Honey & Clover = Tasty ^^ [Archive]

Linuts

05-02-2005, 04:35 PM

Wheee! We have another contender for this season's best anime:

http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1688,isjecv,hachimitsu_to_c.html

The first episode was hilarious! We get introduced to a bunch of fun characters. Not to mention the 18 year old girl with the body of a fifth grader will have lolicons drooling everywhere. This show is wacked... Almost "Futakoi Alternative" wacked (without the explosions though). And it's supposedly a drama series. Very interesting. Animation is pretty fluid and has a cool style.

I'll leave the more in depth essay review to TIF or whoever. But for now, watch this! :D

PerfectDeath

05-02-2005, 05:20 PM

XD AHAHAHA
i agree this was funny stuff... but i was very creeped out by the little girl... i mean i didn't know she was 18 O_o
SHE LOOKS 10!! >_<
but it's still damn funny ^_^
if it gets too creepy, then i'd do what i did for loveless... stop watching. Itsa free world were i live.

Frog

05-02-2005, 05:23 PM

Saw the first episode and my reaction was that of...meh...
It was funny at parts but the pacing was so terrible it was almost unwatchable. Other then that though nothing that really stood out though except the kid who is supposed to be 18 but hey, welcome to anime.

A-R@D

05-02-2005, 06:02 PM

Well overall for a first episode it wasnt bad. The artwork was nice, the music was appealing without being overbearing. We get a vague Idea of the personalities of some of the main characters. Overall I approved of it because it seems as if it wasnt following many of the romance anime steriotypes. Hopefully this will continue.

nixie1512

05-02-2005, 09:45 PM

Oh wow, I love this! The art and story has a very calming effect... And it's hillarious! XD This is so.. different :D Morita is the <3

Piece of news:
The first episode of Honey and Clover was aired 4/14 on the new Fuji TV Anime slot NOITAMINA. The series started with a rating of 3.8% - an unprecedented number in the late night anime time slot. For Fuji Tv, this is the highest rating for a late night anime, surpassing even the numbers for the first episode of Samurai Champloo.

Ruthran

05-02-2005, 11:07 PM

Loved it, especially when the shady dude gets woken up for his class and he's like "Thankyou for waking me up, now let me sleep for just 5 more minutes." then totally zonks out again. That reminds me so much of me and my flatmates when I was at Uni LOL Little miss 18 is a bit scary but as long as things don't get too 'intimate' I don't think it'll bother me.

soundchazer

05-02-2005, 11:49 PM

thre things I think I know after watching the first episode:

1. The character designs for the girls and the backgrounds is superb.
2. The overall vibe reminds me a bit of Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou, albeit having a tighter storyline than YKK.
3. Notwithstanding a defined love story, this anime is still a bit too loose.

Ninja Realist

05-03-2005, 12:48 PM

I really like the way the characters interact and the general feel of the show, it all feels very realistic and down to earth,not many anime have that feel. Thats the main thing I liked about the first episode of this show.

TypicalIdiotFan

05-03-2005, 03:32 PM

Well, Linuts is leaving it up to me, so here we go.

Episode 1:

Intro

What the **** was that? Y'know what? Hands down, this is the best intro of the new season. Yeah, it doesn't have Duran Duran (and in fact, the song blows monkey balls), but some of that imagery was so disturbing and yet so mind bogglingly entertaining. A dish that looks like a pair of panties with a rather conspicuous substance around the "crotch"... a seasame seed fried "hand" that writes out "help" in ketchup.... and an homage to Tim Burton's "Beetlejuice".

Classic!

Part A

So far this show makes me smile. Not in a really "funny funny hilarious" sense, but more in a "this is nice and silly" sense. It reminds me a lot of Here is Greenwood. You've got a ragtag collection of weirdos living in one apartment complex, and who all seem to get along like it's a dorm more then an apartment. It seems very random so far, which is fine. It'll eventually get around to explaining all this shit, I'm sure.

Eyecatch

Bah. White out / White in eyecatch? Lame.

Part B

With a show like this, you have to make everybody weird, and I am glad they did that. I mean, technically speaking, everybody is a "normal" person. They're not superhuman, they're not gifted with odd powers, they're not psychics or anything. They're just people, college people, and even worse, they're all "art" college people. Art + College + People = Weird. There really isn't anyway to get around it. Some like to speculate on the "eccentricity" of artists. I just say they did too much weed in college. No weed here, but you get my drift.

College does things to people.

Anyway, so you've got a pack of art majors (in one form or another) basically being about as strange, but normal, as expected. Their teachers aren't exactly normal either. The girls have their moments. And then we get Haru. Now, Morita, who has to be the weirdest one of all, is the only one who could possibly come up with such an obscure joke. But it was definately funny.

And yes, no two ways about it, Haru looks about 10. Im sure this isn't some lolicon experiment though, because everybody else is already too weird to throw in that kind of shit.

Exit

Calm and refined. The hell is an exit like this doing in a show like this?

Overall

Well, it's interesting. Like I said, it reminds me a lot of Here is Greenwood with all it's characters being odd, especially to each other. So I should probably enjoy it. There is virtually zero explaination of anything and no plot yet, which I hope will be coming. It's entertaining, almost on a level of Futakoi Alternative, but not quite as laugh inducing. In short, a nice little random show to watch with a grin.

Scores

Interest: 3 / 5 - I'll keep watching it, but they'd better do something soon.
Overall: 4 / 5 - Good first episode. Nice and weird. If you weren't going "WTF?" by the end of the intro, you should be by the end of the first episode.

loner

05-04-2005, 02:51 AM

What's up with all the random, wacked shows this season? First we get Dokuro-chan, then Futakoi Alternative, now this. And yes, the OP is perhaps one of the best in anime history. Instead of a bunch of characters posing and doing god-knows-what, we get wacked food. The crab seriously scared me at the end. Brilliant. Morita is hilarious in every scene. If Hagu is 18, then I'm 32.

This is one of the best season of anime in recent history. So far most of the shows are showing great potential.

Tremolo

05-04-2005, 10:37 AM

Very good. I'm looking forward to seeing how this develops, espcially the romance aspect - but what made it so interesting was the interaction between the male characters, most of which had me laughing out loud. I adore the character designs and the slightly muted, hazy animation style which suits the mood very well. I shall stick with this.

"Noooo mooore!"

nixie1512

05-06-2005, 10:15 AM

Didn't like episode 2 too much. It's all Huga's fault! She scares the shit out of me :( Morita is as gorgeous as ever :D Still no idea what's going on around, does this has any other plot besides watching how students go through life everyday?

Tremolo

05-06-2005, 10:45 AM

Having seen episode two I've decided Morita is my hero.

Less funny than the first episode but it seems to be going somewhere good. I like.

Ruthran

05-06-2005, 07:42 PM

Having seen episode two I've decided Morita is my hero.

Heh, I agree.
Laughed my ass off at the description of his website with it's redirection and banner exploitation goodness :D

TypicalIdiotFan

05-06-2005, 08:30 PM

does this has any other plot besides watching how students go through life everyday?

Nah, that would never Azumanga Daioh ****ing work. ;)

Heh, I agree.
Laughed my ass off at the description of his website with it's redirection and banner exploitation goodness

Apparently Morita gets his webpage ideas from Akhbar. ;)

Episode 2:

Much more surreal then the first episode, which is fine. We get to see more of the other people running around doing things. And for the second episode in a row, we get some sort of background "image" song serenely playing over a few scenes of character interaction. The way this show is paced is so odd, but I have fallen so much in love with the characters in only two episodes that I don't care.

"My guardian angel is Gates Allmighty!" - Best quote for this show yet.

Linuts

05-06-2005, 09:33 PM

This:

http://asip.tyrdium.com/honcloversc01.jpg

+

Interesting Characters

=

WINZ!

Is Hagu really 18? She certainly doesn't act her age. Must've been due to a life of confinement? o_O

TypicalIdiotFan

05-06-2005, 09:47 PM

Nah, she's 18, but she's intentionally "Loli".

Which is partially why Morita is making so much money off the art. The "Maniacs" are all over it. I was waiting for someone to smack the geek in the bad suit with the glasses for lusting after the foot mold. Seriously. I'd have just swatted him on the back of the head. Hard.

nixie1512

05-06-2005, 11:15 PM

LoL I love it when they add such random stuff :D

And for the second episode in a row, we get some sort of background "image" song serenely playing over a few scenes of character interaction.

Episode 3 has yet another insert song :) (well, if my source did not lie to me).

heffer

05-14-2005, 03:02 AM

Episode three was sweet, funny, and kinda sad... Just what I would expect from this show. It also is slowly introducing the characters lifes more, can't wait to find out about Morita's (I think thats his name) secret life.

TypicalIdiotFan

05-14-2005, 04:05 AM

God Morita's a dick. ;)

It's pretty cool how you can have character interactions that don't automatically turn into romantic ones. Morita's consolation of Yamada is a fine example of that, if you want to call that consoling...

Frog

05-14-2005, 01:18 PM

If morita wasnt in this, then there would be no reason to watch.

With that said im really liking the balance or comedy and drama so this is easily taking the sleeper hit of the season award.

Linuts

05-14-2005, 08:44 PM

This show is really growing on me... Mainly because my interest for each character grows with it. Especially Morita! He just becomes more unpredictable in each episode. It's hard to tell whether he really is a dick, or just plain insensitive :D.

Also, + points to the soundtrack. Yet another insert song in this new ep.

Shadowmage

05-16-2005, 07:38 PM

The animation quality resembles that of the early 90s...
BUT WHO CARES!
The characters are holding up this anime... I see a lot of potential for this one.
Interest: 5/5

soundchazer

05-16-2005, 07:45 PM

I fail to see how animation of the early 90s is a bad thing.

In fact, one thing I love about this anime is the character design and coloring.

Shadowmage

05-16-2005, 07:48 PM

I fail to see how animation of the early 90s is a bad thing.

In fact, one thing I love about this anime is the character design and coloring.

The coloring is unique and it does create the ambience well; however, I think that most people will see this as a bad thing. I don't really care since it works for this anime. (The animation definitely has the "old school" feel to it.)

loner

05-16-2005, 08:08 PM

Everything looks gorgeous. The watercolor background creates the perfect mood for such a serene yet psychotic anime.

ROCOCO~!!!!!!!!!!!!

What's next? Mayama yelling DADA!!!!?

Shadowmage

05-16-2005, 09:22 PM

Everything looks gorgeous. The watercolor background creates the perfect mood for such a serene yet psychotic anime.

ROCOCO~!!!!!!!!!!!!

What's next? Mayama yelling DADA!!!!?
Personally, I thought everything looked very relaxed and cute. The lack of sharp /thick lines as well as the use of dull colors create this effect. The modern superdeformed expressions are priceless to watch on this type of animation style.

soundchazer

05-22-2005, 08:35 PM

Just watched episode 4. All I can say is that this anime has a way of putting a grin on my face and lift my spirirt.

Linuts

05-22-2005, 10:47 PM

I can't get enough of Morita. He seems to show so much enthusiasm in making everyone suffer, while still looking out for them at the same time.

I really like how well the characters are developing. Looks like there are two love triangles happening in this show (well... maybe one's a square o_O).

P.S: Yamada has killer legs! :D

Itachi Uchiha

05-22-2005, 11:02 PM

You can’t help but love the unique atmosphere of this show and you can’t forget Morita.

Does anyone else think that Morita and Yamada are going to get together eventually? She should give up on Mayama and go for the #1 character Morita!

loner

05-22-2005, 11:47 PM

Morita + Yamada = Total insanity + killer legs

Me likes. Yes, I shall be supporting those two from now on.

The most creative anime of this season, alongside (and maybe even more?) Futakoi Alternative.

Frog

05-23-2005, 02:26 PM

The most creative anime of this season, alongside (and maybe even more?) Futakoi Alternative.
I think your forgetting a show about a nice little angel which should be coming around oh lets say may 25th.

This show makes me feel really awkward and thus i dont know why i continue enjoying it but this is one of the better shows in a season thats quickly becoming the best in years.

loner

05-24-2005, 03:43 AM

Ah, Dokuro-chan. Well, since it releases 2 episodes in several months, it's hard to remember it. I'll replace 'anime' with series then.

Akuhei

05-24-2005, 11:42 AM

lol, I love the scene with the cell phone so much... hilarious xD. That and Morita running away screaming "Adieu!"

TypicalIdiotFan

06-03-2005, 12:23 AM

Episode 5:

This may have been the single best episode of any anime this season, and this is despite it being two half episodes. The first half has Takemoto dealing with something very human; an aspect of humanity and realism that just isn't ever really shown in anime. Anime usually is kind of light hearted for a subject like this, and it's nice to see a Japanese perspective on a timeless struggle that many people have had to deal with in their lives. Not surprisingly, it's not much different from how anybody else deals with it.

The second part had me in tears. Morita drawing incredible works of art in soy sauce, Yamada playing the "loves me, loves me not" game with a poor (dead and cooked) crab's legs, Hagu-chan having issues with her Loliconness, and we learn a life lesson that crying is contagious.

However, this thing between Mayama and Hanamoto-sensei is amazing. Mayama's intense feelings towards Rika is making him do some just damned stupid and jealous things. Hanamoto knows what's going on, and is purposely letting young Mayama go through this without a direct confrontation. We, the viewer, know that nothing is happening there between Hanamoto and Rik, but Hanamoto is deliberately keeping that secret from Mayama, who may not believe him anyway. That whole thing is a powder keg, and it's going to blow eventually. Should be fun!

soundchazer

06-03-2005, 08:42 AM

I agree... this has been a satisfying anime, but episode 5 has been the best so far.

Even though there is a lot of wackiness in the characters, they remain pretty human... people that we could probably meet or know, which is what makes this anime so good.

Ruthran

06-03-2005, 03:50 PM

This has easily become my favourite at the moment. Because it's more or less grounded in reality (as far as anime go) it just stands out from the crowd. I'm finding myself constantly itching for the next episode which is always a good sign. The soy sauce was just brilliant cos it's the sort of weird and wonderfull stuff people end up doing when they're bored in hotels.

Linuts

06-03-2005, 08:30 PM

So far...

Yamada = Killer Legs + Beautiful Breasts

Morita = SoySauce Painter + Money Maker + Allergic Cryer

Hagu = Reluctant Loli

Mayama + Hanamoto+ Rik = DRRRRAAAMA

Takemoto = A realistic character that everyone can relate to

The balance of comedy, drama and human nature analysis are all balanced perfectly. Every character is fun, interesting and realistic. I feel like watching another Kare Kano ^^. This is definitly my favorite show this season thus far ^^.

Edit: When I get a new cell phone, I'm making "Blue River" my ring tone too ^^

Akuhei

06-03-2005, 09:10 PM

hmm... i actually didn't like episode 5 as much as the past ones, no random song plug :P. Yeah so far I'm really enjoying h&c, especially Morita... who is better than all of you :D

Datsun

06-07-2005, 05:18 PM

I can't think of a better contemporary drama than this show at the moment.

In fact, there don't seem to be too many anime in this genre that are based on modern day relationships that doesn't base itself around a romantic pairing. The only other one I can think of is Aishiteru Ze Baby, although it did seem to have more focus on Kippei's and Kokoro's romance, but is still be the only anime I can think of that is comparable to this in regards to genre. (Are there any others?)

It just seems to be played out with a quiet, understated delivery that happens to be powerful as well.

soundchazer

06-07-2005, 05:19 PM

TypicalIdiotFan

06-08-2005, 11:23 PM

Episode 6:

I know why this show is very endearing to me: it's because it has to come to an end sometime.

You see, these people are all college students, and we start out the show with most of them very close to graduating and going out into the real world. This episode reminds us that the happy-go-lucky lifestyles they're leading and the interesting interactions they have can't go on forever. So we've got this incredible mesh of folks with their own stories, who have all already known each other for years, and we're just catching the tail end of all of it.

Anyway, this is a character study, and we've got a diverse pack of individuals with a variety of issues to entertain us. Their comradery and chemistry is what started the show, but the reality of their relationships is what is driving it now. When a show can pull out a line like "Please see to it that she doesn't have to get drunk like that anymore", you know you've got something that goes beyond the superficial levels of human interaction and has broken into a barrier of deep intimacy. Each of these people knows each other's strengths and flaws; they've been together too long not to. There are no secrets about Yamada's feelings for Mayama, and although they've gone unspoken, it has materialized in other ways and has had an effect on their relationship.

I like this. This is the kind of drama that can only be created when you seriously give your characters depth. Sure, there's a lot of slapstick humor, but that's merely to give the show a little lightheartedness. The kind of "stepping away" from the truth so that it doesn't weigh down on you too hard. We all do this in reality, and it's just shown in a more comedic light here.

So far, I can't find a single farking flaw in this show. If Honey & Clover manages to go a good healthy dose of episodes and end in an effective way, then we could be looking at the first 100% rated anime ever.

soundchazer

06-09-2005, 04:59 AM

Linuts

06-09-2005, 08:38 PM

Wow... Just wow...

This show seems to get better in every episode. I agree with TIF and The Doctor here... For an anime of this genre, it seems flawless so far. Everything is just right. No angst, no wing-ding naive couples, just a group of people with a very strong unspoken bond, with great development to back them up. The Japanese has a thing with subtle dramas like this, and this anime really shows it.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-09-2005, 08:55 PM

EDIT: OK... I just watched episode 6. This is as close as you will get to a perfect romantic episode as you can get. If they can keep the intensity level, maybe TIFs theory, while a bit out there, won't be as far off as I first thought.

K, I admit a tad of a gush there before, but I honestly can't find anything to complain about in this show. Even if you find Hagu's character design disturbing, it's not as though it is a distracting point in the show.

At this point, I wont accept any rating not in the high 90s at the least.

Akuhei

06-09-2005, 09:01 PM

I'm really liking Honey and Clover, it's my favorite show that I'm currently watching. I really don't find Hagu's character design to be disturbing ^_^, the story is very well-executed and the seiyuu are all very talented. I shall follow this one to the end!

Griveton

06-10-2005, 05:14 PM

Honey & Clover, without a doubt, is my favorite current anime. Anyone who's ever been to college can relate to the characters, mainly because I can think of at least one person I know who is exactly like them... yes, even like Hagu-chan.

It's hard to say anything that hasn't been touched upon by TIF or SC. Honey & Clover is one of those rare anime where everything you see is so mundane, so typical, so... common, that it somehow hits the right nerve, making you feel great about the way life is. The characters' positions are nothing one envies or longs to be in, because you are already there. Yet, what you see in the anime is a fun, interesting world filled with awesome nobodies. That's when you realize it's your world, it's where you are, and life just seems a little bit brighter when the credits roll.

Yeah, I got carried a bit with my point. I guess the series stuck a sensitive chord in me :)

P.S. Yes, I'm serious about knowing a Hagu-chan. A female friend of mine is a really short (around 5 feet), and with a really cute (as in, young-looking) face, so if she dresses the right way, she can easily pass for a 12-14 year old, even though she's 22. Well, she's not Hagu-chan, since she's a redhead mechatronic engineer instead of a blonde artist, but close enough :D

soundchazer

06-13-2005, 06:36 PM

Nice! A Hagu-chan episode! More trivialities transformed into artform.

This is a ship steadily working its way towards port, while showing us all sorts of shades of blue in the vast sea.

Datsun

06-13-2005, 09:48 PM

Sorry to burst your bubble TIF, but I doubt I would review this anime and put a 100% with the content we have so far. It would be 90+, but I have a hard time thinking I find this anime more satisfying than stuff like Fantastic Children or Now and Then, Here and There.

I guess It depends on what you're looking for in an anime, and also the mood you're in as well. H&C is certainly not epic by any stretch of the imagination, but just goes about showing supposedly mundane situations and turning them into interesting scenes with great dialogue and character development as well. Obviously with this show, it would probably be better to be in a relaxed mood.

I loved the scene where Yamada is looking at Mayama from behind, and Morita is looking at Yamada from behind as well - it sort of just reinforces the whole subtle bond they have between all of them.

TypicalIdiotFan

06-13-2005, 11:57 PM

Linuts

06-14-2005, 09:09 PM

Nice! A Hagu-chan episode! More trivialities transformed into artform.

She looks a lot less disturbing with her hair down. I think she also got the most animation cuts in this episode, especially when she was talking. That's a cool thing. If you're going to focus on a particular character, make 'em look good.

This is a ship steadily working its way towards port, while showing us all sorts of shades of blue in the vast sea.

This feels like a great transition episode... finishing up the stuff that sort of got resolved in the 6th episode, and steering us towards something new, while at the same time realistically taking one character out of the mix in order to make another one grow. There's some very masterful methodology going on here, a great sense of fluid movement from one thing to the next.

What I found most interesting about this episode is how lonesome each character seems when they're seperated. Everybody getting together accidentally to find a four leaved clover for Hagu is just another way of showing us how much they are all dear to each other, without words necessary. You see, the last few episodes which focused on Hatamoto's past with Reika and her deceased husband were merely a foreshadowing (I think) of the kind of things we're going to see from this "new generation" of friends.

Which means tragedy is looming somewhere.

Holy Jesus...

Either TIF just read my mind or I'm becoming TIF o_O. You said everything I wanted to say T_T

Just to reiterate...

This anime moves like water. A lot of drama series try to mix in too much in one episode, making story progression very unsteady. But H&C seem to has just the right amount of everything. This episode is another fine example. We get a few laughs here, some character growth over there, and plenty of "Awww" moments everywhere. After 6 episodes this continues to be my favorite anime this season.

/me has the urge to declare this season "The Season of Anime"!

TypicalIdiotFan

06-15-2005, 02:14 AM

Episode 8:

The irony of the title of this thread, and the first 15 minutes of this particular episode, overwhelm me.

This is the "horror" episode. Yes, we think it's all relaxed, innocent, and whimsical. And then there comes the Twister Game of Death, then later, The Dog From Hell. Be AFRAID!

I love stupid little episodes like this that hide the more subsumed points behind quirky behavior. It forces you to pay attention but allows you the opportunity to know when you can really just let yourself laugh.

Linuts

06-16-2005, 08:13 PM

LOL This episode was really funny!

But I guess from now on I'm gonna skip any game of twister during parties ^^.

soundchazer

06-16-2005, 08:40 PM

It was funny, and yet there was so much going on in the more serious parts.

Akuhei

06-16-2005, 09:14 PM

LOL This episode was really funny!

But I guess from now on I'm gonna skip any game of twister during parties ^^.

the sound effects during the twister game were hilarious, the screams of agony xD and the look on the rest of their faces in the end, priceless. I still admire the perfect transitions between comedy and drama, both aspects are done nearly perfectly. It was good to watch when i needed to calm down after my precalc final >_>

loner

06-17-2005, 05:40 AM

Morita loves money, doesn't he? Well, he's found a niche in his Twister version 2.5//Helltwist. Passion blue XD I laughed so hard that I couldn't breath.

That poodle on crack also scared the hell out of me.

Too bad I have the feeling this fun will end quite soon....

TypicalIdiotFan

06-23-2005, 08:06 PM

Episode 9:

And so we go on and on and on and on...

Du
Ra
Ma

Bwa ha ha.

Linuts

06-23-2005, 08:57 PM

Episode 9:

And so we go on and on and on and on...

Du
Ra
Ma

Bwa ha ha.

TORA - UMA ???

Morita continues to be the r0xors!

TypicalIdiotFan

06-27-2005, 06:27 PM

Episode 10:

I am running out of good things to say about this show.

This episode in particular is for all you who weren't as quick on the uptake as the rest of us were about the relationships these characters share. Mayama pretty much spells it out for you while talking to Takemoto. Meanwhile, the situation between Hagu, Morita, and Takemoto seems to be nearing a climax. What I like about this is that despite the fact that we get to see things from other people's points of view a lot, in this particular case the only POV we get is from Takemoto. So we really don't know what Morita or Hagu are thinking about things. They're telling a story and wrenching our hearts with simple glances and subtle actions.

Hagu does get the best line in the episode tho:

"hahaha... he's dead!" >8D

Datsun

06-27-2005, 11:46 PM

It's been a while since they had an insert song, but I didn't really notice until this episode because the piano versions of both the opening and particularly the ending theme seemed to be be just as appropriate at portraying the nice, gentle mood of this show. But the Hagu montage was done perfectly.

And I think ep9's best line was:
Yamada - "You're the Hagu Master".
The way she says it just cracked me up.

Linuts

06-28-2005, 09:43 PM

"hahaha... he's dead!" >8D

LOL. For some reason I burst out laughing with that line. The way she said it is just so wrong and cute :D.

I like how each character can say so much by showing so little. Even though this kinda felt like a recap, it is still very entertaining drama. (The insert song along with Hagu's montage was nicely done ^^).

soundchazer

07-06-2005, 04:25 AM

Akuhei

07-06-2005, 01:09 PM

Yeah the last couple of minutes revealed alot about Hagu's feelings for Morita, and how much of a little kid she still is. I don't wanna have to wait another week for the next episode :(

TypicalIdiotFan

07-06-2005, 01:40 PM

well... if it wasn't for the last 7 minutes, I would have considered this a somewhat boring episode. It is though the weakest one so far in my book, but I think that the events at the end are interesting. Let's see how they play the aftermath of the "let's go buy art supplies".

You thought so?

Maybe the reason you thought it was boring was that we're getting used to the pace of the people we're watching. The humor is still funny, but it's becoming pretty typical of how they interact. I wouldn't call it boring though. I would just call it "routine".

Shuu-sensei coming back should have some fun moments. The first was him noticing Hagu's friendliness towards Morita. Shuu's probably going to be surprised by a few other things in the year he's been gone, and may have to deal with some of that.

Though I will agree the last few minutes were worth the mundane beginning. Hagu's been notoriously silent about all this until now, so much so that I really didn't know what direction they'd take this. But I like slow dramatic buildups, dont you?

soundchazer

07-06-2005, 01:46 PM

I do, I do... I just thought the start was too pedestrian. Nothing of real impact happening other than Shuu-sensei returning. The humor doesn't quite click, if you know what I mean.

TypicalIdiotFan

07-06-2005, 01:50 PM

I do, I do... I just thought the start was too pedestrian. Nothing of real impact happening other than Shuu-sensei returning. The humor doesn't quite click, if you know what I mean.

Eh, some of it. I thought Yamada's little monologue was funny, and the ending bit with the shower was a worthwhile reward for the buildup.

But I didn't see this as a particularly strong humor episode, no.

*edit*

Just want to add that I am glad the ending song is easy on the ears. Since they sort of contain an episode preview within the ending credits, it means you kind of have to watch it. If they'd done this with Speed Grapher, I'd have shot someone.

soundchazer

07-06-2005, 01:55 PM

Yeah, the shower buildup was the best part of the comedic side of the episode.

soundchazer

07-11-2005, 12:54 PM

:Bump:

wow... episode 12 FTW.

It was thought provoking and also extremely hilarious. Both Hagu and Morita are really weird when it comes to love... why make it so difficult and painful?

Shuu-sensei with a nail-filled bat is just too much!

Akuhei

07-11-2005, 01:18 PM

yeah that was awesome, with the whole diagram on the board xD "Sensei please put the nailed bat away". and then the whole... Morita singing in the beginning xD. Shi! No! Bu! <3.

Mofudos

07-11-2005, 01:49 PM

If they actually show Morita's adventures in Americae I hope they don't sterotype Americans. Show America for what it really is. As "School House Rock" once said, it's a "Melting Pot." Not a blob filled with bloned caucasians.

Besides that, this is the only anime series that truly makes me laugh.

Ruthran

07-12-2005, 01:19 AM

I love the bill printout after the ride from the airport, the look Takemoto gets is just priceless. And Morita just gets odder and odder with each episode, you think you've got him figured out and then he does something else like the singing, or playing that weird instrument from a few episodes ago. :D

TypicalIdiotFan

07-12-2005, 02:33 AM

Episode 12:

Best lines:

"Having all the things I want in the palm of your hand without even closing that hand?" - Takemoto, not at all understanding Morita's leaving.

"Do you want him to come back? Or not come back?" -Morita's brother, with a grin that says "I know everything."

I suppose I should throw in a Mayama line...

"Gah! I thought the green in this rice ball was from plum leaves, but it's MINT! Gross!" *BACKHAND!"

And we're back in the full swing of things. Lots of fun, lots of setup, and a big fat ol' change. They did this before with Shuu leaving, and it worked then. Morita will be sorely missed, but his absence brings about possibly a better story to be told.

Methodical in the execution aren't they? They're just making me bleed for more of this show.

Mofudos

07-12-2005, 06:48 AM

Morita will be sorely missed, but his absence brings about possibly a better story to be told.

Pardon my ignorace, but I haven't really seen to much or a story or direction for the show.

Ruthran

07-12-2005, 10:23 AM

Pardon my ignorace, but I haven't really seen to much or a story or direction for the show.

Well Morita's absense gives Takemoto a free shot to try and sort out his feelings towards Hagu for one thing. How well Sensei is going to take these proceedings remains to be seen, especially now that Hagu's not so reliant on him.

Neo-Hunter

07-12-2005, 10:55 AM

hmm seems like another winning anime

TypicalIdiotFan

07-12-2005, 12:29 PM

Pardon my ignorace, but I haven't really seen to much or a story or direction for the show.

Your ignorance is pardoned. Your inability to pay attention to what's going on, however, is not. I hereby sentence you to 15 years of rereading all books, rewatching all movies, and replaying all video games. Only after your sentence is carried out should you be allowed to watch Honey & Clover anymore.

soundchazer

07-12-2005, 12:44 PM

The story is simple: a snapshot into the lives of a particular group of art students in their transition from the carefree world of teenagers into the respectability of adulthood, with all the trials and tribulations that come with it.

In many ways, saying there is no story is like saying none of us have a story, and we all do. Some may be more exciting than others, but we all have our scars.

Mofudos

07-12-2005, 08:26 PM

I'm still growing. I'm not new to anime but I'm just entering my it doesn;t have to have martial arts to keep me entertained. This is actually the first time I;ve watched a comedy. Pardon my ignorace, but I haven't really seen to much or a story or direction for the show.

Your ignorance is pardoned. Your inability to pay attention to what's going on, however, is not. I hereby sentence you to 15 years of rereading all books, rewatching all movies, and replaying all video games. Only after your sentence is carried out should you be allowed to watch Honey & Clover anymore.

And you sir, ARE FAT!

loner

07-13-2005, 12:03 AM

Is it that hard to see the direction this show is going? I though the semi-recap episode made it pretty clear. You probably need to watch that episode again.

God I love this episode. Morita has now reached divine status in my books. The pimping white suit and his cheap sci-fi security makes him teh win. Morita > everything else in this world.

Itachi Uchiha

07-13-2005, 12:26 AM

Morita > everything else in this world.
tis true!

If Morita isn't featured somewhere in the next episode i'm going to cry! If you think Hagu and the professor where bad, wait till you see me!

:whine: :bik: :whine:

Why Morita, Why? Why did you have to leave us?

TypicalIdiotFan

07-13-2005, 12:26 AM

And you sir, ARE FAT!

I'm ugly too. But 15 years ago, I still got lucky. Guess with who? That's right, son. Come to daddy.

Mofudos

07-13-2005, 07:49 AM

I'm ugly too. But 15 years ago, I still got lucky. Guess with who? That's right, son. Come to daddy.
I KNEW I LOOKED DIFFIRENT!!

TypicalIdiotFan

07-13-2005, 11:55 AM

I KNEW I LOOKED DIFFIRENT!!

There there.

Ahmad

07-13-2005, 06:19 PM

12 year old and already a pop. Now I get the idea why TIF is TIF.

Anyway Morita's Aniki calling him a money-making primitive ape was hilarious.

Morita (money making ape)
His Aniki (speed demon Taxi-driver)

Tossan(fill in the Blank)+Kassan(fill in the Blank)=Morita & Aniki.

Linuts

07-13-2005, 08:50 PM

Awww no more Morita T_T. Him leaving was completely unexpected, but he has always been unpredictable. There's a lot more relationships building up here and I can't wait to see it ^^.

Whoo hoo for next ep and kimonos!

Mofudos

07-21-2005, 11:11 PM

FIRST
Ep. 13 has been released and I must say that I am pleased. Everyone is really feeling the effects of Morita's absence, and Hagu has matured because of it. I felt that Yamada was fleshed out more this episode and finally separated herself from the cliche.
While the wasn't too much laughter in this episode, bonds betweens characters were strengthened.
I'm not the review go, I'll leave that up to WHASISFACE...............................I lied=B+[I]

Itachi Uchiha

07-21-2005, 11:48 PM

There is a new opening and closing... The comedy aspect of the show is severely weakened without Morita’s presence. It was a sad episode, emphasizing unrequited love and a plant analogy.

:whine: *sob* Morita *sob* Come back soon! :whine:

TypicalIdiotFan

07-22-2005, 04:16 AM

Episode 13:

I didn't like the new intro. Hated the new exit.

Another stellar episode. They seem to be at their best when they remove someone from the show so they can focus on everybody else. They do it so well and with such fluidity, that you hardly notice that the missing person is gone. That isn't to say that their absence isn't felt, but that this show works when someone's gone, or perhaps because someone is gone.

In any event, two great parts to the story. Hagu stole the show, mostly, but we really got some great insight into Yamada's feelings. An unrequited love has never been done so well.

soundchazer

07-22-2005, 06:49 AM

I agree... Yamada and the plant metaphor works so well in many different levels.

Akuhei

07-22-2005, 09:11 AM

I liked the episode alot, but like TIF I'm not to fond of the new opening animation and the ending theme made me gag (I got spoiled by Waltz ;_; ). I really like the pacing of this show, it borders on perfection, even in such a dramatic episode there are still some laughs (especially when they were getting dressed in the yukatas xD)
Yu... ka... ta... Sexy...

Mofudos

07-22-2005, 10:52 AM

I didn't like the new intro. Hated the new exit.
While I didn enjoy the new intro, the absence of Waltz made me sick. I love the transistion form the final moments of the episode to the ending.

soundchazer

07-22-2005, 11:03 AM

The new ending song does indeed suck. Waltz is one of the best ending songs this side of Perfect Children.

Linuts

07-22-2005, 11:36 PM

The second half of this ep is a good example of why I love this show. The monologues are always so poetic, and really digs into each character. I wasn't too bothered with the new opening... But I really miss Waltz T_T... But I REALLY miss Morita T_T. It's too bad we couldn't get a better tour of his room. I wonder what all those buttons do :D

Ruthran

07-23-2005, 02:35 AM

Yeah, Waltz is a definite loss although I don't mind the new intro. The 'augmented'? animation onto the shot video is a nice, unique looking touch. I wonder how they're going to keep up the comic aspect now that Morita is apparently out of the picture. Maybe we'll get some Morita specific filler eps to lighten the mood a bit :D

A lot of anime seem to change their opening and ending sequences partway through and it always seems to piss off the old fans. I'm asuming they do this to try and expand their audience, can anyone enlighten me? GTO in particular is one anime where the change drives me nuts as 'Drivers High' is just the perfect opener for the series.

soundchazer

07-23-2005, 06:03 AM

Akuhei

07-23-2005, 10:57 PM

Yeah sometimes shows change their ending themes and make them BETTER, it's really a 50/50 chance whether they pick a good song or not, they must draw them out of a hat or something. Of course FLCL won because Ride On Shooting Star is the best song EVER... period... stop looking at me like that.

Ruthran

07-23-2005, 11:45 PM

It's just a matter of taste and luck then I guess. I just hate it when there's a song I love and think fits a series perfectly and it's swapped out for a new flashy segment with generic j-rock.

For instance whoever decided to remove the 'Wind' ending from Naruto needs to die painfully. Some of the replacements are enjoyable but most are horrible.

Back on topic though I'm wondering what everyone would prefer - Morita in America segments (guaranteed comedy) or more in depth character study of the remaining crew. Interesting to see if things will get more serious now that the main comic relief is absent.

Akuhei

07-24-2005, 12:06 AM

I definitely want them to keep Morita out, they've shown how fast they can zoom through a years time (several years have passed since the beginning of the show already, at least 3 i think, or i could just be imagining). The loss needs to be felt, maybe Morita can tell a story or two when he gets back, but I don't think he should be SHOWN in any episode during the "year" for his loss to truly effect the feeling of the show. They're more than capable of making very good drama and still having some good comedy even when Morita isn't around.

Itachi Uchiha

07-26-2005, 10:14 PM

Episode 14 -

Hagu and Takemoto take a backseat in this episode that focuses on Mayama. We get a taste of what his work life is like and are introduced to his coworkers.

In this episode, it begins to looks like Mayama and Yamada's stars are ever so slowly drifting closer together. :hug2: How his heart still remembers (insert what's her name's name) but is beginning to forget her.

Morita not mentioned at all. It seems they have already forgotten about him. They may have forgotten him but not me. I shalt never me forget thee, Morita!

:whine: MORITA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :whine: WHY? :whine:

Overall it was really enjoyable. I like how they have switched the focus from one set of characters to the other.

Mofudos

07-27-2005, 12:13 AM

Itachi, I wanted to be first....

Anyway, a top notch episode. I think they handled the introduction of Mayama's coworkers very well. It was intresting to see him get a bit protective over Yamada, even though he may still have feeling for Rika.
While I do miss Morita, I am enjoying the depth being shown to the rest of the cast. IMO the comedy is still holding up despite his absence.

H&C=*GOOD GUY POSE*

soundchazer

07-27-2005, 11:27 AM

Hmm... it seems to me they are trying to tie up some of the loose ends in preparation to the ultimate Morita/Hagu/Takemoto showdown. I like it how they set up an episode apiece for each of the characters in this triangle: we had Yamada's perspective on Ep 13, Mayama's in ep. 14, and obviously the spotlight on the next episode will be Harada-san. It will be interesting to see how they play this out. It would really suck for Yamada if Mayama "settles" for her. That's not exactly the most romantic way to "get the man".

TypicalIdiotFan

07-28-2005, 02:53 AM

Episode 14:

I think you're being a little unfair, Doc. I don't think Mayama and Yamada would end up together via such a pathetic way. Granted it would be a great piece of storytelling, because it's realistic. People do that. But it wouldn't be fulfilling I don't think, and somehow I doubt that the braintrust behind this show is going to screw us over like that.

Mayama's coworkers rule. I love how they did two things with the coworkers: they let us know that they can still ADD characters to this show and make them all entertaining, fullfilling, and important... and they made the coworkers exactly like the coworkers that each and every one of us has had at least once in their lives. I can put a face to each of the coworkers... except the dog.

Realism. I like realism.

Mayama, naturally, stole this episode with his comments. The lamentation at the beginning about waking up with Takemoto and the conversation afterward just had me all smiles. The "gay" jokes later helped. Good add on to what was already there. And he and Shuu's comments about how it's great to be an adult because you can afford to buy whatever you want? Classic.

Loved this episode. Maybe it's because Mayama has been, I think, my favorite character thus far. Morita is definately king of the show, but Mayama is the straight man with the witty comments and the most believable and unique scenario to date. Good show guys. Keep 'em coming.

100% show, Doc. Don't argue with me on this. Oh, well, you can knock off a % point or two for the new shitty exit. I'll let you.

Mofudos

07-31-2005, 11:50 AM

Just out of curosity, what day does it come out. I have been going weekly since episode 8 but don't know when it airs.

Shadowmage

07-31-2005, 03:50 PM

(Finally) Caught up to episode 14.

This show is by far the best anime I have seen this year. Personally, I think it is going to be a pain to end the series due to the amount of drama that has been stacked up; but then again, all great anime are difficult to end well. (As I've said, the ending is probably one of the hardest components of making a classic anime- seeing how it is botched quite often.)

aeroshadow

08-01-2005, 03:58 PM

I just finished watching episode 15. Awesome stuff. It delivers a lot of development on the Mayama/Yamada and Mayama/Rika situation.

For me, it's so hard to choose a favorite couple. I find myself cheering for every single character. One moment, I want Mayama and Yamada to get together, and the next moment, I want Mayama and Rika to get together. It's almost frustrating, but this show is so cool because it can do weird things like that.

This is probably my favorite show I'm following right now. ^^

Akuhei

08-01-2005, 05:03 PM

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII just finished watching episode 15, and the show just keeps getting better and better. I can't wait to see where the next episode goes after the end of this one, it was very... interesting. I love the character development and feel like I know Mayama alot more than I did 5 episodes back, same goes for most of the other characters, although Takemoto and Hagu were almost completely absent from the episode again >_>

Linuts

08-01-2005, 05:32 PM

This whole time I was certain that Mayama's feelings for Rika was only one way. After this episode though, I'm starting to have my doubts. We still don't know that much about Rika... We're getting closer to that climax XD.

But I loved the little bit they showed of Hagu where she goes berserk. And someone need to teach me how to make chocolate curry!

aeroshadow

08-01-2005, 06:10 PM

Did I mention that Shuuji's lines this time were hysterical? Wow.

Mofudos

08-01-2005, 07:43 PM

Beside episode 9, this is now my favorite. It was chock full of comedy and as Akuhei said, I feel like I know Mayama a lot more.
I never would have guessed Mayama+Rika= :humping: .

fugupinkeye

08-01-2005, 11:04 PM

ALright, all caught up. Finished ep 15, and though I truly miss Morita, I must say this is the best anime I have seen in a while. I love the way the humor and drama provide such powerful contrast, at times. And the realism of the show tends to draw me in even more.
ANd more important, I AM ALL CAUGHT UP!!!!!

Itachi Uchiha

08-01-2005, 11:31 PM

Episode 15 -

Those poisonous food jokes will never get old.

Renting a car just to drive someone home, someone wants brownie points bad! ;)

This love triangle’s got me confused... :3huh: I don't know who I want the pendulum that is Mayama to stop at anymore...

Morita…. :whine:

~bub-bye~
:dogrun:
(This has become my offical ending phrase as of today)

Shadowmage

08-02-2005, 05:07 PM

Episode 15

Looks like the Mayama/Rika relationship is further developed in this episode. I can see why he is so intent on winning her over. This also gives a more powerful explanation as to why Rika distances herself from Mayama. It seems that it will be a while before the final Hagu showdown starts.

TypicalIdiotFan

08-04-2005, 07:40 PM

Episode 15:

That.

Was.

A Shitty Place.

To Stop.

The Episode.

I Hope.

The Producers.

All Die.

Of Syphillus.

Having said that tho... Bow chika bow bow! NOOKIE!

soundchazer

08-09-2005, 06:35 PM

Episode 16:

As close to perfection in a romantic anime you will find ever.

It seems the Mayama / Yamada plot is coming to a conclusion and the Hagu/Takemoto/Morita triangle plot is thickening. The previews for the next episode seem really really interesting!

Itachi Uchiha

08-09-2005, 09:58 PM

It's too good. This episode was drama at its best. I think SC’s right about this love triangle coming to a close. It's about time the focus shifted again.

I wonder if the comedy will ever reach the levels it was at previously? It looks to me like it will remain serious until the very end. Where it will all explode into madness and end bitter-sweet.

It's time Takemoto and Hagu to get it on before Morita gets back! GO TAKEMOTO! :hug2:

I don't think Morita will make an appearance for a few more episodes yet... *tears welling up* :whine: MORITA!!!!

~bub-bye~
:dogrun:

Neo-Hunter

08-10-2005, 02:49 PM

i seen the first few episodes i find this a good anime i might recomend it.

TypicalIdiotFan

08-10-2005, 03:49 PM

i seen the first few episodes i find this a good anime i might recomend it.

Like we need yours. ;)

The rest of us have been jerking off to this show for weeks now.

Akuhei

08-10-2005, 04:03 PM

umm... what TIF said

episode 16 was really good, I'm happy that they're gonna focus more on Hagu and Takemoto now >_>, I still love when they play the piano part of Waltz in the background, such a pretty song.

Linuts

08-10-2005, 08:55 PM

Like we need yours. ;)

The rest of us have been jerking off to this show for weeks now.

EPISODE 16 OMG! OMG! OMG! FAP FAP FAP FAP FAP!!!!!!!one one one!!!!!!11111

Damn this IS the perfect drama anime. Poor Yamada, but she's finally grown up a bit in this ep. I'm still wondering what Rika is feeling right now. And there seem to be more development with Hagu and Takemoto. A week is too damn long to wait! I want my ep 17 NOW!

Shadowmage

08-11-2005, 05:45 PM

Episode 16

If the anime manages to wrap up nicely then I'll probably place this in my number one spot.
Right now, Honey and Clover >>> 99.999999% of all anime.

aeroshadow

08-13-2005, 06:19 PM

I just watched Episode 17. There was one insane cliffhanger at the end of the episode. It's a good thing that the next episode preview pretty much told me exactly what was going on. I don't know if this is really a spoiler or not, but just to be safe...

The title of the episode is "He's Back." And it looks like he has blond hair as well.

soundchazer

08-13-2005, 07:38 PM

pffft... that is not even a cliffhanger... it is so obvious that it can't be called that.

This is probably one of the most mushy, but less entertaining of all the episodes in the series.

Shadowmage

08-13-2005, 08:09 PM

pffft... that is not even a cliffhanger... it is so obvious that it can't be called that.

This is probably one of the most mushy, but less entertaining of all the episodes in the series.
I think that this epsiode was done quite nicely. While not as powerful as some of the previous episodes, this does let the Takemoto/stepfather relationship come full circle. Now it seems that the Morita/Hagu/Takemoto showdown will take place somewhere in episode 19.

aeroshadow

08-13-2005, 08:30 PM

I thought the whole stepfather thing was a little awkward. I had almost forgotten about him, since he only appears in like a single episode, so I guess it was kinda weird for me to see him again. It worked anyways, at the very least.

Linuts

08-13-2005, 09:55 PM

pffft... that is not even a cliffhanger... it is so obvious that it can't be called that.

This is probably one of the most mushy, but less entertaining of all the episodes in the series.

I thought this episode was pretty good. Hell, every episode of this show is better than every other series combined this year. The characters don't stop growing... There's always one character that develops somehow in each ep. This time, we have Takemoto... With him facing the same question that most graduating college students have to face, and I thought it was put together quite nicely.

Oh, and I loved the return of the Lethal Twister XD. Can't wait for the next ep where our good old Bill-Gates-Worshipper comes back!

TypicalIdiotFan

08-15-2005, 04:39 AM

Episode 17:

Nah, not much a cliffhanger at all. I knew who it was as soon as I saw Takemoto's face, and I just started laughing. I SHOULD have gotten it the moment I saw the "aliens" looked like Hagu-chan. I mean, c'mon, you were all curious as to what he was up to over there. Now we know.

Now we know.

Hide the children; Morita works for George Lucas.

I think I would have liked to have seen Takemoto smashing his art piece to the ground. Somehow, I think that would have been a more powerful scene. Hell, what do I know? It works as is anyway. Yamada the heartbreaker. Great legs.

loner

08-15-2005, 10:24 PM

Nope, he works for James Cameron. C'mon, it's "Space Titanic"! Those aliens are teh sh1t.

Mochademy awards...LOL XD Probably the most hilarious ending of the series.

fugupinkeye

08-17-2005, 11:06 PM

Oh my god, that was damn funny. Especially the 'cliffhanger-for -dummies'. Morita will hopefully be returning now. This is turning out to be such a good show. Don't know why I almost didn't watch it at the start.

aeroshadow

08-18-2005, 06:30 AM

Especially the 'cliffhanger-for -dummies'.

>_>

Good lord.

Okay! It's not a cliffhanger! I had a very good hunch that it was Morita! I just looked at the next episode preview to make sure!

T_T

Mofudos

08-21-2005, 12:57 PM

I busted out laughing at the end, their faces were so priceless. Yea, I saw it coming but that makes it no less cool in my mind.

In terms of the episode in general I think it to be one of the better, and I liked the return of Kazu-san, they handled it nicely.

aeroshadow

08-21-2005, 06:42 PM

Episode 18. OMG.

That was freaking hilarious. Morita and his crazy antics are so awesome! This episode was a refreshing break from all the drama there had been in the previous ones. Good lord, this show is the shiznit.

Mofudos

08-21-2005, 07:20 PM

Foshizzle Aero.

I thought I wouldd be a little dissapointed because of the lack of a cliffhanger but they completly got me. It's like Morita hasn't been gone at all.

The second he gets on screen hilarity is soon to come.

I love this show, I can't wait for it to be licensed. (yes I can, after the SOLAR finshes fansubing it.)

Linuts

08-21-2005, 09:05 PM

Linuts VS Morita

ROUND 1!

FIGHT!

MORITA MOCHADEMY SPEECH!

Linuts BWAH HA HA HA HA HA

MORITA SUMMONS JO-JO NURSE!

Linuts BWAH HA HA HA HA HA ROFL

MORITA SHOWS THE GOLDEN MORITA AWARD!

Linuts BWAH HA HA HA HA HA ROFL OMG OMG STOP OMG BWAH HA HA HA

MORITA WEARS GRAD SCHOOL UNIFORM!

Linuts BWAH HA HA HA HA HA ROFL OMG OMG STOP OMG BWAH HA HA HA COUGH COUGH COUGH

/me dies of laughter

MORITA WINS!

FLAWLESS VICTORY!

Shadowmage

08-22-2005, 04:29 PM

Ah only 8 more episodes to go. I wonder if anything new will reach the heights of Honey and Clover; for now, I'm banking on Eureka 7.

loner

08-23-2005, 03:03 AM

Take note, Nicole Kidman, Sean Penn and however gets the awards these days: That's how you do a freaking speech! And I was wrong and TIF was half right: Morita does work for George...er...'Peter' Lucas.

That's one hardcore nurse.

Morita's never going to graduate...I pity Tange-sensei (or should I feel happy for him?).

loner

08-26-2005, 06:45 AM

Thread bumping is not my thing, but this is pretty big news.

http://www.designchronicle.com/memento/archives/honey_and_clover_live_action_soundtrack.html

I always thought this series could work as a live action series, except the comedy will be hard to translate to real life acting. The actor who does Morita better be good.

aeroshadow

08-26-2005, 07:08 AM

The only Live Action series I've ever watched was the GTO one. That was weird. I thought it was kind of boring, since I already knew exactly what would happen since I had already watched the anime. So I guess I was disappointed in that respect.

But that doesn't mean I've given up on Live Action just yet. After all, this time it's in the form of a short movie, so I'll probably be able to see the whole thing through even if I get bored. And who knows, it might surprise me.

Mofudos

08-26-2005, 08:00 AM

I'd watch it. It woudn't be half as good but I would still watch it.

soundchazer

08-26-2005, 08:41 AM

The interesting thing about going from anime to drama is that you get to see in a bit better perspective how people would ACTUALLY talk the scenes.

If someone still has doubts, voice acting for animation usually is a bit different from regular acting.

It would be interesting to see who would play Hagu.

Linuts

08-26-2005, 08:46 AM

Heh. I, for one, enjoyed GTO Live more than the anime since GTO was less of a dumba$$ :).

That aside, a Honey & Clover Live Action is very interesting. Although most anime to live action adaptations tend to become either a little bit too silly or much mroe dramatic.

As for the role for Hagu... Now that's a tough one. I guess they can still go for someone young since she doesn't talk much in the series so far anyway, and probably wouldn't require too much acting experience :D.

loner

08-26-2005, 09:37 AM

http://dir.yahoo.co.jp/Talent/1/W01-0008.html

She is Hagu.

http://www.designchronicle.com/memento/images/hachikuro/aoiyuu.jpg

The resemblance is uncanny.

Linuts

08-26-2005, 09:57 AM

Arg! The second url doesn't work T_T. "Restricted Access"

She's cute, but 160cm is a bit too tall, no? ^^

soundchazer

08-26-2005, 10:14 AM

Linuts

08-26-2005, 12:30 PM

Arg! The second url doesn't work T_T. "Restricted Access"

She's cute, but 160cm is a bit too tall, no? ^^

At least for Asian girls it is.

My wife is 150cm and has kind of that Hagu vibe to her. She looks at least 10 years younger than she is.

On the contrary, I've met plenty of asian girls who are in the 160-170 range. Even in Japan ^^. Asians are getting taller these days ^^.

Besides, I imagined that Hagu would be more in the 140 - 150 range.

Mofudos

08-26-2005, 02:03 PM

They should have used a talented child actor.

loner

08-27-2005, 05:19 AM

Arg! The second url doesn't work T_T. "Restricted Access"

She's cute, but 160cm is a bit too tall, no? ^^

I think you need to go to the URL I posted in the first post to see that pic.

Yeah, she's a bit too tall for Hagu, but you get a lot of Hagu vibe from that pic.

Mofudos

08-27-2005, 05:58 AM

For anyone who can't see the picture, copy and paste it tnto your browser.

Linuts

08-27-2005, 08:20 PM

Episode 19

You have to hand it to them. H&C does miracles with its characters... Even the side ones. We get to meet Mayama's old office buddies again and they are as entertaining as ever. Not to mention Nomiya... He is really making his move on Yamada. I'm still hoping for a Yamada X Mayama ending though ^^.

The friendship between Takemoto and Morita is getting complicated. Takemoto sees Morita as a love rival, but also as a very good friend. His "nice guy" persona keeps holding him back :p.

The next ep looks interesting from the preview. Morita is arguing with the Prof? Uh oh...

aeroshadow

08-27-2005, 09:26 PM

Just watched the latest episode, #19.

Immediate Thoughts: I didn't really like this episode, but at least the plot is moving forward, somewhat. >_>

beansprouts

08-28-2005, 01:01 AM

The next episode certainly looks very interesting, what could Morita argue with Shuu-chan about? Hagu?

I like this episode actually, I am hoping that Nomiya and Yamada will get together somehow. And it seems like Nomiya is really making his move (get lost, Mayama!!). But there was too little Morita for me, he just came back and now we hardly get to see him at all. Oh yes, I love the way they portray the friendship between Takemoto and Morita.

loner

08-28-2005, 11:34 AM

Ep 19

Nomiya is one evil bastard. And since he and Mayama are the same, I suppose Mayama is one too :D

Nomiya is also one helluva pimp. He knows how to work the ladies.

Morita knows how to improvise for his fans.

Preview: Wow, that's the most serious I've seen of Morita...ever... Morita getting pissed...NEVER

Mofudos

08-28-2005, 12:37 PM

What can I say that hasn't been said.

Every episode just blows me away, this one did not dissapoint.

And Nomiya isn't really that bad.

Shadowmage

08-28-2005, 05:12 PM

It seems that Nomiya is trying to sway Yamada's feelings. Whether this is just a game or this is serious is unknown. I love how this whole thing seems so realistic as everybody's feelings are concealed from the audience (sometimes even the characters themselves). I guess this will be a good conclusion for the Yamada and Mayama sidestory. Or should I say, another path that they can take.

soundchazer

08-28-2005, 05:35 PM

If Nomiya really wanted to be a bastard, he would have taken advantage of Yamada's intoxication.

I actually believe his feelings are for real.

Good episode.

vitae6656

08-30-2005, 05:56 AM

I wish you guys would use spoiler code.

I'm only up to ep 12. I do however have all up to ep 19 downloaded (wohoo). So im just savouring each ep cos very soon i'll run out and i'll be very sad indeed.

Has anyone got the Soundtrack because i have and i thikn its great.

soundchazer

08-30-2005, 06:26 AM

well... we are kind of doing reviews per episode in most of the threads that are title specific.

Moe

09-02-2005, 05:33 PM

its moe, again.. bringing what the AA people want. a TiF review....

Honey & Clover 19:

I dunno what else to say about this episode that hasn't already been said. Nomiya came off as a very interesting character here and I never expected that he, or any of the office people, would be developped more then they already were. I am pleasantly surprised to see that they're still capable of making things interesting despite, seemingly, "wrapping up" an angle or an arc.

That's about all I have to say, really. It's just more evidence that this anime is a high 90s show.

* * *

aeroshadow

09-02-2005, 06:43 PM

its moe, again.. bringing what the AA people want. a TiF review....

Wait... how come he can't post it himself? Is he honestly banned, or is it something else?

EDIT: *reads Moe's signature* Okay, never mind then... (but why?!)

aeroshadow

09-05-2005, 09:19 AM

I just finished episode 20.

I just realized that I've been silly this whole time, expecting a swiftly advancing plot. That isn't what this show is supposed to be like. Things move much more slowly, and there isn't much of a plot to begin with. Honey and Clover focuses more on the character relationships than anything else, and it does that great.

Anyways, this episode delivered a surprising glance at Morita and Yamada's almost inexistent relationship. It was cute. ^_^

Takemoto is practically fading away. The past few episodes haven't given him any attention at all. And he didn't get much this time, either.

Meanie

09-05-2005, 10:02 AM

Takemoto is practically fading away. The past few episodes haven't given him any attention at all. And he didn't get much this time, either.

Some may dissagree, but it is the same with Hagu, sure she's having a mental breakdown but little else is going on.

This will be my first time to say it, but I was sorely dissapointed with this episode, nothing advanced excepty for the fact that we saw a completly diffirent side of Morita.
Since we are getting near the end of this series I hope they wrap it up tidly.

soundchazer

09-05-2005, 12:01 PM

Wait... how come he can't post it himself? Is he honestly banned, or is it something else?

EDIT: *reads Moe's signature* Okay, never mind then... (but why?!)

http://www.animeacademy.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20353

Shadowmage

09-05-2005, 12:36 PM

http://www.animeacademy.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20353
Don't you mean this?:
http://www.animeacademy.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20355

EDIT:
Episode 20
It seems that they are setting the stage for the grand finale. I love how all the relationships are coming about slowly like in real life. All the side characters also have been fleshed out with great depth. There is no "flat" character in the series. Heck, even Morita vents out his fustration.

PS The beginning scene was too funny for words. Sake Banzai!

soundchazer

09-05-2005, 12:50 PM

Don't you mean this?:
http://www.animeacademy.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20355

EDIT:
Episode 20
It seems that they are setting the stage for the grand finale. I love how all the relationships are coming about slowly like in real life. All the side characters also have been fleshed out with great depth. There is no "flat" character in the series. Heck, even Morita vents out his fustration.

PS The beginning scene was too funny for words. Sake Banzai!

Nope...I meant te one I posted since it explained sentiments a bit more.

In any case, you can expect the review on ep. 20 either this afternoon or tomorrow.

aeroshadow

09-05-2005, 01:08 PM

*reads the thread*

Well, that is depressing... Although his reviews will still be around for awhile, it is kind of odd to see them posted by anyone other than himself. T_T Well, this isn't really the topic for my complaints...

Linuts

09-05-2005, 01:37 PM

Hmm I have to agree with Meanie

Episode 20 kinda jumped all over the place... And little came out of it. The best part was seeing Morita vent out at Suu-chan, and the alcohol ridden Yamada ^^. Still a good episode, but probably not the best.

soundchazer

09-08-2005, 08:30 AM

I think episode 20 did what it had to do, serve as some sort of intermission for what seems to be a very dramatic final 5 episodes. Sometimes a breather is not a bad thing.

Shadowmage

09-12-2005, 09:01 PM

I think episode 20 did what it had to do, serve as some sort of intermission for what seems to be a very dramatic final 5 episodes. Sometimes a breather is not a bad thing.
Make that the last 4 episodes.

Episode 21

This episode is another episode that sets the mood. While I was not impressed with the comedy or the overall excecution of the episode, it does really place all the chips for a climactic finale. It seems that the Mayama love triangle finally will come to a close next episode.

soundchazer

09-13-2005, 10:35 AM

Episode 21:

To be quite honest, the thing I liked the best about this episode where the previews for the next episode and the little blurb announcing Paradise Kiss.

not a bad episode, but not up to par with the rest of them.

aeroshadow

09-14-2005, 02:23 PM

Just finished 21.

The next episode, from the previews looks interesting as usual, and I can't wait. I liked this episode, actually, as it finally shed some light on Takemoto, who had practically been forgotten in the last handful of episodes.

Shadowmage

09-23-2005, 08:42 PM

Episode 22

Considering the slump the series fell into, I thought this episode was extraordinary. It seems that Yamada is starting to move along with her life, and Hagu is presented with an interesting juxtaposition. With Takemoto still out with his soul searching, it seems that the creators want the Morita vs. Takemoto to be the climax at the end of the series.

Akuhei

09-23-2005, 10:05 PM

I don't really know if I'd call what the series went through a slump. The episodes weren't AS high in quality, but they weren't THAT much lower. I do agree, however, that episode 22 is very strong and very good at playing around with the characters' emotions. I loved the way they played out Yamada meeting Rika, it was perfect. The conflict between Takemoto and Morita will be very interesting to see played out, as sad as I am to see this series drawing to a close, I just can't wait for the conclusion!

Linuts

09-24-2005, 01:01 PM

This whole series has been very well written so far, and episode 22 is no different. Man, I love it when they used all those metaphors in their dialogue. Every interaction between the characters are executed perfectly without any abruptness or awkardness.

Anyway, it looks like Yamada is starting to have a thing for Nomiya. I guess it's about time she moves on. Though it's hard to tell where her feelings are at the moment. Still cool, since it keeps us guessing the out come of this whole love square ^^.

Arg, we're so close to the end... I'm depressed T_T.

aeroshadow

09-25-2005, 11:24 AM

Episode 22 was awesome.

I'm such a H&C fanboy...

aeroshadow

09-27-2005, 02:12 PM

I just finished watching Chapter 23. It was weaker than 22, but it was okay and still enjoyable.

On another note, I read this on this anime blog (http://www.designchronicle.com/memento/):

The latest broadcast schedule from Newtype magazine reveals what is probably a surprise for some Hachikuro fans. The schedule states that episode 24 of Honey and Clover titled "...tsuita...", will be the last broadcast episode for the series. This will undoubtedly create confusion amongst the viewers because there are sites that list the series as 26 episode series. Well, the number of episodes is probably correct. Judging from the amount of episodes included on each DVD volume, it's likely that episode 25 and 26 will actually be included in the last DVD volume. These episodes will probably featured non-important manga storylines that were skipped over during the broadcast version of the story. An example of this will be the story of Ham guy, Romaiya sempai, a character who never made it into the broadcast version of the series. If this turns out to be the case, then the DVD releases have suddenly become a lot more attractive than they already are at the moment.Does this mean that I just essentially watched the second to last episode? If that is true, I am worried about the ending. It had better not be.

Shadowmage

09-27-2005, 05:24 PM

Episode 23

I actually really enjoyed this episode. The creators really know how to create suspense while moving things along. Morita's statement "Takemoto's not here" is very powerful; it reveals a lot about Morita's character. It seems that the creators are trying to conclude both the Takemoto vs. Morita and the Mayama love triangle at the same time. (Dear god, the creators have a lot on the plate. Hopefully they won't botch this...)

Linuts

09-27-2005, 09:26 PM

Just 24 eps? UNACCEPTABLE!

With things the way they are set up in Ep 23, it's kinda hard to forsee a good ending with closure here T_T.

Despite that, this episode doesn't disappoint and I continue to love this series. Once again, the side characters show a lot of depth and help the main characters grow. The character interactions are just so well done. If what aeroshadow is saying is true, I really hope they can end it well by the next ep.

Akuhei

09-27-2005, 09:53 PM

That or maybe make the next episode like... an hour long, I don't want them to end it next episode, it's too soon :\. I loved this episode, the emotions were portrayed perfectly and it had some powerful moments (particularly Hagu, who looks noticeably older and torn emotionally, the image of her sitting in front of her painting just looking up hopelessly was very crushing). Takemoto saying goodbye to the workers and then biking away was also very well done, particularly when he mentions that he knows he probably won't find anything by riding anymore, but decides to do it anyway. My only hope now is that episode 24 is not the last aired episode, I'll be VERY upset if that's what happens. There's no way they can properly end everything going on right now, and if they just leave it to be concluded in the manga... there will be baseball bats up many people's anuses :O.

HidekiMotosuwa

09-28-2005, 03:15 AM

soundchazer

09-28-2005, 05:12 AM

Actually the show is 26 episodes long so this still has 3 episodes to tie up all the loose ends have some faith :P

Read Aeroshadow's last post. Dang it... I hate when people post without reading the rest of the thread first.

HidekiMotosuwa

09-28-2005, 05:47 AM

Awww man my bad I thought I was caught up before with the posts but I was wrong I was going by what Anime News Network webpages episodes listing didn't read the facts above.

Shadowmage

09-28-2005, 02:35 PM

Awww man my bad I thought I was caught up before with the posts but I was wrong I was going by what Anime News Network webpages episodes listing didn't read the facts above.
In a sense, I understand. Considering that the 24 episode rumor is a webblog, I see very little credibility in it... Kind of like Dragonbal AF way back when.

soundchazer

09-29-2005, 05:37 AM

aeroshadow

09-29-2005, 01:52 PM

Yay! (That sounds a lot more probable than that rumor on the anime blog, anyways.)

Miroku90

10-01-2005, 10:29 AM

Pretty sad that this series is gonna end soon but all things come to an end. This series has become a huge favourite of mine and i'll be sad that it's ending really soon. Does anyone know if theres a possibilty of anything after the series?

Shadowmage

10-11-2005, 05:13 PM

From what I could gather, episode 25 and 26 will be aired in a one hour special on 10/3. In any case, I don't see this anime lasting more than one more week, since Paradise Kiss is bound to start the second week of October, and that anime is going to use Honey and Clover's time slot.
http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=4975&page=25
ANN ftw!

Episode 24
Dammit... DAMMIT....

This really could be the last episode... Considering that they switched back to the first intro and the fact that there is no preview, we may have to wait for an OVA. Like every H&C fan, I'm hoping that this does not hold true...

Anyways.

This episode was great; Takemoto came full circle with his problems and became a stronger person. I'm sad to see Morita's vulnerabilities, but it shows that the is human as well. Hopefully, there will be an episode 25 for the fireworks.

soundchazer

10-11-2005, 06:24 PM

Actually, this ending works for me.

I believe it is poignant, and shows exactly what Takemoto thinks about the future by the time he reaches his bike destination.

Think about it for a second...

Edit:

And you didn't read this:

http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=4975&page=25

But then again... if you look at the webpages for the show, it is shown as being 24 eps. long.

Shadowmage

10-11-2005, 08:11 PM

Actually, this ending works for me.

I believe it is poignant, and shows exactly what Takemoto thinks about the future by the time he reaches his bike destination.

Think about it for a second...
The ending is indeed nice, but it kind of reminds me of the ending for The Twelve Kingdoms; it feels cut short. All the conflict between Takemoto and Morita is unresolved. Considering that the show spent so much time on this aspect of the series, a lot of the hype just feel like wasted moments. Yes, I'll probably wait for an OVA or the manga, but the show had so much potential to be a far greater series if it just resolved that one conflict.

soundchazer

10-11-2005, 08:14 PM

Shadowmage

10-11-2005, 08:24 PM

I think the conflict is resolved. I think Hagu's fever is partly a symptom of her feelings. The fact that Takemoto was now able to take Morita on and some other little signs make the choice rather obvious.
Seriously... I don't think a better resolution is needed.
In a sense, I agree. However, in this particular case, I want the creators to show instead of imply. While it has always been obvious that Takemoto would win (considering that he is the main character), I was really anticipating some serious drama to occur. The show does a good job setting up realistic characters, and I was expecting some sort of bittersweet ending, but then again, two episodes is not enough to conclude a genuine love triangle. Such a thing takes years, and it will take a lot of condensation and masterful direction to create this. In that sense a second season of Honey and Clover is possible, but I guess this will be a suitable "feel good" ending for now. At the very least, this didn't pull off a Kare Kano... (Time to acquire the manga)

soundchazer

10-11-2005, 08:27 PM

Uhhh... no... you didn't get it then. Things were resolved. Hagu made a choice.

Shadowmage

10-11-2005, 08:35 PM

Uhhh... no... you didn't get it then. Things were resolved. Hagu made a choice.
*Shadowmage rewatches the ending.
Yes, Hagu did accept Takemoto's love proposal... Crud, no wonder Morita was drinking so heavily at the end. (Although he was still jovial.)

...

I guess my expectations got the better of me; I thought that Morita would have done something to compete. Then again, Morita is an abnormaly kind person when it doesn't come to money. I see, this show was built to sow the seeds of romance, not straight-foward dive into the topic itself. In that sense, this ending works quite well. (I'm still going to read the manga)[

Kitsurai

10-11-2005, 09:05 PM

Morita: The self that can't throw everything away.
I figure this had to do with his love of money, but I fail to see a real conflict he had to deal with in the show (like the others).
It might be the reason he lost to Takemoto...
...but again, what really happened to him isn't concrete for me. Discuss? ^^
(Really incredible show btw.)

Linuts

10-11-2005, 09:05 PM

Either case, I think this resolution is still rather vague...

But, this show isn't all about romance and the way Takemoto has grown makes for a great ending. God I want more! I just don't feel fulfilled XD. Hagu's choice wasn't THAT clear, and I think the issue with Mayama and Yamada still doesn't have that sense of closure...

I need the manga damn it! And where's my 1 hour special! Oh and the live action too! WRRRRYYYYYYYY!!!!

soundchazer

10-11-2005, 09:36 PM

Bleh... I thought the resolution was subtle, just like the show itself.

Darn these kids and their need for in your face conclussions.

fugupinkeye

10-11-2005, 11:52 PM

nice show. I agree, I am accustomed to crappy US entertainment's idea of a spelled out conclusion, but upon reflection I do very much like this ending. All in all, a very good show.

Gigadi

10-12-2005, 04:31 AM

My favorite anime ever, I loved the ending and the reintro of Waltz. I agree with Soundchazer 100%.

Linuts

10-12-2005, 07:59 AM

Bleh... I thought the resolution was subtle, just like the show itself.

Darn these kids and their need for in your face conclussions.

Ok, now that I am all awake I will rephrase what I was trying to say when I said "vague".

1)

Considering how subtle Morita's and Hagu's characters are portrayed, the way they resolved Takemoto's confession is quite fitting. When it comes to this particular love triangle in the show, one needs to pay a lot of attention to Morita and Hagu's expression and their very few lines of dialogue to understand how they feel. In that respect, A++ to that resolution.

However...

2) The arc with Yamada and Mayama... I feel like something's been left out with this relationship...

In this ep, during the festrival, in the scene where Yamada and Hagu were playing that ball game, Mayama had a flashback of Yamada from last year's festival. Then he finally decided to not help out Yamada and left it to Takemoto instead. These scenes gave me two possibilities. One, being, Mayama finally decides to move away from Yamada a little... Or two he is starting to realize his feelings for Yamada and sorta shyed away.

During most of the later part of the show, there were hints that Mayama is thinking twice about Yamada and that Yamada still have feelings for Mayama (even though she is starting to move on very slowly). Then came the confrontation between Yamada and Mayama's lover (all of a sudden I can't remember her name :P).

And considering how much depth they went into these two characters... I felt a little cheated with the way they ended it... There just seem to be so much more going on and yet to be resolved...

That's kinda how I see it... I liked the ending, just not completely satisfied :p. And no, I don't like the said "American" ending either :p.

Itachi Uchiha

10-12-2005, 09:40 AM

I thought the resolution was perfect. You say Mayama may be having second thoughts, but who doesn't? It's all the more realistic that way. When I break up with a girlfriend that I went out with for two years I will always look back at moments. However, I will still recognize that I have change since than and so has she. They do this by showing they have both become adults. They have moved on, they just haven't completely realized it yet.

The only loose end is Morita, but how can you tie up a character like Morita without destroying his image?

Linuts

10-12-2005, 10:43 AM

All I am saying is, they added a lot of new dilenma into the Mayama/Yamada arc later in the show. And considering how much time they spent on how they contemplate with their feelings, the resolution they had at ep 24 just seems a bit abrupt.

Oh and I agree, Morita's fine the way he is :D. He probably learned a thing or 2 himself ^^.

aeroshadow

10-12-2005, 02:39 PM

>_<

Honey and Clover is so awesome.

The ending was very acceptable, and although it gave me some sense of closure, I kind of wish there was a little more. Sorry that I'm a kid, and I love those in-your-face, Full Moon wo Sagashite style conclusions...

Anyways, I loved that last episode; those biking scenes were beautiful, and the festival scene was full of style.

Datsun

10-13-2005, 03:28 AM

I think towards the middle of the series it had built up an expectation that there would be some sort of big confrontation or big drama involving Hagu, Takemoto and Morita, but I don't think this perceived need for this scene was necessary at all - it was nice that everything seemed very understated but still very clear as to the resolution. Gosh, Takemoto seems to have grown so much as a person by the end.

However...

2) The arc with Yamada and Mayama... I feel like something's been left out with this relationship...

In this ep, during the festrival, in the scene where Yamada and Hagu were playing that ball game, Mayama had a flashback of Yamada from last year's festival. Then he finally decided to not help out Yamada and left it to Takemoto instead. These scenes gave me two possibilities. One, being, Mayama finally decides to move away from Yamada a little... Or two he is starting to realize his feelings for Yamada and sorta shyed away.

During most of the later part of the show, there were hints that Mayama is thinking twice about Yamada and that Yamada still have feelings for Mayama (even though she is starting to move on very slowly). Then came the confrontation between Yamada and Mayama's lover (all of a sudden I can't remember her name :P).

And considering how much depth they went into these two characters... I felt a little cheated with the way they ended it... There just seem to be so much more going on and yet to be resolved...

In some ways yes, it's not 100% clear as to how Mayama feels, but that in itself shows how realistic this show is - I mean, how clear cut are personal feelings in real life? IMO, I don't think there's a need for Mayama's feelings to be carved in stone.

One of the things that strikes me about this whole show are the numerous times it could make the hairs on the back on my neck stand on end just from subtle images like seeing "The Most Northern Part of Japan". I dunno what it is, but it's able to make these really simple things feel very powerful.

tsiki

11-02-2005, 04:01 AM

I just watched the three first episodes, and damn, this is good stuff. Absolutely great characters, excellent humor, and upbeat nature, reminds me of Kare Kano (my personal #1 anime). I just love Morita, one of the best characters in recent memory, and the others are developing at a good pace too.

So, yeah, just stopped by to say I love H&C. Proceed.

Sorrow-kun

11-02-2005, 04:32 AM

Since this thread has been bumped, and I'm eleven episodes through it, I suppose I'll post what I've thought about it so far.

There's no doubt, for me, the most striking thing about this series is just how so realistic the characters are. Almost everything that's happened in the series so far I've either experienced personally, or know someone near me who has experienced similar. These are the types of things that happen to all of us at this age, and the way it's handled is just so grounded, it's nigh impossible to not be able to relate to the characters. It's profound as well. I've always like the Kare Kano-style introspective self reflectance wherever it's used, and it's used exceedingly well here. I like how they've kept the cast relatively small, and given all the cast members an amazing amount of depth.

The comedy's good, but I certainly wouldn't call it the highlight of the series. Morita's antagonism of Hagu and... well... everyone else is funny, but I'm finding it's starting to wear a bit thin. Oh well. Animation style's certainly unique, and the soundtrack is solid, particularly the superb ED song. And the OP sequence is very likely the greatest ever. I didn't think I'd ever see an OP sequence as clever as Tsukuyomi's in my lifetime... let alone just a few months later. But, here we are.

Unfortunately, with SC's raving review of it released for the whole world to see, I get the feeling I'm going to be watching the rest of the series, always in the back of my mind questioning whether this really justifies all of his praise. Damn you, SC, you could have at least waited until I finished watching the series before you reviewed it! (More like my fault for not watching it as it aired.)

soundchazer

11-02-2005, 05:00 AM

OK... then let me ask you this question... does it deserve the grade so far?

Sorrow-kun

11-02-2005, 05:44 AM

So far, on what I've seen, I think it deserves 90+... I don't think there's much doubt about that.

95+? I'd have to watch the rest of the series before I could say if I agreed with you there.

Best anime of the year? (Something I know TIF has said, and I'd suspect a lot of people share that opinion). Well, even with series like Beck and Fantastic Children, and the real plethora of anime just a tier under this that we've been treated to this year like Speed Grapher (another awesome series I'm only part way through), Air, Mai-HiME and whatnot, I still think it'll be a strong contender in a lot of people's minds. And considering anime like ARIA, Mushishi and ParaKiss, the best of this year might still be yet to come.

Actually, that's one conversation I'm highly anticipating at the end of this year, considering how awesome 2005 has been for anime.

Ritalin

11-02-2005, 08:43 AM

I have 5 more episodes to go, and so far... it doesn't deserve that 95.

It's really good. I have LOL'd so many times in this show. It is my second favorite series of this year so far (since Paradise Kiss hasn't finished yet, but I am sure it will take the prize anyway; BECK being my first fav this year), but a higher grade than a show like Fullmetal Alchemist, and close to the likes of a classic such as Grave of the Fireflies? No...

I would set it around the very high 80's. It has good characters, but Hagu is so annoying she almost ruins most of it for me. While this is a comedy, with semi-romance, the comedy in the past few episodes has been dropping. A lot throughout the series has felt reused to begin with though. Same punchlines, same akward moments. I can very easily predict "SD Moment! *SD comedy* Oh I so called it."

Azumanga Daioh did a better job at comedic moments than this show. Since these two use the same story telling method I feel it fair to compare them like this.

The romance we witness in it is ok, but nothing really happens. No one has really hooked up, or broken apart, or had moments together. Exception being Ayu and Mayama in the fireworks episode, but that didn't change a thing between them. The romance in this show doesn't really do it for me. It can be poetic when they are thinking, but again... like the comedy, every time they think and you get these well-written dialogues, but it feels reused because it is the same thing everytime. Gah, I need to explain this better...

To sum it up, since I am in a hurry right now (and I'm not entirely happy with explaining my views on this anime with this post), the anime starts with one form of comedy, and one form of romance, and sticks with it. It's almost as if they are scared to move even the tiniest bit of plot (yes, I know this isn't a plot driven anime, but I am speaking within character development) for the characters. Thus getting the reused feeling.

Now, if these last 5 episodes deliver something new and fresh in the comedy department, and something happen