Student Review Contest #2: Finals!

[Scoot]

Are you sitting comfortably? Good... then I'll begin...

First, a big thank you to those who entered this round - after all, its you who make the competition what it is. I didn't feel a preliminary round was neccasary - I'd rather more people voted in this single thread than spread their votes over multiple threads (as may happen with a semi-final). At the end of the day the results will be the same.

Now the Student Review Competition needs YOU, because its not a competition without people voting for their favourite review. Please take the time to have a read through the entries (even if its just a quick scan), and vote for the one which you think answers the following questions most satisfactorily (in rough order of importance):

-Did the review satisfy all of the rules (http://www.animeacademy.com/forums/showpost.php?p=498196&postcount=1)?
-Does this review satisfy the theme of the competition (synergy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synergy))?
-Was the review clear and concise?
-Did I enjoy the writing style?
-Did the reviewer go that extra mile to impress me?
-Was the review reasonably free of grammatical and spelling errors?

*please note that "Did I agree with the grade?" does not feature as a valid criteria for voting - everyone is entitled to their opinion, even if it is not yours.

You have one week to vote - which makes the deadline around Monday, 29th May.

You may vote for yourself - after all, how could we stop you? However, simply ask yourself "If I needed my own vote to win - did I really win at all?" and you cannot go far wrong. If that fails, self-voters will face the wrath of killer lolis.

If you have more to say about a particular review other than your vote, then this thread is also open to allow you to express your opinions freely - though be warned it is also here for others to question your views - constructively. I will be posting a detailed viewpoint on the reviews sometime later today.

The Prizes

I will be giving away a couple of prizes to the winners this round. They are as follows:

1st prize - One (1) Terry's chocolate orange - or confectionary of equal or less value (no money) which I will mail to you by the cheapest, most unreliable post-system I can find (most likely Royal Mail).

2nd prize - One (1) Custom avatar/signature created by myself to your specification (optional!).

3rd prize - One (1) hearty pat on the back.

Please take the time to vote - the future of this competition rests with you.
Any comments, questions or criticisms please post in this thread or PM me.

[Scoot]

Work's been crazy this week, so this took forever. Here is my totally unbiased opinion, for all its worth. Please don't take offense at anything said below, as I've tried to be completely neutral and simply give my honest opinion:

Zen of Anime's BLOOD: The Last Vampire review
Unfortunately, for me this review - which has a summary longer than the text - did not fully satisfy the theme, and plays out more like the advertising blurb on a DVD boxset than an unbiased review.

L-sama's Neon Genesis Evangelion review
A concise, snappy summary precedes a well-written, well-balanced unbiased review. My only criticism would be that the theme seems to have been tacked on half-heartedly at the end.

7Raven7's Blue Gender review
Overall a great review, touching several times on the theme - though I was slightly dissapointed that the cooking analogy wasn't exploited to its full potential. Some nice imagery is used to bring across the writer's points, though a bit of the text felt slightly clunky, and the ending paragraph could use some more flair.

chaste Angel's FMP review
I felt the summary both revealed a little too much of the storyline, and didn't reveal enough of the underlying plot to anyone unfamiliar with the original FMP series - though this is a minor point as anyone who hasn't seen the first will be unlikely to view the second. The review itself picks on some important points - though again where was the theme? I also was not sure about the way the text reveals yet more plot details instead of focusing on the quality of the production itself. Good well-thought-out work though.

ShinoMatrix's RahXephon: Pluralitis Concentio review
I thouroughly enjoyed this review. Its flowing style makes it an effortless read, and the narrative is nicely informal without becoming disjointed. Again, my only criticism must be the lack of obvious thematic discussion - though parts of the review can be construed as pertaining to synergistic elements. Good job.

Two-twenty's The Dagger of Kamui review
I love the informal style presented here - though again the theme has not been fully exploited (there is some hint as to the synergistic style of the series in question). The prose is solid, well-rounded and has reasonable flow, and finishes with a short, sweet conclusion. More synergy needed!

Sorrow-kun's Gokujou Seitokai review
Yukata! Sorrow-kun gains the golden cookie for not only understanding the theme perfectly, but also slipping the magic word into the mix. As for the review itself, again its nicely constructed, and leads the reader into its points without forcing them down your throat. Nicely executed ending paragraph too.

Thanks to everyone who has voted so far - but more please!

[chaste Angel]

I think this voting is just getting worst than I thought.

Voting without telling everyone why you voted him/her is not helpfull to anyone whom participated or reading those reviews.

Just in my point, I would like to know what to improve or others reaction about my so called "ENTRY".

I havent seen anything within this thread for several days, which makes me feel as if my efforts are for nothing and not a single person tried to read my review. Sad with such agony i couldnt take.

THANKS TO SCOOT, the only person who have done the thing i have longed for, a comment/reaction/reflection from a real reader.

Shame on other people who voted.

[Rove]

I havent seen anything within this thread for several days, which makes me feel as if my efforts are for nothing and not a single person tried to read my review. Sad with such agony i couldnt take.
The emo poetry-containing forum is that (http://www.animeacademy.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=15) way.
Shame on other people who voted.
Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm with the rest, I'm sure with more comments like that the competition will continue to improve and receive more votes! [/sarcasm]

You want constructive criticism? Here it goes:

Blood: The Last Vampire review
It is a shame that that thing could pass for a review. Ironically, it does contain the minimum requirements to participate: It has a title, a summary and a review. But when you notice that the summary is longer than the actual review, there is something wrong. I don't mind that the reviewer used a different style of reviewing, I actually think that it makes the reviewing contest a lot more varied, but that thing is hardly a review in its own right. Like Scoot said, that is the kind of paragraph you would see in the back of a DVD case than an objective review. And the cherry over the ice-cream was the fact that you even copy-pasted it from one of your posts from the 1-10 thread and that it has nothing to do with the theme (like Tremolo pointed out, previously). Seriously, look out for the plagiarism commies, they might be outside your door as we speak.

Neon Genesis Evangelion review
This review had one little problem: the theme seemed forced into it rather than part of it. Since you had written it previously I can see why that happened. Apart from that I think your review is very well written and hopefully next time you will be able to write something especifically for the contest. (And I don't agree much with the "several viewings will make everything clear", but reviews are opinions after all).

Blue Gender review
What a great review! Well organized paragraphs, an intriguing summary, unforced use of the theme, the whole package!

Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid review
After reading your summary, I was not interested in seeing this anime, partially because for someone who has not seen anything of the FMP saga it didn't make much sense. Read the first sentence ("A military minded and socially naïve sergeant whose mission is to protect a short tempered athletic girl whose longing for a high school love affair was sent to the school same as the heroine to accomplish his sole purpose") of your review aloud. Notice you ran out of breath before finishing it? That should give you an idea that you have to either shorten your sentences or start using more commas, colons and semicolons. Second, a review does not equal rant, avoid diving into comments such as "Come on guys, they could possibly have created a new one, right? And not ruin Kaname’s adorable face" or "The anime could have died if they did it too early. Basically, I don’t want that to happen". Third, you had a pretty long summary, yet you still try to explain the situation in your review, which takes time and valuable words. Fourth, avoid writing things like "And the few minor tweaks? Such as a kiss or a simple holding hands? Come on guys, I couldn’t think of any better ending than that, I want to see it at the end of the whole Full Metal Panic Series" because they are spoilers that ruin the series for people who haven't seen it yet! Sure, you are not saying "character A and character B kissed" but you're taking a big part out of the surprise of finding out yourself. Fifth, some of your similies and metaphors don't work, either improve them or say things without them. Sixth, you're reviewing FMT: TSR, how did KareKano get in there? Review one anime at a time, you will have plenty of future contests to comment on other anime. Happy Prude Angel?

RahXephon: Pluralitis Concentio review
Good fluid review, my only qualm is that it keeps the theme as a footnote, more than an actual part of the review. In my opinion, much better than your Saikano review.

The Dagger of Kamui review
Another good review (cannot expect less from you ;)) but it has the same quibble as the previous review: where is the theme? Props for writing a review about an old anime, and choosing an anime that it isn't in the Library yet.

Gokujou Seitokai review
No wonder you're a reviewer, for its reviews such as these that make me want to improve my own. You handled the good and the bad flawlessly adding your own wit to make it an interesting read. And to make things better, the theme was always present through out the whole review, without sticking like a sore thumb. (It seems your review is winning so far, congrats to NhRv, for it is bound to rule the worl...I mean keep getting better).

However, 7Raven7's Blue Gender review won me over and that is the one that gets my vote this time around. Congratulations to the contestants that put (and showed) effort into their reviews.

[chaste Angel]

Well, thanks for a positive response.

Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid review
After reading your summary, I was not interested in seeing this anime, partially because for someone who has not seen anything of the FMP saga it didn't make much sense.

Too bad for you.

True that I cant assure you being pleased after watching the "WHOLE FULL METAL PANIC SERIES", but this is all I wanted to say;

This is the only anime that made what I am now, itching for animes to watch new or old, searching for deep archives for some pictures, registering in several anime forums for the latest news and even cutting my classess just for watching some. I am not proud of this but it made me an anime fan.

Yet, I aggree with those words. I assumed that everyone who will read have seen it which I think made it bad for those who havent watched it.

Read the first sentence ("A military minded and socially naïve sergeant whose mission is to protect a short tempered athletic girl whose longing for a high school love affair was sent to the school same as the heroine to accomplish his sole purpose") of your review aloud. Notice you ran out of breath before finishing it? That should give you an idea that you have to either shorten your sentences or start using more commas, colons and semicolons.

Come to think of it, I really intended it that way. I thought it would give the readers some thrill, experiencing how to become a fast talker by reaching the period mark before completely ranning out of breath. ^^

Second, a review does not equal rant, avoid diving into comments such as "Come on guys, they could possibly have created a new one, right? And not ruin Kaname’s adorable face" or "The anime could have died if they did it too early. Basically, I don’t want that to happen".

I'll avoid it next time.

Third, you had a pretty long summary, yet you still try to explain the situation in your review, which takes time and valuable words. Fourth, avoid writing things like "And the few minor tweaks? Such as a kiss or a simple holding hands? Come on guys, I couldn’t think of any better ending than that, I want to see it at the end of the whole Full Metal Panic Series" because they are spoilers that ruin the series for people who haven't seen it yet! Sure, you are not saying "character A and character B kissed" but you're taking a big part out of the surprise of finding out yourself.Fifth, some of your similies and metaphors don't work, either improve them or say things without them.

*Taking a note* Thanks, got some, I think, valuable points here.

Sixth, you're reviewing FMP: TSR, how did KareKano get in there? Review one anime at a time, you will have plenty of future contests to comment on other anime.

Part of being unique. Because I dont have criterias such as character designs, story plot and so and so forth as for where i would base the grades, some would think that the grade i have given was just a draw lots. I think comparing them to another anime wouldnt be a bad basis of grading. After all, those numbers are meant to tell which is better from the reviewers point of view. Besides, all of my review would be connected to each other with this system.


Happy Prude Angel?


Yes, kind of glad but I think prude wouldnt be the best adjective to describe me.

[Rove]

I assumed that everyone who will read have seen it which I think made it bad for those who havent watched it.
If reviews were written only to catter to the people who had already seen or read an especific movie/series/book they would be pretty much pointless.

Part of being unique. Because I dont have criterias such as character designs, story plot and so and so forth as for where i would base the grades, some would think that the grade i have given was just a draw lots. I think comparing them to another anime wouldnt be a bad basis of grading. After all, those numbers are meant to tell which is better from the reviewers point of view. Besides, all of my review would be connected to each other with this system.
But see, not everyone has seen the same anime as you, so your comparisons to other anime might not be useful at all. I have seen KareKano, but I don't see how you can relate FMP:TSR to it. If you had compared it to previous FMP installments it could have worked, saying if it was better, worse or different, etc, but comparing it to KareKano? Its like comparing an orange with a carrot, sure, they have the same color but that is where the similarities end.

I think prude wouldnt be the best adjective to describe me.
Newsflash, chaste and prude are often considered as synonyms, I was just playing with your username. Notice the similarity?
Prude: One who is excessively concerned with being or appearing to be proper, modest, or righteous.
Chaste: Morally pure in thought or conduct; decent and modest.

[Ninja Realist]

My 2 Cents:

Zen of Anime: This one gets a 0/10 for not actually being a review, but instead being an advertisement. If you want to write a review, then by all means, I am willing to take it seriously, but did you copy this off some of the promotional material for the movie or what?

L-Sama: A 5/10 here. You have a very nice, concise, summary, and a fair review. I would of given you a higher rating, but for one huge problem I have with your review, you treat the reader like an idiot. I honestly did not find Evangelion to be particularly cryptic, definitely not as much as you say it is. Besides which, who are you to assume that the reader is not in fact a College Student, or even a Professor? Most people don't like to be insulted, and I'm no exception.

Oh and like the others said, the theme is tacked on like a post-it note.

7Raven7: I give it a 7/10, even though I actually liked it quite a bit. Besides various grammar errors, there are many places that are simply too bare, and lack any elaboration. There's a fine line between not supporting your review well enough and spoiling the show, and you are guilty of the former. But these are minor complaints, your review is quite good, and I like the colorful language you use.

Keep it up.

chaste angel:

Full Metal Panic (TSR) made it snow under the summer sun.

I'd say the rest of your review is even less intelligent than this inane metaphor. Your abuse of the english language is frightening, disgusting, and side-splittingly hilarious. That reaction pretty much sums up how I felt about the rest of your review. It was frightening that someone can write so poorly at the age of 13+, disgusting that you would expect us to take such a sloppy review seriously, and hilarious how bad this review actually is. This is hands down the worst actual review in the contest, though thanks to Zen of Anime's mystifying submission, it's not quite the worst entry.

If it sounds like I'm being either mean or rude, it's because I am. Don't expect me to give you a kind, gentle, or even civil, appraisal of your work when you probably put less work into it then Zen put into his advertisemnt, which despite being comiclly insufficeient, was coherently written. Please don't make a mockery of a contest that some people actually put time and effort into.

I give it a 2/10, one point for being a review, and ine point for satsifying the most minimal requirements of the contest.

Shino:

I found this review to be a little bit bland, but otherwise an excellent review. This review makes it brilliantly clear what you thought of this review and why you thought way. Also considering how adeptly you integrated the theme, I think this review is easily deserving of a 7.5/10

Two-Twenty:

From there on, it’s a two-hour opus of coincidences and logical inconsistencies. Let’s go to Russia! Why not? While we’re at it, let’s head to the United States and pay Mark Twain a visit for no real apparent reason! In the world of The Dagger of Kamui, this is not only possible but logical.

I loved this quote. It, alone, is enough to convince any sensible person that you are an outstanding writer. Your writing style is both intelligent, and extremely entertaining. I loved this review, and if I had the ability to vote for two reviews, I surely would have, but Sorrow's Review just barely edged yours out. But still, an excellent review. A 9/10.

Sorrow-Kun: This review has no flaws to speak of. 10/10.

[7Raven7]

Oh well, it was asked for:

BLOOD: The Last Vampire:

Well, where do I begin?

Reviews are a critique of good and bad and B:tlv is far from the perfect anime. Do you actually have a critique of the anime? Also, elaborate on each element; perhaps start with at least one sentence for each. The whole presentation is extremely short, poorly formatted and plagued by spelling and grammatical errors. It is also devoid of any theme.

However I can’t complain too much. After all, this review is tied in votes with my own. :/

Neon Genesis Evangelion:

The main problem with Eva is that everyone and their brother have reviewed this title, so making yours fresh is the challenge.

I like the focus on the mecha designs; they really do not get enough notoriety. The paragraph regarding the animation was very well constructed. You also hit most of the points of this anime, and accurately in my opinion.

However, I don’t know if I would call this a gruesome anime, by comparison it is quite average when compared to titles like Berserk. Also, one thing blatantly missing throughout this presentation was mention of its characters, character development and their interaction, and the “psychology” that transforms this series from average to spectacular. Don’t forget Asuka’s mom! The theme feels a little tacked on as well.

Blue Gender:

Perfect! (j/k)

I liked what I did with the beginning paragraph and unfortunately a lot falls on the cutting room floor when you only have 500 words to work with so the analogy did not pull through. I also try and make a synopsis that is fresh and catchy, sometimes at the cost that they can run a little long. I ran with the horror concept of BG which is NEVER talked about, I would make this a major thesis if I could.

The glue that holds the first four sentences in my second paragraph is very fragile, another downfall of the word limit. It is also very hard for me to spread the review around on more than animation and the “pros” side is very skippy. My argument regarding pacing and identity I got as close as I could but it still is far from how I wanted it to sound. Some people will completely disagree with me on the “skip-able episode.” Also, my format is a little blocky and unoriginal (you may have seen the same format used elsewhere…) and this might make it daunting to read.


Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid:

Now this is only my opinion and is not likely to change, so no need to go in to too depth or argue too hard, but feel free to explain yourself if needs be.

The first thing I notice is the format, which is not too eye pleasing, not a big deal overall (mine’s not much better). Oh, and I would like to know what you edited. That is also a hecka-long synopsis. Remember, you are also trying to do more than inform the reader, you are trying to capture them, don’t just relay events (this happens, then this happens). If you were looking to dazzle your audience with your first sentence, you failed for two reasons. For one, out of all the authors of all time, none have seemed to make run on sentences work. Second, as Rove pointed out, these are valuable words that are taken from the precious review space. You whole first paragraph really does not relay an opinion or a critique. The sentence “having all this tons hilarious elements” does not read right. I like the snow analogy but did not understand what it was reference to as this paragraph is a little awkward.

“High caliber action scenes” is where I, as a reader, see this review actually beginning. Then you delve right back into describing what happens. You definitely have a style here, and with some proof reading (mainly just read the sentences out loud and see if you get stuck) it actually is an enjoyable one. Sentences like “…not a rolling on the floor laughing one…” I especially liked. Unfortunately I have not seen this series so I cannot say whether I agree or disagree with your assessment but I do feel like watching it now (after I finish the first FMP, which I am currently on).

Ultimately, more critique, less recap and your next one should do quite well. I also liked how you worked in the theme, very fitting as a recap (especially with the math symbols, bonus). Sorry for the long critique, but you did ask for it. ;)

RahXephon: Pluralitis Concentio:

Somehow I just love the format, very easy to read. “Unique” and “original” are words that pop into mind throughout this presentation and I am taking notes. You do approach dangerous grounds with your critique of Yoko, but here it fits. Don’t explain this away and let her have it if the critique is deserved! Easy to read paragraphs.

Maybe, perhaps, not as well thought out paragraphs. Consolidate the music one, and more on the animation and romance, this is the best part! Likewise the second paragraph of the review is a tad awkward (but I love the word niggling), but the explanation fits. However, this is made worse by the following paragraph which puts too much “you” in your review. Less focus on the series vs. movie and less personal reasons to give yourself a headache can only be a good thing, right? And you so know you tacked the theme on at the end in the last minute. ;)


The Dagger of Kamui:

I really wish I could see this title first (or know where to find it). You guys are perfect as masking my killer-long summaries. :)

Good format (I know, I know, least important factor but still). Very little to critique and I follow your points from paragraph to paragraph. Maybe some organization is in order, but the rest of us can definitely take notes. First and last paragraphs are great.

Your case of a “passing” grade built around the main character (and secondary) is a little weak, again I haven’t seen this title but it seems a bit far fetched. I wish the build up near the end and the fight scenes critiques were a little better defined and elaborated on, come on man I was so close to wanting to see this title! Theme?


The Best Student Council:

Another title I haven’t seen! No critique on how well you hit each theme. Oh, and I’m going to get picky here, mainly due to the fact that you did write a great review. Hey, you don’t need me to tell you that you’re kicking our butts. ;)

Writing: A+, Paragraph organization: A, Spelling and Grammar: A+. The rest of us should be taking notes. You remain unique in format and even in your review selection (maybe too unique).

I do not like the rating system as much, and only a 6? The only real negative critique is “just doesn’t have the elements that mark a truly brilliant comedy.” Animation is only touched in the final paragraph. A lot of time is spent on the “there are many characters who interact” idea (probably appropriately so) but still we could spread the love around to other areas and ideas. Exactly “what” worked and “what” didn’t. You explain away most of your critiques and, again, I am being picky especially in light of the (based solely on review) unfair 6. And I do disagree that the theme was well integrated here.


Final Decision?

For me it was between Two-twenty and Sorrow-kun and believe me I was a step away from flipping a coin. Sorrow-Kun had me with writing style and Two-Twenty had me with content. With theme being negligible I preferred Two-twenty’s format a little better and the grade vs. assessment match up.

[Sorrow-kun]

I do not like the rating system as much, and only a 6? The only real negative critique is “just doesn’t have the elements that mark a truly brilliant comedy.” Animation is only touched in the final paragraph. A lot of time is spent on the “there are many characters who interact” idea (probably appropriately so) but still we could spread the love around to other areas and ideas. Exactly “what” worked and “what” didn’t. You explain away most of your critiques and, again, I am being picky especially in light of the (based solely on review) unfair 6. And I do disagree that the theme was well integrated here.Just to defend the rating I gave, I used The Nihon Review's format to review this title (for obvious reasons), and we have a fairly unique rating system. A "6" is hardly a bad score. Just have a look at some of the other titles I've given "6" in the past: To Heart (http://www.nihonreview.com/wordpress/anime/to-heart/), Rozen Maiden: Traumend (http://www.nihonreview.com/wordpress/anime/rozen-maiden-traumend/), Mai-Otome (http://www.nihonreview.com/wordpress/anime/mai-otome/) and Ichigo Mashimaro (http://www.nihonreview.com/wordpress/anime/ichigo-mashimaro/). These are all anime that I thoroughly enjoyed but, when I sat down to review them, I thought they had a few too many flaws to warrant a higher score. I think the best piece of literature you can read to understand exactly what a "6" means in The Nihon Review format is the Rating Scale guide: http://www.nihonreview.com/wordpress/?page_id=232 </shameless site plug>.

[chaste Angel]

For all the word i have read were true, I have no reasons to comment about same matter anymore.

A sincere THANKS for all those who have posted thier opinions/observations/reactions/reflection.

Indeed a great number of rooms for improvement were placed in front of my eyes. Hope that sharing your knowledge wouldnt be a waste. I'll do my best to accomplish it so.

And for ROVE, within similarities still lies a difference. Could it be that you are seeing it as small? But still, I value it most.

THANKS FOR EVERYTHING, PROs OF THE ANIME ACADEMY.

[Scoot]

Hey, this thread has content at long last. No longer is my little post doing a Tom Hanks Castaway impression, talking to a papaya at the top.

One thing I would say, though, is:

I do not like the rating system as much, and only a 6?

7Raven7, remember that when reviewing a review, the grade has absolutely nothing to do with the quality of the text - that part is simply the reviewer's opinion.

Thanks to everyone who has voted so far, and to those who have posted their views. Keep them coming.

[ShinoMatrix]

I would say my votes were a split between L-sama's and Two-twenty's... I'll go to why I didn't vote for the others for now.

Zen of Anime's review, well, didn't really tell me much. Can't really say more than that. 7Raven7's was well done, however felt a little too chunky structure-wise. The second and third paragraph needed a deep breath to read it from start to finish and somehow having such a long format personally makes me lose interest before it reaches the final period. Chaste Angel's was somewhat fragmented but overall quite an informative review. Sorrow's was top notch indeed and I really can't point a flaw to this other than it didn't have a "quirk" that I found in L-sama's and Two-twenty's.

Anyway, in the end, I went with Two-twenty's for its wit. Also, L-sama's review tended to spoil much of the series in question.

[Rove]

However I can’t complain too much. After all, this review is tied in votes with my own. :/
There's some 'serious business' going on with that. Either some people are trying to poke fun at the contest or Zen of Anime was a fine group of biased members to vote for him. I think it could be a good idea to share who voted for who once the voting time is over. Public shaming and all that. :lopoint:

[7Raven7]

Just to defend the rating I gave, I used The Nihon Review's format to review this title (for obvious reasons), and we have a fairly unique rating system. A "6" is hardly a bad score.

Like I said, I had to get picky. Let's be honest, there simply is just not enough to cratique of yours. Trust me, your doing fine... *cough* landslide *cough* rigged! *cough* :)

7Raven7, remember that when reviewing a review, the grade has absolutely nothing to do with the quality of the text - that part is simply the reviewer's opinion.

I know, I know. I also mention format which is also the least of considerations but I throw that all into the whole picture and when it came down to the best few I had to consider the synergy of all the elements and the picture they created that each reviewest used to pull me in. The look, the conclusion, and how the conclusion where made all were the "extra mile" so to speak.

And I wasn't commenting on the grade as much as not understanding exactly whether this would be considered "the good," "the bad," or the "average," ( I was curious about the grading system also, looking to add more to the favorites sortcuts) which is part to do with the very little amount of negative critisism but the "hardly a special anime" summery wasn't supported as much as I would like.


A matter of pure preference, figured preference was better than "tails!"

[Scoot]

Well, I always intended to ask a mod to check if anyone voted for themselves, and publish the results.

I wonder if they'll be cheeky enough to replace their avatar with this one?

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y233/scoot123/self_voter_avatar.jpg

[L-sama]

Well now, I've been sitting in the background for long enough. If y'all don't mind, I'd like to throw my two cents in on the reviews...

Zen of Anime: I'll just throw in this saying in regards to this one: "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all."

L-sama (aka Me): I'm not going to glorify mine. I've intentionally said nothing, because I have been reading what y'all have to say. And, for the most part, I agree with you all. I could've done a better job with incorporating the theme; I see that now. As for revealing too much about the series, if anything, I might have shown too much about the ending (that was a problem my first time around), and not enough on the psychological aspect like 7Raven7 said.

But hey, at least I tired. And I'll try to do better next time ^_^

7Raven7: Very well done overall. I like the analogy and your choice of words. The only major thing was that your two paragraphs that talked about the actual review for the anime were a little on the wordy side. Perhaps they could have been separated into three or even four smaller paragraphs.

chaste Angel: Being someone who never saw the first FMP, let alone Second Raid, it was a little confusing to piece everything in your review. Though I got a lot from you summary, I think I got too much from it. You still explain the series fairly well, but it was a little on the difficult side to read. Nice job though!

ShinoMatrix: A very well constructed and flowing review. You touch everything your mentioned in the beginning and didn't spend too much time on them, but just enough that the reader gets a good feel for it. Great job.

Two-Twenty: I voted for you, because I personally loved you style of writing. It was down to earth and personable (if I can use that adjective ^_^'). I also thought that your summary was well thought out and constructed so that it was exactally as it should be: a summary. Nice work!

Sorrow-kun: It was between yours and Two-Twenty. Both of you were straight to the point and very informative in your reviews, but the point went to TT, because of his writing style and the fact that he touched on the visual aspects of the show a little more. Still, you are truly talented in your reviews. Great job.


Last Notes: Well, with this contest almost over (and seeing as though I have a snowball's chance in Hell of winning :P), it's time for me to start getting prepared for Challenge #3. I really liked what I saw, and I think I've learned a little more on how to write a better review with all of your input. Congratuation to everyone and I hope to see y'all next time! :)

[Two-twenty]

Throw another vote on Sorrow-kun's pile from me! The feedback has been fantastic people, and I will give my own when I actually have a bit of time to be on teh interweb for more than 5 minutes that's not dominated completely by university shite.

[Scoot]

...This one is going to be close.

Can't wait till next time so I can enter - I feel like a kid who has to do his homework before he can go out and play at the moment.

[Zen of Anime]

Originally posted by:7Raven7. plagued by spelling and grammatical errors
Hmm. . .Let's see here: No it's not. Apparently you have no concept of grammar. And I know there is none because there's a thing called Google Spell Check. And knowing when and were to use elements of grammar like periods and comma's etc. etc. is second grade material.

As for all the things that other people have been saying on my review I have no comment. Except for one I can assure you all that I did not plagiarise it. And further more I basically already lost they contest so it's pretty much useless for me to continue. And if I did I most likely lose the credibility I have left. So good luck to the rest of you and see you later.

[Erigion]

Hmm. . .Let's see here: No it's not. Apparently you have no concept of grammar. And I know there is none because there's a thing called Google Spell Check. And knowing when and were to use elements of grammar like periods and comma's etc. etc. is second grade material.You need to read over your review if you think that there are no spelling or grammatical errors in it.

[Tremolo]

Hmm. . .Let's see here: No it's not. Apparently you have no concept of grammar. And I know there is none because there's a thing called Google Spell Check. And knowing when and were to use elements of grammar like periods and comma's etc. etc. is second grade material.

As for all the things that other people have been saying on my review I have no comment. Except for one I can assure you all that I did not plagiarise it. And further more I basically already lost they contest so it's pretty much useless for me to continue. And if I did I most likely lose the credibility I have left. So good luck to the rest of you and see you later.

I checked. You copied the DVD blurb word for word, you tool. You slipped up by including the runtime. Blood: The Last Vampire doesn't last 88 minutes, it's only 40 or so minutes. The DVD runtime lists it as such because it includes the extras in the runtime. You absolutely and totally fail.

I voted Sorrow-kun by the way, but they've all been of an excellent standard. Except one. >.>

[MadRhyme]

are noobs like me invited to join the discussion? oh well, i just wanted to increase that number of posts i have, so here i come!

Zen of Anime: a hell too short, it could have been better if you have elaborated more of the things you are trying to discuss.

L-sama: a good work but not that impressing.

Raven: informative but a little boring to read.

Angel: are you a saleslady trying to promote an anime?

Shino: a great work briefly done.

TwoTwenty: nice writting style.

Sorrow: neatly done, lacks flaws.

but from these works, what i liked most would be Angel's. even though as if she was trying to promote a show it really took convincing and held my interest up until the end. i wasnt able to notice its length, as if it is still short in that form. but i think you were influenced by the other reviews you have read, avoid it next time, Angel.

and there is one thing i want to know, why didnt you react upon Ninja realist's action? Rove stated facts and you reasoned out well, while Ninja only insulted your work and you didnt react? did you shiver in fright and not wanted to read more of his irritating posts? with Ninja's writting style, truly yours maybe imperior but it has nothing to do with his badmouthing.

truly pride
makes a person
blind.

what do you think would be my impression upon reading those? "pros" eh?

and last thing, Rove made me laugh. comparing and orange to a carrot eh? "the colors are the same but thats were their simillarities end." what are your purpose of comparing? would you dare compare 2 things that are the same? hehe.

well, if i have crossed the line this would be my last post. truly reading reviews then making a post like this takes time.

at the end, those number of posts didnt even matter for me.

[Kuzu Ryu Sen]

Hmm. . .Let's see here: No it's not. Apparently you have no concept of grammar. And I know there is none because there's a thing called Google Spell Check. And knowing when and were to use elements of grammar like periods and comma's etc. etc. is second grade material.


Let's should be lets.
No should be no.
Starting sentences with and is generally bad.
there is none should be there are none.
etc. should be etc...
comma's should be commas.
were should be where.

Back to second grade you go.

[Pachinko]

I have to say; I enjoyed chaste Angel's the best.
However, I enjoyed Two Twenty's and L-sama's as well. Both were highly descriptive, as a review should be, but were also encouraging and helped to make up my mind around some decisions. A close call, this time around.

[[-=[montney]=-]]

Well as much as I'd like to help: no. Zen you take after your brother terrible grammar. It will most likely get you ban. like your brother what a cruel twist of irony saying "I'll be better than him." and yet not event half way through your freshmen year and you've already lost all credibility. Also I was with you and your bro when you took his review coped and pasted it onto the rate from 1-10 thread and then copy and pasted onto the contest thread. In someways you didn't plagiarise it; your brother did. But then again you did for claiming your brothers work as your own. Hence fourth you should be disqualified, or ban.

[Scoot]

=-]']Well as much as I'd like to help: no. Zen you take after your brother terrible grammar. It will most likely get you ban. like your brother what a cruel twist of irony saying "I'll be better than him." and yet not event half way through your freshmen year and you've already lost all credibility. Also I was with you and your bro when you took his review coped and pasted it onto the rate from 1-10 thread and then copy and pasted onto the contest thread. In someways you didn't plagiarise it; your brother did. But then again you did for claiming your brothers work as your own. Hence fourth you should be disqualified, or ban.

I'd like to be the first to say.... eh?!

Oh, and only a few hours left - so if you haven't cast your vote - get your butt in gear.

[[-=[montney]=-]]

I was expecting a response like that.

[7Raven7]

=-]']Well as much as I'd like to help: no. Zen you take after your brother terrible grammar. It will most likely get you ban. like your brother what a cruel twist of irony saying "I'll be better than him." and yet not event half way through your freshmen year and you've already lost all credibility. Also I was with you and your bro when you took his review coped and pasted it onto the rate from 1-10 thread and then copy and pasted onto the contest thread. In someways you didn't plagiarise it; your brother did. But then again you did for claiming your brothers work as your own. Hence fourth you should be disqualified, or ban.

No one was talking about banning him (I think) and don't think of it as "losing all credibility." We aren't journalists here, we just hope he takes the time to write a better review next time (if he still feels lik competing.) But don't expect us to not call a spade a spade, his review does not receive a passing grade by any stretch of the imagination.

[[-=[montney]=-]]

Well I do suppose you have a point but, take AnimeRules15421 Zen of Anime's brother. When he created the "don't cos play at school" thread which you should look up and read in the Anime Con section but don't post because its an ancient thread and you'd be talking to a ban person but its funny to say the least. He lost mainly all of his credibility. So really in some ways he is getting the down side of this Competition.

[Scoot]

Ok, the poll has closed, and the contest has finished.

Congratulations to Sorrow-kun - and to everyone who entered... you're all winners in my eyes (yeah, right).

A formal rundown of the results is as follows:

1st place - Sorrow-kun with a massive 17/33 votes
2nd place - Two ("I'm going to kick all your asses") Twenty - 7/33 votes
Joint 3rd place - Chaste Angel, 7Raven7, and unsettlingly, Zen of Anime.
Joint 4th place - L-Sama and ShinoMatrix

Now, the voting has gone slightly weird somewhere down the line with the lower placements, but all is good in the world as the (IMO) correct top two stand tall in 1st and 2nd place.

The prize order, then, is as follows:

Sorrow-kun, I have a round ball of chocolate with your name on it. In italics. You'll have to PM/email me a snail-mail address so it can find its way to you.

Two-Twenty, If you are desperate for a new sig then my meagre talents are yours if you PM me a theme/anime.

The rabble in 3rd place, you can have yourselves a veritable orgy of hearty back-patting.

Everyone else - please don't be discouraged, and please don't be put off entering the next round.

Also, my heartfelt thanks to those who took the time to vote.

And with that, I hand the reins over to Sorrow-kun, who will no doubt perform the next competition with more aplomb and dash than myself. Its a shame that we will not be able to go head-to-reviewing-head in the next round.

Thanks again!

[[-=[montney]=-]]

Congratulations everyone!

[aeroshadow]

@ Sorrow-kun: YAYUHZ! ^_^

[Sorrow-kun]

@ aeroshadow: YAYUHZ! ^_^

I swear to God, if you don't enter the next bloody contest, I'll kick your ass and yell other empty threats at you over the internet.

[[-=[montney]=-]]

Um. . .I don't have any prepared response for that. *trys think of a responce* No still don't have one.

[Rove]

=-]']Um. . .I don't have any prepared response for that. *trys think of a responce* No still don't have one.
That comment was not directed at you. :rolleyes:

[[-=[montney]=-]]

Ether way this is not a forum reserved for a select group of people. We all have the right to respond, and Sorrow-Kun did not indicate who it was directed at. Further more I never said it was directed at me.

[Scoot]

=-]']Sorrow-Kun did not indicate who it was directed at.

@ aeroshadow

If you're going to post for the sake of posting, do it in the lounge.

[[-=[montney]=-]]

Ok I thought the "@" thing was a typo when areoshadow posted his/her responce. Also Sorrow-Kun should of quoted areoshadow. Usually people would take the time to type out "at". Have people really become that Lazy were they cant take two seconds to type: at. It takes just the same amount of time to type at as it dose to put @. Also I would consider using "@" instead of "at" bad internet grammar.

[Ninja Realist]

=-]']Ok I thought the "@" thing was a typo when areoshadow posted his/her responce. Also Sorrow-Kun should of quoted areoshadow. Usually people would take the time to type out "at". Have people really become that Lazy were they cant take two seconds to type: at. It takes just the same amount of time to type at as it dose to put @. Also I would consider using "@" instead of "at" bad internet grammar.

It's your grave you're digging.

[Mana]

"@" is a common symbol used in Internet foruming to show that a section of a post is directed towards a particular person, when it is unnecessary or illogical to quote.

While it is just as simple to type "at" as opposed to the @ symbol, it's easier to distinguish between an actual sentence and the @ directive, and, frankly, it just looks a bit odd to see "At so-and-so:" Even though I tend to despise netspeak and keep my grammer up as best as possible, I use the @ on a regular basis.

On another note, just because a topic is open for posting, does not mean that you have to just because you can. If you don't have something to say, than don't say it. It makes our lives as mods easier so that we don't have to clean up after your pointless efforts of trying to raise post count.

And speaking of pointless posting, this thread needs to rerail back onto topic.