Glass Mask: Episode 01

Before anything else, I have to warn readers of excessive fangirl-ing that will inevitably ensue. I watched the first episode of this adaptation after reading the first fifteen volume of the wonderful manga which this title is based upon. Many, many thanks to Chao Otaku and Vireyda for recommending this addicting series.

Maya, a young average girl, often finds herself enraptured by visual performances, may it be from television or movies. She becomes lost in this world and totally mesmerized in this world. Unfortunately, in her real world, this habit can rather be irksome to those who fail to understand the passion. One day, a mysterious (more like creepy) woman appears in front of her and asks her strange questions. Scared and confused, Maya runs away from the lady leaving off the stranger to spout foreshadowing words.

Since I really (and I mean REALLY) enjoyed the manga, I feared the anime counterpart of the title. Much to my surprise, the pilot competently hold its own. It captures Maya’s (almost psychotic) love for the arts (i.e. She jumps into icy water to retrieve a prized La Traviata ticket). With theater-centric series, a few dramatic and exaggerated gestures easily melds into the programme. In fact, it even accentuates the a somewhat play-like quality of some scenes. And just listen to the scoring of the creepy woman’s monologue. Nice.

I have to admit I appreciate chees-tastic music, and the opening sequence proves my point. Best of all, the spoilerific scene with purple-rose dude is absolutely delectable. *sigh* *my heart flutters*

This old school anime reminds me of my mushy inner school girl side. It has been a while since I have seen a romantic anime to which I can truly fangirl over. Glass Mask only emphasizes the current lack of representation in this genre. The equal parts cheese, melodrama, romance, riveting stoylines, and intriguing cast of the manga will hopefully be transposed into this anime adaptation. *prays it’s not merely wishful thinking*