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Assassination Classroom Season 1 & 2

Genre: Action, Comedy, Sci-fi

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

“Assassination Classroom” is a science fiction and comedy manga series created by Yūsei Matsui. Lerche produced the anime, which aired from January 2015 to June 2016. It follows the daily lives of a mighty tentacled alien creature, known as Korosensei, working as a junior high homeroom teacher and his students, who are dedicated to assassinating him to prevent Earth from being eliminated (Yerramaneni, 2020). 

Photo courtesy: Assassination Classroom Season 1

Spoiler alert: If you have not seen the anime yet, please exit this post now, as the following paragraphs will unveil the synopsis for both season 1 and season 2.

Season 1 of “Assassination Classroom” has a very engaging plot, and the characters are likeable. The series starts lighthearted and simple but becomes a rollercoaster of emotions as the story unfolds. The show tells the story of these junior high kids as they sharpen their assassination skills to confront their life problems, the oppressive school system, and, one day – the undefeatable Koro-sensei. I believe this season hits close to home, especially for those still studying in high school. The reason is that it shows the discrimination last class students faced. They were expected to be violent and slow-witted, while first-class students were featured as intelligent yet arrogant. Besides, the school also prioritized and praised first-class students while assigning the ones in the last class to do the dirty work of assassinating Korosensei. 

Fortunately, my experience, in reality, is not as bad as the anime depiction because I did not recall any last-class students from my high school committing murder or any crime. Yet, I like this season as it encourages me to make friends with individuals, including my teachers, with different interests or personalities from me. As such, this season is a catalyst for inspiring me to come out of my shell and interact with others.

Photo courtesy: Assassination Classroom Season 2

Next, I think season 2 of “Assassination Classroom” is even better than season 1. All the strengths of this series are still here, but they are greatly amplified - great humour, highly lovable characters, great chemistry between said characters, and a thrilling plot. The collection still contains all the best elements of the first season: good-quality animation mixed with equally good voice acting. Assassination Classroom does not fall into the old trap of only focusing on one or two students, but all the students get their chance to shine.

However, season 2 is the one that made me cry with tears of joy and sadness. When Class 3-E students' graduation was around the clock, the deadline for their mission to assassinate Korosensei was also near. Given how deeply the students have gotten attached to Korosensei, especially Nagisa, the top assassin in the class, it was even painful to watch the scene in which Korosensei comforted all of them and said his final goodbyes before Nagisa reluctantly delivered the final blow. Tears were streaming down my face nonstop when the music played.

Despite the iconic heartbreaking moment season 2 had, “Assassination Classroom” is my ultimate comfort anime series. Whether you are a fan of action or comedy, this series always has a place for you.

References:

Yerramaneni, N. (2020, September 5). Is Assassination Classroom any good? - A Complete Review. Epic Dope. https://www.epicdope.com/is-assassination-classroom-any-good-a-complete-review/

[neweebie]

Oshi No Ko Season 1

Genre: Drama, Supernatural, Mystery

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

“Oshi no Ko” is a 2023 anime series directed by Kazuya Ichikawa and produced by MAPPA. It is based on the manga written by Aka Akasaka and Mengo Yokoyari. The anime follows the story of Aqua, a young actor reincarnated as Ai’s son after his death. Aqua discovers that his father is responsible for his and Ai’s demise and plans to locate him and make him pay for what he did to them (Arroyo, 2023).

Regarding media representation, “Oshi no Ko” has been praised for portraying Japan’s entertainment industry. The series provides an inside look into the lives of multiple people in these fields in a sincere and complex manner. From the harsh criticism folks receive online to the potentially deadly situations most celebrities face daily, “Oshi no Ko’s” story bridged the gap between ordinary humans and stars. In short, “Oshi no Ko” is known as a brilliant idol anime with a dark and informative edge.

The series features compelling humour and heartfelt interactions, allowing audiences like me to take in the show’s constructive criticism and plot-heavy moments. Besides its critiques of the entertainment industry, “Oshi no Ko” tackles various themes, from friendship and family to revenge and personal growth. These factors, along with the show’s handling of darker topics like suicide awareness and stalking, helped it feel more intricate than most idol series that air nowadays.

Photo courtesy: Oshi No Ko Season 1

Spoiler alert: If you have yet to view the anime, please navigate away from this post, as the following paragraphs will reveal the relationship dynamics between some characters.

As mentioned, the story has its many highs; it also has its minuscule lows. For instance, some viewers like me may find the romantic angle surrounding Ruby and Aqua’s characters somewhat uncomfortable. I understand that this anime is somewhat of an isekai, which means characters will somehow transported into another world. Still, in this case, the protagonists reincarnated in the same world as Ai's children. Despite both Aqua and Ruby being different people in their past lives, it gives me 'Sweet Home Alabama' vibes when they keep on remembering the promise they made to one another in the past. 

Speaking of their past lives, Aqua was a doctor, an adult aged 24 to 26, while Ruby was his 12-year-old patient. Although I understand the anime has the intention to show a child's innocence and naiveness when Ruby, or should I say, Sarina (Ruby's name in her past life), asked Dr. Gorou (Aqua's name in his past life) to marry her as a motivation to combat her anaplastic astrocytoma, a deadly illness. And guess what? He agrees with the condition that she is fully recovered and turned 16. It gives me a bit of pedophile vibes. 

However, despite the possible incest and grooming controversy arising from this anime, the plot still got me hooked. It made me curious about Aqua and Ruby's reaction when they discover each other's past lives. It also allowed me to keep guessing who would be their biological father, who is also Ai's murderer, and whether Aqua will take his revenge after uncovering the truth. As you can see, there are many unanswered questions, and I am excited to see what Ichikawa will do in "Oshi no Ko" season 2.

Overall, I believe “Oshi no Ko” season 1 is an entertaining anime series offering everyone a new angle of the entertainment industry and reminding them that it is not always as glamorous as it seems on the outside. Whether you’re a fan of drama or psychological thrillers, there’s something in this series for you. 

Photo courtesy: Oshi No Ko Season 1

References:

Arroyo, J. (2023, June 29). Oshi No Ko Season 1 Review – A Brilliant Idol Anime With A Dark And Informative Edge. Thereviewgeek.com. https://www.thereviewgeek.com/oshinoko-s1review/

[neweebie]

Jojo’s Bizzare Adventure Part 1 - 6

Genre: Action, Comedy, Supernatural

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is an anime series consisting of 6 parts that has been running since 2012. It is based on the manga of the same name created by Hirohiko Araki.

Spoiler alert: If you still haven't watched the anime, please click away from this post now, as the paragraphs below are going to reveal the summary for each part.

Part 1 of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is titled “Phantom Blood.” It tells the story of Jonathan Joestar, a young man who finds out that his adopted brother, Dio Brando, is trying to take over his family’s fortune and destroy his life. The two become bitter enemies, and their rivalry sets the stage for the rest of the series. I would say this part is a bit slow as it took place during the 19th century, and the art style can be pretty difficult for most viewers to accept. However, I still think it did a great job of introducing the characters' dynamics and the meaning behind the name 'Jojo,' which is every protagonist from the series is a Joestar's bloodline. (well, except for part 5, or is it?)

Next, part 2 of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is called “Battle Tendency.” It takes place 50 years after the events of “Phantom Blood” and follows the story of Joseph Joestar, Jonathan’s grandson. Joseph must fight against an ancient race of beings known as the Pillar Men to save humanity. If you are a fan of humor, then you would love this part, as Joseph is the kind of protagonist who uses his jokes and quick wits to get himself out of dangerous situations. However, as hilarious as Joseph can be, he also shows loyalty and respect to his frenemies like Caesar and Stroheim. As such, my tears rolled down the moment when Joseph mourned for Caesar as he died trying to save his family's pride by fighting Wamuu alone.

Part 3 of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is called “Stardust Crusaders.” It follows the story of Jotaro Kujo, Joseph’s grandson, as he travels to Egypt to defeat Dio Brando once and for all. Along the way, he meets a group of other Stand users who help him in his quest. It can be pretty slow in the beginning, but once you reach the middle of the journey, you will feel like you are in a fever dream. You will be caught up on an adventure mixed with laughter and tears like I did. You will also witness one of the most remarkable fight scenes to ever exist in this part.

Photo courtesy: Jojo Bizarre's Adventure Part 3

Part 4 of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is called “Diamond Is Unbreakable.” It takes place in Morioh and follows the story of Josuke Higashikata, a high school student who discovers that he has a Stand. Josuke must use his Stand to protect his town from various threats. If you are a fan of a slice of life combined with a mystery type of anime, this part is definitely your cup of tea. I would not say that part 4 is filled with filler episodes, but it is unique in the sense that it focuses on introducing supporting characters more than the protagonist. At the same time, the dots will be connected at the end, and Josuke will have his character development along with the side characters.

Part 5 of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is called “Golden Wind.” It takes place in Italy and follows the story of Giorno Giovanna, a young man who wants to become a gangster and take down the boss of Passione, a powerful mafia organization. As for this part, I feel like it can be a tad bit confusing for viewers in the beginning, as the plot evolves pretty quickly. It felt like a truckload of information had been dumped on me in one second when I watched it. Yet, it also has another legendary fight scene and character development arc for Giorno. If an overpowered (OP) character can be anyone, it would be Giorno. He basically rigged the system, and his Stand can trap anyone in an endless loop of dying and reviving because its power is reverting reality to its original state. Confusing? I totally understand how you feel, but trust me, once you watch it, you will find Giorno so OP that Araki decided not to include him in part 6 or else the story will end before it can even start.

Photo courtesy: Jojo's Bizarre Adventure Part 6

Part 6 of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is called “Stone Ocean.” It follows the story of Jolyne Cujoh, Jotaro’s daughter, who fights against a corrupt prison system and tries to clear her name. Surprisingly, she is the only female Jojo in the series, and that doesn't make her any weaker than the previous Jojos. Since this part is the final part of the series, Araki goes on a rampage and adds all sorts of Stands and obstacles for Jolyne to overcome. In this part, I experienced countless twists and turns in the plot, heartbreaking and thought-provoking moments. Fortunately, I would say the anime series ended on a good note, and I am happy that my time and energy spent on it were not wasted.

Overall, I think Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is an entertaining anime series that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of action, comedy, or drama, there’s a special place in this series for you.