They full list with even more in-depth ratings can be found on MAL.
http://myanimelist.net/animelist/dankzel
Seirei no Moribito (Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit) is just a fantastic series and one hell of a fulfilling adventure. After watching this series, I know one thing for sure and that is that Moribito is the definition of an anime journey. From start to finish, I was completely absorbed into the diverse and intricate fantasy world and mythos that Moribito created along with all the lovable and deep characters that were fleshed out over 26 strong episodes. And the driver behind all this was without a doubt the sensational developing relationship between Balsa and Chagum which correlated with and paralleled the realistic growth of Chagum from a naive and sheltered young prince into a hero truly worthy of leading an entire country (much more so than his clown of a father and mikado).
I particularly loved how this show had a little bit of everything. Action, a well developed fantasy universe, fantastic characters, romance, and slice of life aspects. The list can go on and on. While the pace was a little inconsistent at times, you can't expect every episode to be full of excitement like the beginning or end of the series. Moribito is definitely an underrated series and should be watched by all fans of quality fantasy adventures.
Denpa Teki na Kanojo is a show that surprised me by how much I enjoyed it. Coming in with just two 40 minute OVAs. I wasn't expecting much but we get a solid intro to our characters and a great thriller mystery during each OVA. Also, I love me some crazy bitches and this show has absolutely no shortage of them. And by crazy, I mean batshit CRAZY. This is a show that absolutely deserves a full season or a few more OVAs.
Yu Yu Hakusho is just a classic and riveting shounen from the glory days with an awesome English dub to boot (one of the few where the dub is better than the sub imo). There are so many great characters, laughs, tears and memorable moments all wrapped into this one unforgettable journey spanning 112 episodes. The best arcs are the Dark Tournament (season 2) and Chapter Black (season 3) sagas and I could watch them over and over again.
Do yourself a favor. Don't think. Just watch.
Just one episode in, I'm going to go out on a limb and call Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso as the potential sleeper AOTS. With a superb focus on music and its dynamic characters, I'm getting some early vibes of Nodame Cantabile reincarnated right here. Just listen to the OP once and you'll be hooked. It's also very cool that the anime will cover the entire manga as they're supposed to end at about the same time. This is a definite watch. As @ManiacB has stated, I just have to pray that A-1 doesn't screw this up because Nodame Cantabile + Moe = Winning.
Damn, Redline was one epic movie. I can't believe it took me so long to check this out. The animation is out of this world (those 7 years of production did not go to waste) and the whole movie just oozes style. I'm not even a fan of racing but this had me at the edge of my seat the whole time. Also, that OST was just bumpin'. I'm still listening to REDLINE DAY (feat. Rob Laufer) from the credits as we speak (click below). Madhouse can do no wrong.
The Kyoukai no Kanata movie has been confirmed for Spring 2015. Wooooot woot. I trust that KyoAni will handle this movie well as they've never really exploited the bitch recap method in the past (minus Chuunibyou). Kyoukai no Kanata definitely needed a movie to further explain a lot of the plot holes and lingering questions that were remaining from the end of the show and I think that this will handle things extremely well. My body is ready.
http://myanimelist.net/forum/?topicid=1215031
Now, just give me a second season or movie of Hyouka and I can pass on happily.
BASED DAIZ/OPPAI/PANTSU. A new To Love-Ru Darkness OVA has been announced for release on December 4th. One step closer to To Love-Ru Darkness Season 2 but that may not come until the current arc in the manga is over. Anyway, Mo' Momo please.
On the actual OVA, I don't know if it can top the Kyouko faucet scene from the last one but, honestly, what can (other than the Momo popsicle scene perhaps)?
http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-06-30/to-love-ru-darkness-manga-gets-new-original-video-anime-dvd/.76129
I really enjoyed this show a lot more than I initially anticipated. It was short, hilarious and knew exactly what it was: an ecchi comedy that was 13 mins long. Still, in that short amount of time, we got some solid moments beyond the comedy (who doesn't love endless jokes about panties?). All the girls/harem were great and Aito served as an awesome, perverted yet innocent MC who doesn't hide his love of panties. If you want a quick laugh with nothing too deep, definitely check this show out.
I'm not gonna lie. I laughed my ass off during 22 Jump Street (and so did the entire theater). While it might not have been as fresh as the first one, I enjoyed that the movie completely embraced the fact that it was a blatant money-making sequel and it made the movie all the better (essentially the complete opposite of how The Hangover/Crapover 2 handled it). It actually became quite a bit of the running joke and I nearly died during the credits. Hill and Tatum still have that amazing chemistry in this movie that we remember from the original and shared some pretty close and intense moments in their brolationship. This movie posed very real and deep questions that made me question my own bromosexuality and I loved every second of it. Definitely check this out if you enjoyed the first or love comedy.
Man. Mind. Blown. This was one epic movie. SHAFT took this in a completely different direction than I originally anticipated. This sequel to the series (technically the movies if you listen to the creators) really delves into our favorite magical characters but the real star of this is Homura without a doubt. I truly realized (after reading explanations online of course) the extent of her pain, suffering and love that she went through in order to "save" Madoka. She truly develops and transforms as a character throughout this movie into someone even I didn't anticipate at all.
The animation, style and action are spectacular as always with this being a SHAFT production. While I thought that the first 30 minutes of the movie were a bit slow, shit immediately got crazy after that. And that ending... You'll have to see it for yourself. There were definitely some pretty confusing parts of this movie but after taking it all in (and some outside guidance), everything really does fit together and creates a fitting sequel to the series. I liken this as the End of Evangelion for the Madoka series. Now, I'm craving for some more magical girls goodness.
This was a very fun and interesting first season for Log Horizon. I got pulled in right from the start due to the trapped in the online world setting but I can see how this would not be one's cup of tea if they were not familiar with MMORPGs or RPGs in general. The creators definitely took this show in a different direction than I anticipated but I think it served them well to differentiate from SAO's shonen/romance emphasis. I really liked the novel concepts and situations specific to being thrown into a lawless new world that were explored especially in the first half of the season. The show also really reminded me a bit of Spice and Wolf and Maoyuu on how economics, politics and more worldly ideals could impact and change a world vs how GAR the MC could go on an enemy. I was also surprised that the show was able to do so well while there wasn't a real central villain type figure. Essentially the true enemies/obstacles to overcome were the adventures and people themselves. So deep...
I didn't think that the animation was that great but I hope that the studio gets a bigger budget for season 2 since I think that this will sell pretty well. Although, I don't know how much better they could animate a character doing paperwork :) I really liked the characters in the show (Minori and Akatsuki = loli-winning) but one negative is that they were all a bit one-dimensional or cookie cutter for the most part other than Shiroe. Also, some have complained about pacing issues as they found the show to be a bit too slow. I didn't notice this as much but that was because I waited for the season to complete. Hopefully season 2 will allow characters to develop in some more interesting and unique ways. Anyway, I can't wait till the fall premiere. Anime 2014 is already gearing up to be completely epic.
This was a very well done romance movie and clearly shows that Goro Miyazaki is making strides as a director himself (Tales from Earthsea was just so convoluted). The characters are very nice (though nothing too deep) and the story goes at a nice (although at times slow) pace. The art and music are spectacular as one would expect from a Ghibli film. The only big thing that I'd like to add is to definitely watch this with the English dub. I actually found that it added a lot more to the experience with many extra added lines (there are seriously quite a few monologues/lines that are not in the Japanese version), a better translation and much more natural dialogue versus the Japanese subs (at least the retail Japanese ones that I think that I saw it with). This reminded me a lot of Whisper of Heart although not quite as developed as that classic. Anyway, this is a definite watch for any Ghibli or romance movie fan.
Sword of the Stranger was definitely an unexpectedly great movie in my opinion. The relationship between Kotaro and Nanashi is developed very well (for a movie) and helps to drive the film forward. I loved the fluid animation and exciting choreography of the action sequences and the music always seemed to fit the mood. The climatic fight/battle-royal at the end was absolutely epic. While the plot was not too original, it served its purpose in getting Nanashi to kick ass and shut many mouths. And I actually liked how the ending was kept open showing how wounded Nanashi was after the battle and that there was no nearby town. I just hope that Nanashi didn't die (although all the hints show that he probably did with this being his last sacrifice).
This was a very beautiful and moving film by Makoto Shinkai. As the title suggests, it is a story about a growing separation and the effects it has on childhood sweethearts, Akari and, in particular, Takaki. Even though it was only an hour long, by the end I felt like I was truly feeling the pain and longing that had dominated Takaki's life for so long. I was initially disappointed by the ending (what can I say, I'm a sucker for happy endings) but after rewatching the film, I really appreciated that they didn't go with the cliché finish. Takaki not being reunited with Akari and finally deciding to move on from his past, which till that point held down and ate away at his life, was far more powerful and resonated with the themes of the film. The animation, art and music were beautiful like in all Makoto Shinkai works. I can't think of a better way to spend an hour of my time (except, of course, maybe sending a text to my long forgotten fling).
I thought that the movie was just alright until the last third where shit just went crazy. Just like Mima, I couldn't tell what was real or not. This was definitely a unique and awesome mindfuck. Satoshi Kon (Paprika, Millennium Actress, Paranoia Agent) is without a doubt a master of the psychological thriller genre. I just wish that he could have gotten the chance to create many more films.
Bones does a fantastic job with the Darker Than Black series in creating a dark fantasy world where humans and "contractors" with supernatural powers are at odds with each other over not just control/power but also the right to exist. The MC, Hei, is so intriguing with his constant struggle between his human and contractor side (not to mention that he is a complete badass). The rest of the crew including Yin, Mao and even Huang make a very dynamic team and each has a very dark and complicated past. Even the other supporting characters get fleshed out pretty well.
The first season is an absolute thrill and I couldn't stop watching till the very end. It does a great job of having individual arcs (that are each 2 episodes long) which introduce us to tons of great characters while slowly delving into the deep and satisfying overarching story. There's a ton of plot twists and you honestly don't know where everyone's true intentions and motivations lie. The quality is great throughout and the action and anticipation keeps on building until the very last episode. However, the second season (Gemini) and OVA (Gaiden) are definitely not as strong as the first season (I mean it's a tough act to follow) but are still enjoyable nonetheless even with their flaws. Particularly, I just wish that Hei was a bit more of the focus in the second season rather than Suo. Also, the season 2 ending...
The action is awesome throughout the entire series and you see a good variety of different powers amongst the many contractors that we meet in this series. You can tell Hei is a badass but he isn't super over-powered compared to the enemies which makes the battles more entertaining. The dub is pretty solid for this series with Hei rocking his best impersonation of the Christian Bale Batman voice. I'd definitely recommend at least watching the first season as it is a staple of the darker action/thriller anime genre for a reason. You won't be disappointed in this Bones work. And I just gotta say that I still love me some Misaki.
Praise be to the Lord/Allah/Buddha/Tom Cruise/Oprah!! Mushi-shi is getting a 2nd season (a full 2 cour) that is starting this coming April. Ginko be doin' work again in 2014 and it will be glorious.
http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-01-04/mushishi-anime-gets-2nd-season-in-april
http://myanimelist.net/forum/?topicid=720487
Psycho-Pass was an absolute thrill to watch with its excellent combination of a intricate plot and ever-developing characters that were all set in a very thought-provoking dystopian future Japan. This show grabbed me instantly and wouldn't let go. The over-arching plot is just superb with plenty of twists, shocking moments, varying sets/situations and even a few feels along the way. The use of criminal-coefficients and the Sibyl system along with the themes that they invoked have been done before but I thought that P-P put a very cool and unique spin on it. This wasn't just an "evil" big brother system that was controlling every one in a totalitarian manner. There were very clear benefits to this so-called "perfect" system and this is where a lot of the show's conflicts arise.
The characters are also where the show truly excelled. Kougami was a badass MC with a very clear motivation for "justice" but was constantly walking the tightrope between what was right and vigilantism. I initially thought that the female MC, Akane, was a bit weak but I was definitely proven wrong. Her development from a naive and gullible newbie to a true and intuitive detective struggling with the ideals and purpose of the Sibyl was handled excellently. It was very believable and followed along with my same feelings about the world of P-P. The other supporting characters were very strong as well especially Masaoka. And, last but not least, was the villain Makishima. He was truly one of the best villains that I've seen in a while with his brilliant schemes, awesome dialogue (so many quotes from brilliant authors from Shakespeare to recent philosophers), and his very distinct motivations. You could really sympathize and understand what he was trying to accomplish yet at the same time, despised/loved him at the same time.
Watch this show ASAP. This is one psychological thriller that you shouldn't miss. You won't be disappointed. I can't wait for the movie and the second season to come out.
Well this was definitely better than the first Hobbit film as there was no hour long goblin chase scene. I found the movie to be pretty enjoyable particularly the dynamic scenes between Smaug and Bilbo, and the extended character development of Bilbo and Thorin. The action was great fun although drawn out and unrealistic/ridiculous at times (like all Peter Jackson films). Someone just has to get Peter Jackson a damn editor already. I honestly don't know what other scenes he could possibly add on to a Special Edition version (but I know that he probably has a million). Still, I'll be ready for my final trip back to Middle Earth next year.
Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy wa Machigatteiru is my favorite SOL comedy from this past summer. It stars the legendary 8man (Hachiman) who is hands down one of my favorite MCs to grace the screen. He plays the apathetic loner role down to the tee but is hiding so much more depth (and badassness) in his character than meets the eye. Along with Yukino and Yui (and the other fantastic characters), the show piles on layers and layers of incredibly witty banter and dialogue that got me instantly addicted. There's no real slapstick humor (which is a good change of pace) and there are the typical high school SOL scenarios (although there is some variety). However, the show shines brightest with its superb character development and interactions. Nothing beats a great battle of words between Hachiman and Yukinon. Now, immediately go watch 8man apathetically save the day in the way only he can.
This show was just pure awesome. This is definitely the best entry of the Tenchi Muyo series IMO (Tenchi Universe is great too along with the original OVAs) although it is a bit different from the older series. Geminar is actually a mecha harem show with the Tenchi name attached to it. It does delve a bit into the Tenchi mythos but it is more of a separate entity. This is definitely a different world than anything we've seen so far in the Tenchi series and you really get immersed into it. I love harems and this is probably one of the best out there especially with the superb action (well-done mecha action) and story that is incorporated into it. Definitely give this a try even if you're not a fan of harems or the Tenchi series. You'll be pleasantly surprised.
NouCome has been a hilarious show so far that uses a great novel concept with the "absolute multiple choice" mechanism. Although a little like Date A Live (with the choices), NouCome takes it to the extreme as the 2 choices are usually completely insane, horrifyingly embarrassing, and raunchy at times. If Amakusa doesn't choose one, he gets a horrendous headache so it's literally do or die (of excruciating pain). Hilarity ensues not just from seeing Amakusa perform these acts, but also from the varied reactions from all the girls (and guys!!). The missions that are added later add even more interesting scenarios into the mix. I like the MC and the supporting females are solid but a bit stereotypical. However, this show is almost purely about the laughs. If you're looking for a solid comedy this season (with a tiny touch of romance), definitely check this out.
This is such a powerful and moving anime that deals with the effect of the loss of a loved one and how much it can deeply change us, young or old. In particular, the anime focuses on the effect of Menma's death as a young child on the 5 remaining "Super Peace Busters" group and it's very interesting to see how much her death has and, more interestingly, not changed this once close group of friends. There is an incredible driving force of guilt and jealously that permeates throughout the show, and so this anime is ultimately a story about the journey to resolve these emotions in order to let Menma rest in piece. A lot of the characters may not be completely likable in certain ways due to each one having every obvious flaws, but all those serious flaws interacting with each other are the times when the anime shines best. This is definitely a roller coaster of emotion (perhaps some tears along the way) but I loved the ending which resolves things very nicely. This is a touching story and a can't miss if you're interested in a more dramatic and moving anime. Watch it!!
I can only think of one thing when the great series Nodame Cantabile pops up into my mind... "GYAAAAAAAAAAAABO!" This is one of the finest animes that I've watched and if you have any interest in slice of life, romance/comedy and music, this is a no-brainer. You'll instantly fall in love with all of the characters, and the ever-developing dynamic between Chiaki and Nodame is truly a joy to behold. I can't get enough of the comedy in this series with the goofball Nodame anchoring it all down. The story is very well-done following the journey of these two through their college lives, with their love toward each other and with music. And my god. The music. If you have any interest in music, you'll be floored by all the spectacular classical pieces that they've worked into each episode. Time after time, the creators interweave a character's real-time analysis and feelings/emotions about a piece being played almost as a substitution for direct dialog to progress through countless critical scenes. You'll truly find depth in the pieces that could take an individual a life-time to notice. This is without a doubt one of the most fantastic romantic comedy animes out there (right there with Toradora although with less drama). Do yourself a favor and watch this ASAP.
This is one of my favorite slice of life animes with cool twists with Haruhi essentially being a god and there being time traverlers, aliens and espers all in the mix. The first season is magnificent and while the Endless Eight is brutal to watch all the way through, the rest of season 2 is still great too. Just watch the first 2 and last 2 episodes of EE. Haruhi is probably one of the best female protagonists that I've seen with her energy, impulsivity and overall passion and Kyon is the perfect foil to her craziness. Each episode is entertaining and a joy to watch over and over again. And the movie, The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya, is just brilliant and makes up for the disappointment of EE. You'll need to watch the series (and make sure to watch it in chronological order, not the season order) to get the movie, but it's completely worth it.
Baka and Test is absolutely one of the funniest animes/shows that I've ever watched. I could literally watch multiple episodes over and over again and never get tired of them. The humor translates very well across the dub and for the most part won't be lost on American audiences. The voice acting and dialog are superb which is very important for a comedy like this. You'll fall in love with each of the characters (Kouta & Hideyoshi!!!) as each are very unique and fill a critical (and stereotypical) role. It's over the top and I love it. If you're looking for a great comedic anime, look no further than Baka and Test.
This is an absolutely fantastic anime that tackles very mature and graphic themes, such as discrimination, abandonment, and just pure suffering. I really liked how all these tiny pieces and story lines tied together from the beginning up until the very end (even the OVA). The relationships between the characters and the support that they build for each other from their own miserable experiences and pain are truly remarkable. It shows that good can come out of such horrible things. I will warn that this anime is incredibly graphic (gore, nudity, abuse, etc) but it's there for good reason. The story is well done and the animation does not really show its age. This is a great watch if you're in the mood for a dark anime.
I love my rom/coms and my tsunderes and Toradora! certainly did not disappoint. It's one of the best anime rom/coms that I've ever seen (tied right with Clannad) and is a must watch if you have any interest in the genre at all. While the overall story may be a bit on the predictable side, there are plenty of surprising twists and turns along the way. The characters are what truly shine in Toradora! in how they develop and depend on each other to how each one of their flaws and fears are gradually revealed. The voice acting and music are superb as well. This is truly one of the best stories about the development of true love between a "Tiger and Dragon". Just watch it.
This is a great anime about true friendship and how the love of a single thing like jazz can spark something that will last a lifetime. The relationships that are developed in this show are amazing and I love how jazz is so intricately woven into everything. A must watch for sure.
