Impressions on the new season

Of course, it’s too early to tell on how the new anime releases will be received by its audiences. However, the first episode usually hints of the possibilities of things to come. As per usual, here’s a list of initial impressions on the new crop this season.

» Emma: Out of all the new titles this season, I’m rather fond of Emma. It seems so simple yet brims with quiet intensity. It also helps that it’s set in one of my favorite time periods.

» Erementar Gerad: Hah, this could be really interesting. A fragile-looking girl morphs into a positively wicked weapon and this viewer yells with encouragement. I’m looking forward on how this will turn out.

» Futakoi Alternative: Now, FA is a big surprise. I could barely finish the first episode of the original installment but this franchise had me rolling with laughter. But with gun-carrying kids, dire patrol officers, underground boxing, an unconventional relationship, and enough explosives to annihilate a small town, how can I resist? ;p

» Loveless: I really don’t understand the catboi thing but the first episode is weird enough to capture my interest (at least to tune in for the next installment).

» Mar: Although I’m a big fan (an understatement) of this genre and more so, Flame of Recca creator Nobiyuki-sensei, this series barely registered a reaction to this viewer. I hate to say this, but it seems to be on the blah-side. Hopefully, I’ll be proved wrong later on.

» Speed Grapher: After an impressive offering last season (Gankutsuou), Gonzo manages to provide a bold follow-up via Speed Grapher. While I have a morbid healthy interest in watching blood and gore, this title is so much more than mere shocking its audiences.

» The Law of Ueki: I’m honestly ambivalent with this series. I’m curious with the Gash Bell-esque match us later on. *shrug*

» Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles: Ah, yes. The much talked about series presented a very solid first episode (much to my surprise). With a shaky storyline ahead, it’s up to the creative team to bring richness to the otherwise stylish but bland manga.

There’s still numerous series I haven’t seen. But among those titles, only a select few pique my curiosity: Sousei no Aquarion, Basilisk, and Izumo.

update: I’m currently in-love with Garasu no Kamen, Shojo-soap at its finest.