2015: The Summer of Animes - Part IV: Far From Over

UPDATES:

Kamisama Kiss (Kamisama Hajimemashita) (2012)
Video: Tomoe's Song (Kamisama Kiss Original Soundtrack)

Nanami Mimozono has hit rock bottom and is now broke and homeless due to her fathers gambling debts. When Nanami helps a strange man in the park the night of her eviction, he offers up his home as thanks before disappearing. Because she is homeless Nanami accepts and travels to the mans home better known as the Mikage Shrine, a sacred place of worship. As Nanami enters the shrine and soon meets two Will of the Whisp Spirits, protectors of the shrine, and a fox-like creature named Tomoe. Just as Nanami is about to be thrown out of the shrine, she learns that the one known as "Mikage" was actually a Land God and after bestowing his mark upon her, she has become the new Land God. Nanami must now learn to balance her new life as both a human girl and the Land God despite Tomoe's strong objections and overprotective nature. Nanami must quickly learn how to become a Land God, but as time goes by, will forbidden love between a human and a Yokai bloom between Nanami and Tomoe?  

Why I began the series: The last series I had finished was Spice & Wolf and as usual I went trolling for more shows. I came across Kamisama Kiss by complete accident after finding a picture of Tomoe and marveling at the animation. I was further drawn in by the fact that its first season was only thirteen episodes and it starred J Michael Tatum as Tomoe (*fangirl*). Three days later, it was over.

What I loved about the series: This series was absolutely beautiful - from its story line, to its characters, humor, soundtrack and magnificent animation. Since Kamisama Kiss is a shoujo anime, an anime geared for female viewers, it's no surprise that I fell hard and fast for Tomoe. Between the fact that he was voiced by my one of my favorite anime voice actors of all time, J Michael Tatum, and the fact that Tomoe in general is ridiculously gorgeous I was caught early on. But more than Tomoe, I especially loved Nanami as a character - a strong, independent yet quirky girl who I identified with personally on many levels. Characters like Nanami are rare for animes, so to find a female protagonist who was dependent on her male counterpart but also an incredibly confident anfd strong individual female was very refreshing. The series as a whole was just stunning.

What I didn't like about the series: (*Crickets*)

This series has it all. Simply put, Kamisama Kiss is a visual beauty, and auditory pleasure and a beautiful story of life and love.

Kamisama Kiss 2 (Kamisama Hajimemashita 2) (2015)
Video: Kamisama Kiss 2 Original Opening

The saga continues! I was thrilled to see that a second season of Kamisama Kiss had already been English dubbed and released so I wouldn't have to agonize over a long wait to continue. In Season two Nanami continues to learn how to balance her new life as the new Land God, while simultaneously battling dark forces and her own growing feelings for Tomoe. Tomoe has always been at Nanami's side and though love between a Yokai and a human is forbidden, what are Tomoe's true feelings for Nanami?

Why I began the series: Season one had ended, and I was suffering from the typical anime "void". Immediately after finishing season one I took to the internet and discovered the second season was already dubbed and available, and with the ending of season one left wide open, I was anxious to see where the story would go. And I was incredibly pleased by the results.

What I loved about the series: Though not as good as the original season, Kamisama Kiss 2 was equally well done, taking everything I loved about season one and elevating it to the next level.

What I didn't like about the series: The only thing I didn't enjoy about Kamisama Kiss 2 was its ending. Like season one it was left completely open, which partly made me happy as the story practically begs to be continued and a third season will be coming soon in 2016, but also incredibly frustrated by the fact that Nanami and Tomoe seemed to have gotten nowhere in the romance aspect of the series. A few things were said and done that elevated the romance, but not enough happened for me to be fully satisfied with where things were left off. I can only imagine and hope for what will happen in season three regarding Nanami and Tomoe's romance.

Kamisama Kiss have quickly become one of my favorite animes to date, and I cannot wait for season three. 2016 cannot come fast enough.

Charlotte (2015)
Video: Charlotte Original Opening & Ending

Yuu Otosaka has always been different, not because of his looks or sarcastic personality, but because he has the ability to temporarily posses others. When Yuu plans to use this ability to cheat in the upcoming high school entrance exams he meets a girl named Nao, who claims she can prove he is a both a cheater and wielder of an ability. Backed into a corner, Yuu confesses and is stunned to learn that Nao has a special ability of her own. Nao then informs Yuu that he has already been enrolled in Hoshinoumi Academy and is now a member of the Student Council where he will work alongside others who have these abilities. Yuu has no choice - he must attend the Academy and work with the Student Council, but as they work to find other ability wielders, what dark secrets about these abilities and their wielders will be uncovered?

Why I began the series: I once again was looking for an anime that was more recent, and I came across the above image for Charlotte. I thought it was beautiful and went searching for what it belonged to, thus leading me to Charlotte.

What I loved about the series: Charlotte is much more than it appears. At first glance I thought it another anime with another male high school protagonist complaining about how much he hates life, but that turned out to not be the case. The characters were spunky and memorable and the overall animation was beautiful. But the best thing about Charlotte was its soundtrack. Mainly made up of vocal tracks by a band focused on throughout the series (ZHEIND) and a few instrumental tracks, the Charlotte soundtrack is downright gorgeous. A full CD of the soundtrack is set to be released in November and I cannot wait to get my hands on it.

What I didn't like about the series: I have only small complaints about the series a whole, the main one being the plot which at times seemed choppy and disconnected. The other thing that did not live up to my expectations was the series ending. While moving it left me somewhat unsatisfied and confused, though it was left wide open which highly suggests a second season as season ones ending left many questions unanswered.

"Looking up high, from a still tower. Wondering how it would feel if I fall down.
Was it a dream? I saw deep red.
Chasing, for whats fallin'.
Always yearning, don't know what but the beauty I really want, may seem to be awkward to someones eyes." - ZHEIND

Sword Art Online II (2015)
Video: SAO II: Gun Gale Online Original Opening

It's been a year since Kirito, Ausuna and other surviving players escaped the death game known as Sword Art Online (SAO). Life has started to return to normal as survivors of SAO attend school, rehab and continue to readjust to life in the real world. When Kirito is suddenly contacted by an old acquaintance from the government, his peaceful life comes to a halt. Kirito is then asked a very special request: investigate recent deaths that have taken place in another VRMMOPG called Gun Gale Online. Though paid for his services, Kirito becomes tasked with finding the killer in GGO called "Death Gun" and discovering how these people were killed in real life while logged in game. The painful memories of SAO are finally starting to fade, but by diving back into the virtual world, will Kirito be able to face his painful past and look death in the face for a second time? 

Why I began the series: Sword Art Online was my first anime, so naturally I was highly anticipating its second season. I was so impatient, that I watched the second season with English subtitles long before the English dub version was broadcast, so I now have seen Sword Art Online twice.

What I loved about the series: Made up of two different arcs, Sword Art Online II was a great runner up to its original season. Arc one was filled with excitement, great battles and some beautiful animation (especially found in fight scenes and scenes where Kirito explores with his GGO avatar). Arc two, which focuses on an entirely different story, was equally as good with lots of well done emotional scenes. I loved that arc one was dedicated to Kirito while arc two was given entirely to Asuna, and each arc showed its respective characters struggle with both external and internal conflicts in the real and virtual worlds. Like its original season, the series additionally had a heartbreaking soundtrack and familiar voices along with some new for the English dub version.

What I didn't like about the series: Many people complain that Sword Art Online II is dull and boring compared to its original season, and I somewhat have to agree. A few episodes are low on action, but instead they focus on the emotional struggle the characters face and are proof that a gun battle is not necessary to hold ones attention. The only other thing I particularly didn't like is not a bash on the series at all, but the fact that I had to wait a whole week for the next episode. I am very impatient when it comes to my anime, even when I know what is going to happen in the next episode.

Sword Art Online will always be my first anime: the one that started it all. I'm in no way upset that SAO introduced me to the world of anime, but with its second season now over, I once again impatiently wait for season three in 2016 and have that familiar "empty void" feeling.

Soul Eater (2008-2009)
Video: Soul Eater Original Opening

Death himself runs a school, and it is know as Death Weapon Meister Academy (DWMA). The academy trains two types of students - those who have the ability to transform into weapons known as scythes, and those who can wield these weapons called meisters. Together they have one purpose: to collect Kishin souls. Once a meister and their scythe collects ninety-nine souls plus the soul of a witch, the scythe is granted the power to become a Death Scythe and Meister and Scythe will become stronger than they could ever imagine. Partners Maka and Soul, Black Star and Tsubaki and Death the Kid and Liz/Patty Thompson all seek to achieve this goal, but along their intertwining paths Death has some very special assignments that will not only test their abilities but also test how much they are willing to put their own lives in each others hands.

Why I began the series: A friend recently recommended Soul Eater, and since I became ill this past week, I took to Netflix.

What I loved about the series: Soul Eater is truly a weird yet brilliant series. Its oddities are what made it so enjoyable, and its voice actors, plot and characters are what make it so wonderful. Almost every single voice actor in Soul Eater I had already come across in a previous anime, so I was glad to see and pick out various favorites and other anime characters they'd voiced. The plot was smart, intense and was very connected from episode to episode, leaving me with few questions about what had either happened or what may happen in the next episode. But the greatest thing about Soul Eater was its characters. Besides its main cast of meisters and scythes I took an interest in many secondary characters who became personal favorites. including Crona, Professor Stein, Medusa, Scythe and Giriko. More random than not, the other thing I loved about the series were the previews for the "next episode". Something about them was both hysterical and incredibly entertaining while always baiting me to watch more.

What I didn't like about the series: The only thing about Soul Eater that I found from the start and still stick by, is that fact that the series itself is just plain weird. My prime example of this being that I never got used to the laughing son and grinning moon dripping blood. Take what you will from that.

This series was like nothing I had ever seen before, and I'm glad I finally got around to hopping on the Soul Eater bandwagon.

The Devil Is A Part Timer (2013)
Video: The Devil Is A Part Timer Original Opening

What would you say if I told you the devil himself lives among us and has a part time job? When the Demon Lord Satan and his head general Alciel are attacked by "The Hero" in their realm, they seek escape in the human world. The two must learn to live in the human world and abide by human ways, despite their abilities to do magic and transform into demonic beings. Lord Satan himself decides to get a part time job at the local McRonald's fast-food restaurant while Alciel shops, cooks and cleans the apartment they share. The devil and his subordinate are finally starting to comfortably adjust to human life, but when someone unexpectedly shows up, will they be able to continue leading their peaceful, human lives or be destroyed?

Why I began this series: I feel I've established what I can call my "typical why I began this series"process: Watch an episode, move on, give it another try, done.

What I loved about this series: This anime was so refreshing. Though it is nothing incredibly remarkable, the series is great in the fact that it is completely silly and a short series that I could just laugh at. Between the characters and the dialogue I found myself often snickering or laughing at every silly situation, especially at the snide comments made by certain characters and old school language used by Satan and Alciel. The other thing I loved about this series, which I don't find with every series, was its ending. The last few episodes were both exciting and wrapped the series up nicely while leaving large possibility for a second season and not leaving me lost in the dark awaiting more. The Devil Is A Part Timer is a series that I didn't expect to like, but it is unlike any anime I've seen before and there's just something special about it.

What I didn't like about the series: My only big complaint is that this series has very little in the way of plot. There are a few original plot points that are examined throughout its thirteen episodes, but besides these points the story just continues until something else happens that opens the door for another plot point. Because of this, certain characters also sometimes feel out of place or neglected both within the scope of the story and character development. Had the series dove a little deeper into these, I think it would have been an even better series than it already is.

Like Soul Eater, The Devil Is A Part Timer is a very different anime. While a more casual, silly and ridiculous anime, The Devil Is A Part Timer is still an anime worth watching.

SERIES STILL IN PROGRESS:

• Kimi ni Todoke (English subbed) (2009-2011)
• Sakurasou no pet Nakanono (English subbed) (2012-2013)
• Gurren Lagann (2007)
• Hyouka (English subbed) (2012)

To date I have now seen seventeen different animes, including some with various seasons. Though my time is limited I continue to delve into the worlds of anime and am excited to see where they will lead me and what they will lead me to.

Love's Labor Lost - The Stratford Shakespeare Festivals "Diamond in the Rough" Production

Above (left to right): Andrew Robinson as Longaville, Mika Shara as Berowne, Sanjay Talwar as King Ferdinand of Navarre & Thomas Olajide as Dumaine

Above (left to right): Sarah Afful as Rosaline, Tiffany Claire Martin as Katherine, Ruby Joy as The Princess of France, Ijeoma Emesowum as Maria and their servants

Friends Berowne, Ferdinand, Dumaine and Longaville have all sworn an oath to abstain from the company of women and devote themselves to their studies for the next three years. Everyone accepts this arrangement, though Berowne is hesitant from the beginning if they will be able to do it. Soon after their oath is taken four women, led by the Princess of France, arrive to speak with King Ferdinand who reluctantly agrees to meet with them. Ferdinand instantly falls in love with the Princess, as his fellow scholars quickly fall for her ladies. They've sworn off women, but with the presence of these fine ladies, will they be able to ultimately fulfill the oath they've sworn to each other?

Love's Labor Lost is a Shakespeare play that I honestly know very little about. When it comes to me and Shakespeare I've usually read the play or at least know the significant quotes from it, but this was not the case with Love's Labor Lost. The only thing I knew was that some consider Love's Labor Lost to be the prequel to Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing (also known as Love's Labor Won), so I went into this production completely open and raw. Because of this, I think I was able to enjoy and understand more about the play then what I could read in a book. The cast was strong overall, though two performances particularly stood out. The first was Mike Shara as Berowne, whose playfulness and great ease at comedy made him flourish from beginning to end. Shara also had one, if not the best, monologue on the entire show and his delivery of it left my breathless and slightly teary. Having seen Shara is various Stratford productions, I strongly believe him to be an actor perfectly fit for Shakespearean comedies. The other performance that somewhat surprised but delighted me was that of Gabriel Long as Moth. Remembering him from last years production and personal favorite A Midsummer Nights Dream, I thought Long would mainly be on stage along for the ride with not much in the way of lines. I was very wrong, as Long had a substantial amount of text and was on stage with other actors for a majority of the play. Longs performance is a wonderful reminder that anyone can do Shakespeare no matter their age.

This production used traditional settings as well as costumes from the time period. For a play such as Love's Labor Lost I believe it would be difficult to set the play in a new setting without detracting from the text and the message the play ultimately leaves us with. This said, I loved seeing the cast in authentic costumes and looking down on each other from various balconies and staircases. But perhaps the greatest question of the play is what is the message? While much of it can be left up to interpretation, I believe the message can be summed up in one line from Berowne's significant monologue in Act IV: "Let us once lose our oaths to find ourselves, or else we lose ourselves to keep our oaths."(Berowne)

Keeping our promises is important, but to lose ourselves in the process is something far worse than breaking those promises.

Love's Labor Lost was a very refreshing production within Stratfords 2015 season. A play about the power of words, Love's Labor Lost is a production not to be missed this summer at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival.

     

Stratford Shakespeare Festivals Love's Labor Lost Trailer

For photos and videos of this production, visit:

http://www.stratfordfestival.ca/WhatsOn/PlaysAndEvents/Production/Loves-Labours-Lost and click on Videos & Photos

For more information about The Stratford Shakespeare Festival, visit:

http://www.stratfordfestival.ca/

***NEXT REVIEW:***

She Stoops to Conquer

2015: The Summer of Animes - Part 3

It never stops (even when summer is over and school has once again begun).

UPDATES:
(Updates on finished anime series)

1. Blue Exorcist (Ao no exorcist) (2011)
Video: Blue Exorcist Opening

Blue Exorcist follows brothers Rin and Yukkio Okumara who both strive to one day become exorcists like their father. Younger brother Yuukio studies hard to make this dream a reality while older brother Rin finds himself in trouble more often than not. But everything changes when Rin learns a terrifying and dark secret: he is the son of Satan. After learning that he is a demon, Rin's father is killed and he vows to avenge his father's death by becoming an exorcist and one day defeating Satan once and for all. Learning that his brother Yukkio is already an exorcist of high ranking at a private academy, Rin is taken in immediately to begin his exorcist training under his brothers strict watch. Becoming an exorcist is the ultimate dream, but in the process, will Rin lose everything he has left?

Why I began this series: The idea of a demon wanting to destroy his father Satan seemed like an amazing concept, and I finally finished this series while waiting out my six hour layover in the Frankfurt, Germany airport on the way to Graz!

What I loved about the series: Much of the series I enjoyed. Many of the characters were memorable, the original concept intrigued me beyond belief and I can't pass up any anime that stars two of my three favorite anime voice actors, Bryce Pappenbrook and Johnny Young Bosh.

What I didn't like about the series: Sadly, much of the series was filler and boring. It started strong with Rin learning the truth and beginning his training at the academy, but much of the series that followed made the story take a backseat. It wasn't until the last few episodes that the original excitement I got from Blue Exorcist, and when that excitement was back I was thrilled. Some of the characters seemed dull and some plot points didn't really add anything to the overall arc of the series.

Blue Excorcist seems to be either a "love it or hate it" anime. While I did enjoy it, the series didn't really do anything for me and therefore isn't high on my recommending anime list. Nevertheless, Blue Exorcists is a good anime for any fan.

2. Toradora (2008-2009)
Video: Toradora Trailer (English Dub)

Misunderstood high school student Ryuji Takasu has always been labeled as a delinquent due to his tough appearance, while in actuality he is a soft-hearted clean freak. When Ryuji one day accidentally bumps into fellow classmate Taiga Aisaka, known for her small size, violent temper and harsh attitude, his life takes a turn. Upon discovering a love letter in his schoolbag addressed to his best friend Yusaku from Taiga, he suddenly sees Taiga coming through his window with a sword. Tiaga soon realizes that the envelope containing the letter was empty all along, and reluctantly tells Ryuji of her feelings for Yusaku. While Ryuji can't believe that Taiga could be in love with anyone, Taiga calls him out on his obvious feelings towards her best friend Minori. Ryuji and Taiga then make a deal to help each other become closer to their respective love interests and do whatever is necessary to find out how they feel about in return, but in the process will something more than friendship bloom between them?

Why I began this series: Between looking for something to fill the void after Clannad & Clannad: After Story and researching various romance animes, I came across Toradora.

What I loved about the series: Toradora is a great anime all the way around. The voice cast for the English dub is perfect and all the voices really fit the characters animation. I especially loved Toradora because of how simple and somewhat innocent the story line is. High school, teenage love can be very hard to do right, sometimes being overdone to the point of annoying or really, really boring. Toradora shows EXACTLY what being in love at a young age is all about.

What I didn't like about the series: The only thing about Toradora that stuck out was one character: Ami Kawashima. She doesn't appear to have any real purpose in the series, other than causing, escalating or creating drama.

While many people may not know Toradora, it is an anime that I would highly recommend to anyone. A very down to earth, honest romance anime about being in love.

3. AngelBeats (2010)
Video: AngelBeats Opening

What happens when you die? For Yuzuro Otonashi it all begins as a jumbled mess of confusion. Having recently passed away, Yuzuro awakens to find himself in a strange place and does not remember anything about what happened to him or who he is. Soon after, he learns that he is in fact dead and now a member of the SSS, a squad dedicated to fighting and destroying a mysterious girl named Angel. But Otonashi has another purpose: making peace and moving on. Once he is able to do this, he will be reborn into the world as another creature. Angel is the enemy, but will fighting and defeating her be the right path to ultimate peace?

Why I began this series: I watched AngelBeats purely because of the fan following it has. It looked interesting from the start so I gave it a try.

What I loved about the series: A few things about AngelBeats particularly stood out in a good way for me. The first was the series opening and ending themes: stunning. Second was the fact that the English dubbed cast was basically the entire cast that dubbed another favorite anime of mine, Clannad and Clannad: After Story. Third was the cast of secondary characters, who were far superior to the three leads in development, entertainment and emotional connection. The secondary characters were not only my favorites of the entire series but also had some of the best and most emotional, beautiful scenes.

What I didn't like about the series: Much of this series didn't speak to me. Sadly, I was expecting something better than what I got. Some tears were shed though, make no mistake.

If there was one thing to say about AngelBeats, it's that the series was completely not what I expected, and that's what makes it so unique.

4. Ouran High School Host Club (2006)
Video: Ouran High School Host Club Opening

Haruhi Fujioka has just been accepted into Ouran High School Academy, an elite institution for educating children from filthy rich families. Though a commoner, Haruhi enters Ouran hoping to make a fresh start until she accidentally finds Ourans Host Club. Infamous to entertaining Ouran young ladies, Haruhi attempts to escape the club but accidentally breaks an expensive vase belonging to the club. To pay off her debt, Haruhi is forced to become a member of the Host Club under the eye of the Host Club King, Tamaki Suoh. Haruhi accepts this arrangement until Tamaki discovers that though her appearance is manly, Haruhi is actually a girl. Despite this fact, Harihu agrees to dress and act like a boy in order to pay back the club, which Tamaki reluctantly allows. Until her debt is paid, Haruhi must entertain the ladies of Ouran who "have to much time on their hands" while hiding the secret of her true gender.
"The Ouran High School Host Club will be waiting for you. We'll see you then!"

Why I began the series: I was surfing Netflix when I originally found Ouran, and I got halfway through episode one before I turned it off. I recently decided to give it another chance, and now, I've seen it all.

What I loved about the series: This series really surprised me. At the start I was expecting to absolutely hate it, but that ended up not being the case - I loved it. Though it does center around "entertaining" young ladies, the series did not retract to the the usual Japaneses harem stereotypes and I was not consistently flashed with boobs or panty shots (which I greatly appreciated). But perhaps the best part of the Host Club are the Hosts themselves. A quick breakdown:

Tamaki Suoh - "The Prince Charming type" aka King of the Host Club; most requested of all Hosts
Kyouya Ootari - "The Cool type"; Vice President, in charge of Host activities and funds
Mitskuni "Honey" Haninozuka - "The Cute type"; loves cute things and cake
Takashi "Mori" Morinozuka - "Strong & Silent type"; cannot be seen without Honey-sempi
Karou & Hikaru Hitachiin - "Brotherly Love type"; twins who have never been apart
(Haruhi Fujioka - "The Natural type")

What I didn't like about the series: I loved everything about the series, overall very well done.

Ouran has become one of my favorites. Long live The Host Club!!!

5. Seraph of the End (Owari no Seraph) (2014)
Video: Seraph of the End Opening

A mysterious virus one day kills everyone over the age of thirteen and a swarm of vampires descend on the world. Granted safety in exchange for their blood, the surviving children become livestock for the vampires who now rule the Earth. Yu and Mika both dream of escaping from the vampires and venturing to the outside world, even though they may die from the virus upon reaching it, and one day that dream becomes reality. Yu, Mika and their family attempt to escape but are met by a Noble Vampire who kills the entire family and Mika while Yu escapes to the outside. Having just set foot in the outside world, Yu meets Commander Guren, a man in charge of various squads dedicated to eliminating the vampires and reclaiming the world for the humans. Yu pleads to train under him and kill all the vampires who have destroyed his life and Guren accepts. Yu vows to destroy all vampires, but due to unforeseen circumstances, will that vow come back to bite him?  

Why I began the series: I once again went searching for animes, this time looking for something more recent. I found Seraph of the End, which was currently still airing episodes weekly with the English dub, and I dove in.

What I loved about the series:
Initial thought after finishing Episode 1: "FINALLY, AN ANIME ABOUT VAMPIRES THAT IS OVERLY DRAMATIC, OVERLY SEXUAL OR JUST PLAIN STUPID". But really though,
Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign turned out to be way better than I expected. The characters are memorable and the animation (done by FUNimation) is beautiful. Also, Mika is pretty amazing.

What I didn't like about the series: The only thing that kept Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign from being absolutely amazing was the fact that it often had plot holes. While I'm sure everything is explained within the manga (which I am currently reading now), the series at times had me very confused as to how certain things happened, why and what impact they had on the current or future situation. Hopefully by reading the manga, things will get cleared up. The other thing about the series that I particularly did not enjoy was some the voices selected for the dub, which for me is unusual.

Season 1 of Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign was far better than I would have thought, and now I anxiously await for the Season 2 Dub being released in October.

6. Spice & Wolf (2008)
Videos: Spice & Wolf Opening 1 & 2

Craft Lawrence has always been a traveling merchant weighing his gains and loses with the utmost care, for both his business and everyday life. When Lawrence one night discovers a naked woman with a wolfs ears and tail sleeping in his cart, he suddenly remembers legends pertaining to such a creature, known as Holo the Wise Wolf. After proving that she is indeed the Goddess Holo the Wise Wolf, Holo tells Lawrence that she desires nothing more than to return home to the lands of the north. Lawrence reluctantly agrees to accompany Holo while upholding his business as a traveling merchant, but as the two travel, what secrets will Holo and Lawrence learn about themselves and the nature of business?

Why I began the series: I honestly don't know how I cam to find Spice & Wolf. I'm sure it had something to do with the fact that I was, and am still on, a J. Michael Tatum binge.

What I loved about the series: My enjoyment of the entire series came from its two leading voice actors: J. Michael Tatum as Lawrence & Brina Palecia as Holo. The two not only do various and fabulous anime voice work together, but also provide the voices for another favorite anime of mine, Black Butler (voices of Ciel Phantomhive & Sebastian Michaelis). The animation for Spice & Wolf is also stunning, as can be seen in both its opening themes.

What I didn't like about the series: The series focused more on the "economics" side than the romance I was initially expecting, but although this was the case, it did not detract from the flow of the series. The other thing I didn't like about the series was its ending, as it somehow felt unfinished.

Spice & Wolf was another series that I found quite unexpected and very cute. It also has a decent fan following and many hope that there will someday be a Season 2. If that day ever comes, I'm sure to be watching.

SERIES STILL IN PROGRESS:
(Because this list is somewhat longer than usual, I will not be including any images, videos or information about where I am in each series)

• Sword Art Online - Season 2 (Almost done airing with English dub) (2015)
• Gurren Lagann (2007)
• Kimi ni Todoke (English subbed) (2009-2011)
• Sakurasou No Pet Nakanono (English subbed) (2012-2013)
• Hyouka (English subbed) (2012)
• Charlotte (English subbed) (2015)
• (The Devil is A Part Timer) (2013)

The list continues to grow, and although school has resumed, I look forward to watching and reviewing more and more anime!

 

Oedipus Rex - "How dreadful the knowledge of truth can be, when there's no help in truth."

Above: Gord Rand as Oedipus

Are we all blind to our past? 

Do we really know who we are? 

Can we escape our fate, or are we forever destined to travel the path it has chosen for us?

The city of Thebes is in turmoil. Oedipus, the King of Thebes, promises to help his citizens however he can but when brother-in-law Creon tells him that Thebes is in such a state due to the mysterious murder of the former King Laius, Oedipus vows to find, capture and kill the murderer to avenge the Gods and end the plague within Thebes. Oedipus will do whatever it takes to uncover the truth, and summons the prophet Teiresias for help in the matter. When Teiresias tells Oedipus to abandon his search and that Oedipus himself is the killer, Oedipus becomes enraged and vows to continue his search but to find the culprit, what will Oedipus discover about himself and his ultimate fate?

I've read Oedipus Rex for various English and Mythology classes, so I was thrilled to see Sophocles' masterpiece on stage for the first time and I was in no way disappointed. Led by Gord Rand as the fated King Oedipus, this Stratford Shakespeare Festival's production was easily my favorite of the season due to its intriguing subject matter with modern twists and the intense deliveries given by the entire cast from beginning to end.

Oedipus is a tricky character, thus he requires an actor who is willing to take any and every risk. Gord Rand was perfect to play the fated king as he was willing to do this and more. Rands commitment was far beyond what I ever would have expected, and because of this, his entire performance was utterly mesmerizing. From giving monologues atop tables to ending the play on stage butt naked for a solid amount of time, Rands Oedipus is nothing short of magnificent. Alongside and equally as important and wonderful was Yanna McIntosh as Oedipus' wife and voice of reason, Jocasta. Though Jocasta does not have much in the play, McIntoshs performance was quite powerful and played off of Rands wonderfully. I have always believed that actors are either good at comedy or tragedy and on rare occasion I'll find one that can do both, suffice to say after seeing McIntosh in various Stratford productions she flourishes in tragedy. But perhaps my favorite performance of the night was given by Nigel Bennett as the blind prophet Teiresias. On stage for no more than ten minutes in the role, Bennett had me in the palm of his hand from the moment he entered the stage. His lines were incredibly powerful and the way he simply would sit silently in his chair was extraordinary. This trio along with perhaps the strongest ensemble cast I have ever seen is enough reason alone to see this revolutionary production of Oedipus Rex.

The plays modern setting and minimalist set also added to the dark undertones of the tragedy. Upon first entering the theater and seeing the set, the first thing that came to mind was something like a concentration camp: tall posts with fog horns, one table and rolling chair and a set of collapsible chairs all around the stage. The only other piece used for the production was a microphone where the chorus took turns giving speeches to the masses of Thebes. Setting this production in modern times was extremely smart and gave new life to the famous Sophocles work. Similar to its set all costumes, with the exception of Jocasta and the prophet Tiresias, were either black, dark or light gray, showing a majority of the plays symbolism along with its gloomy outlook.

Everything about this production was simply incredible. It is truly a hidden gem among Stratfords 2015 season. 

"How dreadful the knowledge of the truth can be, when there's no help in truth."      

Stratford Shakespeare Festivals Oedipus Rex Trailer

For photos and videos of this production, visit:

http://www.stratfordfestival.ca/WhatsOn/PlaysAndEvents/Production/Oedipus-Rex and click on Videos & Photos

For more information about the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, visit:

http://www.stratfordfestival.ca/

***NEXT REVIEW:***

Love's Labor Lost

The Stratford Festival Presents Unknown Shakespearean Drama 'The Adventures of Pericles'

Above: Evan Builing as Pericles, Prince of Tyre

Ever heard of Pericles? Most probably haven't. Despite its obscurity, Stratford's 2015 production of Shakespeare's The Adventures of Pericles brings this unknown masterpiece to light as an adventure centered around  love, loss and family.

Pericles, Prince of Tyre has arrived in a distant land seeking the hand of a young maiden. Before he can win her, her father the King presents him with a riddle which he either must solve or pay the cost with his life. Pericles accepts the challenge and is appalled when he unearths the King's secret incest with his own daughter. Discovering that the King will go to any length to keep his secrets hidden, Pericles flees and sets sail for home but soon after a storm comes and carries him away to other lands. Now alone and lost in the world, Pericles must find his way home while battling constant storms upon the sea and in his own heart. 

After learning that festival superstar and personal favorite of mine Evan Builing would lead the charge of this production as the daring and kindhearted Pericles, I became instantly excited. I had heard of the play before but knew nothing about it and was incredibly interested in how the play would be presented.  Builing's commanding presence and moving performance as Prince Pericles was wonderful, inviting the audience into a whole new world. Trying to compare Builing's performance this season with his incredible performance last season as Edgar in King Lear along with other Shakespearean roles is simply impossible, showing Builing's incredible versatility and love of Shakespeare. Builing's portrayal of Pericles is a performance not to be missed and he consonantly proves a force to be reckoned with both in and outside Shakespeare. Alongside Builing was Deborah Hay, playing double roles as Pericles' wife and daughter. I was at first hesitant of her playing both roles but I found that having Hay portray both was a very smart idea, and because of this the ending scene with Hay and Builing was especially beautiful and moving. These two alongside a wonderful ensemble of characters made The Adventure of Pericles a joy to watch.

Other aspects of this production were incredibly (something) but greatly enhanced the storytelling needed to pull off the production. No big sets were really used but instead only small pieces and visual effects to show the change over time or a storm at sea. Director and Stratford actor Scott Wentworth took these and many other risks in the staging of The Adventures of Pericles and every single one paid off. Elaborate scenes and flashy costumes do not always make the play, but instead it is the actors themselves, the characters they portray and their overall connection to the audience as storytellers.

Pericles has everything - adventure, drama, joy, agony, loss, love and the list goes on. Though not one of William Shakespeares more prominent works, The Adventures of Pericles proves itself to be a story about life and how those in our life can make all the difference.   

Stratford Shakespeare Festival's The Adventures of Pericles Trailer

For photos and videos of this production, visit:

http://www.stratfordfestival.ca/OnStage/productions.aspx?id=29566&prodid=57767 

OR visit the Stratford Festival YouTube Channel

For more information about the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, visit:

http://www.stratfordfestival.ca/

***NEXT REVIEW:***
Oedipus Rex

Far From the Fall - A Review of 'Fallen Angel'

Before I begin my final review, I would like to thank everyone who has kept up, read or even clicked on these reviews! I'm sure over the course of the next few months this black hole with grow deeper and I hope to continue reviewing as much as possible. 

FINAL REVIEW!

Fallen Angel

Above & Below: The Aiba Brothers - Tsubasa (Kazuki), Riku (Takuya) and Umi (Takumi)

As with Sign, I will not be presenting a full synopsis of Fallen Angel as it is a highly complicated plot to try and explain. If you are interesting from the short synopsis below, check out the series itself which will be linked at the end of this review!

Synopsis:

Umi Aiba has always been different. Sent away by his mother, Umi only knows one thing: he must find his older brothers Riku and Tsubasa. When Tsubasa, a mathematical genius and Riku, a University student suddenly find Umi at their door claiming to be their younger brother everything about their lives change. Claiming to be sent away from a field hospital by their mother, a well known surgeon, and was told to find his older brothers who are to look after and protect him. Weary of his story but wanting to help, Tsubasa and Riku agree to take Umi in but as time goes by, mysterious family secrets are uncovered, dark truths come to light and the ties of brotherhood and family may forever be broken.

REVIEW

The Cast:

Umi Aiba - Kitamura Takumi

Riku Aiba - Uehara Takuya

Tsubasa Aiba - Kato Kazuki

Kuma - Chiba Yudai

Hikaru Kitahara - Sasaki Yoshihide

Kondo - Nakagauchi Masataka

So Kiryuu - Baba Toru

Casting & Individual Performances:

Another small cast like Sign, Fallen Angel's cast was very well chosen and presented in the nine episode drama. Though not as important to the plot as one might think the main protagonist, Umi played by Kitamura Takumi, was very well done. Kitamura's innocence and portrayal of the conflicted and confused Umi held my attention from the start and his character took the series in a variety of directions I was not mentally or emotionally prepared for. Alongside Kitamura, Uehara Takuya as Riku and Kato Kazuki as Tsubasa made great companions and foils to Umi. It should come as no surprise that Takuya was once again fabulous, this time as a somewhat bad boy and smart mouth. Seeing Takuya play a character so unlike those he has played before was very refreshing and his overall performance as the laid back brother immensely lightened up the series from its continuous dark, dramatic and intense tones. Kato Kazuki as Tsubasa also proved a powerful performance for a variety of reasons I can't go into due to possible spoilers. Perhaps the true star of Fallen Angel is Chiba Yudai's performance as the series villain, Kuma. From the first moment he came on screen Yudai proved himself a force to be reckoned with as a great villain with a purpose. I often find myself more interested in the villains more than the leads because of their motives and purposes for their actions, and without giving too much away, Yudai gave great life and reason to the character known as Kuma. The final performance that stood out was that of Hikaru Kitahara as Sasaki Yoshihide. An "interesting" character to say the least, Kitahara's character choices made great impacts on the series despite his small amount of screen time. From its leads to supporting characters the entire cast of Fallen Angel was very powerful and left a lasting impression on me once I had finished the series.  

Other Thoughts:

This series evoked more roller coaster emotions out of me than I ever would have expected. At various times I found myself screaming at the screen (as all those who fall deep into a TV series will understand) and there were many times I couldn't contain my tears. The end of the series was most shocking to me, and though it ended sadder then I would have liked or expected, I'm not sure how else it would have ended had it not done so in the way it did. If you're looking for an intense, emotional series - this is it. 

Final Thoughts:

Interested in learning more about Fallen Angel? GO WATCH IT! I highly recommend it.

The entire series of Fallen Angel can be found on YouTube at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vk8Izz3hz1Q&list=PLzolcttNA5TkSr8D4yFLQEPsjYnz6ZIar

Fallen Angel Theme - The World (Honey L Days)

Above: Uehara Takuya as Riku (*SWOON*)