Speed Grapher [Archive] - Anime Academy Lounge

Tremolo

04-09-2005, 06:46 PM

Another new anime season, another new GONZO show. But so far Speed Grapher doesn't seem to be your usual throwaway GONZO stuff. I've been looking forward to this since the official website launched, and judging from this first episode it hasn't disappointed.

Set more than 10 years have passed since the bubble economy ended, the world has become polarised into rich and poor and Japan is no exception. Tokyo has become a decadent city of pleasure. We meet Saiga, a photo journalist who literally loves nothing better than to take pictures and is very critical of the work of others, often viewing life as one big oppurtunity for a good picture. A detective has confiscated his passport, forcing him to stay in Japan and, after a series of deaths (including one highly memorable scene featuring a rather macabre mutant assassin) this leads to him being asked to cover a secret society of sorts, the "Roppongi Club" (think Eyes Wide Shut, only less graphic). Without spoiling, let me just say that the plot starts to thicken...

The animation is generally solid and fluid, and whilst the character designs aren't the most detailed they do the job and are rather distinctive. There's hardly any noticeable 3D animation used either, which is a definite plus in my eyes.

However, it's definitely not aimed at a young audience, thanks to its rather dark tone, somewhat gory and disturbing moments and rather...strange sexual themes. But it is very good - I was never bored and await the next episode with anticipation. It's also nicely different to the norm, and features an interesting bunch of slightly strange characters that I hope are expanded upon later.

Fans of darker anime should check this out as it manages to be "adult" without resorting to gratuitous tits 'n gore. Very good stuff so far, and hopefully a highlight of the spring season.

Elric

04-10-2005, 06:59 AM

Well im no big Gonzo fan, but I found the anime interesting so far (since you bragged about the anticipation so much). Acually I thought animation wise; it's certainly not Gonzos best work at least on the chracters, but looks like instead of super eye candy; it might be more focused on content. Lets see what happens in the future with this series.

PsychoSaiya-jin

04-10-2005, 07:33 AM

I've seen the website, looks like its going to be another good anime year :D

soundchazer

04-10-2005, 07:44 AM

Tremolo

04-10-2005, 08:01 AM

I have to say that ever since Gonzo did Last Exile, their content capabilities have been upgraded quite a few notches. They are finally starting to catch on storywise with their talents at animation and design.

I'd definitely agree. Their more recent shows have been far better then some of their older works (Kiddy Grade, Zaion :yuck: ) - although I do feel that sometimes they just have too many series going on at once and they inevitably suffer because of that. Gantz: The Second Stage is a perfect example of this.

But I've noticed their recent shows have indeed more well-received, perhaps because of their new focus on story as well as animation. I'm hearing good things about Gankutsuou, and I'm pleased to see that with Speed Grapher they're doing something a bit different (and not relying on CGI nearly as much) rather than a mish-mash of ideas and fanservice that plagued some of their earlier works. To me this is the most promising show of the new season so far, although I'm hugely anticipating BONE's epic new series Eureka 7, so we'll just have to see where this goes.

Frog

04-10-2005, 09:57 AM

I have to say that ever since Gonzo did Last Exile, their content capabilities have been upgraded quite a few notches. They are finally starting to catch on storywise with their talents at animation and design.

Please tell me your joking. Gonzo is all about the pretty pictures thats it, nothing more, nothing less. It must be cause gonzo is spoiling you with a little bit of a plot becasue you've obvioulsy gone dilusional, and dont just take it from me ask your fellow staff member eek about gonzo and good plots, im sure he can agree with me that they dont mix very well.

soundchazer

04-10-2005, 10:10 AM

OK... please tell me all the Gonzo shows you have seen in their entirety post Last Exile. I'm sure you have plenty of good examples to back up your statement.

madpierrot

04-10-2005, 12:52 PM

I saw the first episode and it seemed alright. The show was relatively interesting, but after the first episode you still don't have a sense of direction with the show. The started to touch upon it, but not entirely. It made me want to watch some more, but I don't know if it's the kind of show I'll like. The show has a pretty dark mood/atmosphere that's not too bad, and different from most of what I've seen.

Frog

04-10-2005, 04:09 PM

soundchazer

04-10-2005, 05:06 PM

and what about:

KaleidoStar
Gantz (particularly the first season)
Gankutsuou?

Dude... I didn't say EVERY single one of their titles was a raving hit, all I said is that for all the misses they had in the past, they are starting to get "par for the course", and that is a good thing. If you are this biased against them you will miss the chance to watch some really entertaining shows just to prove a point.

Heck, if you ask me, they are doing a lot better than sacred cows like Gainax, which doesn't seem able to put its act together if Anno is not involved in the project somehow.

And to be quite honest, I'm still doubtful that you finished even one of those titles you mentioned, since you hate that company so much. I know if I had such ill will against them I wouldn't.

TypicalIdiotFan

04-10-2005, 05:47 PM

Episode 1:

Hmm... what an odd show.

First we have some real war drama stuff a la Full Metal Jacket then we have something right off Eyes Wide Shut. If I didn't know better, I'd say Gonzo is doing an homage to Stanley Kubrik films. Let me know if I missed any other possible Kubrik references.

The bit with the assassin reeks of one of the villians you'd have to fight in a Metal Gear Solid game.

All in all I don't know what to make of this show yet, but it seems to be flowing along at a bit of a brisk pace. I think they need to slow down and give us a little more story before going... pardon the pun... Gonzo on us.

Datsun

04-11-2005, 04:45 AM

OK... please tell me all the Gonzo shows you have seen in their entirety post Last Exile. I'm sure you have plenty of good examples to back up your statement.
hm lets see post Last Exile debacles from Gonzo that i've seen in there entirety well heres some...

PeaceMaker Kurogagne (http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1270,xvewuf,peace_maker_kur.html): Good idea, Good Characters, Poor plot, poor excectution, untimely ending.

Samuri 7 (http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1410,sazgub,samurai_7.html): Pretty easy to mess up this classic and guess what? Gonzo never fails in screwing up.

Ragnarok The Animation (http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1317,wkfguu,ragnarok_the_an.html): I will be fair seeing that i've only watched the first 18 episodes but already it basically fails in all aspects that make an anime good...including plot.

and please dont even get me started on Sunabozu...

If you would have said pre Last Exile then i would probably just list any anime that they've ever made but oh well...

Oh well, I'll list one I'm currently watching and that's Bakuretsu Tenshi (aka Burst Angel), and I'll be fair in saying I've only watched 19 episodes but this whole series seems to lack any direction whatsoever - individual episodes seem to be played out really badly, with bad action, worse dialogue and no long term plot points seeming to unfold either. Overall, pretty bad characters as well with, believe it or not, the complete ditz probably being the best character.

Anyway, with regards to Speed Grapher, it seems that what Gonzo does really well initially is to create interesting backdrops to anime, but they don't seem to be able to back it up with simple facts about the world, like how the hell everyone wound up in the desert? (Sunabouzu). Even Burst Angel seemed to be set in a pretty cool world initially, but none of the technology or history is explained, and ends up feeling half-baked as far as the story goes.

soundchazer

04-11-2005, 05:02 AM

Oh well, I'll list one I'm currently watching and that's Bakuretsu Tenshi (aka Burst Angel), and I'll be fair in saying I've only watched 19 episodes but this whole series seems to lack any direction whatsoever - individual episodes seem to be played out really badly, with bad action, worse dialogue and no long term plot points seeming to unfold either. Overall, pretty bad characters as well with, believe it or not, the complete ditz probably being the best character.

Anyway, with regards to Speed Grapher, it seems that what Gonzo does really well initially is to create interesting backdrops to anime, but they don't seem to be able to back it up with simple facts about the world, like how the hell everyone wound up in the desert? (Sunabouzu). Even Burst Angel seemed to be set in a pretty cool world initially, but none of the technology or history is explained, and ends up feeling half-baked as far as the story goes.

Uhm... Bakuretsu Tenshi is not a Gonzo anime. It is produced by Xebex/Daume/T-Up and developed by Imagica.

loner

04-11-2005, 05:45 AM

Hmmm. Interesting is the only word I can think of to describe the first episode. I need more explanations on how this world works, the characters' past and the Metal Gear Solid dude. This show certainly has style, which is expected from Gonzo, and I feel the character design actually suits the world pretty well. There is huge potential for a good and intriguing story, so let's hope they really try to develop this.

While Gonzo undoubtedly produced many trainwrecks, and Kiddy Grade ranks among the most pointless anime I've ever seen, they also have some very good titles. Last Exile and Kaleidostar are very good. And c'mon, like the doc said, every studio have their hits and misses. Don't just single out Gonzo for that.

Datsun

04-11-2005, 03:53 PM

Uhm... Bakuretsu Tenshi is not a Gonzo anime. It is produced by Xebex/Daume/T-Up and developed by Imagica.

I'm almost sure I saw a big 'GONZO' in the intro of each episode - anyway one source says:

http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=3560

Am I missing something?

soundchazer

04-11-2005, 04:02 PM

I'm almost sure I saw a big 'GONZO' in the intro of each episode - anyway one source says:

http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=3560

unless I'm missing something?

I wonder what recreational drug i was doing when i read that one.

my mistake.

And Burst Angel is indeed not the best Gonzo production out there.

(for those who may be shocked, I was kidding about the recreational drug thing, I have never done drugs)

Dtortot

04-11-2005, 09:36 PM

I am in the limbo with this one, story looks interesting, but will it live to meet my expectations?

I'll wait a few more episodes before giving a solid and concrete comment, but at least I can say it has caught my eye, well, more than that.

nixie1512

04-11-2005, 09:40 PM

TypicalIdiotFan

04-11-2005, 09:54 PM

Anyway, watching it reminded me of the cult mentioned in Da Vinci Code. It's actually based on Hieros Gamos, an ancient religious sex ritual (Egypt/Greek/Sumeria). Physical union with the female, or goddess, (as in intercourse) could help the man become spiritually complete and ultimately achieve the knowledge of the divine. By communing with woman, man could achieve a climatic instant (orgasm) when his mind went totally blank and he could see God.

SOLD! Your bed or mine?!

loner

04-12-2005, 07:09 AM

Very weird. I can't say i like it much. I am not fond of the premise/setting it's based on.

Anyway, watching it reminded me of the cult mentioned in Da Vinci Code. It's actually based on Hieros Gamos, an ancient religious sex ritual (Egypt/Greek/Sumeria). Physical union with the female, or goddess, (as in intercourse) could help the man become spiritually complete and ultimately achieve the knowledge of the divine. By communing with woman, man could achieve a climatic instant (orgasm) when his mind went totally blank and he could see God.

Oh Duran Duran for the opening theme? Lovely~ ;) *girls on film...girls on film...*

Actually, the ritual in Speed Grapher is different.

There is a group of people called Euphoria that have superhuman powers. When they are kissed by that girl in the ritual, they will be able to used those powers. The dancer/Metal Gear Solid freak is one of them, and his power is being ultra-elastic. That's what the Euphoria factor is about.

That's from the official website btw.

nixie1512

04-12-2005, 09:07 AM

I said it's based on. I just find it particularly familiar, especially them wearing their masks. That's another significance in the ancient ritual. And that thing about getting powers sounds like "the knowledge of the divine". But yeah, it isn't exactly the same xD

Maveric

04-12-2005, 09:28 AM

Oh Duran Duran for the opening theme? Lovely~ ;) *girls on film...girls on film...*

Is that really the opening song? I thought it was something the subbers put in. That's actually kinda cool though. Now I don't have to illegally download an opening since I already have it on CD :P

Frog

04-12-2005, 11:44 AM

And to be quite honest, I'm still doubtful that you finished even one of those titles you mentioned, since you hate that company so much. I know if I had such ill will against them I wouldn't.
I've watched all that i've said ive watched. I think basically what your asking me is why i watch bad anime (from this company in particular) and my anwser to that is, well it makes watching the good anime that much better. If that logic makes any sense. And believe me its not like i have a grudge agianst gonzo, its just that they seem to only want to make pretty pictures and to me, thats nice but it doesnt cut it.

Anyhow, i just watched the first episode, and well i cant really form a proper opinion on it. It felt like alot of stuff was going on and well many things were unexplained, but hey its the first episode I cant get on them after one episode. I did however really liked the ending theme, man for some reason ive been humming that god damn shit in my head the whole day so it must have served its purpose. I'll be looking foward to how this anime fairs and to see if my notions about gonzo still ring true.

hayama22

04-12-2005, 04:33 PM

Anyhow, i just watched the first episode, and well i cant really form a proper opinion on it. It felt like alot of stuff was going on and well many things were unexplained, but hey its the first episode I cant get on them after one episode. I did however really liked the ending theme, man for some reason ive been humming that god damn shit in my head the whole day so it must have served its purpose. I'll be looking foward to how this anime fairs and to see if my notions about gonzo still ring true.

The first thing that I noticed while skimming through it was the ending. It was odd, I wouldn't think it was anything special yet somehow it hit me really hard and even may be one of my favorite anime songs of all time.

I don't really know what to say about the show. It'll probably be enjoyable in a dark way. Right now I'm hoping that they develop the girl and her relationship with Seiga(right?) well. I'm also hoping that she's the light in the middle of darkness.

soundchazer

04-12-2005, 07:12 PM

I really liked the first episode, although it is hard to tell if they will be able to keep a coherent storyline. The background for the world in which they live has been setup nicely. It has that Last Exile vibe to it in many ways.

PerfectDeath

04-12-2005, 08:35 PM

interesting is all i can come up with... will it be great or will it be crap?
inno just watch it damnit.
if it's crap then the good stuff will seem like gold... if it's gold then... well it's gold... golds good.

Ritalin

04-14-2005, 11:15 PM

I checked this anime out not having a clue of what it is.

Then I saw GONZO slapped on during the credits and though, "Oh dear God, why did I waste my bandwidth?"

EPISODE 1 SPOILERS!

During the episode I was a little confused, my mind was all over the place. Not in a negative manner, instead the anime just suddenly jumped from a war scene to the city. During that war scene I became a little disturbed, Saiga got a hard-on because he just photographed a soldier getting pummeled by bullets.

Excuse me?

It happens again after that Elastic-Dancer-Dude finished murdering the men in the hotel, when Saigo takes photo's of the men with their necks twisted off. That lady in red (forgetting name... if they mentioned it) proceeds to grab his danger zone because he is yet again aroused by the blood and death.

As he goes into the secret society, you witness a lot of Bondage/BDSM type rooms, and even see some girls dancing with the typical bondage "clothing" on. Even the bouncers (security guards) are styled up as such...

But I enjoyed it. The sexual... stuff... stood out to me more than anything though. It's a very weird anime so far. I'm gonna stick with it for awhile and see how it goes, but I'm very hesitant with Gonzo series (except for Last Exile, mmmm).

A-R@D

04-14-2005, 11:22 PM

Saw The first episode of this.It was Definatley interesting. I will look forward to watching the first few episodes of this. I hope in the upcoming episodes they flesh out the characters a bit more and get the plot going. This show really is up in the air as to if it will be good or bad. The mature setting is intruiges me, I hope they can put it together.

Tremolo

04-21-2005, 05:44 AM

Episode 2. Beware spoilers.

Well, that was unexpected. Rather than following up from the cliffhanger of the first episode we instead get to see the "goddess" in her everyday life, which helps us learn a lot more about the world the series inhabits and the potential bad guys.

And it's just as, if not more sick than the first episode. You will not believe some of the stuff that happens, but it's so well done and extremely compelling that you go along with it anyway.

Whilst it is frustrating that the episode ends on pretty much the same cliffhanger as the first one, this episode confirms that Speed Grapher is definitely the most strange, twisted, dark and downright excellent anime of the new season. I'm absolutely salivating for more.

And it seems Duran Duran's 'Girls on Film' IS the opening theme!

Neo-Hunter

04-21-2005, 06:42 AM

From what Tremolo has said this might be a good anime to watch.

Elric

04-21-2005, 12:51 PM

episode 2:

Well it started off dull since end of episode 1 suspensed me for more and first 10 minutes was a struggle since felt dry to me. With an anime like this the way the atmosphere was presented before; I wanted to see some dark girtty messed up moments and felt like a slice of life moment done as exciting as sitting staring at the window with no action whatsoever.

Fortunately in the second half; the fun began again. Sure corruption is what rotted our planet, but it felt vital to the anime. There came several moments that came out of nowhere and sparked me a little. It was one "wtf" after another.

Here we are ending where episode 1 ended. Doubt it would remain that way later on though. Evil 2nd half saved the day and will watch episode 3 hopefully without someone pointing a gun at me to watch.

MadTrumpet

04-22-2005, 05:51 PM

The episode 2 ending was fine with me. Sure it ends in the same place, but the circumstances are entirely different, and it sets up the intersection between Saiga and Kagura nicely.

I loved the introduction of even more psychotic characters than last time. The piano man looking for angel arms was brilliant, and mom's twisted "lesson" about the value of money really underscores how depraved this world's elite have become. Sure there wasn't much background on any of these characters yet, but they are all so damn interesting I could go a long way in this series without a care about development.

Tremolo

04-26-2005, 09:34 AM

Episode 3.

There are less "oh my gawd!" moments in this, but I'm pleased to see this series moving along at a good pace as opposed to rushing and therefore confusing the viewer. We get a bit more fleshing out of the characters and it continues to be so enthralling that each episode is over too soon for me

This continues to be the most promising series of the Spring season and is an absolute must-watch.

I just wish my camera could do what Saiga's does :(

wildarmsheero

04-26-2005, 11:58 AM

I've only seen up to episode 2. It's an ok series so far. Animation is a bit static at times, not the best I've seen. I enjoyed episode 2 a lot more than episode, espcially when they showed the girl's daily routine. Character designs are range from ok to great (the main girl, I like her design). I'll be downloading 3 when I get the chance.

PsychoSaiya-jin

04-26-2005, 03:41 PM

This show is going to get very interesting, in a very strange way.

http://speed-grapher.com/top.shtml

[edit] Check the animated gif @
http://speed-grapher.com/gallery/index.html

Ninja Realist

04-26-2005, 03:48 PM

Wow is that for real?

wildarmsheero

04-26-2005, 07:47 PM

For some reason I really like this show. I mean, the animation isn't great, but it's just so easy to watch. I dunno, maybe it's because I don't have to think about it much while i'm watching it.

heffer

04-26-2005, 08:31 PM

This show rocks: sex, killing, euphoria powers, organized crime... Its very dark!

Death by Photo - MUAHAHAHAHA

TypicalIdiotFan

04-27-2005, 12:09 AM

Ep 2:

Good way to tell this story. First episode focuses on one of the main characters, second episode focuses on the other main character. Deliberate and methodical. I like it. Truly despicable bad people doing very bad things. Groovy.

The irony.

When we were doin the Mai HiME thread, someone pointed out a link between Duran (Natsuki's Child, a wolf) and the Duran Duran song "Hungry Like The Wolves". Now we get an actual Duran Duran song used as the intro. Coincidence? I don't believe in them.

PsychoSaiya-jin

04-27-2005, 10:10 AM

MadTrumpet

04-27-2005, 10:36 AM

Episode 3:

Pace definitely slowed down, no crazy new characters introduced. I'm not so in love with the whole death by camera bit. Doesn't seem like anything more special than a dude holding a rocket-launcher that fits in the palm of his hand. It was nice to get a little more info on a couple of the ladies in the show: apparently the nose guard has something to do with the bad girl's super sense of smell, and the "cop" needs a gun to get wet. Nice. I think I'm checked in for the long run on this show.

Ninja Realist

04-27-2005, 11:40 AM

WHAT? That camera is way more badass then a lame bazooka could ever hope to be.

MadTrumpet

04-27-2005, 11:53 AM

WHAT? That camera is way more badass then a lame bazooka could ever hope to be.
Meh, he pulls the trigger things blow up... Big whoop.

TypicalIdiotFan

04-27-2005, 12:02 PM

Not to nitpick...

But you close the shutter and things blow up. ;)

In any event

Ep 3:

I do enjoy how they didn't subtitle Duran Duran but... at the same time... can anybody really understand them without the subtitles? I mean, c'mon, it's like trying to decipher an early Rolling Stones song without being stoned.

Be that as it may, this show is so wickedly dirty at times. I do enjoy the mix of the mature and the macabre, the sensual and the disturbing. It's a very nice change of pace from kiddy shows or straight out hentai porn. Instead you get something in the middle; something someone more mature can truly appreciate.

PerfectDeath

05-03-2005, 07:10 PM

i loves this show seriously he stuff blows up from his camers ^_^
plus the humor is quite mature and funny
cop chick "seems like i can't get wet with out my gun and you can't get it up without a camera."
Dude "not enough blood."
*passes out*
XD
if you tie togetehr the fact that he lost lots of blood befor then you understand ^_^

TypicalIdiotFan

05-03-2005, 11:40 PM

Elric

05-05-2005, 09:21 AM

Finally we get past what happened at the end of episode one (though its only the 3rd episode) and the intesnsity of the series is good. Getting a better feel of the characters especially Kagura. It's not hard to be sympathetic towards her being stuck with these group of people who sabotage her freedom.

As for Saiga. It's pretty cool that he can kill people with his camera now. I think the reason Saiga got those kind of powers with the whole "his desire became reality" thing was understandable thinking back when....

In parts of episode 1 taking picture when the soldier was being shot and later on when taking a picture of the dead bodies. His facial expressions towards it seems to fasinate him whenever he's taking pictures of death related stuff. Thats my theory anyways

This is a mature anime with a good pacing to not got fustrated over when viewing the series.

*thumbs up*

PerfectDeath

05-07-2005, 05:33 PM

well i am interested in seein how this one turns out, it seems like it is going towards the direction were Saiga becomes hunted by the club's euphoria, but hopefully it doesn't follow a monster of the week format, but it doesn't seem to be going there.

Tamashii

05-07-2005, 06:38 PM

Yeah, I caught the disfunction gag. ;)

Groovy little things like that make me smile. Now if only the animation would remain consistent. Jesus, it's Jekyl and Hide in this show. When something important is going on, the animation is usually quite well done. When something unimportant is going on, like say, when people are driving cars anywhere, the animation takes a dump.

If this is Gonzo's way of keeping in budget, then I suppose I can forgive the "non important" parts being poorly animated. Still, it doesn't make it any less glaring.

Ahhh yeah, it was pretty bad in Madhouse's Beck, too...

...oh ****, wait, it was about 90% crappy animation. Nevermind.

Anyways, Speed Grapher is a joke. After three episodes, I'm convinced that it is going to be another GONZO flop. Sure, there's some interesting themes (though not unique, of course), but come on, "cameras that blow things up"? You can call it creative if you want, but I call that "****ING STUPID". It's like a 12-year-old's anime or something, jesus, except there's more sex here and less dickgrabbing and kancho's.

TypicalIdiotFan

05-07-2005, 10:48 PM

Ahhh yeah, it was pretty bad in Madhouse's Beck, too...

...oh ****, wait, it was about 90% crappy animation. Nevermind.

Ne'er seen it. I'll take your word for it.

Anyways, Speed Grapher is a joke. After three episodes, I'm convinced that it is going to be another GONZO flop. Sure, there's some interesting themes (though not unique, of course), but come on, "cameras that blow things up"? You can call it creative if you want, but I call that "****ING STUPID". It's like a 12-year-old's anime or something, jesus, except there's more sex here and less dickgrabbing and kancho's.

Phew, who pissed in your cheerios this morning, Tam? You're a grumpy little troll aintcha? ;)

Anyway, I admit the camera blowing things up is kind of stupid. At least the blowing up part. If it just killed people, that'd be fine. It kind of ties into the philosophical reason for his "deepest desire". Honestly, we still don't know what it is, but if it has something to do with capturing people at the moment of death on film, then having things blow up seems kind of a weird way to do it.

I think maybe that was a compromise that GONZO did. They already have sexual innuendo and situations, blood flinging in various places, and bodies cut in half. Having people die in gruesome ways with the camera flashing on them would probably take too much animation to do with believability and would probably somehow be more graphic and intense then what they were going for. The exploding stuff just kind of lets them hide the death behind a cloud of smoke (I noticed they used that a couple of times in episde 3) and allows the camera to be used for other things then killing people.

What the end result will be is the payoff, I think. You're writing it off a bit early, Tamashii.

Tremolo

05-08-2005, 06:20 AM

Episode 4.

This episode was slightly less good than the others, but still definitely worth watching. I did feel the animation let down a few sequences though, which is a considerable shame - the fight between Saiga and the creepy rubber dancer guy would've been far more effective as a result, but it did show Saiga using his newfound abilities in a much more clever fashion.

But not a bad episode overall, and it seems now that a lot of the set-up is done with we can get to the main drive of the story.

Ninja Realist

05-09-2005, 05:17 PM

I liked the episode, and in particular the music. I really, really like the music in this show. It's very melancholy and unsettling, adds a lot to the whows atmosphere. I thought the pacing was a little off in this episode, but I liked it over all. Even though they did use the hide behind a cloud trick for the rubber guy's death, It was more creative than the other killings.

loner

05-10-2005, 06:36 AM

Weird, Gonzo's on drugs for this one. It is trying to build a solid plotline, yet the animation is not up to par? That is so...unGonzolike. I admire them for trying to shake off the style over substance tag, but if they fail with the plot, they won't even have the eyecandy to fall back on (which even Kiddy Grade did have). So they better deliver the goods with the story. This could go either way: it could become Gonzo's best ever, or it could become its biggest failure.

TypicalIdiotFan

05-11-2005, 10:49 PM

Episode 5:

I find it interesting that they had so much play with the "Rubber Man" in the first episode and then... rubbed him out so easily. I'm not disagreeing with it, because we get a new badass to deal with in this episode. They even changed the intro to reflect the new "Euphoria-phreak du jour".

But what a phreak!

And what an episode! Hee hee hee.... I could have gone my entire life without seeing the "nightly show", but seeing Kagura get involved was just damned funny. And they did something in this episode that I've been kind of irritated at anime about for a while. Rather they did something.. I guess.. right.. and wrong.. at the same time.

When Kagura sings, it's very obvious that it's not the voice actress singing. I mean, duh. But since she's singing a song whose lyrics are in English, it's not a bad at idea at all to actually have it SUNG by an English person! And sung well, I might add.

Anyway, even though the animation continues to be spotty at times, A- episode! Good fun!

Tremolo

05-12-2005, 05:51 AM

Episode Five.

Another great episode. I'm really liking the direction this show is going in, even if the animation could be slightly better in places, but it's not a big gripe: it does the job.

As TIF says, a very fun episode to boot - the ultra-camp night club people were hugely entertaining (and I did laugh at Kagura's sheer naivete) and the new freak of the week is especially interesting and just as gross. Maybe the fact that all the people with the Euphoria Factor is providing foreshadowing for Saiga; will he end up going down such a dark path?

Great stuff overall.

PerfectDeath

05-12-2005, 07:06 PM

well saiga does get a hard on from taking pictures of dead people and people dieing... so ya...

i belive that wich absolute power comes absolute corruption. so it's pretty good that the main character would get caught up in the power high.

MadTrumpet

05-13-2005, 12:29 AM

TypicalIdiotFan

05-13-2005, 01:43 AM

I wasn't a fan of the English singing. It's just too offputting considering how obvious it isn't Kagura's voice. I would have preferred her singing some crappy Engrish song or just sticking to Japanese... and unless singing will be important to the plot later, just let the seiyuu sing bad and get a laugh out of it.

Well, she said she only knew "hymns". Not that Amazing Grace isn't a great hymn, but it's probably the most versatile of them all, going beyond religious symbolism and actually being more about the author, who was a slave trader before "finding God." Not sure if that has any relevance here, but eh. I'd like to know who actually did sing it though. They weren't bad, but it didn't sound like a typical gospel or Grand Ole Opry singer.

Except when she's biting off fingers, the new euphoria chick was kinda boring. I prefer the girl with the nose. If she's supposed to be another euphoria, is her greatest desire to smell things like some kind of dog? Bizarre.

What makes everybody think that's a chick? Unless "she" has no breasts whatsoever (which would be odd compared to all the other chicks running around in this show, including Kagura) then that chest exposing shirt "she's" always wearing is a dead givaway to the manliest chest I've ever seen. Manly!

Animation's pretty mediocre, everyone looks like they are half-drawn a lot of the time, but the characters are fantastic so I'm still in love with this.

I find it really odd that Gonzo is kind of halfassing the animation (at times) in this show. This is clearly the best show idea they have this season, so if they're using up the budget on other projects, then I'm confused.

loner

05-13-2005, 04:35 AM

I guess all the money went into Trinity Blood. The animation does look bad at times, but whatever. For once we have a substance over style Gonzo show, so we should rejoice.

I'm pretty sure Diamond 'Lady' is a man, not just that 'she' doesn't seem to have any breast, but also since there are so many crossdressers in this show. I believe this should be some kind of hint. And I find biting off other people's fingers to eat diamonds just as interesting as twisting little girls' arms because they aren't elastic enough.

Amazing Grace in a crossdresser's night club. Now I've seen everything.

MadTrumpet

05-13-2005, 08:51 AM

What makes everybody think that's a chick? Unless "she" has no breasts whatsoever (which would be odd compared to all the other chicks running around in this show, including Kagura) then that chest exposing shirt "she's" always wearing is a dead givaway to the manliest chest I've ever seen. Manly!

Good point. I vaguely remember someone in the last episode referring to "her" as a "him", but I just brushed it off as that extra didn't get a good luck. Well, then if "he" is a dude, then "he" is pretty effeminate. "He/she" loses either way I guess.

Tremolo

05-13-2005, 08:53 AM

Good point. I vaguely remember someone in the last episode referring to "her" as a "him", but I just brushed it off as that extra didn't get a good luck. Well, then if "he" is a dude, then "he" is pretty effeminate. "He/she" loses either way I guess.

On the official website apparently the nose...person (whose name escapes me right now) has unknown gender, so it could swing either way, and that makes it more interesting in that sense. It's almost like Envy from Fullmetal Alchemist all over again!

PerfectDeath

05-13-2005, 10:08 AM

ya the nose guy sounds like a man, dresses feminine, but kinda looks like a man.
hey you never know with this anime there are weird people, especialy euphorias.

Lupin the 3rd

05-13-2005, 10:14 AM

this shows sounds intresting i have to check them out! Of course its from Gonzo (Hellsing, Vandread, Gantz) i will give it a chance! ^_^

Frog

05-13-2005, 10:42 AM

this shows sounds intresting i have to check them out! Of course its from Gonzo (Hellsing, Vandread, Gantz) i will give it a chance! ^_^

You say that like its a good thing...
So far i have to say im really impressed. The characters are intresting, The plot is coherent, and everything else is shaping up nicely. To bad the animation is below par especially for gonzo, but hey i would sacrifice animation for a coherent plot anyday.

Lupin the 3rd

05-13-2005, 11:55 AM

You say that like its a good thing...

because it is! :thumbup: :la:

TypicalIdiotFan

05-13-2005, 11:57 AM

I'm pretty sure Diamond 'Lady' is a man, not just that 'she' doesn't seem to have any breast, but also since there are so many crossdressers in this show. I believe this should be some kind of hint.

Really? Diamond Lady has no breasts? I dunno man... she did strip nekkid at the end of the show to turn her power on. I'm fairly sure she's a chick.

No, the other dude is who I am referring to. The guy/gal whatever with the nose.

And I find biting off other people's fingers to eat diamonds just as interesting as twisting little girls' arms because they aren't elastic enough.

Dude that was ****ing awesome when I saw it, both things. Like I said, considering the rubber man got so much play in the first episode, I find it interesting that he was axed... if I may... "rather easily". But, hey, it opened the door for this sick ****.

loner

05-13-2005, 08:15 PM

Shadowmage

05-13-2005, 08:30 PM

Urgh, got mixed up. Nevermind on what I said about Diamond Lady. She looked a little flat for me, I guess. My brain was not functioning ever since that finger came off.

I'd wish there was more rubber guy too. Wouldn't it be fun to have the diamond lady and him attacking Saiga?

Wait isn't the rubber guy Saiga?
EDIT: Apparantly Saiga is not the rubber guy. I just checked and the two characters have similar character designs; however, it differs a little.

MadTrumpet

05-13-2005, 11:30 PM

Wait isn't the rubber guy Saiga?
EDIT: Apparantly Saiga is not the rubber guy. I just checked and the two characters have similar character designs; however, it differs a little.
In the context of the show I don't see how there is any possible way to confuse the two, no matter how similar in design they may be :confused:

loner

05-14-2005, 12:22 AM

I shall take the blame for Shadowmage. I started to confuse characters, and now my lunacy is spreading in this thread.

/me performs seppuku to appease the mass

sohryu

05-14-2005, 02:44 AM

Tremolo

05-14-2005, 02:54 AM

OK, stupid freshman question:

I just read about Speed Grapher in some magazine, and it sounded interesting. The question is: How have you all already seen it, if the show is supposed to be new for Japan this year, and new for US next year?

You don't know about fansubs? :3huh: I thought everyone did nowadays, but there you go. It's against AA rules to tell you where to find them, but Google should point you in the right direction.

In the context of the show I don't see how there is any possible way to confuse the two, no matter how similar in design they may be

I have to agree. Seems you may need to watch the show a little more carefully in the future, Shadowmage ;)

Shadowmage

05-14-2005, 07:55 AM

I have to agree. Seems you may need to watch the show a little more carefully in the future, Shadowmage ;)
Episode 4. It is obvious that they are not the same person... Sorry for the confusion.

TypicalIdiotFan

05-14-2005, 11:45 AM

Episode 4. It is obvious that they are not the same person... Sorry for the confusion.

Well yeah. One's dead. ;)

MadTrumpet

05-14-2005, 03:50 PM

On the official website apparently the nose...person (whose name escapes me right now) has unknown gender, so it could swing either way, and that makes it more interesting in that sense. It's almost like Envy from Fullmetal Alchemist all over again!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v369/madtrumpet/chest.bmp

Frilly shirt + long hair + one boob? = chick?

Shadowmage

05-14-2005, 04:10 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v369/madtrumpet/chest.bmp

Frilly shirt + long hair + one boob? = chick?

Shemale?

Elric

05-14-2005, 05:26 PM

After watching 4 and 5; I must say that to me it's a winner and one of the few gonzo anime I enjoy. Heres my thoughts on it.

Episode 4:
Well it's nice to know Kagura was able to escape and im happy for her. The creulty in the begining of the episode certainly got my attention as well. It's really been a while to sit down and watch an enjoyable mature rated anime.

Yay I saw more of the rubber guy again, but ticked off personaly that he got disposed so early. At least they should of give him more screentime before kicking the bucket, but oh well. Saiga did some clever uses with the cam. At least the fight between them good. Nothing beats a good action scene with clasical music in the background. Suits the rubber dude at least.

Theres not much to say cept that it was an enjoyable episode.

Episode 5:

So we get introduced to the so called diamond lady and shes freaky as well. Really has a an appatite for those diamonds and would even eat fingers with it for gods sake. Heres a new lesson learned especially those who wear jewelery (mostly women).

Be very careful when walking outside wearing diamonds.You never know the people you might bump into. ;)

On the cherry side; I find it cute about Kaguras cluelessness and her just dancing in the club. She sings well acually in the end and I knew I heard the song before, but my minds at a blank trying to remember whats the songs name. I would love u if u tell me the name of it. :)

Also found it funny how the nose chick/dude was able to find kaguras scent from a molester who touched her earlier. I understand his pain how mr. molester got kicked in the temple,s but serves him right though. On the ugly side the so called girls in the bar freak me out. It's just the voices. Feels so wrong in ways I probobly dont want to know.

Basicly I really got into the episode and just flied by. When it gets even more "omg"; it ended. I didnt even notice the time when i was finsed watching it this time.

All I gotta say is that this show is crazy good. the supernatural bad guys really give me the whole bad ass vibe, which I miss feeling. Who dosent love a villian thats crazy, but just plain cool?

Well now lets camp out and wait for the 6th episode.

Shadowmage

05-14-2005, 08:47 PM

Yay I saw more of the rubber guy again, but ticked off personaly that he got disposed so early. At least they should of give him more screentime before kicking the bucket, but oh well. Saiga did some clever uses with the cam. At least the fight between them good. Nothing beats a good action scene with clasical music in the background. Suits the rubber dude at least.
I just hope this anime doesn't have the "villain of the week" theme. (They could at least develop the bad guys besides just they are insane-which they ARE.)

If you want proof of their insanity:
Rubber Guy- Breaks a little girls arm just because she was not flexible
Diamond Lady- ....Read Elric's post about her diamond fetish.
Nose... Guy- A potential Shemale... Need I say more?
Piano Teacher- Rips people's arms off just because he has a hand fetish.

TypicalIdiotFan

05-14-2005, 10:32 PM

On the cherry side; I find it cute about Kaguras cluelessness and her just dancing in the club. She sings well acually in the end and I knew I heard the song before, but my minds at a blank trying to remember whats the songs name. I would love u if u tell me the name of it. :)

Already covered this. It's Amazing Grace, the popular Protestant Hymn.

MadTrumpet

05-18-2005, 09:02 PM

Episode 6:

Probably the worst one yet. Not too much happened... mostly just an extended chase seen. We get more of the "money is everything" theme; but did they slip in a little bit about women are only as good as how much a man will buy them for? Hide the feminists.

Any insight on why Suitengu is "pretending" to be handicapped in his first scene in this episode? I assume after being shot in the kneecaps in the last episode, being a Euphoria allowed him to heal quickly. So he must be hiding his Euphoria-ness from someone not identified. Could the Tennouzo chick not know he is a Euphoria? Intrigue...

Besides the one finger biting, I thought diamond lady was a little boring, so not too sad to see her go. Monster of the week is still going strong, as it looks like we get to meet crazy dentist next week. Hopefully the main arc will soon expand out a little bit from just Kagura and Saiga running from mommy and Suitengu. Still eating this one up though.

Tremolo

05-19-2005, 02:27 AM

Episode 6.

Not too bad overall. Whilst the animation still isn't anything amazing, I do like the mood effects and dark feel of the show - lots of texture and shadow that suits it well and hides some of the less fluid animation moments.

It seems Suitengu has his own agenda, and I'm intrigued to see just what that is. Some backstory for nose-person would be cool as well.

Some nice Saiga/Kagura moments as well. It looks like this show is going in a good direction.

loner

05-19-2005, 05:43 AM

Ep 6:

Concludes the Diamond Lady arc, and raises a few new interesting things. Not great, but it did its business. But I really don't want this to fall into 'Euphoria of the Week' and more wild goose chases. The worst thing that could happen to the series is to become formulaic.

Looks like Dr. Soundchazer is going to guest star in the next episode. Who is the unlucky fella that's getting his gender changed? (looks damn painful...)

soundchazer

05-19-2005, 05:57 AM

/me takes note of Loner's remarks for future reference.

loner

05-19-2005, 06:16 AM

Ack!
/me slams his feet into his mouth

Why do I have to wisecrack....Why do I have to wisecrack....Why do I have to wisecrack.....

/me looks at his avatar
Well, it's not like you have much to work on anyways...

Yuhara

05-19-2005, 12:13 PM

Shadowmage

05-19-2005, 01:49 PM

As i have been watching Speed Grapher i cant help but think that the creaters made the first few episode heavily fan serviced, and that is what was designed to pull in the majority of the audience. ive been watching for for charcter develpment and action which i am only hoping aspect will pick up. but so far there isnt much i can find going good for the anime. im not saying its bad, for i have only see so few episodes and i wont turn it down so quickly. but is anyone else thinking that the driving force is the whole "i might see a boobie shot in this episode!?!?!" i do amit that the series is picking up some, but i just hate that in the back of my mind is going to be something like Kite.
Hmmm.... I don't think that fanservice is the selling point of the anime. Althought the anime has some lewd scenes in it, it is relatively minor compared to Kite.
I'm more worried about the second thing you said. I just hope this doesn't become a "villain of the week" anime and take character development to the back seat.

Tremolo

05-31-2005, 06:22 AM

Episode 7.

Scared of the dentist? Then do NOT watch this episode.

One flashback is plagued by Engrish as well, which is extremely awkward but the seiyuu's try their best.

This is primariliy a set-up episode, but one with a nasty sting in its tail - not entirely unexpected, but quite shocking nonetheless.

The next episode looks far more interesting.

TypicalIdiotFan

05-31-2005, 10:46 PM

Episode 7:

Good episode. Lots of story development which has been sorely needed. We even get to delve a bit into Saiga's past to find out more about him. The freaky ass dentist scene at the beginning of the episode just made my skin crawl. The realistic sound of the drill on something hard creeps me the **** out. That dude out in the waiting area that was cringing? Yeah that was me. Good choice of a villain this time; someone that EVERYBODY can be scared of. Doctor Giggles meets Arachnaephobia.

The end of the episode was a completely surprising twist. I didn't know that anybody in anime would ever use such an angle; usually such things are reserved for soap operas. I am pleased as punch to see it, but somehow I have a feeling it isn't what we think it is. Still, damned good to flop about some reality in an otherwise fantastic show.

A- episode, only because the animation still sucks. Bad.

loner

06-01-2005, 12:55 AM

Like I said before, Gonzo's really going for substance in this title. Even though I don't like 'Euphoria of the Week' thing, I like the fact that it takes a backseat to character development so far. That dentist scared the hell out of me. It's your worst dentist nightmare come true. I've always have a sneaking feeling that what the crazy dentist this episode did to that woman is what every dentist in the world truly desires. (Gomen to dentists)

As for the last twist, I think the producers might just go with it all the way. At least that's what I want to see.

MadTrumpet

06-02-2005, 12:07 PM

Great episode. The new euphoria is more interesting than the last, and thankfully the "euphoria of the week" was only a few minutes of screen time. Lots of Saiga development, and a small but significant Kagura development, makes me happy. There was a lot more talking this time around, so I didn't notice the crummy animation as much as in previous episodes.

This show needed a new driving force besides running from Suitengu and fighting random euphorias. So hopefully after the end of this episode we'll have many more new avenues to explore.

soundchazer

06-02-2005, 12:12 PM

Is it me or does it seem that Gonzo is trying to make people notice the story by making the artwork substandard?

I know this would be my approach if I was known for producing "pretty fluff".

TypicalIdiotFan

06-02-2005, 12:38 PM

Tremolo

06-02-2005, 01:28 PM

If you look at one of their other anime this season, Trinity Blood, you'll notice spectacular animation, but a story that really isn't doing anything at the moment but be fairly standard fare. (It's interesting, but not as involving as Speed Grapher's).

There's also Basilisk, which from what I saw had very nice animation, but is based off a novel, meaning a plot is already there as it were. I haven't seen very much of it yet, so hopefully someone here can elaborate.

I do agree about Trinity Blood though, which whilst based off an un-finished manga and a series of novels seems to be striking out in a very different directio and only retaining elements of those. I'm interested to see what GONZO have planned for it, but it's certainly not quite as involving and immediately compelling as Speed Grapher is.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-03-2005, 12:08 PM

Episode 8:

Ding Dong, the Doc is Dead. Good. That was one sick ****. When they did the flashback of how he "treated" Kagura, I was creeping right out of my chair. Mother of Mercy I wouldn't wish such a horrid thing on my worst enemy. However, he may have been the single best and most creepy villain an anime has ever had. I bow to the creativity we're seeing here, even the way Saiga deals with his opponents has some flash... no pun intended.

Animation is still piss poor, but consistent. I liked how they did the piano playing scene with Kagura. Most other animated shows try to make it look like someone is playing an instrument or something but not even bothering to match the movements of hands / whatever to what's being played. In this case, they didn't even bother showing hands. Good idea. When your animation is already shitty, why bother doing something that will just end up making it look worse?

Oh, and nice ass Suitengu.... /gag

Ninja Realist

06-03-2005, 05:21 PM

After episode 7, I'm not even sure if I can stomach 8.

Tremolo

06-03-2005, 06:20 PM

Episode Eight.

Suitengu's ass.

Teeth fetish.

Piano.

Best Euphoria yet.

Bazooka-proof car.

Great episode.

Poor squeamish TIF :(

Elric

06-03-2005, 07:12 PM

Is it me or does it seem that Gonzo is trying to make people notice the story by making the artwork substandard?

I know this would be my approach if I was known for producing "pretty fluff".

Interesting theory. Got any ratings numbers available to see if it's true? It's hard to evaluate that tho, since it may be popular DESPITE it's crummy artwork. Well, at least it's popular amongst US without good artwork. It is possible that GONZO is trying to make a POINT about the importnace of animation quality vs a good story. If you look at one of their other anime this season, Trinity Blood, you'll notice spectacular animation, but a story that really isn't doing anything at the moment but be fairly standard fare. (It's interesting, but not as involving as Speed Grapher's).

I agree with both of u. I think this time its substance over style. Guess showing us whats more than what meets the eye not clouded by pretty pictures. Would be great if an anime is both high on style and substance, but the subtrance is much more important in my opinion. I didnt see Trinity Blood yet so go comment on that, but I show 2 episodes of Aquarion and though it's gorgeous, I think the plot is all jumpbled up and feels like its not worth getting into.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-03-2005, 11:52 PM

Poor squeamish TIF :(

Shit, dont even tell me that the sound of a drill alone doesn't make you cringe? But just the idea that he kept her in pain every day for a month just for his own lustful desires for teeth and because he liked to see her in pain. And THEN the Euphoria's agreed to let him have Kagura once a month for "treatment"? Jesus man.. that's some cold blooded shit there.

Squeamish? Hell there are few things in the world that can get my goat, and dentists are one of them.

Tremolo

06-04-2005, 02:55 AM

Shit, dont even tell me that the sound of a drill alone doesn't make you cringe? But just the idea that he kept her in pain every day for a month just for his own lustful desires for teeth and because he liked to see her in pain. And THEN the Euphoria's agreed to let him have Kagura once a month for "treatment"? Jesus man.. that's some cold blooded shit there.

Squeamish? Hell there are few things in the world that can get my goat, and dentists are one of them.

I was joking primarily, also because I was pretty mashed last night when I watched it and typed that post - but yeah, it wasn't pleasant. It actually dawned on me later how ****ed up it really was, what with the guy literally getting moist as he licked the tooth. It's good to see an anime explore the darkest possible depths of humanity as possible and that's partly why this is such a compelling show. Dentists have never really scared me, but the actions of that guy were just beyond wrong. Rubber dancer and Lady Diamond have NOTHING on him.

What affected me even more than that in the episode was the fact that they'd been using injections to stop Kagura from reaching puberty. That was the icing on the cake for me really, and left me wondering just what's going to happen when the effects wear off.

Kiba

06-04-2005, 03:10 PM

I just seen the first episode and MY GOD! IT WAS AMAZING! I feel like picking up my camera and shoot some photos.

MadTrumpet

06-04-2005, 04:34 PM

I was joking primarily, also because I was pretty mashed last night when I watched it and typed that post - but yeah, it wasn't pleasant. It actually dawned on me later how ****ed up it really was, what with the guy literally getting moist as he licked the tooth. It's good to see an anime explore the darkest possible depths of humanity as possible and that's partly why this is such a compelling show. Dentists have never really scared me, but the actions of that guy were just beyond wrong. Rubber dancer and Lady Diamond have NOTHING on him.

What affected me even more than that in the episode was the fact that they'd been using injections to stop Kagura from reaching puberty. That was the icing on the cake for me really, and left me wondering just what's going to happen when the effects wear off.

The dentist was great euphoria, even though he was a questionable choice to actually kill Saiga. His little drills barely did any damage to another euphoria; how was he going to decapitate him? The total lack of concern for Kagura by Suitengu, et al, is so twisted and so damn interesting to watch. Paying her teachers for lesbo sex, dental "treatments", and staving off puberty are all brilliant twists that really build up some sympathy for the girl.

By the way, I never got the sense that she seemed prepubescent. She sure as hell isn't like that 18-year-old girl in Honey & Clover.

Ninja Realist

06-04-2005, 09:28 PM

TypicalIdiotFan

06-04-2005, 11:22 PM

Suitengus power is un-creative and dumb in my opinion, I mean, Telekinesis is the most lame, uncreative, copout ever. You'd think that with the other great Euphoria's, they could think up something better for suitengu, but nooooo, its lame old telekinesis. :P

Did I miss something? When did Suitengu ever show off his power?

And, yeah, I forgot to mention the whole preventing her from reaching puberty thing. I have a feeling that maybe the preventing puberty might have less to do with her physical development as a woman and more to do with preventing her from having children / having a menstral cycle. Though that's a guess. I would think that trying to halt puberty would basically prevent her from growing breasts too.

But This IS Anime™ after all.

Ninja Realist

06-04-2005, 11:42 PM

Remember in Episode 6, when Suitengu killed the diamond lady? He took off his gloves, and used some kind of telekinesis to break her into pieces.

MadTrumpet

06-05-2005, 08:42 PM

Remember in Episode 6, when Suitengu killed the diamond lady? He took off his gloves, and used some kind of telekinesis to break her into pieces.
Or maybe it's less of a "telekinesis" power, and more of a "make things go boom" power. A la Saiga, sans camera.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-05-2005, 09:34 PM

Remember in Episode 6, when Suitengu killed the diamond lady? He took off his gloves, and used some kind of telekinesis to break her into pieces.

I did forget that, but I didn't think it was telekenetics. If that were the case, Saiga would have never gotten away with Kagura.

In fact, I find it odd how little Suitengu has used his powers considering he's had the chance to use it to stop Saiga twice.

Shadowmage

06-05-2005, 09:38 PM

I did forget that, but I didn't think it was telekenetics. If that were the case, Saiga would have never gotten away with Kagura.

In fact, I find it odd how little Suitengu has used his powers considering he's had the chance to use it to stop Saiga twice.
Maybe the reason is related to the fact that he needs machines ("electric shock treatment") in order to boost his cellular activities. In other words, he must use his powers sparingly for the sake of his health.

MadTrumpet

06-05-2005, 10:59 PM

Maybe the reason is related to the fact that he needs machines ("electric shock treatment") in order to boost his cellular activities. In other words, he must use his powers sparingly for the sake of his health.
I got the impression that all the schocking bathtub stuff at the beginning was part of an attempt by the Tennouzou group to purify the "essence" of Euphoria (or something...). Since they don't have Kagura, they are doing their best to figure out how to unleash the Euphoria without her. Suitengu was volunteering himself up for analysis.

Maybe I should rewatch it... I didn't catch it as powering himself up. Though it is odd that he never uses his power, when he has had plenty of opportunity. Seems like stupid villainy to go through every Euphoria henchman you have before bringing out the big gun.

adversary2k

06-05-2005, 11:01 PM

Maybe the reason is related to the fact that he needs machines ("electric shock treatment") in order to boost his cellular activities. In other words, he must use his powers sparingly for the sake of his health.

Even if that is the case (which I'm it is)... I think preventing Saiga from escaping with Kagura is a better use of his power than punishing an underling for her failure. But, hey, that would have killed the story pretty quickly.

As far as the substance over style comments... the first two episodes were great and got me interested, but since then it's been monster of the week or rather, monster of the every-other-week. Something better happen to advance the plot and explain some things instead of just bringing in a new euphoria one week for Saiga to explode the next week.

Shadowmage

06-06-2005, 05:52 AM

Even if that is the case (which I'm it is)... I think preventing Saiga from escaping with Kagura is a better use of his power than punishing an underling for her failure. But, hey, that would have killed the story pretty quickly.

As far as the substance over style comments... the first two episodes were great and got me interested, but since then it's been monster of the week or rather, monster of the every-other-week. Something better happen to advance the plot and explain some things instead of just bringing in a new euphoria one week for Saiga to explode the next week.
I'm guessing that he thought that his underlings could handle Saiga pretty easily. (The classic underestimation of the enemy.)

I also think that the anime is following the whole villain of the week theme. Unless they change this soon, the anime could just turn out to be mediocre.

Tremolo

06-06-2005, 06:28 AM

I also think that the anime is following the whole villain of the week theme. Unless they change this soon, the anime could just turn out to be mediocre.

Eh, I'm not worried about that. A lot of anime start this way before hitting more of an ongoing story at the halfway point or so. The Euphoria's all have their purpose in the narrative - to test and advance Saiga's powers and to show the different effects of the Euphoria factor on others. It's doing it quite well, in my opinion as more and more story is being built up in the background.

Shadowmage

06-06-2005, 06:36 AM

Eh, I'm not worried about that. A lot of anime start this way before hitting more of an ongoing story at the halfway point or so. The Euphoria's all have their purpose in the narrative - to test and advance Saiga's powers and to show the different effects of the Euphoria factor on others. It's doing it quite well, in my opinion as more and more story is being built up in the background.
The story is building up (quite nicely I might add), but it doesn't change the fact that the Euphorias can be interchanged with basically any other Euphoria. The Euphorias so far haven't been able to distinguish themselves except for their ability and their strange fetish. Psychologically, these characters are extremely shallow (or extremely disturbed), which bothers me. Oh well, as long as the story progresses as nicely as it does now, I'm happy.

By the way, does anybody else think that Kagura's tumor has anything relating to her prebuscent treatment? (I'm sure that the underground organization already knows about her tumor, and I'll bet that she (or Saiga) may eventually face a choice between life or freedom.)

Tremolo

06-06-2005, 06:42 AM

The story is building up (quite nicely I might add), but it doesn't change the fact that the Euphorias can be interchanged with basically any other Euphoria. The Euphorias so far haven't been able to distinguish themselves except for their ability and their strange fetish. Psychologically, these characters are extremely shallow (or extremely disturbed), which bothers me. Oh well, as long as the story progresses as nicely as it does now, I'm happy.

That's true, just with the with the exception that each Euphoria seems to be more f*cked up than the one before. Unlike some other monster-of-the-week fare, they're all actually extremely intriguing and interesting to watch, despite being utterly repellant.

By the way, does anybody else think that Kagura's tumor has anything relating to her prebuscent treatment? (I'm sure that the underground organization already knows about her tumor, and I'll bet that she (or Saiga) may eventually face a choice between life or freedom.)

It could well be, although if I know these kind of things the tumor could be what is enabling her powers in the first place. That doesn't seem too likely, but it's just a thought.

Datsun

06-11-2005, 04:24 AM

I think the fact each Euphorian is screwed in the head and shallow, along with the not so subtle slogan, that money can buy anyone off shows a pretty cynical side to the writers thoughts on humanity - or perhaps just how ham-fisted their approach is portraying these thoughts.

The show for me though is still interesting, with the action and powers being somewhat cool, but the underlying pessimism of the lesser qualities of people is almost insulting at times.

icelava

06-11-2005, 05:05 AM

I just hope this anime doesn't have the "villain of the week" theme. (They could at least develop the bad guys besides just they are insane-which they ARE.)Unfortunately, yes it is. Euphoria of the fortnight, rather. Now we're just waiting for Saiga to heroically slaughter all of the level bosses (who get sicker by the increment) before meeting the final boss Suitengu.

This show has appears rendered in an old Pentium 1 machine - the animation frame rate is appalling even for a TV series.

Tremolo

06-18-2005, 04:40 PM

And according to ANN (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/) Funimation have licensed Speed Grapher!

Colour me not surprised. I'm pleased though, they'll most likely treat it well.

Kiba

06-18-2005, 05:38 PM

And according to ANN (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/) Funimation have licensed Speed Grapher!

Colour me not surprised. I'm pleased though, they'll most likely treat it well.
I find that to be an odd paring. I thought it would have gone to Pioneer/ Geneon.

Tremolo

06-18-2005, 05:44 PM

I find that to be an odd paring. I thought it would have gone to Pioneer/ Geneon.

Nah, FUNI said they were "going GONZO" this year so I expected this for quite a while. They already picked up Basilisk so I guess Trinity Blood is next on the list.

soundchazer

06-18-2005, 06:41 PM

People can say whatever they want about Gonzo, but their anime are really popular in the Western hemisphere.

then again... so is Jim Carrey.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-18-2005, 10:12 PM

Well, no more Speed Grapher for a bit.

/me makes a note to axe the show from his weekly downlo... acquisition list.

Too bad too, this show is something I'm gonna have a tough time waiting for more for. I will, of course.

Shadowmage

06-19-2005, 04:16 PM

Due to Funimation's connection with CN, this will most likely air on Adult Swim. I doubt that this can go on air without some editing though... As long as the dubs are good, I'll probably get the DVDs.

Tremolo

06-20-2005, 02:53 AM

Due to Funimation's connection with CN, this will most likely air on Adult Swim. I doubt that this can go on air without some editing though...

Oh I really doubt that. This show is just a bit too "adult" if you will and there'd be far, far too much that would need to eb chopped out to make it suitable for broadcast on Cartoon Network. I'm expecting the DVD release for this will be marketed at the more mature anime fans.

Well, no more Speed Grapher for a bit.

* TypicalIdiotFan makes a note to axe the show from his weekly downlo... acquisition list.

Too bad too, this show is something I'm gonna have a tough time waiting for more for. I will, of course.

Oh I'm sorry to hear that - I really enjoyed reading your thoughts on the show.

I however have no such morality. ;)

Episode 9.

Another set-up episode (for what looks like an amazing action-packed next episode) with some vital character moments and some highly necessary and interesting backstory on Shinsen and Kagura.

Clothes shopping, bargaining and some useful information on how Euphoria's orgasm. Or don't. Or something

soundchazer

06-20-2005, 05:33 AM

Oh I really doubt that. This show is just a bit too "adult" if you will and there'd be far, far too much that would need to eb chopped out to make it suitable for broadcast on Cartoon Network. I'm expecting the DVD release for this will be marketed at the more mature anime fans.

Oh I'm sorry to hear that - I really enjoyed reading your thoughts on the show.

I however have no such morality. ;)

Episode 9.

Another set-up episode (for what looks like an amazing action-packed next episode) with some vital character moments and some highly necessary and interesting backstory on Shinsen and Kagura.

Clothes shopping, bargaining and some useful information on how Euphoria's orgasm. Or don't. Or something

Same here... needless to say that I do support the companies who buy the rights... if the show is good.

Nice setup episode... questions answered, new questions asked. Good to see that not every episode will have a new euphoria character in it.

Tremolo

06-20-2005, 07:14 AM

Same here... needless to say that I do support the companies who buy the rights... if the show is good.

Oh absolutely. If Speed Grapher (or any other show for that matter) continuess being this good then I'll more than likely be purchasing the DVD's. Funi are extremely lax with fansubs anyway, they consider them to be free advertising in a way. They could have easily been pissy bitches with such a huge property like FMA when they licensed it, but no they left the fansubbers alone and as such enabled shitloads of good reviews and positive word of mouth once the series was done, causing high sale of the DVD's and brilliant ratings for its broadcast on Adult Swim.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-20-2005, 02:07 PM

Oh I'm sorry to hear that - I really enjoyed reading your thoughts on the show.

I however have no such morality. ;)

Ahh... what the ****... still watching Ah My Goddess after all. I'll stop as soon as the DVDs get released. Review later.

Shadowmage

06-20-2005, 07:17 PM

MadTrumpet

06-20-2005, 10:36 PM

Episode 9... (Is it just me or does the animation quality slip? I can start to see the character cels not blending in with the background.)
Good episode overall... Love the ending...

Score +1 for "brain tumor" statement.
There were a couple scenes in this episode where the background seemed to stick out like a sore thumb. I'm not sure if it was inappopriate CGI or what, but something in the background just did not have the same look as everything else on scene. Otherwise, I felt the animation was at its typical sub-par level and hasn't really gotten any worse in the last 5 episodes.

icelava

06-21-2005, 05:46 AM

Indeed. Finally an episode with some background and much needed substance. Let's hope Suitengu is not gonna be a disappointment.

Tremolo

06-22-2005, 12:01 PM

MadTrumpet

06-22-2005, 09:18 PM

Episode 10.

Mixed feelings. I like that we're still getting a bit more background on things - I guess the whole genetics lab thing will play a bigger part later.

Sadly the Saiga/Suitengu confrontation was pretty brief but vaguely nifty in a stiffly-animated kind of way. Suitengu's powers are definitely the strangest, but for my money, the coolest so far.

I really hate Ginza. And the ending theme. And I wish the animation would pick up just a bit. But not a bad episode overall.
I liked this episode. Not a whole lot happened, but I'm enjoying this little break away from a new Euphoria-of-the-week. Suitengu's powers are great; blood as a weapon is pretty novel, though I don't recall anything of the sort happening when he killed Diamond Lady.

What's the problem with Ginza? As one of the only non-Euphorias in the show, I rather like her. She's got that whole strong woman vibe, with someone to fight for who doesn't really reciprocate. Smells like a recipe for melodramatic sacrifice later in the series.

Tremolo

06-23-2005, 02:47 AM

What's the problem with Ginza? As one of the only non-Euphorias in the show, I rather like her. She's got that whole strong woman vibe, with someone to fight for who doesn't really reciprocate. Smells like a recipe for melodramatic sacrifice later in the series.

You have a point, although I'd care a lot more if we were actually given some proper backstory to her and Saiga's "relationship". As it stands, there's very little to her apart from her stupid costume and her constant threats of "self defense" which was funny in the first episode but not anymore. Whilst I like the obsessions and neuroses of the cast, her fixation with Saiga is both annoying and baffling and her actions at the end of episode 10 just pissed me off, which was probably not the intended effect.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-24-2005, 06:40 PM

Episode 10:

I like where this show is going. Secrets within secrets and everybody has an agenda. I think the animation took a notch up this time too, maybe it's because of Suitengu's involvement.

Shadowmage

06-25-2005, 07:05 PM

Episode 10.I really hate Ginza. And the ending theme. And I wish the animation would pick up just a bit. But not a bad episode overall.
This is one anime that I look foward to see a dubbed version of the ending song.

Episode 10's animation fluxuated a lot. The action scene was great, but nothing jaw dropping. Can't wait for the next episode.

Taleweaver

06-26-2005, 04:09 AM

It's weird... Speed Grapher started like a Stanley Kubrick tribute, and now it's more like something from the X-Men comic books. At least Suitengu's not going to be one of the "monsters of the week" euphoria that have popped up (and died) every two episodes so far, and Saiga can't kill him as easily as the others. I'm still itching to know what happens when Kagura reaches puberty, what that brain tumor of her will do and, of course, what other surprises the plot has in store. There's already been quite a few nice twists, and unlike Tamashii, I'd consider this one of GONZO's successes.

icelava

06-26-2005, 04:12 AM

I'd consider this one of GONZO's successes.It's a mixed bag to me. With more rotten stalks than aromic flowers at the moment.

Tremolo

06-26-2005, 04:14 AM

Episode 10's animation fluxuated a lot. The action scene was great, but nothing jaw dropping. Can't wait for the next episode.

Agreed.

The bit where Euphoria!Suitengu rose up and seemed to just nudge the hanging DNA-sculpture thing to make it fall down was one of the most-pull-you-out-of-the-action examples of WTFery I've seen from the series so far.

And apparently we're getting new opening titles with episode 12. Same song though.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-26-2005, 04:15 AM

There's already been quite a few nice twists, and unlike Tamashii, I'd consider this one of GONZO's successes.

What I really like is how each person really is sort of a good guy and a bad guy in and of themselves. Suitengu is a baddie from Kagura's perspective, but even he hides things from his own "Master" and from his underlings. The Euphorias seem to be mostly selfish anarchistic types who don't particularly want to work for Suitengu, they just want to do their own thing, which is how he controls them. Ginza is a fascinating character. She wants Saiga, and that's about it. She'll do literally anything to get him. She is the perfect "crooked cop". Abuses power and authority, makes deals with the bad guys to get what she wants, and has no particular regard for human life other then her own and Saiga's. She's definately worth watching more then some of the "baddies" so far, because she could turn out to be the "baddest baddie" of them all. Saiga himself seems to have had a run in with reality in the last episode. He has an attraction for Kagura, but it's through his Euphoria powers. He wants to take pictures of her; it's aching at him to take a picture of something he finds so enamouring. The only thing stopping him is tha the knows it'll kill her. But is that what he wants in secret? To "get off" by taking pictures of someone at that moment of death? An image that no one else can possibly ever capture but him? Boggles the mind. Oh but so fun.

Anyway, I am looking forward to more of this

Taleweaver

06-26-2005, 05:19 AM

Tremolo

06-26-2005, 05:37 AM

The opening titles have already been slightly different during each episode, often including the "villain of the week" or specific scenes from the current show.

I mean totally brand new ones, but then I did hear this through the Speed Grapher LiveJournal community. I may have to check the RAW out just to be sure.

EDIT: And we do indeed. And it's fugging brilliant. Why we didn't have it right from the beginning I'm not sure, but I'm guessing that'll probably be recitified with the DVD release.

loner

06-26-2005, 05:40 AM

And apparently we're getting new opening titles with episode 12.
The opening titles have already been slightly different during each episode, often including the "villain of the week" or specific scenes from the current show.

Yes but this time we are getting a totally different opening title. It doesn't just have a bunch of scenes of of the show crumbled together, but a more orthodox opening.

Because of this, I'm hoping that Euphoria-of-the-week has ended with Suitengu.

Shadowmage

06-26-2005, 04:13 PM

Yes but this time we are getting a totally different opening title. It doesn't just have a bunch of scenes of of the show crumbled together, but a more orthodox opening.

Because of this, I'm hoping that Euphoria-of-the-week has ended with Suitengu.
We still have the piano teacher...

TypicalIdiotFan

07-04-2005, 02:21 AM

Episdoe 11:

YES!

SEX! INTRIGUE! SICKOS! This is what Speed Grapher is all about! What a great setup episode for future events!

Did I mention there was SEX!? YES! SEX EVERYWHERE! BWA HA HA! God I love it. These little dashes of human perversion are so necessary to put this show over the top from a normal anime to a truly fascinating one. I love how they can show two people ****ing, but dear God you are FORBIDDEN from showing nipplage!

I dunno what I enjoy more, the sex itself, or the inconsistency of the censors on this show. =)

soundchazer

07-06-2005, 01:33 PM

True... it almost felt like softcore porn at times. And the plot thinckens...

I'm itching to see Saiga's reaction once he wakes up.

TypicalIdiotFan

07-06-2005, 01:46 PM

True... it almost felt like softcore porn at times. And the plot thinckens...

I don't look at it as pornographic. I think there's some shock value to it, but it's more of a reflection of the animalistic behaviors of these people. The ones with money "get what they want". The ones with power "get what they want". It all comes down to the theory of power corrupting, and the biggest proof of corruption is wonton sexual deviancy.

I'm itching to see Saiga's reaction once he wakes up.

I like Ginza's frustration, personally. She has no idea that he's a Euphoria and has certain needs for sexual climax. I'm glad they dropped that little tidbit on us an episode ago, because it's becoming amusingly useful.

Suitengu continues to surprise me. I thought maybe he was just going to turn into the all bad baddie, but it seems as though perhaps he's not just a world dominating type. Maybe his power or pain somehow relates to what he was reflecting on and what he did in this particular episode. I like multi-faceted characters, especially villains.

soundchazer

07-06-2005, 01:49 PM

Yeah... Ginza's furstration was a good final touch to that picture. She is in way over her head and yet she thinks she is under control. This is a character we need to watch closely. Hopefully they won't turn her into one of those "bullies who shy away once the situation gets tough" types, and have her rise to the ocassion, whatever her motivation may be.

TypicalIdiotFan

07-06-2005, 01:56 PM

Oh hell yeah. She is Michael Chiklis' character in The Shield + Denzel Washington from Training Day... with boobs. The perfect corrupt cop badass chick. I liked her from episode 1, and I'm glad they've given her quite a bit of play to demonstrate for us just what kind of a belligerant self interesting bitch she is. The best part is, I could see her becoming a stalking mad-woman against Kagura, and it would be an awesome angle. No Euphoria could possibly match the vindictive psychotic sickness of a jealous woman.

It would be brilliant.

soundchazer

07-11-2005, 12:56 PM

Episode 12:

In the end, Shinzen proves to be the most human of all the characters. Frail, jealous, fearful, grateful, filled with remorse and heartache.

TypicalIdiotFan

07-12-2005, 12:47 AM

Episode 12:

This may be the only episode where, except for the intro and exit, you never see Saiga at all. Which is fine. The other characters had to do some things to kick this mama in gear.

I got my questions answered on Suitengu. The new intro was kinda spiffy. I do find it humorous how the first intro was basically clips from the first couple of episodes, plus Euphoria of the (bi)week shots, and yet this new one has brand new animation that not only is nice to look at, but is a glaring reminder from GONZO that they can do better animation then what we've been seeing thus far. In other words, I think they spent more money on this intro's animation budget then on the rest of the show combined.

TypicalIdiotFan

07-17-2005, 12:50 AM

Episode 13:

I really wish they'd give :45 minutes to this show. The quickness of some of the scenes is just starting to ruin the feel. The whole explaination of the powers of the Euphoria was just too damned fast. Also, some of the battles between the Euphorias could use a little more spacing out.

Ah well, still one of the best stories created this year. Finally got a new exit song too. Thank GOD...

TypicalIdiotFan

07-23-2005, 11:56 AM

Episode 14:

It's a ... nice day for a... WHITE WEDDING!

Eat it Suitengu! Biotch!

Shadowmage

07-23-2005, 12:01 PM

Episode 14

We are back on the "Euphoria of the week" schedule. (Although I must admit the plot is moving along quite nicely)

That priest reminds me of the one from Hellsing... Except he has a fetish for electricity... And he looks like some corny impression of Iron Man when he unleashes his powers.

soundchazer

07-23-2005, 01:21 PM

Episode 13 and 14:

Well... characters are starting to show their true colors.

Saiga finally realized what we all knew all along. Ginza ended up being what I hoped she wouldn't become... just another jealous bitch and bully who cowers when things get tough.

And still, the characters are wonderful. You get immersed in their personalities.

TypicalIdiotFan

07-24-2005, 12:12 AM

Shinzen ended up being what I hoped she wouldn't become... just another jealous bitch and bully who cowers when things get tough.

I think you meant Ginza.

soundchazer

07-24-2005, 02:34 AM

I think you meant Ginza.

Yep...sorry... long day.

TypicalIdiotFan

07-24-2005, 03:02 AM

Yep...sorry... long day.

Totally understandable. And although Ginza did kind of lose some 'cool' points in episode 13, her bit in the intro with the gun, and the crotch, and the boobies, and the blush... yeah.. that was just too ****ing good. Someone at GONZO needs a cookie for that little bit right there.

ninja velmor

07-30-2005, 03:23 AM

i just got done watching ep 13, and its getting better and better. i was wondering if anyone knew when ep 15 will be released.

Tremolo

07-30-2005, 03:48 AM

So, I've caught up.

And the animation is absolutely killing this show.

The fight in episode was choreographed well. It was original and had the potential to be pretty exciting. However, the animation just sucks the life out of the show whenever the pace quickens. I've never, ever seen such sluggish action sequences before in such a modern series, ESPECIALLY a GONZO show. I guess because this is aimed more at adults and goes out pretty late that its budget isn't the highest, but that's honestly no excuse. Berserk was the same and that had pretty great animation considering. All the verve and style this show has the potential of having just isn't there. The action sequences are dreadful, and I've also noticed how plain the character animation is. There's very little shading on them and they lack depth.

I don't know if GONZO are trying to prove anything here, but it really pains me when highly inventive and potentially exciting action sequences are wrecked by low frame-rates and shoddy animation.

I haven't been overly impressed by the recent episodes (where was the drama in Shinsen's death?), but episode fifteen looks pretty intriguing - following up on that (somewhat out of place) bit in twelve where the guy disappeared on the rowing boat.

ninja velmor

07-30-2005, 03:57 AM

yeah the animation isnt that great at all, if only they could use the animation thats in the ending theme song.

Itachi Uchiha

08-04-2005, 09:05 PM

Episode (15) Saiga :love2: Kagara romance kicks in.

The whole episode is about their love for each other. What surprised me was how realistic I found their relationship to be if you take out all the supernatural crap, etc, etc. Their conversation, gestures and attitude all reminded me of previous relationships of mine. I found it do be a nice touch of romantic realism, which you rarely, if ever see in an anime. :love:

Other notes:
-Episode revolves around a common story
-The monster of the week theme continues
-I thought the defeat of the euphoria was weak at best but kept with whole love concept of the episode

~bub-bye~
:dogrun:

ninja velmor

08-04-2005, 10:45 PM

TypicalIdiotFan

08-09-2005, 04:50 PM

Episode 15:

Can you believe I've had this "acquired" for a while now but haven't watched it? Sheesh. I'm so busy lately.

Saiga seems to be becoming obsessed with Kagura and he drops a bit of "foreshadowing" with how I think this show is going ot end. Kagura sure can do quite a bit with a fever. Hell, when I had a fever, I didn't want to move at all.

This time the Euphoria is a bit odd. She doesn't seem particularly malicious or evil, nor even selfish, just sorta tragic. I figured the death was appropriate. Although the scene with the blue rain, we get to see the Hermaphrodite With the Schnoz from the side, and he/she adds more confusion to the mix of his/her gender. Look like boobs to me. Sorta. Hell, I don't know anymore. They're sure keeping that whole thing mysterious.

Linuts

08-28-2005, 12:59 PM

I know I don't even post here at all but anyway...

Ep 16:

I was so hoping for a MasterCard reference by the end of this episode ^^.

Otherwise, it's mostly recap, but the beginning and ending show a few interesting plot points. Suitengu is not a complete bastard... Even though he still is :P. And just what is the connection between Saiga and Suitengu?

Shadowmage

08-28-2005, 05:05 PM

Episode 16

It seems that Suitengu acutally has some human emotions. GONZO is doing a really good job stringing the characters together with many plot twists and revelations. Overall, this is just a recap, but the accounting measurements was unique.

loner

08-28-2005, 05:15 PM

Ep. 16

They know how to do a recap. A recap is not totally useless if you manage to do it creatively, and add some plot developments to it as well. That was one of the better recaps I've seen.

Suitengu's a combination of several human beings right? I think I know where one of the hand and the head comes from...

soundchazer

08-28-2005, 05:49 PM

Interesting ending... it seems Saiga and Suitengu share a common pass.
Can't wait to see what happens next.

Kiba

08-30-2005, 05:15 PM

Episode 17: This episode is completely dedicated to Suitengu's past, we learn how he got his Euphoria powers, and how his relationships with his henchmen and Shinsen came to be. Hmm it seems Suitengu is human after all. All in all an interesting episode.

Linuts

08-30-2005, 09:36 PM

So Suitengu has a sad past after all. An awful lot was answered in this ep.

Like that nose guy... well...

He actually doesn't have a nose. No wonder his desire is to smell again. Nifty. He really should try not looking so feminine though... Otherwise history will repeat itself... If you catch my drift...

Shadowmage

08-31-2005, 05:15 PM

HOLY CRAP a GONZO anime that actually has a genuinely deep antagonist!

Suitengu literally has just become my favorite character in the series. I just hope they don't botch the remaining 9 episodes.

Moe

09-02-2005, 05:35 PM

Speed Grapher 17:

Wow, what an episode. Knowing now about Suitengu's past, I wonder what would happen if Saiga knew. Would he continue to stand against Suitengu's overall plan of thrashing the wealthy and powerful? I think he'd still be opposed to whatever Suitengu is using Kagura for, but I'd find it difficult to argue with or have emnity for someone who has gone through what he went through.

Like Tide Line Blue, the lines of "Good" and "Bad" have been greyed. Is Suitengu really a bad guy, or simply angry and vengeful over something that would impact any one of us in traumatic and terrifying ways? Do we now feel sorry for Shinsen, who, despite her own tragedies, was involved (albeit not directly) with perpetuating another tragedy upon Suitengu?

Muddy the waters have become. The only thing we can hold onto with any assurance is that Saiga and Kagura want to be together and want all this to end. Will that desire trump out the desire for a very understandable revenge?

Speed Grapher's writers continue to amaze me. I didn't think this show could get any better.

Seeing the origins of "No Nose" Louie and the henchmen was a wonderful touch. Linuts mentions what might happen if history repeats itself (inferring that if by being femmy he might lose something masculine), I put this to thought: What if it hasn't already happened? We didn't get to see down there, we only saw his face and the disfigurement there. We saw another man, who obviously maliciously sexually assaulted him, get his just deserts. Perhaps Tsujido acts femmy because he is running from that traumatic moment. Or perhaps he really feels less like a man now?

Leaving things intentionally vague is wonderful.

* * *

another review. you know who its from... yeah thats right.... TIF....

loner

09-22-2005, 10:52 PM

Ep. 17 (yeah I know...)

Suitengu is THE best Gonzo villain ever. He's story was extremely well portrayed. I always thought Speed Grapher is at its best when it went into flashback mode to the war. There's a haunting beauty to those scenes that just enthralls you.

Nevertheless, what he has done so far can't be justified much, especially if Kagura reminds him of Yui. What he subjected her to, especially the wedding, is kind of sick if taking into this context. I do however understand his reasons for killing Shinsen and screwing the company. Shinsen is another tragic character like Suitengu, but that doesn't mean they don't have to pay for what they've done.

So Tsujidou and the other 2 guys were Suitengu's first henchmen. Tsujidou's story is sad in itself. I do hope we get to know more about him/her.

Major Tom

09-25-2005, 10:40 PM

I saw eps. 1 & 2 at Manifest, and I have to say that Im rather torn on this one. It was really disturbing, especialially in the fetish/sexual deviation side of things and that kind of disturbing normallly turns me off, but at the same time it's caught a hold my curiousity, and I kinda want to see how it all ends.......and reading through this thread has only deepened my curiousity. Crap, I hate I don't wanna but I do decisions....