No, just your run-of-the-mill crazy girl.

And we finally seem to stand on the verge of the conclusion, with Kuijreika (shock!) going crazy (unless you consider not letting your people fight back just so you can take all the glory and try and fulfil the non-existent expectations of your dead mother due to your sister issues “sane”) and crushing the invading force (still don’t know who’s attacking who in this war) while Akiyuki and Haru arrive at the main location of the Quickening, whatever that is.

The imagery of tears in this episode was almost too prevalent. It seems like it could’ve been done with a bit more subtlety, say if Yango hadn’t BAWWWW’d his eyes out at Nakiami leaving/ hiding her ture feelings. I really just don’t like the kid. On the other hand, it was well done with characters like Kuijreika and Midori showing how secretly the two were both secretly mourning the fact that they were trapped by their own insecurities and the expectations of others.

The nameless Tessikan soldier who died about 5 minutes after he was introduced had the most impact on me, mostly due to his unflinching dedication and, most likely, love for Kujireika and the fact this happened to him:

Ouch. Rest In Peace, oh respectable and heroic nameless one.

I’m not really sure what’s going on with Sentan Island (other than what’s occuring with Midori.) Ryuzo seems to be static, while his general friend seems to be the most active, although what significance his actions will play has yet to be revealed, I think we’ll be seeing more of him from now on.

Hopefully, we’ll get more of Kujireika going mad and wrecking things next episode. Just beacuse she isn’t a delicious yandere, doesn’t mean I don’t like complete madness in my anti-heroines.

Diggin’ Akiyuki’s long haired look :P.

A million times more painful than you could imagine.

So, the episode pretty plays out as you’d think it would, only with a few more GIAnT BLACK SNAKES and Lances of Longinous than expected. It wouldn’t have bothered me so much if 1. Taku had actually managed to win the “fight” without the help of every girl in the show (as well as a crippled, diseased 10 year old) and 2. they hadn’t decided to play that distorted version of Traditional Japanese Crosswalk Lights Music (there’s a name for it, but I can’t remember). That was instead of disturbing, just EXTREMELY irritating, to the point I’d hoped Taku would just die so the music would stop. What was welcome was Taku getting a stake shoved up his… back. I think the censoring even lended something to the experience; only the visceral sounds and shadow of Taku gave any hint that such a torturous event was taking place.

Final Impressions:

So what was good about Chäos;HEAd?

• The music was fantastic and really well used. Every track fit the scene that was taking place perfectly but what really stood out was the direction, at  the points that were, at the very least, supposed to be disturbing. It’s sad that the calibre of the show didn’t match up to the calibre of the music.

And what wasn’t so good?

• The animation was average bordering on truly terrible at times, they should’ve put less money into animating Taku’s quivering eyes and more money into drawing faces properly.

• The plotline was pretty stock , and as I said before any sense of mystery about the show was eliminated when you could predict  how the series was going to continue after the big reveal about Nozomi and Noah way back in episode 6 or so.

• The characters were all pretty terrible/cliched/uninteresting/harem-esque/annoying, except for Shogun and Rimi, who had a surprisingly loving and warm relationship (about the only good relationship in the entire show.)

• Voice-acting and dialogue were all just kind of “meh”, the dialogue especially was needlessly convuluted at times and stupidly simple at others, but you could put that down to the pointless use of science in the show (it really was unecessary to hear about the Dirac Sea in a show about harems and giant swords).

Chäos;HEAd can be summed up in one word: dissappointing. All the expectations I got from the first episode of the show were dashed one by one throughout its entire run. I thought Taku would eventually develop into a human being. I thought that the harem elements would slowly dissappear and be replaced by a disturbing, Higurashi-like atmosphere and as such there would be needless amounts of blood, violence and gore combined with mystery and conspiracy in the show. I thought we’d even possibly get a few decent sword-fights out of it. It’s the kind of show where you just keep waiting and waiting for a payoff that never comes. The show got steadily worse as it contued and further and further away from its true potential. If you’re holding out to watch the entire show at a later date, I wouldn’t recommend it. And if you were unfortunate enough to have expectations of the series and watch the whole thing, weep with me. Weep bitter tears.

That’s how long it took for Taku to grow a pair.

Chaos;Head manages to redeem itself slightly in these four episodes. Rather than focusing on the irritating harem elements or nonsensical science, we finally delve into the mysterious/psychological aspect of the show, though it isn’t nearly as interesting or disturbing as it could’ve been. For example, the “divine punishment” that Ayase went through was… water dripping on her face for two weeks. Meh, I guess the fact that it was at EXACT FIVE SECOND INTERVALS was the reason her mind broke. It does bring to the forefront an interesting thought, though it’s a bit late in the series to be theorising about anything: that the Di-Swords are created through periods of extreme psychological stress.

The show had a way of wrapping up Kozupii’s and Sena’s stories which seemed kind of rushed and insubstantial, by which I mean I didn’t give a crap about either of them or their history. At least Sena’s was disturbing enough to involve a dead baby sister (*shudder*) but Kozupii just had some weird issues with identity that weren’t really explained and then were solved by GARkumi. Yua’s just irritating and useless, her reasons for following Takumi were explained within a total time frame of about 3 minutes and then I guess we’re supposed to assume she dealt with it because she got a sword. I really don’t care about her or her twin sister issues, and it seems like the creators don’t either since she had absolutely no part in helping any of the other characters.

The detective simply sucked at his job then got shot by his subordiante, Suwa, who hilariously went crazy and started waving his gun and stakes around. To be honest, I just laughed at that entire scene, perhaps I’m just a sadist and a disturbed individual, but those two were so insignificant that to see one of them go turncoat and kill the other as if we were supposed to be shocked (they showed him going evil inthe OP) or feel empathywas just great entertainment. Ah well, if it’s of any consolation, the killer got reverse-Gigalomaniaxed by Takumi. Divine punishment!

BRAINS!!!

I hate censors. That hand should be a bloody stump. In fact, the entire show’s just been annoying in terms of QUALITYanimation and censoring. I don”t understand why they can show someone being crucified with stakes pointing out of their body and blood everywhere, and yet they can’t show any blood coming from the nurses neck when she stbas herself. I wanted Higurashi levels of violence, dammit! Also, the animation’s just been getting poorer and poorer over the last few episodes, with some ruly terrible shots cropping up that I’m not even going to bother to screencap. Surprisingly, the actual fight scenes aren’t too bad. There not even in the same galaxy as Soul Eater, but hell, they could be worse. What I don’t understand was when a bunch of giant insects just exploded out of everyone’s backs, what the hell was that about?

And so we get to the crux of the entire show, with Taku, Rimi and the not-so-mysterious Shogun’s origins being revealed. Turns out Shogun… IS TAKU!!! Wasn’t so much of a surprise that. What’s confusing is why exactly Shogun’s so damn old, probably som sort of disease that the creator’s couldn’t be bothered to mention, or Taku somehow sucking life energy from him. Anyway, Taku’s a delusion that Shogun created who can real-boot delusions, so that he (Taku) could stop Nozomi’s plans. Only he royally f*cked up by making him a terrible human being. TakuXRimi blah blah blah go bother Hinan0 for your shipping.

One more episode and we’re at the end of this less-screwed-up-than-it-should’ve-been show. Yay!!!

Obey!!!

I’m starting to get tired of episodic blogging, mostly because I took on too many shows at once and didn’t keep a steady schedule (nor did the fansubs, and before you say it, omo, I know Xam’d isn’t “airing” anywhere) so I’m keeping it short and sweet from now until the next season for all my posts, where I’ll probably only take on one show over here.

Episode 17

Though Xam’d isn’t a boring show per se, I feel like the extenstive build up and hints towards future events rather than many things actually happening in the show hurts my experience of the show as a whole. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy the character interaction, dialogue and subtle cinematic techniques, but it just seems as if the show moves kind of slowly and unless a show is really amazing that’ll probably mean I get disinterested somewhere along the line. Those are just overall thoughts though, as there were plenty of moments this episode to ponder, laugh at and be creeped out by.

I loved the atmosphere of the farms and Akiyuki being somewhat a messenger of death, delivering letters to people who’s loved ones had died in the war. The peaceful imagery of Amau placed next to people breaking down in front of him as well as that creepy monologue somehow coming from EYETOY (copyright omo) seemed to just create a depressing and distubring air to me.

Kakisu’s a douche, that’s just a given now.

I have no idea why Prois let Haru out (jealousy?) but there mst be some sort of logical reasoning behind her actions. Either that or she just plain crazy. Point is, now Haru’s out and ready to find Akiyuki/save her sister. W00T GO HARU!

Episode 18

Any idea of Kujireika being a “Queen bitch”, as it were kind of disappeared now that we found out that she’s pretty much a less completely crazy version of Furuichi. You’d think someone’d be monitoring her actions in some way, or that there’d be someone akin to Nakiami in the tribe who’d be opposed to young maidens slitting their wrists and creating drugs steroids body-strengtheners.

Hell yeah, Haru’s on her way! Though I’m kind of disappointed that she didn’t do much of anything to stop her sister beyond saying “Don’t go there, it’s dangerous”, I know she’s focused on meeting Akiyuki but I thought her one and only crippled younger sister who’s having her mind and body corrupted right in front of her would’ve been a higher priority. Midori’s intentions (other than “wanting to be able to run” again) remain unclear to me but this can’t end well, for anyone involved. Also, I lol’d at Kakisu’s frustration at Haru’s note. God, you’re an asshole, Commander.

The Zanbani’s on the move again, or at least Raigyo and Ishu (who to be honest are the only characters I really care about of that entire group at the moment) so we’re (shock!) building up to the beginnning of the EndGame here; it seems things’ll be centred around this “Quickening Chamber” we keep hearing about. Akiyuki is… still trying to remember his name. I hope they don’t stay in that retreat for too long as crazy old somehow able to understand the thoughts of EYETOY lady irritates me somewhat.

Episode 19

First off, WTF at Sumako being Kakisu’s mother. Not much else to say there just… kind of a random plot twist, the purpose of which I don’t really understand.

Anyway, Kakisu the asshole’s just complete poisond for Midori and Azami’s prediciotion taht she’ll suffer soon just makes me feel more and more sorry for her. Not only that, but now she knows the reason that Kakisua and whcihever army he’s affiliated with (still not keeping track of who’s on what side or the war or anything) came to make war not peace she’s 1. Got to feel terrible and 2. got to feel trapped because we all know that Kakisu does’t let people go who he considers may be useful “assets.”

Haru’s so awesome in this episode, especially with her SHINBUDO DROP-KICK. It’s also strange to still see comedic relief coming in at this point in the story, especially with all the emo/suicidal momemts that occur in the episode. How will the Zanbani crew deal with their leader leaving them? How the hell should I know?

Meh, Kujireika, Nakiami, sibling rivalry, tension, fight bla blah blah. To be honest, I’m bored with Kujireika after the, what, two episodes she’s been in? I just wish she’d hurry up and go crazy so that someone’ll kill her.

I awwww’d at the field of flowers on the coast. Then at Haru saving Akiyuki through LOVE POWA~~. Then at Akiyuki growing Eureka Wings- wait, WTF?

I’m just going to push that to the back of my mind for future reference. This also marks one of the rare cases where we have events after the credits in Xam’d and I have to thank omo for pointing it out as I had already skipped to the previews before seeing such a CRUCIAL piece of information. Turns out the EYETOY was the Hiruken Emperor who wants Akiyuki to kill him. Duh duh duh….

Oh! Perhaps the Quickening Chamber is the room where the Hiruken Emperor is in isnide that mysterious Tower…

Next Episode

Just realised, that arm looks like that kid’s…

Hell yeah I’m still blogging this show. Because it’s freaking awesome, that’s why.

Episode 2

Well, the second episode of Michiko doesn’t disappoint and does what I’d hope it would’ve in the first place: developing Michiko and Hatchin’s relationship and the characters themselves. The relationship between Michiko and “Jumbo” and their interactions with each other are hilarious. It’s obvious they grew up together, and though the “one friend becomes a cop, the other a criminal” dynamic appears a lot on television these days, it works quite well here due to Michiko’s fun loving attitude and ability to screw with Atsuko. It’s obvious Atsuko’s going to play the fool (i.e Michiko will constantly slip through her fingers no matter what she does) for a while in the show, but beyond that I’m not sure what’s going to happen with her. Seeing Michiko all deredere for Hiroshi shows us her weaker side and makes her seem a bit more (dare I say it) feminine. For now, she’s mostly attached to Hatchin due to her being the daughter of her lost lover (and proof that he may still be alive) but over time, and even towards the end of this episode, it’ll be great to see the two becoming closer, especially now that crazy priest and his family are out of the way (they’re so worthless I don’t even remember their names).

Episode 3

That entire scene with the fortune teller was hilarious. Michiko’s naivete and innocent fascination placed along side Hatchin’s skepticism demonstrated the kind of offset relationship I’d hope we’d get in the show. Despite being treated like a rag doll for her entire life, Hatchin’s grown up with a good sense of morality, and she’ll definitely be the one to suppress Michiko’s passion (take that however you want it ^_^) in the future. The store manager was an amusing, if seemingly temporary, side character; he was rough, callous and harsh, yet at the same time he was quirky and seemed to admire Hatchin’s tenacity, and for that he gets + points. Also, loved the symbolism of the hair cutting, also a bit too prevalent in anime but hey, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Michiko’s like a dolled-up school girl by the end of this episode, but what bothers me is that she seemed so affected by seeing whoever that man was. Was it because she was stunned that it wasn’t Hiroshi and her hopes had been dashed, or because it was Hiroshi and he’d already started a family elsewhere? In any case, this simply solidifies the relationship between the two further, since at this point on they mostly have to rely on each other for support the other needs.

Episode 4

First, I must say, Drunk Hatchin is awesome.

There were clear similarities, at least physically, between Pepe Lima/Lulu and Michiko/Hatchin but what was significantly different were their personalities. Michiko’s already been defined as a strong, take-no-shit-from-anyone woman, but Pepe has had to compromise with herself and those around her to survive in the harsh world of the slums and protect her sister after losing everything in that extremely well done flashback scene (seriously, three beautiful stills with a short narrative; effective and efficient). Rico was surprisingly entertaining at first, but then quickly disgusting, beating women and running a syndicate of child killers out of his godforsaken house. But what really gets me is that after this episode, nothing will change in the dirty underbelly of the city. We’ve simply looked at one side-story with a tragic ending, which seems only to further solidify the sense of hopelessness there is for any of those children or countless others in the city. The final encounter between Michiko and Pepe was excellent in numerous ways, but primarily for me there was a slow and deliberate build up carnival drims in the background; the atmosphere was palpably tense as the music went spiralling towards its ineivitable crescendo with the death of Pepe Lima. There isn’t even time to feel anything but shock immediately afterwards due to the episode’s abrupt ending and any form of a preview, but I have a sneaking suspiscion that we’ll simply move on regardless of Pepe and her sister, as the circumstances opf their disappearance (demise?) leaves almost nothing “A Continuar”.

Coburn has a great write-up that just has to be mentioned.

Episode 5

Poor, poor Pepe ;_;. Anyway, more light is shed on the origins of Michiko (though there wouldn’t be much to say about Hatchin’s background). She was just as badass and irresponsible 12 years ago (thigh crushing and head butting ftw), but that time her seemingly inconsequential actions took their toll, as many died after her meeting with suave Cyril and the Fantasma organisation. This episode highlights the gritty underworld that Michiko managed to stumble into and we also finally meet Hiroshi in person, who seems like an honest and down-to-earth guy (what other type of guy would expose their identity just to give a topless girl a shirt? Hell, what man would ever give a hot topless girl a shirt?)  The show knows how to strike the right balance between flashbacks and current events; actions in the future seem more and more justified after learning some of the past.The old lady seemed to have a connection to (Satoshi (though i say this only because the kid she was chastising looked similar to Satoshi’s photo), <— lolwrong ) Michiko and Hiroshi, so she may have some old memories to dredge up which’ll present more info on the characters.

Hatchin’s temper tantrrum was cute and heartwarming;  after having known Michiko for just a few weeks she’s already become attached to her enough to notice the loneliness and regret she feels.One person who still remains a mystery is Satoshi Batista. He seems to have taken the reins of Montros after Hiroshi’s “death” and guided it to great success (as described by the crossdressing afro man. Yeah, you heard me.) and I think he’ll be a large obstacle for the two later on in the series.  At the very least he seems more capable than Cyril’s bitch associate, Vasili, who experienced some serious weight gain over the years and probably couldn’t take revenge on Michiko without being airlifted into her vicinity.

Episode 6

What an awesome episode. Compared to all the drama and tragedy of the last 3, this was really lighthearted. Though I do wish we could’ve seen a bit more of the history behind Fantasma and their relation to Michiko, it was great to go and look back at Michiko’s history at the orphanage (though I say orphanage, I mean house of for-sale children) with “Jumbo”. I especially loved how the old woman completely pwned Michiko with her wine bottle ^_^. Vasili turnd out to be a red herring of an antagonist; he’s just crazy and worthless, god knows how he managed to become head of Fantasma. Like I said, the entire climax of the episode, with Michiko’s Zorro-like rescue of Hatchin (who tried to take on a bull with a ladel. A ladel.) was hilarious, a combination of little nuances of comedy (So, Michiko can catch swords? I believe that…) and plain slapstick that really worked well. This is more like what was in the OP and what I expected from the show; don’t get me worng, the drama works exceptionally well but I’d rather have the show take a step back from itself and revel in the comedic possibilities of the situation (like Samurai Champloo) rather than being tragic like episode 4.

Fear it!

I’m not really sure why the creators of this show decided to doss about for 6 episodes with hints, mysteries and harems only to do a HUGE information dump in this episode. If you really want to know what all of these terms mean, 7’s got some reasonable explanations, but otherwise I’m going to glaze over the entire scientific portion of the show; in my opinion, all you really need to know is that Nozomi are an evil organisation and that Sena and Kozu-pii (KYAAAHH!!! SO CUTE!!!) are trying to stop them. Why exactly, I have no clue. How Sena knows so much, also no clue. But then this wouldn’t be the abysmal Chaos Head we all know and love if you could figure it out straight away, would it?

I think what we have with Ayase is a mixture of startling insight and complete insanity, all wrapped up in a cold, semi-emotionless exterior. Her thought process is a complete mystery to me, but at this point in the story it’s becoming clear that the “Legend of the Black Knights” refers to the Di-Sword Users, Gigalomaniacs (who the hell came up with that name?), so there must be some sort of mysterious evil beyond Nozomi that exists for the harem to fight.

This guy has the look of someone who 1. is an evil and ambitious megalomaniac and 2. will eventually betray his two colleagues in the near future. He’s already been reprimanded for disobeying orders to a certain extent, so I’d say in about 2 episodes time he’ll be the one pulling all the strings. Basically, Nozomi are creating illusions for the population though the use of their Noah II machines for an as yet unknown goal. If he turns out to be related to Sena, I shall *headdesk*

The effect of the earthquake and the change in people’s biorhythms is clear; the people of Shibuya are slowly descending into chaos. Add to this Nozomi’s illusions and it seems like the cities on the brink of a man-made disaster.

Short post, but I said I wasn’t going to get into the science and that made up a large proportion of this episode. One last point: Taku’s “special” (hell, that’s the only reason he could be surrounded by so many hawt girls) as he’s able to real-boot (i.e make an illusion reality) without a Di-Sword. Though, even that seems slightly doubtful, because of what we see here:

Pink.

*facepalm*

Next Time:

Delicious fighting.

Raigyo, you dumbass.

Episode 15

Just Akiyuki’s luck to be caught up in the slave trade, though considering the fact he’s gone completely spacy, I don’t think he’ll be complaining about it much. What’s interesting is that weird eye thing seemed similar to the wierd blob thing that seemed to mindrap Haru in Episode 12. Were they from the same weird blob thing then this could be the key to Akiyuki getting back his memories; only time will tell.

Furuichi’s death is all but confirmed, unfortunately. If I had seen a cell- sorry, a “prepared room” like that I would’ve run away as fast as possible. It’s really surprising to me that Haru didn’t think it might not have been the best idea to descend into the dark cellar with bars on the windows and a steel door, but hey, maybe she’s got some sort of plan. Though why she wouldn’t at least try to leave when Prois said “Everyone cries at first” is beyond me.

The segregation and general dislike for Tessicians is brought up again in this ep, though I’m struggling to see why people dislike them exactly; perhaps they’re seen as thieves or gypsies of some sort. That kid very much irritates me, mostly due to the cloying and slurred sound of his voice, but seeing how he develops with Nakiami alongside him is still something I’m looking forward to, as I wouldn’t be surprised if he becomes an ally in the future. Too bad we had to lose the amazing Beat Kayak though, and what’s even worse is those Generic Anime Thugs are going to sell it off to a chop shop ;_;.

It surprised me that the chubby, random Sentan Island commander who seemed incompetent and incapabale turned put to be one of Ryuzo’s war buddies. What exactly has the good doctor completed, I wonder? We also have the deaths of one of the Jibashiri, which means that after more than 10 episodes, we’re finally going to see Lady Sannova do something.

Episode 16

One thing that really stood out to me during this episode was the dialogue. It contained a mixture of insight, allusion, comedy and hints towards the future of the show that really had me engaged the whole time. Like this gem from Raigyo:

“Who doesn’t like drinking a toast out of empty shell casings?”

This show also knows how to get place just the right camera angle at the right time to conjure up emotion and awe, which goes to show you don’t need stellar animation to create amazing shots (Though, this being BONES, I’m not sure to what extent I can say that :P) I hate racism in any form which is why it both angers and saddens me to see the way Tessicians are treated in the show. The war’s taking it’s toll on many, thought I’m still not sure what exactly the goal of it is (though there’s never normally a good reason for war). It’s great how the series always manages to look at the destruction and repercussions of the ongoing war without making it seem cheesy or, on the other hand, emotionless; it’s even shown in the very title of the episode, “Burning in Our Wake”. Delicious subtlety.

Ugh, now they’re even grabbed Midori. From this point on I’m pretty sure we can see Prois and Kakisu as antagonists, though not so much with the doctor (completely forgotten his name); he’s tied to Ruikonism in a big way, considering his reaction to seeing Azami, but why did he have to pick a disabled child to take Azami’s place? In any case, Kakisu’s going to be in the shadows watching from now on. I loved that moment when Azami just looked Kakisu straight in the eyes and told him about his Mama issues, he needs to have his psychological cage rattled every now and again.

Awwww sad Nakiami in the snow. Yango’s having a positive effect on Nakiami, getting her to open up a little more (I lol’d at how she said her heart used to be closed; so what we’ve seen up until now was and open and welcoming Nakiami).

Finally, things get moving again. I’m all for slowing down and taking some time out (heck, this episode was great) but it’s also the sense of something bubbling below the surface and building up that keeps me watching the show. Not only has that girl, Nazuna, finally woken up after 14 episodes, but Azami’s become a prophet of dangers beyond the horizon. What is the Quickening? Why must the Xam’d gather at the Hiruko’s Advent? What darkness threatens to consume the souls of many? It highlights the fact that in the show there hasn’t really been a Big Bad Evil that must be fought yet (I don’t count the Northern Government as such, that’s kind of removed frmo the overall storyline for me). Haru actually has a reason to get out of there other than finding Akiyuki, so hopefully we’ll see more of her epic encopunters in the future. Speaking of Akiyuki:

He’s been bought by some crazy old wheelchair lady. Hmm…

Next Time:

The false Queen Bitch.

I’m not sure if that’s the same pun in English as “Lambs to the Slaughter”. Interesting connotations.

Shiro’s 10 times more awesome than Taku will ever be.

Episode 5

I loved the entire dream sequence as it gave some hints as to the progression of the story or, more specifiacally , Taku’s and Rimi’s relationship. It was also the first time that Taku didn’t sound like a whiny son of a bitch who needed to have some sense slapped into him.

Okay, I know Taku’s a despicable human being and I shouldn’t expect anything from him, but what kind of a bastard just ignores someone who trips over right in front of their face? That’s just not chivalrous, man, have some respect for both yourself and the people around you. You don’t deserve the awesome plaster (of thanks?) you received from Kozue.

So now Taku thinks that Sena’s the one having delusions, rather than himself, who only sees his imaginary magical girl wife everyday. Dumbass. Anyway, seems like things got a bit scientific at this point (though I’m not sure what the chain’s suposed to represent) and everyone’s stuck in a Matrix-like universe where whatever they can imagine (their delusions) can become reality, but only if those poeple are “chosen” or whatever you want to call it. The only thing that’s truly important is that this goes some way towards explaining the accident that Taku may have caused in his childhood and the giant swords that members of his harem are carrying around.

Hey, Yua’s back and I have no idea why she’s still here. The whole “repeating essentialy the same phrase in various ways” thing still irritates me and having extreme pity for Taku with his Dissociative Identity Disorder (at least as she believes) is in complete contrast to her initial appearance and interogation. If we don’t get a concrete reason for her being here soon, I’m just going to write her off as meganekko fanboy bait, like Nana, who’s siscon fanboy bait.

SMASHING REALITY FIST. I loved the way that scene was done and it kind of reminded me of Evangelion for some reason. Hopefully, with this Taku begins on the road to becoming less of a complete FAILURE and more of a PIMP. That’s essentialy what the show seems to be about: how to become leader of your very own harem by being unbelievably pathetic.

Cops = still incompetent and useless, but one interesting thing we learnt was that shit’s about to go down in Shibuya because of uneven gravity distribution affecting the biorhythms of young people’s psyche, or something. At least the show’s not just saying “It’s MAGIC” and is using doubtful science to try to justify these events. One last thing, the suicide scene was creepy as hell due to the whole way it was done, a dark rooftop, silent except for the wind, filmed on a LQ camera. Can anyone say Blair Witch, only in a bustling metropolis in Japan?

Episode 6

What’s the first thing you do when you see a bishoujo? Run outside and vomit, of course. If the writers haven’t hammered it in enough, you may just be able to tell that Rimi supports Taku whole-heartedly and they’re getting closer and closer as friends and lovers. Just maybe. What is love if not holding someone while they’re being sick? It’s also surprising people actually care about mysterious deaths occuring all over the city? Social activism (read: chanting the mantra of “DESTROY THE DEVILS”) is sure to stop the New Gen Events. That was not a sarcastic statement.

I didn’t see the doctor’s death coming at all. That really wasn’t a sarcastic statement, I was honestly surprised as I thought he’d be some sort of spy for the Nozomi organisation who finally get another mention this episode. It’s quite clear that the machine for “looking into people’s minds” that Sena destroyed (F*CK YEAH, ACTION, FINALLY; Di-swords look even better materialised) is possessed by Nozomi, but the real question is what they intend to do with it. It’s probably going to be take over/re-shape/conquer the world, but I can always hope for something deeper in this show about magical swords, harems and crazy otaku delusions.

I’m starting to think there must be some sort of defect with all of the girls in the harem. Ayase’s been in a mental hospital, Kozue keeps having headaches of MADNESS, Sena can’t stop theorising that everyone’s stuck in the Matrix and eating Gari Gari-kuns or whatever they’re called, Nana’s an IRRITATING younger sister, Yua’s got OCD because she has to say something at least 5 times in any conversation and, most horrfying of all, Rimi’s actaully attracted to Taku. Delicious deficiencies.

Blah blah blah bullshit science discussed between the inept detective and a man-woman. Basically, a researcher into the gravity/GE phenomenon mentioned in the show was the person crucified by Rimi, and this was before he could go public with his findings. Culprit = Nozomi? You decide.

Best part of the episode, as quoted from myself:

The slow transition of the ringtone commonly heard at crosswalks in Japan (Shogun? Shibuya? Crosswalks? I see what you did thar.) to the insane sound of an ambulance screeching throughout the city. Shit’s about to get started.

Takumi Delusions Awards Part 5

#3 Bokusatsu Senshi Seira-tan

Wake up or I’ll beat you to a pulp ^_^!

#2 Ayase Double Mizugi Combo

Sparkling wet moesplosion.

#1 Hot (in more than one way) Rimi

I could make a vulgar and tasteless joke about drinking something else to quench her thirst, but I won’t.

Next Time:

Taku gets the crap beaten out of him. Yay!

Just because I don’t hate him as much, doesn’t mean he’s not a douchebag.

Episode 13

I’ve always loved the relationship between Yunko and Ishu, they’re so supportive in each other. DRINKING FIXES EVERYTHING.

The further we get into this series, the more Kakisu looks like a villain, which funnily enough is the exact opposite of how I thought he’d turn out to be. He’s just so cold and unfeeling, ready to turn in the son of the man who saved his life without batting an eyelid. You could perceive that as dedication to his military, but considering the fact that most of the way the military works seems to irritate and/or sicken him, that doesn’t seem like a viable option. What exactly is his stake in all this?

Best greeting ever. Akiyuki just shows up at his father’s house after disappearing for weeks and they’re like “Yo, I’m back”, “Welcome home” and revert to their normal style of conversation. Father son bonding ftw. We already know that Ryuzo knows all about the Hiruko, but now he knows Akiyuki’s a Xam’d, maybe he’ll be able to support his son in some way (though from far, far away. Akiyuki ain’t comin’ back for a while).

This and the later scene of episode are a great turning point for Haru’s character. Hearing her say she loved can’t live without Akiyuki after all this preamble was really gratifying. With this, the HaruXAkiyuki combo seems pretty set in my mind; previously, Nakiami and Akiyuki never seemed to give off that vibe of hot passionz loving each other.

That was a really well done scene, showing just the right amount of love, loss and desperation (whoever gets the reference gets a cookie) with the paralells between Akiyuki’s reminiscence at the beginning of the episode and Fusa’s description of his mischievous youth. Seems kind of harsh that Akiyuki would leave a tantalizing memento for his mother, then run off, but it’s probably due to the fact that had he met her, she would’ve tied him up, shoved him in his room, locked the door, bolted the windows and never, ever, EVER let him go outside again. This way, she can at the very least know he’s safe. (Side Note: Love the half-face shots in the episode, though I’m not sure why.)

B’AWWWWWW. Already said, delicious Haru emotional development.

Hey look, Furuichi’s gone insane. 12 CENTIMETERS OF HEIGHT GET. Can’t wait to see Akiyuki Kick his ass next ep.

Episode 14

Well, Akiyuki kicked Furuichi’s ass this ep. But not without him crying like a little baby over how he was never accepted, always in the shadow, always played second fiddle to Akiyuki blah blah blah. Okay, okay, he’s not as annoying or as easily hate-able as he’s been up to this point, and I did empathise with him. Ever so slightly. LOL at how his hatred kept him from turning to stone. Remember kids, the more you hate, the longer you’ll live. There were some weird transformations in this episode, Ghibli style. Though it was more hilarious than anything else.

Kakisu the new douchebag. Gets kidnapped and a broken arm after trying to deceive Akiyuki then using his golden PIMP revolver to take him out. Well, at the very least, Akiyuki knows not to trust that guy. Though the state he’s in now doesn’t mean he’ll remember that useful tidbit of information.

Yay memory loss! I can only assume that Akiyuki lost himself to the Hiruko beacause he stopped “thinking”. God knows what happened to Furuichi, with this final scene:

I don’t know if he’s dead or alive.

Well, just took a look at L/Ibrevis’ post (What’s your name now?) and these momentary thoughts of sympathy popped up:

And it seemed to me (and I’m the last guy that should be justifying Furichi the Douchebag’s actions) that the feelings of hatred and inferiority that he had were just amplified by the Hiruko. I think he does deserve our sympathy, as a boy sway to the supernaturl elements that seem rife in this crazy ass world.

Also, see Omo on some thoughts on “hands” in this episode. Delicious symbolism.

That joke never gets old.

So the disturbing refrain in the series which I first assumed was probing the depths of Taku’s mind and then assumed was a simple reference to the feeling Taku’s had all his life… turns into a meme. Damn the infectious nature of bloodstained writings on toilet stalls! The entire situation kind of cheapens the meaning of the phrase, but hell there probably wasn’t that much there to be pondered anyway (at least, that’s the opinion I hold for now. That’s the thing with episodic blogging, you’re constantly changing theories and perspectives. But that’s a good thing, no doubt ^^).

Can’t say that much about Sena, except for the fact she has some sexy feet idea of what’s going on around here. She seems like a typical rough and violent girl, but in my opinion, that’s a good thing for the masochists and I like the way she carries her Buster Blade Di-Sword. We have some new words like Error and Di-Sword whcih have absolutely no meaning whatsoever (except for the Di-Sword which is briefly explained in one of Talu’s many ramblings) so it leaves room for yet another couple of questions to pile on in this intriguing mystery.

Daisuke’s charm,wit and overall FABULOUSNESS pales in comparion to Taku’s amazing… MMORPG skills. Typical harem, nothing else to say. Though, I’d Kishimoto Ayase. In several ways. As I believe would many others. (Side Note: There are some scenes of serious QUALITY in this episode. It’s not HORRIBLE but it is irritating. Makes Taku look even more creepy, which is a hard thing to accomplish.)

Hey, the return of Dumb and Dumber! Now, if you’re a police officer and you meet a teenage boy on the street fitting the same description of a suspected murderer (backed up by video evidence) who then starts rambling about devil women, psychic abilities and brainwashing and then grabs your hand in a desperate plea for help screaming, nearly overcome by fear and insanity, what is proper police procedure? Leave him alone completely! Don’t even take him in for questioning, act like his friend so he trusts you and you can get closer to the heart of the case or whatever the hell it is that old man is trying to do (the yonuger one seems to have some semblance of intelligence).

Yeah, at this point, I don’t get what Rimi’s deal is anymore. She seems to be completely innocent in both her feelings for Taku and the fact she hasn’t been stabbing anyone since the first episode. She’s helping him more than anyone else can be bothered to (except for that god awful sister. Nana, DIE IN A FIRE.), she obviously cares about him and wants to make his babies so for now I’ll just have to trust that her intentions are benign. For now…

O.K, so  Yua was completely right in her assumption that Taku was Shogun. And Taku was completely right about his sleep-walking. And this tells us… nothing! Also, for some reason Taku’s original doctor has mysteriously disappeared. Right after seeing Taku return after years of not coming to the hospital. Just an extermely large coincedence, I’m sure.

Learning the true origin of the Di-Sword does mean we have one common thread: the legend of Gurajiooru. This makes it seem more and more likely that we’re heading for some delicious apocalyptic action. Taku’s a dumbass for thinking he could by such an epic weapon at a dingy trinket store. But props to the owner managing to squeeze his cash out of him like a wet sponge (And LOL at Taku’s Sword Skillz). I’m pretty sure that though the fake Di-Sword is a piece of crap, the bracelet he got with it that he gave to the irritating ball of siscon has some sort of significance in the future. The girl has to have some purpose other than crazy orange mandarin attacks. Oh, and don’t take Sena’s GariGari-kun. She will KICK YOUR ASS.

Token Loli finally takes centre stage! For 10 seconds. The underutilisation of lolois in this show is appaling. Anway, the fact that Kozue said that Taku was like him means that all too-far-gone otaku can somehow sense each other. Either that or she knows he has some sort of power, it’s too early to say. Though I wish the creators would try to focus on one character/plot thread at a time (where the hell is Yua anyway?) Also, the harem is complete!

Blah blah blah want solitude blah blah but not if everyone’s gone blah blah WHEELCHAIR ZOMBIE! So, that was random and cryptic like everything else in this show. The fact he says he’s Shogun and sounds about 1/5 of his age doesn’t help either. He tells Taku  to “Hurry up and “awaken”". Bet everyone’s forgotten about the Seira-tan Awakened version and wants that sexy Taku figurine instead. (Side Note: Ever since seeing Toki Wo Kakeru Shoujo, these types of scenes always make me think that someone’s causing a PIME TARADOX.)

Taku slap. Because about 90% of people who watch this show (or even watch-ed this show) want to do it.

Takumi Delusions Awards: Part 4

#3 I Want Me Some Sexy Wife Like That.

#2 Surprise Foot Action!

#1 It’s a Zombie. In a Wheelchair. In a Grayscale Shibuya. Epic \m/

Next Time:

Gettin’ a bit telekinetic up in here.

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