shoots an innocent man, thinking he's a rival crime boss. Realizing his mistake, he nurses the man to health. When he learns his victim is a former banker who lost his job and is disillusioned with "the system", they decide to partner up and get rich running a stock investment scam. The rival boss is still around, however, and the pair's sudden success attracts his attention.Not translated. Second anime related to stock exchange, it must have enjoyed a real boom back then. There's a big focus on H, women and children, so it's not just violence or detective. Resembles former yakuza shows, but with proper suits instead of flashy loose yakuza outfits. Don't know what to say - only average.Overall Rating: 5/1029.Choubakumatsu Shounen Seiki Takamaru超幕末少年世紀タカマル [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Action, Comedy, FantasyThis is a tale of friendship and courage set in the world of the Champion Kingdom, an imaginary island whose inhabitants follow a traditional samurai lifestyle.Not translated. Another Dragon Ball imitator, but surprisingly funny and absurdist comedy with fighting.Overall Rating: 6/1030.Miracle Psychicer Seizanミラクル・サイキッカーセイザン [Pierrot] (Finished 0/5)Tags:Action, Adventure, Fantasy-Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1031.Ranma ½: Chuugoku Nekonron Daikessen! Okite Yaburi no Gekitou-hen!!Ranma ½: Big Trouble in Nekonron, Chinaらんま 1/2 中国寝崑崙大決戦! 掟やぶりの激闘編!! [Studio Deen] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMagical Sex Shift Adventure, ComedyAll is well at the Tendo residence when from out of nowhere, a Chinese girl named Lychee appears, seeking revenge on Happosai for a broken promise made since her birth. Things get worse when Kirin and the Seven Lucky Gods appear and abduct Akane to take as his wife. Ranma and the gang must travel to Nekonron, China, and save Akane from getting married to Kirin.I felt like I was watching Urusei Yatsura Movie 7, really, due to the constant spree of running and fighting. Moreover, Ranma usually plays as male and there is a sort of tomboy heroine resembling Lum . It looks like smaller episode can focus on humor and transformation , but when it comes to longer stories it does not go that far fromUrusei Yatsura, feels tiresome .Overall Rating: 5/1032.Adachi-ga Hara安達が原 [Tezuka Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Sci-FiThis is a story of an astronaut who is sent to a penal colony planet, and there meets an old woman who shows him the truth of life and love. Originally a short Manga in "The Lion Books," it was made into an animated series. The chief character, Jess, fights to bring down the dictator of the federation of the Earth and other planets, but is arrested by the federal authorities and sent to a penal colony planet. The story focuses on him, using Japanese Noh drama "Kurozuka" as a motif.A nice little story with space tyranny and cannibalism, but it's only 30 minutes, so there's a top score it can't surpass.Overall Rating: 6/1033.Bakabon Osomatsu no Karee wo Tazunete Sansenriバカボン・おそ松のカレーをたずねて三千里 [Pierrot] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy-It's a crossover of normal genius Bakabon with Heisei Bakabon in Heisei era... Well, it's one loosely connected story, but first two 10-minute parts can be treated as separate ones. Everything is well known and expected here, lot of absurd gags with some mythology characters like Son Goku.Overall Rating: 6/10

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Anime of the Year 1991-III Summer - Roujin Z

By kivandopulus, September 17, 2022

Anime of the Year

The first masterpiece in 1991 isRoujin Z1.Oniisama e...Dear Brotherおにいさまへ… [Tezuka Productions] (Finished 39/39)Tags:ShoujoPsychological, SchoolDrama, Girls LoveWhen 16-year-old Nanako Misonoo enters the prestigious all-girls Seiran Academy, she believes a bright future awaits her. Instead, the unlucky girl finds herself dragged into a web of deceit, misery, and jealousy. On top of that, she is chosen as the newest inductee of the Sorority, an elite group whose members are the envy of the entire school. Having none of the grace, wealth, or talent of the other members, Nanako quickly draws the ire of her jealous classmates—especially the fierce Aya Misaki.To cope with her increasingly difficult school life, Nanako recalls her days through letters to her former teacher, Takehiko Henmi, whom she affectionately calls "onii-sama" (big brother). She also finds comfort with her four closest friends: her childhood friend Tomoko Arikura, the sociable but erratic Mariko Shinobu, the troubled musician Rei Asaka, and the athletic tomboy Kaoru Orihara.An impassioned drama about the hardships of bullying, Oniisama e... chronicles a young girl's harsh life at her new school, as she endures cruel rumours, heartless classmates, and countless social trials.Tezuka Productions is the first great anime studio, and this is its first work that's not a remake after creator passing, so I'm approaching it with heavy heart. I had to watch the series in full in order to be able to criticize it. First of all, I understand that there was still lack of ideas in early 1990s, so manga from 1970s is used here, and manga seems to be paired up with Attack o Nerae since first episode reminds it so bad, especially with the similar designs used in both anime for protagonist, Ms. Butterfly and main rival girl who did not get accepted. This manga was top notch in the 1970 and it is still a rather complex and emotional one. Moreover, Tezuka Productions handled it perfectly with great graphics, character designs and still manga shots - it's aesthetic pleasure. I tried to associate myself with the girl who plays male functions Kaoru Orihara, but she got severe chest pains, so I felt like she's going to fall out eventually. Then I tried to treat the whole snake pit of a high school as battle royale due to so many psycho and physically ill characters, but even halfway through no one got out - after all, there are only like five main characters with the need to last for 39 episodes. My main grudge about the anime is that it's emotional, but not intellectual . Protagonist is a kind simpleton who is unable to act. As a result we get totally convenient resolutions out of the blue, like the one with Mariko girl. Appeal to emotions in prejudice of reason is a dangerous way to go as it can be used for malice like revisionist neonazi movements do. Anyway, I felt bored after first ten episodes and almost to the end, so I definitely could not enjoy it .Overall Rating: 6/102.Otaku no Videoおたくのビデオ [Gainax] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Historical, Mecha, Otaku CultureComedy, Drama, Sci-FiSomewhat based on the real story of how Gainax was founded, Otaku no Video addresses all aspects of an otaku lifestyle. Ken Kubo is a young man living an average life until he is dragged into a group of otaku. Slowly, he becomes more like them until he decides to abandon his former life to become king of otaku—the otaking!Mixed in are live-action interviews with real otaku, addressing every aspect of hardcore otaku life. Not only are anime and manga fans included, but also sci-fi fans, military fans, and other groups of Japanese geeks.It's done as anime with several live action interviews and statistic splits which are obsolete now, of course. A nice nostalgic anime explaining Gainax spirit, but there's no value in it besides the funny interviews.Overall Rating: 6/103.3x3 Eyes [Toei Animation] (Finished 4/4)Tags:Gore, MythologyAction, Fantasy, Horror, Romance3X3 Eyes is the story of a young man named Yakumo Fuuji, who through a strange series of events becomes the immortal slave of the last of a race of 3 Eyed demons. The demon absorbs his soul to save his life, making him immortal in the process. Now, he begins a journey with the female demon in an attempt to find a way of becoming human. Of course, there are many complications along the way, not the least of which being that the demon is a female with a split personality, one achingly cute and the other being no-nonsense destructive power, and the romances that develop between.Video quality is too bad to enjoy it visually or as action. Plot-wise it's so-so, but it's the first example of protagonist constantly getting killed and revived.Overall Rating: 5/104.Arslan SenkiThe Heroic Legend of Arslanアルスラーン戦記 [animate Film, Aubec] (Finished 6/6)Tags:HistoricalAction, Adventure, Drama, FantasyIn the medieval kingdom of Pars, young Prince Arslan confronts the hostility of his father and the disinterest of his mother, and yearns to learn more about the world. Despite being surrounded by poverty and slavery, Arslan persists in seeing the possibility of a nobler world. Everything changes when the neighboring nation of Lusitania invades Pars, and Arslan is forced to grow up in an instant.Arslan Senki follows Prince Arslan to war, where he struggles to save his nation and family with the help of a small but devoted circle of advisers. Along the way the young prince finds secrets around every corner and faces enemies who hate him because of what he is, but also finds friends where he least expects them. The story of nations at war, Arslan Senki is also the story of one boy's quest to stay himself in the most trying of circumstances.Never found remake exciting, especially compared to Kingdom. This OVA looks even more disjointed, best comparison is probably Legend of Galactic heroes as there is a complex world with many factions and some likeable characters, but overall it's monotonous dialogues with rare action spikes, and of course ending is open in best traditions. Above average, but still lacking.Overall Rating: 6/105.Teito MonogatariDoomed Megalopolis帝都物語 [Madhouse] (Finished 4/4)Tags:HistoricalHorror, SupernaturalWhen an evil sorcerer bent on crushing the "greatest city on earth" uses dark powers to awaken the destructive spirit of Tokyo's historic "guardian," Taira no Masakado, occultists, children, and scientists become embroiled in a ruinous struggle spanning two decades.Long things short, it's disgusting. Black liquid covering whole body and filling mouth and nose is just the start, soon after a huge caterpillar is crawling from girl's mouth... things like that and more. It tests tolerance to abominable on so many levels. I'd not recommend this anime for anyone who can not stand Maggot Baits or the like, especially because story is not impressive and remains incomplete.Overall Rating: 4/106.Ningyo no Mori人魚の森 [Pastel] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, Fantasy, Horror, MysteryIt is said that consuming the flesh of a mermaid confers immortality. This certainly proved to be the case for the 500-year-old Yuta and his friend Mana. However, most people who try to become immortal either die or transform into monsters.Fifty-five years ago, Towa Kannagi was given mermaid blood by her sister, Sawa, in order to cure a fatal illness. Now, Towa maintains her youthful appearance, save her white hair and beastly arm. For years she has dreamed of restoring her body, resorting to blood transfusions from youthful corpses aided by the local doctor, Shiina.Mana, mistaken for dead by Shiina, is brought in to have her blood used by Towa. When she discovers that Mana is alive, what lengths will Towa go to in order to restore herself? Will Yuta be able to save Mana in time?Felt pretty average to me, even among horrors. What's the point in seeing hunt for mermaid flesh without good characters or well told story. Also disgusted me as there's a lot of blood and cutting limbs while alive in here.Overall Rating: 5/107.Detonator Orgunデトネイター・オーガン [AIC, Artmic] (Finished 3/3)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiFleeing from his own race, Orgun—an alien being with superhuman abilities and unearthly weapons—travels to Earth to find an answer to his origin. There, he bonds with a young man named Tomoru to defend Earth against the Evoluders, who seek nothing but destruction of other civilizations.I bit unusual setting, but in the end it's just one episode for introduction, one episode for hesitation and one episode for repelling aliens, nothing more.Overall Rating: 5/108.Kekkou Kamenけっこう仮面 [Bee Media, Studio Signal] (Finished 4/4)Tags:Comedy, EcchiAt the academy Miami Takashi attends, higher education has sunk to the lowest levels of depravity, with armed hall monitors, teachers who wear masks to hide their identities and special detention sessions in a torture chamber beneath the gym! It's a curriculum designed to chew up sweet young things, and poor Miami's been voted "Least Likely to Survive" in her class! Is there no hope? Can no one save her? Enter Kekko Kamen, the most outrageous superheroine ever! Clad in a red mask, red boots and nothing else, she is the supreme protector of innocents like Miami. Armed with her trusty nunchaku and a body that just won't quit, she'll make chopped pork out of the swine who run this school from hell! But who is she really? The only one who knows for sure is creator Go Nagai and he's not giving anything away... except lots of free peeks at Kekko Kamen's magnificent physique!Comedy that aims to provoke viewer with as much shocking stuff as possible, including swastika, fully naked battles, s/m focus , homosexuality and just weird moves like fighting by jumping only at students heads. Humor is really great whether it's spikes of embarrassment in the middle of heroic speech or battles won without a single hit only by bodybuilding showcase. Still, each episode contains two 10-minute stories of episodic nature, so it lacks actual story and properly developed characters to aim for a masterpiece.Overall Rating: 6/109.Ozanari Dungeon: Kaze no Touおざなりダンジョン風の塔 [Telecom Animation Film] (Finished 3/3)Tags:Action, Adventure, Comedy, FantasyThe king of the Tower of Wind seeks the power of the legendary Dragon's Head, and employs the fighter Moka, the thief Buruman, and the magic user Kiriman to steal it for him. But the Dragon's Head is sealed in the Temple of Fire, and to capture it Moka will have to face the sect that has protected it generation after generation!Story is simple and with Dragon Quest/Wataru feel, but characters and humor make it above average even though ending is lackluster.Overall Rating: 0/1010.Tenkuu Senki Shurato: Sousei e no Anto天空戦記シュラト　創世への暗闘 [Tatsunoko Production] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenAction, FantasyThis is the continuation of the TV series. The battle for the celestial sphere is over. Gai and Shurato have been erased from history. However, another danger is coming ahead, and the eight guardians are sent back to Earth to investigate. As Shurato tries to win back his friends in a world that has forgotten him, a new villain has a mysterious plan for them.For those who liked original, naturally.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Exper Zenonエクスパーゼノン [Studio Fantasia] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Sci-FiHiroshi Zenno is an average high school student whose only talent lies in arcade games. One day, after setting a new high score of over nine hundred million in his favorite game, he happens upon an advertisement for a new game called "Expers." The game promises both amazing gameplay and a chance of winning the affection of the beautiful Princess Atover, so Hiroshi signs up to play.The next day, Hiroshi is at school when a mysterious capsule crashes into his classroom, within it containing Princess Atover herself! She gives Hiroshi a powered suit that grants enhanced abilities and tells him that he is the main character of a video game, naming him "Zenon." Unfortunately, in order to win, Hiroshi must defeat all of his opponents—other players with a desire to become the "main character" of the game. Will Hiroshi be able to survive this deadly game and uncover its true nature?The originator of the girl suddenly show up at boy's room is Majo demo Steady, but Exper Zenon seems to be the first one who linked that to granting superpowers. So, girl comes to nerd and grants superpowers , some fighting , the end. Waste of time, as expected.Overall Rating: 4/1012.Asatte DanceDance Till TomorrowあさってDance [Knack Productions] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenComedy, Drama, Romance, EcchiSuekichi goes to university and has, as any Japanese university student, time for hobbies. Things change when he attends his great grandfather's funeral and wakes the next morning in his room with a very sexy girl besides him. His great grandfather has left him a *little* inheritance but there are some conditions. Meanwhile, sexy Aya keeps hanging around and refuses to go away. The beginning of a strange relationship which revolves around suspicions and desire.Not translated. Woman first plays as constantly H hungry nuisance and becomes more and more like a helper/contributor. Not good enough.Overall Rating: 4/1013.Choujin Locke: Shinsekai Sentai超人ロック新世界戦隊 [Nippon Animation] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Super PowerAction, Sci-FiAzalea has been residing on the Colony-Planet of Dinahl, and she can't recall anything about herself until she hears a voice calling her name.Then there is another voice summoning her to go to a park on top of a skyscraper. Once she arrives there, she meets up with other people who also have no recollection of who they are or what they were doing before arriving at this destination as instructed by the voice.All the people assembled there possess superhuman powers, such as Eno's psychic power, Umoth's x-ray vision, Neia's teleportation powers, Azalea's telepathy, and Locke's electrical wizardry.Who has summoned them, and what will the five super-psychics confront?Even all the former seriousness is gone now. Five espers are now under hypnosis and need to rob a casino or something to get their memories back. Just laughable where it all came to. Now can't recommend it.Overall Rating: 4/1014.NG Knight Ramune & 40 EX: Biku Biku Triangle Ai no Arashi DaisakusenNG騎士ラムネ&40EX ビクビクトライアングル愛の嵐大作戦 [Production Reed] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenMechaAdventure, Comedy, FantasyLamune has returned to Earth with no memory of his adventures on Hara-Hara world and Doki-Doki space. The remains of Gobuhriki find their way to Earth, and awaken the spirit of Don Harumage. While Cocoa builds a fighting vehicle with stuff she finds around Tokyo, Milk and Leska set off to find Lamune and Da Cider to save the day before the new Gobuhriki is revived and destroys the Earth.Silly continuation, sometimes fun.Overall Rating: 5/1015.Izumo[イズモ] [Studio Hibari, Grouper Productions] (Finished 2/2)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, FantasyA historical fantasy set in third century (i.e., mythical) Japan. It tells the story of Izumo, the young prince of Nakatsukuni. He's not very interested in studying, unlike his cousin Dekiru; instead, he wants to see the wider world. One day, a mysterious girl named Sanae shows up as a stowaway on an airship. Although nominally from Yamataikoku, she is actually from the Naga, a shadowy people possessing magical powers. Sanae is kidnapped by Takeru, a warrior from the rival kingdom of Akusa, and placed at the mercy of the evil witch Yomihime. Izumo, helped by an orphaned glider pilot named Navi, must now take up the sacred sword of his country, master its powers, and rescue Sanae. However, before that, he must defeat the reawakened eight-headed snake of legend, Yamata-no-Orochi.It does not go far from generic fantasy stories, but adds Japanese mythology. Another distinguishing feature is that it does not try to imitate Dragon Ball and play in parody or gag comedy - it's mostly serious. As for story itself, felt boring.Overall Rating: 5/1016.Yuukan Club有閑倶楽部 [Madhouse] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoSchoolComedy, MysterySt. President school is one of the most wealthy schools around. Everybody in that school respects the Yukan club, the most popular and richest group in the school. This includes Shouchikubai Miroku, Kenbishi Yuuri, Kikumasamune Seishirou, Hakushika Noriko and Kizakura Karen. They go through dangerous adventures to save their school, and of course, just to kill their spare time.Light comedy with trashy silly humor. With under 70 minutes total length it just throws in gags without trying to keep things integral, thus average .Overall Rating: 5/1017.Licca-chan Fushigi na Mahou no RingLicca: Mysterious Magical Ringリカちゃん　ふしぎな魔法のリング [Ajia-Do] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Adventure, FantasySecond part in the OVA series that was later adapted into a TV show in 1998.I have not heard of its prequel. Know why? Because prequel is correctly marked as for kids... while sequel is not. Watching it only affirms the statement.Overall Rating: 4/1018.Hoshikuzu Paradise星くずパラダイス [Pastel] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, RomanceAfter his mother passed away, high school student Hiroshi Houshou's long lost father suddenly reappears, along with two new family members: a new mother who is also a famous actress, and her daughter, the popular and beautiful idol singer Rina Yuuki.There have been a lot of idol stories from girl point of view, changing perspective is a nice variation. I hope it does not need to be said that a huge part of 40 minutes is wasted on fanservice and jokes around it.Overall Rating: 5/1019.Meisou-Ou Border迷走王ボーダー [Artland] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAdventureFeaturing a modern-day odd couple, the naive virgin Kubota and the handsome charmer Hachisuka, who meet up by accident in a Middle Eastern desert and return to Japan to hustle their way through life. They start by getting involved in shady TV dealings, where they get jobs making fake docmentaries.A bit more than half is shady job of being yakuza victims in fake documentary, the rest is getting back to Tokyo after bailing out of this dangerous job, ending is literally after meeting new character and words that their adventures continue. Without continuation it's not recommended.Overall Rating: 4/1020.Kyoufu Shinbun恐怖新聞 [Pierrot] (Finished 0/2)Tags:ShounenHorrorFor reasons unknown to him, Rei receives the Kyoufu Shinbun every morning, a newspaper which foresees deaths and catastrophes...Based on Tsunoda Jirou's classic horror manga "Kyoufu Shinbun", serialized in Weekly Shounen Champion.Not translated. There's not much sense in watching horror without translation if there a remake that came in 2014, evaluation should wait till then.Overall Rating: 0/1021.Yokohama Meibutsu: Otoko Katayama-gumi!横浜名物：男片山組！ [-] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenDelinquents, SchoolActionThe city of Yokohama has become a lawless district for biker gangs. One particular gang, the "Crazy Babies", have a 17 year old leader called Hiromi Katayama that is famous throughout the entire Kanagawa alliance as being a strong fighter with a devout sense of morality. However, when a young rookie by the name of Toshi Ikeda wants in, he swears to Katayama that he will uphold the ideals of the Crazy Babies and vows to not fight with anybody for his first probationary month within the gang or else forfeit his chance to join the gang.Ikeda being the fiery young man he is, soon finds himself caught in the middle of a fight and unintentionally sparks off a feud between the gangs of Kanagawa and the dangerous Nagoya based group, The Dragon Star Crew, who have their eye on taking the whole of Kanto.Can Katayama defend Yokohama from the encroaching hoodlums?First half is protagonist initiation into a biker gang with principles and having a biker war an anarchic gang. Second half is about a well planned ambush gang war with a new faction. Can't say it's bad, but without humor it loses to Shounan Bakusouzoku.Overall Rating: 6/1022.Money Wars: Nerawareta Waterfront Keikakuマネーウォーズ狙われたウォーターフロント計画 [Gainax] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenA new waterfront area is being built in Tokyo, and Chinese mafia man Lin Haifeng wants to gain control of it by owning the majority stock of the company in charge of construction. Lin's plan is to use the waterfront as a gateway for the Chinese mafia in an attempt to turn Tokyo into a "New Hong Kong". After his friend Kurihara commits suicide after unknowingly helping Lin get a hold of some stocks, his friend Tsuyoshi Aiba aims to avenge his friend by keeping Lin from taking over the waterfront.Not translated. Protagonist's friend is forced into bankruptcy and committing suicide, so protagonist devises a payback scheme with stock exchange. At least it's logical and half-decent.Overall Rating: 6/1023.Ushiro no Hyakutarou心霊恐怖レポートうしろの百太郎[-] (Finished 0/2)Tags:SchoolHorror, SupernaturalHorror OVA based on the manga by Jirou Tsunoda. The title roughly means "Hyakutarou behind".A boy named Ichitarou Ushiro deals with various horrifying phenomena with the help of his guardian spirit Hyakutarou.2 episodes: "Kokkuri Satsujin Jiken", "Yuutai Ridatsu".Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1024.Naki no Ryuu: Hiryuu no Shou (1991)哭きの竜飛竜之章 [Gainax, Toshiba EMI] (Finished 0/1)Tags:SeinenOrganized Crime, Strategy GameDramaAn OVA released in 1991. Unlike the previous OVA series, this episode was produced separately by Toshiba.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1025.Ishii Hisaichi no Dai Seikaiいしいひさいちの大政界 [-] (Finished 0/1)Tags:ParodyComedyBased the same name gag manga by Hisaichi Ishii.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1026.Omoide PoroporoOnly Yesterdayおもひでぽろぽろ [Studio Ghibli] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, Romance, Slice of LifeTaeko Okajima is a 27-year-old, independent woman who spent her entire life in Tokyo. Looking to unwind from the rush of the big city, she decides to visit her family in the country to help out during the harvest.On the train there, Taeko vividly recalls her memories as a schoolgirl in the initial stages of puberty, as if she is on a trip with her childhood self. A young farmer named Toshio picks her up at the station, and they quickly develop a friendship. During her stay, Taeko forms strong bonds with family and friends, learning the contrasts between urban and rural life, as well as the struggles and joys of farming.Nostalgic and bittersweet, Omoide Poroporo takes on Taeko's journey as an adult woman coming to terms with her childhood dreams compared to the person she is today.Watched it so long ago that nothing but countryside left in memory. Truth be told, there are better anime about countryside romanticism - Silver Spoon comes to mind. There are enough of grim moments like dad constantly grumble and occasionally hit his daughter. The best scenes are actually those that break from reality, like running turning into flying. As I see it , movie failed to tell a normal story, so it just pushed with nostalgy and only bothered making one last scene memorable and tearjerker. Not cool, at all. And of course I won't be able to recall much of it in half a year. It's my evaluation, and I could not enjoy it.Overall Rating: 6/1027.Roujin Z老人Ｚ [APPP] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha Comedy, Drama, Sci-FiThe Z Project was intended to give the new generation a break from caring for the old. The original intenion was to create a machine to care for them without any intervention. At first glance, it looked like an excellent plan, and many of the younger generation approved of its application. But when old Mr. Takazawa become the test subject for the Z-001 machine, Haruko questioned both the tactics of the hospital and the moral implications of the machine. This is just the beginning, as Haruko has not just the hospital, but the odds against her. But then, she discovers an odd quirk about the machine: it uses a biochip, and it eventually acquires a mind of its own!Wow, it's super lively and well done, at times it reminded me of Akira so much, especially in recollection of his mechanical arm from metal scrap. The story itself is not something breakthrough and characters are rather simple, but nursery bed transformer mecha is really memorable. I recommend to watch this movie if you liked Akira.Overall Rating: 7/1028.Urusei Yatsura Movie 6: Itsudatte My DarlingUrusei Yatsura Movie 6: Always My Darlingうる星やつらいつだって・マイ・ダーリン [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sci-FiLupica, another one of the legion of space princesses that all seem to have found out about Earth in some tour book, appears and abducts Ataru!But Lupica isn't after Ataru for his great looks or charming personality (because he doesn't have either). Lupica's goal is the greatest love potion in the galaxy, which she intends to use to induce her sweetheart to tie the knot. To get it, she needs the possessor of the greatest lust in the universe...All the usual stuff, half of the movie is getting love potion, second half is getting rid of love potion effects. And issuing a new movie after Finale is a ripoff.Overall Rating: 5/1029.Silent Möbius: The Motion Pictureサイレントメビウス／THE MOTION PICTURE [AIC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Sci-Fi, SupernaturalIn a futuristic Tokyo, several policewomen fight a monster. One of them, Katsumi Liqueur, remembers where she saw it before... Katsumi Liqueur, an American-born woman of Japanese descent, travels to Tokyo to visit her mother, Fuyuka, who is sick in the hospital. She takes a shortcut through an alley after her taxi gets stuck in traffic, only to encounter a monster and two policewomen fighting it. Later, she meets their chief, Rally Cheyenne, who, it seems, has been expecting her, though Katsumi has never met her before. The policewomen want Katsumi to help them fight the monster, but Katsumi, who does not want to believe in magic, resists.This movie feels like introduction as city with monsters and protagonist who acquires power are introduced, and that's it - atmospheric, but lacks substance.Overall Rating: 6/1030.Ziggy: Soreyuke! R&R BandZIGGY それゆけ!R&R BAND [Studio Deen] (Finished 1/1)Tags:MusicAdventure, MysteryJapanese rock band Ziggy comes to London and gets attacked upon arrival at the hotel after a recording session. The musicians barely escape the attack; however, soon they learn that their producer has been murdered, and they are the suspects! Chased by police and some mysterious organization, they find shelter at a local rockers' place and even give a performance there; but it is not too long before their pursuers appear again.Armless rock-n-rollers from 80s against armed to teeth law enforcement and intelligence. Sooo cringy. . Just imagine - after battle action scene suddenly rock songs begins. And know why band was pursued ? To play brainwashing rock... Argh, so bad.Overall Rating: 4/1031.Huckleberry no Bouken (Movie)ハックルベリィの冒険 [Group TAC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Historical Adventure, DramaMovie version of the TV series Huckleberry no Bouken.Just reedit of old series, even same dated quality. Good to know the ending, but it was not impressive.Overall Rating: 5/10

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Anime of the Year 1991-II Spring - Honoo no Tenkousei

By kivandopulus, September 15, 2022

Anime of the Year

I managed to criticize everything again too much, but among decent works I'd highlightHonoo no Tenkouseias both memorable and amusing1.City Hunter '91シティーハンター'91[Sunrise] (Finished 13/13)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, MysteryRyo Saeba is back as the City Hunter, a "sweeper" (private detective) working on the streets of Tokyo. He and sidekick Kaori Makimura are hired to solve the problems of desperate people. When Ryo is not using his sharp shooting skills against bad guys, he's aiming his sites on pretty ladies. Kaori uses a giant anti-ecchi hammer to make sure he behaves.It does not really get better. The only thing that stands out is many beautiful women which is a rarity in anime due to abundance of girls. Concept is same poor, and action elements aren't fascinating.Overall Rating: 6/102.Future GPX Cyber Formula新世紀ＧＰＸサイバーフォーミュラ [Sunrise] (Finished 3/37)Tags:ShounenRacingAdventure, Sci-Fi14-year-old Kazami Hayato is the youngest driver of Cyber Formula, a Grand Prix in which each vehicle is equipped with computers to aid in racing. With the help of Asurada, the most advanced cybernavigation system, and team Sugo, Hayato races to become the winner of the 10th Cyber Formula Grand Prix. Along the way, Hayato will have to learn what it truly means to be a racer and that victory cannot be achieved simply by driving the best machine. In addition, Kazami will have to gain the respect of the veteran racers, thwart those who attempt to steal Asurada, and participate in races outside of Cyber Formula.Sunrise is producing at least five anime series simultaneously, so seriously, don't expect a breakthrough. A total bore only suiting kids. The fact that series gets somewhat high scores is because racing anime used to be head on dumb by this moment, and Sunrise just dragged it to minimal level of acceptable quality. Also it aired in the West so spawns some nostalgy feelings. With flat characters like this it's pure averageness .Overall Rating: 5/103.Zettai Muteki Raijin-OhMatchless Raijin-Oh絶対無敵ライジンオー [Sunrise] (Finished 3/51)Tags:Mecha, SchoolAdventure, Sci-FiSuddenly, an evil empire, Jaaku, raids the Earth. But the light appears from the Earth, and fights against Jaaku. It is Raijin Oh operated by Eldran. Eldran has protected the earth since the ancient ages. But he was injured during the fight, and Raijin-Oh falls to the ground. On the other hand, Jaaku scatters their weapons, Aku-Darmer, all over the world.Meanwhile, in Youshou elementary school, they have extra lessons in the 3rd class of the 5th grade. Eldran leaves Raijin Medal to them and asks them to save the Earth for him, and then he disappeared. In this way, the Earth Defense Agency consisted of elementary students is founded.Sunrise is totally lost in self-repeats. As usual, there's some humor, but the level of nonsense is pitch high.Overall Rating: 5/104.Chiisana Obake: Acchi, Kocchi, Socchi小さなおばけアッチ・ソッチ・コッチ [Pierrot] (Finished 0/50)Tags:Comedy, SupernaturalThis is a heart-warming story with three little ghost called There, Here and Where. They are not scary like usual ghosts but pretty and mischievous like human children. Of course they sometimes surprise people by disappearing or flying, but they are loved as children's friends.Each episode consists of two stories.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/105.High School Mystery: Gakuen Nanafushigiハイスクールミステリー学園七不思議 [Studio Comet] (Finished 2/41)Tags:Horror, Mystery-Only two episodes are translated. As expected, just horror stories taking place at school. But within the genre it's above average.Overall Rating: 6/106.Kikou Keisatsu Metal Jack機甲警察メタルジャック[Sunrise] (Finished 3/37)Tags:Detective, MechaAction, Sci-FiTwenty years into the future, a city now called "Tokyo" has developed into one of the few world-class high-tech centers, "Tokyo City." The main character, Ken Kanzaki, is a young investigator assigned to the criminal investigation section of the Metropolital Police. He is one of the finest sharp shooters in the Police.One day, Ken is ordered to provide security for a party held by for "Zaizen Konzern," a world-class plutocracy.All of a sudden, spector robots appear and distrupt the party. Zaizen, a commander-in-chief, is killed and both Ken and Jun. Zaizen's son,are fatally injured by the robots. Two of the party's guests, an auto-racer, Ryo Aguri,and a wresler, Go Goda, also receive serious injuries. Three severely injured young men are operated upon by scientists from the Metropolitan Police. Several days later, a robot corp led by a mysterious organization called "Ido" appears in the floating-town of the Tokyo Bay. But the Police and the Army have no effective strategies to contain them.At that moment, three young men attired in mechanical suits enter. They are the very three young men, Ken, Ryo and Go, who have been turned into the cyborg investigators through the operation. They call themselves "Armored Police Metal Jacks". "Metal Jacks," dazzlingly switching from "Jack Suits" to "Jack Armors," completely demolish the robot corp and achieve victory, thus signals the beginning of the battle between the high-tech criminals and "Metal Jacks" with a futuristic "Tokyo City" in the background.Sunrise hits a new low. Low quality animation, standard sentai+mecha, absolutely silly enemies. Traditional not funny Sunrise humor only irritates. Painful to watch.Overall Rating: 4/107.21 Emon21エモン[Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 3/39)Tags:SpaceComedy, Sci-FiIn 2018 a young boy named 21 Emon dreams of becoming a space pilot and exploring space in general. He is the heir to a long line of hotel owners, which dates back to the founder of during the Tokugawa shogunate. Since the Earth has become a planet visited by tourists from all over the space, 21 Emon has to help out his family's business or they'll go bankrupt.Not translated. Same as old 21 Emon movie, humor is mostly based on differences of aliens culture. It's an easy source for additional episodes, but it does not make it interesting.Overall Rating: 5/108.Jankenmanジャンケンマン [TV Tokyo] (Finished 1/51)Tags:Super PowerAdventureThere is a small village called Janken Town. The hero Jankenman protects the village and defeats his adversaries by playing games of rock-paper-scissors with them. Meanwhile, the villain Osodashi Mask always tries to deceive others.Not translated. One episode is enough to understand that it's a show for kids.Overall Rating: 4/109.Shounen Ashibe (TV)少年アシベ [Life Work] (Finished 0/37)Tags:Comedy, Slice of LifeThe anime is based on the 4-panel comic strip drawn by Morishita Hiromi and published in Young Jump. The story describes the daily life of Ashibe (an elementary school boy) and his family and friends, including a pet white sea lion.Not translated. Gag series can hardly be enjoyed without subs. There's remake of the series in the future.Overall Rating: 0/1010.Oh! My KonbuOH!MYコンブ [TBS] (Finished 3/22)Tags:ShounenComedy, Gourmet, Slice of LifeFifth-grader Nabeyama Konbu is the son of a cook in a slice-of-life gourmet comedy that tries to add an element of adventure to slaving in the kitchen. Konbu helps his father solve problems in the world through the judicious use of seasonings, the right choice of menu, and the pleasing of fickle customers.Not translated. Third culinary show. This time with distinctive Dragon Ball feel for humor and character designs. Mister Ajikko at least felt serious, this one is a mere parody.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory機動戦士ガンダム0083 STARDUST MEMORY [Sunrise] (Finished 3/13)Tags:Mecha, Military, SpaceAdventure, Drama, Romance, Sci-FiIt is the year 0083 of the Universal Century. The rebellious Principality of Zeon has been defeated in the One Year War by the Earth Federation. However, a faction of Zeon remnants led by Aguille Delaz fled from the final battle, hiding themselves away. After three long years, they attempt to rise up once more, sending Delaz's ace pilot, Anavel Gato, to infiltrate a Federation research base to steal one of two secretly developed prototype Gundams along with its deadly nuclear warhead.Threatened by the rogue Gundam suit and seeking to retain peace, the Earth Federation mobilizes the newly developed Albion carrier to recover the stolen unit. Manned by the remaining test pilots, with rookie pilot Kou Uraki piloting the remaining prototype Gundam, the Albion and her crew are determined to stop Gato, retake the stolen Gundam, and prevent the Zeon remnants from starting another war.Gundam needs some serious focus on characters. Every time if feels inferior to Macross that came ten years ago.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Bubblegum Crashバブルガムクラッシュ [Artmic, Darts] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenAdult Cast, MechaAction, Adventure, Sci-FiThe saga of the Knight Sabers continues as the group tries to find out who or what is behind the recent string of robberies, murders, and Boomer malfunctions which are somehow related to the creation of an advanced artificial intelligence. Furthermore, it seems that the Knight Sabers may be breaking up.Wow, first use of 3D graphics spotted by me. Anyway, stories are similar to Bubblegum Crisis, but without recollections of events happened in supposed prequel. If watched as part of the franchise, it's confusing. But if watched as a separate work, can be rated higher.Overall Rating: 5/1013.RG Veda聖伝 [animate Film] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Adventure, Drama, FantasyThe fearsome warrior Taishaku-ten rebelled against the world-ruling gods three hundred years ago and began his own oppressive reign. His dominion remained unchecked for years—until one day, the blind prophet Kuyou prophesied that warriors known as the Six Stars and a child of the vanished race called Ashura would defeat Taishaku-ten.Ashura, marked by his pointed ears and golden eyes; Yasha-ou, a robust warrior; and four other Stars prepare to challenge Taishaku-ten. In order to do so, they must journey across tarnished landscapes and battle monstrous demons that have plagued the land. But as the wheels of fate turn, Ashura and Yasha-ou must find the sixth Star before it is too late.Never heard of manga or anything, but setting of corrupted world has a lot of potency. Just as with Madara, it's seen that a lot of effort is put into worldbuilding and characters, but all that is used poorly by rushing action events and skipping everything else on the way.Overall Rating: 4/1014.Honoo no Tenkousei炎の転校生 [Gainax] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenCombat Sports, Martial Arts, Parody, SchoolAction, Comedy, SportsTransfer student Takisawa Noboru quickly learns that all disputes at his new school are settled in the boxing ring. Now he finds himself in a series of showdowns with the local top dog, Ibuki Saburo, for the love and respect of the beautiful Yukari.It's so satisfying to watch all those delinquents and boxing anime ridiculed. Still, with overall length of 40 minutes and no character investment can't give it a masterpiece based on humor alone as it does not feel integral this way, but a great gust of fresh air still.Overall Rating: 6/1015.Sukeban DekaDelinquent Detectiveスケバン刑事 [SIDO LIMITED] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoDelinquents, Detective, SchoolAction, DramaHaving spent time at a juvenile corrections facility, teenage delinquent Saki Asamiya is given a chance to redeem herself and delay her mother's possible death sentence by working as an undercover cop. Armed with nothing but a special yo-yo, Saki's assignment is to return to her high school and investigate on the corruption and mysterious deaths among the students. But in order to find the answers to the condition of her school, she must confront the wealthy and powerful Mizuchi sisters, who moved in and have taken control after her previous expulsion.Concept is popular, because it's easy to stage as live action. Anime shine because of unreal plots, but usually can't complete with properly staged dorama. I don't see how this anime can contribute with this concept of school and around school battles. It becomes rather average action with strangely placed humor spikes.Overall Rating: 5/1016.Maison Ikkoku: Bangai-hen - Ikkokujima Nanpa Shimatsukiめぞん一刻番外編一刻島ナンパ始末記 [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAdult CastComedy, Drama, RomanceYotsuya and Ichinose are enjoying a hot afternoon when they recall the time that the tenants of Ikkoku-kan and Mitaka go off on a cruise to party hard aboard Mitaka's new boat; however, the boat falls apart, and everyone is shipwrecked on a deserted island. With everyone up to their usual antics and shenanigans, what can happen in such a desolate place?There was already fanservice OVA series. Just one more fanservice episode, as expected. Complete waste of time.Overall Rating: 4/1017.Abashiri Ikkaあばしり一家 [Pierrot] (Finished 4/4)Tags:ShounenAction, ComedyFor decades, the Abashiri family has been one of the most powerful and feared crime families in the world. Led by the frightening Daemon Abashiri, the family prepares to perform their final, greatest heist. As the family makes their assault on a large bank, Daemon reveals that his youngest child, Kikunosuke Abashiri, is actually the first daughter born to the family in 18 generations—which is why he wants to end their life of crime.Much to Kikunosuke's displeasure, her father has arranged for her to study at the elite Paradise Academy, hoping that the school will shape her into a proper lady. However, when she arrives, she finds that the place is even more brutal than the life of crime she just left! How does Kikunosuke intend to survive in a school full of teachers who are hell-bent on killing their students?Absurdist battle action trash comedy. Even when limbs are torn apart, a merry music is still playing - this kind of comedy. I'd add Ecchi tag here, because all its elements are present. Watchable average action comedy if you can turn off brain and just observe it all.Overall Rating: 5/1018.Yami no Shihosha JudgeJudge闇の司法官ジャッジ [J.C.Staff, animate] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenHorror, SupernaturalHoichiro Ohma works in an office. Everybody knows him as a silent, humble man. Even his girlfriend, Nanase, doesn't suspect that he could be something more, but he is. When a person dies as a victim of murder; when someone kills himself with a curse on his lips; when someone's death needs to be judged, he is there, for he is a Judge Of Darkness. Following the Laws Of Darkness, with a book made of human skin and an unusual parrot, he pronounces judgement over living criminals that would otherwise go free.Weird below average horror.Overall Rating: 4/1019.Slow Stepスローステップ [Pastel] (Finished 5/5)Tags:ShoujoSchoolComedy, Romance, Slice of Life, SportsBased on the Adachi manga of the same name. The story revolves around a romantic triangle formed by the girl Minatsu Nakazato, a young student and softball player; Shu Akiba, a schoolmate; and Naoto Kadomatsu, an up-and-coming boxer. In reality the three-way relationship is more like three-and-a-half, considering that Naoto is in love with Maria... actually Minatsu herself, who'd once disguised herself to escape some evildoers.Are you kidding me... first Nine, then Touch, Hiatari Ryoukou and now this one with same character designs and same love triangles and freaking baseball/similar sport each time. Characters feel even more immature and old-fashioned than ever. It's irritating on so many levels.Overall Rating: 5/1020.SouryuudenLegend of the Dragon Kings創竜伝 [Kitty Film Mitaka Studio] (Finished 12/12)Tags:Super PowerDrama, Mystery, SupernaturalThe four Ryudo brothers hold an ancient secret - they are descended from the dragons. They have the speed, strength and power of their legendary ancestors - and they're getting stronger. But when pushed to the limit, they become the terrifying, uncontrollable dragons of mythology. These powers have attracted the attention of some powerful enemies - shadowy organizations with unlimited resources and weapons who will stop at nothing to control the brothers.Well, I seriously dislike Chinese mythology with all its laughable focus on same symbols, sacral numbers and presumably epic creatures. We observe another epic battle of Dragon entity versus Bull entity. There are four elements and four cardinal points, so of course we need four protagonists. But we need as much symbolism as possible, so there should be four antagonists. Protagonists are all brothers, so antagonists must be all sisters. Because yin and yang - WAKARU? Freaking stupid and ridiculous, thus can't be treated seriously. The main problem is that true colors only are shown at the end. During the main course of event it's just some clashes of different brothers with monsters and bad guys with occasional shifts into dragons. When things are broken down to personal level there is a semblance of substance and mystery behind it all while in reality it's one huge fake that only feels energetic due to a large number of characters, our usual horizontal extension with no actual depth.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Capricornカプリコン[Aubec] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAdventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiIn the blink of an eye, high school student Taku Shimamura finds himself transported to the bizarre world of Slaffleaze, where intelligent creatures govern and the ruling class, led by the villainous Zolba, is plotting the invasion of the world they know as Capricorn, the Earth. Joining together with the oppressed Slaffleaze peasants, Taku must find a way to stop Zolba`s dark forces before the way to the unsuspecting Earth is opened. In order to do so, he must first gain the love and trust of the last of the Yappie, the ancestral guardians of Slaffeaze. This is a task that will take more than a little courage and daring, for the last Yappie is not just a cute young female, she`s also a dragon.Isekai with animal races. It's rather short, so there's only enough time for characters to bump into each other, learn the wicked plans, conveniently discover superpower out of the blue and win, of course.Overall Rating: 4/1022.Akai Hayate紅いハヤテ [Pierrot] (Finished 4/4)Tags:Martial Arts, Super PowerActionJapan is secretly controlled by a tyrannical group of ninjas called the Shinogara. Their finest assassin is a man named Hayate Kanuma, whose father leads the Shinogara.Hayate, however, knows that the secret society's control over Japan is wrong. Sacrificing his own safety, Hayate kills his father. Now he's on the run, safe almost nowhere from his vengeful former comrades except perhaps for the one hiding place he decides upon: his sister. After possibly being fatally wounded, Hayate is able to transfer his soul into his sister's body, temporarily sharing it with her. His sister, Shiori, can awaken Hayate and call upon his ninja abilities when the Shinogara are close at hand but each time she does so, a little more of her true self is lost. This arrangement can't possibly go on forever, so how will Hayate finally defeat the Shinogara?An ok action. Nothing of it is memorable though, so average.Overall Rating: 5/1023.The Gakuen Choujo-taiThe Chohjotaiザ・学園超女隊 [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoMythology, Super PowerActionAnime based on a 1986 novel.Yumi, a new student at the school, has four supernatural powers: prediction ability, telekinesis, levitation, and teleportation, but she is unable to use any of them at will. She organizes Chohjotai to uncover the true identity of school psychic research club.You can call me prejudiced against espers, but this this anime has no really outstanding traits.Overall Rating: 5/1024.Okama HakushoOkama Reportおカマ白書 [-] (Finished 3/3)Tags:SeinenCrossdressingComedyOkama is a man who has some problems. First off, his name means 'gay' in Japanese. Next, he has the hots for himself dressed as a girl. Finally, he ends up working at a transvestite bar where he has befriended a girl named Miki. This is not an easy matter to solve, because she only knows him as his female counterpart named Catherine. So how is a guy dressed as a girl supposed to come out to a girl as a heterosexual male? To make matters worse, she has a boyfriend who is trying everything in the book to get with her. Enter the exciting world of Okama Hakusho where love comes in many different flavors!Trap comedy. Everything is as usual - partying with girls with a boner, being molested by guys - very expected things like that. I never found anything fun in trap plots.Overall Rating: 5/1025.Sweet Spotスイートスポット [Group TAC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ComedyThese "amusing" adventures of a golf-crazy Office Lady were based on a manga from Weekly Spa! magazine by Yutsuko Chudoji.I usually dig corporate OL stuff, but this was rather tasteless.Overall Rating: 5/1026.Ippon Bouchou Mantarou一本包丁満太郎 [J.C.Staff, animate Film] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenGourmetBased on the manga by Big Joe (ビッグ錠).Wow, fourth culinary show already. Compared to predecessors it's not childish and not comedy-focused. But seriously - the first hamburger steak challenge is to cut 20 onions in 5 minutes and we waste like 10 minutes on it? Why is the whole focus in hamburger steak on onions? Baka-bakashi... So will real competition begin now? Nope, it's again speed challenge to prepare fish super fast... Is it formula 1 or something? Why two same dishes taste differently? You would not believe, but because one is more neatly shaped and looks better ... this is SO stupid. Ever tried eating petals? Too bad, because some raw fish covered with just petals wins over first class dish. Ever boiled noodles? I hope not , because there just one person in Osaka who can boil noodles just right. 10 more minutes are wasted to boil dozens of noodles each with one second step from each other...This is not a show about cooking. This is a show about weird entertainment, mythology and irrational psychology around cooking, worst "culinary" show I ever seen which is just unforgivable so many years after decent Mister Ajikko that raised the quality plank high enough.Overall Rating: 4/1027.Shizukanaru Don: Yakuza Side Story静かなるドン Yakuza Side Story [Tokyo Movie Shinsha] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenOrganized CrimeAction, Comedy, DramaThis manga depicts the life of Shizuya Kondou, a man who designs underwear by day and is "don" of a gang at night.Basically, it's all in the synopsis. Comedy with weird underwear designs and goofing around during daytime - black glasses coolness and bossing around at night. Comedy part is hardly outstanding, so...Overall Rating: 5/1028.Koha GinjiroTrusty Ginjiro硬派銀次郎 [Visual 80] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenSchoolAction, DramaAfter the death of his elder brother, Ginjiro Yamazaki appoints himself his parents' protector. After transferring to a new school, he gets into a lot of fights.Not translated. Parents and elder brother die in an accident, chibi Gen as he is called because of 142 cm height decides to become protector of his one year old nephew. He has his hands full with sports, studies, earning money by delivering newspapers and taking care of nephew, but a big hooligan threat won't wait till he has time for it. That's basically it. The only bright spot in this anime is female transfer student who takes care of Gen after seeing him in school carrying a nephew. Gen is cheerful, but can't say there is real humor. First episode is introductory, other two have some delinquents fights in the center. Can't call it all particularly interesting.Overall Rating: 5/1029.Dr. TyphoonDr.(ドク)タイフーン [-] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenDrama, SportsBased on a seinen manga written by Takahashi Michitsuna and illustrated by Kazama Eiji, serialised in Weekly Manga Action.Izumi Typhoon, the eponymous Dr. Typhoon, is a highly skilled golfer based in New-York. Being a perverted sleazebag who does not back off from receiving shady money, his life tends to be more messy than it should...Not translated. Slightly more funny golf due to harassments , but nothing big.Overall Rating: 4/1030.Asuka: Nihon no RekishiASUKA -日本の歴史- [-] (Finished 0/20)Tags: --Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1031.Fushigi no Umi no Nadia: Original MovieNadia: The Secret of Blue Water - The Motion Pictureふしぎの海のナディア劇場用オリジナル版 [Gainax, Group TAC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAction, Adventure, Drama, Mystery, Romance, Sci-FiThree years after the defeat of Gargoyle and Neo-Atlantis, a new threat has surfaced bent on bringing the world under his control. Geiger, using advanced robot technology, is attempting to begin a world war, and take control of the devastated world after the destruction has stopped. Once again, Nadia and Jean must fight to save the world, only this time from itself.I hoped it to be a recap movie... but not this kind of 25 minutes poorly justified recap with one hour of new half-assed adventure and only flat new characters introduced.Overall Rating: 4/1032.Michitekuru Toki no Mukou ni満ちてくる　時のむこうに [Pierrot] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Fantasy, RomanceBased on Suzuki Kouji's novel Paradise, which won the Japan Fantasy Novel Award in 1991.Prehistoric Mongolia. Bogd and his daughter Fayau, who love each other, live happily, but Fayau is abducted by the invaders, the northern tribes. Bogd, who has won the patronage of the best guardian spirit "Red Deer", tries to cross the ocean to regain his lover, but it does not come true. However, the spirits of the red deer promise that their love will meet again after a long time. During the Age of Discovery, as sailor Jones and island daughter Lyre, and as composer Leslie and editor Flora in modern Arizona, they feel the bond of love that has passed 10,000 years ...This anime is so full of all kind of superstitions that it makes me really sick. It turns out that Mongolians came because boy drew a girl's image bringing a curse. The way the sea created a pass for Mongolians to cross and flooded right before Bogd approached is such a huge Bible driven bs that I sincerely wanted to drop. Retelling the synopsis takes all the movie time with what's left only the way two spirits meet through time. A total disappointment.Overall Rating: 4/10

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Anime of the Year 1991-I Winter - Wizardry

By kivandopulus, September 13, 2022

Anime of the Year

Wow, I rated everything pretty low this season. Good opportunity to promote my beloved franchise withWizardry1.Trapp Ikka MonogatariThe Trapp Family Storyトラップ一家物語 [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/40)Tags:Childcare, Historical, MusicDrama, RomanceBased on the same story that produced the classic musical 'The Sound of Music', this is the story of Maria, who leaves her life in a convent to take up the responsibility of taking care of Captain Trapp's children.World masterpiece theater. If you can tolerate a series built around a musical... I could not for long.Overall Rating: 5/102.Taiyou no Yuusha FighbirdBrave of the Sun Fighbird太陽の勇者ファイバード [Sunrise] (Finished 3/48)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiAn evil alien life form, Dryus, assaulted the Earth. The leader of Space Patrol, Fighbird, pursed Dryus to the Earth. Fighbird combined with an android that Dr. Amano was developing. Fighbird named Hidori Ryutaro and fight against Dryus to protect the peace of the Earth.At first look, he was a normal person, but because he was an alien, Fibird, his acts were a bit away from the normal persons'. Usually, he worked for Dr. Amano as an assistant. He looked uncouth always wearing while coat and glasses. However, once enemy appears, his personality changed dramatically.Hardly anyone but Sunrise continues to release shounen mecha, so Sunrise mecha with dips into humor has become the average inside the genre. No breakthrough, as expected.Overall Rating: 5/103.Getter Robo Goゲッターロボ號 [Toei Animation] (Finished 3/50)Tags:ShounenMecha, MilitaryAction, AdventureA new Getter robot is piloted by three youth as they combat the evil terrors that plague the world.Reinstallment of series from 1970s and not done by Sunrise brings a lot of limitations... to the point that only a few episodes have subtitles. It can't be even considered average in 1990s.Overall Rating: 4/104.Kinkyuu Hasshin Saver KidsEmergency Departure Rescue Kids緊急発進セイバーキッズ [Tokyo Movie Shinsha] (Finished 0/50)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-FiMatsugorou is a vile doctor who plots out a plan to take over the world by commanding his own robotic army. The only chance the world has is a group of three brothers that make up a team called the Emergency Departure Saver Kids.Not translated. I can get the series with some effort, but there's zero chance I could like it, so I'd prefer to skip it entirely.Overall Rating: 0/105.Ore wa Chokkakuおれは直角 [Pierrot] (Finished 3/36)Tags:ComedyChokkaku Ishigaki leeds a cheerful student life at the prestigious Hagi Meirinkan institution and at home in the late Tokugawa period.Not translated. Just Edo period SOL about about a boy with comedy. ResemblesAkadou Suzunosuke anime the most. Above average, but without translation is doomed.Overall Rating: 6/106.Burn Up!バーンナップ [AIC] (Finished 1/1)Tags:DetectiveAction, Comedy, Sci-Fi, EcchiTo the unsuspecting eye Maki, Reimi and Yuka may not look like ace crime fighters, which might explain why they're stuck on traffic patrol instead of more "exciting" police duties.All that changes when Yuka gets herself kidnapped by a white slave organization run by a politically connected businessman who's got the rest of the police cowed.Now it's up to Maki and Reimi to don skin-tight battle armor, liberate a tank, and make sure that a certain slaver learns that when you play with fire, you're going to get your ass burned!Pretty average action. Guess this franchise is chosen for serialization just because there's freedom of actions with a new runner while Dirty Pair needs some standards and some stamp of quality to maintain. Feels like a below average Dirty Pair movie with cut humor. Overall Rating: 5/107.Soujuu Senshi Psychic WarsPsychic Wars捜獣戦士サイキック・ウォーズ [] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenMythology, Super Power, Time TravelActionUkyo Rettsu, a surgeon, treats a mysterous old woman for a mysterious "cancer." The growth turns out to be a messenger from the ancient past of Japan heralding a demonic invasion of the Earth. Ukyo must go back in time and fight the race of ancient demons.Esper wars is never a good choice, adding time slip usually makes things confusing. As a result we have a trashy action, one of the lowest rated anime ever.Overall Rating: 3/108.Wizardryウィザードリィ [TMS Entertainment] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, FantasyBased on the first Wizardry game "The Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord", a group of characters enter a dungeon to confront the ultimate wizard to prevent him from reaching an unstoppable power. On their way they meet up with a few new friends who have their own battles to settle, but their paths lay together.Watched it twice in the past already and loved it immensely, but I was playing Wizardry Online then, so might be subjective. Rewatching it now with a more critical outlook, and it looks more like a well done showcase of lore that old Wizardry games could provide, and it's not much, only enough for one OVA. Actually, can't give it a masterpiece status now. Basically, all difficult fights are won after spell of elven magician girl with some backstab move or something afterwards. Aesthetics is great, but substance is lacking, especially since I knew all lore about Verdna and world history beforehand.Overall Rating: 6/109.Mouryou Senki MadaraMadara魍魎戦記 MADARA[摩陀羅] [Studio Fantasia, animate Film] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenMythologyAdventure, SupernaturalBorn of legendary origins, the young Madara has grown up in obscurity as an apprentice blacksmith. An encounter with the demonic Mouki reveals his destiny, and catapults him into the middle of a mystic quest. Madara fights for revenge with the help of freedom fighters, magical swords and Kirin, the master of the Majin. His goal is to defeat his brother and then overthrow his father, the despotic Miroku.It looks like the first attempt to create an epic action manga and story after Dororo, must have had an influence on Berserk as this manga started publishing two years before Berserk.Overall this OVA feels rushed as there are a lot of great looking unique side-characters who should have some story behind them, but there's no time to tell it, so they are thrown as is.First part properly gives roots of story and provides a love interest, two friends and a rival. But second part brings quite a lot confusion things start to be shown without explanation. In the end I could not enjoy this anime because of half-fantasy/half-futuristic setting with artificial bodies and magic. It still could work if not the horrible ending that wasted all the accumulated epic potential. It's only natural as manga ended only in 1997, so showrunners just hastily mashed things up. This story deserved a better treatment, also at a later time.Overall Rating: 6/1010.Majuu Senshi Luna Varga魔獣戦士ルナ・ヴァルガー [AIC, Studio Hakk] (Finished 4/4)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, EcchiThe Dunbas Empire tries to conquer the peaceful land of Rimbell. The three princesses are determined to resist the invaders, expecially the middle one, the tomboyish, sword-wielding Luna. After a magical escapade in the cellars of the castle, she finds herself embedded up to the hips in the head of a huge green reptile, the legendary Varga, and acting as its "brain." Even when in human form she has a reptilian tail. She has to fend off a very persistent giant invader and rescue her sister who has been kidnapped by a pterodactyl.So ridiculous that any story can be neglected right away, and only comedy needs to be evaluated, and it does not impress at all.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Shakotan★Boogieシャコタン★ブギ [Pierrot] (Finished 4/4)Tags:SeinenRacing, SchoolAction, ComedyIt's girls, gangs, and cars in this adaptation of the 1985 manga in Young Magazine, by Lullaby for Wednesday's Cinderella-creator Michiharu Kusunoki. Local punks steal cars, switch the plates, and sell them, but not without racing them for a while against rival gangs. The anime continues the story where the 1987 live-action movie starring Kazuya Kimura left off.With such huge amount of sexist humor, it can hardy go over average.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Dragon Fistドラゴンフィスト [Agent 21] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoMartial ArtsDrama, FantasyThe story follows Ling Fei-long, a Chinese transfer student living in Japan. Ling is the son of the leader of the White Dragon clan, one of four clans who live in the mountains of China and are descended from mythical beasts. After killing an ordinary human, Ling is banished to Japan so that he might learn about humanity and how to control his powers around them.Pathetic melodrama about clones which rivals some of the worst anime ever made.Overall Rating: 3/1013.Ariel DeluxeDELUXE ARIEL (エリアル) [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:MechaAction, Comedy, Sci-FiThose incompetent aliens are still plotting to conquer the Earth! The only obstacle in their path is the giant, feminine robot ARIEL! But the young pilots have lives of their own... When Kazumi receives a mysterious love letter from a secret admirer, should she cancel her first date just to save the Earth?Giant girl mecha is fighting giant dinosaur mecha,... that's all I need to know about this anime. Oh, and there's fanservice. Now definitely all.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Makyuu SenjouDark Warrior魔宮戦場 [Daiei] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Action, Sci-FiWhen computer genius Joe Takami hacks into a top secret computer system in search of information on a mysterious girl, he gets much more than he bargained for. Now, after uncovering evidence of a secret government experiment, he's running for his life, and everyone, including his best friend and his personal computer, has turned against him. As a ruthless team of high-tech ninja follows his trail, Joe must depend upon the unpredictable powers that lie within him in order to survive. Can he find a way to evade the government assassins before they terminate the human genetic experiment named Joe Takami.Cyborg is an ok guy , but after shock becomes a muscular berserk, pretty much everything else is trashy fighting and gore .Overall Rating: 4/1015.Be-Bop KaizokubanBe-Bop 海賊版 [Toei Animation] (Finished 3/3)Tags:SeinenDelinquents, SchoolComedyBased on a parody manga of Be-Bop Highschool.I found it disgusting in so many ways. With only couple minutes per sketch it does not even feel integral.Overall Rating: 4/1016.Phantom Yuusha Densetsuファントム勇者伝説 [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenMilitaryAction, DramaYazawa, a Japanese pilot, suffers a crash in his Phantom jetfighter. After a six month recovery, his old friend from an airplane magazine wants him to investigate the appearance of a Phantom in an armed conflict in El Salvador. Yazawa's investigations makes him wind up in an international arms conspiracy. Based on a series of military fiction novels.I tried to find any elements that could justify it even a little, and passable visuals is the only thing I found not appalling here.Overall Rating: 2/1017.Samuraider: Nazo no Tenkouseiサムライダー謎の転校生 [-] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SamuraiAction, DramaIn a combination of samurai movies and Bomber Bikers of Shonan, Tokyo street punk Masao buys a treasured FZR "katana" motorcycle and becomes a knight of the road, attacking criminals with a genuine katana sword.Biker with katana, even two if we also take the neighboring guy the protagonist imitated. Overall, very silly, aimless and chaotic, can't even call it humor, to be honest.Overall Rating: 4/1018.Bousou Sengokushi暴走戦國史 [-] (Finished 2/2)Tags:ActionModern-day bikers make and break alliances with neighboring gangs, fight over the right to use a local petrol station, and are eventually united under a powerful leader. It's a replay of the events of Japan's 16th-century civil war, but with bikes instead of horses and knives instead of swords. Based on the manga by Jiro Ueno in Weekly Playboy.Not translated. No humor. Why should I be interested in biker parody of medieval civil war... Let's assume I am. Characters are ugly. There's a huge number of them. Both OVA take less than 90 minutes. The whole point of civil war is in complexity. What's the point of biker parody is beyond my understanding. There's a huge number of much better done Sengoku parodies later on.Overall Rating: 4/1019.Kumo ni Noru雲にのる [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenActionIn a Buddhist heaven where saints fight over turf in the clouds, Nio-maru searches for the younger sister torn from him in an aircraft accident back in the human world.Not translated. Another weird OVA about giants,gods and oni and protagonist who does not care who to make love to. Ecchi tag is a must have here, if there was no semblance of plot I'd even call it hentai for the sheer amount of H events and nudity. Plot is silly to the point that it's amusing to watch, but it's one huge nonsense, so I'd say don't bother. .Overall Rating: 4/1020.Judo-bu Monogatari柔道部物語 [Studio Deen, Daume] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SchoolSportsBased on the same name manga by Kobayashi Makoto.Not translated. Protagonist gets a harsh welcome at judo club when he applies, but he keeps practicing, eventually mastering a deadly throw that allows him to protect himself from hooligans. As you can see, it's super simple and with only faint smell of humor, so zero point in watching it.Overall Rating: 4/1021.Shounen Ashibe少年アシベ [Pony Canyon] (Finished 0/6)Tags:ComedyAfter moving to a new town, a young boy comes across a lone baby seal. They become fast friends and enjoy everyday life together.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1022.Mobile Suit Gundam F91機動戦士ガンダムＦ91 [Sunrise] (Finished 1/1)Tags: Mecha, Military, SpaceDrama, Sci-FiIn the year 123 of the Universal Century, skirmishes between the Federation government and the rebel group Crossbones Vanguard echo across Earth's space colonies. One of these small battles breaks in the hometown of young Seabook Arno, forcing him and his friends to flee and ensnaring them in the political turmoil that is quickly evolving into an all-out war.Seabook meets Cecily Fairchild, granddaughter of the aristocrat Meitzer Ronah, who seeks to create a new political power called "Cosmo Babylonia." Using the Crossbone Vanguard as its muscle, the Ronah family schemes to restore aristocratic rule and establish an economic system that will benefit the nobility, thus devastating the quality of life for the common people of the Earth Sphere.Seabook is tasked with piloting the Gundam F91, a mobile suit created by his mother, and must choose between protecting the status Federation's status quo or cooperating with Cecily to find a better way of life for all.A bit of fresh air, and a lot of stale everything else. Jumps in narration and underdeveloped characters disappoint the most.Overall Rating: 5/1023.Ushiro no Shoumen DaareWho's Left Behind?うしろの正面だあれ [Mushi Production] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaKayoko is a young girl in 1940, just starting first grade. She's a bit of a crybaby, which is no secret to those around her. She loves playing with friends and singing cute schoolyard chants, and occasionally having fun with her three older brothers. Her mother is pregnant, and so she looks forward to being a big sister, only partially understanding the responsibility that might bring. Meanwhile, the war effort is growing, and it`s only the natural thing to do to be patriotic and support the country...Kayoko goes so far as to contribute her favorite dolly, whose materials could help build explosives. Time passes, and as she grows older, Kayoko sees how the war has affected her life and those around her. Nothing can prepare her for 1945, however, and the bleak times that are soon to come. Based on original creator Kayoko Ebina's real life experience during World War 2 on Showa era.Dream scene must have influenced Spirited Away by Miyazaki. As for the rest... children sing a lot of songs and play. I don't like this anime as both kids and adults know that their country is allied with Nazi Germany in Axis , everyone lives miserably and still doll is sacrificed for this cannibalistic regime to create explosives and kill more good people. Idiocy should not equal patriotism .Overall Rating: 6/1024.Dorami-chan: Wow, The Kid Gang of Banditsドラミちゃんアララ・少年山賊団！ [-] (Finished 0/1)Tags:Fantasy-Not found.Overall Rating: 0/10

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Anime of the Year 1990-IV Fall - Osu!! Karate-bu

By kivandopulus, September 11, 2022

Anime of the Season

I can highlight two borderline masterpieces -Osu!! Karate-buandChibi Maruko-chan Moviewith original work always taking precedence over recurring one of equal score.1.Magical★Taruruuto-kunまじかる☆タルるートくん[Toei Animation] (Finished 3/87)Tags:Gag Humor, SchoolAdventure, Comedy, Fantasy, EcchiMagical Taruruto-kun is a magical boy, fighting, and comedy TV show based on the manga of the same name by Tatsuya Egawa which ran in Weekly Shounen Jump.Not translated. RemindsDash! Kappei by energy, so should be quite popular if translated, but yeah, 87 episodes. So perverted elementary school student accidentally summons a witch chibi and first tries to attract his favorite girl attention and does some pranks with the help of witch magic, then protects school from outer forces. Nothing super fancy, just a genki anime.Overall Rating: 5/102.Pygmalioピグマリオ [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/39)Tags:ShoujoAdventure, FantasyCoult, the prince of the kingdom of Loon, is living a happy life with his father King Stephan and many retainers. He is cheerful, bright, tender-hearted, and gifted by the god Aganade. Coult’s mother Galatea (the daughter of Aganade) married King Stephan. However, Medusa, the daughter of the evil spirit, was envious of her happiness and turned her into a statue together with many villagers when Coult was still a baby. In order to save the other villagers, Stephan pledged allegiance to Medusa, and was forced to promise to make Coult do the same on his 8th birthday.When the day arrives, Coult declares that he will defeat Medusa and revive the people who were turned into statues. He sets out on a long journey to search for the daughter of the evil spirit.Not translated. Boy since early childhood could lift a carriage with one hand, and it is the distinguishing feature of anime alongside Greek mythology. Looks really plain and slow, to be honest. No outstanding characters are spotted either.Overall Rating: 5/103.Mitsume ga Tooru三つ目がとおる [Tezuka Productions] (Finished 3/48)Tags:AdventureHe is a little boy who has a terrible power. On his forehead is a third eye that, if open, releases extremely dangerous mystical energy that turns him into an evil sorcerer, bent on conquering mankind, and able to summon demons and wielding a red harpoon wand called Red Condor. To protect mankind from his terrible power, Sharaku is made to wear a bandage which seals his third eye. While his eye is sealed, Sharaku knows nothing of his true nature or his power, and does not remember his evil half's sinister attempts to conquer the world.Only ten episodes are translated, others are MTL'ed. It's true that initial movie was butchered pretty bad by Toei animation or whatever that made it into constant hitting against things silly comedy. I believe that Tezuka Productions even without Osamu made things right this time just like with Kimba White Lion, but the problem is that series repeat movie , and I have no desire to watch the similar story another time, it just lacks interest to me trying to overcome random traps and enemies while exploring tombs or whatever. Good thing that there are warnings for humanity this time and it's not silly anymore, but concept does not cut it for me.Overall Rating: 6/104.RPG Densetsu HepoiRPG伝説ヘポイ [Gallop] (Finished 3/50)Tags:Adventure, FantasyThe adventure of Hepoi, a hero of heporis, Ryuuto, the prince of Dragonia, Miiya Miiya a fairy looks like a cat, and Bunzaemon, a merchant, to defeat Dracunes, the King of dark side castles.Only six episodes are translated. Basically, another Dragon Ball imitator with chibi characters and silly funny enemies. That kills any possible seriousness in an instant, but there's also lack of conceptual comedy to attract anyone else but kids. Just another anime not tagged for kids as needed.Overall Rating: 5/105.Karakuri Kengou Den Musashi LordMusashi, the Samurai Lordからくり剣豪伝ムサシロード [Pierrot] (Finished 3/50)Tags:MechaAction, AdventureIt is the time of civil war. Zipangu is a country where people live together with gimmick warriors, a kind of super human robot. There, people and gimmick warriors struggle to seize power. Musashi, a Samurai gimmick warrior, departs to on a quest to become the best Samurai warrior. Musashi thrives in the series of battles, encountering with many heroes and villains including his lifelong rival, Kojiro, an expert swordsman. Later, Mushashi and Kojiro are sent by their General to escort the Princess, a granddaughter of the general. The princess is spoiled and difficult, so their journey becomes series of misadventures. Soon, they are caught up in a battle to seize control of the Country.Fantasy is the new mecha, but the two are still getting mixed for bizarre results. Too simple, as for me, in all regards.Overall Rating: 5/106.Happyakuyachou Hyouri Kewaishi八百八町表裏化粧師 [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 3/16)Tags:HistoricalDramaSet in early 1900s Tokyo, its story is about a makeup artist named Kosannba. All the women desire to have their make up done by Kosannba because he is the best. He also manages to get intertwined into the lives of many women and proceeds to work out their various problems.Not translated. Sigh. I'm trying to find any reasons to watch this anime. First of all, it shows late Edo pretty well. Secondly, it's ecchi. Lastly, protagonist is kind of goofy and falls in all sorts of situations, usually linked to some girl somehow. One average story only takes 10 minutes. Concept might work, but not without translation for sure .Overall Rating: 5/107.Edokko Boy: Gatten Tasuke江戸っ子ボーイがってん太助 [Pierrot] (Finished 3/22)Tags:Detective, Martial ArtsComedy, SportsTasuke, a student in a police academy, wanted to be the manager of the academy and arrest all criminals in Edo city. Tasuke is still eleven years old, but, he really wanted to get rid of criminals so the world will be a better place to stay in. Tasuke have three other friends; Omon and the other two. With them, they work together and that is the start of a funny and sometimes serious adventure.Not translated. I call such shows time fillers as concept is abstract and aimless, can't figure why should I even want to watch it in first place - those stale concepts are remnants of long past time. Anyway, lots of childish characters and chibi designs, lots of mediocre humor. Again, hello, Dragon Ball. I found no outstanding element that would catch my attention, so average.Overall Rating: 5/108.Sanchoume no Yuuhi三丁目の夕日 [Group TAC] (Finished 3/27)Tags:Comedy, Slice of LifeBased on the same name slice of life manga by Saigan Ryouhei.Not translated. And SOL comedies are really difficult to perceive without translation. Basically, only half episodes are available in full. Characters aren't cute at all. Anime tries to target the same group of kids for first three episodes, but it lacks comedy. Afterward, just as in original, absolutely different citizens are targeted, which makes it very weird and confusing.Overall Rating: 5/109.Peach Command Shin Momotarou DensetsuPEACH COMMAND 新桃太郎伝説 [Knack Productions] (Finished 0/24)Tags:Adventure, ComedyA continuation of Momotarou Densetsu.I have no desire to continue with Momotarou adventures, so won't bother.Overall Rating: 0/1010.Mamono Hunter YoukoDevil Hunter Yohko魔物ハンター妖子 [Madhouse] (Finished 5/5)Tags:Comedy, Fantasy, Horror, SupernaturalYohko Mono is a regular girl making her way through high school--until she learns that she is the 108th successor to a line of warriors charged with defending the earth against demons. Eventually she must fight her ultimate battle against the demon who started it all.Series is mostly known for softcore fanservice, even in PCE games. Anime deserves at least Ecchi tag. Some mediocre action, lots of torn clothes and absence of coherent plot is what you can expect from this anime.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Mad★Bull 34Mad Bull 34マッド★ブル34 [Magic Bus] (Finished 4/4)Tags:DetectiveActionDaizaburo Edi-Ban, a Japanese-American, joins New York City's toughest precinct, the 34th. On his first day he is partnered up with John Estes, called Sleepy by his friends and Mad Bull by his enemies, a cop who stops crime with his own violent brand of justice. Mad Bull makes no qualms about executing common thieves with shotgun blasts if they even pose a minor threat to him or anyone around them. Mad Bull also often steals from prostitutes and does incredible amounts of property damage while fighting crime. Mad Bull's unpoliceman-like behavior often puts him in hot water with his partner Daizaburo and the 34th precinct. However, despite how reckless or illegal these acts are, a good cause is always revealed (For example, Sleepy uses the money he steals from the prostitutes to fund a venereal disease clinic and a home for battered and raped women). Perrine Valley, a police lieutenant, joins Daizaburo and Sleepy later on to help them tackle more difficult cases involving the mafia and drug-running.Mad Bull 34 is inspired by the high-action buddy cop films of the '70s and '80s.This anime is often cited as one of the best from the trashy ones... well, I watched it with interest, but there's hardly any conclusion than can be made. Lots of gore, H, violence, humor and there's actual logic behind it. I liked it , but not to the level of masterpiece, of course.Overall Rating: 6/1012.Kidou Keisatsu Patlabor: New OVA機動警察パトレイバー　NEW OVA [Sunrise] (Finished 3/16)Tags:Detective, MechaComedy, Sci-FiSpecial Vehicles Division 2 is back on duty, along with their Ingram Patrol Labor (Patlabor) robots. Using their courage as well as the Ingrams, Captain Goto's motley crew of officers battle crime in Tokyo city. They also deal with their personal lives, as well as the supernatural.I'm not into Patlabor as I don't consider characters interesting enough here, and without it all the interaction between them lacks interest as well. Without interesting characters there should at least be interesting stories, but those are reserved for movies... It's definitely not Black Lagoon or GitS series, but nevertheless above average.Overall Rating: 6/1013.The HakkendenThe Hakkenden: Legend of the Dog WarriorsTHE 八犬伝 [Artmic] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenHistorical, Martial Arts, Mythology, SamuraiAction, Adventure"During the blood-soaked feudal wars of Japan, the Awa clan faced certain extinction from a rival clan backed by demonic forces. Their clan's salvation becomes a curse when the family dog brings back the head of the enemy warlord but insists upon marrying the lord's daughter! This unnatural union bears fruit, but they are killed; and their eight unborn pups reincarnate as the eight Dog Warriors - The Hakkenden. The eight reincarnated souls travel their separate paths of violence and retribution, but slowly they come together as a formidable group representing the eight virtues of the bushido to slay the demons and redeem their clan!"After great opening episode show falls into averageness with very shallow logic behind actions. Would not call it historical with so many demons around. Story leaves much to be desired.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Violence Jack: Hell's Wind-henバイオレンスジャック〜ヘルスウインド編〜 [Studio 88] (Finished 1/1)Tags:GoreAction, Drama, HorrorThe survivors of Kanto's Hell Earthquake built a new city and christened it "Hope Town". However, this peaceful town becomes a nightmare when it's raided by the motorcycle gang, "Hell's Wind". They abduct the women while the remaining townsfolk are left helpless against them.Meanwhile, a boy, Subaro, meets Jun. Jun's lover was previously murdered, and the duo help one another to fight against Hell's Wind. The battles are getting more and more difficult, but with the appearance of Violence Jack, the citizens seem to gain the upper hand against Hell's Wind.Third Violence Jack movie, which means a lot of trashy gore and H. Only if you liked previous parts.Overall Rating: 4/1015.Ranma ½: Nettou Uta Gassenらんま１／２　熱闘歌合戦 [Kitty Film Mitaka Studio] (Finished 2/2)Tags:MusicComedyA two-part music OVA series never released outside of Japan featuring the main Ranma 1/2 characters. They appear to be having a music contest at a local TV station. As everybody knows, these characters can't get along for more than three minutes and hilarity and hijinks ensue.Just ten songs sung by different characters. Nice.Overall Rating: 6/1016.Shuranosuke Zanmaken: Shikamamon no OtokoSword for Truth修羅之介斬魔劍死鎌紋の男 [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAction, Supernatural, SuspenseShurannosuke Sakaki is a masterless samurai with a razor-sharp katana and a cold-hearted personality. Whenever you see the mark of two crossed scythes on his back, death is sure to follow. Because of his exceptional swordsmanship, Shurannosuke is hired by the Nakura Clan to rescue Princess Mayu from the Seki Ninja. In this mission, he must use his full potential to survive the Seki Ninja's notorious henchmen.Climax of the thought that action is everything, and coherent plot is not needed with good action.Overall Rating: 4/1017.Vampire SensouVampire Warsヴァンパイヤー戦争 [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Super Power, VampireSupernaturalThe rural American west is the setting for this OVA, in which a bizarre and brutal attack on a NASA base in Arizona attracts the attention of a French secret service agent, Monsieur Lassar, when a dead CIA agent is found floating on the Seine in Paris. Lassar is convinced that these two events are related, and sets out to prove it. His investigation leads him to film star Lamia Vindaw and a vampire cult that may be far more vicious and dangerous than its eccentric exterior makes it seem.Movie is very trashy, vampires bring a whole new level of nonsense here. Rather painful to watch.Overall Rating: 3/1018.New Dream Hunter Rem: Yume no KishitachiNEW DREAM HUNTER 麗夢夢の騎士達[] (Finished 1/1)Tags:EcchiRem is an ordinary woman in our world but, in the world of dreams, she becomes a dream warrior, defending humanity from the evils there. When dream demons reach the waking world, she fights them with the help of her pets which transform into a tiger and wolf.It has not become better since 1985, still see zero point in watching it .Overall Rating: 5/1019.Osu!! Karate-buGo!! Karate Club押忍!!空手部 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 4/4)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, SchoolTadashi Matsushita has recently entered the Kansai Fifth Technical High School and joined its notorious karate club. There he meets his captain, Yoshiyuki Takagi, an incredibly strong individual. Feared and respected throughout Osaka, Takagi is deep down an honorable and compassionate guy despite his violent endeavors.This is very close to Sakigake. Humor is good enough, so the main question for me is whether it falls into violence and survival completely like Sakigake or retains sanity and humor till the end. It ended with violence spike, but normal one, not exaggerated overcoming of absolutely murderous moves by superhumans. In the end I was able to enjoy it to some extent, so see no reason to deny it masterpiece status.Overall Rating: 7/1020.Majuu Sensen魔獣戦線 [animate Film] (Finished 3/3)Tags:Action, Fantasy13 scientists seek to tap genetic powers by creating a hybrid of man and beast. Years later, 13 of their children are embroiled in a battle to undo their handiwork, while Shinichi, the son of one of the scientists, teams up with Christian super-beings to save the world.I hate genetics and religion. Add to that gory trashy action, and things should become obvious.Overall Rating: 2/1021.Utsunomiko: Heaven Chapter宇宙皇子天上篇 [Toei Animation] (Finished 5/13)Tags:MythologyAdventure, FantasyDelving into the humans' spiritual journey to the Celestial Realm of Buddha, UTSU NO MIKO follows five friends on their quest to bring peace to a corrupt and chaotic Earth.Born with a horn, Utsu no Miko found refuge on Mt. Kongo where he studies to become a God. But when the ruling imperial government seems to bring only devastation to the people, Miko and his friends venture on a 33-year quest to reach the Celestial Realm and meet the almighty Father of the North Star. Yet, the way is filled with danger, for the five humans intrude upon the world of immortals where the gods reign supreme. And, in order to reach their goal, Miko must first challenge them to battle.However, they soon realize that the gods too are not without flaws and earthly desires. And for Miko, the hope of rescuing his love (Kagami) leads to the realization that the world cannot exist without the balance of gods' tumultuous soul, and the humans' will to survive and to love. For, as one life ceases, another takes its place. And only when there is true peace can people finally see the face of God.I seriously don't see any value in this concept and its realization. People are getting oppressed... (by other people?), so let's go pester divines, and if they are linked to people oppression somehow or if they deliver harm to any of companions, let's take revenge on them... for some reason I'm not longing to see divines' asses kicked. I really did not like pace, development , absence of backgrounds at many moments, eternal dialogues of divines and companions. I've seen a much better execution of similar concept in Tezuka Osamu Gokuu no Daibouken.Overall Rating: 5/1022.Circuit no Ookami II: Modena no Ken サーキットの狼II モデナの剣[Gainax] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenRacingThe adventures of Ken Ferrari, a former racer and motor journalist with an appetite for women. Based on the manga by Satoshi Ikezawa.Not translated. Drawing is so horrible as if from 1970s. Some races, pantsushots and love hotels is all this anime can boast.Overall Rating: 4/1023.Notari Matsutarouのたり松太郎 [Mushi Production] (Finished 0/10)Tags:Combat SportsA teenage school dropout finds new meaning in life when he discovers sumo wrestling, heading off to Tokyo for the bright lights and training with an aging master of the sport.Not translated. Let's say honestly, this series is pretty much obsolete with Matsutarou anime released in 2014, so why even bother.Overall Rating: 0/1024.Super Real Mahjong: Mahjong Battle Scramble - Konran-teki Sento Mahjong麻雀バトルスクランブル混乱的戦斗麻雀 (スーパーリアル麻雀／麻雀バトルスクランブル) [Datam Polystar] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Strategy GameComedy, Fantasy, EcchiSequel of Super Real Mahjong.Mahjong-playing sisters Kasumi, Miki, and Shouko are sent to a world where mahjong tiles are currency. In order to return to their world, they must defeat a mahjong-playing rabbit who rules the land.Senseless running and fighting at ancient China, as expected. Ending has all the torn clothes and transformation scene into sentai.Overall Rating: 4/1025.Shin Karate Jigoku-hen新・カラテ地獄変 [Studio Hibari, Deck] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Martial ArtsActionA returning veteran and karateka from WW2 starts working for the yakuza, looking for a man strong enough to kill him. After becoming karate champion, he joins an Italian woman who is looking for revenge against the nazis who killed her family.Bitter anime that I consider to be so to show the post-war traumatic syndrome danger. No other value whatsoever.Overall Rating: 3/1026.Aries: Shinwa no Seizakyuuアリーズ -神話の星座宮- [Studio Zain] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoFantasy, Romance, SupernaturalBased on the shoujo manga by Fuyuki Rurika.Not translated. Setting looks as pseudo-romantic worthless thing to me as normal school students get reincarnated into evil Greek gods and have to fight Zeus together with other reincarnated gods while waiting for girl's memory to come back ... and afterwards memory comes back and students become students again... seriously, what the hell. Such pretentious stupidity is possible only in shoujo.Overall Rating: 3/1027.Shiawase no KatachiFigures of Happiness しあわせのかたち[Production I.G] (Finished 4/4)Tags:ComedyA gag anime based on the manga of the same name.Not translated. Main characters are side-characters from Dragon Quest II, other characters are also usually insignificant characters belonging to some game franchise, overall from 26 games. But time is usually our days. Manga had 2 pages at first, 4 pages next, so only some short event can develop over those limits. Stages can be absolutely anything from space to beach , situations can be anything from confrontation against some baddie to just meeting some weirdos and fooling around. Translation could help, without it it's not recommended as gags are too absurd.Overall Rating: 4/1028.Oyone to Mattsan: Ai no Utaオヨネと松っっぁん愛の唄 [Victor Entertainment] (Finished 0/1)Tags:MusicRomanceA story set in the countryside of Japan. Two teens meet and slowly fall in love. Their relationship has difficulties developing as her father doesn't approve of the boy's request for her hand in marriage. Part of the OVA features a karaoke-style songs with lyrics present on-screen.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1029.Kaze no Na wa AmnesiaA Wind Named Amnesia風の名はアムネジア [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Avant Garde, Drama, Sci-FiTwo years ago, a mysterious wind swept over the Earth without warning, taking everyone's memories with it. Not knowing their names or even how to speak, cars crashed, planes dropped from the sky, and society crumbled in an instant. One young man happens to wander into a military testing facility, where he meets Johnny, a young boy who underwent experimental memory enhancement treatment and could, therefore, still remember who he was. Johnny names the young man Wataru and teaches him everything that he can before his frail body fails him.Wataru sets out on a journey to see if he can find other people like him, and in San Francisco, he meets a mysterious silver-haired woman named Sophia, who refuses to speak about her past. Sophia says that she is heading to New York, and decides to travel together with Wataru. As the pair make their way across America, they learn about what has happened to the rest of society, and what the essence of humanity really is.A visually pleasant anime that - sadly - is just a mashed up travel anime like Kino no Tabi/Blue Blink in apocalyptic world. Very weak resolution and no even some thought behind it all.Overall Rating: 5/1030.Chibi Maruko-chan Movieちびまる子ちゃん (1990) [Nippon Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoSchoolComedyChibi Maruko chan is the nickname of a sweetly obnoxious 9-year-old girl. She tricks her grandfather, ponders for hours over how to spend her allowance, and hates sitting next to ugly boys. She talks, feels and lives just as real kids do.As the second term commences, Maruko and her classmates return to their small groups. Maruko’s group includes two naughty boys and Maruko is forced to be one of their subordinates. She seems to face a lot of pressure at school.As the school’s athletic meet approaches, all the classmates are busy exercising. Maruko is no exception, although her laziness means that she is late sometimes. Maruko realizes that the two boys rival each other in everything they do, and that their friendship is deep and strong.I value comedy episodes of Maruko-chan more than lyrical ones. This is one lyrical one about bonding of two boys Oono-kun and Sugiyama-kun. Concentration was less than in the series, and there were only couple half-decent comedy commentaries, but ending more or less made it to the borderline masterpiece. Sadly, not higher.Overall Rating: 7/1031.Ajin Senshi亜人戦士 [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Fantasy, Sci-FiIn the year 2200 an interstellar war is held where the weapons most frequently used are the psychic capacities. The hero, Zero, son of an earthling and an extraterrestrial, the prince and last survivor of a clan of magicians. He will fight against the army of the Manjidara empire, whose forces are such as its head ambition to control the whole universe.Not translated. Esper in space... where have we seen that? Locke the Superman , including recent movie Lord Leon. Come on, protagonists look so much alike - both have short green hair. Personalities are also similar, but it's right for half of anime. Then how about pirate aesthetics and pirate sea ships ... in space? I saw here nothing but averageness.Overall Rating: 5/1032.Sensou ga Owatta Natsu ni 1945 Karafuto戦争が終わった夏に 1945・樺太 [からふと][-] (Finished 0/1)Tags:HistoricalDrama-Not found.Overall Rating: 0/10

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Anime of the Year 1990-III Summer - Mainichi ga Nichiyoubi

By kivandopulus, September 9, 2022

Anime of the Year

The only borderline masterpiece I can call in Summer 1990 isMainichi ga Nichiyoubi1.Robin Hood no DaiboukenThe Great Adventures of Robin Hood ロビンフッドの大冒険 [Tatsunoko Production] (Dropped 3/52)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, RomanceA variant of Robin Hood in which all the principal characters are teenagers.Several centuries ago in Nottingham County, a cruel and greedy baron by the name of Alwine ordered the destruction of the Huntingtons' castle—from the fire of which Robin and his cousins, Will, Winifred and Barbara, miraculously escaped. The youngsters sought shelter in Sherwood Forest, where, thanks to the wise guidance of the hermit better known as "Friar Tuck," they managed to face the difficulties of a life in the wilderness as as well as they could; however, in the forest there lived a fearless group of young bandits, led by Little John. Their first encounter with Robin and his cousins was at first rather stormy, as the two groups fought for the destiny of a young, noble maiden named Marian who had fallen into the hands of the bandits during an ambush.Their bitterness, however, rapidly lead the way to friendship, and Robin and John later realized they were all victims of the same fate. The youngsters thus mutually decided to help one another. Baron Alwine was not merely enemy of the Huntingtons—in fact, a couple years earlier he had forced Little John and his gang to seek protection in the forest to avoid forced labour. He would later seek Marian Lancaster for the secret carved on a cross the girl wore as symbol of her family line.The girl was to be adopted by the shady Bishop Herfort—Alwine's accomplice—who sought to attain the Lancaster's wealth. With all their strength, Robin and his friends were then compelled to fight against the baron's troops, led by Gilbert—a dangerous and fearless knight. When Winifred and Marian were then imprisoned in the castle's dungeons, our heroes tried in every way possible to enter until their ardour was finally rewarded with success. Thanks to his noble heart and heed for danger, Robin became rapidly known as the protector of the poor and oppressed. Beloved and highly esteemed not only by the villagers, but also and especially by the sweet and beautiful Marian he was. The boy who never parted from his loyal, magical bow, endlessly engaged in dangerous and unthinkable missions.First Huckleberry , then Sawyer, then Peter Pan , and now finally Robin Hood adventures - I see them as links of one chain. Robin Hood has more recognizable characters and overall more interesting setting than Peter Pan , so it's a bit more enjoyable... not for me though. For me it's just a childish fantasy on famous story with zero interest in the plot.Overall Rating: 5/102.Karasu Tengu Kabutoカラス天狗カブト [KSS] (Dropped 3/39)Tags:HistoricalAction, Adventure, Drama500 years ago in the Tensho Era of Japan, a man was born who defied the will of a demon; a man who had gods of good on his side; a man destined to battle evil....his name was Kabuto. Somehow, Kuroyasya Douki, the vile Black Night Demon, escaped his prison in hell and returned to the earthly plane to wreak vengeance on the family-line of Kabuto. None can escape his deadly magic and masterful skills with the blade; however, the gods of the North, West, East, and South band together to help Kabuto stand for Justice. With the questionable help of a diabolical talking sword that his own father forged, Kabuto may live another day to see his own sons born....The first bell rings when no Studio and only producer is known. Story suffers from constant change of place and perspective until the band gathers up and most of lack of explanation. As action pretty average, as for me.Overall Rating: 5/103.A-Ko The VersusProject A-ko: Uncivil Wars-Ko The VS [ヴァーサス] [Studio Fantasia] (Finished 2/2)Tags:Super PowerAction, Adventure, Comedy, Romance, Sci-FiA-ko and B-ko are bounty hunters in an untamed world. When a young heiress, C-ko, falls out of the sky and into their hair, they find themselves battling space pirates and galactic police. Turns out the high-pitched, hungry C-ko holds a secret—the spirit of an ancient evil—and is the center of a plot to destroy the universe!I was so happy when A-Ko tetralogy finished with Finale OVA, and here we go again. This alternative setting when C-Ko goes from everyone's beloved into some heir and eternal rivals A-Ko and B-Ko becoming partner bounty-hunters does not add credibility. Grey side and Blue side confuses even worse. I can't find anything good in this spin-off.Overall Rating: 5/104.Nineteen 19 [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, Romance19-year-old Kubota is ready to find a girlfriend. The perfect chance arises when he meets Masana Fujisaka, his first love, in a club. She's just broken up with her longtime boyfriend and is surprised to run into Kubota, who sees that the perfect opportunity has just arisen.Not bad romantic anime with some strange homo moves and cool music, yet very straightforward due to short 40-minutes length.Overall Rating: 6/105.Bouken! Iczer 3Iczer Reborn冒険！イクサー３ [AIC, Darts] (Finished 6/6)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiIn deep space a battle wages between the forces of good and evil and the fate of the Earth hangs in the balance. The evil Neos Gold dispatches her invading forces towards Earth with only one aim: the total destruction of all mankind. Now it's up to Iczer 3 (the younger sister of Iczer 1) to defend the Earth from the deadly armada of Neos Gold, with only the Earth's single remaining battle cruiser on her side. But don't count her out; what Iczer 3 lacks in experience she makes up for in all-out enthusiasm.The most memorable thing about Iczer-1 was yuri and ecchi, and now both these elements and toned down. Good job making another somewhat unique franchise totally unremarkable.Overall Rating: 5/106.Riki-Oh 2: Horobi no KoRiki-Oh 2: Child of Destruction力王2 「滅びの子」 [Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenMartial Arts, Super PowerActionChild of Destruction is the sequel to the RIKI-OH OVA Wall of Hell. Child of Destruction tells us more of Riki's past, as we flash back to his childhood to learn the terrible fate of his mother and how he himself was taken away from his twin brother Nachi during a game of hide-and-seek, with Nachi's plaintive cry of "Are you ready yet?" haunting him through the years. Riki has a six-pointed star emblazoned on his hand, while Nachi has a swastika on his, the significance of which go unexplained. Riki finds himself in the town of Misaki, dotted with illegal nuclear power plants and run by a religious fanatic military organization called "God's Judgment." He is taken prisoner and made to fight in gladiatorial matches in a sprawling arena. He finds his brother, whose special powers have given him the name of "Savior," but his reunion with his resentful sibling turns sour rather quickly. Part 2 is much gorier than Part 1, with Riki smashing his fists into numerous soldier opponents with far less restraint.Just another story resembling the first movie. But all those exploding body parts and evil aniki make it look more and more like Hokuto no Ken, and that's a very bad comparison in my understanding.Overall Rating: 4/107.Mainichi ga Nichiyoubi毎日が日曜日 [Production I.G, Group TAC] (Finished 6/6)Tags:DetectiveComedy, RomanceYumi Takeshita is a cheerful lady who recently joined the police force of the Tawagoto precinct. When she was still a middle school student, she was saved from being hit by a truck thanks to a stranger. Several years later, she meets her savior once again while performing her first arrest attempt. He is a magician named Tohru Ichidaiji and Yumi is charmed to finally meet him. As a police officer who is assigned to several odd tasks, she will keep asking for the help of the handy Tohru.Quite nice comedy with lots of clever parody. I could enjoy it only a little, but it's just what borderline masterpiece score is for.Overall Rating: 7/108.Fuuma no Kojirou: Seiken Sensou-hen風魔の小次郎聖剣戦争篇 [animate Film] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenMartial ArtsAction, FantasyHakuo Gakuin used to be a prestigious high school, and famous for martial arts. However, because its rival school; Seishikan, has been cowardly luring it's superior students, Hakuo was going to decline.In order to recover from the situation, the acting principal of Hakuo; Hojo Himeko, sends Yagyu Ranko to the Fuma Village in search of the famous Fuma ninja clan for assistance. The leader of the Fuma sent Kojiro to Hakuo, there he faces the notorious Yasha clan who fights for Seishikan lead by Asuka Musashi.Soon Kojiro's comrades arrive and an all-out ninja war postponed for 500 years begins between the 2 clans.The plot is a mere excuse for two factions to clash. Lots of repetitive sword fights with obligatory special skill. This anime looks like writer tried to describe an average shounen action anime and just put it to the screen .Overall Rating: 5/109.Hengen Taima Yakou Karura Mau! Sendai Kokeshi Enka変幻退魔夜行カルラ舞う！仙台小芥子怨歌 [-] (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShoujoHorrorShoko and Maiko Ougi are apparently two ordinary schoolgirls in pursuit of graduating and having fun. Shii-chan is the more serious while Mai-chan is more fun-loving. In reality, the two sisters are powerful exorcists from the Karura temple. Each wields half the power... Shii-chan can "see" the spirits, and Mai-chan can banish them. This is a spooky series with heavy emphasis on traditionally Japanese occult themes.Had a prequel in 1989, so everyone should have made an opinion about this horror exorcist anime already.Overall Rating: 5/1010.100%A Hundred Percents [Nippon Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:DramaA pretty 22-year-old girl leaves university and gets her dream job as a TV newscaster, only to discover that life is tough at the top. Adaptation of the "Young Action" manga by Michio Yanagisawa.Not translated. An OK newscaster SOL. Some rivalry, sex harassment and fooling around. There's no global aim except just gaining success at work, and with 50 minutes it's hard to flesh out characters, so can't say it was super interesting for me.Overall Rating: 6/1011.Ai to Ken no Camelot: Mangaka Marina Time Slip Jiken愛と剣のキャメロットまんが家マリナタイムスリップ事件 [Ashi Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, FantasyMarina meets beautiful boys in a SF Fantasy based in Medieval England.It's either shoujo or josei for sure since it's a reverse harem with bishounens of different kinds of nudity (ever wanted to see a scene of a boy washing in a shower? you will anyway in this OVA). Don't expect a good story here.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Lemon Angel YJ-banレモンエンジェル（ＹＪ版） [MI] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SchoolRomanceAdaptation of the Lemon Angel manga serialized in Young Jump magazine.Not translated. I was surprised not to see even Ecchi tag, but as expected it should be here as corresponding situations with nudity happen from the very start. There's hardly anything good in both stories.Overall Rating: 4/1013.OL Kaizou KouzaOL改造講座[TMS Entertainment] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Slice of LifeInspired by Drop Dead! Stupid Office Ladies, a column in Monthly Gendai magazine.Old fart version saw light in 1989, and this office lady variant follows same structure - many sketches. Again, looks good, but in dare need of translation.Overall Rating: 6/1014.Tengai Makyou: Jiraiya Oboro-hen天外魔境自来也おぼろ変 [TMS Entertainment] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, FantasyBased on the first Tengai Makyou game, that initially came out in 1989 as one of the first titles for NEC's PC Engine CD-ROM. Zipang country is enjoying peace nowadays after ancient sealing of demon destroyer Masakado by three fire clan heroes. Nowadays a foreign sect tries to revive Masakado and establish military dominance over Zipang. Protagonist Jiraiya is a descendant of almost vanished fire clan. He needs to find two fire clan heroes to prevent Masakado awakening.Not translated. Unlike previous horrible anime made to pair with the game super real mahjong, this time anime is based on a game that came out a year before, so it's an absolutely normal anime with 96 minutes length. Anime has good character design and directorship. It's funny enough , but development is absolutely serious without usual shounen dips. Very decent movie, with translation it would sure be a success.Overall Rating: 6/1015.City Hunter: Bay City Warsシティーハンターベイシティウォーズ [Sunrise] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, MysteryA new island resort has been built in Tokyo bay, and it is run by one of the world's most powerful super computers. The City Hunter gang has been invited to the grand opening party, but only Miki & Kaori have gotten there. Soon, they and the rest of the party goers are taken hostage by an exiled South American dictator called General Gillium. Now it's up to Ryo and Umibozu to free the hostages, and prevent Gillium's daughter from using the super computer to launch a nuclear attack on the USA.42 minutes means it's just a paired episode. Still, with jokes placed right and fast-paced action it's still one of the best representatives of the series.Overall Rating: 6/1016.City Hunter: Hyakuman Dollar no Inbouシティーハンター百万ドルの陰謀 [Sunrise] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, MysteryBeautiful American Emily O'Hara offers the City Hunter (Ryo Saeba & Kaori Makimura) one million dollars to protect her from a man named Douglas. Ryo & Kaori take the job, but things are not quite what they seem. The real target just might be Ryo, but it's unclear who wants Saeba dead.Can only compare it with Bay City Wars OVA, and this comparison is not in current title favor, so lower score.Overall Rating: 5/1017."Eiji"「エイジ」 [Production I.G, animate Film] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Drama, SportsLegendary boxer Keijiro Akagi's second son, Eiji, is a high school dropout and the world's worst rock guitarist. Though his father and elder brother are both boxers, he hates the sport but suddenly takes an interest in it when he meets the local champion's little sister.I like a lot of elements of this anime - aesthetics, humor, usage of music (cuz music itself is just slightly better than noise), conversations, so it's definitely above average. With boxing kicking in humor mostly disappears , but there's enough momentum in the story to finish on a decent note.Overall Rating: 6/1018.Pink Mizu Dorobou Ame DorobouPink: Water Thieves Rain Thievesピンクみずドロボウあめドロボウ [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, FantasyThe plot is about a young girl named Pink who is a bandit in the desert who steals water from the Silver Company.A lot of humor and action is packed in 32 minutes. Not suitable for me, but I acknowledge it's above average.Overall Rating: 6/1019.Tenjouhen: Utsunomiko天上編・宇宙皇子 [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:MythologyAdventure, FantasyPrequel of Utsunomiko.Not translated. I rated Utsunomiko as average, and this one does change initial impression.Overall Rating: 5/1020.Kimu no Juujikaキムの十字架 [-] (Finished 0/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaBased on the novel by Noboru Wada.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1021.Fujiko Fujio A no Mumako藤子不二雄Aの夢魔子 [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 3/3)Tags:Horror, SupernaturalBased on the horror novel by Fujio (A) Fujiko.I was misleaded by 30 minutes length and one episode, but it's rather three episodes each 10 minutes long . Concept is similar to Laughing Salesman, but done worse, with strange comedy that's hardly appropriate here. Very messy .Overall Rating: 4/10

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Anime of the Year 1990-I Winter - Chibi Maruko-chan

By kivandopulus, September 5, 2022

Anime of the Season

Chibi Maruko-chanis the first anime that gets a flawless masterpiece score from me.1.Watashi no Ashinaga OjisanMy Daddy Long Legs私のあしながおじさん [Nippon Animation] (Dropped 3/40)Tags:ShoujoHistorical, SchoolComedy, Romance, Slice of LifeDaddy Long Legs is based on the novel of the same name by Jean Webster. It chronicles the adventures of Judy Abbott, an orphan in New York. During a meeting for the superintendent, with other important and rich people in attendance, a scholarship is offered to Judy by a mysterious benefactor. Catching only a glimpse of his tall shadow as he leaves, Judy calls him "Daddy Long Legs" and writes him letters every month as per his request. While studying at the Lincoln Memorial school, she makes many friends and learns about a world she never knew about before.World Masterpiece Theatre part, probably the best of the series. Still I can't enjoy it no matter what.Overall Rating: 6/102.Kyattou Ninden TeyandeeSamurai Pizza Catsキャッ党忍伝てやんでえ [Tatsunoko Production] (Dropped 3/54)Tags:ShounenAnthropomorphic, Mecha, Super PowerAction, Comedy, Sci-FiIn the city of Edoropolis, hundreds of mechanical animals live in harmony alongside each other. However, when Lord Wanko discovers that the shogun's chief advisor, Lord Korn, is plotting to take over the government, he knows that something must be done to preserve the peace. In order to thwart Korn's plans, Wanko forms the Nyankees—an elite ninja team led by the fearless Yattarou, who wields the mystic sword Masamasa. With all this power, the Nyankees seem unstoppable!But Korn's schemes are not the only thing the team has to worry about. Secretly based out of the popular Pizza Cats restaurant, the Nyankees must keep their operations hidden while delivering piping-hot plates of pizza and justice.It is a series for kids. As such, I'm absolutely incompatible.Overall Rating: 5/103.Chibi Maruko-chanちびまる子ちゃん [Nippon Animation] (Dropped 50/142)Tags:ShoujoComedy, Slice of LifeMomoko Sakura is an elementary school student who likes popular idol Momoe Yamaguchi and mangas. She is often called "Chibi Maruko-chan" due to her young age and small size. She lives together with her parents, her grandparents and her elder sister in a little town. In school, she has many friends with whom she studies and plays together everyday, including her close pal, Tama-chan; the student committee members, Maruo-kun and Migiwa-san; and the B-class trio: 'little master' Hanawa-kun, Hamaji-Bu Taro and Sekiguchi-kun. This is a fun-loving and enjoyable anime that portrays the simple things in life.This is the only anime that I check translation status every few years. Can't give genius masterpiece score because because concept itself is far from breakthrough. But I can give flawless masterpiece , because all elements fit perfectly here and nothing similar to this experience can repeat anymore - the best SOL anime about elementary school possible.Overall Rating: 9/104.Dragon Quest: Yuusha Abel Densetsuドラゴンクエスト～勇者アベル伝説～ [Pierrot, Studio Comet] (Finished 43/43)Tags:ShounenAction, Adventure, FantasyDragon Quest is loosely based on Dragon Quest III. The names and some of the characters are familar, but the world map is smaller and a very different shape. The two main characters are Abel and Tialah. Tialah receives the legendary Red Stone from the Aliahan Village sage Master Yogi. Soon after, Tialah is kidnapped by the evil Baramos who wants to use the Red Stone to resurrect The Great Dragon and be granted eternal life. Abel swore to rescue Tialah and he is given the Blue Stone, which can only seal the Dragon once it has been released.Several years ago I really wanted to see the plot of Dragon Quest without playing the games, and series fit nice for it. It was partly amusing, but rather childish and with a lot of repetitions that would make sense for a game and not so much for a story driven anime, like find 6 pillars of different elements. Felt pretty average to me, would be better with more concentration and smaller length.Overall Rating: 5/105.Yuusha Exkaiser勇者エクスカイザー [Sunrise] (Dropped 3/48)Tags:ShounenMechaAction, Sci-FiWhen aliens plan to invade earth, the young Kouta along with a giant robot from outspace named Exkaiser must team up to save the world and his friends.Sunrise was a boon for mecha as it guaranteed a certain level of quality, but at the same time it's like their 30th long mecha series or so - and it's hardly possible to make a breakthrough while having such busy production schedules. What we have is yet another simple children oriented mecha with enough personality and humor, but I can't see it anywhere higher than average.Overall Rating: 5/106.Heisei Tensai Bakabon平成天才バカボン [Pierrot] (Dropped 3/46)Tags:Gag HumorComedy, Slice of LifeA comedy about a former genius who has now become very eccentric and senile. His family deals with all the crazy problems he and his old friends cause around the neighborhood.Not translated. It's not much different from two previous Bakabon anime, gags are generally too absurd.Overall Rating: 5/107.Devilman: Yochou Sirene-henDevilman: The Demon Birdデビルマン妖鳥シレーヌ編 [Oh! Production] (Finished 1/1)Tags:MythologyHorror, Sci-Fi, SupernaturalDemons exist and their power is beyond what humans can fathom. In fact they are so strong that humans do not stand a chance against them in a fight.The only thing strong enough to defeat a demon is another demon and it is trough this logic that Ryo Asuka hatches the plan to have his good-hearted friend Akira Fudo possessed by a demon. If a person is of pure of heart then he might be able to control the demon that posses him and thereby acquire power equal to a demon. After raising some hell in a club the plan works and Akira is possessed by the powerful demon known as Amon.Now Akira is humanities sole champion of justice against the hidden demon menace that has plagued humanity since the dawn of time.First movie was retelling of the birth of devilman, this is the first plot development after franchise reboot. It's the last time I'm bringing up Devilman movies as my score can't change and contents remain more or less the same.Overall Rating: 6/108.1+2=Paradise１＋２＝パラダイス [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenHarem, Love PolygonComedy, Romance, EcchiYuusuke Yamamoto has a crippling phobia of women, and understandably so—the twin girls living next door tried to cut off his penis as a child. Unfortunately, Yuusuke's father is a gynecologist and needs him to overcome his fear so he can inherit the family business. To accomplish this, Yuusuke's father offers sanctuary to sisters Rika and Yuka Nakamura in their home while the girls are studying at the nearby college.In a terrible twist of fate, when Yuusuke realizes that their guest room is too small for two people, he is forced to choose which of the sisters is allowed to stay. Desperate to win his favor, the brazen Yuka and the more reserved Rika are willing to do whatever it takes to impress and eventually sway Yuusuke—even if it means making things physical and personal.Looks like it's the originator and trendsetter for all the ecchi harem comedy. There's literally nothing else here except fooling around.Overall Rating: 4/109.Be-Bop Highschoolビー・バップ・ハイスクール [Toei Animation] (Finished 7/7)Tags:SeinenDelinquents, SchoolComedyFor the invincible and basically happy punk lads Hiroshi and Toru, what they care about every day is to get a lot of attention from girls and to win the fights against the lads from other schools. Whenever provoked, they just go out fighting and settle the situation no matter what it costs.A well-done delinquents anime with enough episodical comedy. At the same time there's not much interesting in the genre for me unless it goes full-scale comedy route like Cromartie High School or adds complexity like GTO. It loses even in comparison withShounan Bakusouzoku that had a lot more variety with different kinds of episodes, while Be-Bop Highschool always has violence in the center and something else that might come up is always episodic. I'm not enjoying it at all.Overall Rating: 6/1010.Umezu Kazuo no NoroiThe Curse of Kazuo Umezu楳図かずおの呪い [Takahashi Studio] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Horror"Do not toy with the supernatural."Two stories of the consequences that descend upon humans who venture beyond the safe confines of their ordinary worlds.When a gorgeous girl named Rima transfers into Masami's class, she's not only jealous, but also deathly frightened of her. While the boys in class are tripping all over themselves to get to Rima, Masami's having nightmares of a ghastly visitor and finding scars on her body come morning. She asks a friend to help her get evidence to confirm her suspicions about the new girl. But if a picture is worth a thousand words, a video must be worth far more. The truth can set you free, but it can also be more terrifying than anything you can imagine.Shy Miko and her more outgoing friend Nanako are enjoying their summer vacation, trying to make the most of their youth. But when horror-movie marathons just aren't thrilling enough, Nanako sets her eyes on a new target: an abandoned mansion at the edge of town, said to be haunted. With two other friends in tow, a reluctant Miko and a gung-ho Nanako enter the mansion. Soon, everything that can go wrong starts going wrong. Only luck or a miracle will allow them manage to escape the mansion with their lives, their sanity, and even their sense of reality.There's no reason to watch it if you don't like horror, as there's nothing besides it.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Sol BiancaSOL BIANCA (ソル·ビアンカ) [AIC] (Finished 2/2)Tags:SpaceAction, Adventure, Sci-FiFive female pirates pilot the Sol Bianca, a starship with a higher level of technology than any other known. With it, they seek out riches, such as the Gnosis, an legendary item of power, and pasha, the most valuable mineral in the galaxy. Along the way, they must consider a stowaway's quest to save the one he loves, and seek revenge against those that have wronged them.A nice small amusing Sci-Fi OVA. Far from masterpiece though.Overall Rating: 6/1012.Dirty Pair: Bouryaku no 005-binOriginal Dirty Pair: Flight 005 Conspiracyダーティペア　謀略の００５便 [Sunrise] (Finished 1/1)Tags:DetectiveAction, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-FiIt's Chief Gooley's worst nightmare come true. The Lovely Angels are back on the job, but this time the 3WA's Central Computer has assigned them two cases at the same time: investigate a space liner explosion in which three hundred people died, but no one`s come forward to claim any insurance money; and find a missing scientist and his family.Could the two cases be connected? Only the Central Computer knows and it's not talking. So it's up the Dirty Pair to get down and dirty and solve the puzzle before time runs out for a grieving grandfather, his family and the universe!Just action/detective with a lot of convenience. Since there's very little humor or funny conversations, 5 is all it can hope for. It does not feel like a plot made for Dirty Pair, more like a plot for *insert any sci-fi franchise with 2+ protagonists*.Overall Rating: 5/1013.Ankoku Shinwa暗黒神話 [Ajia-Do] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mythology, PsychologicalFantasy, Horror, Mystery, SupernaturalLong ago there were fierce gods of legends who shook the earth to its foundation with their power. There are now prehistoric rivals from the primitive times in Japan, that fought to protect their secrets in the present day. The God of Darkness Susanoah-oh is now sleeping in the shadows of the underworld waiting for his rebirth. However his coming hasn't gone unoticed. There are agents from the Kikuchi Clan (descendants of Japans first inhabitants) who have seen the warning signs of the spreading of darkness's bringing. These investigators are armed with ancient knowledge and artifacts who are willingly prepared to face the God of Darkness. Now they must fight the assembled spirits of hell to find the one young boy who is chosen by fate to grasp the chaotic might of the deadly Gods.Below average horror, thus not recommended even within the genre.Overall Rating: 4/1014.Ankoku Shindenshou TakegamiGuardian of Darkness 暗黒神伝承武神 (Takegami) [J.C.Staff] (Finished 3/3)Tags: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi, SupernaturalA trio of diabolical dragons stirs from eons of slumber deep within the earth. Charging to the surface, they launch a bloody rampage against humanity, feasting on the weak and gaining strength from their hapless victims' souls. It will take the power of ancient god Takegami, the Guardian of Darkness, to vanquish the evil serpent forces. But alas, the mortal body Takegami inhabits belongs to a host reluctant to fight.Another example of average gory horror with a chosen warrior, but now this averageness lasts for two full hours...Overall Rating: 5/1015.Eguchi Hisashi no Nantoka Narudesho!江口寿史のNANTOKA [Madhouse] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoParodyComedy, Horror, SupernaturalPart anime, part live action, and part puppet show. This MAL entry duration will reflect the anime segment only. Nantoka Narudesho is a series of seemingly unrelated sketches. Viewer-be-warned, some sketches have not aged well and would be found extremely offensive due to racism, sexual depravity, and homophobia.Offensive disgusting gags.Overall Rating: 3/1016.Carol [animate Film, Magic Bus] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoFantasyCarol is the tale of a teenage girl whose life seems normal enough until she notices music disappearing from all around her, such as the sound of Big Ben, her father`s cello-playing, and the concert of her favorite band, Gaball Screen. After hearing some mysterious voices, Carol is transported to a fantastic world where she must fight against the evil monsters who are stealing the music from Earth. She meets and is assisted by three dashing heroes: Clark, Tico, and Flash.A crazy immature variant of Alice in the wonderland.Overall Rating: 4/1017.Gdleenガデュリン [Ashi Productions] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Fantasy, Sci-FiDue to spacecraft failure earthlings Ryu with computer robot "MOS" landed on self-navigated planet Gdleen. There Ryu meets a cute Euradonian fairy Fana. At that time, the planet was in the midst of a dispute over a Gavana temple. Self proclaimed God Gavana captured Fana for a sacrifice. Would they be able to escape? And what the identity of Gavana?!A short OVA that tells no decent story and just leaves viewer confused.Overall Rating: 4/1018.Satsujin Kippu wa Heart-iro殺人切符はハート色[Deck] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoMysteryA detective story about a murder on a train based on a series of young-adult novels for women by Yamaura Hiroyasu. Seiko, while suspended from school (she has been bullied) goes to Nagasaki, where she finds herself involved in a murder mystery.Romance detective mystery in just 50 mins? Its one of my hated genres, but from what I see they failed at everything here.Overall Rating: 4/1019.Hana no Asukagumi! 2: Lonely Cats Battle Royale花のあすか組! 2 ロンリーキャッツ・バトルロイヤル [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoDelinquentsAdventure, DramaSecond OVA of "Hana no Asukagumi!".Asuka is a delinquent school girl. Her parents one day decide to give her a gold coin to use just case anything bad happened. Asuka decides to use this coin as a weapon to fight, for no actual reason. One day a club forms that starts a battle royale between a bunch of different gangs or individuals. Asuka is put in to the battle without her knowledge.First part was really violent and featured dozens of characters. It is indeed battle royale, so naturally there's plenty of action. I see no reason in watching this series, maybe just because it's the only female delinquents anime I know.Overall Rating: 4/1020.Super Real Mahjong: Kasumi Miki Shouko no Hajimemashiteスーパーリアル麻雀ミキ・カスミ・ショーコのはじめまして (スーパーリアル麻雀／かすみ・ミキ・ショー子のはじめまして) [Datam Polystar] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Strategy GameComedy, EcchiAn anime based on characters from the strip mahjong arcade game "Super Real Mahjong 2".Just introduction of characters, some fanservice, some music, some cuteness. One big advertisement for the game.Overall Rating: 4/1021.Kimama ni Idol気ままにアイドル [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Idols (Female), Music, ShowbizThree pretty girls want to make it big as pop stars, but it's tough on their way to the top. Based on a manga in Comic Burger by Kenichi Koya, it was distinguished by a marketing gimmick that had the three lead voice actresses taking to the stage for real in an early attempt at multimedia promotion.Not translated. Seiyu to idol is a lucrative female career path. Lots of stamps, music and just silliness. Conclusion is so horrible that it nullifies all previous positive efforts .Overall Rating: 4/1022.Hidari no O'Clock!!左のオクロック!! [Toei Animation] (Finished 2/2)Tags:DramaYuu Shinozaki is fed up with living according to the clock, the clock that always turns right. His liberal thinking gets him in bad terms with his parents, teachers and childhood friend Aoi, with only his biker sister Moe to understand him. One day, after an exceptionally upsetting day at school, Yuu jumps on his motorbike and - with some help from Moe's friend Tetsuo - leaves home to have a taste of a different way of life, like making the clock turn left for a change.Not translated. Translation would be welcome, because it's a high quality OVA about coming of age and breaking stereotypes of life according to timetable.Overall Rating: 6/1023.Kizu darake no Tenshi-tachiHeartbroken Angels傷だらけの天使たち [-] (Dropped 0/1)Tags:SeinenParodyComedy, EcchiThirty-one stories based on the fourpanel manga strips drawn by Masahiko Kikuni for Young Sunday magazine make up this anime that mixes animation and live action (18 animated stories, 13 live-action stories).Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1024.Kentoushi拳闘士 [Miyuki Production] (Finished 3/3)Tags:SeinenSportsAnime adaptation of the same name sports manga by Kurashina Ryou.The above average boxer story, but my hate for spokons is too big to really like it.Overall Rating: 6/1025.Maji本気(マジ)! [Nippon Animation] (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenOrganized CrimeDramaMaji is a young hood in the Nagisa criminal organization whose name is synonymous with loyalty and truth. While driving away thugs, he meets and falls for local high school girl, Kumiko; however, complications ensue when he and his group run into the rival Kikuchi gang looking for trouble. Based on the first four volumes of the gang chivalry manga by Ayumi Tachihara.Not translated. Yakuza advancement story. Believable, but violent and offensive, so can't find a reason to recommend it.Overall Rating: 4/1026.Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru: Soukaizan Eiyuu Densetsu魔神英雄伝ワタル創界山英雄伝説 [Sunrise] (Dropped 0/1)Tags:ShounenMechaAction, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiCompilation of the Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru series.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1027.Dragon Ball Z Movie 02: Kono Yo de Ichiban Tsuyoi YatsuDragon Ball Z: The World's StrongestドラゴンボールZ この世で一番強いヤツ [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiIn his laboratory, biotechnology expert Dr. Kochin gathers the dragon balls intending to free his master Dr. Uirou, a mad scientist hellbent on ruling the world, forever frozen in the never-melting ice of the Tsurumai-Tsuburi Mountains. Attempting to locate the dragon balls, Gohan Son and Oolong arrive at the scene and are ambushed by several creatures known as "Bio-Men." Training nearby, Piccolo attempts to save them but is then attacked by three mysterious warriors. When the ice beneath them breaks, it cuts their altercation short, burying Gohan and Oolong within.After regaining consciousness, they return home to Kame House only to encounter Bio-Men, demanding Muten-Roushi to follow them. Refusing, he easily defeats the creatures, piquing Dr. Kochin's interest. Under the impression of Muten-Roushi being the strongest man in the world, Dr. Kochin takes Bulma hostage, forcing Roushi's agreement to accompany him in mysterious plans involving his master. Who are Dr. Kochin and Dr. Uirou? What even is their purpose?Movie is so aimless and senseless that it puts a question why to watch Dragon Ball Z movies at all, so won't be listing any more movies from this franchise to not waste time on it.Overall Rating: 5/1028.MarokoMAROKO 麿子 [Pierrot] (Finished 1/1)Tags:PsychologicalComedy, Drama, Sci-FiSummary for the Gosenzosama Banbanzai! OVA.Well, finally this thing is watchable now, six if you can stand all the absurdist gags.Overall Rating: 6/1029.Mahoutsukai Sally (Movie)魔法使いサリー [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/1)Tags: ShoujoComedyThis short movie tells the story of Sally, a teenage witch that came to Earth from the Magical Kingdom.For some mysterious reason, spring has not started yet. Sally and her friends have to find the cause and fix the problem.I'd rather see remake of the first 1966 series... this one is more childish.Overall Rating: 5/1030.Tistou Midori no OyayubiTistou the Green Thumbチスト　みどりのおやゆび [Production I.G] (Dropped 0/1)Tags:HistoricalWhen eight-year-old Tistou is sent home from school after being unable to stop falling asleep at lessons, his father decides that he will continue his education by learning from observation of real life, and where better to start than in the garden!With the gardener Mr. Moustache, Tistou discovers he has a remarkable gift—the green thumbs: everything he touches grows into beautiful plants. His next lesson is with the stern Mr. Turnbull, manager of his father's armament factory who takes Tistou to visit the town to learn about "order."Over the course of the next few days Tistou learns many new things as he visits the town prison, the slums, and the hospital, and everywhere he tries to change the world into a better place with his new extraordinary power. Finally, he learns about war, and upon visiting his father's factory, he finds out that they supply the two countries at war with their weapons...Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1031.Ojisan Kaizou Kouzaおじさん改造講座 [Pony Canyon] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ComedyAdapted from Shimizu Chinami and Furuya Yoshi's popular manga in Weekly Bunshun.Not translated. Basically, a parody on old male workers that make up majority of workers. It would be really great to have this translated, at least for the opening remade song from Alps not shoujo Heidi, but sung by jeezers in ballet clothes. Some parts have female narrator, as females suffer from narrow-minded sexist jeezers at work the most.Overall Rating: 6/1032.Umi Da! Funade Da! Nikoniko, Pun海だ! 船出だ! にこにこ, ぷん [Oh! Production] (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, FantasyAnimation movie by Hirata Toshio.This is Smiley Island, a planet very similar to Earth, located beyond the universe. One day, a letter from his mother arrives to Porori, a mouse boy. It is about the birth of his younger brother. Porori takes Jajamaru, a wildcat boy and Piccolo, a penguin girl, to visit his brother. However, the sailing ship carrying the party comes across a whale, and as a result is swept away to there Pirate Island. There, three fearsome pirates have been fighting over treasure for years...Not translated. It is definitely work for kids. Thus not recommended.Overall Rating: 4/1033.Kumo no You ni Kaze no You ni雲のように風のように [Pierrot] (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, Drama, RomanceGinga, a small town girl sets out to become the Emperors Seihi, highest ranked wife, undaunted by the many other women who seek the same title. Her energetic and eccentric ways aid in her in meeting new people, training to be a Lady of the Emperor and dealing with the drama that ensues.Tried to play in Ghibli with a distant and dim history piece. And it might be fine without history references, but those make the story rather unattractive. Nice overall, but I absolutely don't see it as a masterpiece .Overall Rating: 6/1034.Warau Salesman Dai SP-banashi笑ゥせぇるすまん第SP話 [Shin-Ei Animation] (Dropped 2/8)Tags:SeinenAdult Cast, Psychological Comedy, Drama, SupernaturalSpecials of Warau Salesman broadcasted intermittently during the main show not included in the episode count of the main show. They are 3 times the length of a normal episode and fill a half hour time-slot.I blocked series for formal reasons as episodes were just 10 minutes length. There seem to be only two translated episodes of specials that are each 30 minutes. Laughing Salesman is basically Mephisto who provides means to achieve one's heart desire with some condition and huge payback on violation. During this course usually worst character traits are revealed. Such concept is not close to me as well as realization, but it may be toyed with. Guess will see in the remake version that has normal length episodes.Overall Rating: 5/10

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Anime of the Year 1988 - Akira

By kivandopulus, August 26, 2022

Anime of the Year

AkiraandHotaru no Hakaare firm masterpieces for me with the first one as personal favorite.Ginga Eiyuu DensetsuandTonari no Totoroare borderline masterpieces.1.Sakigake!! OtokojukuCharge!! Men's Private School 魁!!男塾 [1988-I] Lantis (Dropped 8/34)Tags:ShounenDelinquents, Martial Arts, SchoolAction, ComedyOtokojuku: a private school for juvenile delinquents that were previously expelled from normal schools. At this school, Japanese chivalry is taught through feudal and military fundamentals. Similar to an action film, the classes are overwhelmed by violence. Only those who survive it become true men.First comedy episodes are perfect, but as violence kicks in, it starts to get overboard. In the 80s it was still fine, but today... not so sure. Midway it suddenly stopped to be funny. And I don't want to recommend this anime for others either, so 6 is the right score for it .Overall Rating: 6/102.Osomatsu-kun (1988)おそ松くん [1988-I]Pierrot (Dropped 3/86)Tags:Gag HumorComedyMeet the Osomatsu boys—sextuplets who look, speak, dress and talk like the same. They only add to the hyper eccentric residents of the town who easily break any boundaries defined by common sense. Check your logical thinking and reason at the door and immerse yourself in everyday lives of unique characters who are wild both in appearance and temperament!Humor is good, but absurd and episodical, so it's difficult to watch more than one episode in a row considered that each episode consists of two stories. .Overall Rating: 6/103.Shoukoushi CedieLittle Lord Fauntleroy小公子セディ [1988-I]Nippon Animation (Dropped 3/43)Tags:Drama, Slice of LifeAfter his father's sudden death, Ceddie moves to England as an heir to his grandfather, the Earl of Dorincourt.The Earl is a stubborn and selfish old man. Gradually, however, Ceddie's innocent love opens the Earl's heart and changes him into a caring and generous person.This is based on "Little Lord Fauntleroy" by F.H.Burnett.World masterpiece series, so only for those who like old literature-like SOL.Overall Rating: 5/104.Tatakae!! Ramenman闘将!!拉麺男 [1988-I]Toei Animation (Finished 3/35)Tags:ShounenMartial ArtsAction, AdventureSet in a land where several martial arts styles collide, including (but not limited to) Chinese Kung Fu, Japanese Karate, and South Korean Taekwondo. Yet amongst these Shaolin-trained fighters and men powerful enough to cut the face of a mountain, Victory Ramenman is said to be the strongest of them all. At a young age, he witnessed his father Somenman being murdered by members of the Cobra Gang (who are still running rampant to this day). Found and taken in by the wise old Chen Sou-Mei, Ramenman trains for 12 years under his master and learns the great Essential Battle Dragon (闘龍極意書, To Ryuu Gokui Sho) style of Choujin Martial arts. Now, with his young sidekick Shao-Mai, Ramenman travels the land seeking vengeance for his father, fighting several villains along the way.There were much more cool heroes in Kinnikuman, but I guess in popularity poll can't compete with Chinese population. Anyway, martial arts action trying to compete with Fist of the North Star is a very low starting position. Absolutely needless, as for me.Overall Rating: 5/105.Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu銀河英雄伝説 [1988-I]Kitty Film Mitaka Studio (Finished 110/110)Tags:Adult Cast, Military, SpaceDrama, Sci-FiThe 150-year-long stalemate between the two interstellar superpowers, the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance, comes to an end when a new generation of leaders arises: the idealistic military genius Reinhard von Lohengramm, and the FPA's reserved historian, Yang Wenli.While Reinhard climbs the ranks of the Empire with the aid of his childhood friend, Siegfried Kircheis, he must fight not only the war, but also the remnants of the crumbling Goldenbaum Dynasty in order to free his sister from the Kaiser and unify humanity under one genuine ruler. Meanwhile, on the other side of the galaxy, Yang—a strong supporter of democratic ideals—has to stand firm in his beliefs, despite the struggles of the FPA, and show his pupil, Julian Mintz, that autocracy is not the solution.As ideologies clash amidst the war's many casualties, the two strategic masterminds must ask themselves what the real reason behind their battle is.With all the facepalms and rolled eyes on my side this show was still aiming for a firm masterpiece from me. But the horrible open ending killed even that intention. I actually do not recommend watching this show to the end, because the reward will be only frustration. Now for the facepalms. Half of space battles are either "We're twice as numerous, why use tactics at all" or "Let's pierce through their center with all the forces! Why are we surrounded after we pierced through their center with all the forces?". But it can't be repeated more than twice, so there are a lot of stupid moves of other kinds. Like "Damn the whole new fleet appeared from the dead angle and now we're surrounded" or "Enemy steamrolls through left flank , but our genius commander does not know how to counter that and just watches. And then enemy commander gets ill and fight stops". Just what the hell is that, seriously. Lots and lots of loopholes , illogical decisions , unexplained coincidences and profanities of all kinds of guards. I'm pretty mad. But still it's the most epic, vast and complex anime space opera created. There are still a lot of personalities in development and unexpected losses on the way. My advice would be to watch recent remake of beginning of this series and be done with it. I dropped this series somewhere at tenth episode last time I tried to watch it 10+ years ago, and it was an absolutely right decision, surprisingly. Those who puts 10/10 scores are just sorry for the wasted time or have not seen anything more complex in anime. And all the people who drop this series can't put the score, because to evaluate they'd need to watch 100+ rather boring episodes.Overall Rating: 7/106.Dragon's Heavenドラゴンズヘブン [1988-I]AIC(Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-FiIn the year 3195, there was a war between an army of robots and the humans. When Shaian, a sentient combat armor, lost his companion in battle, he shut down until his internal systems spotted a new human. It's now almost a 1000 years later, and Shaian's greatest enemy is still alive and doing battle in Brazil. With a new friend`s help, Shaian may be able to stop this evil force before another war rages over the continent.Not bad, but super short, like one anime episode long, can't recommend that because of the length.Overall Rating: 4/107.Soukou Kihei Votoms: Red Shoulder Document - Yabou no RootsArmored Trooper Votoms: Red Shoulder Document - Roots of Treachery 装甲騎兵ボトムズ　レッドショルダードキュメント野望のルーツ [1988-I]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryDrama, Sci-FiAfter armored trooper pilot Chirico Cuvie is given orders to transfer to Planet Odon, he and all of the other new recruits are sent into a simulated battle to test their abilities. However, this 'simulated battle' turns out to be a serious fight to eliminate those without the necessary skills. Chirico survives along with just three others, despite the fact that he fought while injured. It soon becomes apparent that this is not the first time he has survived against incredible odds, a fact that Colonel Peruzen wishes to exploit. But is Chirico truly immortal?The best Kihei Votoms seen so far. Finally story is logical and about protagonist instead of messy action about everything at once.Overall Rating: 5/108.Kyoufu no Bio Ningen Saishuu KyoushiUltimate Teacher 恐怖のバイオ人間最終教師 [1988-I]J.C.Staff (Finished 1/1)Tags:SchoolAction, Adventure, Comedy, SupernaturalAt a run down school the "Ultimate Teacher" Ganpachi is sent to get things back on track and prepare the delinquent students for the real world. But the students don't want Ganpachi ruining the gang they got going so their boss, Hinako, fights back Ganpachi aided by her secret power...her lucky kitty underwear. Things get more interesting when we findout Ganpachi is the result of genetic experiments.Bakage action about bloomers and pantsu. You won't miss anything by not watching this OVA.Overall Rating: 5/109.Seisenshi Dunbine OVA聖戦士ダンバイン [1988-I]Sunrise(Finished 3/3)Tags:MechaAdventure, Sci-FiTaking place 700 years after the Dunbine TV Series, "The Tale of Neo Byston Well" revolves around Shion Zaba, the reincarnation of series protagonist Sho Zama. Together with Silkie Mau, Reml Jilfried (the reincarnation of Remile Luft), and the Aura Battler Silbine, Shion must stop a twisted Shot Weapon from launching a custom-made nuclear ICBM missile that's poised to wipe out the realm."The Tale of Neo Byston Well" gained praise not only for its upgraded animation but also for using B-CLUB Magazine's popular AURA FANTASM series as the basis for the new Aura Battler designs.Reincarnation of Dunbine did not impress either.Overall Rating: 5/1010.Harbor Light Monogatari: Fashion Lala yoriFashion Lala: The Story of the Harbour Light ハーバーライト物語ファッションララより [1988-I]Pierrot (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoA Cinderella story of sorts, Fashion Lala stars a little girl named Miho who doesn't get along with her family. Miho loves to design clothing, but her aunt and three cousins don't believe that such a young girl is capable and mock her designs. Meanwhile, a contest for the new "Disco Queen" is coming up, and Miho wants nothing more than to be able to design a dress for someone to wear to the competition, since she's too young to enter herself. With determination and a little bit of magic, Miho's dreams just might come true!So some girls dance... nothing comes out of it.Overall Rating: 4/1011.Madonnaマドンナ [1988-I]Toei Animation (Finished 2/2)Tags:Delinquents, School, Team Sports, WorkplaceComedy, SportsMako, a sexy young teacher, comes to Gyunabe high school to enlighten young minds. What she wasn't counting on was a class full of misfits lead by the delinquent Obayashi. If their never ending quest to see her underwear and embarrass her in front of the whole school doesn't force her to quit, then her principal's brilliant idea of making her the new rugby coach will.First episode is teacher being molested by delinquents, second is after miraculous shift of attitude coaching them in rugby. Imho, more harm than anything else.Overall Rating: 4/1012.Xanadu Dragonslayer Densetsuザナドウ・ドラゴンスレイヤー伝説 [1988-I]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, FantasyBased on the role-playing game "Legend of Xanadu". The evil magician Reichswar has killed the King to gain possession of a magic crystal; now he means to use its power to rule the whole of Xanadu. Then the widowed Queen Rieru is kidnapped. One brave young warrior, wielding the magic blade Dragonslayer, goes to her rescue.Was a surprise for me that beginning is in mechanized future, but in couple minutes shifts to fantasy and hero kinda loses memory. As just the second fantasy title, concept is simple and straightforward - search for legendary sword together with a princess who gets soon kidnapped, and rescuing her is all the 50 mins length is enough for.Overall Rating: 5/1013.Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack機動戦士ガンダム逆襲のシャア [1988-I]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, Military, SpaceDrama, Sci-FiThe year is Universal Century 0093. Char Aznable has taken command of Neo Zeon, the rebels of outer space. He firmly believes that humankind can only achieve peace by relocating to space. Thus, he plans to crash the giant asteroid Axis into Earth and plunge the planet into an uninhabitable winter. Char also eagerly anticipates this opportunity to settle a 14-year rivalry with Amuro Ray. The two have been reluctant allies at times, but Char has never forgiven Amuro for causing the death of one of his comrades during the One Year War.Only the Earth Federation's Londo Bell Unit has the power to stop Char from fulfilling his dangerous goal. Leading the defense of Earth is veteran captain Bright Noa and Amuro Ray with the latest Nu Gundam mobile suit. In this thrilling conclusion to the original Gundam series, Londo Bell engages in a final conflict with Neo Zeon that will decide the fate of Earth and end this long-standing rivalry—once and for all.Well, I tried.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu: Waga Yuku wa Hoshi no TaikaiLegend of the Galactic Heroes: My Conquest is the Sea of Stars 銀河英雄伝説: わが征くは星の大海 [1988-I]Kitty Film Mitaka Studio (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adult Cast, Military, SpaceAction, Sci-FiFour months before Count von Lohengramm of the Galactic Empire faced Yang Wen-li of the Free Planets Alliance at the Battle of Astarte, he was still just Reinhard von Müsel. The youngest admiral in the Empire's history, Reinhard was disdained and dismissed by his peers as the brother of the Kaiser's concubine.Upon arriving at Iserlohn Fortress with his expeditionary fleet, Reinhard immediately receives an order from the ambitious and cunning Fleet Admiral Gregor von Mückenberger: to intercept an Alliance fleet in a neighboring starzone. Despite recognizing this as a veiled attempt to get him killed in combat, Reinhard nevertheless orders his tired and weary men to engage the enemy in the atmosphere of the gas giant Legnica. But unbeknownst to him, this will mark the first of his many historic encounters with the Hero of El Facil.Nothing really new. With recent remake of the beginning, this movie is obsolete.Overall Rating: 5/1015.Maison Ikkoku: Kanketsu-henめぞん一刻完結篇 [1988-I]Ajia-Do (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAdult CastComedy, Drama, RomanceThe Maison Ikkoku tennants throw a party to celebrate the marriage of Yuusaku and Kyouko. However, during the party Yuusaku hears that Kyouko is waiting for a letter. He becomes jealous and begins to doubt Kyouko, worrying that she still loves someone else. When the morning arrives, the answer to his worries is revealed...I value the show mostly for comedy, but as the last episode it has to tackle more with serious things wrapping up some loose ends. Very nice, as expected.Overall Rating: 6/1016.Urusei Yatsura Movie 5: Kanketsu-henうる星やつら完結篇 [1988-I]Magic Bus (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sci-FiThe Urusei Yatsura story comes to a climax in this animated retelling of the final Manga story (although not the final movie). Lupa, yet another one of Lum's fiancés, arrives on the scene, and Lum and Ataru have to repeat their game of tag in order to prevent the Earth from being destroyed.All Ataru has to do to win is say "I love you" the three words he has steadfastly refused to say to Lum. Will he admit his true feelings and save the Earth? Or will his pride doom it to destruction?What a mess. Let's make a twin and repeat the confusion over and over and over and over and over again. Horrible end of the series.Overall Rating: 5/1017.Lady Lady!! (1988)レディレディ!! (1988) [1988-I]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoDramaWhen Rin's mother dies, she makes the promise that some day she will become a Lady, and travels to England to meet the rest of the family. She is not very welcomed (specially at the start by her stepsister Sara), but after some time they are all a happy family. Rin (Lynn) is also very interested in horses and racing, and she wins a nice share of contests.This series is divided into two parts, first with Rin being really a child, and the second with her being around 13.The whole recap of kid Lynn only takes some 25 mins... fulfils its role as recap and confirms that there was not much substantial content in first season.Overall Rating: 5/1018.City Hunter 2シティーハンター2 [1988-II]Sunrise (Dropped 5/63)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, MysteryRyo Saeba is a "sweeper" know as the City Hunter. He and his sidekick Kaori Makimura are hired to solve problems that the police can't (or won't) handle. When he's not keeping the streets of Tokyo clean, Ryo is chasing the ladies, and Kaori chases after him with a giant anti-ecchi hammer.It's become a bit better, and it seems to be coming a bit close to EVE Burst Error concept, but not sure it will ever be there . So far, still no desire to watch it further.Overall Rating: 5/1019.Yoroiden Samurai TroopersRonin Warriors 鎧伝サムライトルーパー [1988-II]Sunrise (Dropped 3/39)Tags:ShounenSamuraiAdventure, Sci-FiThousands of years ago, the evil emperor Talpa attempted to conquer the Earth. Defeated, he was banished to the Nether Realm and his armor was divided into 9 separate suits. Now, he has returned to conquer Earth, having reclaimed 4 of the suits. The other 5 are in the possesion of those who are the only hope of stopping him: The Ronin Warriors.Concept is pretty close to that of power rangers. Add to that that five heroes are very young, probably just entered middle school, and the score would become evident.Overall Rating: 4/1020.Hello! Lady Lynnハロー! レディリン [1988-I] Toei Animation(Dropped 0/36)Tags:ShoujoDramaThis is the second series of Lady Lady. Every year at Lynn's school, an honorable “Lady Quest” is given to the most sophisticated lady. Lynn strives to receive this honor.Not translated, and I'm not going to watch untranslated Shoujo.Overall Rating: 0/1021.FＦ-エフ [1988-II] Studio Deen (Dropped 3/31)Tags:ShounenRacingGunma Akagi, a teenager from the countryside, frequently causes a ruckus with his turbocharged tractor, much to the chagrin of his father, aspiring politician Souichirou Akagi, who urges the family to set a good example to ensure his success.One night, while Gunma is driving his tractor on the highway with his best friend Tamotsu Oishi, the two are suddenly overtaken by a speeding car. Gunma interprets this as a challenge and tries to outpace his opponent, only to fail in a spectacular fashion. The defeat sparks a fire within him, and Gunma becomes determined to win against this mysterious foe at all costs. Soon after, he leaves the peaceful countryside behind and moves to the bustling city, aiming to become the next Formula One star!I'm not sure what kind of racing I can liked. This one is pretty straightforward F1 racing with a mouthful redneck as protagonist, and no quantity of comedy can mend an anime with a poor protagonist and weak concept.Overall Rating: 4/1022.Transformers: Choujin Master ForceTransformers Super-God Masterforceトランスフォーマー・超神マスターフォース [1988-II]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/43)Tags:ShounenMechaAdventure, Sci-FiEven though the Decepticons have been driven off Earth, a small team of Autobot Pretenders have remained behind, just in case. Led by Metalhawk ("Hawk" in his human identity), the Pretenders live among the humans, using their Pretender shells to assume human size and appearance. The Autobots' caution is rewarded: Decepticon Pretenders soon appear, led by a mysterious force called Devil Z. The Autobots and Decepticons soon build up their forces, recruiting humans to become Junior Headmasters and Godmasters (Powermasters).Of course I sampled it, but it has not become better since my childhood.Overall Rating: 4/1023.Chouon Senshi Borgman超音戦士ボーグマン [1988-II]Production Reed (Dropped 3/35)Tags:MythologyAction, Sci-FiSonic Soldier Borgman is a science fiction that combines super sentai with non-gattai. It features a sentai-like three members team that fight an organization known as Youma. Features three characters with three basic ranger colors: Pink, Blue and Green. Featuring three main characters: Chuck, Ryo and Anise, Ryo is the leader, Chuck and Anise are teachers at a public school. Sometimes, the students help or make troubles to the Borgman somehow, some even know the Borgman secret identities. Ryo has a talking "modern" blue motorcycle that can upgrade itself. The transformation code is "Borg. Get On". Each member has a personal cannon that matches his/her armor color that appears only to finish the monster they fight.Adult cast is the only advantage of this sentai anime. Otherwise pretty standard and simple with evil emperor ec.Overall Rating: 5/1024.Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru魔神英雄伝ワタル [1988-II]Sunrise (Dropped 3/43)Tags:ShounenMechaAdventure, Comedy, Sci-FiA 9-year-old boy named Wataru Ikusabe is magically transported to a magical realm of the gods called Soukaizan which he is supposed to save. In his quest to save the realm, he manages to transform a clay sculpture into a somewhat autonomous (small) Super Robot.Mecha positions are still strong, but fantasy advances... so it's another weird example of mecha in fantasy world of swordfights. The distinguishing feature of anime is chibi SD designs of almost everything including enemies and robots. It looked a lot like Dragon Ball copycat to me, but with appearance of Himiko that looks almost exactly like Bluma, it became evident. Even round pearl is used as weapon. Basically,Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru is Dragon Ball like experience with more parody and antics as Sunrise signature. Personally, I like Dragon Ball humor more.Overall Rating: 5/1025.Moeru! OniisanThe Burning Wild Man燃える！お兄さん [1988-II]Pierrot (Dropped 3/24)Tags:Action, Adventure, ComedyWhen Kenichi Kokuho was a small boy, he was lost in the mountains and never found. However, unknown to anyone, Kenichi has been brought up by his foster father in the wild. When Kenichi becomes 15 years old, his foster father tells him the truth about his background. As he finds out, Kenichi decides to go to a civilized society where his parents live.Everything Kenichi experiences in the town is a series of surprise and wonder. His family is delighted to see their son alive, but shocked at the fact that he has become wild and different from other children. And now, his new life is about to begin.His wild attitude and physical toughness cause various problems in the town. Kenichi has his own way to handle things, but it is too different for the most people to understand what he is up to. Can he get used to life in the town?There was already a more charismatic old anime about a wild boy coming to town. I see this anime as comedy slot filler as without normal story there's yet another episodic setting to exploit. Comedy is ok.Overall Rating: 5/1026.What's Michael?(TV)ホワッツマイケル? [1988-II]Daume (Finished 0/45)Tags:PetsComedyMichael is a fat orange cat who lives with a pair of well-meaning but very stupid humans who fondly imagine he is their pet. But Michael's own daily life is rich in all kinds of little incidents and upheavals-avoiding local bad cat Nyazilla, a monster against whom Michael knows he'll always come out worse, scrounging food from local stores, meeting up with his animal friends, and keeping the humans amused as best he can. And Michael also has a fantasy life even his fellow feline Garfield would envy, with cat corporations, cat nightclubs, and his own imitation of a dancing American megastar also called Michael.Not translated, so why would I suffer. By OVA we all know what it is about.Overall Rating: 0/1027.Doctor Chichibuyamaドクター秩父山 [1988-II]Production Reed (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenParodyComedy, EcchiDr. Chichibuyama is the perverse head of a hospital way out in the mountains and terrorizes patients with the help of his lover and a sexy young nurse.Not translated it seems, a least to English. Ecchi gag comedy about doctor describes it pretty well. Each episode is about a dozen of short sketches as if just jumped from manga strip. OK'ish.Overall Rating: 4/1028.Ikinari Dagonいきなりダゴン [1988-II]Nippon Animation (Dropped 3/12)Tags:Adventure, FantasyDagon's little rocket crashes into a beautiful, blue planet and lands on a bed of green weeds. He quickly becomes friends with all kinds of creatures: Zipzap Mantis, General Ant Garibaldi, Andy Ant, Doctor Marilyn Wasp, and many more. Needless to say they are all insects. Insects? Yes, Dagon is only one centimetre tall!The tiny residents of the land of weeds become curious about the identity of this stranger from another planet. But when Dagon saves them from the danger posed by their ferocious enemies, Gulpo Toad and Godzi Lizard, everyone thinks Dagon is a SUPER-BUG!This planet is also home to a number of creatures that are very terrifying to these little fellows. They are called the Sapiens, or the human beings. Dagon must confront these massive creatures in order to get his rocket back from them!So begins Dagon's funny and thrilling adventure on Earth...Not translated. It feels very similar to the previous series about bees as it's all about insects and toads, and there's constant need to save some insects like bees from toads... can't call it fun at all.Overall Rating: 4/1029.Kidou Keisatsu PatlaborPatlabor: The Mobile Police機動警察パトレイバー [1988-II]Studio Deen (Finished 7/7)Tags:Detective, MechaComedy, Sci-FiAs the human race evolves, so does its technology. Engineers have successfully created robots dubbed "Labors" for mass distribution, utilized by society for a number of everyday tasks. However, there are criminals who manage to get their hands on these Labors, using them for their own nefarious means.To combat this new form of delinquency, police around the world begin using "Patrol Labors" or "Patlabors" to put a stop to Labor-related crimes. Rookie police officer Noa Izumi is drafted into a special Patlabor unit, getting her own mechanical suit to fight crime. Naming this machine Alphonse, Izumi works tirelessly alongside her peers to keep civilization safe from those who would use this advanced technology to harm others.As Izumi becomes further ingrained within her unit, she must also learn how to navigate both her social and professional spheres with grace and wit. She befriends the aloof Asuma Shinohara, fellow pilot Isao Oota, and the other members of her brigade as she helps them to combat conspiratorial plots, workplace revolts, and supernatural beings.What a mess. Why mecha police action is mostly about genetics and ghost incidents. First four episodes are absolutely horrible chaotic comedy stories with open endings, by 5th episode they remember that the ending is close, so introduce serious episodes suddenly to fix impression. Bigger half of episodes is a mess, try better in a movie.Overall Rating: 5/1030.Appleseedアップル・シード [1988-II]Gainax (Finished 1/1)Tags:Detective, MechaAction, Adventure, Sci-FiAppleseed takes place in the aftermath of World War III, where the General Management Control Office has constructed the experimental city known as Olympus. Built to be a paradise on Earth, Olympus is inhabited by humans, cyborgs, and bioroids (genetically engineered humans designed for increased physical capabilities and decreased emotional capabilities). Bioroids run and control all of the administrative functions of Olympus, ensuring that the city remains the utopian society it was meant to be for all of its citizens. But for some people living in Utopia, the city has become less of a home and more of a cage.Police officer Calon Mautholos has grown to despise Olympus following his wife's suicide, blaming her death on the lack of creative freedom caused by the rules binding the citizens of the city. As his hatred for the city grows, Calon conspires with the terrorist A.J. Sebastian to destroy the Legislature of the Central Management Bureau to send the rules of Olympus that killed his wife tumbling down. But when Calon discovers it is not political malcontent, but rather hatred for bioroids that motives Sebastian, Calon turns renegade and gains the attention of city officials. Deunan Knute and her partner Briareos of the ESWAT counter-terrorism unit are dispatched to hunt down and stop Calon and Sebastian... by any means necessary!Good setting setter, but as a story... too little.Overall Rating: 6/1031.Dominionドミニオン [1988-II]Agent 21 (Finished 4/4)Tags:Detective, MechaComedy, Sci-FiLeona Ozaki joins Newport City's infamous Tank Police division. With aid of Al and her newly built mini-tank, Bonaparte, she wages war on Buaku and his cohorts, the Puma Sisters.Wow, third anime about mechanized police in a row. Not bad overall, but the fact that police tries to catch same three bandits (plus a new one from the 3rd ep) blowing everything aroundeach time makes all leftover seriousness obsolete. Oh, and torture is not fun. In any way.Overall Rating: 4/1032.Project A-Ko 3: Cinderella RhapsodyプロジェクトA子3 シンデレララプソディ [1988-II]Studio Fantasia(Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, Super PowerAction, Comedy, Sci-FiIn the middle of another break from school, A-Ko dreams of finding the perfect boyfriend. Because of this, she and C-Ko get into an argument that leads to C-Ko running away and nearly getting hit by a motorcyclist named Kei. While working part-time at a fast-food restaurant to raise money for a party dress, A-Ko meets Kei and immediately falls in love with him. B-Ko happens to like him as well; however, both A-Ko and B-Ko are unaware that C-Ko is the apple of Kei's eyes.Don't know how they manage to do it, but with every new movie it gets only worse.Overall Rating: 4/1033.KujakuouSpirit Warrior 孔雀王 [1988-II]AIC(Finished 3/3)Tags:MythologyAction, HorrorA young mystic without a past, Kujaku was born under a dark omen possessed of incredible supernatural powers. Raised by priests, he has learned to use these powers for good. But the evil Siegfried von Mittgard seeks to steal his birthright, and rule the world as the Regent of Darkness. He has dispatched bloodthirsty minions to destroy Kujaku before he can awaken to his destiny. Now, Kujaku must unravel the riddle of his past, before the power within consumes him!Just action about magical martial artists. Definitely not for everyone.Overall Rating: 5/1034.Tokyo ViceThe Tokyo Projectトウキョウ・バイス [1988-II]J.C.Staff (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAction, Mystery, Sci-FiOne night at a rock concert, a mysterious man dies while leaving a floppy disc with a member of the Rutz Detective Agency. Soon they realize the disk contains information about a deadly new weapon under development. The heroes become involved in a game of political subterfuge and military espionage, hot on the trail of the killer!Super boring detective action...Overall Rating: 5/1035.Antique Heartアンティークハート [1988-II]J.C.Staff (Finished 1/1)Tags:SchoolMysteryThere's an old decrepit building at the edge of the school grounds that hasn't been used for years, and it falls apart a little bit more each day. But the little house holds a secret, as Takahiro and his friends are soon to find out...they wind up making contact with a mysterious entity known as Saki. Can Takahiro save Saki's world from destruction.Not translated. There's not much more than saving the old school building where ghost lives.Overall Rating: 4/1036.Akai Koudan Zillion: Utahime YakyokuZillion: Burning Nigh赤い光弾ジリオン歌姫夜曲 [1988-II] Production I.G(Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Sci-FiIn the peaceful aftermath of the Nozsa wars, the charismatic heroes known as "The White Knights" have changed career paths to becoming music making rockstars. J.J., Dave, Champ and Apple have formed a rock band called, "The White Nuts". Their music career would soon be interrupted by a new threat of colonial settlers. Apple is kidnapped by the sadistic ODAMA Clan - a family of ruthless killers. Located in a heavily-fortified mountain retreat, J.J. and company attempt a rescue mission with their laser weapon Zillion. But the former Knights only have a limited supply of Zillium for the Zillion guns. A mysterious stranger named Rick turns out to be an old lover of Apple.My recollections of the first three episodes fit poorly with the inner conflict of this OVA, guess only for franchise fans.Overall Rating: 5/1037.Mahjong Hishouden: Naki no Ryuu麻雀飛翔伝哭きの竜 [1988-II]Gainax, Magic Bus (Finished 3/3)Tags:SeinenOrganized Crime, Strategy GameAction, DramaThe protagonist, Ryuu or Crying Dragon, is a mysterious man who often plays games with the gang members. He only wins by "ron," a move in which one needs to wait for the opponent's tile to complete the win.*"Ron" is also called "naki" in mahjong, which has the same pronunciation as "crying" in JapaneseNot translated. Given that I don't understand a thing in Mahjong, watching Ryuu finishing with Ron and yakuza getting killed afterwards was not a fun thing at all..Overall Rating: 4/1038.Rokushin Gattai GodMars: Juunana-sai no Densetsu六神合体ゴッドマーズ十七歳の伝説 [1988-II]Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, SpaceAction, Sci-FiMarg was deprived his little brother, Mars, by Zure, and lost his parents. Therefore, he was living alone on the planet, Gishin. He became a member of guerrilla to riot against the dictator Zure, and he fell in love with Ruru, the daughter of the leader, Ura. However, the organization was destroyed. He was trapped by Zure, and he was brainwashed to become a soldier. Then, his long cherished wish that he would meet his brother again was realized… as a duel with him.Gaia, God Mars, and the Gishin robot Zeron receive redesigns although the OVA mostly focuses on an alternate telling of Marg's life on Gishin up until the events of episode 19.Since it focuses on alternative ending there's nothing to do here without finishing TV series.Overall Rating: 4/1039.Abe George Kattobi Seishun Ki: Shibuya Honky Tonk安部譲二かっとび青春記渋谷ホンキィトンク [1988-II]Tokuma Japan (Finished 4/4)Tags:Drama, EcchiThis story is based on one of the famous Japanese writers "George Abe"'s troubled boyhood. Although he was born in wealthy family, he starts keeping company with yakuza...Protagonist is participating in risky yakuza activities and having fun with a lot of women in between. Nothing original here .Overall Rating: 4/1040.Zukkoke Sannin-gumi: Zukkoke Jikuu Boukenズッコケ三人組　ズッコケ時空冒険 [1988-II]Tama Production (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalComedy, Sci-FiThree reporters from the school paper get transported back to the Edo period.Not translated. There seems to also untranslated series later on. 40% is school life before time travel, and all that's there to do in the remaining time is get to past, get some adventures and get back while getting explanation from time patrol member. Not great.Overall Rating: 4/1041.Tonari no TotoroMy Neighbor Totoroとなりのトトロ [1988-II]Studio Ghibli (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, SupernaturalIn 1950s Japan, Tatsuo Kusakabe relocates himself and his two daughters, Satsuki and Mei, to the countryside to be closer to their mother, who is hospitalized due to long-term illness. As the girls grow acquainted with rural life, Mei encounters a small, bunny-like creature in the yard one day. Chasing it into the forest, she finds "Totoro"—a giant, mystical forest spirit whom she soon befriends. Before long, Satsuki too meets Totoro, and the two girls suddenly find their lives filled with magical adventures in nature and fantastical creatures of the woodWatched it for the second time now and got a clear impression that it's only for kids. I can acknowledge music, impact and visualization of myths, but can't say I enjoyed it now after a lot of years.Overall Rating: 7/1042.Hotaru no HakaGrave of the Fireflies火垂るの墓 [1988-II]Studio Ghibli (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaAs World War II reaches its conclusion in 1945, Japan faces widespread destruction in the form of American bombings, devastating city after city. Hotaru no Haka, also known as Grave of the Fireflies, is the story of Seita and his sister Setsuko, two Japanese children whose lives are ravaged by the brutal war. They have lost their mother, their father, their home, and the prospect of a bright future—all tragic consequences of the war.Now orphaned and homeless, Seita and Setsuko have no choice but to drift across the countryside, beset by starvation and disease. Met with the apathy of adults along the way, they find that desperate circumstances can turn even the kindest of people cruel yet their youthful hope shines brightly in the face of unrelenting hardship, preventing the siblings from swiftly succumbing to an inevitable fate.Gen did a lot of things right, but the impact was still on detonation, although detonation counted mere percentage of victims. Also we as viewers never got to like the people who die, even Gen family members. Grave of the Fireflies basically uses a more psychological approach to hit in the most painful pressure points of viewers. Painful, but important and meaningful.Overall Rating: 8/1043.Tekken ChinmiIron Fist Chinmi鉄拳チンミ [1988-III]Production Reed (Dropped 3/20)Tags:ShounenHistorical, Martial ArtsChinmi is a young Chinese boy devoted to martial arts training. Word of his skill reaches the kung-fu masters at the famous Dailin temple who invite him to study with them. Through his own dedication and the guidance of his teachers, Chinmi becomes one of the top students at the temple. Eventually, the time comes for him to leave Dailin and make a pilgrimage. On his journey he faces a number of dangers that test his skills, but he also meets many people who inspire him in different ways. A chastened but determined Chinmi returns to Dailin for advanced training. But soon his skills are needed again—the Mongol hordes are nearing the temple.Not translated. Another wanna be Dragon ball as there is a super strong martial artist, companions including a girl and significant tilt into comedy. Another imitator Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru looked better than this one.Overall Rating: 5/1044.Kyuuketsuhime MiyuVampire Princess Miyu吸血姫美夕 [1988-III]AIC (Finished 4/4)Tags:ShoujoMythology, VampireAction, Drama, HorrorA quiet gothic horror story about a vampire girl, Miyu, whose destiny it is to hunt down murderous demons known as Shinma and return them to their land of origin, the Dark. Miyu is pursued by the Spiritualist Himiko, determined to find out who Miyu is and to stop her from sucking the life blood from helpless humans. Each of the four episodes chronicle one of Miyu's encounters with a Shinma and the humans that it is affecting, from the perspective of Himiko's pursuit of Miyu.I don't like horrors and vampires in general as a thing. There's a spiritualist who never faced anything supernatural, a good mysterious vampire princess Miyu and different baddie each time, usually vampire, but not only vampires. All the dark colors , malicious intents and violence make it almost unwatchable for me.Overall Rating: 4/1045.Deimos no Hanayome: Ran no Kumikyoku悪魔の花嫁蘭の組曲 [1988-III](Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoMythology, PsychologicalDrama, Fantasy, Horror, Mystery, SupernaturalTwo siblings were happy on Mt. Olympus, until they fell in love. Deimo's sister Venus got imprisoned in the Swamp of Death. To save Venus's life, he must find a human reincarnation so that they can continue their love.Another horror mystery shoujo with dominating red and black colors. It feels very bad for me .Overall Rating: 4/1046.Ace wo Nerae! 2エースをねらえ！２ [1988-III]TMS Entertainment(Dropped 3/13)Tags:ShoujoDrama, SportsThree years has passed since the events of the first series. Hiromi continued training with her coach and became Japan's junior champion. Their common profits have also contributed to the coach being chosen as the first trainer of the Japanese Selection of Tennis and is arranged to head a trip with the youngest members of the team to USA. The relation between Hiromi and its trainer is narrower at personal level but it exceeds the teacher-student bond with great difficulty.Good to see sequel of the first real shoujo, Oba is a junior champion, but still can't beat Miss Butterfly and still can't find common language with coach, so show tries to exploit old paths. Guess only for those who did not have enough of Ace wo Nerae.Overall Rating: 5/1047.Kosuke-sama Rikimaru-sama: Konpeitou no Ryuu小助さま力丸さま-コンペイ島の竜- [1988-III]J.C.Staff (Finished 1/1)Tags:Super PowerAction, AdventureKosukesama Rikimarusama: Konpeito no Ryu was a 45 minute long anime TV special produced by J.C. Staff and broadcast on Japanese television in 1988. Similar to Dragon Ball, it was a martial arts adventure story featuring villains that could have stepped out of the Red Ribbon Army, typical Toriyama mecha, and a clone of Son Gohan's Haiya Dragon.This is indeed a clone up to small details. Not as good as original, but humor is good and characters are nice, so why not.Overall Rating: 5/1048.Watt Poe to Bokura no OhanashiWatt Poeワット・ボーとぼくらのお話 [1988-III]Kaname Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Sci-FiJam lives in a small coastal village that lives off fish that men bring home every day. One day his grandfather tells him that in recent year the fishing has been scarce. The steel hawks who live nearby on the mountain have kidnapped Watt Poe, a narwhal who is said to be the great protector of the sea, thus depriving the fishermen of his blessing. The boy decides to climb the mountain with the intention of bringing Watt Poe back to the sea...Story gets seriously more complicated than just climbing a mountain, but it's still rather average action adventure.Overall Rating: 5/1049.Gensei Shugoshin P-hyoro Ikka OVA現世守護神ぴーひょろ一家 OVA [1988-III]Bandai Visual (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShoujoAdventure, FantasyBased on Kaori Kimeki's fantasy manga serialized in "Princess" magazine.Main quiestion for me was why it is called shoujo at all. The reason is that protagonists are pictured in shoujo style, 4th sibling is actually a brow-haired girl, and problems arising are shoujo-themed if I can say so. Overall, just some youkai cases.Overall Rating: 5/1050.Touyama Sakura Uchuu Chou: Yatsu no Na wa GoldSamurai Gold 遠山桜宇宙帖・奴の名はゴールド [1988-III]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Sci-FiThis science-fiction anime was inspired somewhat by the life of Kinshiro Toyama (1793-1855), who was first popularized in the 1893 kabuki play "Toyama no Kinsan."Protagonist is a samurai with a laser sword. Assassins are being sent after him, and through that he unmasks a big conspiracy. But with current super blurry hardsubs anime is almost unwatchable due to eye pain.Overall Rating: 5/1051.Namakemono ga Mitetaナマケモノが見てた [1988-III]Agent 21 (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenComedyBased off a manga by Murakami Takashi that was serialized in Weekly Young Jump.Not translated. This is a rapid-fire series of gags and comedic skits with an all-animal cast. It's really not fun to watch gag comedy without translation, but among this genre representatives current anime is rather average.Overall Rating: 5/1052.AkiraAKIRA（アキラ） [1988-III]Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenGore, MilitaryJapan, 1988. An explosion caused by a young boy with psychic powers tears through the city of Tokyo and ignites the fuse that leads to World War III. In order to prevent any further destruction, he is captured and taken into custody, never to be heard from again. Now, in the year 2019, a restored version of the city known as Neo-Tokyo—an area rife with gang violence and terrorism against the current government—stands in its place. Here, Shoutarou Kaneda leads "the Capsules," a group of misfits known for riding large, custom motorcycles and being in constant conflict with their rivals "the Clowns."During one of these battles, Shoutarou's best friend Tetsuo Shima is caught up in an accident with an esper who finds himself in the streets of Tokyo after escaping confinement from a government institution. Through this encounter, Tetsuo begins to develop his own mysterious abilities, as the government seeks to quarantine this latest psychic in a desperate attempt to prevent him from unleashing the destructive power that could once again bring the city to its knees.I can be subjective towards Cyberpunk, but yeah, this is a firm masterpiece for me. I watched it just couple years ago, but I managed to forget how many characters and lines there are here. Akira is wonderfully done visually, very rich animation that is probably not possible today already. It has genius visual moves. Despite Tetsuo having not the most stable personality, there are a lot of absolutely serious , rational and and intelligent characters here. The pace of this anime is twice higher than the average one. It's also a very bitter story about revolution and corruption. Most importantly, Akira is the first representative of half sane, half crazy settings of 1990s in contrast to just avangardist insanity seen before already , e.g. Neo Tokyo . The only remaining question is why not higher score - the answer is because it should deliver real intellectual pleasure for it. Great experience nonetheless - and that's what matters .Overall Rating: 8/1053.Dragon Ball Movie 3: Makafushigi Daiboukenドラゴンボール摩訶不思議大冒険 [1988-III]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenSuper PowerAction, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiEmperor Chiaotzu's wife has gone missing, and he is told by Master Shen that if he collects the seven dragon balls he can call upon the eternal dragon and wish for her return. Meanwhile, Goku and Krillin attend the World Martial Arts Tournament, which is hosted by the Emperor; Bora and his son Upa attempt to hide the dragon ball they found from the emperor's forces, which are under the control of the evil Shen and General Tao; and Bulma conducts her own search for the dragon balls with the help of Yamcha, Puar, and Oolong.Another 40 minutes with mostly parodies. It's all very weird and unintegral.Overall Rating: 5/1054.Sakigake!! Otokojuku MovieCharge!! Men's Private School魁!!男塾 [1988-III]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenDelinquents, Martial Arts, SchoolAction, ComedyOtokojuku, a private school for juvenile delinquents that were previously expelled from normal schools. At this school, Japanese chivalry is taught through the feudal and military fundamentals. Similar to an action film, the classes are overwhelmed by violence. Only those who survive it become true men.I like only humor in Sakigake and hoped for humorous movie. Instead, it's one competition arc with lots of fights, survival, action and really little humor. The result is evident.Overall Rating: 5/1055.Hi no Ame ga Furu火の雨がふる [1988-III]Mushi Production (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaAn anti-war anime based on a book containing contemporary accounts of the fire-bombing of the city of Fukuoka on the evening of June 19, 1945.Not translated. Style is very similar to Gen. Fukuoka had only conventional bombing, so anime tries to go the way of Graveyard of Fireflies by presenting a friendship in development and finishes with the bombing that causes very few casualties in the aime. A lot less impact than both previous titles.Overall Rating: 5/1056.Shirahata no Shoujo Ryuuko白旗の少女琉子 [1988-III]Magic Bus (Dropped 0/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaIn 1945, American troops land on the island of Okinawa. The Japanese fight a guerrilla war against the invaders, and little Ryuko is forced to leave her grandparents behind and flee with her mother and younger sister, who are eventually killed. Ryuko heads on alone across the war-torn island. Eventually she reaches safety in Japanese-occupied caves, only to witness the Japanese troops committing suicide with hand grenades. Based on a children's book by Akira Aratagawa and Hikuji Norima, itself inspired by real American footage of an Okinawan girl, Tomiko Higa, waving a white flag at the island's surrender.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1057.Natsufuku no Shoujo-tachi夏服の少女たち [1988-III]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaIn 1945, the second and third-year students of a Hiroshima girls' school are taken away to work in war factories. The remaining 220 girls of the first year try to make the best of their new-found status as the only teenagers in an almost deserted town, even amid the deprivations of wartime. On the 7th of August, an American bomber changes their lives forever. Broadcast on the 43rd anniversary of Hiroshima in memory of "the girls who lost their lives to the atom bomb."Not translated. First minutes of anime is live action with explanation right away that girls died while clearing debris when building demolished above them. During the course of 34 minutes animated strips of girls life is interrupted by live action even with interview several more times. Too short and unintegral to recomend.Overall Rating: 5/1058.Oishinbo美味しんぼ [1988-IV]Shin-Ei Animation (Dropped 3/136)Tags:SeinenComedy, Gourmet, Slice of LifeOishinbo is a drama about newspaper reporters. The main character is a cynical food critic named Yamaoka. Oishinbo is a popular mainstream comic for adults in Japan. It is even mentioned in an episode of "Iron Chef."Ajikko had a success last year, so why not to shoot another culinary show. Oishinbo is only food for the goofy unfocused protagonist, but Ajikko is better in all other fields .Overall Rating: 5/1059.3 Choume no Tama: Uchi no Tama Shirimasen ka?Tama of Third Street: Have You Seen My Tama?3丁目のタマうちのタマ知りませんか? [1988-IV]Group TAC(Dropped 3/36)Tags:PetsAdventureThe characters are Tama, Momo, Wocket, Tiggle, Rockney, Pimmy, Bupkus, Bengpu, and Chopin. There is no consistent plot. Tama and his friends just have little, family friendly, adventures every episode. The only consistency is when a new friend is made one episode and flash backs.The only question I have is why it is not marked as kids show... I guess, it's because there are also kids who even go to school with pets, but pets are still main characters, and it's still a kids show.Overall Rating: 5/1060.Himitsu no Akko-chan 2ひみつのアッコちゃん２ [1988-IV]Toei Animation(Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoSchoolAkko-chan is a bright and energetic 5th grader in elementary school whose father is a newscaster and mother is a picture-book writer. Akko always cherishes the palm-sized mirror that was given to her by her father and treats it with care. However, the mirror was accidentally broken by her absent-minded mother. On a night where a beautiful full-moon hangs in the sky, Akko-chan buries the mirror pieces in the garden and goes to sleep. She is awakened by a soft and kind voice which belongs to the Queen of the Mirror Kingdom. She sends her gratitiude to Akko-chan for cherishing the mirror with care and offers her a magical compact mirror. Whenever she sings the magical words, Akko-chan will be able to transform into anything she wants.1960s had so many nice magical girl series, but Himitsu no Akko-chan was not one of them even then, so why this one gets a sequel... just heavy exploitation of magical mirror to change image constantly to create supposed to be funny situations.Overall Rating: 4/1061.Hai! Akko Desuハーイあっこです [1988-IV]Eiken(Finished 0/164)Tags:Romance, Slice of LifeThe story follows the daily life of a Akko-chan who is a new young wife.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1062.Meimon! Daisan YakyuubuMeimon! The Third Baseball Club名門！第三野球部 [1988-IV]Fuji TV(Dropped 1/40)Tags:ShounenAction, SportsAsunaro is a new student at a school with three baseball teams; the first is renowned as being one of the best in the prefecture, but the third, Asunaro’s team, is filled with the rejects and unskilled of the baseball world. As the baseball instructor deems them to be nothing but trash, he informs the team that they will be disbanded in one month – that is, until one of the players begs him to let them play a single game. They’ll be up against the first team, and if they win, they’ll get to take over the title and even work their way towards playing at Koshien Stadium. With the help of Kaido, an ex-member of the first team, Asunaro and his friends will do whatever it takes to show they’re more than meets the eye!Just one episode seems to be translated. Another story of losers trying hard to beat the ace team.Overall Rating: 5/1063.Top wo Nerae! GunbusterGunbusterトップをねらえ！ GunBuster [1988-IV]Gainax(Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMecha, Military, SpaceAction, Comedy, Drama, Sci-FiIn the near future, humanity has taken its first steps towards journeying into the far reaches of the galaxy. Upon doing so they discover a huge race of insectoid aliens known as "Space Monsters." These aliens seem dedicated to the eradication of mankind as they near closer and closer to discovering Earth. In response, humanity develops giant fighting robots piloted by hand-picked youth from around the world.Shortly after the discovery of the aliens, Noriko Takaya, the daughter of a famous deceased space captain, enters a training school despite her questionable talents as a pilot. There, she meets her polar opposite, the beautiful and talented Kazumi Amano, and is unexpectedly made to work together with her as they attempt to overcome the trauma of war as well as their own emotions.Gainax are great experimentators. Could you ever imagine a shounen with all-girl cast with a coach? And it's definitely closer to shounen than shoujo even with the inner female protagonist. For a long time I thought that I could not enjoy mecha because of all the seriousness, e.g. lack of non-antics comedy and fan-service. This is finally mecha with human face, enough nice humor, drama and fan-service. Thanks to this show we got Evangelion and Gurren Lagann and not thanks to two decades of tasteless bland mecha. I was able to enjoyGunbuster to an extent, but not as a masterpiece .Overall Rating: 6/1064.Makai Toshi ShinjukuDemon City Shinjuku魔界都市〈新宿〉 [1988-IV]Madhouse(Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenGoreAdventure, Horror, Romance, SupernaturalKyoya's father was a great warrior, killed at the hands of the diabolical psychic, Rebi Ra, who has now opened a portal to hell in the city of Shinjuku. It falls to Kyoya to finish what his father started and battle his way through demons, while protecting a young woman from harm. The only problem is that he's not exactly your classic hero type, and his powers are still latent.I expected a lot more from Madhouse OVA. Lots of one tone backgrounds, reddish colors , enemies showing up right from walls or from the ground, not impressive plot. Just can't recommend this.Overall Rating: 4/1065.Crying FreemanCryingフリーマン [1988-IV]Toei Animation(Finished 6/6)Tags:Seinen Detective, Martial Arts, Organized CrimeAction, Drama, RomanceYo Hinomura was an ordinary Japanese potter when a run-in with a Chinese mafia changed his life forever. Now an assassin for the 108 Dragons, Yo is the perfect killing machine. As a sign for remorse over his victims, he sheds tears after eliminating his targets. Because of this, he is infamously known by the Dragons and every crime syndicate in the world as "Crying Freeman."If there is one thing needed to know about this anime is that it's Ecchi, no idea why it's not covered in tags. Too much nonsense and contradictions. Reminded me Wounded Man/Kizuoibito in a lot of ways.Overall Rating: 4/1066.Violence Jack: Jigoku Gai-henViolence Jack: Evil Townバイオレンスジャック〜地獄街編〜 [1988-IV]Studio 88(Finished 1/1)Tags:GoreAction, Drama, HorrorThe World as we know it has been torn apart shattered by a series of natural disasters that have turned civilization into a brutish nightmare of survival and has left whole cities buried beneath the Earth. It's now a lethal and chaotic place, a place where only the strongest and most savage remain alive. The strongest of them all is a giant warrior known as Violence Jack…Violence Jack tries to avert a civil war brewing among the wretched inhabitants of a subterranean metropolis called Evil Town. Based on a character created by manga horror specialist, Go Nagai.Second part of the trilogy. And another forgotten use of Ecchi tag that is everywhere in this series. Jack starts to talk in this one, but setting is much less believable now. Basically, it starts to look a lot like Hokuto no Ken spinoff with masculine giants fighting and pawns exploding like watermelons. Not recommended.Overall Rating: 4/1067.Kikou Ryohei Mellowlink機甲猟兵メロウリンク [1988-IV]Sunrise(Dropped 3/12)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryAction, Sci-FiAs the sole survivor from a squad that was sacrificed and hung out as scapegoats for embezzlement of military resources at the end of the 100 years war, Mellowlink Arity is out for revenge.Carrying the dogtags of his deceased comrades and armed with a dated anti AT rifle, he swears to hunt down and exact revenge on the corrupt officers that betrayed his squad, and maybe even uncover the truth behind the plot as well.If you liked Armored Trooper Votoms, you'll probably like this one. If you did not like that, there's basically no chance. I did not like that.Overall Rating: 5/1068.Uchuu no SenshiStarship Troopers 宇宙の戦士 [1988-IV]Sunrise(Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenSci-Fi Mecha, Military, SpaceJohnny Rico is a high school student living in Buenos Aires, who doesn't know what to do with his future life. When his friend Carl and his love Carmen, whom he grew up with, join the Federal Military, he does too enlist in the hope to chase after his love into space. However, a war is brewing on the outer planets with a strange bug-like alien enemy and Johnny is thrust into conflict.I'm a fan of Starship Troopers movie, but - to tell the truth - mostly because of majestic Denise Richards and great action visuals ... two things anime would not have. I'm shocked that half of the show is wasted on prologue and training. In episode 4 there was still no clash, just one-sided attack on the base while troopers were away. Episode 5 - nothing but cliffhanger. So actual action takes half of an episode - enjoy ! Cuz I could not .Overall Rating: 5/1069.Meiou Project ZeorymerHades Project Zeorymer冥王計画ゼオライマー [1988-IV]AIC(Finished 4/4)Tags:Mecha, PsychologicalAction, Drama, Sci-FiA young man named Akitsu Masato is captured by a secret govt. project known as "Last Guardian". He is told that his life as a normal student was all a lie, and that his real destiny is to be the pilot of a great robot called "Zeorymer of the Heavens". The truth of this is hammered in when Masato sees his parents accept payment for raising him. The Last Guardian is preparing for the resurrection of "Hau Dragon", an organization bent on world conquest. 15 years ago, Hau Dragon built 8 great robots. Each of the mecha represents a force of nature. However, before any of the robots could be used, their creater Kihara Masaki destroyed the robots except for the leader: Zeorymer. He took Zeorymer and an embryo to the government. The embryo became the boy Masato. Now, Hau Dragon has rebuilt the other 7 mecha and wants the 8th. It will be up to Masato and Himuro to pilot Zeorymer and fight against the Hau Dragon, but neither Masato or Himuro are all that they seem.Basically, an incredibly boring mecha without any clever intrigue going underneath.Overall Rating: 4/1070.One Pound Gospel１ポンドの福音 [1988-IV]Gallop(Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenComedy, Romance, SportsHatanaka Kosaku, a hopeful boxer, has a mean KO punch. Unfortunately, his dietary willpower is weak, and he eats even greasy hamburgers right before a bout. As a result, he has to compete in higher weight classes, and as soon as he takes an abdominal punch, he vomits, which causes him to lose the match in shame. As he tries to grapple with his weak will, he meets Sister Angela, a novitiate at a local convent. While Sister Angela strives to help Hatanaka in his endeavor, he seems to make her training to be a nun more difficult.Boxing and religion... I seriously hate both. Absolutely spineless moron for protagonist, no real humor, no lesson ever learned, pure waste of time.Overall Rating: 4/1071.Maison Ikkoku: Shiki Utsuriyuku Kisetsu no Naka deめぞん一刻～移りゆく季節の中で～ [1988-IV]Studio Deen(Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAdult CastComedy, Drama, RomanceA recap of the Maison Ikkoku series that focuses on the relationship between Godai and Kyoko. The entire special is taken from footage of the TV series.Good for me who did not finish the series. I still like comedy part of the show more, but I'm glad this recap exists.Overall Rating: 6/1072.Gall Force 3: Stardust Warガルフォース3 スターダスト・ウォー [1988-IV]AIC(Finished 1/1)Tags:Military, SpaceAction, Sci-FiThe girls are saved ... by none other than Catty Nebulart herself! Now, the race is on as Catty struggles to complete her crowning achievement: a huge machine that will bring life to a lifeless world!Yay, at least some kind of conclusion somewhere. Overall same level of confusion as previous parts.Overall Rating: 5/1073.Uchuu Kazoku Carlvinson宇宙家族カールビンソン [1988-IV]Doga Kobo(Finished 1/1)Tags:ChildcareComedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiWhen a motley band of traveling performers has a deep-space collision with another spacecraft, they find that the sole survivor of the other craft is a humanoid infant. They decide to raise the child as their own on the nearest planet as they wait for other members of the girl's race to come and find her.In one phrase - kids material. All kinds of aliens eat sweets, organize kindergarten, that kind of stuff.Overall Rating: 4/1074.Ryuu SeikiDragon Century 竜世紀 [1988-IV]AIC(Finished 2/2)Tags:MythologyAction, Fantasy, Sci-FiThe story of a young girl and a young dragon. Naturally, they are the best of friends, and naturally the rest of the world is against them both. However, when demons decide to trash their world, they side with those who have always been against them.First episode is basically just befriending a dragon, second has some fights, but nothing to remember.Overall Rating: 5/1075.Yousei OuFairy King妖精王 [1988-IV]Madhouse(Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoFantasyJack has moved to Hokkaido to get treatment for an illness, but he's lonely and unhappy. One night a man on a horse rides through his window to help him. For a reason he doesn't understand, Jack instantly knows the man's name and feels they've met somewhere before. The man, Cu Chulainn, tells Jack to open the moonlight shadow window, which leads him to Nymphidia, the world of Midsummer Night's Dream, whose inhabitants are waiting for a new Fairy KingArt style is very irritating for me, as well as subtle shounen-ai hints. Basially, all main characters are males, so can hardly call it a shoujo at all. As for me, very uncool to watch at fragile crying at any trifle protagonist.Overall Rating: 4/1076.Kimagure Orange☆Road: Ano Hi ni Kaeritaiきまぐれオレンジ★ロード　あの日にかえりたい [1988-IV]Pierrot(Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenComedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of LifeYears have passed since Kyousuke Kasuga became entangled in a love triangle with the childish Hikaru Hiyama and the elegant Madoka Ayukawa. Now in their final year of high school, Madoka and Kyousuke are thoroughly occupied preparing for their college entrance exams. Hikaru, not yet close to graduation, struggles with the realization that her two closest friends are leaving her. With the threat of separation looming over the horizon, Kyousuke is finally forced to decide who he loves—no matter how painful it may be.Pretty painful movie because of psycho Hikaru, so hate this situation of winning back at all cost.Overall Rating: 5/1077.Hiatari Ryoukou! Yume no Naka ni Kimi ga Ita陽あたり良好！ KA・SU・MI 夢の中に君がいた [1988-IV]Group TAC(Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Drama, RomanceThe movie starts out with Katsuhiko going to the US, with Kasumi and Yusaku seeing him off at Narita.Two years later, Katsuhiko is a professional racer, and comes back to Japan to race (and to marry Kasumi). Yusaku's hobby is photography.The worst epilogue compared to Maison Ikkoku and Orange road, but still nice to see where it all was going to.Overall Rating: 5/1078.Shinshuu Sudama-hen神州魑魅変 [1988-IV]Magic Bus(Finished 4/4)Tags:SeinenHistorical, Martial Arts, SamuraiAction“Shinshuu Sudama-hen” is a 4-episode OVA about a vein of gold ore called the “Golden Dragon,” whose location can only be discovered by “joining” (read: having intercourse) with a particular woman who has inherited the blood of the gods. In the beginning, a man is assassinated, but in his dying breath, he tells Kageshichiro, the hero, that his daughter, Kageshichiro’s childhood friend Orie, holds the key to the Golden Dragon.Not translated. Again ecchi tag is missing for some reason. Again very similar to Wounded man and Smiling freeman for the amount of gore, deaths, H events and also format of at least 4 OVA .Overall Rating: 3/10

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Anime of the Year 1989 - Venus Senki

By kivandopulus, September 2, 2022

Anime of the Year

First of all, with 100 titles after filtering this is getting totally unreadable, so from 1990 I'm moving to coverage per season rather than per year. In 1989 there were quite a few surprises for me as I could call as many as five titles borderline masterpiecesVenus Senki,Hoshi Neko Fullhouse,Majo no Takkyuubin,Tezuka Osamu Monogatari: Boku wa Son Gokuu,Assemble Insertwith first one turning my personal favorite from this list.1.Peter Pan no BoukenPeter Pan & Wendyピーターパンの冒険 [1989-I] Nippon Animation (Dropped 3/41)Tags:Adventure, FantasyWendy and her two little brothers are brought to the land of adventures, Neverland, by Peter pan, a boy who will never grow up. In Neverland they encounter exciting events and meet with little fairies, mermaids, Indians, and pirates. Required to act as a mother, Wendy never has a moments peace with all that is happening around her, including breath-taking fights with pirates. Later in the series, they set off to find a buried treasure with a map that they obtain from the pirates.Just kids stuff , really.Overall Rating: 5/102.Chinpuiチンプイ [1989-I]Shin-Ei Animation (Dropped 3/56)Tags:ComedyTV anime show based on the manga by F. Fujio Fujiko.Chinpui is a mouse-shaped alien, and it's basically Doraemon imitator with girl protagonist and this mascot. Just as in Doraemon, themes are too childish for me already.Overall Rating: 5/103.Obocchama-kunおぼっちゃまくん [1989-I]Shin-Ei Animation (Finished 3/164)Tags:ParodyComedyBased on the children's award winning manga by Kobayashi Yoshinori, serialized in Shogakukan's CoroCoro Comic.Not translated. And one more Doraemon imitator with small boy protagonist and a new classmate as if from another planet as he does not follow any social norms of behavior. As you can understand, children manga award is given for kids material, although I like to see social norms transgressed, so I'd gladly watch more episodes if they were translated.Overall Rating: 6/104.Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket機動戦士ガンダム 0080 ポケットの中の戦争 [1989-I]Sunrise (Finished 6/6)Tags:Mecha, Military, SpaceDrama, Sci-FiAlfred Izuruha is a 10-year-old who lives in the neutral colony cluster of Side 6 and, like most boys his age, is obsessed with the war between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon. Unbeknownst to him, Al's next-door neighbor, Christina, is the test pilot of a prototype Gundam being developed in secret by the Earth Federation in the colony. A Zeon Special Forces team is assembled and tasked with infiltrating the colony in order to either steal or destroy it.When a skirmish breaks out between the Federation and infiltrating Zeon forces, the fascinated Alfred stumbles upon a Zaku mobile suit that has been shot down, piloted by Zeon rookie Bernard "Bernie" Wiseman. After this encounter, the two start a mutual friendship, so Alfred can learn more about the war that interests him so much, and Bernie can acquire inside information about the colony to aid his team's mission.For some reason everything Gundam franchise touches gets worse than it would be without it. It's a good thing that franchise tries to introduce some human emotions even if done through spectator kid, but it's still done in the most conservative, rigid and boring way. I did not give masterpiece even to Gunbuster that is a much better example of human emotional drama in mecha.Overall Rating: 6/105.Riding Beanライディング・ビーン [1989-I] AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenDetective, RacingActionBean Bandit and his partner Rally Vincent are couriers for hire - transporting clients and delivering goods in his custom sports car "Roadbuster" for a hefty price. But when they are hired to escort a kidnapped girl named Chelsea to her home, they don't realize they're being framed for kidnapping as their former clients Semmerling and Carrie plan their escape with Chelsea's father and the ransom money.Better action and humor than expected, but not masterpiece material.Overall Rating: 6/106.Cipher[1989-I]Magic Bus (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoDramaTwo brothers are in the spotlight: one a movie star making a football movie, the other a musician who occasionally goes to school (to cover for his sibling). What will destiny bring them?It starts as a music clip with some one-line dialogues rarely showing up on the black screen, continues as animated ad, then as interview, then as movie trailer with dialogues on top of music, then again as a music clip, again an inerview, street poll and so on imitating a TV table ... if you think that a good story can be told this way, go ahead and give this a try. Let my score convey my opinion.Overall Rating: 4/107.Midnight Eye: GokuuMIDNIGHT EYE　ゴクウ [1989-I]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAction, Mystery, Sci-FiFurinji Goku is a detective who has an "eye of god".While he was investigating the murder case of his colleague when he had been an officer, he was pressured to stop it by the police executives. However, he continue investigating, and he lost his left eye. When he was about to be killed, a mysterious group helped him and transplant an artificial eye. The eye was a super technological device that connected to the whole computer network in the world, and enabled him to control any computers.Not bad, and I liked many enemy designs and abilities. If Cobra is an epitome of average in the genre, this feels like a better version of it, thus above average.Overall Rating: 6/108.Kimagure Orange☆Road OVAきまぐれオレンジ☆ロード [1989-I]Pierrot(Finished 8/8)Tags:School Comedy, Drama, RomanceShiroi Koibito-tachiKyousuke Kasuga and his friends are staying at his grandparent's house over winter break on a skiing trip. Everyone is excited until they hear about a curse that spells doom for couples who go down the mountain together. With a net of relationships and crushes on the line, the group's plans are suddenly upended.Hawaiian SuspenseKyousuke and Madoka Ayukawa's trip to Hawaii takes an abrupt turn for the worse when Hikaru Hiyama gets kidnapped! Kyousuke has to find a way to rescue her without revealing his paranormal powers to Madoka.Wagahai wa Neko de Attari Osakana de AttariWhile studying for exams, Kyousuke wishes that he could switch places with his pet cat or fish so he could have an easier life. But when his grandfather arrives with a magic rope that can be used to swap bodies, Kyousuke finds out he might have gotten himself in too deep.Hurricane! Henshin Shoujo AkaneWhen Kyousuke's cousin, Akane, comes to visit, she stirs up antics with her ability to cast illusions. Things get even crazier when Akane falls for Madoka and becomes Kyousuke's rival in love.Koi no Stage=Heart on Fire!As Kyousuke helps to prepare for a local music festival, a popular idol crashes into him and they switch bodies! Now, Kyousuke must get his body back and prevent his secret from getting out before the show begins.Omoi Gakenai SituationKyousuke has a foreboding dream where Akane attempts to seduce him. Disgusted after having inappropriate thoughts about his cousin, Kyousuke is shocked when she actually asks him to pose as her boyfriend in front of her friends.Rouge no DengonMadoka's father is in Japan for a performance, and she is excited for the rare opportunity to see him. When she sees her father with a strange woman, however, her emotions are thrown into disarray.Wow, probably first official fan-service spin-off. It has such high level of magic and nonsense that absolutely can't be taken seriously.Overall Rating: 5/109.Crusher Joe OVAクラッシャージョウ [1989-I] Sunrise(Finished 2/2)Tags:SpaceAction, Adventure, Sci-FiThe galaxy is a strange and dangerous place, and there are times when even the United Space Force can`t help. That`s where the Crushers come in - skilled troubleshooters who will deal with any problem, large or small, for a fee (large only!) And there is no better Crusher than Crusher Joe!Again an above average show, but lacks humor, so loses to Dirty Pair with similar plots and better humor in this regard. Also can't say I enjoyed it.Overall Rating: 6/1010.Rhea Gall Forceレア・ガルフォース [1989-I]AIC(Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryAction, Sci-FiThe Solnoid race is long dead, annihilated along with their enemies in the final battle at Sigma Narse. But their descendants survive on Earth, and have now inherited the sad destiny predicted so many years before.The year is 2085.The third world war between East and West has reduced the cities of Earth to mountains of rubble. The mechanical killing machines created by both sides now ruthlessly hunt down the remnants of humanity. Old hatreds between human factions prevent an effective resistance, and the only hope for survival rests in a desperate plan: evacuate the survivors to Mars Base. There they can rebuild and plan the liberation of the home world.Among them, one young woman carries the guilt of her father`s hand in the destruction of civilization. Unknown to her, she also carries the key to a possible salvation. As destiny draws new friends and allies to her, a new Gall Force is born to rise up against the coming destruction...A lively action due to a great ground battle happening during the whole episode, but next ones are supposed to be in space again.Overall Rating: 6/1011.Kasei YakyokuNightsong of Splendor華星夜曲 [1989-I]Magic Bus (Finished 4/4)Tags:HistoricalDrama, RomanceThe story takes place in old Tokyo, the Tokyo of August-September 1923 (Showa 12). At this moment in time, the city is a mixture of extremes... past and present, rich and poor, good and bad. This is a city where we see both horsecarts and motorcars, swords and pistols, lords and businessmen.A wealthy woman from an upper-class family finds herself attracted to a handsome young man, Taka. He and his younger brother seem to be allied, perhaps not entirely willingly, with some of the city's criminal underground (Yakuza). The lady's lovely young maidservant, Sara, meets him too, and a conflict ensues which can only lead to tragedy, passion, and dishonor. But, as events move on, and the days pass, the viewer sees a terrible date coming closer... that unforgettable day of September 1, 1923, at 11:58, when the Great Kanto Earthquake and tidal wave struck Tokyo, causing the death of almost 100,000 people, one of the greatest disasters in human history.The first josei ? Anyway, it's a pretty boring story about rich noble ladies in trouble and a defender gangster all in white fighting typical gangsters ... Of course every episode represents vivid example of cliche on notorious woman logic which means absolutely stupid actions because she loves a gangster - like attempt to kill the same gangster or immediately getting married to another man. Await all kinds of romance stamps. There's just nothing for me to like here.Overall Rating: 5/1012.Kyomu Senshi Miroku虚無戦史ＭＩＲＯＫＵ [1989-I]J.C.Staff (Finished 6/6)Tags:Historical, Mythology, SamuraiAction, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, SupernaturalA psychic ninja fantasy suggesting that the assassins did not die out during the Sengoku era but burrowed under Japan, where they fought a new war against the alien occupants of a crashed spaceship that has lain undisturbed for several millennia.Just a normal youkai action with more gore than usual. Nothing stands out here.Overall Rating: 5/1013.Yankee Reppuu-taiヤンキー烈風隊 [1989-I]Toei Animation (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenDelinquentsAdventure, DramaImpossibly tough and hairsprayed biker boys and girls fight turf wars in the streets, with much revving of motors and "you killed my buddy, prepare to die" dialogue. Based on the Shonen Magazine manga by Masahide Hashimoto, whose hero was so tough that he transferred schools 20 times. Only a Japanese tough guy would continue to go at all!Not translated. Biker wars on their own aren't particularly interesting without a heavy focus on humor and characters.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Bakusou Circuit Roman Twin爆走サーキット·ロマン TWIN [1989-I]Japan Home Video (Finished 1/1)Tags:RacingThis OVA centers on a boy named Hyou, who is constantly trying to kill himself for the first half of the show, and Hibiki, a rich, lonely girl who initially wants to commit suicide just because she saw a guy she likes kiss another girl. She ends up running into Hyou, falls in love at first sight, and makes it her mission to basically stalk him and prevent him from killing himself.Not translated. Mentally unstable people do stupid things. The End.Overall Rating: 3/1015.Venus SenkiVenus Warsヴィナス戦記 [1989-I]Triangle Staff (Finished 1/1)Tags:SpaceAction, Adventure, Sci-FiIn the 21st century, mankind lives on two worlds. Following the collision of an ice asteroid, massive terraforming has made Venus a planet now capable of supporting life. Colonists from Earth tamed the hostile world and have thrived for four generations. But they also brought the darker side of humanity. Venus is about to get hostile again.Hiro Seno, a hotshot motorcycle jockey, witnesses the first strike against his country Aphrodia, by the rival nation of Ishtar. Huge battletanks and warplanes quickly lay waste to the city. The Aphrodian army is quick to mobilize and retaliate... and despite his opposition to warfare, Hiro finds himself fighting for his life on the front lines.I don't like racing, real life footage and opening endings. This anime has it all, and I still enjoyed it a lot to the point that I absolutely want to highlight it. It was not clear where it was going at all, so I was anxious what's going on.Great setting and views, great battles great visuals, very nice characters. Just great.Overall Rating: 7/1016.Five Star Storiesファイブスター物語 [1989-I]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAction, Drama, Fantasy, Sci-FiAmaterasu is the god of light, the future emperor of the Joker Star System. Under the guise of young mecha conceptor Ladios Sopp, he is compelled by an old friend, Dr Ballanche, to save his two latest Fatimas Lachesis and Clotho. And so began the stories of the Joker System, as well as Amaterasu's love for Lachesis.For mecha standards it's better than average one, but I kept forgetting that it's mecha at all as it's basically not needed here. Protagonist dresses as a girl, so subtle boys love hints are inevitable. Synopsis is overly complicated for the story that develops rather straightforwardly. This mix of elements was not particularly interesting to me, so could not enjoy it, but it had nice action moments with laser swords, thus...Overall Rating: 6/1017.Utsunomiko宇宙皇子 [1989-I]Nippon Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:MythologyAdventure, FantasyIn the chaos of the Jinshin-no-Ran civil war of 762, a child with a small horn in his forehead was born. The child's mother condemned him as an oni and cast him away. An elderly shūgenja woman claimed the child and named him Utsunomiko, or 'Divine Child of the Heavens', telling Miko that his horn smybolizes the union of heaven and earth. Miko matured in the wilderness learning the ways of Shugendō, and soon started venturing into villages out of curiosity. He found that the common people of the villages live in poverty and suffering, and began using his spiritual powers to help them. But his anger at the self-serving rulers and their petty power-struggles grew until he came into open conflict with the Imperial Court, setting Miko down a long path as a champion of the oppressed.Not translated, because who seriously cares about some ancient yokai mythology adventures. Becomes very chaotic as more flying fire breathing magicians show up.Overall Rating: 5/1018.Dragon Ball ZドラゴンボールZ [1989-II]Toei Animation (Dropped 4/291)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, Super PowerAction, Adventure, Comedy, FantasyFive years after winning the World Martial Arts tournament, Gokuu is now living a peaceful life with his wife and son. This changes, however, with the arrival of a mysterious enemy named Raditz who presents himself as Gokuu's long-lost brother. He reveals that Gokuu is a warrior from the once powerful but now virtually extinct Saiyan race, whose homeworld was completely annihilated. When he was sent to Earth as a baby, Gokuu's sole purpose was to conquer and destroy the planet; but after suffering amnesia from a head injury, his violent and savage nature changed, and instead was raised as a kind and well-mannered boy, now fighting to protect others.With his failed attempt at forcibly recruiting Gokuu as an ally, Raditz warns Gokuu's friends of a new threat that's rapidly approaching Earth—one that could plunge Earth into an intergalactic conflict and cause the heavens themselves to shake. A war will be fought over the seven mystical dragon balls, and only the strongest will survive in Dragon Ball Z.Sequel loses in humor a bit, but seems to be more integral with the plot and base for fighting arcs. No desire to watch it further, as cliffhangers after each episode make the most of motivation to continue.Overall Rating: 6/1019.Ranma ½らんま1/2 [1989-II]Studio Deen (Dropped 3/161)Tags:ShounenMagical Sex Shift, Martial ArtsComedy, Fantasy, Slice of LifeRanma Saotome is a top-class martial artist and prodigy at the Saotome "Anything-Goes" school of martial arts. While training in China, he and his father meet a terrible fate when they accidentally fall into a cursed spring. Now, Ranma is cursed to turn into a girl when splashed with cold water, and only hot water can turn him back into a boy.Things are only complicated further when Ranma discovers that his father has arranged for him to marry one of Soun Tendo's three daughters in order to secure the future of the Tendo dojo. Though Soun learns of Ranma's predicament, he is still determined to go ahead with the engagement, and chooses his youngest daughter Akane, who happens to be a skilled martial artist herself and is notorious for hating men.Ranma ½ follows the hilarious adventures of Ranma and Akane as they encounter various opponents, meet new love interests, and find different ways to make each other angry, all while their engagement hangs over their head.Actually, I watched at least a dozen of episodes in the past, but it gets repetitive with episodic format. Nice comedy show, but never considered it a masterpiece, only a temporary amusement.Overall Rating: 6/1020.Tenkuu Senki Shurato天空戦記シュラト [1989-II]Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 3/38)Tags:ShounenAction, FantasyA 16-year-old boy named Shurato and his friend Gai happen to be drawn into a gigantic ball of light while competing in the final match of a martial arts tournament. When they regain their senses, they find themselves transferred to a mystic heavenly sphere with a divine atmosphere. It's soon discovered that Shurato used to be the governing king of this world and that he has only been brought to his original state. Shurato is shocked as Gai suddenly turns hostile. After this unfortunate incident, a spectacular yet fantastic drama develops involving the two.Looks a lot like Saint Seiya with gods fighting with melee weapons. Super boring, but at least there is a female companion for at least some comedy relief.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Idol Densetsu ErikoLegendary Idol Erikoアイドル伝説えり子 [1989-II]Production Reed (Dropped 3/51)Tags:Idols (Female), MusicEriko Tamura is Kousuke Tamura, the chairman of Tamura Productions (reknown music company) and Minako Tamura's (former famous idol singer) only daughter. Having talent for singing since birth, she has always loved her parent's media world. Then one day tragedy strikes when her parents get into a horrible car accident, which kills her father and leaves her mother in coma. She is left in her father's best friend, Mr. Uchida's care. Now Eriko must take the path of singing, a path her parents did not want her to pursue. Then her uncle is out to destroy her career. But in spite of all the hardship, she becomes an idol and wins hearts all over Japan.I try to finish musical anime, but not with this many episodes... there have been at least two idol anime before, but they had only competition and attempt to work/study alongside. Here the study is cast off as a hindrance, and the focus is on exploiting idol by different people. It's curious enough for that reason, but not a masterpiece material .Overall Rating: 6/1022.Tatakae! Chou Robot Seimeitai Transformers VictoryTransformers Victory戦え! 超ロボット生命体トランスフォーマーV[ビクトリー] [1989-II](Dropped 3/38)Tags:ShounenMechaAdventure, Sci-FiSet in 2025 A.D., Transformers Victory introduces Star Saber, the mightiest Autobot warrior and the greatest swordsman in the galaxy. Following the defeat of the Decepticons on Earth in the Masterforce War, the villains have begun aggressively attacking other planets in the universe. To counter this threat, the Autobots joined with many other civilizations and lifeforms (including Humanity) to form the Galactic Peace Alliance, with Star Saber as its leader.Seeking the energy necessary to free his massive Planet-Destroying Fortress from imprisonment in the Dark Nebula where Star Saber sealed it years ago, the Decepticons' new Emperor of Destruction, Deathsaurus (Dezarus), attacks Earth with his Dinoforce, prompting Star Saber and his team to set up residence on the planet.Guess what - transformers have not become better by now.Overall Rating: 2/1023.Madou King GranzortMado King Granzort魔動王グランゾート [1989-II]Sunrise (Dropped 3/41)Tags:ShounenMechaAction, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiIn the future, the moon is a habitable place with atmosphere and gravity and also a famous tourist attraction. There are also stories about a "long ears" creature like rabbits on the moon who can use magic. Haruka Daichi heads off to the moon during a summer holiday alone because he likes to see the long ears creature by himself.However, he get himself dragged into an ancient conflict between two ancient moon races: the "long ears" race and Jado race. Jado race wanted to conquer the universe and resurrect ancient evil powers to seize control of the Earth. Now the "long ears" race and Daichi must seek three warriors who could use magic to release Mado King to fight Jado race and to release "long ears" race's kingdom, Rabiluna, from Jado race.Another crazy mecha which looks absolutely needless as magic is used for fighting. Anyway, thanks to Sunrise big experience, humor is nice, and SD characters are cute. Personally, as soon as evil empreror appeared before three generals and gave orders, anime was already dead for me.Overall Rating: 6/1024.Juushin LigerBio Armor Ryger獣神ライガー [1989-II]Sunrise (Dropped 3/43)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiIt is 199X A.D. In Kushiro, Hokkaido, three bodies of Dragonite appear. Possessing overwhelming destructive force, they attack the city. They also awaken the evil Jashin Drago from the holy seal he was trapped in. 200 years ago, Drago was trapped in the seal by a holy warrior with the tattooed mark of the Liger. Assuming that the warrior is dead, Drago and Empress Zara are free to conquer the Earth using their army of biomechanical beasts. Even the Japan Self-Defense Forces are no match for the Dragonites' awesome power. One of the people fleeing is the protagonist, a milquetoast 16 year old boy named Ken Taiga. Unbeknownst to the Dragonites, Ken realizes that he is the descendant of the Liger warrior! In a burst of anger, Ken's Liger birthmark appears, and he rises his palm into the air, shouting the henshin command, "LIGER!!!", which then covers him in demonic long-haired biomechanical armor. Ken transforms into Jushin Liger to fight the evil forces of the Dragonite!Mecha with monster of the week... nuff said.Overall Rating: 5/1025.Aoi BlinkBlue Blink青いブリンク [1989-II]Tezuka Productions (Dropped 3/39)Tags:Adventure, FantasyStory of a young boy named Kakeru and his adventures together with a magical blue pony named Blink.Wow, first TV series of Tezuka Productions, also it's the year when Osamu Tezuka dies, so company becomes a more or less normal anime company after it. So, first of a ll Aoi Blink is a child anime in the genre of fantasy travel, this this regard it's just like Kino no Tabi, just with a pony instead of a bike. Visited towns are truly unique and fun. This anime definitely deserves a masterpiece, but I can't lie to myself - I don't like children anime and travel genre. Absolutely great anime to show to children, though.Overall Rating: 6/1026.Miracle Giants Doumu-kunミラクル・ジャイアンツ童夢くん [1989-II]Gallop(Finished 0/49)Tags:SportsDome Shinjo, a 10-year-old boy who is son of a deceased legendary player of the Yomiuri Giants. From his father he inherited the love for baseball and his great abilities for such sport, although his mother and his older sister try to avoid that he practices it. In fact, his father, before dying, had time to teach him a magical shoot. Dome, after his mother gave him the glove his father used, he makes that shot in a training session of the Giants and is contracted immediately. With the support of the veteran players of the team, this young player will, from this very moment, make the Giants become unbeatable at home and none of the main batters of the Japanese professional league manages to end with his magical shot. Although that does not apply to the games played away, as Dome is just allowed to play at home, in the Tokyo Dome in which his father was consacrated (and the place by which he did chose such name for his son). When the veteran captain of the Dragons manages to bat his shot, it seems that the young boy is finally and definitely defeated, but then he invents another magical shot. New rivals, but also friends (such as Melody Norman, an American girl who disguises herself as a boy because women can't play baseball), will appear in scene, until the arrival of the mysterious Don Carlos, a Spanish ex-bullfighter who plays for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp and seems to have something pending with his father. Will Dome succeed in giving the league to the Giants?Not translated. Not going to watch non-translated anime of the genres I don't like.Overall Rating: 0/1027.Akuma-kun悪魔くん [1989-II]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/42)Tags:Adventure, Fantasy, Horror, SupernaturalThe age of the demons has begun. Dr Faust has foreseen this rise of evil. Unfortunately, he is near death and is unable to personally battle this upcoming threat. Faust entrusts a young boy, Shingo Yamada, to take the responsibility of ridding the Earth of this new evil presence. Faust finds a birthmark on Shingo's forehead that signifies that he is the chosen demon fighter. Faust summons from hell what may be humanity's only hope of surviving: a less than enthusiastic devil named Mephisto rises. After signing a pact in blood to save humankind, Shingo and Mephisto set out to battle the supernatural world.Not translated. I don't like youkai and I'm fed up with Gegege no Kitaro to such an extent that I don't want to watch its movies. Akuma-kun feels a lot like Kitaro, so I can't enjoy it. Movies of Akura-kun seem to have translation, so will try to like it then.Overall Rating: 5/1028.Shin Bikkuriman新ビックリマン [1989-II]Toei Animation (Finished 3/72)Tags:Comedy, FantasyShin Bikkuriman depicts the journey of Pia Marco and his group who travel together until they finally build a truly peaceful world "Shinkawa system".Not translated. Show fully depends on gags, so it's kind of useless to discuss it without translation. As for me, characters are way too childish to enjoy.Overall Rating: 5/1029.YoumaBlood Reign: Curse of the Yoma 妖魔 [1989-II]J.C.Staff (Finished 2/2)Tags:MythologyAction, Fantasy, Horror, SupernaturalA terrible war has ravaged the land, and now, fueled by the blood of numerous fallen warriors the Yoma, demons from hell, emerge once more. A skilled ninja seeks to end the bloodshed these demons inflict upon humanity, but to do this he must fight against his undead former best friend and fellow ninja who was killed in battle and has been resurrected to serve the Yoma.Your usual ninja vs youkai, hard to make something serious with 37 minutes length.Overall Rating: 5/1030.Riki-Oh: Toukatsu Jigoku力王等括地獄 [1989-II]Magic Bus (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenMartial Arts, Super PowerActionA Retelling of the prison arc of the manga RIKI-OH!The story follows Saiga Riki-Oh, a young man blessed with inhuman strength. After taking revenge against a yakuza boss who was responsible for the death of his girlfriend, he ends up in a maximum security prison owned by a private organization.The prison is divided into four blocks, each run by a member of prisoners known as the Gang of Four. The first member is a tattooed knife wielder known as Hai that runs his block in a mafia style family system. The second member is a giant man (known as Tarzan in the live action) with incredible strength. The third member is a effeminate fighter named Huang Chaun that is growing Opium in the prison. The final member is a small man that use sewing needles as his weapons.A super strong prison convict is constantly assaulted , often with dirty methods, but in the end he manages to overcome all difficulties. Nothing of interest to me.Overall Rating: 5/1031.Cleopatra D.C.クレオパトラＤ．Ｃ [1989-II]J.C.Staff (Finished 3/3)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiThe Cleopatra Corns Group, aka Cleopatra DC, is a powerful financial conglomerate controlling most of the United States economy, almost as powerful as the US government itself. At the top of the organization is the beautiful, smart and brave Ms. Cleo, the Group's young, talented Chairman. This is good--it means she can handle the repair bill when that airplane crashes into her bedroom. With stolen artifacts, corporate kidnappings, and top-secret cyborg projects gone awry, her luck only gets worse from there.Three rather disjointed stories with not enough charm added to make it viable.Overall Rating: 4/1032.Fuuma no Kojirou: Yasha-hen風魔の小次郎夜叉篇 [1989-II]animate Film (Finished 6/6)Tags:ShounenMartial ArtsAction, FantasyHakuo Academy was once a respected school where many students dreamed of being admitted. Now, its rival academy Seishikan is on a mission to assimilate all other schools, and Hakuo Academy is its next target. Supported by the fearsome Yasha clan, Seishikan students frequently visit Hakuo's campus to assault and forcibly convince their best students and athletes to transfer to Seishikan.Desperate to preserve their legacy, Hakuo Academy enlists the help of Kojirou Fuuma—the only member of the once-legendary Fuuma clan still living in their ancestral village. Kojirou will stop at nothing to defend Hakuo against the Yasha clan, whom the family has feuded with for generations. But will that be enough to stop Seishikan's aggression?Just battle royale between schools, nothing complex or particularly interesting.Overall Rating: 4/1033.Explorer Woman RayEXPLORER WOMAN RAY (エクスプローラーウーマン・レイ) [1989-II]AIC(Finished 2/2)Tags:Action, AdventureShe's an archeologist AND a black belt and Ray Kazuki will need her brains and her brawn as she plunges into a thrill-filled adventure. Ray's examining an exciting new archeological discovery: a legendary temple located in an isolated area of the world.As always, she has with her a strange mirror that belonged to her father; a mirror that may provide access to a vanished civilization. On the excavation, Ray meets Mai and Mami Tachibana, freewheeling pubescent girls who heedlessly court danger. And danger they find, in the form of Rig Veda.Veda's after a big prize: Ray's mirror. But she will have to stop him at all costs, because if Veda gets his hands on the powerful object, he will possess secrets that could lead to disaster.Basically, treasure hunter adventures like Lara Croft or Indiana Jones... super boring for me.Overall Rating: 4/1034.Hoshi Neko FullhouseStar Cat Fullhouse星猫フルハウス [1989-II]Artland (Finished 4/4)Tags:Comedy, Romance, Sci-FiThis slapstick comedy is about three pretty girls struggling to earn a living as pilots of the Iron Goblin delivery vessel. The computer answers back, the space pirates are on their tail, and romantic entanglements with their clients cause friction in the trio. The final episode throws the alien Eterna race in to the mix.Pervy robot, good humor, intrigue of humankind captured by robots from the start, no clear structure from the start - I definitely enjoyed these OVA more than expected ! One little hilarious space harem comedy with right enough length of two hours to not get intrusive.Overall Rating: 7/1035.Toki-iro Kaima朱鷺色怪魔 [1989-II]Mushi Production (Finished 4/4)Tags:ShounenHorrorEach episode of the "Toki-iro Kaima" OVA was bundled with a corresponding manga volume and CD single. The idea was that you first read the manga, then watch the OVA, and then conclude your "experience" by listening to the CD. This set of 3 mediums of entertainment was branded as an "Original Comic Video," and "Toki-iro Kaima" appears to be the only "Original Comic Video" that was ever made.Not translated. As OVAs correspond to just one third of experience, it's hard to recommend. Main theme is fight with youkai. Overall, lots of cringe.Overall Rating: 4/1036.Shougeki Shinsengumi笑劇新選組 [1989-II](Dropped 0/1)Tags:HistoricalComedyA slapstick OVA featuring super deformed members of the Shinsengumi membersNot found.Overall Rating: 0/1037.City Hunter: Ai to Shukumei no MagnumCity Hunter: .357 Magnumシティーハンター愛と宿命のマグナム [1989-II]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, MysteryA beautiful pianist comes to Tokyo for a charity concert, and City Hunter is there. But music isn`t his forte; he wants lessons in the language of love. Desperation becomes the word of the day as the bodies start dropping. A foreign dignitary is assassinated in cold blood. Secret agents scour the streets for a missing microchip. Diplomatic infighting swirls around the upcoming concert, and City Hunter is the only hope!Traits of characters are showed in exaggerated manner, so it was more interesting to watch than the series. Overall still just above average.Overall Rating: 6/1038.Sengoku Kitan Youtouden MovieWrath of the Ninja 戦国奇譚妖刀伝劇場版 [1989-II](Finished 1/1)Tags:Martial Arts, SamuraiActionThe year a comet races across the sky, splitting the heavens, from the depths of the Earth the dark god shall arise once again. Then, the dark evil lurking in the shadows shall come out of the depths of Hell and show itself in the present world. The emotions of the blade of the wind shall collect at the source of the blue light. And the three blades shall become one, vanquishing evil.The year is 1580, and the unholy armies of Lord Nobunaga Oda steadily spread across Japan. Narrowly escaping the slaughter of her clan, a young ninja steals into the shadows. She is Ayame, the last of the Kasumi clan, and the dagger she wields is one of three, mystical blades. She is joined by Sakon and Ryoma, renegade ninja and the possessors of the sacred sword and spear. Now, these shadow warriors must unite their weapons and skills to fulfill `The Prophesy of the Enchanted Swords` or die trying..My main problem is that I already saw the three OVAs. Even then I considered that it would look better as a movie. There are probably some improvements now, but I can't evaluate the plot I had already seen, differently.Overall Rating: 5/1039.Hengen Taima Yakou Karura Mau! Nara Onryou EmakiKarura Mau Movie変幻退魔夜行カルラ舞う！奈良怨霊絵巻 [1989-II]Toshiba Entertainment (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoMythologyAction, Adventure, Fantasy, Horror, SupernaturalShoko and Maiko Ougi are apparently two ordinary schoolgirls in pursuit of graduating and having fun. Shii-chan is the more serious while Mai-chan is more fun-loving. In reality, the two sisters are powerful exorcists from the Karura temple. Each wields half the power...Shii-chan can "see" the spirits, and Mai-chan can banish them. This is the movie adaptation of a spooky series with heavy emphasis on traditionally Japanese occult themes.So let's see - I don't like youkai, exorcism, occultism and horror. Would I like this movie? To my surprise it also got some sunny scenes with merry music and even humor. And then usual gorefest begins.Overall Rating: 5/1040.Ultraman USAウルトラマンUSA [1989-II]Tsuburaya Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiThe lives of three stunt pilots (Scott, Chuck, and Beth) are changed when they gain the ability to transform into three new Ultra-beings, and form the Ultra Force, to battle four giant Sorkin Monsters.As far as I can see the problem with this show is in... everything? .Overall Rating: 3/1041.Lupin III: Bye Bye Liberty - Kiki Ippatsu!Lupin III: Goodbye Lady Libertyルパン三世『バイバイ・リバティー危機一発！ [1989-II]Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAdult CastAction, Adventure, Comedy, MysteryIn this adventure, Lupin III tries to erase the files about him in the world police network. He finds out about the Ultravirus, a computer virus that controls all others and its location is only known by a little kid. Meanwhile, he steals the Statue of Liberty to look for a diamond the size of a football that is said to be hidden somewhere in it. Apparently, the diamond and the ultravirus are somehow related...A bit unusual due to initial retirement, but moderately interesting part.Overall Rating: 5/1042.Konchuu Monogatari Minashigo Hutch (1989)昆虫物語みなしごハッチ [1989-III] Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 3/55)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, DramaA remake of the 1970's version.Remake it all you want - it's not getting better story-wise.Overall Rating: 5/1043.Angel Copエンジェルコップ [1989-III]D.A.S.T. (Finished 6/6)Tags:DetectiveAction, Sci-FiSometime in the future, terrorism in Japan has become commonplace, and the police have become almost as brutal as criminals. A member of the Special Security Force known as Angel, is the best of the best, stopping at nothing in her fight for justice.Things get interesting for Angel and her partner, Raiden, when they begin investigating a series of murders in which the victims were known criminals, killed in very unpleasant ways. This trio of killers known as Hunters, is a group of psychics that have banded together to hunt down the lowest scum in the city and bring them to justice.After a couple of encounters between the cops and the psychics, two of the psychics begin to think that maybe they're not the good guys after all; but the third prefers killing to morality. Augmented by cybernetics from a mysterious source, this third hunter heads out on a killing spree, with the Special Security Force as the first target.Even with help from the other two psychics and her newly cyborged partner (after an unfortunate accident), Angel is going to have her work cut out trying to find the rogue psychic and the organization behind the Hunters.It's terribly horrible, or maybe horribly terrible. Boring beyond redemption.Overall Rating: 3/1044.Baoh RaihoushaBaoh the Visitorバオー来訪者 [1989-III]Pierrot (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenGore, Martial Arts, Super PowerAction, Sci-FiAn innocent young man, Ikuroo, has a parasite known as Baoh implanted in his brain by an evil organization, Doress. The parasite makes him nearly immortal and gives him the ability to transform into a really powerful beastie when he's in trouble.Doress intends to use him in some sort of ploy for financial success, world domination, or something along those lines, but when they're transporting him on a train, a young psychic girl, Sumire (who's being held by the organization due to her abilities), sets him free and the two escape together.Of course, Dr. Kasuminome is the mad scientist behind the whole Baoh thing, and he isn't about to let his test subject get away and he has considerable resources (including some superpowered lackeys, as well as a small army) at his disposal.Generic story and execution. I like graphical style, and maybe someone can like gore, but that's it.Overall Rating: 4/1045.Kyoushoku Soukou Guyver (1989)The Guyver: Bio-Booster Armor強殖装甲ガイバー [1989-III]Visual 80 (Finished 6/6)Tags:Super PowerAction, Horror, Sci-FiShou and his friend, Tetsurou, stumble upon a strange orb-like mechanism, the Guyver Unit, in the woods. It physically bonds with Shou and turns him into the alien soldier, Guyver. His mission is to protect the Guyver Unit from the Japanese corporation known as Chronos. They are after it and two other units just like it. To retrieve the object, they send out vicious monsters known as Zoanoids. So no one is safe in Shou's life; not even himself.Very few mecha can receive 6 from me. This is half biomecha, half superhero, but I treat it the same. I can't deny that directorship and graphics are good. It lacks complexity and interesting characters to masterpiece level, but it's a high quality action series.Overall Rating: 6/1046.Shin Captain Tsubasa新・キャプテン翼 [1989-III]Nippon Animation (Dropped 3/13)Tags:ShounenAction, SportsShin Captain Tsubasa takes place at the International Jr. Youth tournament (U-16) in Paris, France. After defeating the Argentina Jr. Youth, Italy Jr. Youth and France Jr. Youth teams, Japan Jr. Youth reaches the final against the powerful West Germany Jr. Youth team. The giant goal keeper Müller, the ace Kaltz and Europe's best player Schneider offer the Japan Jr. Youth team an extremely hard final match.I did not notice anything new apart from that it's almost pure sports now with initial humor seeming to be gone, plus team kinda starts anew as it has not won European cups or even Japanese cup yet.Overall Rating: 5/1047.Gosenzo-sama Banbanzai!Long Life To The Ancestors御先祖様万々歳! [1989-III]Pierrot (Finished 6/6)Tags:PsychologicalAvant Garde, Comedy, Drama, Sci-FiThe Yomota family is small and typical: father Kinekuni (42), mother Tamiko (38), and son Inumaru (17). One day, a beautiful girl appears at their front door, calling herself "Maroko Yomota," granddaughter of Inumaru who travels back in time with a time machine to visit her ancestors. Even with Tamiko's strong objection, Kinekuni and Inumaru welcome her to stay with them, and the structure of a happy family has begun to collapse.Absurdist gag comedy that probably inspired such titles as Zetsubou sensei. As with most absurdist gag sketches, majority is bad, but some are nice, single ones are great. There may be many opinions on it, so in the matter the score depends on whether I could enjoy it or not. And I could not. A lot of attention is required, a lot of irritation builds up, but without a proper reward for the viewer.Overall Rating: 6/1048.Legend of Lemnear: Kyokuguro no Tsubasa ValkisasLegend of Lemnear Legend of Lemnear 極黒の翼バルキサス [1989-III]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, FantasyThe young and beautiful Lemnear's home village is destroyed and her brother is taken away. Lemnear swears to kill the evil wizard Gardin who is responsible for the disaster. With her allies Lemnear goes on a journey to take her revenge. She doesn't know, though, that there is someone above Gardin...A beautiful small fanservice fantasy anime. Ecchi tag is must have here. Nothing much, but enjoyable enough.Overall Rating: 6/1049.Akai Kiba: Blue Sonnet紅い牙ブルー・ソネット [1989-III]Tatsunoko Production (Finished 5/5)Tags:ShoujoSuper PowerAction, Drama, Sci-FiSonnet is a cyborg/esper from a harsh background and now trained to be the ultimate warrior and most powerful weapon in the world. She is sent to Japan to watch Komatsuzaki Lan, who is thought to be controlled by the rage of the esper Akai Kiba (Crimson Fang). Lan is a quiet girl who knows she's different from everybody else and starts to show signs of Crimson Fang after coming into contact with Sonnet. In the course of fighting with Lan, Sonnet starts to rediscover her humanity. At the same time Lan has to fight to retain her humanity and control the Crimson Fang.Average in everything and not particularly interesting action.Overall Rating: 5/1050.Ariel VisualARIEL (エリアル) VISUAL [1989-III]J.C.Staff (Finished 2/2)Tags:MechaAction, Comedy, Sci-FiTo save the Earth from alien invaders and their giant monsters, Dr. Kishida does what any other red-blooded mad scientist would do: he builds a giant robot—the ultimate feminine fighting robot!Unfortunately, his grand-daughters refuse to pilot it! Apparently, they've got more important things to do than becoming teenage super-heroes. Besides, how are you supposed to study for your college entrance exams while getting beaten-up in battle?Fortunately for Dr. Kishida, things aren't too well for the invaders, either. According to their reports, the Earth was the perfect target: lush, peaceful, and relatively defenseless. Theoretically, the planet should've surrendered long ago. Now, the war is at a standstill, the dreaded Accounting Department is warning about the serious cost overruns, and the head of the home office has arrived from Galactic Headquarters to personally oversee operations. Has Headquarters decided to unleash, The Audit—or do they have something even more evil in mind?The fate of the world rests upon two people: Aya Kishida, one of the doctor's granddaughters, who may have to give up prep school to pilot the mighty (and lovely) ARIEL; and a mysterious alien named Saber Starblast, who may have the power to defeat the invaders once and for all...Another mecha opposes another alien invasion, nothing to see here, really.Overall Rating: 5/1051.Midori no NekoThe Green Cat緑の猫 [1989-III]Tezuka Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:MysteryThe story is a mystery about a green cat and a private detective who investigates where it came from. The cat was thought to be good luck, but eventually brought misfortune to all those who come in contact. The story was taken directly from the 5th subtitle of the 1950s Lion Books manga.It does not look like it has touch of Osamu Tezuka as it's a rather tasteless short movie without intrigue.Overall Rating: 4/1052.Hi-Speed JecyHigh Speed Jessie ハイスピード・ジェシー [1989-III]Pierrot (Dropped 3/12)Tags:Action, Sci-FiJecy is a young man on a quest for revenge; he lost his parents to the hands of the organized crime syndicate called the Bismark House - a group on a hunt to acquire a product called ‘lyzorium' at any cost. With incredible abilities such as increased speed and agility, Jecy travels through space with a girl named Tiana; Fork Green, a priest of the Heartland religion who kills criminals slowly to send them to heaven; and a living ship called Paolon. However, Jecy's revenge won't come easily - a woman named Jera, her bloodthirsty little brother Cross and a number of other adversaries stand in their way!Surprisingly bland action with nonsensical development.Overall Rating: 5/1053.Yajikita Gakuen Douchuukiやじきた学園道中記 [1989-III]J.C.Staff (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoMartial Arts, SchoolAdventureShinokita Reiko and Yajima Junko are second-year high school students who travel from school to school fighting bad guys, ninjas, yakuza and corruption. At this high school they encounter a secret ninja order and a corrupt administrator, as well as a tragic death in the distant past. With the help of Kotetsu, a skilled ninja, they set the school to rights, but not before leaving several broken hearts behind.Undercover kunoichi defend school from real ninja. It does not get much more complex than that, so...Overall Rating: 5/1054.Cinderella Expressシンデレラエクスプレス [1989-III](Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenComedy, Romance, EcchiEveryday salary man Shimano Yuji meets and beds a pretty young girl at his bachelor party. Meeting her again at his wedding, he realizes that he has just began an affair with his sister-in-law.Not translated. Nothing really to remember, bland movie focusing on a loli.Overall Rating: 4/1055.The Borgman: Last BattleSonic Soldier Borgman: Last Battle THE·BORGMAN LAST BATTLE (ザ・ボーグマンラストバトル) [1989-III]Production Reed (Finished 1/1)Tags:MythologyAction, Sci-FiIt has been three years since the end of the series. Ryo works for NASA as an engineer on a large rocket project. Anise, fellow Borgman and lover, has been reduced to flipping burgers in a restaurant. So naturally, when she gets a letter offering her a professional job in a big, Japanese, high-tech project, she jumps at the chance. Ryo, however, is as indecisive as ever and so she leaves for Japan without him.Chuck Sweager, the third Borgman, is a police officer, as is his girlfriend Miki. When she witnesses a fight amongst several cyborgs she tells Chuck, who says flatly that it cannot be possible, since the only living cyborgs are Ryo, Anise, and himself. But she convinces him and they investigate. Anise arrives for her new job, and when they meet for dinner they explain the situation to her. Anise volunteers to sneak around the Heaven's Gate project, which they believe to be the source of these new cyborgs. Ryo, meanwhile, is en route to Japan to go after his girlfriend. Accompanying him is Hussan, one of the two surviving researchers on the Borgman Project, who has been asked to appear before the Tokyo Police to help investigate. Once the entire cast is in Japan, things begin to get complicated.Much more serious than the series, so can give it a boost above which it can never elevate though.Overall Rating: 6/1056.Shin Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru Majinzan真魔神英雄伝ワタル魔神山編 [1989-III]Sunrise (Finished 2/2)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiSet a few months after the original series, Wataru is called into action once again!Dragon Ball Z presents characters as juveniles rather than kids as earlier, so niche of similar anime with kids kinda gets free. And Wataru with SD characters and almost exact copy of Bruma is the most close imitator. But its target audience is children, so despite all the flashy action and gags I just can't find it interesting for me.Overall Rating: 5/1057.Seishun Fuufu Monogatari: Koiko no Mainichi青春夫婦物語　恋子の毎日 [1989-III]Nippon Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenOrganized CrimeComedy, Drama, Romance, EcchiIn a story that flits between serious drama and comedic farce, Shinjuku gangster Sabu and his young wife Koiko try to live a normal life, despite the interferences of gang politics and criminal deals. After she saves his life, Sabu's gang-boss, Tominaga, falls in love with Koiko, and sends Sabu into increasingly more dangerous situations, hoping to cause his arrest, and thus obligate himself to "take care" of Koiko while Sabu is in prison.Not translated. Rather unpleasant OVAs to watch as protagonist yakuza Sabu constantly nitpicking about everything to his wife, wife being cheerful and dressing a bit bright and yakuza boss Tominaga speaking only about Sabu wife all the time. I doubt that anyone would watch this anime, so in the end boss learns to treat Koiko as a person and stops thinking about her as an object, Sabu checks out from clinic because of wounding just in time to save Koiko from another gang. The only existing quality of video is very bad.Overall Rating: 4/1058.Midoriyama Koukou Koushien-hen緑山高校甲子園編 [1989-III]Animaruya (Dropped 0/10)Tags:School, Team SportsComedy, SportsThe story of students of a baseball team from Midoriyama High School, who will participate in the 66th National Championship Tournament of Senior High School Baseball in Japan.Not translated. And do not watch untranslated anime of genres I don't like.Overall Rating: 0/1059.Moeru! Oniisan (OVA)燃える！お兄さん (1989) [1989-III]Pierrot (Finished 2/2)Tags:ComedyKenichi Kokuho continues his life in the big city.Each OVA contains 2 stories, so there are 4 stories overall. I don't consider it fun when people get constantly hit or a mansion gets destroyed to the stones room by room.Overall Rating: 5/1060.Mandalaya no Ryouta: Kukidani Onsen Enshou Soudou Tanまんだら屋の良太丸鬼谷温泉艶笑騒動譚 [1989-III]Takahashi Studio (Finished 2/2)Tags:SeinenComedy, EcchiRyouta is the son of the hot spring inn Mandaraya.He is in love with his female childhood friend and classmate Tsukiko who he likes to tease. But youth demands having an affair with some relaxed lady staying at hot springs inn here and now.Basically, Ryouta with constant boner does all kinds of obscenities like flipping skirts, peeking in hot springs, flirting with clients, and eventually scores first unwillingly with some granny, then after witnessing a lot more kinky situations around has more luck. That's it...Overall Rating: 4/1061.Meikyoku to Dai Sakkyokka Monogatari名曲と大作曲家物語 [1989-III]Walkers Company (Dropped 0/8)Tags:Historical, MusicBrief lives of some composers, including Beethoven, Schubert, Mozart, Chopin, Vivaldi, Johann Strauss, and Tchaikovsky. Bizarrely, the obscure Stephen Foster, composer of "Beautiful Dreamer" and Jeanie with the Light-Brown Hair, gets a whole episode to himself, probably thanks to being top of the hit parade when Commodore Perry's gunboat diplomacy opened Japan in 1853, while Bach and Handel are forced to share.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1062.Ishii Hisaichi no Nanda Kanda Gekijouいしいひさいちのナンダカンダ劇場 [1989-III](Dropped 0/2)Tags: Martial Arts, SpaceComedy, Sci-FiThe Underground People desire to leave their overcrowded cavern and seize control of the surface world, but they never quite succeed. A second episode, Christmas Aid, soon followed, in which the brainless Undergrounders' second futile escape attempt is set to music by the popular group Yukadan. The first volume also included two unrelated stories by Ishii: 101 Ninja and Ken-chan's Space Exploration Adventure.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1063.Majo no TakkyuubinKiki's Delivery Service 魔女の宅急便 [1989-III]Studio Ghibli (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, Drama, FantasyKiki, a 13-year-old witch-in-training, must spend a year living on her own in a distant town in order to become a full-fledged witch. Leaving her family and friends, Kiki undertakes this tradition when she flies out into the open world atop her broomstick with her black cat Jiji.As she settles down in the coastal town of Koriko, Kiki struggles to adapt and ends up wandering the streets with no place to stay—until she encounters Osono, who offers Kiki boarding in exchange for making deliveries for her small bakery. Before long, Kiki decides to open her own courier service by broomstick, beginning her journey to independence. In attempting to find her place among the townsfolk, Kiki brings with her exciting new experiences and comes to understand the true meaning of responsibility.Watching it for the first time. As expected, only good for children and newbies in anime. Makes another borderline masterpiece.Overall Rating: 7/1064.Dragon Ball Z Movie 01: Ora no Gohan wo Kaese!!Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone ドラゴンボールZ オラの悟飯をかえせッ!! [1989-III]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiPiccolo is training at a barren cliff when a handful of mysterious enemies attacks and defeats him. These same enemies then go to Mount Paozu to steal Gohan Son's "Dragon Ball." Upon arrival, not only do they defeat Gokuu Son's spouse and father-in-law—Chi-Chi and Gyumao, respectively—but they also kidnap Gohan in the process.Feeling something isn't right, Gokuu rushes home, only to find Chi-Chi lying on the ground as she explains the situation. He then goes to Kame House and borrows the Dragon Radar in order to locate the Dragon Balls and, with them, the enemies and Gohan.First movie is surprisingly amusing and integral, but I heard that it's the best of the Dragon Ball Z movies.Overall Rating: 6/1065.Kidou Keisatsu Patlabor the MoviePatlabor: The Movie 機動警察パトレイバー the Movie [1989-III]Studio Deen (Finished 1/1)Tags:Detective, Mecha, MilitaryDramaThe Babylon Project is a massive renovation of Tokyo's neighborhoods, including the creation of artificial islands in the Bay. Utilizing "Labors," or robots created for the express purpose of doing work, architects and construction crews are able to more efficiently progress development of the overhaul. When a key figure in the Project's conception is found dead after committing suicide under mysterious circumstances, Captain Kiichi Gotou's Patlabor police unit is tasked with getting to the bottom of the bizarre situation.As several Labors begin to go haywire and a hacked AI program endangers the people of Tokyo, young pilot Noa Izumi and her Patlabor Alphonse work under Gotou's orders to save the city and the entire nation from a massive biblical conspiracy.It's definitely better than spineless OVA series, but in the end it all comes to the feeling whether I could enjoy it or not. Or not.Overall Rating: 6/1066.Little NemoLittle Nemo: Adventures in Slumberlandリトル・ニモ [1989-III]Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, FantasyBased on the classic Nemo comic strips by Winsor McCay. A pioneer of animation, McCay created the first Little Nemo animated movie in 1911.Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata were attached to this project at first, but left due to "creative differences." Ray Bradbury is also thought to have left the project in its earlier stages.Little Nemo - Adventures in Slumberland is the first Japanese anime to receive a national (wide) U.S. theatrical release.The film opens with the young boy Nemo experiencing a nightmare in which he is pursued by a locomotive. Upon awakening the next day, he goes with his pet flying squirrel, Icarus to see a parade welcoming a traveling circus. However, Nemo is unable to see the circus since his parents are too busy to take him. Later that night, Nemo imitates sleepwalking in an attempt to sneak some pie away, which acts against a promise he had made earlier to his mother, who catches him in the act and makes him run back to his room empty-handed. Upon actually falling asleep later that night, Nemo is approached by figures from the circus parade. The circus organist introduces himself as Professor Genius and claims that they had been sent on a mission by King Morpheus, the king of a realm named Slumberland. The mission involves Nemo becoming the playmate of the princess, Camille. Although Nemo initially has reservations about interacting with a girl, he and Icarus decide to set off to fulfill his mission after being persuaded with a gift box of cookies from the princess.Long things short - everyone left so studio just made an ordinary movie for kids and even showed it in USA, which for me equals a black stamp for being an absolutely toothless work. Reminded me the earliest Toei movies like Gulliver's Space Travels, and - believe me - it's not a praise.Overall Rating: 5/1067.Kankara Sanshinかんからさんしん [1989-III]Tokyo Animation Film (Dropped 0/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaA film about the Battle of Okinawa during the last days of World War II.During the World War II island hopping campaign there was a fierce battle on Okinawa that devastated the population and ravaged the land and left a mark on the populace of the Okinawan people forever. After the war Okinawa was under the control of the United Stated Military. Without any goods and extreme scarcity of Natural resources the Okinawans were in a desperate day to day survival for the basic needs of life. The Okinawans however, despite their dire situation used song and dance to lighten their spirit and make the best of the situation. But with the loss of almost everything of value on island due to constant shelling bombing and fighting between the Japanese and American all the regular sanshin (an Okinawan musical instrument and precursor of the Japanese shamisen) had become very scarce and hard to find. The American were supplying the Okinawans with powdered milk among other items to help keep starvation low. And from those cans of food they would find a way to bring music back to the people again.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1068.Tezuka Osamu Monogatari: Boku wa Son Gokuu手塚治虫物語ぼくは孫悟空 [1989-III]Tezuka Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:AdventureA semi autobiography of Tezuka Osamu.Son-Gokuu is a monkey who was born from a stone and is endowed with magical powers. He gets carried away and goes on a rampage until at last Buddha confines him within Mt. Gogyo. Saved by Sanzohoshi, Son-Gokuu accompanies him on a journey to India. But on their way, monsters lie in wait for them.A touching autobiography tale with a new look on Son Gokuu and a new reference for phoenix. I don't see how people familiar with Tezuka Osamu work can stay indifferent.Overall Rating: 7/1069.Kidou Keisatsu Patlabor: On TelevisionPatlabor: The Mobile Police - The TV Series機動警察パトレイバー ON TELEVISION [1989-IV]Sunrise (Dropped 3/47)Tags:Detective, MechaComedy, Sci-FiIn the future, advanced robotics has created heavy robots ("labors") for use in a variety of functions: construction, fire-fighting, military, and more. However, though the robots are only machines, their operators are also only human—and humans sometimes turn to crime. Since a heavy labor unit can be a dangerous weapon, the police of the future are set to fight fire with fire, using advanced patrol labor units, "patlabors." This is the story of the Second Special Vehicles Division, a motley crew of patlabor policemen and women doing their best to fight crime and live a normal life.Series bring Patlabor back from Movie level to initial OVAs level as it benefits from longer serious stories much more than from comedy SOL with short stories.Overall Rating: 5/1070.City Hunter 3シティーハンター3 [1989-IV]Sunrise (Finished 13/13)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, MysteryRyo Saeba is a "sweeper" know as the City Hunter. He and his sidekick Kaori Makimura are hired to solve problems that the police can't (or won't) handle. When he's not keeping the streets of Tokyo clean, Ryo is chasing the ladies, and Kaori chases after him with a giant anti-ecchi hammer.I liked that in this season traits are like in previous Movie, or exaggerated. Also it is probably one of the first anime that has 13 episodes in the season not out of necessity, but out of choice. This way it's much easier to have a central theme and not fall into episodic hell. Still show is episodic in nature and is on self-repeat, nowhere close to a mastepiece.Overall Rating: 6/1071.Yawara! [1989-IV] Madhouse (Dropped 3/124)Tags:Combat Sports, Martial ArtsAction, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of Life, SportsHigh school student Yawara Inokuma lives a completely happy and ordinary life. She aspires to an average lifestyle as a delicate young lady with a handsome boyfriend in the near future.Unfortunately for Yawara, she has an undesirable prodigious talent in Judo, a modern martial art that is neither feminine nor fashionable. Moreover, Yawara is the only granddaughter of the seventh dan Judo master Jigorou Inokuma, who expects her to become a Japanese Judoka superstar of the '90s.Yawara cautiously hides her strength from everyone to maintain a normal reputation but is often pushed to situations when she must exercise her Judo skills. Observing Yawara's immense potential from the shadows, Kousaku Matsuda, a sports reporter from a substandard paper, is willing to do everything he can to bring her into the limelight.Always hated Yawara , both the game and the anime. Absolutely tasteless senseless shoujo SOL with antics instead of comedy.Overall Rating: 4/1072.Jungle Book Shounen MowgliThe Jungle Bookジャングルブック・少年モーグリ [1989-IV]Nippon Animation (Dropped 3/53)Tags:Adventure, DramaAfter his parents died, Mowgli is raised by the Wolf Pack of the Seeonee Forest led by Akela and other wild animals such as Bagheera and Baloo. The young boy goes through several heartwarming, bittersweet, and life-threatening adventures as he seeks after his true purpose in life. And one of many dangers he has to face is the man-eating tiger, Shere Khan...Only has official dub which means it's a spineless toothless maximally boring show for kids. Can't recommend it for adults for sure.Overall Rating: 4/1073.Jungle Taitei (1989)ジャングル大帝 [1989-IV]Tezuka Productions (Dropped 3/52)Tags:Adventure, DramaLeo (a.k.a. Kimba in the U.S.) is a young ambitious lion cub who takes his father's place as emperor of the jungle when is father is killed by poachers. Even though his father's fate was met by the hands of humans, Leo is one of the few animals in the Jungle that doesn't fear or feel hatred toward humans. He is not alone either, he is guided by friends of his father to help create the best animal kingdom there can be.How come it's not marked as for kids, seriously? What on Earth can interest an adult here...Overall Rating: 4/1074.Teki wa Kaizoku: Neko-tachi no KyouenThe Enemy's the Pirates!: The Cats' Banquet敵は海賊～猫たちの饗宴～ [1989-IV]Production I.G, Madhouse (Finished 6/6)Tags:Comedy, Sci-FiApulo (a cat-like space alien with the ability to lock a human's emotions) and Latell work for the Division of Space Piracy (or DSP for short). The two of them are extremely destructive in their solving of DSP cases. They are attempting to stop Youmei the space pirate from exploiting Computer Aided Thinking for his own nefarious plans.Why is it so bad, seriously? Only absurd and no meaning till half 5th and final episode. Not recommended.Overall Rating: 4/1075.Mahoutsukai Sally 2魔法使いサリー２ [1989-IV] Toei Animation (Finished 3/88)Tags:ShoujoComedyDuring Sally's coronation ceremony in the magic world, she hears her human friends back on Earth are in trouble. Despite the warnings from her parents, she escapes to Earth to help her friends. Because she was caught using magic in front of humans, she had to erase her friends' memories. Now Sally will remain on Earth so she can regain Sumire and Yoshiko's friendship while helping other humans in trouble.Original was surprisingly interesting and memorable. This one is totally wrecked and made for kids only. A shame.Overall Rating: 4/1076.Seton DoubutsukiSeton Animal Chroniclesシートン動物記 [1989-IV]Eiken (Dropped 3/45)Tags:Adventure, FantasyDocumentary in which the achievement of Ernest "Black Wolf" Thompson is settled in different Episodes. Every single episode is a documentary in which one sort of Animal is described.I remember reading Seton Thompson books as a kid - of course all of them were about animals. Actually, some of these 45 animal stories were already shown as movies in 60s-70s. I consider it to be show only for kids. It usually has some restrained animal undergoing hardships.Overall Rating: 4/1077.Momotarou Densetsu桃太郎伝説 [1989-IV]Knack Productions (Dropped1/51)Tags:Adventure, ComedyMomotarotravels with companions Kaguya-hime and Kintaro and aims to defeat demon king.Just one episode is translated. It's a parody on pretty much everything folklore and what not. Humor is ok.Overall Rating: 5/1078.Kariage-kunかりあげクン [1989-IV]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/59)Tags:SeinenComedy, Slice of LifeFrom putting his head of department to embarrasment by announcing to everyone that he has haemmorrhoids through the PA system in a public park to making a whole district dissapointed by putting a notice that there will be a fireworks display, and apparently the only "display" is him holding one small fireworks, Kariage-kun tells the amusing everyday life of, well, Kariage-kun.His typical victim is his head of department, although anyone (or anything) can become a prey to his irony or sarcasm. The story began and ended with no special beginning or endings, but it is arranged chronologically (in the sense that it follows seasonal changes).Not translated. Comedy SOL is one genre the Japanese excel at, and this is one of the most prominent examples, sadly, not translated.Overall Rating: 6/1079.YsYs イース [1989-IV] Tokyo Kids (Finished 7/7)Tags:MythologyAction, Adventure, Drama, FantasyMythical beasts lay siege on the people of Esteria, who have raised an army to fight back. The beasts are relentless and seemingly have no end to their numbers, while the population of defenders dwindle in every skirmish. Even in the town of Minea, where the people are safely nestled behind castle walls, the constant attacks have left them hopeless. It is then that a prophecy is made, proclaiming the arrival of a brave young soul that could be the one who will bring their salvation.Ys follows Adol Christin, an adventurer driven by wanderlust towards the island of Esteria, who washes up on shore after a shipwreck. Following the guidance of the fortuneteller Sarah Tovah, he and his allies will travel the island in search of the legendary tomes known as the Books of Ys. It will be a long and perilous journey, but if fate is truly at work then Adol will certainly be the hero who returns peace to Esteria.I absolutely hate game series, because I always play at hardest available difficulty, and Ys at hardest becomes an unforgiving crazy piano with exact timings. Anime is not responsible for that, but it inherits some giant enemies (giant centipede in anime revoked a lot of horrible memories) and simple concept of chosen hero and the need to save princess by gathering 6 Ys books. Story and personalities are too simple to aim at high scores.Overall Rating: 5/1080.Midnight Eye: Gokuu IIGoku II: Midnight EyeMIDNIGHT EYE　ゴクウII [1989-IV]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenSuper PowerAction, Adventure, Mystery, Sci-FiGoku, the lone wolf private detective is back, contracted by Yoshiko, a mysterious, beautiful and very afraid woman, to find and save her brother, Ryu. Will Goku be able to protect Yoshiko from her step father's soldiers long enough to find her brother? Meanwhile Ryu, the unfortunate subject of a military experiment gone bad, leaves a trail of bodies behind him and has no intention of being found or saved by anyone. Will Goku have to kill the man he is supposed to save? Will even his omniscient cybernetic eye and sceptre be enough to help him defeat this indestructible killing machine?Even better impression than first Gukuu, again above average, but still far from masterpiee material.Overall Rating: 6/1081.Project A-Ko 4: FinalProject A-ko: Love & RobotsプロジェクトA子 -FINAL- [1989-IV]Studio Fantasia (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, Super PowerAction, Comedy, Sci-FiIn Iraq, a group of archaeologists discover ancient relics that prophecize the coming of a superior race and the end of all civilization. Meanwhile, back in Graviton City, as A-Ko and B-Ko's rivalry over Kei intensifies, Mr. Daitokuji sets up an arranged marriage between Miss Ayumi and Kei. Furious over the engagement, both A-Ko and B-Ko do whatever it takes to prevent the wedding from going through. Little do they know that another alien fleet is on its way towards Earth.Only first original movie was memorable, and I consider Finale to be return to the roots - enough fanservice, humor, personal relations and especially global city destruction. It makes finale watchable, but not above average.Overall Rating: 5/1082.Seijuuki CyguardCybernetics Guardian聖獣機サイガード [1989-IV]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaSci-Fi, SupernaturalA freak accident unleashes a demonic spirit within researcher John Stalker - transforming him into Saldo, a mythical cyber-beast fueled by hate and evil.A chaotic mix of mutants, mecha and gore. 40 minutes is not enough for anything but action here.Overall Rating: 5/1083.Assemble Insertアッセンブル・インサート [1989-IV]Studio Core (Finished 2/2)Tags:Detective Comedy, Sci-FiA criminal group known as Demon Seed terrorizes Tokyo with its vast armies of mecha. The local police is afraid to confront them, but one person stands in their way: Maron Namikaze, a 13-year-old idol singer with a catchy voice and unbelievable superhuman strength.A hilarious parody on all the anime of 80s, a great decade finale. Enjoyment is what matters, and it delivers indeed.Overall Rating: 7/1084.Aoki Honoo青き炎 [1989-IV]Artland (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenDrama, RomanceRyuuichi Kaizu, intelligent, ambitious, and dedicated, but at the same time cunning and immoral young student receives present from girl Emi Naito, who comes from wealthy family.Realizing that being in relationship with her can help him reach his goals, he decides to make her his, without her even being aware she is just another woman he is using.Story is simple to emphasize as much H as possible.Overall Rating: 4/1085.Shuten DoujiShuten Doji - The Star Hand Kid手天童子 [1989-IV]AIC (Finished 4/4)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryAction, Sci-FiAs a baby Jiro was delivered to his foster parents by a massive oni, who said he would return for Jiro in 15 years. When the time comes Jiro must contend with enemy oni, dark cultists, and their minions while attempting to protect both his parents and girlfriend from their depredations. Ultimately he must embark on a journey through the past, future, and other dimensions to embrace his destiny as Shuten Doji reborn.There is enough originality, but in the end just could not enjoy it with all the ecchi, oni and time shifts.Overall Rating: 6/1086.Gall Force: Chikyuu ShouGall Force: Earth Chapterガルフォース地球章 [1989-IV]AIC (Finished 3/3)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryAction, Sci-FiThe year 2085 and the only winners of the last war were the machines. Years previously the human race discovered the ruins of an ancient ship beneath the moon's surface and used the knowledge gained to create weapons of war. Eventually these weapons turned against mankind, seeing them as a threat and deciding the only way to stop these war loving humans was to destroy them. Heavily influenced by the 1988 Terminator movie, this new series focuses upon Sandy Newman as she leads a band of warriors in an attempt to reclaim the earth from the machines. If they can reach a group of unlaunched nuclear missiles, they can take out the machine`s headquarters located in Australia.Can be called the best part so far, but suffers from poor directorship and ends in an absolutely enragingly nonsensical way.Overall Rating: 6/1087.Makaryuudo Demon Hunter魔狩人 [1989-IV]Studio Fantasia (Finished 1/1)Tags:Gore, MythologySupernaturalYama Rikudo is not your average teenage girl. With her trademark duo horn-like tufted hair, she’s really a kind of demon policewoman, charged with the duty of protecting Japan from demonic monsters that’ve gone AWOL. Even when her demon superiors try and pull her off the job, because demon-human relations are getting too hot for her to handle, she will stay and fight with her giant scythe, because, while disguised as a high school student, she has fallen for fellow student Sho Kurogane. Now she must save Sho, and his friends, from the evil plotting of the school’s eternal youth seeking, soul sucking, Headmistress.Very chaotic and weak youkai OVA.Overall Rating: 4/1088.Dog Soldierドッグソルジャー [1989-IV] animate Film (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenMilitaryActionWhen an American scientist carrying a cure for the AIDS virus is kidnapped by an arms merchant, John Kyosuke is forced back from retirement. He accepts the challenge to regain possession of the anti-serum. He finds out that some of the people he is after are closely related, which gives his conquest a whole new meaning.Too short, hasty, unremarkable.Overall Rating: 4/1089.Umi no Yami, Tsuki no KageDarkness of the Sea, Shadow of the Moon海の闇、月の影 [1989-IV]Visual 80 (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShoujoSuper PowerDrama, Horror, RomanceRuka and Rumi Kobayakawa are twin sisters in love with the same man, athletic upperclassman Katsuyuki Touma. Rumi seems supportive of Ruka's fledgling romance with Katsuyuki, until the twins are infected with a strange bacterium that transforms Rumi's personality and gifts the twins with terrifying psychic powers. Now Rumi will stop at nothing - or no one, that gets between her and Katsuyuki, including her own twin sister...Combine shoujo, esper powers, horror and poor execution, and you'll get the result score.Overall Rating: 4/1090.Dokushin Apartment Dokudami-sou独身アパートどくだみ荘 [1989-IV]Takahashi Studio (Finished 3/3)Tags:SeinenComedy, Slice of Life, EcchiBased on the manga by Takashi Fukutani.It's five perverted, disgusting, ecchi heavy, but not ecchi focused stories. Since focus is on the story and stories are varied and unusual, there's not telling how each ends. In the end I kinda liked it, especially tanuki.Overall Rating: 6/1091.Bouken Shite mo Ii Koro冒険してもいい頃 [1989-IV]Knack Productions (Finished 3/3)
Tags:SeinenComedyFollow a cast that makes pornographic movies. The loves and loyalty it creates and the friction it causes.The focus of the OVAs is H, and that makes it hentai by definition. Comedy is mostly antics. And since it's hentai, I'm not rating those.Overall Rating: 0/1092.Choujin Locke: Lord LeonLocke the Superman: Lord Leon超人ロックロードレオン [1989-IV]Nippon Animation (Finished 3/3)Tags:Super PowerAction, Sci-FiIt is the year 336 of the Space Century on the planet of Sieren, and in the state of Innex, Flora Rain-who is blind-is employed at an elementary school. Flora is adored by her students, the principal of the school, and all the town’s people, and enjoys a peaceful life in the town.By chance, she meets a strange youth named Locke. Locke has numerous superpowers, although he is very discreet about them and gives the impression of being an ordinary youth.One day, Locke is visited by a Military man, Major Caliann, who requests Locke’s assistance in their investigation of Lordleon.Lordleon and his space pirates have attacked the enterprise Astoria Concern, but the chairman, Great Georg, didn’t report the incident to the Union. The Union (aware of the attacks) thought this was very strange, and decided to investigate Lordleon with Locke's help.Locke the Superman was a horrible anime Movie about espers in 1984. This one is only slightly better, which does not make it break from the mediocrity either.Overall Rating: 5/1093.Bucchigiriぶっちぎり [1989-IV]Nippon Animation (Finished 4/4)Tags:Delinquents, Team SportsTo all his schoolmates, Jin comes across as a hot-headed class clown from typically barging in late and sleeping the whole way through to always responding to any situation with reckless stupidity. The fact that he used to be the charismatic leader of a legendary biker gang has turned into an urban legend; however, after starting a rivalry with the captain of the school baseball team, he and two former members, become their star players. But it's not long before his past catches up to him...Not translated. Some yakuza and romance, lots of delinquents and sports... nothing out of the ordinary, just winning some cups.Overall Rating: 4/1094.Ogami Matsugorouおがみ松吾郎 [1989-I]Kodansha (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, SchoolAction, RomanceBased on the same name manga by Itou Minoru, serialized in Kodansha's Weekly Shounen Magazine. Matsugorou Ogami is clumsy man who can only fight and express his kindness with force. But he falls in love with Koume who is a high school girl...Not translated. Very bland. As expected, girl tries to civilize the hooligan, but in the end his strength is required to protect her.Overall Rating: 4/1095.Kangetsu Ittou: Akuryou Kiri寒月一凍悪霊斬り [1989-IV]Magic Bus (Finished 2/2)Tags:Martial Arts, SamuraiActionPopular Edo illustratorIchiro Kanzukirescues a woman who is being attacked by several ronin. The woman is the servant of the Satake clan who is given a mysterious tarot card having a link to the secret of the Satake clan. At the same time, in Edo, the daughters of merchants who are purveyors of the Satake clan are being spirited away one after another, and there is a murder of Jinnai Takeda, a senior vassal of the Satake clan. Kanzuki at the request ofJinnai's daughter Kaori decides to search for the killer and in the process gets involved into feud for the Satake clan leadership.Not translated. Actually, very similar to Shinshuu Sudama-hen - same yoshiwara, same killings - a mix of gore and nakedness. The main change from that is bigger tilt into comedy and better plot. Overall, just a gory historical detective action without anything outstanding to watch it for.Overall Rating: 4/1096.Time-Patrol Bon: Fujiko F. Fujio Anime Special - SF Adventure藤子·F·不二雄アニメスペシャル SFアドベンチャー T·P[タイムパトロール]ぼん [1989-IV]Gallop (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, AdventureA Japanese schoolboy, Heibon, is enlisted in the efforts of the time patrol to keep the past out of trouble.It must be marked as anime for kids as protagonists and their acquaintances are kids, they easily fly through time breaking all possible physics laws and enemies are caricaturish and defeated in comedy manner.Overall Rating: 4/1097.Isewan Taifuu Monogatari伊勢湾台風物語 [1989-IV] Mushi Production (Dropped 0/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaOn September 26, 1959, Super Typhoon #15 (also known as "T5915", "Vera", or "Isewan Typhoon"), struck the coast of Japan with the maximum wind speed of 305 km/h, causing over 5,000 dead or missing plus over 30,000 injured, the heaviest casualty caused by a single typhoon in Japan in 20th century. This animated movie was produced on the 30th anniversary of the tragedy in order to commemorate the dead and survivors.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1098.Hyper-Psychic Geo GaragaGaragaギャラガ HYPER-PSYCHIC-GEO GARAGA [1989-IV] Aubec (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiThe year is 2755. As a result of a system malfunction, the cargo ship XeBeC goes off-course in a warp gate and ends up within the orbit of the distant planet Garaga. After crashing on Garaga's surface, the crew must find ways to survive from hideous monsters, rabid ape soldiers, and a race of mysterious psychics.A lot of unmemorable characters, total craziness with esper generals, rushed ending don't leave this anime a chance.Overall Rating: 4/10

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VN of the Month August 2022 - Natsu no Owari

By kivandopulus, August 31, 2022

VN of the Month 2022

From two summer works that qualify for the race, my choice isNatsu no Owari1.beat refle[220801] qureate1Atsushi Yubihara meets the talking cat Momiji while cleaning the massage parlor formerly run by his late grandfather.Moments after he attempts to uncover her true identity in spite of his confusion, a loan collector appears to reclaim what his grandfather owes. Fed unreasonable repayment terms, he starts to shrink into himself until Momiji shares with him a most mysterious power...He has but a single month to make enough money to return what was loaned, marking the start of his troubled everyday life as a masseuse!There's no time to question his power, or why there's a talking cat, or anything else!Atsushi must focus on his somewhat to very quirky customers and relieving the stress that ails them, all in time for the impending loan repayment!Gameplay title2.Apathy: Narugami Gakuen Nana Fushigiアパシー鳴神学園七不思議[220804]MebiusShuichi Sakagami, a first-year student and member of the newspaper club, decides to listen to scary stories told by seven storytellers assembled by his upperclassmen to produce a feature on the school’s seven wonders for the school paper.However, when he opened the door to the club room, there were only six people.He went ahead and started the meeting on the school’s seven wonders without waiting on the seventh, unseen person, but a disturbing atmosphere filled the room.The thought that he shouldn’t hold this meeting crossed his mind, but it was too late to turn back.What kinds of stories will the six people share? And what awaits him at the end…?A massive-scale story and Takiya Iijima’s largest yet.Console exclusive3.Mayonaka Gakuen Sanpo真夜中学園さんぽ[220811]Hautecouture Inc.1In the summer of third year of high school the movie club is in danger of shutting down! Make a movie with girls as actors till Cultural festival so that it could survive.All age just for some cuteness4.HAPPY SAIN† SHEOL-HAPPY SAIN† SHEOL- ハッピーセイント・シェオル[220813]Hankei 122px no Meido, Seiniku JousaiThis is a story about a group of very ordinary girls.Two thousand years ago, the Pestis Disaster swept through the land, corrupting all living things and making it to difficult to live on the land. For those that still wish to live on this dead land, a temple was established. It was known as Saint Sheol of the Underworld.With the help of a distant relative, I moved to the capital that I had longed to live in, and began work as a trainee priest at Saint Sheol.Every day I endured pain and suffering in this unfamiliar land. On one particular day, when I was in truly dire straits, an angel appeared before me in my dreams. “Don’t worry,” she gently whispered. It was truly a vision that seemed impossible. I knew the face of that angel.Before the looming disaster stood 6 girls. Within the deepest corner of the temple was fear, miracles, love… and lust.Having touched the darkest darkness the world has seen, one must now face the dazzling light.Thus I pose this question.Whose wings did I see that day?Amateur group as developer, but it's picked for localization, so will probably get better coverage in a year5.Amanatsuアマナツ[220826]Azarashi SoftSurrounded by the blue sea and green mountains, the protagonist moved there.For him, who has been struggling with the competitive society of the city, this is not a place to retreat, but a new battlefield.――It was supposed to be.But, there was no such thing.From the first day at his new school, he is taken out by his classmates, enjoying what they do, and being inspired by them.Meanwhile, the three girls that the protagonist met also changed him again: a bright and lively kouhai who has a shocking encounter, Amahara Kogane; a shrine maiden senpai who looks out of this world but is surprisingly mischievous, Kaminashi Yashiro; a tsundere girl and daughter of the landlord who takes care of the protagonist, Ainokura Kazuha.In the vividness of summer, the love that is born between them will eventually turns into a deep love.Friendship and love are interwoven.A love story that only students can tell begins.Hayase Yuu is a quite known writer by SMEE games. No masterpiece for sure, but at least fun enough.6.Natsu no Owari夏ノ終熄[220826]CUBESummer in the countryside, rich in nature. The end of the world for two people.After graduating from college, Yuuji found a job, but had to retired after less than a year due to physical problems he got from his workplace.After much consideration, he decided to move to his grandparents' house in the countryside, which was vacant.During his recuperation, he spent his days making videos of his rural life and uploading them on video websites.The videos he uploaded gained a lot of attention, and when he was finally able to make a living from the income he earned from his videos, a global pandemic broke out.People all over the world were dying. Fortunately, Yuuji was not infected.One by one, people in his village fell ill, and after he saw the last person in his village off;"I wonder if I will die someday, too."Yuuji thought to himself, and lived in apathy.Then he meets a girl named Mio, who casually comes to his village, and he remembers the joy of living once again.Single heroine usually means more emphasis, more complex story and better atmosphere overall. Execution is good enough to live up to expectations.7.Muyuu Senkyou Romanesque: Chronicles of Refugia夢游仙境ロマネスク：Chronicles of Refugia[220729]medium1In the year 23XX, the world as we know it has come to an end.Global warming has caused the sea levels to rise, submerging coastal cities in every nation—a mass extinction event that forever changed life on what remains of the surface.This extreme climate change sparked violent conflicts in which android soldiers and drone strikes destroyed even more of the land. Now that the last dregs of humanity live within the confines of designated shelters, for the first time, they are forced to accept outsiders in order to secure their own safety.You see, not everyone who looks normal on the outside is human on the inside. And while the rest of the world sleeps, these non-humans are slowly taking over…Game is localized and has English reviews

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Anime of the Year 1987 - Ouritsu Uchuugun: Honneamise no Tsubasa

By kivandopulus, August 21, 2022

Anime of the Year

Ouritsu Uchuugun: Honneamise no Tsubasais the only borderline masterpiece I noted in 1987.1.Ai no Wakakusa MonogatariTales of Little Women愛の若草物語 [1987-I]Nippon Animation (Dropped 3/48)Tags:HistoricalDrama, Slice of LifeMeg, faithful and gentle, Jo, independent and energetic, Beth, quiet and shy, Amy, amiable and precocious–the four sisters live vigorously and happily at home with their gentle mother while waiting for their father to return from the Civil War. Helping each other, they challenge their fates and grow up to become wonderful women.There were two movies before, so I get the concept. There will be another series with a lot of humor. This series is pretty serious and not to my liking, loses in comparison a lot. Only good if you really want to know characters better or follow Civil War.Overall Rating: 5/102.Kikou Senki DragonarMetal Armor Dragonar機甲戦記ドラグナー [1987-I]Sunrise (Dropped 3/48)Tags:Mecha, SpaceAdventure, Sci-FiA.D. 2087 - the United Lunar Empire Giganos wages war on the Earth Federation Military to take control of the planet and establish a "rebirth" of the human race. During an invasion of a colony by Giganos' forces, three civilian men stumble upon a trio of top-secret Metal Armor units called "Dragonars" and pilot them to combat the enemy forces.Sunrise manages to make this mecha watchable, but it's rather bland, generic and just a Gundam copycat with three protagonists instead of one .Overall Rating: 5/103.Shin Maple Town Monogatari: Palm Town-hen新メイプルタウン物語パームタウン編 [1987-I]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/44)Tags:Fantasy, Slice of LifeThe story take place in new town called "Palm Town" which it is the new town that Patty and her Aunt Jane moved to since Jane's husband George run a medical center there. However, Patty faces some troubles because she doesn't get used to the new town and misses her hometown and also her friends. Nevertheless, she mets up with Alice and gets along with her. Soon they become best friends and are hanging out together everyday experience new things and enjoying their time. They meet a lot of different people in order to make many friends and unforgettable memories full of fun.This is a kids show, so can't be to my liking. All those values of friendship and morals can't be enjoyed in older age.Overall Rating: 5/104.Bubblegum Crisisバブルガムクライシス [1987-I]AIC (Finished 8/8)Tags:ShounenAdult Cast, MechaAdventure, Sci-FiThe year is 2032, seven years after the Second Great Kanto Earthquake decimated Tokyo. Now, the city is reborn as MegaTokyo, built from the labors of mechanical beasts known as "Boomers." Originally created to benefit humanity, the mysterious corporation known as Genom now produces Boomers with incredible destructive power as a new type of advanced weaponry, capable of disguising themselves as humans.The AD Police is a new special unit to counter the ever-increasing Boomer-related crimes. Overwhelmed by the sheer amount of crimes and disparity in strength, the AD Police poses little opposition to the Boomers. A mysterious vigilante force known as the Knight Sabers, wearing powersuits more advanced than the military, is the citizens' only hope for protection. Led by Sylia Stingray, Priscilla "Priss" Asagiri, Nene Romanova, and Linna Yamazaki, these beautiful girls take out any Boomer that steps out of line.I remember some more recent representatives of franchise, and recollections are quiet good. But this series is basically some cases usually linked to androids and done by a team of several girls in battle suits. Given that personalities aren't developed well and cases being not really interesting, as well as very little humor, I consider this series to be inferior to Dirty Pair. Another reason is that I could not enjoy it at all apart of some enemy designs. Last episode released in 1991 tried to bring some diversity to the concept, but too little too late.Overall Rating: 6/105.Digital Devil Story: Megami Tenseiデジタル・デビル物語〈ストーリ〉女神転生 [1987-I]animate Film (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mythology, Psychological, SchoolAdventure, Drama, Fantasy, Horror, Mystery, SupernaturalAkemi Nakajima, is a high school student with a genius talent for computer programming.One day, Yumiko Shirasagi is transferred to the same class as him. She feels she knows Nakajima from somewhere, but doesn't try to deal with it. After school, Nakajima and a couple of classmates held a ceremony to summon the devil. Nakajima summons the devil Loki on the computer display while presenting a female offering. What will happen to Yumiko, who witnessed the scene?Never played Megami Tensei games. What I can say about the movie is that it's a visually shocking horror with a dip into mythology, computers and occult stuff. A wild mix, indeed, but I rather see it as appeal to unconsciousness and obscure stuff to get an image of something meaningful, which it is not.Overall Rating: 5/106.Twilight QトワイライトQ [1987-I]Studio Deen (Finished 2/2)Tags:PsychologicalMystery, Sci-FiA Knot in TimeHigh school students Mayumi and Kiwako are relishing their summer vacation at the beach; however, when Mayumi discovers a presumably lost camera while scuba diving, she cannot help but feel an insatiable curiosity. Upon developing the camera's film, she is shocked to find herself photographed alongside an unknown man. Enlisting the help of Kiwako's older brother, the three find out something even more troubling: the camera model has yet to be released. In turn, Mayumi becomes obsessed with discovering the origin of the peculiar camera and its mysterious photograph.File 538Airplanes have been vanishing from the sky! Even stranger, rumor has it that the disappearing aircraft have been turning into giant carp. Meanwhile, a freelance detective investigates a run-down apartment on the outskirts of town, where he finds a middle-aged man and a young girl with a penchant for fish. Unable to identify the two, the investigator enters their room, only to find it empty save for a document that reads, "This story has been prepared for you, my successor... who should be visiting this room in due time.First episode is rather bland. Only second can be called psychological, but it alone can not apply for masterpiece status due to length and experimental visuals.Overall Rating: 6/107.Dirty Pair: Lovely Angels yori Ai wo Kometeダーティペアラブリーエンジェルより愛をこめて [1987-I]Sunrise (Finished 2/2)Tags:DetectiveAction, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-FiReleased direct to video in Japan after the original TV series was canceled, this OVA is actually the final two episodes of the TV series.Length of two episodes roughly amounts to 40 minutes, and that's the only thing that prevents it getting a masterpiece score from me. Humor, conversations and plot are nice as usual.Overall Rating: 6/108.Warau Hyouteki笑う標的 [1987-I]Pierrot (Finished 1/1)Tags:Horror, MysteryYuzuru was an average teenager who had almost forgotten that he was betrothed to Azusa when he was only six! Now arriving to claim what she feels is rightfully hers, only Satomi (Yuzuru's current girlfriend) stands in her way... and with the mysterious and frightening powers that Azusa brings, Satomi won't stand in her way for long!Just a horror with little sense behind it.Overall Rating: 5/109.Maryuu Senki魔龍戦紀 [1987-I]AIC (Finished 3/3)Tags:Fantasy, HorrorOnce upon a time, there was a certain family having strong influence on the rule of the Imperial Court. They had their own might called "Kidou" and yet got hated because of the might itself. At last, the patriarch of the family was entrapped to his death, and all the family was doomed to ruin... The present day — the survived descendants of this family, now calling themselves "Kidousyuu" schemed to resurrect their murdered patriarch once again, and the ferocious evil spell went into action.The amount of gore in this anime is truly unsettling. Even nudity in this anime is linked with gore and thus feels different. Anyway, all other elements are lacking, so it remains just a bloody B-action movie.Overall Rating: 5/1010.Body Jack: Tanoshii Yutai Ridatsuボディジャック楽しい幽体離脱 [1987-I]Bandai (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, EcchiDr. Toyama takes control of the body of a beautiful girl with his strange invention. He lets the young Asagedani "slip into" her body so he can see how it real feels to be a girl. Then Komaba's classmate, the equally beautiful Nakano, surprises "him" and mistakes his activities for a sexual advance from her friend.Why is an evident hentai disguised as ecchi... no idea. It has no value apart of hentai, so can't give it a score.Overall Rating: 0/1011.Gakuen Tokusou Hikaruon学園特捜ヒカルオン [1987-I]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:Martial Arts, School, Super PowerActionHikaru is at first sight a student like others but actually it is a super hero defending the Earth of the demons. He has a powerful super bike and a combat suit. Inspired by the classic Space Sheriff (Uchuu Keiji) trilogy of the Metal Heroes Tokusatsu franchise, namely Space Sheriff's Gavan and Sharivan.I should have blocked it for its 30 min length. With ridiculous synopsis like this nothing good was possible. Graphics and enemies were ok... that's all.Overall Rating: 2/1012.Minna Agechau♡みんなあげちゃう♡ [1987-I]J.C.Staff (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Romance, EcchiA beautiful day Rokurou, a student, was to masturbate when a beautiful girl knocks on his door: You need a virgin? And so begins the story. Rokurou did not know what it was that this beautiful girl was a millionaire family.I don't know what to say. Title could easily be quest for orgasm to explain all the stupidity. The whole super rich and super perverted family sets up trainings and obstacles to reach this ultimate goal. How funny does it sound?Overall Rating: 4/1013.Hell Targetヘルターゲット [1987-I]Nakamura Production (Finished 1/1)Tags:SpaceHorror, Sci-FiA spaceship is lost near the forbidden planet of Inferno II. Some years later, a second ship with a crew of nine gets there and encounters a monster that rapidly makes mince meat of most of them. The sole survivor, Makurou Kitazato, must destroy the monster before it can surprise a third ship that is already en route.Another variation of Ridley Scott's alien concept, and it does not even get to a clear ending, so not impressive .Overall Rating: 4/1014.Elf 17エルフ・17 [1987-I]Agent 21 (Finished 1/1)Tags:Martial Arts, MechaAdventure, ComedyMuscat Tyler is the 108th prince of the Galaxy Empire and is known as an eccentric person. He travels around the universe accompanying a Walking Arsenal, K.K, and Lu of the Light Wing Race, the strongest creature in the universe. Wherever they go, there is trouble.I don't understand the need for this anime. Super strong elf first wins tournament then defeats some baddies. The end. Total waste of time.Overall Rating: 4/1015.Yume kara, Samenai夢から、さめない [1987-I]Shaft (Finished 1/1)Tags:SchoolRomanceStudent Takao is inexorably drawn toward Sao despite class rumors that she has appeared in a porno movie.Very short boring SOL that only has sighs, looks and couple phrases in-between. If just some emotions is enough for you, it may be enjoyable. Without real plot or developed characters it has zero value for me.Overall Rating: 4/1016.Salamander沙羅曼蛇 [1987-I]Pierrot (Finished 3/3)Tags:Adventure, Sci-FiThree tales based on the Gradius video game series by Konami. The planet Latis is under attack by the Space Dragon Salamander and it's war planet, the Bacterian horde destroying everything in sight, their defenses ineffective and losing all hope, three heroes from the planet Gradius join Lord British in defense of his beloved planet.Then in a prequel, a girl from a distant planet brings an ominous warning to the planet Gradius, the Bacterians and how three people become heroes of the galaxy.Then we jump to the future, after the signing of a peace treaty, one of our heroes gets captured by the Bacterians, can the military might of Gradius and our remaining heroes save the prisoner from a fate worse than death.I actually don't remember good examples of game story getting transferred to the screen. Without game experience I value the story and composition very poorly here .Overall Rating: 5/1017.Mugen Shinshi: Bouken Katsugeki-henDream Dimension Gentleman 夢幻紳士　冒険活劇編 [1987-I]Gallop (Finished 1/1)Tags:Fantasy, Horror, MysteryWhen a strange group of men attempt to kidnap Atsuko Fukune, a dancer at a club, she seeks the help of Mamiya Mugen, a famous detective - who also happens to be a child. When it turns out that other girls have gone missing, Mamiya, with the help of his butler Alucard, springs into action to solve the mystery.I can't stand detectives with a genius detective protagonist. After I saw flying crocodiles the only remaining thought was for this stupidity to end sooner.Overall Rating: 4/1018.Ouritsu Uchuugun: Honneamise no Tsubasa王立宇宙軍オネアミスの翼[1987-I] Gainax (Finished 1/1)Tags:Military, SpaceAction, Drama, Sci-FiShirotsugh "Shiro" Lhadatt may be a cadet in the Kingdom of Honneamise's Royal Space Force (RSF), but he has never been in space before—in fact, nobody has. The RSF is often regarded as a failure both by the country's citizens and a government more interested in precipitating a war with a neighboring country than scientific achievement. Following the funeral of a fellow cadet, an unmotivated Shiro is walking in the city one night, when he bumps into Riquinni Nonderaiko, a young, pious woman, genuinely enthusiastic about the significance of space exploration.As the two gradually bond, Riquinni's encouragement inspires Shiro to volunteer as a pilot for a prospective rocket ship, potentially becoming Honneamise's first man in space. Shiro and the RSF are soon joined by a team of elderly but eager scientists and engineers, and together, they embark on a mission to mold their nation's space program into a success. However, their efforts soon catch the attention of the government, which seems to have a different plan for the RSF in mind. Even as the odds are stacked against them, these men and women continue to stubbornly look to the sky, because somewhere among the frontiers of space may lie humanity's last chance at redemption.I have zero piety towards space, and I have rather strict standards for story. Wings of Honneamise has a rather poor story and even worse conclusion. However, passion of Gainax made every second of the movie meaningful and developing. Sometimes it was perspective, sometimes background, sometimes panorama - a lot of situational or locational humor. Ending is pretentious crap, to be honest. I absolutely have not understood the meaning of rape attempt scene and why actually made kid smile, basically, both times were release of some emotion, and that's it. In the end movie presents a nice setting, genius directorship and lack of any sense or conclusion, thus can't rate it high, sadly. I hope it's not Angel Egg influence as citations from holy book are the only keys to any sense.Overall Rating: 7/1019.Dirty Pair: The MovieDirty Pair: Project Edenダーティペア the Movie [1987-I](Finished 1/1)Tags:DetectiveAction, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-FiAgerna is a planet rich in Vizorium, the one mineral necessary to space travel. So when a series of mysterious attacks on mining operations has the governments of the world pointing fingers and blaming each other, the World Welfare & Works Association naturally sends in their top agents to investigate. But are the lovely angels up to the task of stopping a mad scientist bent on taking a long dormant alien race to its final evolutionary form? Throw in a thief who's hunting a bottle of World War II-vintage wine and it's a safe bet that nobody on the planet is safe. It's more chaos, more mayhem and even more destruction than ever before as the Dirty Pair take on their wildest case yet!I really dislike genetics that is the main theme here. Also, there's not enough humor here - even specials had more. I had big hopes, but in this state it's more of a disappointment..Overall Rating: 6/1020.Grimm Douwa: Kin no Toriグリム童話金の鳥 [1987-I]Madhouse(Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Fantasy"Kin No Tori" is an adaptation of the homonymous fairy tale "The Golden Bird" by Brothers Grimm.A golden apple is stolen from the King's garden. The King orders his three sons to guard the apples in turn and to find out who is the thief. When the youngest son, Hansu, presents a feather that he got from the golden bird that stole the apple the king sends his three sons to bring this bird to him and so Hansu journey begins.Completed in 1984, this film was shelved for three years before being theatrically released.1984 and 1987 are very different due to rapid animation technology jump. Sadly, kid content.Overall Rating: 5/1021.Batsu & Terryバツ＆テリー [1987-I]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenSchool, Team SportsComedy, Drama, SportsBats & Terry are the two tough guys in the school. They don't take crap from anyone, not even teachers. They will fight anyone necessary, and will defend strangers (especially pretty girls) from danger. They're good at it too. Some people are in terror of them, and some love them.When they rescue one especially pretty girl from a gang they fight over her, but it's all friendly and they both recognize that she has some scars. The police hassle them and yet admire them when they break up the gang.Oh, and they're the star pitcher and catcher for the high school baseball team!Baseball, motorcycle and hooligans - what can go wrong? Sunrise directorship makes it barely watchable, but not enjoyable nonetheless.Overall Rating: 4/1022.City Hunterシティーハンター [1987-II]Sunrise (Dropped 4/51)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, Mystery"City Hunter" is a notorious contractor group with the call sign "XYZ." No matter the job, they will take it, cleaning up the scum on the streets of Tokyo. The key member of City Hunter is Ryou Saeba; armed with his trusty Colt Python and pinpoint accuracy, he works alongside willful tomboy Kaori Makimura.Together they solve tough cases and tackle the numerous dangers that accompany their trade head-on. However, when he's not out hunting crooks and villains, Ryou finds pleasure in chasing beautiful ladies with only Kaori and her one hundred-ton hammer to keep him in check. From pickpockets and arms dealers to crime syndicates, nothing can stand in the way of Ryou Saeba when he takes aim at his next mission.Detective plus action plus jigolo. Nothing unique in this mix, closest show is probably Lupin III. I seriously don't understand its merit. Maybe it becomes evident later with more sci-fi stuff involved. Having sampled first season, no desire to watch it further, to be honest.Overall Rating: 5/1023.Kimagure Orange☆Roadきまぐれオレンジ☆ロード [1987-II]Pierrot (Dropped 3/48)Tags:ShounenSchool, Super PowerComedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of LifeKyousuke Kasuga is no stranger to being the new kid at school. Despite only being a third-year middle schooler, he has spent his entire childhood avoiding those who discover his family's paranormal powers, and he has had to change schools seven times as a result. Upon catching a beautiful girl's hat, he becomes optimistic and hopes that he and his family have finally moved for the last time.When Kyousuke gets to school, however, he learns a different story. The elegant girl he just met turns out to be none other than Madoka Ayukawa—also known as "Madoka the Pick"—a delinquent known to smoke, drink, and get into fights. Her best friend is first-year Hikaru Hiyama, a childish and energetic girl who quickly falls in love with Kyousuke. Enamored with both girls, Kyousuke tries to balance a delicate triangle of emotions, all while dealing with the antics brought about by a family with paranormal powers.Last time I sampled it I got an impression of a super ordinary classical SOL. This time I get the appeal and if feels better than Touch. At the same time there's a lot less comedy than in Maison Ikkoku which I rate higher. I see no luring concept behind this show. It's easy to watch, but it does not mean it's enjoyable for me.Overall Rating: 6/1024.Hokuto no Ken 2Fist of the North Star 2北斗の拳2 [1987-II]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/43)Tags:Martial Arts, Super PowerAction, DramaIn the second series after Raoh has been defeated by Kenshiro a new rival appears. The Gentou Kouken warriors. Falco the successor of the Gentou Kouken takes orders from an evil ruler by the name of Jacko. He claims to be the man chosen by the Tentei and issues orders to his subordinates to capture anyone living in order to build up his Imperial Capital. Kenshiro once again rises out of the shadows and puts an end to his tyrannical ways. Amidst the mayhem Lynn gets captured and gets taken to the land of the Shura where only ruthless fighters exist. Now Kenshiro must pursue the captor and defeat the 3 Rasho of the land in order to escape with his life and with Lynn.All the memes were shown in first season. Have not seen new ones in first three episodes of this one. And this show is so bad - it's only for the memes, sadly.Overall Rating: 4/1025.Akai Koudan Zillion赤い光弾ジリオン [1987-II]Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 3/31)Tags:MilitaryAction, Adventure, Sci-FiThe story takes place on the planet Maris in the year 2387. Around this time, the Nozas started to genocidally kill all humans in order to lay eggs and reproduce on the planet. Three mysterious guns dubbed the "Zillion Weapon System" appear and three teens (JJ, Champ, and Apple) are chosen to wield them as the White Knights in order to fight back against the Nozas.A slightly better than average mecha with a compulsory evil emperor and three battle suit super heroes.Overall Rating: 5/1026.Hiatari Ryoukou!Sunny Ryoko 陽あたり良好！ [1987-II]Group TAC (Dropped 3/48)Tags:ShoujoSchoolComedy, Romance, SportsKishimoto Kasumi, a 15-year-old girl, was supposed to live at her auntie's house in order to go to high school since April. However, when she moved to the house she was surprised with the fact that there were already four new male students living in the same house. To make the matter worse, that day while she was taking a bath, Takasugi Yusaku, one of those boys, came into the bath and saw her naked. This is how Kasumi's troublesome high school days started.Imitation of Maison Ikkoku which still remains the top concept for episodical SOL comedy for me. Hiatari Ryoukou goes slightly behind. Then Orange Road, and, finally, Touch .Overall Rating: 6/1027.Esper MamiMami the Psychicエスパー魔美 [1987-II]Shin-Ei Animation (Dropped 4/119)Tags:School, Super PowerComedy, Supernatural, EcchiMami Sakura used to be a normal junior high school student, but she happened to acquire supernatural powers. Using her powers and with the help of her best friend, Mr. Takahata, she solves mysterious occurrences. When she senses someone needs help, she uses the "Teleportation Gun" and transports herself there. She then saves the world in trouble with her psychic powers, such as telekinesis and telepathy.Esper is basically a limited mage, so it's just a usual magical girl. The unusual part is how ecchi can be incorporated here. And the truth is ... it's not. The whole ecchi tag is based on one nude picture displayed in first episode, and then nothing similar happens, not even pantsu flash .Overall Rating: 5/1028.Black Magic M-66ブラックマジックＭ（マリオ）－６６ [1987-II]AIC(Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryAction, Sci-FiWhen Sybel, a freelance reporter, discovers a military plane crash, she is thrilled by the prospect of getting her hands on the latest inside scoop. However, she is unaware that the plane was carrying two top-secret prototype android assassins who will stop at nothing to destroy their target. As the military frantically tries to clean up its mess, Sybel races against time to find and protect the robots' targeted victim—all while documenting the military's misconduct—before it is too late.A mix of Blade runner and Terminator movies as rogue assassin android pursues the target, and reporter girl basically becomes a bodyguard. Nothing big.Overall Rating: 5/1029.Project A-Ko 2: Daitokuji Zaibatsu no InbouプロジェクトA子2 大徳寺財閥の陰謀 [1987-II]APPP (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, Super PowerAction, Comedy, Sci-FiThree weeks after the incident that left Captain Napolipolita's ship balancing on top of Graviton City, A-Ko and the gang go on summer vacation. While A-Ko ponders losing some weight and B-Ko devises another plan to defeat her redheaded rival to win C-Ko, Napolipolita and Spy-D experience severe homesickness - begging for a way to return to their home planet. Meanwhile, Hikari Daitokuji - B-Ko's father and the CEO of the Daitokuji Financial Group - arms the local military with new mecha to attack Napolipolita's ship and obtain its advanced technology.It managed to get even worse than original with only poor humor left. With humor all fanservice is gone too. So what's left is only stupidity.Overall Rating: 4/1030.Space Fantasia 2001 Nightsスペースファンタジア　２００１夜物語 [1987-II](Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenSpaceDrama, Sci-FiBased on Yukinobu Hoshino's 1984 manga in "Action Comics; shot in "Super Perspective Technique".It is the 21st century, and two young people were chosen. Adam was sent off into a space ship and was sent off into outer space...All that generalistic space romance - Earth nostalgy crap mashed up. Without decent story it tries to affect emotions, but does it poorly as well .Overall Rating: 5/1031.Sengoku Kitan YoutoudenYotoden: Chronicle of the Warlord Period戦国奇譚妖刀伝 [1987-II]J.C.Staff (Finished 3/3)Tags:ActionMartial Arts, MythologyIn the year 1580, a man named Lord Nobunaga Oda sends hoards of unholy armies across Japan, slaying all who stand in their way. A young ninja escapes her villages' destruction with a short sword, one of the three mystical weapons that can end Oda's rule. During her quest, she is joined by two other ninjas who wield the other two weapons of legend, the sacred sword and spear.Know why Oda was called half-demon? Because he summoned demons! Nice battles, but overall not impressive.Overall Rating: 5/1032.Choujuu Kishin Dancougar: God Bless DancougarGod Bless Dancougar超獣機神ダンクーガゴッド・ブレス・ダンクーガ [1987-II](Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiAfter destroying the Zorbados Empire, the Jyusenki-tai/Cyber Beast Force has expanded and are training new recruits. But after failing to stop a monster that seems to be a remnant of the Zorbados Empire from destroying a city, the CBF is thrown in jail. Now the CBF have to escape from jail and find out what was behind the monster they fought.Original had too banal plot. This one is a bit more varied.Overall Rating: 5/1033.Pants no Ana: Mambo de Ganbo!パンツの穴まんぼでGANBO! [1987-II]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:SchoolComedy, EcchiA collection of short stories, all of which are perverted to various degrees.Not translated. Lots of strange ecchi-related stories, nothing special or good.Overall Rating: 4/1034.Circuit Angel: Ketsui no Starting Gridサーキットエンジェル　決意のスターティング・グリッド [1987-II](Finished 1/1)Tags:RacingActionMariko is tough yet kind girl who is really into motorcycles. She ends up in a race to settle things between the rich son of bike maker and herself.Yay, serious racing. I tried to focus attention, but it's really hard to do when everything is so bland.Overall Rating: 2/1035.Shin Kabukichou Story Hana no Asukagumi!新歌舞伎町ストーリー花のあすか組! [1987-II]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoDelinquentsAdventure, DramaBased on the popular girl's manga Hana no Asukagumi! (The Glorious Asuka Gang!) by Takaguchi Satosumi.Animation of manga about women gang wars, so it introduced a large number of members from boys and girls gangs. There are quite some fights and enough violence. Don't see the need for such anime.Overall Rating: 5/1036.Youjuu ToshiWicked City妖獣都市 [1987-II]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:Gore, Mythology, Super PowerAction, Adventure, Drama, HorrorThere is Earth, our familiar world, and then there is the Black World, a parallel dimension that very few people are aware of. For centuries, a pact between the two worlds has been observed to maintain peace, and terms must be negotiated and renewed soon to continue relative harmony.This time around, there is a militant faction that will stop at nothing to prevent the signing of a new treaty for inter-dimensional peace. Two agents of the elite organization known as the Black guards—defenders of the balance between the two worlds—are charged with ensuring the success of the treaty.Director Yoshiaki Kawajiri (Ninja Scroll) blends stylish eroticism, graphic horror and pulse-pounding action as these two race to consummate the peace treaty in time.Story was unexpected , atmospheric and fresh, but to call it a masterpiece would be an overkill.Overall Rating: 6/1037.Touch 3: Kimi ga Toorisugita Ato ni - Don't Pass Me Byタッチ３君が通り過ぎたあとに -DON`T PASS ME BY- [1987-II]Group TAC (Finished 1/1)Tags:School, Team SportsDrama, SportsCompilation movie of the third year of the Touch timeline. Contain many important plot differences, added scenes and the complete removal of an important character.Baseball exclusive movie, and thus the worst of all Touch movies.Overall Rating: 5/1038.Takarajima (Movie)宝島　劇場版 [1987-II]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, Drama, Mystery, SupernaturalA 88-minute theatrical recut of the original Takarajima TV series.Not translated. Series was nice, but developed really slowly, so I'm really grateful for movie form. Very nice in every aspect, but score decision is easy as there is a limit to the score an untranslated work can get.Overall Rating: 6/1039.Machine Robo: Butchigiri Battle Hackersマシンロボぶっちぎりバトルハッカーズ [1987-III]Ashi Productions (Dropped 3/31)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiA ship crewed by earthlings crashes on Chronos. Believing themselves stranded, the crew volunteers to fight along the Machine Robos.Not translated. I gave original a 3, but that might be too generous this time.Overall Rating: 2/1040.Transformers: The☆Headmastersトランスフォーマーザ☆ヘッドマスターズ [1987-III]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/35)Tags:ShounenMecha, SpaceHeadmasters starts with Galvatron leading a new batch of Destrons to wage war on Cybertron, the Destron Headmasters. The Cybertrons are rescued by the arrival of the Cybertron Headmasters, led by Fortress (Cerebros, the head of Fortress Maximus). It is revealed that Fortress Maximus left Cybertron millions of years ago in search of energy, and have finally managed to come home. He explains that the Headmasters are from a planet called Master; the human-sized robots who live there built themselves Transformers-sized bodies. They can then transform themselves into the heads of the robots, and have now joined the Cybertron-Destron war.Some transformers seasons were shown on TV in my childhood... and that's the only conditions when it's possible to watch shows like that. It pains me that I still remember what different transformers turned into...Overall Rating: 2/1041.Lily C.A.T. [1987-III]Pierrot (Finished 1/1)Tags:SpaceHorror, Sci-FiThe Deep Sleep Capsules, technology that has allowed man to reach out to the stars. These chambers slow the aging process by 95%. A 20-year trip passes, and the traveler has only aged 1 year. It definitely has its advantages, but after you've been on a few trips, it sure gets very lonely.Right now, however, that's not the big issue. The year is 2264. The Syncam Corporation has sent the Saldes and its crew of 13 (and 1 cat) out into deep space to explore the potential of a newfound planet 20 years away. Soon after they awaken from their stasis, however, things are happening one after another. First, the crew learns that two of the crew are not who they claim to be. Then, one by one, crewmembers die suddenly. Then, the ship begins to turn against them. And as if it couldn't get any worse, they find another mess on their hands and it is ugly.What was supposed to be a simple exploratory mission has become a struggle for survival in the depths of space. 20 years from home, they're all alone and no one can hear them scream.Ridley Scott's alien is such a popular concept. It's more psychological due to the mystery of enemy and the fact that more than half of the team decided to oppose together rather than die one by one. Still can't recommend it with open heart as it's just survival action in the end.Overall Rating: 5/1042.Haja Taisei DangaiouGreat Planet Evil-Destroyer Dangaio 破邪大星弾劾凰 [ダンガイオー] [1987-III](Finished 3/3)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, Sci-FiFour psychic teenagers—Mia Alice, Roll Kran, Lamba Nom and Pai Thunder—are brainwashed by the scientist Dr. Tarsan as pilots of his greatest experiment—the giant robot Dangaioh. But as their memories slowly return, these pilots use their abilities and Dangaioh to combat the tyranny of Captain Galimos and the Bunker Space Pirates.Esper mecha... for the third time already. Ridiculously bad .Overall Rating: 3/1043.Hi no Tori: Yamato-henThe Phoenix: Chapter of Yamato火の鳥・ヤマト編 [1986-III]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDramaAt his father's command, Oguna, the youngest prince of Yamato, sets out to kill Takeru Kawakami, the leader of Kumaso. However, upon arriving in Kumaso territory, he is injured by the stray arrow of a young local woman named Kajika who is hunting game. Eager to compensate for the terrible mistake, she escorts Oguna to her village to treat his wound. But as the two rapidly fall in love, the prince makes a disturbing discovery: Kajika is Takeru's younger sister!Conflicted between his newfound love and family duty, Oguna seeks advice from the Phoenix, a legendary immortal bird that serves as Kumaso's guardian. Compelled to make a decision, will the Yamato prince betray his own for the woman he loves, or will he murder Kajika's brother as commissioned?Inspired by the Yamato Takeru Japanese legend, Hi no Tori: Yamato-hen chronicles the tragic story of an ill-fated couple, showing how true love can conquer hate and adversity even among the greatest of uncertainties.Somehow, ancient history phoenix episodes fail to impress me so far. Rather average.Overall Rating: 5/1044.Robot Carnivalロボット・カーニバル [1987-III] Streamline pictures (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaFantasy, Sci-Fi9 of Japan's leading animators were asked to create a short segment that followed the theme of "Robots," for their inclusion in this film. Essentially, this "movie" is 9 short films, all independant of one another. The common element is human interaction with robots, namely the consequences of creating life with one's own hands, played in nine very different ways.1: Opening (Atsuko Fukushima and Katsuhiro Otomo)2: Franken's Gears (Koji Morimoto)3: Deprive (Hidetoshi Omori)4: Presence (Yasuomi Umetsu)5: Star Light Angel (Hiroyuki Kitazume)6: Cloud (Mao Lamdo)7: A Tale of Two Robots (Hiroyuki Kitakubo)8: Nightmare (Takashi Nakamura)9: Ending (Atsuko Fukushima and Katsuhiro Otomo)There are a lot of stories and just 90 minutes length. And most of these stories are without dialogues at all. I seriously don't like omnibus format.Overall Rating: 5/1045.Kindan no Mokushiroku: Crystal TriangleCrystal Triangle禁断の黙示録クリスタルトライアングル [1987-III]animate Film (Finished 1/1)Tags:Military, MythologyAdventure, MysteryIn times of old, God gave mankind the ten commandments, and a message that has been lost to the centuries. In the present, Koichiro Kamishiro is a modern day Indiana Jones who scours (and often destroys) ruins for hints of the past, until one day he runs across a box filled with two crystal triangles. Having inadvertently run across the key to God's lost message, Kamishiro suddenly has a lot to deal with including assassination attempts by the KGB and the CIA, aliens hell-bent on destroying the Earth and the love of several women!James Bond is not the greatest concept to follow, surprise-surprise. Realization is lacking. I see nothing to watch this movie for.Overall Rating: 4/1046.Puttsun Make LoveぷッつんメイクLOVE [1987-III]Agent 21 (Finished 6/6)Tags:Comedy, Romance, EcchiBased on the manga by Amamiya Jun.At times it looked like a weak hentai, but there's enough comedy here, and some episodes aren't that much H tilt. There's still no plot and only desire of the youth to know each other better, so can't recommend it.Overall Rating: 4/1047.Mahou no Yousei Persia: Kaiten Mokuba魔法の妖精ペルシャ回転木馬 [1987-III]Pierrot (Dropped 1/1)Tags:Mahou ShoujoComedyA recap of the TV series with six and a half minutes of new footage.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1048.Dragon Ball Movie 2: Majinjou no Nemurihimeドラゴンボール魔神城のねむり姫 [1987-III]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenSuper PowerAction, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-FiGoku and Kuririn are given an assignment by Kame-Sen'nin: "Retrieve the sleeping princess from Lucifer and I will take you as my students." But the mission proves to be more perilous than originally thought.Humor is actually still good, but with mediocre story and more and more weird characters this is hardly enjoyable.Overall Rating: 6/1049.Manie-Manie: Meikyuu MonogatariManie-Manie 迷宮物語 [1986-III]Madhouse (Finished 3/3)Tags:Adventure, Fantasy, Horror, Sci-Fi, SupernaturalManie-Manie: Meikyuu Monogatari is an anthology film composed of three short films by acclaimed directors Rintaro, Yoshiaki Kawajiri, and Katsuhiro Otomo.Labyrinth LabyrinthosWhile Sachi is searching for her cat, Cicerone, they both fall through a mirror and become trapped in a mysterious, mind-bending labyrinth. They follow a clown's shadow into the distance, not knowing where it will lead them.Running ManBob Stone is a reporter working on an article about racer Zack Hugh, the ten-year reigning champion of an extremely popular and deadly automobile race. By the time the two meet, Zack's body and mind are shells of what they used to be. When the next race starts, Bob observes what happens when both man and machine are pushed to their breaking point, and what it takes to be an enduring champion.The Order to Stop ConstructionSalaryman Tsutomo Sugioka is dispatched into the heart of a dangerous jungle in order to halt a construction project after the foreman's mysterious disappearance. There, he discovers the deadly and uncontrollable world created by the automated construction robots. When the chief robot is resistant to his orders, Tsutomo must figure out another way to stop the project before his company's financial losses become too great.Anthology with under 50 minutes means 15 minutes per story. No such brief psychodelic experience can ever get anything good from me.Overall Rating: 5/1050.Saint Seiya: Jashin ErisSaint Seiya: Evil Goddess Eris聖闘士星矢邪神エリス [1987-III]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAdventure, Sci-FiEris is the goddess of chaos and uses the body of Elien, who is a friend of Hyoga, to revive herself. She obtains the golden apple to drain Athena's life energy to make her ressurection complete and to be able to turn the world in a place filled with chaos. But to be able to attack Eris, Seiya and his friends will first have to defeat the Ghost Knights.Under 50 minutes and and same horrible zodiac warriors mess as the series.Overall Rating: 4/1051.Bari Bari Densetsu (1987)バリバリ伝説 [1987-III](Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenRacingAction, DramaThe film is about 4 high-schoolers who are bike racers and illegally partake in races at night on public roads.I blamed the previous release of Bari Bari Densetsu as one big Honda advertisement. They tried to make ads smaller this time, but the second time they showed Honda in big letters everything got evident again.Overall Rating: 4/1052.MAPS: Densetsu no Samayoeru Seijin-tachiマップス伝説のさまよえる星人たち [1987-III]Gallop (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenSpaceAction, Adventure, Drama, Sci-FiWhile looking for the ledgendary Mapman, the last surviving member of the Nomad Star tribe, Lipumira finds him in Tokyo. His name is Gen Tokishima and he is the only one able to get one part of the starmap hidden within the Earth. After retrieving the piece, Gen must make a decision to follow Lipumira in her foolhardy search to find the remaining pieces of the starmap or stay on Earth. He makes his decision, only to find his girlfriend has beaten him to the spaceship as she wants to come as well. Unfortunately, as Gen learns the secret of the starmap, Lipumira's sisters have plans to stop her and will stop her at any cost.Huge alien ship kidnaps a school boy at broad daylight just because his body is supposed to keep a part of the map... even huger alien ship appears to defeat first ship and get kidnapper with kidnapped kids to that second ship ! And both ship captains are espers! And the kid! There's so much stupidity in store that it's overwhelming .Overall Rating: 3/1053.Chironup no Kitsuneチロヌップのきつね [1987-III]Group TAC (Finished 1/1)Tags:DramaFoxes Ken and Chin become the proud parents of cubs, Koro and Kan, who enjoy a carefree life on the northern Japanese island of Chironup. They befriend a fisherman and his wife but are forced to run for their lives when soldiers on a military exercise decide to take home some fox pelts as souvenirs. A sweet little film that obliquely symbolizes the plight of Japan's aboriginal Ainu people and the northern islands that have been contested with Russia since they were occupied by Stalin's soldiers in 1945.Average in every way.Overall Rating: 5/1054.Aitsu to Lullaby: Suiyobi no Cinderellaあいつとララバイ　水曜日のシンデレラ [1987-III]Pierrot (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenDrama, RomanceBased on a shounen manga by Kusunoki Michiharu serialised in Weekly Shounen Magazine.
On a Wednesday morning, Kenji goes touring to Hakone pass with his girlfriend Tomomi. There, he sees other riders waiting for something and stops his bike. One of the riders, Hayase Junichi, explains to him that a legendary female driver nicknamed Wednesday Cinderella passes this place every Wednesday in her white Porsche. Kenji becomes interested in this mysterious driver; however, racing with her proves more dangerous than it first seems to be.Not translated. Brand of this anime is Kawasaki ! How did I know? By large letters on the bike, of course ! Anyway, this anime is pretty weird , because bike is competing with a car most of the time... which is freaking weird considered that car follows super close causing crashes. This ad is a bit better than previous bike ads, but it's still an ad.Overall Rating: 4/1055.TWD Express Rolling TakeoffTWD EXPRESS ローリングテイクオフ [1987-III]Gallop (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Sci-FiBased on a manga by Hijiri Yuki, serialised in Comic Nora.Note: Shown in theaters as a double bill with the anime feature MAPS: Densetsu no Samayoeru Seijin-tachi.Anything shown alongside MAPS would look great. TWD Express is a space logistics company in grave debts. A girl with self-regeneration first gets rescued, then kidnapped. And in every pinch situation the same trump card of captain rage is used. Pathetic overall .Overall Rating: 4/1056.Bug tte Honey: Megarom Shoujo Mai 4622Bugってハニーメガロム少女舞4622 [1987-III]Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, ComedyMovie of the Bug tte Honey.Not translated. First movie left a poor impression on me. This one is also very random. Buildings look like toys... huge toys in space... cute enemies... bridges made of cards... and the biggest enemy is an ally who was experimented on. It's all so stupid that pains me physically to watch .Overall Rating: 2/1057.Dead Heatデッドヒート [1987-III]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-Fi, SportsFailed driver Makoto is ready to quit the business until he is approached by Hayami Go, who offers him a hyper-engine to change his fortunes. Claiming to be "Japan's first 3D anime," this curio using the VHD-3D system features 21st-century youngsters racing "FX" machines - predictable crosses between motorcycles and mechas.Yay, chopped down to first episode racing mecha that I can't find a reason to recommend.Overall Rating: 4/1058.Lady Lady!!レディレディ！！ [1987-IV]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/21)Tags:ShoujoHistoricalDramaLynn lost her mother at the age of five and lives in with her father in England. Lynn's father is not able to be by her side all the time because of his busy schedule and Lynn is often left on her own. Despite having to endure the harsh loneliness, Lynn strives to protect her promise with her mother to become a strong and elegant lady.Not translated. This series is about a girl five years old... not cool, but at least some continuation should be with her getting older and older. Let's just say it's definitely not Heidi from Alps, plus luxury environment does not add charm . For a five-year-old Lynn communicates with any adults and controls her body like a pro with occasional artificially looking slips. All I saw were endless new relatives for Lynn to deal with - hardly engaging or enternaining.Overall Rating: 5/1059.Anime Sanjuushiアニメ三銃士 [1987-IV]Gallop (Dropped 3/52)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, Drama, RomanceIn 1625, the young D'Artagnan leaves his village in Gascony to embark for Paris with his grandparents' blessings, taking only his father's sword and a letter of introduction. Seeking audience with Tréville, Captain of the Musketeers of the Guard and his late father's comrade, the poor nobleman aims to become a great hero in the service of King Louis XIII.The young adventurer is astonished by the massive size of Paris, but also overwhelmed. He wanders the city streets, befriending a young orphan named Jean. However, he also ends up offending three of the Musketeers of the Guard: Porthos, Aramis, and Athos. Confronted by the Parisian guards over their illegal dueling, D'Artagnan and the Musketeers fend off five of Cardinal Richelieu's soldiers, and the four of them quickly become friends.The four new comrades set off to stop the Cardinal from starting war between England and France, and protect the image of Queen Anne d'Autriche, the wife of Louis XIII. But what will be the cost of their efforts?Better than dog musketeers, but still only for those who don't know the plot.Overall Rating: 5/1060.Mister Ajikkoミスター味っ子 [1987-IV]Sunrise (Dropped 3/99)Tags:ShounenComedy, GourmetAjiyoshi Yoichi is a culinary prodigy who manages the eating house together with his mother. One day, Murata Genjiro appears in the eating house and is surprised at the delicious taste and delicate culinary skills of the katsu-don prepared by Youichi. Subsequently, Youichi is being invited to the Aji-oh Building in which he is involved in a spaghetti match with the in-house Italian chef, Marui. Youichi's novel culinary ideas, coupled with his enthusiasm of serving the best for his guests, allow him to defeat Marui in the match. From then on, Youichi begins to compete with other rivals in the race for the best tastes and dishes.Oh, so Shokugeki no Soma had such source. No torn clothes on tasting (but flying in space between planes on tasting), yet very similar otherwise. Of course there are less characters and side-plots here. I don't have a faintest desire to watch it to the end.Overall Rating: 5/1061.Kamen no Ninja Akakage仮面の忍者赤影 [1987-IV]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/23)Tags:Action, FantasyRed Shadow, created by Mitsuteru Yokoyama, is a ninja who wears a red-and-black costume and a stylized red mask. His adventures take place in Feudal Japan, and he and his ninja sidekicks Aokage and Shirokage fight evil warlords, wizards and daikaiju using modern high-tech gadgetry (a blatant oddity in a period setting).Only a few episodes are translated. Basically, Japanese version of Zorro with some magic or elements out of the setting used. Action is ok, but there's hardly anything besides that.Overall Rating: 5/1062.Bikkurimanビックリマン [1987-IV]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/75)Tags:Comedy, FantasyIn a world divided between angels and evil creatures, only the young hero Yamato Shintei has the power to defeat the demons...Not translated. It's a chibi parody on folk tales and probably even on Dragon Ball, as protagonist is a samurai kid, he has a female angel companion, pervy old man as companion, some shounen mage as companion and what not! Title is supposed to surprise/amaze, so it has bold moves, like cutting down lower half of ogre body and having upper half fly with the lower half away...Overall Rating: 6/1063.Tsuideni TonchinkanAnyway, It Doesn't Matter ついでにとんちんかん [1987-IV]Studio Comet(Dropped 3/43)Tags:Gag HumorComedyA gang decides to play at burglary without the knowledge of their schoolmates, each masquerading at different times as the master thief Tonchinkan.Not translated. Gag comedy where three pupils with some super skills dress as thieves and try to steal something, but their fourth accomplice is a kindergarten kid who always acts maximally irrationally showing naked ass everywhere, siding with enemies or just taking the hits in most hilarious forms. Might be a thing with translation.Overall Rating: 5/1064.Norakuro-kunのらくろクン [1987-IV]Pierrot (Dropped 3/50)Tags:Comedy, MysteryOctober, 1987, Autumn. In Suganami, Tokyo, there lives the Kinoshita family whereby the father draws very little pay out of his job as an ordinary salaryman. In order to cover expenses, he decides to let out the second floor of their apartment to earn additional rental income. One day, an obstinate-looking eldery dog, accompanied by a younger boy-dog, came knocking on their doors. The eldery dog addresses himself as Norayama Kuroyoshi and introduces his grandson as Norakuro. The former wants to open a detective agency and intends to rent the unit for their office. He will be the president of the investigative bureau while Norakuro-kun will be the director. He will also recruit one of the Kinoshita's sons, Keita-kun, as his employee and their advisor will be the girl-next-door, a high school student by the name of Rika Sawaguchi. On the third day since the official opening of the office, the telephone rang, a signal of a new case.Not translated. Kids stuff, only a bit more complex that Doraemon. And since Norakuro was an old anti-war series, it still holds some ties to military vehicles and stuff.Overall Rating: 5/1065.Manga Nihon Keizai Nyuumonマンガ日本経済入門 [1987-IV]Knack Productions (Dropped 1/25)Tags:SeinenEducational, HistoricalDrama, Slice of LifeDepiction of Japan's economy, based on Shoutarou Ishinomori's epynomous manga.Wow, someone translated first episode. Only cringe with some real life video cuts , as expected.Overall Rating: 2/1066.Devilman: Tanjou-henDevilman: The Birthデビルマン誕生編 [1987-IV]Oh! Production (Finished 1/1)Tags:MythologyHorror, Sci-Fi, SupernaturalAkira Fudou leads the life of a typical high school student. After a chance encounter with school bullies, he is rescued by his childhood friend Ryou Asuka. Ryou and Akira catch up over the course of an afternoon that ends with them crashing a party at a nightclub. Initially uncomfortable with the environment, Akira is shocked when violence provokes some of the club's partygoers to transform into demonic monsters. He and Ryou are only saved from the encounter thanks to the intervention of a great demon known as Amon. Amon possesses Akira, and the two together form the powerful Devilman⁠—a being that, due to the influence of Akira's strong empathy for his fellow man, is resolved to keep the human race safe from the threats of demonkind.It's true that first two prologue episodes of old devilman series were impressive, but they were not that good to have own remake, lol ! It's more advanced now, but still a secondary product that I can't rate high.Overall Rating: 5/1067.Junk Boyジャンクボーイ [1987-IV]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Romance, Ecchi23-year-old Ryohei Yamazaki has just one thing on his mind: sex. And with his sweet-talking, honey-voiced ways, Ryohei has no trouble finding interested ladies. But none of them is just what he wants... none of them is PERFECT. Then he charms the beautiful editor of a hot magazine into hiring him. Journalism will never be the same again...I've definitely seen worse, but it does not cancel the fact that there's no depth in this piece .Overall Rating: 5/1068.Battle Royal High School真魔神伝　バトルロイヤルハイスクール [1987-IV]D.A.S.T. (Finished 1/1)Tags:Martial Arts, Mythology, Super PowerAction, Horror, SupernaturalHyoudo Riki is just an ordinary guy who likes to wear a tiger mask while Kung-Fu fighting, which means he fits in real well at BATTLE ROYAL HIGH SCHOOL!Unfortunately for Riki, he's the doppleganger in our world of Byoudo, Master of the Dark Realm, and when a dimensional gate opens between the two worlds, the evil Fairy Master tricks Byoudo into making an attempt to conquer our beautiful, and better lit, world.Now poor Riki is semi-possessed by his opposite number, and the minions of the Fairy Master are mutating his classmates into hideous lustful monsters. To make matters worse, all the inter-dimensional commotion has attracted the attention of a sword-happy exorcist and the heroic Zankan of the Space-Time Police!Which all means that Riki is about to take one bitch of a mid-term. The course is survival, and forget "Pass/Fail". The test is graded "Live/Die".Action was quite ok for me. But there's nothing but action, so .Overall Rating: 6/1069.Dirty Pair OVAダーティペア (1987) [1987-IV]Sunrise(Finished 10/10)Tags:DetectiveAdventure, Comedy, Sci-FiSet in the future Kei and Yuri are Trouble Consultants for The 3WA. Code Named "Lovely Angels", but, they are known throughout the galaxy as The Dirty Pair. They always solve their case, but, not without causing collateral damage and mayhem.First half of episodes looked really bad for me as there was always mission given by 3WA without prologue, and mission got conducted without humor or conversations. In the second half of the episodes all those issues were adressed at least couple times each. In the end I feel that OVA episodes are on the same level as originals or worse. With the novelty inevitably lost with the second season, it's only 6 for me .Overall Rating: 6/1070.Metal Skin Panic MADOX-01メタルスキンパニックMADOX-01 [1987-IV]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiIn the first test of a revolutionary personal battle-suit, the MADOX-01, Ace female test-pilot Elle Kusomoto smashes an attacking tank force and humiliates Lt. Kilgore, Japan's most-macho tank-jockey, in the process.Kilgore swears he'll get even, and he gets his chance when the prototype MADOX literally falls off the back of a truck in the middle of Tokyo.Meanwhile, the MADOX, which fell off the back of one truck, off a bridge, and into the back of another truck, has found its way into the hands of college student Koji Sujimoto. Intruiged by the MADOX, Koji makes the big mistake of fooling with it without reading the manual first, and soon finds himself locked in the suit and zooming around downtown Tokyo.Just Action. Waste of time.Overall Rating: 3/1071.X Densha de IkouX電車で行こう [1987-IV]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:Avant Garde, Mystery, SupernaturalIshihara Toru is an everyday guy with an on-and-off girlfriend and a position working for a train buff. Things become complicated when a ghostly vehicle dubbed the X Train begins to ride the rails, destroying everything in its path. Somehow, it seems that Toru is connected with the X Train by a strange power, which draws the attention of some very dangerous and power hungry people who would wield it for their own...Dark monotonous horror with ugly faces and no real aim. I see zero merit in it. Appreciating it for being experimental and comparing it to FLCL is incompetence beyond understanding.Overall Rating: 4/1072.TO-Yトーイ [1987-IV]Gallop (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMusicDramaTwo weeks before a concert at Yaon Hibiya auditorium (1987.8.26), while playing at the club Shinjuku Loft, lead vocalist To-Y (pron: to-o-i) of the band GASP is jumped by a rival, Aikawa Yoji. GASP is a upcoming band known for its violence, struggling to be noticed against the popularity of hotshot Aikawa, who's #1 on the charts and beloved by his fans. The Yaon Hibiya concert represents GASP's mainstream debut to break out of the small-time club scene, which is threatened by the schemes of Aikawa's manager, Ms. Kato of Koyama Productions. Kato wants To-Y to leave that "bunch of hoodlums," and sing independently for a major label.Adding to the confusion is an unexplained character who manifests feline traits, named Niya. Niya presents herself as "To-Y's aijin" ("Niya, To-Y no aijin da yo!") to the consternation of Koishikawa Hiderou, who has interest in To-Y. Koishikawa, also known as "Sonoko-chan," is typed as a "okama" by Niya. A running motif is GASP, it's fans, and associates regarded as unusual by the mainstream public, as exemplified by their musical taste, dress, and Classic Coke-drinking, which only contributes to more difficulty in their struggle to be accepted.Some songs, some singers with ever sour faces and zero emotions, one tomboy full of emotions who constantly picks on singers. If it sounds enticing, go ahead, but I'm past the time I could enjoy aimless animation just for the mood.Overall Rating: 5/1073.Gall Force 2: Destructionガルフォース2 ディストラクション [1987-IV](Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Sci-FiMilitary, SpaceLufy, discovered floating lifeless in space, is brought on board a Solnoid cruiser and given another chance at life. Once the hardened warrior, she is shown events that shake her faith (one's own death seems to have a way of changing one's philosophy) and lessening her power as a fighter just as that power is most needed!First part had at least some drama and action, this one is pretty even and bland.Overall Rating: 5/1074.Hi no Tori: Uchuu-henThe Phoenix -Space-火の鳥　宇宙編 [1987-IV]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:SpaceDrama, Fantasy, Sci-FiIn deep space, four astronauts discover that their colleague Makimura has mysteriously died shortly following a cryptic note about his imminent murder. Though horrified by the news, the inoperable state of their spaceship leaves the crew no time to grieve, and they evacuate via escape pods. Determined to identify the culprit, the survivors begin to suspect fellow crewmate Kizaki, on account of a rivalry between himself and Makimura regarding the only female team member, Nana Ichinomiya. However, to their bewilderment, they notice Makimura's pod following them, yet failing to respond to attempts at contact.As the astronauts try to interpret their perplexing circumstances, they learn there are more inconceivable stories about their lost teammate, one involving the Phoenix, a mysterious bird said to have the ability to grant immortality. It is not until they crash into a seemingly deserted planet that the crew will finally uncover the sinister truth behind Makimura and his suspicious pod.Set in a distant future, Hi no Tori: Uchuu-hen illustrates the cruelty of human beings passionately in pursuit of their own desires without any regard to the consequences.Story itself is nice as usual, but it's story for story's sake, not integral piece. No good personalities to back it properly.Overall Rating: 6/1075.Daimajuu Gekitou: Hagane no Oni大魔獣激闘　鋼の鬼 [1987-IV]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaHorror, Sci-FiIn the year 1999, a team of UN scientists in an attempt to tap into a new energy resource on a deserted island called Sansara, unknownigly open a portal to another universe, unleashing dormant biomechanical entities. Three years later, Takuya Goroza returns to the island of Sansara urged by a mysterious request by college chum Haruka Alford. Little does he know, his old friend isn't what he appears to be...The whole film is a buildup for opening a portal followed by mecha battle. Not cool.Overall Rating: 5/1076.The Samuraiザ・サムライ [1987-IV]TBS(Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenSchoolComedy, RomanceSixteen-year-old high school student Takeshi Chimatsuri has devoted his life to being a master samurai like his father was. Then one day, the Toki twins, two ninja sisters he's known since childhood, transfer to his school and issue him a challenge to take back their family dagger from him. Unfortunately for him, they have discovered his one weakness: the fear of the naked female body. Now, Takeshi must undergo special training from his classmates Atsuko and Torai, and his teacher Miss Ayatsugi to resist the combined brute strength of Akari and the temptation of her sex-crazed twin Kagiri. Class will never be in order with these three constantly fighting each other.It could be funnier and have some kind of ending. But it did not. It will be forgotten in a day.Overall Rating: 5/1077.Makyou Gaiden Le DeusLadius魔境外伝レ・ディウス [1987-IV]Production Reed (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAction, Adventure, Sci-FiIn a post-apocalyptic world, the treasure hunter Riot and his pretty sidekicks are searching for Eyes of Zalem, which they hope will guide them to Rido, the treasure of a long-lost Quall civilization. A limitless energy source, the Rido has the power to even restore life; but unfortunately for Riot, the evil Demsters are after it too.An absolutely unmemorable adventure that turns into same unremarkable mecha by the end.Overall Rating: 4/1078.Relic Armor Legaciamレリック・アーマーレガシアム [1987-IV]Kadokawa Shoten (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAction, Sci-FiThe planet Libertia was once known as “the planet of death”, until humanity built three giant mirrors and created what seemed like an ideal land. It is on this planet that Professor Grace and his granddaughter Alcia live peacefully… until their home is attacked by Guild soldiers looking for the professor and for Legaciam – a special Armor that can resist extreme heat, allowing it to go to areas where humans would not survive normally. Alcia, who was at the time piloting Legaciam in order to help her grandfather with the testing, manages to get away… barely. But the Guild is determined to get Legaciam by any means necessary…Setting is portrayed vividly, so it's a bit better than usual mecha. Not much due to other elements failure.Overall Rating: 5/1079.Good Morning Altheaグッドモーニング・アルテア [1987-IV](Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, SpaceAction, Sci-FiThe story revolves around Nikolai, apparently a part-cyborg; Galory, a young boy who apparently is part human/part Crest person, and Althea, who is entirely a Crest person. Seems the Earth and the Crest people were at war for 300 years so there's still a lot of bad feelings present.The ship Galory, Nikolai and others are on is ambushed and almost everyone killed by some kind of automated attack ships from a huge Crest ship that has been taken over by an automaton.Galory, Nikolai and Althea go to the ship to try and see if there are any survivors of an advanced party from Galory's ship that can be saved, and to see if they can destroy the Type 38 automaton in the ship's core.Another variation of evil hiding in an abandoned space ship. Not sure I can call anything good out of it all .Overall Rating: 4/1080.Flying Luna Clipperフライング・ルナクリッパー [1987-IV](Finished 1/1)Tags:Music, Parody, PsychologicalAvant Garde, Comedy, EcchiA trip on a chartered plane with a number of other thrill-seekers (most of whom are anthropomorphic fruits and vegetables) and hop from island to island, each of which offer their own unique visual delights.Anime is done in the form of pixelated DOS game... that'd actually be enough unless I wanted to sample ecchi of the vegetable people... I wish I did not. It's not even done by any professional company. It's not anime. The end .Overall Rating: 2/1081.Scoopersスクーパーズ [1987-IV]ACC Production (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Sci-FiIt's 2016 and Shambhala city reporter Yoko and her android boyfriend/bodyguard/cameraman Vito are hunting the enigmatic criminal Mr. X. Their search leads them to the Rainbow Tower, were Yoko is taken hostage and Vito must battle to save her by destroying the program of the Tower's central computer to prevent X's escape.Reporter stack her nose everywhere and got attacked often, but was saved by her cyborg companion. They they got separated. Then they got reunited and reported got saved again. The end.Overall Rating: 4/1082.Kentauros no DensetsuThe Legend of Kentauros ケンタウロスの伝説 [1987-IV]Wako Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, DramaThe Centaurs are a racing team of 93 bikers from the port city of Yokohama who are named after the legendary Greek horsemen. Arthur and Ken fall for the same lady deciding to settle their competition with a race.You know how I like serious racing. Not. For some reason showing real brands on bikes is considered ok in the 80s. There is numerous times Yamaha is shown on bikes and uniform which makes me think it's one big Yamaha ad to settle things with threee previous Honda movies. But why in the anime, damn it?Overall Rating: 5/1083.Taiman Blues: Shimizu Naoto-henたいまんぶるうす清水直人編 [1987-IV](Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenDelinquentsA tale of rivalry between two gangs, MND and Laku, and the personal vendetta between MND's Naoto and Laku's Yota.Serious biker gang wars anime. Not without flashing HONDA on the bikes ofc. Lots of simplifications and stupidity, as expected.Overall Rating: 5/1084.Boku no Oldies wa All Color僕のオールディーズはオールカラー [1987-IV](Dropped 0/1)Tags:SeinenMusicRomanceA minimalist adaptation of Seizo Watase's manga of the same name. It contains 5 stories of slow paced vignettes of romance whose only dialogue lies within the "oldies" being played as background music.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1085.Lupin III: Fuuma Ichizoku no InbouLupin III: The Fuma Conspiracy ルパン三世　風魔一族の陰謀 [1987-IV]Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAdult CastAction, Adventure, Comedy, MysteryGoemon's wedding to Murasaki Inabe, daughter of a samurai clan's leader, is interrupted when the Fuma ninjas attack, kidnapping the bride-to-be and demanding her family's ancient treasure as ransom. Lupin, Jigen, Goemon and Fujiko work together once again to try to save Murasaki and get to the treasure before the Fuma can steal it.Probably the best Lupin III I've seen so far. A bit of everything - chases , dungeon with traps, kidnapping, local corruption, treasure. Still could not enjoy it.Overall Rating: 5/1086.Genji Monogatari源氏物語 [1987-IV]Group TAC (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDrama, RomanceAt the height of the Heian period, Hikaru Genji—the illegitimate son of the emperor—leads a life of luxury as a government official. He spends his time at court sipping tea, dancing, and coming up with elegant excuses to visit his somewhat scandalous lovers. With such a complicated life, it is only a matter of time before this amorous man's affairs spiral out of control.Boring like hell. Only ok if you can tolerate one and a half hour of emotionless talks about neutral things like succession, retainer, favorites or music.Overall Rating: 3/1087.Gokiburi-tachi no TasogareTwilight of the Cockroachesゴキブリたちの黄昏 [1987-IV]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:Anthropomorphic, MilitaryDramaHybrid film with animated cockroaches interacting with live-action actors.In a trashy bachelor pad lived a colony of roaches who were able to roam freely for food or for games. Because of the homeowner being gentle with the roaches, they have no fear of traps, spray, or being stepped on. However when the homeowner starts bringing over a woman over, life starts to change for the roaches who are already living an easy life.What the hell? I was close to throwing up. There should be no toying with cockroachcide.Overall Rating: 1/1088.Shouri Toushu勝利投手 [1987-IV]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Team SportsBaseball coach Hoshiyama offers a chance to turn professional to Katsumi Kunimasa, a star member of the student squad that won the summer tournament. The young girl becomes a star pitcher for the Chunchi Dragons (conveniently, the team her father owns), and, after a year of triumphs, she leads them to victory in the national championships at the legendary Koshien Stadium. Based on the manga by Noriko Umeda, this anime may be compared to the other girl-playing baseball story "Song of the Baseball Enthusiasts".The Dragons team members are all based on the real-life team, though their opponents are fictional. At the time, the real-life Hoshiyama was a commentator, but fact was eventually true to fiction and he became the manager for the real-life Dragons.Not translated. I'm not sure why I keep watching baseball spokons with zero chance for me to like it. Girl in baseball was already covered in Yakyuukyou no Uta, but both are much better than average baseball spokons. It is so mostly because scenes from everyday life addition. Anyway, not great, but watchable.Overall Rating: 5/1089.Hitomi no Naka no Shounen: Juugo Shounen HyouryuukiThe Story of Fifteen Boys瞳のなかの少年　十五少年漂流記 [1987-IV]Nippon Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAdventureA two-week summer vacation has turned out to be a long struggle for survival.The Story of 15 Boys is based on "Deux Ans de Vacances," a unique masterpiece and the only novel that Jules Verne wrote especially for children. Now this story has been animated through the use of leading-edge techniques.A drifting sailboat carrying 15 boys is overtaken by a storm and cast ashore on a desert island, where the fifteen boys begin their struggle. Their tough days-full of danger, thrills and fear-drive the boys to distress at times, but also shape them into strong independent people.The boys' extraordinary experiences on the island will bring to all young viewers the excitement that they always dream of experiencing themselves.But there has already been older animation on the same book, just about a third was taken by voyage and gathering there. This time arrival takes mere minutes to give more time for "adventures" - super boring ones at that since target audience is kids.Overall Rating: 4/1090.Saint Elmo: Hikari no RaihoushaSaint Elmo: Apostle of Lightセントエルモ・光の来訪者 [1987-IV]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Sci-FiInside Mercury, Japan builds a large-sized solar space power plant. The plant supports Earth with its large solar energy supply but suddenly there is an abnormality at the Saint Elmo plant. To pinpoint the problem, Earth sends several technicians to fix it.Not translated. Technicians fix the problem. Good for them, but why should I watch it really?Overall Rating: 5/10

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Anime of the Year 1960s - Taiyou no Ouji: Horus no Daibouken

By kivandopulus, May 4, 2022

Anime of the Year

Since I don't like to make separate posts for small things , here are principles that anime list is based on - no anime for kids, no hentai, no anime with episodes under 10 minutes, no OVA that are recaps of series episodes or with length under 30 minutes, no boys love, no non-Japanese language anime.As for anime of the 1960s,Taiyou no Ouji: Horus no Daiboukenis the only masterpiece for me in this period.1.Tetsuwan AtomAstro Boy鉄腕アトム [1961-I]Mushi Production (Dropped 4/193)Tags: Shounen Mecha Action, Adventure, Drama, Sci-FiIn the year 2003, Professor Tenma is distraught when his son Tobio is killed in a car accident. He loses himself in his latest project, creating Atom, a robot boy programmed to be forever good.Upset that his Tobio-substitute can never grow up, Tenma sells Atom to Ham Egg, the cruel ringmaster of a robot circus. Atom meets the kindly Professor Ochanomizu, who adopts him, inspires him to become a crusader against evil, and eventually builds him a robot "sister," Uran.The first Japanese anime TV-series I was able to find not for kids, so for me this is the year anime begins. A classic superhero story with the exception that protagonist is a robot kid . Robot nature is introduced here to explain superpower , but primarily to be the basis for humor. Protagonist is the only recurring figure (even "sister" Uran gets forgotten instantly) and he behaves in an absolutely predictable way. Episode 1 is introduction and retelling of synopsis. Episode 2 is a more or less typical battle with a just introduced robot villain. But episode 3 surprises as the concept does not just repeat - instead we're presented a rocket journey to Mars with fighting invader aliens becoming only a side dish, and discovering story behind the first expedition and finding survivors the main one. Episode 4 surprisesagain as astro boy regains consciousness alone in a desert and is rescued by bandit Ali-Baba to help him in treasure hunt and by coincidence unseals a conspiracy.Humor and story novelty in each episode fascinate and entertain enough to go on if you literally have nothing better to do. But without bright characters and fascinating story it can hardly offer much to contemporary watcher.Overall Rating: 3/102.Tetsujin 28-gou Gigantor鉄人２８号 [1963-IV]Eiken (Dropped 5/96)Tags : Shounen Mecha Adventure, Sci-FiDr.Haneda was developing experimental giant robot warriors to fight the allies during the Second World War, but before his creations could see action, Allied bombs destroyed the facility and killed him. A decade later criminals discovered two of the surviving prototypes, #26 and 27 in the series, and used the remote controlled robots to commit a number of crimes. Young Shotaro Haneda, the twelve year old son of Dr.Haneda, did some investigating and discovered that the mob were hunting for the twenty-eighth robot in the series, rumoured to be the most powerful of them all. Racing the villains, Shotaro discovers the robot first, along with Dr.Shikashima, a colleague of his father's who was also believed killed by the Allied bombing. Together the two prevent Tetusjin-28 (the robot's official designation) from falling into the hands of the bad guys, and decide to dedicate him to peace rather than war.Shotaro fought crime for a long time, supported by Dr.Shikashima, who would repair Tetsujin-28 when he was damaged, and by police officer Otsuka. Shotaro even battled the alien Magmans, invaders from the planet Magma, who came to Earth late in his career, bringing their own giant robots, Magma X and Gold Wolf, with them.Another classic title for the shounen mecha genre, although robot is only some 5+ meters high and is controlled with a controller rather than from inside. Complex synopsis covers as many as first two episodes and also finishes with the gang arc. Episode 3 starts an alien invasion arc with spy confrontation with episode 4 being the invasion itself and episode 5 a comeback of the alien spy robot. Compared to Astro Boy there's no humor in here apart of some graphical choices . Action , story and arcs are in the center here, and episodes finish with either a hook and to be continued or with a preview of next episode to keep the interest running. This integrity and glue add some points, but I still see zero reasons why it can be watched nowadays.Overall Rating: 3/103.Eightman8 Manエイトマン [1961-IV]Nippon Animation(Dropped 3/56)Tags:MechaAction, Drama, Sci-FiA private investigator working a routine case involving stolen technology is mortally wounded. His only hope for survival comes from sacrificing his humanity to become 8Man—a powerful cyborg crime-fighter enhanced with a living human brain. Resurrected as the ultimate high-tech vigilante, it is up to 8Man to bring the lawless to justice and put an end to the escalating cycle of violence. A classic animated thriller that will leave you breathless.A normal superman story. Watchable , but I've never had interest in superhero stories. I see this work not as anime, but as a conventional American cartoon as it has West-imitating animation, mature protagonist and simplistic narrative. Each episode presents a separate detective/villain story. Can't think of anything even more primitive as that, so the scores are the bottom line as well.Overall Rating: 1/104.Wan Wan ChuushinguraDoggie Marchわんわん忠臣蔵 [1963-IV] Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:AnthropomorphicAction, Adventure, Drama, FantasyThe homeless dog Rock swears to take to revenge on a tiger named Killer in the zoo, who had killed his mother. The dogs in town, troubled by the atrocities of Killer, join forces to support Rock. Changing the target of revenge to the murderer of the main character's mother made it easier for kids to empathize with the character.A child OVA imitating Disney cartoons, notably Lion King. I see it as a technology demo rather than a serious story. Compared to the TV series from the the same year animation is godly, but it should rather be compared with Wester OVA. In this regard it's totally ok for children and on par with Disney, I'd actually rate Disney the same, just don't like watching it as an adult.Overall Rating: 3/105.0-sen Hayato0戦はやと [1964-I] P Productions (Dropped 1/38)Tags:Historical, MilitaryThe adventures of a zero fighter pilot during World War II.Given that there's no translation, there aren't English reviews either. Anime is about 35 excellent pilots gathered in one unrivaled corps by a great commander. It has enough depth because pilots come from different Japanese clans, even rivaling ones . There are also a lot of historical and geographical allusions. Finally, good use of action and tactics. Still, can't see the point in this anime nowadays without full focus on characters.Overall Rating: 2/106.Big XビッグX [1964-II]Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Dropped 3/59)Tags:ShounenHistoricalAction, Sci-FiInvited to Nazi Germany during World War II, Dr. Asagumo is asked by Hitler to collaborate with him on the research of the new weapon "Big X". Concerned about the possible effects of the completion of Big X, Dr. Asagumo intentionally delays the progress of the research, conspiring with his co-researcher, the devious Dr. Engel. Immediately before Germany is defeated by the Allies, Dr. Asagumo implants a card inscribed with the secret of Big X in his son, Shigeru, and is then shot to death by the German army. Twenty years later, the card is discovered in the body of Shigeru, who is then living in Tokyo. Soon, an organization claiming alliance with the Nazis appears, steals the card, and completes the Big X project. Dr. Engel's grandson has joined the Nazi Alliance. The completed Big X is then revealed to be a drug that can expand the human body without limitation. Recovering Big X from the enemy, Shigeru's son Akira fearlessly challenges the Nazi Alliance and Hans Engel, who are plotting to conquer the world.Another variation of superman, this time wonder waffle variant. Quite similar to predecessors, especially, Tetsujin 28-gou as genius child travels with professor and some allies with superpower activating only in the dire moments. Episode 1 contains the synopsis events, further episodes are of episodic nature. There's some mild humor. I see little sense in all this to watch it now.Overall Rating: 2/107.Shounen Ninja Kaze no FujimaruSamurai Kid少年忍者風のフジ丸 [1964-III]Toei Animation (Dropped 1/65)Tags:ShounenSamuraiAction, AdventureKidnapped and rescued by a Ninja, Fujimaru has mastered martial arts over the years. Now he sets off on a journey to find his mother and also locate an old tome containing secret martial arts techniques.First samurai series, but already quite advanced as there are nice talks between several main characters, though nothing really special. Anyway, never understood shounens.Overall Rating: 3/108.Uchuu Patrol HopperSpace Patrol Hopper宇宙パトロールホッパ [1965-I]Toei Animation (Dumped 1/44)Tags:SpaceSci-FiAfter an alien attack, a boy named Jun is rescued by aliens who give him super powers and recruit him into the Space Patrol. The series was renamed Patrol Hopper Uchukko Jun for the final 18 episodes.A shounen replaced to an alien planet full of aliens. Aliens have saved Jun and taught him superpowers. Change of place is to a great benefit here, as aliens are depicted as very funny and all those banal professors/policemen/criminals are repeated almost everywhere and don't fascinate. Altogether same episodic adventures, just in a different environment.Overall Rating: 3/109.Mirai Kara Kita Shounen Super Jetter未来から来た少年スーパージェッター [1965-I]TBS, TCJ (Dumped 3/52)Tags:Super PowerAction, Comedy, Sci-FiA time patroller from the 30th century goes back to the 20th century to stop a meteor from destroying the world.Again superpower, but both protagonist and villains now come from future. Protagonist is not much different from everyone else despite coming from 30th century - his gadgets stop-watch and flying car mostly serve as superpowers. What really stands out in this anime is a carefree journalist girl becoming protagonist's partner. Her reactions and talks make the bulk of the humor scenes and liven up the atmosphere a lot.Overall Rating: 4/1010.Gulliver no Uchuu Ryokouガリバーの宇宙旅行 [1965-I]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Ted meets the aged professor Gulliver in a deep, dark forest. Accompanied by Mack the dog, a toy soldier called The General, and the Crow, the two set off on a journey to the Planet of Blue Hope in their spaceship the Gulliver.Finally we got some crazy stuff going on. Talking toy soldier warns an unlucky homeless boy about a rushing car, so thy and a thrown away dog just start going randomly and do random stuff like run away from the attraction park guards and fly together on a harpoon launched from a cannon getting in the dark forest where synopsis finally catches up. Several times environment just became a solid color with our heroes trapped inside changing geometrical figures, really weird. And it's also a musical as there are four big songs and several more small ones (often with that crazy transformation animation) . Talking dog is here for most humor moments while toy soldier for lots of grudging. All these elements make the OVA entertaining during the whole course and random space adventures are always nice, but still can't recommend it without some real substance or sense or exceptional characters in all those adventures.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Uchuu AceSpace Ace宇宙エース [1965-II]Tatsunoko Production (Dumped 3/52)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiDr. Tatsunoko of Tatsunoko Research Center goes undersea accompanied by his daughter Asari to inquire into some mysterious radiation and discovers there a giant shell and it is known that the radiation comes from a globe laid inside the shell. Then Asari finds an object in the shape of compact with a message in it. It says that a space alien from the Planet of Parlum which is on the verge of extinction is lying in the globe. Suddenly a boy with a strange look appears out of the globe and goes wild. He is the very person mentioned in the message with the name of Ace. His source of energy for superhuman power is what is called space food and he can fly with the help of Silver Ring made with energy collected instantly in the aerial environment. Also he is able to use it as a weapon to fight the enemy with. Supported by his friends including Asari, Ibo the robot dog, and Hermit Crab Reporter, he gallantly goes into action to settle various difficulties caused by mystic robots and brutal space invaders.New space-themed superhero protects the Earth against invaders of all sorts. Feels very much like Mirai Kara Kita Shounen Super Jetter, just with younger protagonist and cute chibi girl partner Asari.Overall Rating: 4/1012.Uchuu Shounen Soran宇宙少年ソラン [1965-II]Eiken (Dumped 3/96)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiA classic sci-fi TV anime. The adventures of super-boy. In the 21st century, a human boy is raised on the Planet Soran, home of one of the most advanced civilization in the Galactic Federaion. The planet has the gravity 15 times stronger than Earth. People of Soran changed the boy into a cyborg so that he can live on the planet. Years later the boy returns to Earth. He calls himself Soran. On Earth, his phsical ability is 15 times superior to normal humans. He uses the power for justice.A classic in this regard means return to the sources, notably Tetsuwan Atom, but in an upgraded variant - with a talking squirrel partner. Feels like a step back for me without a proper female partner and even a sight of doubt in any actions.Overall Rating: 3/1013.Wonder 3The Amazing 3ワンダー３ [1965-III]Mushi Production (Dropped 4/52)Tags:Action, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-FiWonder 3 is an Osamu Tezuka manga and a black and white anime series. It involved the adventures of three agents from outer space who were sent to Earth to determine whether the planet, a potential threat to the universe, should be destroyed. The instrument of destruction is a device resembling a large black ball with two antennae that is variously called an anti-proton bomb, a solar bomb, and a neutron bomb. Although the three agents (Captain Bokko, Nokko, and Pukko) are originally humanoid in appearance, upon arrival on Earth they take on the appearances of a rabbit (Bokko), a horse (Nokko), and a duck (Pukko) that they had captured as examples of Earth life forms. While on Earth they travel in a tire-shaped vehicle capable of enormous speeds called the Big Wheel, which can travel on both land and water (and, with modifications, through the air).Despite Wonder 3 is mixing the same elements of superpowers, aliens and boy protagonist, it becomes the best TV-series up to this moment. The reason is that it bakes all elements really well. For the first time protagonist is a very ordinary boy without any outstanding abilities. But there are three alien companions turned into animals playing the role of a simpleton, a grump and a flirting female. There's also protagonist's older brother who is a proper cool spy and always falls into trouble. Finally, political situation is unstable with conflict stirring among two nations. It results in military and spies around. This way there's a lot more opportunities for all kinds of events and humor. I have to take one a single score point just because it has English subtitles for only five episodes, but I seriously believe that it's the peak of adventure comedy with superpowers theme presented in most old anime. Setting is saturated horizontally with characters and conditions very well. To get higher scores from me anime should dig deeper.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Yuusei Shounen PapiiPrince Planet [1965-III]遊星少年パピイ Eiken (Dumped 3/52)Tags:Space, Super PowerAction, Sci-FiTells the story of a member of the Universal Peace Corps from the Planet Radion coming to Earth on a mission to determine if this world meets standards for membership in the Galactic Union of Worlds and assist its inhabitants during his stay. While on his mission Prince Planet adopts the identity of an Earth boy named Bobby and gains comrades who work together alongside him combating evil forces both alien and terrestrial.Eiken is making the third similar looking anime in a row (and simultaneously running) without trying to improve structure-wise. This time there is a girl partner instead of a talking squirrel... but she does not have a significant function with a self-confident superboy. Eiken just does not learn.Overall Rating: 3/1015.Obake no Q-tarouオバケのＱ太郎 [1965-III]Shin-Ei Animation (Dumped 1/96)Tags:SchoolComedy, Slice of Life, SupernaturalQ-taro, a monster, is living with the Ohara family. He can fly and make his body transparent, but he cannot turn his body into other things like other monsters do. He is a scattered mind, and he always makes mistakes and causes trouble.Old Japanese slice-of-life anime comedies are the best. Now I understand where Maruko-chan came from. Sadly, there's just one episode with English subs and some 10 more raw ones around. Maybe there's more luck with remakeOverall Rating: 6/1016.Osomatsu-kunおそ松くん [1966-I]Studio Zero(Dumped 3/96)Tags:ComedyA wacky comedy about identical sextuplets causing wild pranks. Each episode features 2 stories.Again only three episodes with English subs and again much hope on the remake. Has truly great findings and individual style in many senses. Zero synopsis means full freedom, and this series uses it fully.Overall Rating: 6/1017.Tatakae! Osper戦え! オスパー [1966-I] Nihon Hoso Eigasha(Dumped 0/52)Tags:ShounenAction, Sci-FiOn a distant world, people with paranormal powers battle each other.Seems to be lost media, but I doubt I'd evaluate Esper battles highly.Overall Rating: 0/1018.Rainbow Sentai Robinレインボー戦隊ロビン [1966-II]Toei Animation(Dumped 3/48)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiA squadron of robots defends the planet against alien invaders.Now this is something unexpected. We've got four normal size sentai rangers - protagonist, shooter, bruiser, medic - plus two chibi characters - radar fox and professor. There are as many as two female characters - medic and radar fox. But anime is called after protagonist Robin - basically, he's the usual self-confident superstrong protagonist. Allies provide some support sometimes or get captured. It's much more advanced than western power rangers, but it's same fighting with different alien invaders each episode, so rather boring overall.Overall Rating: 4/1019.Kaizoku Ouji海賊王子[1966-II]Toei Animation(Dumped 3/31)Tags:ShounenAdventureKid was brought up on a small island which floats on the Carribean Sea. He lives a pleasant life with many animals as his companions. However, this changes when he learns that his dying father is not his real father. Before he passes away, his foster father reveals to Kid that his real father is actually Captain Morgan, the pirate who rules the seven seas.Kid decides to set off in search of his real father, only to learn about his death. Other pirates began to hunger for the title of ruler, one of them being the notorious pirate Tiger Hook. In order to protect the seas, Kid became the pirate king of his father's ship.Protagonist is basically Peter Pan in the jungle. He has talking animal friends and in the first episode saves a girl captive and her granddad from the pirates. Our team plus pirate ship staff starts to sail on a ship, and pirate captain opposes them on another ship. They clash at different islands and ports with the pirate captain , other new pirates and native tribes. It's a colorful bunch, though the bulk of humor still goes on pirate captain and his pet. That's an almost ready concept for One Piece, no matter how you look at it. I don't favor adventure shounens.Overall Rating: 5/1020.Harisu no Kazeハリスの旋風[1966-II]P Productions(Dumped 0/70)Tags:SchoolComedyA boy known as a troublemaker transfers into a new school.Looks like a piece of lost media again as nowhere to be foundOverall Rating: 0/1021.Yuusei Kamen遊星仮面 [1966-III]Eiken (Dropped 4/39)Tags: Sci-FiDonning a special mask, a young man defends the planet.It's Eiken, so low-quality drawing and structure again with an unstoppable superhero. This time all those blinking horizontal lines used in drawing really make eyes hurt. And there's no kind of partner. Just awful.Overall Rating: 1/1022.Cyborg 009サイボーグ009 [1966-III]Toei Animation(Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Adventure, Drama, Sci-FiOriginal Cyborg 009 1966 movie based on the manga. Features 009's origin and an epic battle against Black Ghost and their evil robot forces.A good full-scale action movie with some humor. There's a whole bunch of colorful allies. To get some serious scores just action and some humor is not enough.Overall Rating: 5/1023.Jungle Taitei Movieジャングル大帝劇場版[1966-III]Mushi Production(Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAdventureThe first 2 minutes of this film are taken from the Jungle Emperor Leo (1965) TV series, while the rest is all original. Tezuka was very pleased that this film conveyed his story accurately, something he wasn't able to do with the TV series.It's mostly a recap of tv series for kids run the year before. A bit of everything - flashbacks, small conflict, overcoming difficulties coming from nature. learning from that and creating a restaurant on a safe land patch, dealing with a new threat. In movie form it still remains a title for kids.Overall Rating: 4/1024.Jungle Taitei: Susume Leo!ジャングル大帝・進めレオ [1966-IV]Mushi Production (Dropped 3/26)Jungle Emperor was such a hit in Japan, that Dr. Tezuka went ahead and produced a sequel in 1966, known in Japan as "The New Jungle Emperor" or "Onward, Leo!" The trouble (for us in the rest of the world) was that he made the series without having a deal with NBC, and he made it more like his original manga story, which means that there were a lot of characters that died and some of the episodes could be depressing. NBC thought that there was no way they could sell that kind of show, and they were quite happy with the 52 episodes they had, so the New Jungle Emperor series wasn`t seen in this country until 1984, when it was given the title Leo The Lion.This series was supposed to take place a few years after the original Kimba series. Kimba was an adult, with Kitty as his mate, and they had two cubs. Most of all this series was the story of Rune, the male cub, as he grew and learned to be as strong as his father.Basically, Jungle Taitei for shounen instead of kids. Quite a lot of violence and depressive scenes. And that's long before Harry Potter! There is some humor, but anime still lacks a strong memorable cast of companions and remains decent at best.Overall Rating: 5/1025.Mahoutsukai SallySally the Witch 魔法使いサリー [1967-I]Toei Animation(Dropped 4/109)Tags: ShoujoSchoolFantasySally, the kind but mischievous princess of the Land of Magic, has developed an interest in the human world. Wanting to experience it for herself, she runs away and meets two girls her age—Yoshiko "Yocchan" Hanamura and Sumire Kasugano—at a department store. They quickly become friends and spend time at Sally's mansion, which she conjured with magic.The two girls realize they forgot something at the store, and despite it having closed for the night, they leave to fetch the item. Sally and her younger brother Cub, who had been sent by their parents to retrieve her, follow them and discover that they have been captured by a pair of thieves who were attempting to rob the store. Utilizing their magic, Sally and Cub drive the thieves away and rescue the girls, who remain unaware of Sally's powers.Attached to her new friends and the fun of the human world, Sally decides to stay, taking up the surname Yumeno and attending school with Yocchan and Sumire. Cub chooses to live with her and together they make a variety of new friends and go on various adventures, all the while spicing up their lives with magic.So Sally is originator of all magical girls and shoujo as a genre. I'm not target audience, but this first shoujo is so well done. One polite and one mischievous girl as friends make great companions. There's no moving around, so the same neighborhood becomes the stage. And the Japanese excel at slice-of-life comedy. There are all kinds of pranksters around, but younger brother and magic-wielder Cub is the kind of them - because of magic. Despite girl protagonist, it's just a great slice comedy, a lot like Obake no Q-tarou in nature. And triplets feel a lot like octets from Osamatsu-kun. I'd gladly universally recommend it if it had all episodes translated and not just 14.Overall Rating: 6/1026.Gokuu no DaiboukenAdventures of the Monkey King悟空の大冒険 [1967-I]Mushi Production(Dropped 3/39)Tags:Comedy, FantasyIn this film, because of complaints from children that Goku is depicted as too much of an eager student, he is instead portrayed as a very naughty modern boy. It then received so many complaints from the PTA about its bad language that it was forced out of the show after all.Manga source is a rather crazy retelling of Chinese mythology, and there's no English translation for anime, so let me try to give some plot info. Monkeys wanted to appoint a king among themselves and went to emperor's court , but their gifts were expropriated and they were overwhelmed with the help of magician council and thrown to prison. In prison protagonist monkey Goku hears a fey singing and asks her help. After a long chase fey agrees to help, and together they win a magic battle over the councilor, rescue monkey comrades and occupy the palace. At episode 2 Goku is invited to some kind of Heavens Olympus where he is ridiculed , so he makes a huge ruckus and destruction there. Then heavenly warriors attack monkeys at their palace. But after fey is dragged by her granddad away, defenses break and monkeys are defeated except for Goku who escapes. In the end of the episode Goku crashes against some greater God, acts in a rude way and gets trapped on top of the mountain. In episode 3 first fey then monkeys on bulldozers try to rescue their king in vain , but in the process awaken some other God on some mountain. Only some captured king's prayer makes the stone jaws open . Then the awakened God from the mountain starts to attack the palace and capture the fey and all the monkeys, except for Goku. The monkey king again frees his comrades and defeats the invader. As you see, story is non-trivial and rather fun. Could it be a masterpiece if it was translated? I'm not sure.Overall Rating: 5/1027.Cyborg 009: Kaijuu SensouCyborg 009 and the Monster Warsサイボーグ００９怪獣戦争 [1967-I]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiThe evil organization 'Black Ghost' attacked around the world, using dinosaur (plesiosaur) type giant robots, and the team of 9 cyborgs launched their quest for the Black Ghost's hideout. 009 meets a girl named HelenThis OVA is actually way better. More exposition, more humor and less action. Again, I'm not sure this series can grow up to a masterpiece score, but we'll see.Overall Rating: 6/1028.Ninja Bugei-chouManual of Ninja Martial Arts忍者武芸帳 [1967-I] (Finished 1/1)Tags:ActionAlso known as Manual of Ninja Martial Arts, the only animation from Japanese New Wave maestro Nagisa Oshima is as provocative as one would expect from such a remarkable filmmaker. The film follows Sanpei Shirato's classic comic story about the son of an assassinated feudal lord in the Muromachi period, who attempts to avenge his father's death and meets Kagemaru, a renegade ninja helping peasants and farmers rebel against Oda Nobunaga's regime.It's actually a fast paced manga with a sound over it. It's actually more difficult to read than manga, because you have no control over anything and because zoomed small pictures constantly unrealistically occupy the whole screen as if director gone mad. Of course a lot of strips like character figures are repeating. I would not recommend it even to those who appreciate bloody samurai revenge stories. Reading Ninja Martial Arts Handbook by Sanpei Shirato as manga would be more enjoyable.Overall Rating: 3/1029.Shounen Jack to MahoutsukaiYoung Jack and the Witch 少年ジャックと魔法使い [1967-I]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, FantasyJack is a boy who lives with his animal friends Barnaby Bear, Dinah Dog, Squeeker Mouse and Phineas Fox. He's challenged to a race with Allegra, who turns out to be a witch. She takes Jack to the queen witch, Auriana. She plans on turning all her slaves into evil harpies.This work is done in the spirit of Gulliver space journey graphically, plus, it's also partially a musical. It's also about a journey of a boy with talking animals. There are also unrealistic locations and transformations, although to a lesser extent. Slowpoke bear is now the centerpiece for humor, but as a rule it's hardly funny. Two dogs have next to zero function. Protagonist also loses to his counterpart. The absence of an adult allows more action, running and fighting scenes, but can't call it a plus. It may be done on a somewhat higher level than Gulliver, but it won't stay in memory for long, so the same score.Overall Rating: 5/1030.Hong Kil-dong홍길동[1967-I](Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalAdventure, FantasyA special boy is born on a day when hurricanes and wicked spirits struck medieval Korea. The citizens and family learn that the infant has super human strength and cunning intelligence. As the boy grows up, he makes a vow to his family, the emperor of Korea, and to the high deities to rid Korea of the chaos and disorder caused by the wicked beings.Animation is in Korean and retells a national legend opposing clearly corrupted people in some town. Movie is drawn hand-craftily, so animation surprises in a lot of ways. It's still mostly of national importance.Overall Rating: 4/1031.Subarashii Sekai Ryokou: Alaska no Tabi "Daigo Hyougaki"すばらしい世界旅行　アラスカの旅“第五氷河期”Wonderful World Travel: Alaskan Journey: Fifth Ice Age [1967-I] Nippon Television Network(Dropped 0/2)Tags:Adventure, Sci-FiAnother piece of lost media. Again, doubt anything good can come from two episodes of journey to Alaska. Moving along.Overall Rating: 0/1032.Mach GoGoGoSpeed RacerマッハＧｏＧｏＧｏ [1967-II]Tatsunoko Production(Dropped 3/52)Tags:ShounenRacingAdventureThe Mach 5 is one of the fastest and most technologically advanced race cars built by man. Equipped with various gadgets and a powerful engine, it provides a challenge for anyone who would dare race against it. The driver of this amazing vehicle is Gou Mifune, a teenager who dreams of breaking into the world of professional racing.In spite of this, Gou's father and the creator of the Mach 5, Daisuke Mifune, does not want his son anywhere near a racetrack. Undeterred, his girlfriend Michi, younger brother Kurio, and Kurio's monkey sidekick Sanpei become Gou's biggest fans as he sets out to become the greatest racer of all time.However, Gou soon learns that becoming a professional racer is not easy. From the underhanded plots of corrupt businessmen to stiff competition in the form of his rival, Racer X, Gou faces many obstacles on the road ahead, and has a lot to prove before he can cross the finish line.It's a rather simple anime for children, so I don't even know what to discuss here. At least side characters can be fun sometimes.Overall Rating: 3/1033.Ribbon no KishiPrincess Knightリボンの騎士[1967-II]Mushi Production(Dropped 3/52)Tags:ShoujoCrossdressingAction, Fantasy, Mystery, RomancePrincess Sapphire is a girl raised as a Prince. Through the mischief of an angel, the princess is born with both a girl's body and boy's mind. Since there is no boy successor in her kingdom, Sapphire is raised as a boy, but evil ministers try to reveal her secret. Unable to put up with the kind of vicious conduct prevailing in the kingdom, Sapphire disguises herself as "Princess Knight" and wields her sword of justice.This is an animated version of the girls' manga featuring Sapphire's romance and adventure, which marked the first made-for-TV animated program geared towards girls in Japan.Unlike Mahoutsukai Sally this is a real shoujo and thus is the first of its kinda as it really depicts views and wishes from a girl point of view. Rapiers, angel, fairytales - check. There are at least three shoujo anime that I consider masterpieces, but this one is too simple to get in that league.Overall Rating: 4/1034.Permanパーマン [1967-II]Studio Zero (Dropped 3/54)Tags:Adventure, ComedyAfter Mitsuo receives a mask from a retiring superhero, he becomes Paaman.For some reason MAL does not mark Perman as anime for kids, so I have to look into it. And well, I have to agree that it's far from Doraemon or the like. Even though protagonist is a young school boy, anime is mostly based on talks and humor and thus can't be considered a kid anime. At the same time, it's not as saturated in humor as the other three humor anime of the 1960s listed before. The ability to make a double of anyone and a spare Perman costume worn by chimpanzee are creating funny situations ok, but for some reason it fails to deliver on the same level as those three, thus the lower score.Overall Rating: 5/1035.Ougon BatGolden Bat黄金バット [1967-II] Dai-Ichi Douga, Dongyang Animation(Dropped 3/52)Tags:Super PowerAction, Sci-FiA golden warrior wearing a cape and a scepter, Ougon Bat was a protector spirit from Atlantis reanimated by a scientist and his friends (specially the sweet Marie) from his tomb covered in hieroglyphics. His entry was heralded by a golden bat and a sinister laugh and he would put good use of his super powers to combat the evil forces of Dr. Zero.I understand well that it's the first anime with full superhero concealing his identity concept, but it's plain simplistic and bad. The small grains of humor are shallow. Moreover, side characters are terrible.Overall Rating: 2/1036.Bouken GabotenjimaAdventure on the Gaboten Island 冒険ガボテン島[1967-II]TBS (Dropped 3/39)Tags:AdventureBouken Gabotenjima is about children who are shipwrecked on a desert island.Protagonist, younger sister , bookworm, glutton and a rival have shipwrecked... I can't see how concept can work out with this few people of such young age. And , frankly, it did not work out. The bulk of what I saw was overcoming natural difficulties as well as befriending gorilla. Basic stuff without any advanced concept in mind. The only unusual thing was tentacles encountered several times, but easily defeated by couple strikes with a stick. Nowadays such plain concept is impossible.Overall Rating: 3/1037.King Kong: 001/7 Tom Thumbキングコング・001/7親指トム [1967-II](Dropped 0/26)Tags: Adventure, Sci-FiProfessor Bond is doing research on an island in the Java Sea when his son discovers the giant ape and befriends him, and together they fight to protect Kong from Dr. Who, who has sinister designs on the ape. Each episode consisted of a King Kong story, a Tom of T.H.U.M.B., then another King Kong story.Tom of T.H.U.M.B. is a gag cartoon about a secret agent and his oriental sidekick. Animage Pocket Data Notes credits MORI Yasuji and KANISHI Takao as either character designers or animation directors of the latter, differing from the credits for the King Kong portion of the show.This was the first cartoon TV series animated entirely in Japan expressly for American television. American sources state Rankin-Bass commissioned the work from Videocraft International; Japanese sources state it was produced by Videocraft/Toei Doga.I did not find it, so it's probably lost media or smthOverall Rating: 0/1038.Pyun Pyun Maruピュンピュン丸 [1967-III]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/26)Tags:Martial ArtsComedyThe Ninja Pyun Pyun-Maru and his brother Chibi-Maru are working at an office that accepts anything. They solve unexpected happenings caused by other Ninjas.I wonder if it inspired Gintama. Drawing and excessive expressions/gimmicks look childish, but at the same time humor is not always simple and time is of Edo period, so I don't think it's for kids. Just as with Perman, toying with different auditoria erodes the watcher base. Somehow, without normal translation I enjoyed it even less than Perman .Overall Rating: 4/1039.Bouken Shounen Shadar冒険少年シャダー[1967-IV] Nihon Hoso Eigasha (Dropped3/156)Tags:Adventure, HorrorWhen Earth is threatened by the invading Ghostar, a young boy with nerves of steel and the strength of 50 men appears from a cave on Mount Fuji. He is Shadar, a boy of unknown origin who, with his faithful dog, Pinboke, fights to save the world.It's only slightly better than Ougon Bat, mostly due to talking dog companion , so the score is corresponding. This series reminds me of Scooby-Doo in many ways.Overall Rating: 3/1040.Skyers 5スカイヤーズ5[1967-IV] Tele-Cartoon Japan (Dropped2/12)Tags:Action, Sci-FiA science fiction action series about the future battles between a planetary police force and an international crime syndicate. The series plays out as a mix between science fiction and an old western.Some kind of weak James Bond parody. A weird mix makes it a B-class action movie series. There's not a single sincere phrase pronounced, everything is so pompous and fake. No memorable companions as well.Overall Rating: 2/1041.Donkikkoドンキッコ [1967-IV]P Productions (Dropped0/21)Tags:ShounenComedyA comedy about the mischievous adventures of a young boy. Each episode contains 2 stories.Not found.Overall Rating: 0/1042.Gegege no Kitarouゲゲの鬼太郎 [1968-I]Toei Animation (Dropped3/65)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Horror, SupernaturalKitarou, a ghost, spends his afterlife helping humans in need of his skills. He thwarts the plans of evil spirits who live to torment humanity.It's classic. Each episode presents a small horror story where Kitarou gets involved in and solves in an unpredictable way. Stories are nice, other ghosts are cool. But I just don't like horror stories, and without humor or coherent plot there's nothing to pique my interest. It's a well done niche anime, so when it hits a soft spot, it hits hard.Overall Rating: 5/1043.Wanpaku Tanteidanわんぱく探偵団 [1968-I]Fuji TV (Dropped3/35)Tags:Action, MysteryA group of young boys (plus a token girl and her little brother, the obligatory brat) form a detective club, pooling their talents for brain, brawn, invention, and driving skills to solve crimes in Tokyo. Much to the consternation of police chief Nakamura, they often succeed where the professionals fail.Can't stand detectives in any form, especially school detective clubs, unless character interaction fascinates. Side-characters here are stereotypical . Each episode usually starts with crime or incident happening, then first half is often unsealing the mystery like identity of criminal , then the second part is more action-packed. Don't see a reason to watch it today.Overall Rating: 3/1044.Cyborg 009 (TV)サイボーグ009 [1968-II] Toei Animation(Dropped3/26)Tags:ShounenMechaAction, Adventure, Sci-FiThey fight against evil, they help those in need, they're the Cyborg fighters! Together with the scientist Dr. Gilmore, this team of nine cyborgs use their special body modifications to fight against a seemingly endless barrage of enemies, including robotic crabs, aliens, and fellow cyborgs.Each cyborg has his own special power, which they use in their fight against evil. Titular character 009 (aka Hurricane Joe, the famous race car driver) leads the team with his superhuman strength, resistance to bullets, and ability to accelerate through time. His teammates fight by his side to save humanity from falling into evil hands.The team in Cyborg 009 faces many enemies and stops countless threats to their hometown, and even to Earth. No matter what, justice will be served.We're back for short action episodes and little room left for humor, so enjoyment for me is back to square one.Overall Rating: 5/1045.Kaibutsu-kun怪物くん [1968-II]Studio Zero, Tokyo Movie (Dropped3/49)Tags:Comedy, HorrorThe prince of Kaibutsu Land, Kaibutsu-kun, decides to go to the human world as part of his training to become the King.This anime looks like Perman a lot, just instead of super costume and doppelganger robot there is a relative with superpowers. Protagonist boy is literally the same personality. Most conflict situations are also generated around school. Humor is more distinctive and easy to follow thanks to 2 stories per episode structure. Humor quality is still rather low, so can't rate it higher than Perman.Overall Rating: 5/1046.Akane-chanあかねちゃん [1968-II]Toei Animation (Dropped 0/26)Tags:ShoujoSchoolComedy, Slice of LifeA country girl, Akane was new to a prestigious school. She is full of vitality and everyone likes her. Hidemaro, the rich and arrogant boy likes her too. With everyone's help, she solves problems that come their way.Not foundOverall Rating: 0/1047.Animal 1アニマル１ [1968-II] (Dropped 3/27)Tags:Combat SportsIchirou Azuma, a young amateur wrestler, wants to participate in the Olympics Games in Mexico.First sport anime series alongside Kyojin no Hoshi, but this one is much less serious and thus less memorable. It's also a mix with school anime.Overall Rating: 4/1048.Fight Da!! Pyutaファイトだ!! ピュー太[1968-II]Hoso Seisaku Doga (Dropped 3/26)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, Sci-FiA young boy uses his scientific skills to fight enemies.This actually can be called an anime for kids , because each episode one duo of inventors just competes with another malicious duo of inventors. I found concept and implementation rather boring as characters aren't something special, and not enough humor is used.Overall Rating: 4/1049.Kyojin no Hoshi巨人の星 [1968-II]TMS Entertainment (Dropped 2/182 )Tags:Drama, SportsThe story is about Hyuma Hoshi, a promising young baseball pitcher who dreams of becoming a top star like his father Ittetsu Hoshi in the professional Japanese league. His father was once a 3rd baseman until he was injured in World War II and was forced to retire. The boy would join the ever popular Giants team, and soon he realized the difficulty of managing the high expectations. From the grueling training to battling the rival Mitsuru Hanagata on the Hanshin Tigers, he would have to take out his best pitching magic to step up to the challenge.Can't stand spokon without good character interaction. This first genre representative has a clear protagonist focus despite baseball being a team sport.Overall Rating: 5/1050.Taiyou no Ouji: Horus no DaiboukenThe Little Norse Prince太陽の王子ホルスの大冒険 [1968-III] Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Drama Horus is a boy that one day, hunted by silver wolves, found the sword of the sun. The day his father died he left his home to find the people from the town his father told him. Together with a small bear named Koro he starts the journey and runs into a great adventure fighting against Grunwald and his subordinates who want to rule the world.On one hand, it's continuation of Disney-imitating tradion with songs. On the other, concept comes from Miyazaki, and structure is really refined as well as characters. I enjoyed it way more than I expected, so it's the first anime that I consider a masterpiece.Overall Rating: 7/1051.Sabu to Ichi Torimono Hikae佐武と市捕物控 [1968-IV]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/52)Tags:ShounenDetective, Historical, Martial Arts, SamuraiAction, Adventure, Drama, Slice of LifeThe series follows the adventures of Sabu, a young Edo bakufu investigator traveling with the blind master swordsman Ichi. In their travels, they assist the common people in solving mysteries and righting wrongs (usually committed by bandits or corrupt officials). Sabu is engaged to Midori, the daughter of his boss, who works as a police officer for the Tokugawa shogunate.I found concept rather boring as from what I saw the same scheme was used. First we're shown some bandits commit a crime, then our duo is told about it. Finally some search/investigation culminates with encounter. This repetition and rather budget implementation killed the interest.Overall Rating: 5/1052.Youkai Ningen Bem妖怪人間ベム [1968-IV]Dai-Ichi Douga (3/26)Tags:MythologyHorrorThree monsters, Bem, who looks like a gangster, Bero, who looks like a boy, and Bera, a witch, act as agents of justice, hoping that they will be allowed to become human. Several episodes involve them protecting a young boy. The style of animation is fairly distinctive, and the storylines not without interest.Again, concept dictates repeatability as new monsters show up and are dealt with. None of three main characters are charismatic enough. Maybe things improve with remake that also exists.Overall Rating: 4/1053.Sasukeサスケ [1968-IV]Tele-Cartoon Japan (3/29)Tags:ShounenHistorical, Martial ArtsActionSasuke is the son of a very skilled ninja, whose name is Ozaru. After the defeat of their lord, Yukimura Sanada, Tokugawa's and Hattori's ninjas begin to persecute all their enemies still alive: that means Ozaru and Sasuke must leave their house and start a violent struggle for their own life. Danger, vengeance, anger, loyalty, pain are the basic elements of this story, where the worst aspects of the human soul are described together with the growth of the main character, the young Sasuke.Another revenge travel story. A decent one at that. Episodes are action packed , and there are a lot of small ninja tricks showed and explained. I liked it more than Dororo which has a very similar concept , but this one does not have a translation and thus one point is substracted.Overall Rating: 5/1054.Yuuyake Banchou夕やけ番長 [1968-IV] (Dropped 0/26)Tags:ActionA transfer student only just arrives and is confronted by the school gang. One by one he defeats the gang members and challenges their leader to a fight. Each 10 minute episode aired Monday through Saturday.Not foundOverall Rating: 0/1055.Kyubi no Kitsune to Tobimaru (Sesshoseki)九尾の狐と飛丸（殺生石） [1968-IV] (Dropped 0/1)Tags:FantasyMythologyThe film was adapted from a novel by Okamoto Kidou based on a legend surrounding a sterile patch of land at the foot of Mt. Chausu, an active volcano located in Tochigi Prefecture. Since the Heian period the spot has been known to exude poisonous gas (hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, arsenic) that has killed animals and people who happened to wander near the area.A legend arose at one time that long ago in China a kitsune transformed itself into a beautiful maiden, seduced the emperor and caused numerous misfortunes to befall the kingdom, then found her way to Japan, transformed herself into a beautiful maiden called Tamamo, and seduced the emperor etc., before finally being unmasked and killed.Upon her death she cursed her killers and transformed herself on this spot into a poisonous stone called Sesshoseki.Not foundOverall Rating: 0/1056.Himitsu no Akko-chanSecrets of Akko-chanひみつのアッコちゃん [1969-I]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/94)Tags:ShoujoSchoolAtsuko "Akko-chan" Kagami (known variously as "Stilly," "Caroline," or "Julie" in Western versions of the anime) is an energetic elementary school girl who has an affinity for mirrors. One day, her favorite mirror which was given to Akko by her mother (or in some versions, by her father, as a present from India) is broken, and she prefers to bury it in her yard rather than throw it to the trash can. In her dreams, she is contacted by a spirit (or in some cases the Queen of the Mirror Kingdom) who is moved that the little girl would treat the mirror so respectfully and not simply throw it away. Akko-chan is then given the gift of a magical mirror and taught an enchantment that will allow her to transform into anything she wishes.Most situations revolve about transformation and hand mirror that is needed for it. There is enough humor, but I need even more since episodes don't really move plot somewhere. It also lacks expression. I saw there is a live action ofHimitsu no Akko-chan, that might be really entertaining.Overall Rating: 5/1057.Dororo to Hyakkimaruどろろと百鬼丸 [1969-II]Mushi Production (Finished 26/26)Tags:ShounenAction, Adventure, SupernaturalTo aid his conquest of Japan, the ruthless lord Daigo Kagemitsu offers to sacrifice his soon-to-be-born son to 48 demons. The demons accept, and the next day, the child is born with several missing limbs and is ruthlessly cast down a river.Fifteen years later, a stubborn young boy named Dororo struggles to survive against hunger and oppressive samurai on the streets of an impoverished and war-torn village. After angering a group of thugs, Dororo is attacked by them, but a mysterious man interrupts them, claiming to hear spirits nearby. Sure enough, a monster emerges from the river, and the man then removes his prosthetic arms, revealing blades hidden underneath, with which he slays the monster before leaving.That night, as the man walks through the forest, Dororo approaches him and declares that he will accompany him. From this, the man, Hyakkimaru, reveals that many of his body parts were stolen by demons and that though he sought a peaceful life, he couldn't escape their relentless onslaught. Despite the tale, Dororo still insists on tagging along. And thus, Hyakkimaru travels through Japan with his new companion and a puppy named Nota, facing the brutality of both hell and mankind.I realize it's the first bright action shounen. I'm not a fan of this genre although I easily favor Berserk as 10/10, so when I evaluate some action shounen, I compare it with Berserk. It's good that Hyakkimaru is a formed adult, it's good that there are two companions - Dororo and the dog. Both personal stories are told in a good way. But question is what's the motivation and where it all is going. The goal to travel and eventually find all 48 monsters does not look enticing or epic enough. For me this episodic nature looks way weaker than Berserk where plot has a firm direction at all moments. Maybe remake changes my opinion, but I can't call original a masterpiece.Overall Rating: 6/1058.Ninpuu Kamui Gaiden忍風カムイ外伝 [1969-II]Tele-Cartoon Japan (Dropped 3/26)Tags:Historical, Martial Arts, SamuraiAction, AdventureKamui is a ninja from the Edo period who has decided to leave his clan. After doing so he is pursued relentlessly by the members of his former clan; who consider him to be a traitor and therefore wish to kill him. Kamui then wanders around Japan to escape from them by using his intelligence and great abilities to survive. In the course of the series Kamui begins to suffer from paranoia because of his status as a persecuted man. Kamui then started to believe that everybody wished to murder him and became distrusting of everyone he came across.A cool well made action. But it reminds Dororo a lot as there is also a kid travelling along. At the same time it's a simpler structure than Dororo, so can't rate both equally.Overall Rating: 5/1059.Kurenai SanshirouJudo Boy 紅三四郎 [1969-II]Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 2/26)Tags:Martial ArtsActionYoung Sanshiro Kurenai is the proud heir of a judo dojo. One day, he finds his beloved father dead and a glass eye not too far from the corpse. Ready to avenge his father and take his honor back, Sanshiro and his friend Ken start searching for the mysterious one-eyed murderer...Judo plus revenge plus adventure detective is enough to describe the direction of this anime. RemindsBouken Shounen Shadar a lot as thee is also a dog and a companion and an insignificant companion.Overall Rating: 3/1060.Umeboshi Denkaウメ星デンカ [1969-II]Tokyo Movie Shinsha, Studio Zero (Dropped 3/26)Tags:Comedy, Slice of LifeThe goofy tales of a king and his family who make their way to Earth after their planet explodes.Protagonist and probably even family look exactly likePerman. Anime is safe humor focused with alien royal family instead of Perman costume and robot. So in the end score depends on humor quality. There are a lot more opportunities for humor now, but at the same time focus has to be placed on three aliens, and they are irritating in their own way. Because of this focus there is much less school and outdoors activities. Overall, I would rate humor roughly same as Perman , definitely not as enjoyable as Osomatsu-kun.Overall Rating: 5/1061.Senya Ichiya Monogatari千夜一夜物語 [1969-II]Mushi Production (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, FantasyAladdin, a lowly water seller, is new to the city of Baghdad when he sees the beautiful Miriam being sold at a slave auction. Enthralled by her beauty, Aladdin manages to steal Miriam from the auction and spends a passionate night with her in an unoccupied home. When the two wake, however, they are met by the owner of the home and are tragically separated.Osamu Tezuka's lustful tale follows Aladdin and Miriam as they struggle to reunite with each other while facing the trials of a strange and magical world.First ecchi. I don't understand the need for this film, but something had to be the first ecchi, and at least this one is done well, so there's all the right to be proud. There are some memorable graphical solutions and depiction of transformation. The first half has some coherent plot and integrity, but in the second half it goes all out with demons, aliens etc, very surrealistic. Anime is pretty crazy, but there's nothing to lose for not watching it, nothing to gain for watching it. No good thoughts delivered by it.Overall Rating: 5/1062.Soratobu YuureisenFlying Phantom Ship空飛ぶゆうれい船 [1969-III] Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAdventure, Drama, Sci-FiHayato's city is devastated by a giant robot, his parents are killed in the massacre. The only friend left to him is his dog Jack, the only things left are mom's shoe and a picture of a man and a woman who, as his father tells him on his deathbed, are his real parents. Now Hayato wants revenge on the one who is said to have sent the robot: the terrible Ghost Ship which threatens ships and is rumored to wish to exterminate everything. But then Hayato stumbles on a secret underground factory of Mr. Kurosio, owner of mostly everything in the city - and realizes things are not as Mr. Kurosio has been telling him... Someone terrible lives in a castle under the sea... Hayato is trying to tell people the truth - but his life is now in danger by from the one who does not wish to be known. Then Hayato is saved by no other than the captain of the Ghost Ship... Hayato is about to uncover more than the one secret he has been searching for.It's pure adventure with boy protagonist, and a rather naive one... that explains it hat it was aired even in Soviet Union.All that big Tokyo fight vs mecha might have influenced Akira.It's curious for its time, but I see no reason to watch it nowadays.Overall Rating: 4/1063.Tiger Maskタイガーマスク [1969-IV]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/105)Tags:ShounenCombat SportsAction, Drama, SportsTiger Mask (whose real name was Naoto Date) was a feared heel wrestler in America who was extremely vicious in the ring. However, he became a face after returning to Japan when a young boy said that he wanted to be a villain like Tiger Mask when he grew up. The boy resided in an orphanage, the same one that Tiger Mask grew up in during his childhood. Feeling that he did not want the boy to idolize a villain, Tiger was inspired to be a heroic wrestler.The main antagonist in the manga and anime was Tigers' Den, a mysterious organization that trained young people to be villainous heel wrestlers on the condition that they gave half of their earnings to the organization. Tiger Mask was once a member of Tigers' Den under the name "Yellow Devil", but no longer wanted anything to do with them, instead donating his money to the orphanage. This infuriated the leader of the organization and he sent numerous assassins, including other professional wrestlers, to punish him.A boring wrestling action that can only interest for all those unconventional wrestler moves like breaking a table over the head and somewhat curious protagonist character that is cruel, but just.Overall Rating: 2/1064.Sazae-sanMrs. Sazaeサザエさん [1969-IV]Eiken (Dropped 3/?)Tags:Comedy, Slice of LifeThe main character is a mother named Sazae-san. She lives in a house with her husband, her kids and her parents. The show is the ultimate family program and tends to follow traditional themes. Think of this show as the Japanese equivalent to "The Partridge Family" and you'll get a good feel for this show's atmosphere. Don't expect to see things like violence, swearing, kung-fu action or magical girls. The plots are more like "Today, Sazae-san goes to the new mall and gets lost". Such "boring" plotlines and the simplistic art are often a turn-off to non-Japanese audiences, but most Japanese find the show incredibly good. As a result, it continues to be one of the top ratings grabbers on TV and is one of the few anime that is considered "acceptable" by adults.I respect this anime a lot. It's a visit card of Japan . It has nice warm humor. It reflects real life truthfully of different periods. But it's still a national story. Would I want to see all the episodes? Not really as it's too conservative, but it's a great thing that it exists so that even most conservative Japanese can watch it without problem and evolve through it.Overall Rating: 6/1065.Muuminムーミン [1969-IV]Mushi Production (3/65)Tags:Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Slice of LifeVery loosely based upon the Moomin books by Finnish author Tove Jansson. Jansson, however, never really approved of the series due to dramatic changes in plot, atmosphere, character personality, appearance and names etc. The series was directed to adults rather than children.The first classical magical hat episode is really nice and give a proper introduction. Further original episodes are simpler in nature, but still rather enjoyable even with existing mild focus on humor. It's still a story for children, so I doubt Muumin series could ever reach a masterpiece status for me.Overall Rating: 6/1066.Hakushon DaimaouThe Genie Familyハクション大魔王 [1969-IV]Tatsunoko Production (3/52)Tags:Comedy, FantasyOne day Kan-chan finds a magic bottle in the attic. Whenever someone sneezes, a genie named Hakushon Daimaou is brought out and must grant any wish of whoever sneezed until he or she sneezes again. Sometimes, however, he accidentally fails and only causes trouble instead of granting any wishes.Concept-wise close toUmeboshi Denka just with almighty djinnies instead of aliens. Too many gimmicks and too little quality humor for my taste. I prefer conceptual one over situational.Overall Rating: 5/10

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Anime of the Year 1986 - Shounan Bakusouzoku

By kivandopulus, August 17, 2022

Anime of the Year

No clear favorite this year, but a lot of masterpieces with 7 -Hadashi no Gen 2,Shounan Bakusouzoku,Tenkuu no Shiro Laputa,Sangokushi II: Amakakeru Otoko-tachi. I don't want to choose, so the winner will be the only series in the list which isShounan Bakusouzoku.1.Dragon Ballドラゴンボール [1986-I]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/153)Tags:ShounenMartial Arts, Super PowerAdventure, Comedy, FantasyGokuu Son is a young boy who lives in the woods all alone—that is, until a girl named Bulma runs into him in her search for a set of magical objects called the "Dragon Balls." Since the artifacts are said to grant one wish to whoever collects all seven, Bulma hopes to gather them and wish for a perfect boyfriend. Gokuu happens to be in possession of a dragon ball, but unfortunately for Bulma, he refuses to part ways with it, so she makes him a deal: he can tag along on her journey if he lets her borrow the dragon ball's power. With that, the two set off on the journey of a lifetime.They don't go on the journey alone. On the way, they meet the old Muten-Roshi and wannabe disciple Kuririn, with whom Gokuu trains to become a stronger martial artist for the upcoming World Martial Arts Tournament. However, it's not all fun and games; the ability to make any wish come true is a powerful one, and there are others who would do much worse than just wishing for a boyfriend. To stop those who would try to abuse the legendary power, they train to become stronger fighters, using their newfound strength to help the people around them along the way.Watching Dragon Ball for the first time. Actually, first episodes are masterfully crafted. I don't like the concept and won't watch the episodes, but there will be a lot of movies that I might evaluate higher, we'll see.Overall Rating: 6/102.Ai Shoujo Pollyanna Story愛少女ポリアンナ物語 [1986-I]Nippon Animation(Dropped 3/51)Tags:HistoricalDrama, Slice of LifeMotherless since birth, Pollyanna was an ordinary happy-go-lucky girl, leaving peacefully with her father, the vicar. Then one day her life changes completely when her father dies and she has to live with her aunt whom she has never met before. In the beginning, she seems to be detested by her but as time passes, they develop a very strong bond.Another world masterpiece series that I'm not going to finish due to lack of tempo and no goal.Overall Rating: 5/103.Maple Town Monogatariメイプルタウン物語 [1986-I]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/52)Tags:Fantasy, Slice of LifeMaple Town Stories is about friendship, adventure and the troubles the children (Patty Rabbit, Bobby Bear and Fanny Fox) who are the main characters of the show, fall into. Wild Wolfe is a homeless thief who lives in the forest and usually steals from the town and does other mischief, but the kids are always there to stop him and set things right slowly making him understand the wrongs of his ways.It's kids show if not for form, then surely for morality answers it provides. Too childish. It also does not look Japanese at all as if made for export.Overall Rating: 5/104.Uchuusen Sagittarius宇宙船サジタリウス [1986-I]Nippon Animation (Dropped 3/77)Tags:Adventure, Sci-FiWorking for a multi-purpose space agency, Toppy and Rana make friends with Giraffe, a scientist, and go through various adventures in space. The three encounter danger at times, but their friendship always saves them just in the nick of time.Changing humans into sagittarius is a distinctive move towards kid audience. It is also partly musical. Maybe it's not for kids, but for younger children for sure.Overall Rating: 4/105.Kenritsu Chikyuu BoueigunPrefectural Earth Defense Force県立地球防衛軍 [1986-I]Gallop (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-FiTelegraph Pole Society, a mysterious group, is planning to conquer the world. The principal of the local high school forms a Defense Force by recruiting students from school: Shogi Morita, Kuho Tasuke, and Akiko Ifukube. Meanwhile the high school crazy scientist, Dr. Inogami, has turned a local boy, Kami Sanchin, into a cyborg. They might just defeat the Telegraph Pole Society with the help of the cyborg, or maybe not...I liked setting, characters and art. As for humor , liked about one third of it, still enough for a six.Overall Rating: 6/106.The Humanoid: Ai no Wakusei Lezeriaザ・ヒューマノイド哀の惑星レザリア [1986-I]Kaname Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, SpaceDrama, Sci-FiDr. Watson has created his masterpiece – a beautiful woman made of metal. A wonder of science, Antoinette is a childlike innocent who holds the key to an ancient civilization that could save the world, or destroy it. And when a mad tyrant kidnaps the man she loves, Antoinette finally discovers the courage – and the amazing fighting skills – that are her true calling.Story is average at best.Overall Rating: 5/107.Cool Cool Byeクール・クール・バイ [1986-I]Studio Bogey (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, FantasyTwo brothers are riding around on their hover bikes, when suddenly a giant metal fortress gets in their way. After a brief battle, the duo manages to gravely wound the fortress. It retreats and dumps our heroic pair in a wasteland.But this wasteland is inhabited by nomads that indicate that the fortress was hidden inside a mountain. The nomads plead for the duo to finish the job. Two of the natives go with them as guides, and somewhere along the way the gain the help of a fairy that can transform into a mech-warrior woman.I should have blocked an OVA like this with just 30 minutes length, but of course I needed to see how metal fortress gets wounded. Priceless.Overall Rating: 4/108.Kikou Kai Galient OVA機甲界ガリアン [1986-I]Sunrise (Finished 3/3)Tags:MechaAction, Fantasy, Sci-FiThe first two episodes are summaries of the TV series, the third one (Crest of Iron) takes place in an alternate universe.I counted nine stupid moves in first two OVAs, that alone dropped evaluation to 5. But third OVA is a very weird alternative story that's probably retelling of some samurai clan story transferred to this world. Stunningly bad and different from what original story is. It's one of the first mecha that has a logical normal development, but that is buried under horrible logic of events and poor characters actions .Overall Rating: 4/109.Soukou Kihei Votoms RecapsArmored Trooper Votoms Recaps 装甲騎兵ボトムズ [1986-I]Sunrise (Finished 4/4)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryAction, Drama, Sci-FiA summarized version of the TV series in 4 parts.Not translated. Finally saw its end, absolutely horrible open ending.Overall Rating: 4/1010.Karuizawa Syndrome軽井沢シンドローム [1986-I]Kitty Film Mitaka Studio (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenComedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of LifeIt is an action comedy about a young man's persistent sexual fantasies. It has 4 distinct art styles: a manga style, a SD style, a realistic style, and a art-graphic pencil style.Some prety random romance stuff with talks about pregnancy/marriage/love... there's not big concept behind it all and even no good humor.Overall Rating: 5/1011.Honoo no Alpenroseドラマチックメモリー炎のアルペンローゼ [1986-I]Tatsunoko Production (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShoujoHistoricalDrama, RomanceTwo-part OVA that summarises the entire Honoo no Alpenrose TV series featuring a new dubbing and reworked scenes.The story about an amnesiac girl who runs from nazis and finds all kinds of her relatives. So stretched, so boring .Overall Rating: 5/1012.Butten Monogatari仏典物語 [1986-I](Dropped 0/10)Tags:HistoricalAn animated telling of famous Buddhist scriptures, the OVA series focuses on the early days of Buddhism surrounding Gautama Buddha/Siddhartha.Not found (so grateful for that).Overall Rating: 0/1013.Hokuto no Ken MovieFist of the North Star: The Movie 北斗の拳 [1986-I]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags: ShounenAdventure, Sci-FiFollowing a cataclysmic nuclear war, the world teeters on the brink of complete destruction. Civilization is polarized into a degenerate society where opposing packs of marauding scavengers prey on helpless, homeless nomads. For those who are lucky enough to survive the constant brutality and danger, it is a bleak existence. Life an death blur into abstractions. The only hope left for mankind is to find a hero worthy of becoming the next "Fist of the North Star" - an enlightened warrior - who is capable of leading those with the will to survive out of this barrenness into a new world. But in this savage no-man's land of shifting loyalties and power-hungry demi-gods, heroes are in short supply.Epic! More epic! Squared! The whole anime looks like author stormbrained answers from geeks on what they considered cool. Bursting heads? Hits with timer that burst head in exactly 30 seconds? Exchanging hits while the whole city is crashing around this small circle? Of course it has it all. It only makes it unrealistic and laughable for me. Hokuto no Ken is Fast & Furious of anime - the more it tries to look cooler, the more laughable it becomes.Overall Rating: 5/1014.Urusei Yatsura Movie 4: Lum The Foreverうる星やつらラム・ザ・フォーエバー [1986-I]Studio Deen (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sci-FiStrange things begin happening in Tomobiki Town...When a great cherry tree, "Tarozakura" is cut down while Lum & Co. are making a movie, Lum loses her horns-and her powers! Thus begins the strangest and most lyrical of the Urusei Yatsura movies...I'd say it's a bit better than other franchise movies, but there is still nothing exceptional, and concept is still shallow. At least it's able to set a lyrical mood.Overall Rating: 6/1015.Arionネオ・ヒロイック・ファンタジア　アリオン [1986-I]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAction, Adventure, Drama, FantasyIn Thrace, Arion is taken from his mother Demeter by the god Hades. In the Underworld, Arion is trained to be a warrior. His training is driven by revenge: Arion was told that his mother's blindness was caused by Zeus and Zeus' death will remove the curse. Finally, Arion and Geedo (a huge ape-like creature who had become Arion's friend and companion) left the Underworld to find Zeus. Seneca, a small thief, makes off with Arion's sword and this leads Arion to his first encounter with the forces of Zeus, commanded by his daughter Athena. Arion is captured but is later set free by Lesfeena, Athena's mute serving girl. As Arion rejoins Geedo and Seneca (and worries about Lesfeena), the forces of Zeus and Poseidon face each other in battle. In the background sits the scheming Hades, and the calm Apollon who seems to have plans of his own.I remember watching this movie prior to playing Arion visual novel to understand what was going on there. The whole idea of mortal combat between gods and titans with pretty much everyone dying is very viable, but realization could be a lot better. With an unsatisfactory ending like that it can't become a masterpiece.Overall Rating: 6/1016.Kinnikuman: New York Kiki Ippatsu!キン肉マンニューヨーク危機一髪！ [1986-I](Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, SportsTerryman, Robin Mask, and the other Justice Choujins are participating in a tournament in New York. Suddenly, Akuma Shogun (not the same as the guy from the series) arrives and defeats all of the Justice Choujins and absorbs their power... all except Kinnikuman (who was late for the tournament because he was busy eating gyuudon). Now Kinnikuman must defeat Akuma Shogun, whom now posseses the combined strength of all the Justice Choujins.Another kinnikuman movie with length of just two episodes. Sadly, it reuses all the usual for show trops and humor yet again. I seriously have seen most its moves presented here already, that substracts a score point.Overall Rating: 4/1017.Seito Shokun! Kokoro ni Midori no Neckerchief wo生徒諸君! 心に緑のネッカチーフを [1986-I]Ashi Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoSchoolComedyStudents who do not trust teachers, teachers who give up faith in education, parents who blame schools for their children's misbehavior...Naoko was at a loss when she was assigned as a new high school teacher. Times have changed and students are no longer easy to control, but she chose not to look away. Instead, Naoko reaches out to try and discover the various issues hidden in the modern education system.Not translated. Synopsis is for later manga, but not for this work. Naoko is still a student here. She fools around with her classmates and participates in green bandana event. Comedy is shallow, drama artificial. Overall Rating: 5/1018.Maison Ikkokuめぞん一刻 [1986-II]Studio Deen (Dropped 4/96)Tags:SeinenAdult CastComedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of LifeIn the town of Clock Hill, there is an old boarding house called Maison Ikkoku. While the residence itself is fairly normal, most of its occupants are not. Yuusaku Godai, its most quiet tenant, has finally reached his limit with his neighbors' constant disruptions and boisterous partying. Wanting a calmer place to call home so that he can study in peace, he prepares to move away.However, his plans to leave are suddenly interrupted when he meets the new boarding house manager, Kyoko Otonashi. Falling madly in love with her, he decides that the boarding house may not be such a bad place to live after all. Unfortunately for him, Kyoko has her own romantic troubles: she is a widow whose husband died six months into their marriage. And despite her blossoming feelings for Godai, Kyoko still cherishes her dearly departed husband, and she believes that no other man could possibly fill the void in her heart. But with Godai's persistence and some help of the other eccentric tenants, she may experience true love once again.Same as Touch, very nice, but episodic and 100 episodes long. It's my policy not to give masterpiece scores if I have not watched series to the end, but watching 100 episodes of any episodic show is a waste of time for me. Story is much more important than setting, characters and humor combined.Overall Rating: 6/1019.Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ機動戦士ガンダムZZ [1986-II]Sunrise (Dropped 3/47)Tags:Mecha, Military, SpaceComedy, Drama, Sci-FiIn Universal Century 0088, the Anti-Earth Union Group (AEUG) has emerged victorious in its war with the Earth Federation's Titans at the cost of devastating losses. Neo-Zeon, the third faction in the war formerly known as Axis Zeon, remains as powerful as ever. Led by Newtype Haman Karn, Neo-Zeon has been implementing plans to take over both Earth and the space colonies.The AEUG flagship Argama heads to the Side 1 colony Shangri-La for repairs. Living in the colony is Judau Ashta, a 14-year-old junk dealer who is struggling to make enough money to put his younger sister through school. Upon the discovery of an escape pod containing a former Titans pilot, Judau and his friends are quickly led to the Argama in hopes of stealing a mobile suit which they can sell for a fortune. However, with the arrival of a Neo-Zeon ship seeking to defeat the Argama, Judau and his friends are dragged into to a conflict that will bring them across space and Earth.I'm still open-minded towards the series, but this one has some very bad elements in first episodes. Frustratingly bad ones.Overall Rating: 4/1020.Ginga Nagareboshi Gin銀牙　流れ星銀 [1986-II]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/21)Tags:ShounenAnthropomorphicAction, Adventure, DramaGin is a silver Tora-ge named after his coat color. Shortly after being born, he watches his father, Riki, get killed by Akakabuto, a bear that terrorizes everything in his path. Being the third-generation of bear-dogs to try to stand up against Akakabuto, he ventures out to find dogs to join him in his fight.There have been many movies about dogs already, but this series is basically copycat of one of them - Daisetsusan no Yuusha Kibaou. If you've seen that, watching this series is a total waste of time.Overall Rating: 4/1021.Hikari no Densetsu光の伝説 [1986-II]Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 3/19)Tags:ShoujoMusic Romance, SportsHikari is a young school girl who dreams of becoming a great champion in the sport of rhythmic gymnastics like her idol, Diliana Gueorguiva. Despite all her setbacks while performing, she works hard and with the help and support of Takaaki Oiishi (the best male gymnast of her school) soon becomes a member of the rhythmic gymnastics team in her school. She develops feelings for Oiishi, but she is not the only one—Hazuki Shiina, the best gymnast in the entire school, also has feelings for Oiishi. Soon a friendship between Hikari and Shiina develops, but also a rivalry as well in the sport and for the love of Oiishi. Hikari is also torn between her feelings for Oiishi and her conflicting feelings for Mao Natsukawa, an old childhood friend, who is also the lead singer of the band called Mr. D. He composes the music she uses while performing, and has been developing feelings for her since childhood.Another shoujo that's too simple to matter, gymnastics spokon only makes it worse.Overall Rating: 5/1022.Seishun Anime ZenshuuAnimated Classics of Japanese Literature青春アニメ全集 [1986-II]Nippon Animation (Finished 32/32)Tags:HistoricalDrama, RomanceA brilliant collection of beautifully animated episodes based on selected masterpieces of Japanese modern literature.The aim of this series is to appeal to the viewer at large and to give him or her some idea of the variety and individuality which Japanese literature has developed over the last hundred years.Watched it all, because I like Dazai and I remember a great Bunka anime watched in the past. Well, this series is not Dazai. At all. First half of the series are lyrical romance stories, and pretty simple since there's a strict time limit. The second half is a weird mashup of everything - judo, detective, even freaking animal story. And I definitely have seen judo and animal story in earlier anime series, so it's very disappointing. I did not find anything of use to me at all. Only good to set up lyrical mood, something that I don't need .Overall Rating: 6/1023.Wonder Beat Scrambleワンダービート S(スクランブル) [1986-II]Mushi Production (Dropped 3/26)Tags:SpaceAction, Sci-FiIn 2119, the spaceship Green Sleeves found 3 planets attacked by X23, a moving planet heading Earth. The Earth government ordered Green Sleeves to attack X23, but Dr. Sugita, the captain of Green Sleeves, refused because he believed they could co-exist. Then, the communication with Green Sleeves was cut abruptly...In 2121, Susumu, the son of Dr. Sugita, is visited by strangers. The take him to Dr. Miya, one of the few supporters to Dr. Sugita's decision, while most blamed him as a traitor. Dr. Miya recommends Susumu to join White Pegasus, a team of special medical recuers. Their Micronizer System can shrink human so that they can cure from the inside of the body. Shortly afterwards, X23 has come in visual range at last. Hues - the aliens of X23 - choose Susumu's friend as their first target. Susumu and the other members of White Pegasus manage to defeat Hues inside of his body. But Susumu finds the signals emitted from the chips within Hues are the music composed by himself and his mother, as a gift to Dr. Sugita...Team gets miniscule and travels inside body looking for source of sickness. I'm ashamed to admit that either this show or a very similar one was shown at my school labor lessons couple times... so weird.Overall Rating: 4/1024.Go-Q-Choji IkkimanBattle Ball 剛Q超児イッキマン[1986-II]Toei Animation (Dropped 1/32)Tags:Sci-Fi, SportsIkkiman is super human alien, but he doesn't know it. He was raised in a farm by an old couple. When his girlfriend dumps him to become a star, Ikkiman swears to himself that he will become a super star even more famous then her so they can get back together, and so he leaves the farm for the city. There, he interrupts the match of the Battle-ball team "Blue Planets," the battle-ball champions of the earth, and decides to join them with his superhuman discovered abilities. With the Blue planets, Ikkiman will play against alien enemy's for the title of champion and for the sake of the planet Earth.A single episode is translated. A modified baseball that encourages to use dirty moves. Protagonist is a superhuman who overcomes all those dirty moves. Comedy is shallow .Overall Rating: 5/1025.Soukihei MD GeistM.D. Geist装鬼兵ＭＤガイスト [1986-II]Zero-G Room (Finished 1/1)Tags: Mecha, MilitaryAction, Sci-FiIn the distant future, mankind has colonized other planets in the universe. While many planets lived in peace, the planet Jerra has been ravaged by decades of war. Geist is an M.D.S. (Most Dangerous Soldier), an enhanced human with unsurpassed combat capabilities and an insatiable lust for battle. Because of his uncontrollable nature, Geist is cryogenically frozen and locked in a satellite. Several years later, the satellite crashes and Geist wakes up from his sleep to engage in another war. This time, to help the army stop the planet's central computer from activating a doomsday device that will lead to total annihilation of all life on Jerra.It can be called evil Hokuto no Ken with real coolness and less showing off. Maybe second movie would be really meaningful, but first movie is more of a prologue, and I can't rate it as a masterpiece.Overall Rating: 6/1026.Violence Jack: Harlem Bomber-henViolence Jack: Slumkingバイオレンスジャック〜ハーレム・ボンバー編〜 [1986-II]Production Reed (Finished 1/1)Tags:GoreAction, Drama, HorrorKanto Hell Earthquake has demolished the metropolitan completely. After the earthquake, Slum King is kidnapping girls and sell them as sex slaves. Mari is wandering on the devastated field looking for her lover, Ken. But she is also kidnapped by them. While she is tortured and trained as a sex slave, Ken saves her. Ken has become the member of Slum King. The king offers condition to him; in return for releasing her, he has to kill Violence Jack.Hasty, chaotic story about some action and nothing memorable. There seem to be a lot of Violence Jack franchise series.Overall Rating: 5/1027.The ChoujoMaris the Chojoザ・超女[ザ・スーパーギャル] [1986-II]Pierrot (Finished 1/1)Tags:Super PowerComedy, Sci-FiDespite being a refugee from an extinct planet, having an alcoholic as a father and an airhead for a mother, Maris' biggest problem is that she's a Thanatosian. Considering that Thanatosians are six times stronger than the average Earthling it shouldn't be such a curse, especially in a galaxy where violence is rife. But the accidental destruction she wreaks on everything she touches —even with the exotic alloy restraints she wears— means she's constantly in debt. Every mission she's assigned to by the Inter-Galactic Space Patrol becomes a cash-drain when all the damages are docked from her wage.But when she's selected to rescue the rich and sexy Kogane Maru it's like a dream come true. After setting him free from the terror of his ruthless kidnapper his eternal gratitude will surely guarantee marriage —and an end to all her financial headaches.It feels like a fight between members of Dirty Pair with a lot of comedy. Nothing big, nothing memorable.Overall Rating: 6/1028.Choujuu Kishin Dancougar: Ushinawareta Mono-tachi e no RequiemDancougar: Requiem for Victims超獣機神ダンクーガ失われた者たちへの鎮魂歌（レクイエム） [1986-II]Production Reed (Finished 1/1)Tags:MechaAction, DramaThe Dancouga team prepares for its final showdown with their arch-enemy Zorbados. The team has to travel to the strange dimension of the alien invaders to once and for all save the earth. Fighting on the home-grounds of the enemy will take all their strength and cunning. The Dancouga will have to fight its way to the strange alien red dimension before it can start its final assault and assure the safety of mankind forever.Every time I see a space emperor sending another general to conquer the Earth and it's showed in a serious manner, anime gets doomed for me. This one is exactly such case of old-school mecha that's revitalized a bit with visuals, but the core remains morally old.Overall Rating: 4/1029.Bari Bari Densetsuバリバリ伝説 [1986-II]Pierrot (Finished 2/2)Tags:ShounenRacingAction, DramaThe main character, Gun, rides a customized Honda CB750F cafe racer and eventually evolves into a pro road racer.Not translated. Serious racing is always boring, but this one even includes some live action shots. Looks like one big Honda advertising to me.Overall Rating: 2/1030.Pelican Road Club Carouchaペリカンロード　クラブ・カルーチャ [1986-II]Studio World (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenDrama, RomanceHigh School boy Kenichi Watanabe is crazy about his MBX50 motorcycle. He and his buddies organize a motorcycle club, which they call Culture.Damn, the second racing anime, and again one big Honda advertising. Disgusting.Overall Rating: 2/1031.Project A-KoプロジェクトＡ子 [1986-II]APPP (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, Super PowerAction, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-FiSixteen years after its destruction by a meteor, Graviton City has been rebuilt into a futuristic metropolis. However, this is of little concern to superpowered high school student Eiko Magami, who only cares about her best friend Shiiko Kotobuki and arriving at school on time. Unfortunately, the incredibly intelligent Biko Daitokuji intends to befriend Shiiko, taking Eiko's place as the Shiiko's best friend using any means she can.Biko decides that, to accomplish this, she must defeat Eiko in combat. In order to overcome her super strength and speed, Biko creates a mecha and challenges Eiko in front of their school gate. As the two commence their battle, an extremely large spaceship hovers over Earth, searching for something left behind.Fanservice baka comedy action. In that order. Basically, first superwpower A-Ko and B-Ko fight for a usual cute crybaby C-Ko, then aliens start aiming for C-Ko and whole cities get destroyed. Wild stuff like that. Still , a bit memorable due to several crazy things happening in succession.Overall Rating: 5/1032.Hadashi no Gen 2Barefoot Gen 2はだしのゲン　２ [1986-II]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenHistoricalDramaThree years have passed since the bombing of Hiroshima and Gen is now a fourth-grader. Hiroshima is still a ruin, and Gen must scrounge for scrap metal to help keep himself and his remaining family fed, but at least commerce has returned to the land. As his mother gradually grows ill from radiation sickness, Gen and Ryuta befriend a group of orphans led by a tough-nosed older child and including a girl who still bears ugly burn scars from the day of the bomb. An old man suffering from depression is also drawn into the group as they come together to support each other and form a makeshift family. Reality is still harsh, however, as many orphans still die lonely deaths and the grim reminders of what happened linger everywhere.I gave original an eight, so now I'm in a pinch. Events take place three years after the bombings, so of course it can't be same level of anxiety. Not much is happening as kids are still learning to survive, this time alongside homeless street children. But it's same well done, I enjoyed it anyway, so I can still give it a masterpiece status.Overall Rating: 7/1033.Touch: Sebangou no Nai Aceタッチ背番号のないエース [1986-II]Group TAC (Finished 1/1)Tags:Team SportsDrama, Romance, SportsCompilation movie of the first year of Touch timeline. Contains plot differences, added scenes and an alternate ending.I remember series to have had substantial comedy. This movie is third sports, third romance, third drama. Not something I could appreciate.Overall Rating: 6/1034.Sango Shou Densetsu: Aoi Umi no Elfieサンゴ礁伝説　青い海のエルフィ [1986-II]Nippon Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Sci-FiIn the future, the oceans have risen to flood all the continents due to humanity's negligence of the environment. Only a few bits of land have been spared, and one of those is the city-island where Elfie lives with her grandfather. One day, due to an underwater incident, she discovers that she can breathe underwater. Her grandfather reveals that in truth she is one of the mythical sea-people. Using the city-folk's xenophobia, local politicians spark a war with this hidden people to distract people from their current resource problems, and Elfie is caught in the middle of it.Pretty much everything is wrong in this anime. Moralistic environmentalism, poor drawing, simple characters, clear black and white sides. People comparing it to masterpiece Nausicaa are misguided by plot and travel vehicle similarities. The complexity difference of these titles are Heaven and Earth. If compare it to something, should pick up something older like Soratobu Yuureisen or Kaitei Sanman Mile, but people who only heard of Nausicaa do these comparisons out of ignorance.Overall Rating: 4/1035.Tabidachi: Ami ShuushouDeparture: Ami, the Last Chapter 旅立ち　-亜美・終章- [1986-II]APPP (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, RomanceMovie based on the Ami series of the Cream Lemon franchise. This movie was co-aired with Project A-Ko movie.Imagine the most basic idol story with a bit of everything and nothing focused. Now add fanservice. Bam ! You've got Ami. Waste of time.Overall Rating: 4/1036.Niji no Kanata e! Shoujo Diana Monogatari虹のかなたへ! 少女ダイアナ物語 [1986-II]Aubec (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoHistoricalThe rare anime biography of Princess Diana from her birth to her early teen years.I should have blocked it due to only 25 minute length, but I was a bit curious. The whole "story" is based on a handful of facts - parents are divorced, Diana taking care about animals during study, winning pet competition with guinea pig, getting to know strict stepmother. Not something I could recommend.Overall Rating: 4/1037.Machine Robo: Cronos no Dai GyakushuuMachine Robo: Revenge of Cronosマシンロボクロノスの大逆襲 [1986-III]Production Reed (Dropped 3/47)Tags:Martial Arts, Mecha, SpaceAction, Sci-FiThe journey of a robot prince begins! The planet Cronos is a world of super-robotic lifeforms, ruled by the wise Master Kirai. But their peaceful existence is shattered by the conquering armies of the Gandora robots. Now, machine combats machine in an epic battle for the planet. Master Kurai's son, Rom, must lead a company of transformable mecha warriors into the fray!Nothing can beat esper mecha, but robot mecha is rather close to it with a whole new world of cringe. Robots piloting transformer mecha while protecting civilian robots and fighting evil robots? Why is it so bad...Overall Rating: 3/1038.Call Me Tonightコール・ミー・トゥナイト [1986-III]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:GoreComedy, Horror, Romance, Sci-FiRumi's met a lot of guys through her job, and it's probably fair to assume that most of them could be said to have some sort of problem, but a man who literally turns into a beast when he gets turned on may be outside of this perky call girl's field of expertise. Still, a little challenge every now and again stimulates the mind and makes life so much more interesting, so she's willing to give it a shot.It's more like ecchi. Don't know how to describe it, but it's not impressive and not memorable. It's hardly a comedy at all. Just a monster transformation case where curse gets cured as spontaneously as it gets attached.Overall Rating: 5/1039.California Crisis: Tsuigeki no JuukaCalifornia Crisis: Gun Salvoカリフォルニア・クライシス　追撃の銃火 [1986-III]Studio Unicorn, Hiro Media (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Sci-FiOne hundred miles south of Los Angeles, a reckless biker named Marcia and her newfound acquaintance Noera crash their vehicles after getting caught in the explosion of a semi truck. In the resulting confusion, Marcia manages to sneak off with a briefcase containing a mysterious dark orb. When Marcia and Noera touch it, they experience a vision of Death Valley. Taking this as a sign that the ball needs to be brought to Death Valley, the pair set out on the road, chasing their version of the American Dream, all while evading those who seek to take the elusive object back from them.Whole anime is pursuit after seeing the vision. First strange men follow on foot, then on cars, finally on aircrafts. Absolutely sudden and horrible ending crowns the miserable impression.Overall Rating: 4/1040.Amon Sagaアモン・サーガ [1986-III]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, FantasySet in a world of fantasy and adventure, Amon is a young warrior embarking on a quest to avenge the death of his mother. When the hunt leads him ultimately to the kingdom of Valhiss, Amon enlists in the ranks of the Emperor's army in order to gain an opportunity to exact his revenge. However, a chance encounter with the Princess Lichia, being held captive by the Emperor in an effort to ransom a map away from his main rival, King Darai-Sem, Amon must decide whether to follow his path of revenge or to help rescue the Princess in an effort to save a lost kingdom.Finally a true originator of classic fantasy genre. I tried to find roots of genre in Dragon ball, Arion, Genmu Senki Leda and even in two seasons of anime about gnomes, but they had only tiny elements incorporated. All elements are so familiar that if I was told that story is in DnD setting, I would just assume companions are of different classes and totally believe that. It's pretty good as action, but to get a masterpiece status anime needs to be more complex than that.Overall Rating: 6/1041.Soukou Kihei Votoms: Big BattleArmored Trooper Votoms: Big Battle 装甲騎兵ボトムズ　ビッグバトル [1986-III]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, MilitaryAction, Drama, Sci-FiBig Battle is a one-shot OVA set after the climax of the original Votoms storyline, but before the epilogue at the end of the series itself. With the Gilgamesh and Balarant forces still trying to advance their PS programs, Chirico and his old friends are forced into one last gladiatorial battle against a special PS and a formidable land battleship.Finally the best part is made as a separate movie so I can see its appeal in full bloom. It's finally watchable, but not enjoyable, sadly .Overall Rating: 5/1042.Roots Search: Shokushin Buttai XRoots Searchルーツ・サーチ食心物体Ｘ [1986-III]Hiro Media (Finished 1/1)Tags:SpaceHorror, Sci-FiWhen a research crew in deep space discovers the desolate ship "Green Planet" that warps into their area, they encounter Buzz, the commander and sole survivor of the ship. Being too incapacitated to make them aware of the situation of his ship, the research team will soon discover that they have found something far, far worse...Ridly Scott Alien movie was released in 1979 and had quite some impact, so appearance of similar works was just a matter of time. I'm not fond of concept itself without flawless execution, but this particular anime also toys with Esper powers like telepathy, so my negative reaction should be obvious.Overall Rating: 5/1043.Shounan Bakusouzoku湘南爆走族 [1986-III]Toei Animation (Finished 12/12)Tags:ShounenDelinquentsAction, ComedyIn Japan, the country that inspired the slogan "Born to be Mild," the blood of young men still runs hot. In the old days they'd go off into the country and hack each other up with swords, but these days, what with school, that isn't very practical.So some of them do something very un-Japanese. They strap on a big bike, roar around annoying people, and pound anyone they consider dishonorable.Now meet Eguchi Yousuke, leader of a high-school Biker gang AND the school's handicrafts club. Which means he divides his time between fistfights and fancy needlework.And if you think he's weird, wait until you meet the rest of his gang...I was so glad to see the 12 episode format... until realized that each episode lasts over 50 minutes. The quality is superb, but just one episode was released each year, so it only finished in 1999. Anyway, from synopsis and comedy tag I expected predecessor of Onizuka. To my surprise what I got was drastically different. First two episodes are about biker gangs wars, third is about boxing club, fourth is about surfing. Fifth marks conflict with a new gang. Sixth is a personal story of one of four bomber gang members. Seventh is about saving sewing club. Eight is called "Legend of the red star" - which is the emblem of bombers - is mostly flashbacks about the past. 9th is yet another big gang war, but protagonists mostly wear everyday clothes and it's said that it's 10 years later and bombers have broken up. 10th episode is told from non-Japanese speaker Samantha, and it might be supposed to be epilogue as it showed everyone's lives 10 years later. 11th episode is flashback of school Tokyo trip and covering romance loose ends. 12th episode is finalizing romance line and farewell. Main problem for me is that humor here is scarce or subtle and romance is determined from mutual sympathy from the start. Events are mostly serious, even though often done with funny faces. I enjoyed only episodes 7 and 10 substantially, but that's enough for a masterpiece score considered the level of complexity and character development.Overall Rating: 7/1044.KizuoibitoWounded Man傷追い人 [1986-III]Magic Bus (Finished 5/5)Tags:SeinenAction, Adventure, SuspenseYuko Kusaka is a Japanese journalist sent to Brazil to do a report on the gold rush phenomenon that seems to be making many people rich from night to day. Rumors say that among the many "garimpeiros" (gold diggers) currently on the Amazon forest, there is a Japanese known as Rio Baraki. Reaching their destination, her crew member is promptly attacked and she is raped as a warning to stop their work and return immediately to their home country. Determined to do her job, she stays and finds out from the attacker that he is none other than Baraki, a white haired muscular man with a large scar on his back. Later she discovers that his real name is Keisuke Ibaraki. Once a promising quarterback, he ended up falsely incriminated by a powerful organization known as GPX.This anime has distinctive hentai scenes in every episode, just without parts to censor, it's absolutely not mild nudity. Basically, main character is a survivor as gold digger in a very aggressive environment, and he also calls himself avenger. From the second episode at least one girl he already has had H with dies, because show demands fresh flesh and blood each time for him to avenge. Very specific gory and nudity-filled action.Overall Rating: 4/1045.Aoki Ryuusei SPT Layzner OVABlue Comet SPT Layzner蒼き流星SPTレイズナー [1986-III]Sunrise (Finished 3/3)Tags:ShounenMecha, Military, SpaceAction, Sci-FiThe Layzner OVA serves as an alternative version of the TV series.The first episode, titled "Eiji 1996", recaps the first part of the series (episodes 01-24). The second episode ("Le Caine 1999") takes place after a time skip, and contains episodes 26 through 37 (episode 25 of the TV series, being a recap itself, is skipped here).The final episode, "Seal 2000", is an expanded version of the final episode of the TV series (38) and features new animation and a longer epilogue.It's nice to see the story to the end. The series was plain horrible from the start, but it evolved into something at least watchable .Overall Rating: 5/1046.Majo demo Steady魔女でもステディ [1986-III]Tokyo Media Connections (Finished 1/1)Tags:Comedy, Romance, EcchiHisashi Seki, ordinary working guy, wakes up one morning to find a naked, and very amorous, girl in his bed. He's happy to take advantage of the situation, to their mutual satisfaction. However, the girl's appearance leads to all sorts of increasingly strange phenomenon. The cause lies, sort of, in Jungian psychology. The girl, whom he has named Asami, is from a parallel dimension where people's ideal partners - the anima to their animus, or vice versa - reside. Asami's longing has allowed her to cross dimensions to be with Seki, but her presence in his world upsets the natural order. She goes back, and Seki must venture to her world to save her. The lovers are reunited. However, matters don't turn out quite as they hoped.I don't remember previous titles with girl suddenly appearing in boy room as setting, so it might be originator. Short, weird, not memorable.Overall Rating: 5/1047.Nayuta那由他 [1986-III]OB Planning (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoAction, Sci-FiScifi tale of a young girl who acquires ESP powers.Based on the manga by Sasaki Junko, published in three volumes by Shougakukan under the Flower Comics label.Esper shoujo is on comparable level with esper mecha... below the bottom.Overall Rating: 2/1048.Choujikuu Romanesque Samy: Missing 99Superdimensional Romanesque Samy: Missing 99超時空ロマネスク　サミー　ＭＩＳＳＩＮＧ・９９ [1986-III]Aubec (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Sci-FiGetting caught up in a gang fight would be a bad day in anybody's life. But for high school student Sami Yoshino, things go from bad to worse as she finds herself thrown across time and space to unknown worlds. Now she's caught up in a gang fight of biblical proportions, between the divine masters of the universe and the demons who seek to destroy it. As it turns out, Samy hides phenomenal cosmic powers within her, and the demons will stop at nothing to suppress it. Can Samy ever escape the conflict and return to being a normal girl, or is the whole universe going to die?This anime is a mess about a girl who runs away from all kinds of baddies via most strange means. Execution is also lacking. To get a mixed rating, anime must have at least something done good. I can't find strong points of this anime unless you like random stuff happening.Overall Rating: 4/1049.Tenkuu no Shiro LaputaCastle in the Sky 天空の城ラピュタ[1986-III]Studio Ghibli (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Sci-FiIn a world filled with planes and airships, Sheeta is a young girl who has been kidnapped by government agents who seek her mysterious crystal amulet. While trapped aboard an airship, she finds herself without hope—that is, until the ship is raided by pirates. Taking advantage of the ensuing confusion, Sheeta manages to flee from her captors. Upon her escape, she meets Pazu, a boy who dreams of reaching the fabled flying castle, Laputa. The two decide to embark on a journey together to discover this castle in the sky. However, they soon find the government agents back on their trail, as they too are trying to reach Laputa for their own greedy purposes.Tenkuu no Shiro Laputa follows the soaring adventures of Sheeta and Pazu, all while they learn how dreams and dire circumstances can bring two people closer together.I have not seen Laputa before. Watching it after Mirai Shounen Conan brings so many recollections due to a huge number similarities. Main difference is that Conan was a one man army. Here Pazu is only good at running, but is weak at actual collisions. Laputa could only be a thing if it was launched before Conan. Without it and without having as many nice characters (Laputa has few characters), Laputa can only be called a so-so masterpiece if not lower.Overall Rating: 7/1050.WindariaOnce Upon A Timeウインダリア, 童話めいた戦史ウインダリア [1986-III]Kaname Productions(Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Sci-FiTwo pairs of young lovers become embroiled in a war between two rival kingdoms, the primitive but resplendent Isa and the militaristic but undisciplined Paro. Izu and his young wife, Marin, are simple farmers who live in the unassuming village of Saki, which lies directly between Isa and Paro. While Saki does not have the beauty of Isa nor the war machines of Paro, they do possess a magnificent tree known as "Windaria," to which the villagers give their prayers in return for "good memories."When the war erupts, Izu decides to join Paro's army, enthralled by the fantastic motorbike "given" to him as a bribe. Before he departs, they each take a vow: He will definitely return to her, and until he does, she will wait for him. The other two lovers are Jill, the prince of Paro, and Ahanas, Princess of Isa. They initially want nothing to do with the rapidly escalating conflict, but after Jill's father, Paro's king, dies by his son's hand in an altercation over the war, Jill has little choice but to realize his father's final wish: the taking of Isa.The only problem is that he had promised his beloved, Ahanas, that he would not become involved. Windaria is a war parable set in a fantasy land of unicorns and ghost ships.A nice story showing how stupid moral of "let's fight at different sides , then fool everyone and run away together" is. War brings so much evil under false pretext of nations pressure that no side remains untainted. Corruption, manipulation and treachery becomes a commonplace. There can be no justification for warmongers. I liked the message of the film, but the execution, the characters and the despair concept put a big enough dent on evaluation .Overall Rating: 5/1051.Gall Force 1: Eternal Storyガルフォース [1986-III]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, Military, SpaceAction, Adventure, Sci-FiTwo advanced civilizations, the Paranoids (a race of alien humanoids) and the Solenoids (who are all women) are waging a war that has gone on for centuries. When the Solenoid fleet leaves a battle to defend an experimentally terraformed world from the Paranoids, one damaged Solenoid ship, the Star Leaf, is separated from the fleet.Only seven women remain alive on the ship: Eluza, the captain, Rabby, the solid more or less main character, Lufy, the brash pilot, Catty, the mysterious science officer, Pony, the pink-haired ditzy tech, Patty, a solid crew member, and Remy, the cute one.After narrowly escaping the battle, the crew of the Star Leaf decides to continue with their orders and rendezvous at planet Chaos to defend it. It turns out, however, that their ship is the subject of a Paranoid experiment. In the end, it is up to the remaining crew Star Leaf to defend the artificial paradise of Chaos from the Paranoid fleet and the plans of the Solenoid leaders.Characters are ok, but not developed much. Plot is ok, but not impressive. I'd definitely watchable, but can hardly find anything to recommend it for .Overall Rating: 6/1052.Ai CityLove Cityアイ・シティ [1986-III]AIC(Finished 1/1)Tags:Super PowerAction, Sci-FiIt's sometime in the future and the story starts off with Kei and Ai running for their lives. Ai is a little girl who holds a terrible secret which could destroy the current world. The world is now populated by Headmeters, people who have psychic powers and their strength is shown on their forehead when they fight. However, Kei was an experimental subject and his strength never went above level 5 while other surpasses his ability effortlessly. While escaping, when in desperate moments, Kei could increase his ability to infinity when Ai is in trouble.The one who's after her have a deep secret, aided by a small dwarflike man living in a robotic suit. Eventually Ai is captured and Kei, a sherlock holmes detective and another Headmeter who was converted to the good side when Kei unleashed his horrible powers through Ai must go and rescue her.Together they must save Ai and the secret which she holds. What is the secret of Ai? Who is she?It's above average for esper themed works, but on a grand scale.Overall Rating: 4/1053.Super Mario Brothers: Peach-hime Kyuushutsu Daisakusen!Super Mario Brothers: Great Mission to Rescue Princess Peach スーパーマリオブラザーズ　ピーチ姫救出大作戦! [1986-III]Grouper Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAdventure, ComedyIn the film, Mario and Luigi are the owners of a grocery store. One night, Mario was engrossed in his Famicom game. Suddenly, the picture goes out and Princess Peach appears on the TV screen crying for help from the enemies attacking her and jumps out of the TV. Mario falls in love with her and vows to protect her. Soon after, Koopa appears on the TV screen and starts to come out of the TV. He grabs Princess Peach and takes her into the TV. Mario then discovers a small brooch that Peach left on the floor.The next day, the brooch that Peach dropped becomes a matter of concern for Mario. Luigi immediately notices the brooch and regards it as the "Visionary Jewel from the Country of Treasure". Soon, Kibidango, a small dog-like being, wanders into the store and notices that Mario has Peach's brooch. He takes it away from Mario, enraging him, thus beginning his (and Luigi's) chase with Kibidango into the Mushroom Kingdom.I hope you did not have high expectations of this, because it's childish, nonsensical and bad looking animation.Overall Rating: 4/1054.High School! Kimengumi (Movie)ハイスクール!奇面組　劇場版 [1986-III]Tsuchida Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenGag Humor, Parody, School Comedy, RomanceThree additional adventures for the Kimengumi and friends. In the first episode, the boys fail their exams right before summer vacation and have to take supplementary lessons. The second episode is a mandatory school trip to the beach during summer vacation for a swimming competition. In the third episode school is back in session, the karate club is in danger when a new opponent appears.Three stories of average humor quality compared to TV series, going to rate it lower than series.Overall Rating: 5/1055.Itoshi no Betty Mamonogatari愛しのベティ魔物語 [1986-III]Big Bang (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenFantasy, RomanceA devil-girl with the face of an angel and a heart of gold, blond Betty falls in love with an earthbound gangster, Danpei Kimogawa, when they meet in a rainstorm. They end up living together in a Tokyo highrise apartment, though Danpei has trouble coping with his new witch and demon in-laws dropping in at inopportune moments. Betty has actually been sent to the human world on a mission to defeat the demon Lutan. While Betty continues her task, her skeletal grandmother sends nubile nymphs to tempt Danpei and see if he is suitable husband material.A really weird witch ecchi that lacks both concept and humor, so I just don't understand what to like here.Overall Rating: 5/1056.Running Boy: Star Soldier no HimitsuRUNNING Boy スターソルジャーの秘密 [1986-III](Finished 1/1)Tags:SpaceSci-FiThis anime was made by Hudson Soft, which created the "Star Soldier" game. Its designer, Yoichi Takahashi, appeared in a cameo and sang the theme songs.Not translated. Anime features a game, but does it a lot better than Mario anime. Nothing special, but not being a total failure for a game-related anime means something.Overall Rating: 5/1057.Ginga Tansa 2100-nen: Border PlanetGalaxy Investigation 2100: Border Planet銀河探査２１００年ボーダープラネット [1986-III]Tezuka Productions (Finished 1/1)Tags:Adventure, Mystery, Romance, Sci-FiThis work was produced as the ninth special animated piece for the 24-hour television program by Tezuka Production, which took full charge of the original story, screenplay and director. Tezuka Osamu crafts a love story in the time when humans are expanding into space at the end of the 21st century, employing an omnibus form similar to Bradbury's "Martian Chronicle." The story line is similar to "Phoenix: Nostalgia." Leaving the earth after marriage, a woman is left behind in space when her husband suddenly dies of a cosmic disease. These background details were used in "The Phoenix" as well. This time, her friends on the Earth head for space to save the woman who was once everyone's ideal lady. In this special animated piece, Tezuka Osamu emphasizes his basic concepts that "love can save the earth" and "only love can save humans."Yay, Tezuka. Basically, another variant of Ridly Scott's Alien. First contagion with virus on an abandoned spaceship, then looking for virus cure inside an abandoned colony. This movie consists of three parts - first realistic with toned down colors , second bright with cartoonish alien characters, third is bright with normal characters and alien monsters. These three interloping stories erode the concept, and ending is sudden and not that impressive. All that does not allow to call movie a masterpiece.Overall Rating: 6/1058.Sangokushi II: Amakakeru Otoko-tachi三国志II 天翔ける英雄たち [1986-III]Shin-Ei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalActionThe sequel to Sangokushi (1985).As expected, a continuation worthy of original. There's more irrational behavior this time, but overall I have no problem calling it a masterpiece.Overall Rating: 7/1059.Saint SeiyaKnights of the Zodiac聖闘士星矢(セイントセイヤ) [1986-IV]Toei Animation (Dropped 3/114)Tags:ShounenAdventure, Fantasy, Sci-FiIn ancient times, a group of young men devoted their lives to protecting Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom and War. These men were capable of fighting without weapons—a swing of their fist alone was powerful enough to rip the very sky apart and shatter the earth beneath them. These brave heroes became known as Saints, as they could summon up the power of the Cosmos from within themselves.Now, in present day, a new generation of Saints is about to come forth. The young and spirited Seiya is fighting a tough battle for the Sacred Armor of Pegasus, and he isn't about to let anyone get in the way of him and his prize. Six years of hard work and training pay off with his victory and new title as one of Athena's Saints.But Seiya's endeavor doesn't end there. In fact, plenty of perils and dangerous enemies face him and the rest of the Saints throughout the series. What new quests await the heroes of the epic Saint Seiya saga?Mythology zodiac superpower shounen already sounds pretty bad to me. Add wrestling matches here, and you'll understand why I strongly dislike this anime.Overall Rating: 5/1060.Oh! FamilyＯｈ！ファミリー [1986-IV]Knack Productions (Dropped 3/26)Tags:ShoujoComedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of LifeThis story takes place in Florida, USA. The main characters are the lovable members of the Andersons; each one has his or her own different characterstics which conflict and support the others'. By going through many events (meaningful ones as well as weird ones) together, the bond between them grows stronger and tighter.Show is only watchable thanks to dog with semi-human behavior. All this fixation on family looks rather weird as if no one has their own lives.Overall Rating: 5/1061.Anmitsu HimePrincess Anmitsuあんみつ姫 [1986-IV]Pierrot (Dropped 3/51)Tags:ShoujoHistoricalComedyAnmitsu is a tomboy princess living happily at the Amakara Castle. Our story begins when she turns ten years old and gets a home tutor Castella from the Pudding Kingdom as a present from her parents. But they were very wrong when they thought that Anmitsu will finally start studying seriously, because she will frequently escape from the castle looking for some fun, and in the process she will learn a lot about the outside world, make numerous friends and cause endless trouble for the inhabitants of the castle who are supposed to take care of her.Mischievous Kaguya-hime and her British nanny are protagonist, and castle staff usually tries to catch up with them. Not bad comedy, but a bit childish.Overall Rating: 5/1062.Bug tte HoneyBugってハニー [1986-IV]Tokyo Movie Shinsha(Dropped 1/51)Tags:Adventure, ComedyA unique program which adopts the toycom games which are loved by children all over the world into animation.The story starts off by the kidnapping of Genjin Takahashi, a superstar in the world of toycom games. He is kidnapped by Kyura-the-Great, who plots evil in order to rule this game world and become the star himself. Honey Bee, living in this game world and also the girlfriend of Genjin, learns of this and sets out to save him. She goes to the actual world to seek the help of three game geniuses and brings these three toycom buddies to the game world. With their help and desperate struggles, they try to overthrow Kyura-the-Great and rescue Genjin. Can they overcome the numerous roadblocks of hidden tricks and riddles?Only one translated episode found... and that's enough. Some action mess put up together for advertising.Overall Rating: 4/1063.Doteramanドテラマン [1986-IV]Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 3/20)Tags:Comedy, Sci-FiIn a small town of Tokyo there lives a middle-aged man, Suzuki, who spends commonplace days conducting a small business. He is ambitious to become such a celebrity as to appear on the cover page of a popular magazine.One day he happens to discover a mysterious entrance that leads to an alien space. Through it he reaches the world of goblins and attaches control devices to goblins there to make them act at his free command. Capitalizing on those zombies, he grows outrageous and notoriously sets his hand to evil things. Meanwhile two witty pupils, Hajime and his girl friend Mariko, come across a strange alien detective who presents them with Doteraman garments. Wearing those garments, they transform themselves into Doteraman and Doterapink with supernatural strength. Then they challenge the wicked ruler and successfully liberate the poor goblins. They continue to fight in the cause of justice creating excitement and entertainment full of pleasure.Not translated. A lot of chaos with two elementary school looking kids in super suits. It resembles old gag comedy about genie family the most.Overall Rating: 5/1064.Outlandersアウトランダーズ [1986-IV]AIC (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenAdventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi, EcchiIn the midst of a violent invasion of Earth by unknown alien forces, photojournalist Wakatsuki Tetsuya comes across a scantily-clad alien woman, cutting a swath of death through the Terran ranks with her sword. After a chaotic struggle, Tetsuya is knocked unconscious, only to awaken aboard her starship. To his surprise, she turns out to be Kahm, the invaders' princess - and she has picked Tetsuya for a starring role in her upcoming wedding. As the groom...Rather enjoyable action ecchi, but too short and not memorable.Overall Rating: 6/1065.Wanna-Be'sウォナビーズ [1986-IV]AIC(Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Comedy, SportsThis OVA begins with a tag-team battle between the elegant girls of Dream Team and the heavy-face-painted women of Foxy Ladies. Naturally, the Dream Team gets the crap kicked out of them, but not before one of them makes one strong attempt at lifting the 250-pound Foxy lady over her head. The ones to take their place are Eri and Miki of the Wanna-Be's team. Miki and Eri are both just fun girls who want to have fun, but once they begin their new training with the mysterious Kidou Corporation, the same corporation that trained the Dream Team, they discover that there is something deeper behind their training.Female power wrestling with dirty moves and really short form.Overall Rating: 4/1066.Urban Square: Kohaku no Tsuigekiアーバンスクウェア　琥珀の追撃 [1986-IV]Network Kouenji Studio (Finished 1/1)Tags:SeinenAction, MysteryRyou Matsumoto is a screenplay writer that runs into a man and witnesses his murder. Unknown to him, he gets caught up in an illegal antique ring along with a girl he meets named Yuki. In order to survive, he ends up acting out the "action hero" role that he writes in his screenplays.A bit of detective, a bit of action, a bit of humor, but nothing in the result.Overall Rating: 5/1067.Delpower X Bakuhatsu Miracle Genki!デルパワーＸ爆発みらくる元気！ [1986-IV]Big Bang (Finished 1/1)Tags:Mecha, Parody, SchoolAction, Comedy, Sci-FiManami is your typical schoolgirl, despite the odd machines her grandfather is always building. One day, though, an odd evil robot comes to attack Minami's school, and commits the ultimate offense of threatening her friends... and ruining her lunch. Now, she will stop at nothing to return order to the world in her grandpa's newest creation: the mecha Del Power X.Battle suits fight each other with whole school cheering on... it's too stupid even for a parody.Overall Rating: 4/1068.Twinkle Heart: Gingakei made Todokanaiトゥインクルハート銀河系までとどかない [1986-IV]Anime R (Finished 1/1)Tags:SpaceAdventure, ComedyLove, Heaven's greatest treasure went missing and to get it back, the Great God decides to send his two daughters Lemon and Cherry, as well as their governess Berry to find it. However, their search doesn't go so well, mainly because they decide they like it at planet Earth and prefer to work in a hamburger shop (Sic!).In the one-episode OVA, the girls end up searching for the Love treasure on an exotic planet, however they find magical living plushies instead, having to fight their way through them to recover "Essence of Life," which an evil organisation wants to use for nefarious purposes.Another super weird shoujo action with no clear aim whatsoever.Overall Rating: 4/1069.Juusenki L-Gaim I: Pentagona Window + Lady Gavlet重戦機エルガイムI ペンタゴナウインドゥ+レディギャブレー [1986-IV]Sunrise (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMecha, SpaceAction, Adventure, Drama, Sci-FiA recap OVA that portrays the first half of the series Heavy Metal L-Gaim. After the credits, there is a short clip animated for the OVA entitled "Lady Gavlet", which is intended to be comic relief.A bit of additional humor helps, but don't think L-Gaim can be fixed that easily.Overall Rating: 5/1070.Dragon Ball Movie 1: Shen Long no DensetsuDragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies ドラゴンボール神龍の伝説[1986-IV]Toei Animation (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenSuper PowerAction, Adventure, Comedy, FantasyA retelling of Dragon Ball's origins, this is a different version of the meeting of Goku, Bulma, Oolong, and Yamucha. They are all looking for the dragon balls for different reasons when they cross paths with an evil king named Gourmeth, who is also looking for the dragon balls.After three series episodes I was going to give movie a masterpiece, but movie cut majority of humor and focused on new enemies and characters... and that just does not cut if for me.Overall Rating: 6/1071.11-nin Iru!They Were Eleven11人いる! [1986-IV]Magic Bus (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShoujoSpaceAction, Adventure, Drama, Mystery, Romance, Sci-FiAfter the Interstellar Alliance established peace among most of the planets in the universe, they created the Cosmo Academy. The academy is renowned as the most elite school in existence, with its graduates guaranteed virtually any job they desire. However, one can only become a student if they pass the entrance examinations held every three years, making the competition for admission extremely fierce.Lane Tadatos is a Terran who has managed to reach the final stage of examinations. Placed in a group of 10, he is sent to the Esperanza—a ship stranded in orbit. Their final test is to survive 53 days on the ship, without any means of communication with the outside other than an emergency forfeit button. But a serious problem emerges for the examinees when they perform a headcount. There are 11 people aboard the Esperanza, meaning that one of them is an impostor.Only official dub... which guarantees a world of boredoom. Putting 11 people with different outlooks together hardly matters without real uncovering of personalities.Overall Rating: 4/1072.Kyoushoku Soukou GuyverGuyver: Out of Control強殖装甲ガイバー [1986-IV]Movic (Finished 1/1)Tags:Super PowerAction, Horror, Sci-FiThe plot of this OVA is a rough adaptation of the first four chapters of the Guyver manga. It covers the same basic elements of these chapters; Genesis of the guyver, Fight with Vamore, Fight with Guyver 2 and the introduction of Guyver 3. Main differences are the exclusion of Tetsuro and his replacement by Mizuki, The replacement of Lisker with a female Agent "Valcuria", and thus a female Guyver 2. There is also a look at Sho's psychology of how he deals with his situation including a very harsh moment where his friends are assassinated in cold blood.One night, high school student Sho Fukamachi discovers a mysterious metal object. Then in a blinding flash of light, Sho finds that he has accidentally fused with the Guyver, a mecha of mysterious alien design.Now, to save his girlfriend, Mizuki Segawa, along with the entire world, Sho must become the Guyver to fight the Chronos Corporation and their biocreatures, called Zoanoids, who are hell-bent on world domination.The beginning of Guyver franchise. Sorry, I was not inspired by this mecha at all.Overall Rating: 5/1073.Toki no Tabibito: Time Stranger時空[とき]の旅人 Time Stranger [1986-IV]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:Time TravelAction, Adventure, Romance, Sci-FiBased on the novel trilogy of the same name by MAYUMURA Taku (眉村卓), Time Stranger is the story of a bunch of teenagers getting transported back in time through Japan's history, and getting mixed up with samurai shenanigans.A group of students getting into past is not that impressive on its own without character development. Adding a secret order that protects time travel does not make it a lot better. A good start, but needs more complexity.Overall Rating: 6/1074.Hi no Tori: Houou-henPhoenix: Karma Chapter火の鳥　鳳凰編 [1986-IV]Madhouse (Finished 1/1)Tags:HistoricalDrama, FantasyAkanemaru, a skilled sculptor, sets out to find the muse for his masterpiece, the legendary immortal bird Phoenix. However, on his journey, he encounters unexpected trouble when he runs into Gaou, a one-eyed, one-armed bandit. Despite Akanemaru's friendly demeanor, Gaou, who harbors animosity toward the world as a ruthless man, attacks and robs him.As they go their separate ways, the unfortunate incident fades into oblivion. Years later, Akanemaru is forced to accept a new assignment and abandon his dream, while Gaou is stricken with sudden misfortune—a twist of fate that will change both their lives forever. But little do they know that these new circumstances will eventually lead them to cross paths once more: this time as rivals.Set in Japan's Nara period, Hi no Tori: Houou-hen explores the fragile balance between action and consequence as it follows the lives of two men who must inevitably confront the responsibilities of their choices.Story promised a lot till the very end with moralistic Buddhism crap, so no high score possible.Overall Rating: 6/1075.Grey: Digital TargetGREY デジタル・ターゲット [1986-IV]Magic Bus (Finished 1/1)Tags:ShounenMilitaryAction, Drama, Sci-FiGrey is a laconic trooper in a rough, futuristic military system which rewards success in battle with high pay and promotions, but only three precent of troopers live long enough for the final goal - citizenship and the chance for a life above the misery of most of the populace. Grey has managed to keep coming back alive, even earning the nickname Grey Death. But is the society he's fought for worth it?Poor world exposition, just some fights and turnover moment. Average, I expected more.Overall Rating: 5/1076.Tobira wo Akete扉を開けて [1986-IV]Magic Bus (Finished 1/1)Tags:Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-FiIn modern day Tokyo, three university students, Negishi Miyako (Neko-chan), Saiki Haruka, and Yamagishi Keiichiro, have magical powers that make them feel like outcasts. They come together one night and are transported to another world. They open a massive door and Neko finds that she is the Princess Neryulla, who must defeat the evil Duran III to free her people.The third case of time travel isekai already. Lots of weird magic, some ok battles, absolutely stupid ending. Oh, my.Overall Rating: 5/1077.Touch 2: Sayonara no Okurimonoタッチ2 さよならの贈り物 [1986-IV]Group TAC (Finished 1/1)Tags:Drama, Romance, SportsCompilation movie of the second year of the Touch timeline. Plotwise, the movie doesn't have much to do with the series second year.Due to turning point happening at end end of last movie the show becomes more and more like "Nine" with soft romance , sport and less and less comedy. As if one sport of baseball is not enough, another one of gymnastics starts to get heavily focused. It gets only worse for me because of these reasons. It' becomes a very sad sight of eternal losers cheering up each other.Overall Rating: 5/1078.Kinnikuman: Seigi Choujin vs. Senshi Choujinキン肉マン正義超人ＶＳ戦士超人 [1986-IV]Toei Animation (Dropped 0/1)Tags:ShounenAction, Comedy, SportsMeat-kun has been kidnapped by Iron Mask. In order to save Meat-kun, the treasure of Inmora Island is needed. Furthermore, the treasure is hidden in the Seven Story Tower, which is guarded by the brutal Senshi Choujins. When Kinnikuman asks Terryman and the Seigi Choujins to help him, for some reason they all refuse. Alone, Kinnikuman heads to Inmora Island to fight the Senshi Chōjin and is overwhelmed by their great numbers.First non-translated Kinnikuman movie. I am not going to watch it untranslated either given my bad history with the series.Overall Rating: 0/10

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