Glass Mask: Episode 05

I’m not sure if I should applaud the scoring for this title or laugh hysterically. It sometimes changes so abruptly that there are instances where it can be jarring. However, I get a kick out of the themes used for whomever character is on screen. Especially with Tsukikage-sensei when it plays some sort of dramatic but mysterious track bordering on creepiness. And with scenes of Masumi and his increasing protectiveness on Maya where the track screams of romantic hintings (and the audience member can’t help but wish that he’ll just sweep Maya off her feet, ignoring the fact that the pairing is deemed illegal in many countries).

Ayumi scouts Tsukikage’s acting school. She, then, requests if she could participate with the ongoing exercise. Much to the surprise of the student, the creepy instructor chooses Maya to play opposite the talented actress. Instead of complete defeat, Maya astonishes her classmates and Ayumi as she exceeds their expectations. Although the performance was cut short, Ayumi feels as if she lost to a match with Maya, spawning the soon-to-be rivalry.

My fascination with this anime is basically an extension for my current obsession with its manga roots. And I can’t honestly say, I would’ve liked the anime if I hadn’t read the manga releases. Oddly enough, my enjoyment for this adaptation is derived from the sometimes parody-like treatment. Sigh-inducing-purple-rose-dude helps out every now and then but his rare appearances are not enough to satisfy high expectations from this audience member. But the season is still young for pessimistic thoughts. With forty-seven episodes to go and with a solid storyline to be based upon, I’m relatively confident for the series to work itself out. (All I have to do is remind myself how much I LOVE One Piece and Tenshi na Konamaiki where it took me quite a few episodes before warming up to them.)

BTW, I realize now why I was initially enthralled with GM. It is almost structured like a fighting anime where the tournaments are held on the theatre complete with training chapters and power-ups. ^^