The Flash Mid-Season Review

The Flash, DC's second series to enter their expanding CW universe and much like Arrow, The Flash is off to an excellent start.

After witnessing his mother being murdered by a strange yellow lightning as a child, Barry Allen's father is wrongly imprisoned, and Barry is then taken in by Detective Joe West and his family. Years later, Allen becomes a criminal investigator working with Detective West in the Central City Police Department. When a failed science experiment exposed Central City and its inhabitants to an unknown radiation, Barry is also struck by lightning, which puts him in a coma for months and when he wakes up, he has incredible speed.

Plot: 7.5/10- Much like Arrow, most episodes of The Flash features moments of really poor writing among great overall content. The overall storylines are a lot of fun and manage to capture the superhero vibe sorely missing from DC's films. 

Tonally, the series is almost always fun, but still containing heart, another thing missing from the films. Most episodes consist of Barry battling new super villains with an over arching plot being hinted at throughout the series, and thus far, it works. However, the biggest flaw is how absurdly overpowered The Flash's powers are compared to normal crooks. While battling more superpowered foes, there are rarely any issues, but since he can go faster than the speed of sound and is shown to almost stop time, why can't he easily grab the gun out of the villain's hand before anyone realizes it? It is an annoyance that is a common occurrence.

Characterization: 8.7/10- The Flash's best aspect is the characters. Barry Allen, aka The Flash, is a very likable guy. Instead of the dark and brooding archetype DC has seemed to trademark in their films, Barry is almost like Marvel's heroes in the sense that he does not hate having powers or complain about it. 

Detective Joe West is the man who essentially adopted Barry when Barry’s father was sent to prison and the bond between Barry and Joe is a very well executed surrogate father-figure. Since he knows of Barry's secret identity from early on in the series, there are no annoying "Just tell him already!" moment, and Joe actually works with Berry to stop the bad guys, so their dynamic works. 

Iris West is Joe's daughter and Barry's romantic interest. Barry's unrequited love towards Iris is nothing original, but it is effective enough in the series. 

Dr. Harrison Wells, Cisco Ramon, and Dr. Caitlin Snow are Barry's support-team of geniuses that provide Barry with tech and other help. So far, the series has done some interesting things with the characters, and it makes me interested to know where the series is going next with them.

The biggest problem with the characters is the villains, who range from not bad to painfully corny. However, they are rarely a big enough issue to drag down the series.

Action: 7.7/10- Since The Flash's powers are not particularly conducive to stunning action sequences, the action is nowhere near the quality of Arrow, but it is still entertaining to watch.

Acting: 7.9/10- Grant Gustin's performance is a large part as to why Barry is such a likable character, and I doubt anyone else could have done a better job for a TV salary. The rest of the main cast is generally good with some of the villains being decent to bad at times.

Special effects: 8.5/10- For network television, the FXs look very convincing most of the time. Of course, there are moments when the effects are rather mediocre, but as a whole, they are surprisingly high quality for television.

Humor: 8.3/10- As expected with a series about The Flash, there is some great moments of humor throughout, especially how Barry uses his powers for everyday tasks.

Entertainment Value: 8.7/10- The series is just fun almost all of the time. It delivers weekly superhero fun and adventure, while not going campy or comical. 

Overall: 8.5/10- About halfway into the series, The Flash is a very fun and entertaining series with very likable characters. If you enjoy superhero stories, The Flash and Arrow should be towards the top of your watch-list!

Update: After reading some of the comments, maybe my opinion of the series is not clear enough because I am absolutely love this series. It is so fun and one of the highlights every week. For a first season, it is easily one of the best, and my rating of 8.5/10 is incredibly high for a first season. To compare, Arrow's first season received an 8.1/10 and that was great television. The Flash is already in my Top 3 Shows on Television right now.

If you want to contact us or have any questions please send an e-mail to johnstarslayer@gmail.com.

2015 Movie Preview Podcast

On today's podcast, Jordan and I discuss the upcoming films in 2015 in our 2015 Movie Preview podcast. The films are in order of release date, and if you want to skip to the movie that you are interested in, you can click here to go directly to the video and then you can click on the timestamps in the description. Please let us know what you think of the podcast in the comments, and sorry for the stuttering; I'm not sure why I could not talk well that day. Anyway, please enjoy, and you can check out our recent film reviews and lists in the links below.

If you are new to the blog, you can click here for my latest film reviews and more. Also do not forget to check out my recent Top 10 list about Romance Movies by clicking the links below, and check back tomorrow for my review of The Flash and on Wednesday for the first part of the Top 10 Comedies list.

Jordan's website: RATH'S REVIEWS.

My recent list:

Top 10 Romance Movies: Part 1

Top 10 Romance Movies: Part 2

Below are the movies that we discuss in order with the timestamps:
Kingsman: The Secret Service - 00:20
Focus - 1:10
Chappie - 2:26
Cinderella - 3:45
The Divergent Series: Insurgent - 5:30
Furious 7 - 7:00
Child 44 - 9:52
Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 - 8:50
Beyond the Brick: A LEGO Brickumentary - 10:15
Avengers: Age of Ultron - 10:38
Mad Max: Fury Road - 13:33
Pitch Perfect 2 - 14:58
Spy - 16:33
Tomorrowland - 17:57
San Andreas - 19:50
Jurassic World - 20:55
Inside Out - 23:11
Terminator Genisys - 25:07
Minions - 28:10
Ant-Man - 2:23
Pan - 33:30
Pixels - 35:04
Mission: Impossible 5 - 36:47
The Fantastic Four - 38:52
The Man from U.N.C.L.E. - 41:50
Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon: The Green Legend - 43:02
Hitman: Agent 47 - 45:04
The Maze Runner: Scorch Trials - 47:00
Frankenstein - 48:00
Crimson Peak - 48:40
SPECTRE - 50:00
The Hateful Eight - 5:40
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2 - 54:25
Creed - 56:02
The Good Dinosaur -57:43
In the Heart of the Sea - 59:08
Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens - 1:01:12
Point Break - 1:06:25
Ip Man 3 - 1:07:05
Grave of the Fireflies - 1:08:15

If you want to contact us or have any questions please send an e-mail to johnstarslayer@gmail.com.

Winter Anime Impressions: Part 3

My winter impressions continue with Junketsu no Maria, Durarara!!x2 Shou, Unlimited Fafnir, and World Break, although, due to some delays, these are more like mid-season reviews. Anyway, let’s do this!

Junketsu no Maria (Maria the Virgin Witch)

Set in France during the Hundred Years' War, Junketsu no Maria, aka Maria the Virgin Witch, follows Maria, a powerful witch, who adamantly tries to stop the war by using her magic and succubus servant to interfere with the warring factions. However, as word of her interference spreads, certain higher powers take notice and try to stop Maria. I will stop the plot summary there as to not spoil the series.

Due to the impressive visuals and a classic fantasy setting, Junketsu no Maria was one of my most hyped anime of the winter season, and while it has moments of brilliance, it is, unfortunately, not living up to what it could be. 

Classical fantasy is one of my favorite genres, and Junketsu no Maria's setting of using a real war from the past with elements of magic intertwined is very interesting. Even though the first episode is all around excellent, the series takes a turn for the worst in episodes two and three with an oddly heavy focus on crude humor that clashes with the rest of the series, almost to the point of ruining the entire experience; a lot of the material just falls on its face. Fortunately, episodes four and five seem to be taking a better direction, and maybe the series' plot can become more focused, because the concept and world are fascinating. 

As for the characters, Maria herself is very likable. She only wants to help, and her banter with the other characters is usually a lot of fun. The other characters are okay, but not terribly memorable.

A big selling point of the series is Production I.G.'s beautiful and unique art style. The animation brings the fantasy world to life with a lot soft round edges vibrant colors, which makes for an appealing world to just experience for 20 minutes every week. Maria's character design is particularly well done and is actually unique as it almost mixes Kiki's Delivery Service's designs with modern anime for great blend of the two styles. Unfortunately, along with the crude humor and dialogue, there is quite a lot of fanservice.

Junketsu no Maria has a lot of potential, and while it seems that it will not fulfill said potential, the characters, art style, and fantasy world will keep me coming back until the series' completion.

Watch if you like: Fantasy,

*7.2/10*

Warning: Recommended for mature audiences.

Durarara!!x2 Shou

Durarara makes it triumphant return in Durarara!!x2 Shou! Set several months after the events of the first season, Durarara is right back to what made the first season so much fun with its large cast of characters and relentless pace. As for the first season, it is a ton of fun, and after you watch Baccano, which is based on light novels by the same author that wrote Durarara, you should definitely give Durarara a watch. It is way too much fun, and the style is just the right amount of zany, without reaching Kill la Kill levels.

Going back to Durarara!!x2 Shou, it is just absurdly entertaining! And even though Brains Base did not return to animate the series, the new Studio Shuka matches the Brains Base’s perfectly. Of the sequels this season, Durarara is right up there with Stardust Crusaders 2 as the best. Apparently, the rest of the light novels are set to be adapted into an anime in the summer and next year’s winter season, which means there will be plenty of Durarara greatness to come, so there is no better time to catch up on the series than the present.

Watch if you like: The first season, Action, Fantasy, Unique style,

*8.5/10*

Seiken Tsukai no World Break (World Break: Aria of Curse for a Holy Swordsman)

Seiken Tsukai no World Break (World Break: Aria of Curse for a Holy Swordsman) is yet another derivative ecchi harem that in set in a fantasy world where certain people have the memories of their past lives as heroes (or villains) that can use magic to defeat monsters. Of course, the series is set in a high school where the characters learn how to use their powers. Despite being clichéd in setting, the characters are a little different than the norm.

Moroha Haimura, the main character, is the typical guy with special powers that make him better than everyone else. However, the supporting harem, especially, Shizuno Urushibara, do not fall into the overly shy or violent clichés that annoy me. Urushibara is surprisingly nonchalant whenever Haimura ends up in an awkward situation with her, which is nice, and despite being a tsundere-esque character, Satsuki Ranjō is very open about her affection for Haimura. The series plays out more like a love-triangle since the other girls having no real shot, even if one of the other girls harasses Haimura with an ear of corn (I cannot make this stuff up, but it is played for comedy).

Diomedéa’s animation is average, or slightly below, although it does not have a ton of horrible CGI, and the fanservice is not that bad for an ecchi.

World Break is just barely above average as an ecchi series that has an interesting concept that is likely to be pushed to the side. However, it is not a bad viewing experience, so I am going to keep watching.

Watch if you like: Ecchi, Fantasy,

*5.2/10*

An intentional kiss in the first 10 minutes, that's actually impressive for a harem.

Juuou Mujin no Fafnir (Unlimited Fafnir)

Unlimited Fafnir is set in a fantasy world where large dragons attack the world, and girls with the powers of dragons, referred to as “D,” appear. The series takes place on a special school for the “D,” and of course, being an all girls’ school, the world’s only male “D,” Yuu Mononobe, goes there and the plot for a typical ecchi/harem begins!

Honestly, there is not much to say about Unlimited Fafnir other than it is exactly like every other ecchi/harem that you have ever seen, although with a little less fanservice than most. Some of the concepts are relatively interesting, but as a whole, the series does nothing original. Studio Diomedéa’s animation is a little below average, and the 3D used is worse than something out of the 90s.

With all that said, Unlimited Fafnir is not a bad anime, just a completely average one, and it does provide a little entertainment. Having already invested the time to watch six episodes, I suppose I will go ahead and finish the series, but it is not recommendable.

Watch if you like: Ecchi,

*5.0/10*

What are you watching? Are you interested in any of the ones that I have reviewed today?

More Winter Impressions:
Assassination Classroom: First Impressions
Death Parade Episodes 1-3 Review
Kantai Collection: KanColle: First Impressions
The Rolling Girls: First Impression
Winter Anime Impressions: Part 1
Winter Anime Impressions: Part 2
Yatterman Night: First Impression

If you want to contact us or have any questions please send an e-mail to johnstarslayer@gmail.com.

Top 10 Romance Movies: Part 2

Today is Valentine's Day, and to conclude my Weekend of Romantic Fiction, here is the second and final part of my Top 10 Romance Movies list. If you missed the first part of the list where I explain my ranking, click here to check out part one of the list; otherwise, please enjoy the post!

Romantic Drama: (500) Days of Summer

Bordering on romantic comedy, (500) Days of Summer ultimately places itself as one of the few romantic drama films to actually be good. 

Plot: 7.8/10- Taking place from the perspective of male character, which is unusual for the genre, (500) Days of Summer manages to set itself far enough apart from the rest of the films in the romantic drama genre. Even though most romantic dramas are entirely predictable, the film takes an unexpected direction with the film's conclusion, and it is a nice change of pace compared to the predictability of the other films in the genre.

Characterization: 7.1/10- Tom Hansen, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, is a generally likable character, and his romantic expectations are almost a commentary on how romance is glamorized in fiction. Also, typically this role is played by the female character in the relationship. On the other hand, Summer Finn, played by Zooey Deschanel, has a more negative outlook on romance, which contrasts Hansen's view. My problem with the characters is that I never cared much for either of them, and while elements of commentary are interesting, the romance between characters was never all that interesting. 

Overall: 7.7/10- Even though my lack of attachment to the characters detracted from the film, (500) Days of Summer's intriguing commentary on the genre makes it one of the more unique entries in an infamously weak genre.

Honorable Mentions: ?

Romantic Comedy: The Philadelphia Story

The romantic comedy genre is notorious for being well... utterly predictable and completely worthless, unless you enjoy clichéd and sappy love stories, which is fine. However, the older romantic comedies are almost exclusively my favorite in the genre, and The Philadelphia Story is the best of the bunch.

Plot: 7.7/10- The Philadelphia Story is less about the romance itself and more about the relationships between the characters. Like most older films, the characters are not all that complex, but the dialogue is often humorous and witty throughout, which is the main source of entertainment.

Acting: 9.5/10- James Stewart won an Oscar for his performance, and rightfully so, because his performance is superb as always. Cary Gran gives his trademark wit to the role, although his accent sounds more British than Philadelphian, and Katharine Hepburn is great in her breakout role.

Overall: 7.9/10- Thanks to the stellar cast and witty script, The Philadelphia Story is a fun and entertaining classic romantic comedy that holds up rather well.

Honorable Mentions: His Girl Friday,

Animated Romance: The Garden of Words

Chances are, you have ever heard of The Garden of Words, and if so, you need to give this 46 minute film a watch.

Plot: 8.0/10- The Garden of Words follows two character, Takao Akizuki, a hard-working high school student, who hopes to become a shoemaker, and Yukari Yukino, a woman in her mid-twenties. On rainy mornings, Takao skips school to sit in the park, which is where he meets Yukari, who always drinks alcohol and eats chocolate in the park. After several encounters over the course of a few months, more is revealed about Yukari and why she is always in the park. 

Without spoiling anything, even though the plot is simple, it deals with some surprisingly controversial themes in an intelligent and mature way. The romance element is not the most prominent aspect of the film, but it executed in a very mature and realistic way, without ever being overly dramatic. The only notable issue with the plot is that not a lot happens during the early parts of the film, yet the meditative pace was very appealing to me, and it maintained my interest throughout.

Animation: 10/10- Stunning and beautiful cannot even begin to describe how utterly amazing The Garden of Words’ art is! With the exception of Ufotable's Garden of Sinners film series, nothing even compares to the hyperrealistic art style and mind-blowing visuals. Sure, the film mostly takes place in one park, but it is one of the most beautiful works of art I have ever seen. Every few moments, I literally thought: "Wow, how can this look so amazing!" Pictures and gifs can never do it justice, so you have to watch the film for yourself.

Overall: 8.6/10- Beautifully simplistic and bittersweet, The Garden of Words is a mind-blowingly stunning work of art that should be experienced by all.

Honorable Mentions: 5 Centimeters Per Second,

Classic Romance: Casablanca

Having not seen Casablanca in quite some time, providing accurate criticism is a bit difficult. However, from what I remember, I will try to say something constructive, but do remember it being a classic. 

Actor: 9.5/10- My very first experience with a Humphrey Bogart film, it is no denying that he is one the greatest actors of all-time, and his performance in Casablanca is one for the history books. Ingrid Bergman, one of my favorite actresses, gives an exceptional performance as well.

Overall: 8.0/10- With unforgettable quotes like "Here's looking at you kid," Casablanca is an undeniable classic, and anyone interested in film should watch it at some point.

Honorable Mentions: Breakfast at Tiffany's, Roman Holiday, Sabrina,

Romantic Mystery/Thriller: Rear Window

Since the romance in any of the classic thrillers is not a main focus, Rear Window, my favorite film from Alfred Hitchcock, takes the number one spot on the list.

Plot: 10/10- Rear Window shaped my early days of film reviewing by showing me what it means for a film to be suspenseful. From the slowburn buildup to the edge-of-your-seat finale, Hitchcocs demonstrates his mastery of filmmaking throughout Rear Window.

Acting: 9.7/10- James Stewart always gives an exceptional performance, and his work in Rear Window is no exception. Grace Kelly is beautifully superb in her role, and for the era, she is one of the best heroines in cinema, despite her smaller role. 

Overall: 9.7/10- Overall, Rear Window is a masterpiece of cinema, the best work of the era, and an absolute must-watch for anyone that considers themselves a film fan.

Honorable Mentions: Charade, Laura, North by Northwest, Notorious, Vertigo,

Comic Book Romance: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World

Even though many superhero and comic book films have better romance in them, few actually focus on the romance itself more so than Scott Pilgrim vs. the World. 

Plot: 7.9/10- Scott Pilgrim vs. the World's plot plays out much like an old video game with Scott having to defeat Ramona's seven evil exes, which makes the plot somewhat simple, yet that is also the appeal. Plot points follow elements of video games and even anime to a lesser degree. While not as apparent to me as it was for others, there are some metaphors about dating, and it almost makes fun of it to a certain degree.

Special effects: 9.5/10- Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is all about the insane visual style, and Edgar Wright's quick cuts work perfectly, and the use of on screen text and comic book like "Bang" and "Pow" visuals are often humorous and add to the video game/manga aesthetic. 

Overall: 8.3/10- Overall, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is a fun, stylistic, and insanely unique movie with a style all its own. While it has its flaws and does not always hit the mark, it is yet another stellar film by Edgar Wright that is great for those looking for something truly unique. (you can read the full review by clicking here)

Honorable Mentions: ?,

Sci-Fi Romance: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Even though there are better romances in the sci-fi genre, like Han and Leia in The Empire Strikes Back, no other sci-fi film focuses on relationships and romance more so than Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. 

Plot: 8.3/10- In terms of concept, Eternal Sunshine probably has the strongest and most unique concept of any film in the romance genre. 

The best aspect of the film is easily the different direction it takes than most other films in the genre. However, the science fiction element that is introduced is not explained at all, and while that is not a big problem, the movie definitely had the clichéd indie feel when it comes to glossing over the details. Also, the movie's pacing could have been better. It dragged a bit with some side plots taking too much time. Despite having a very unique concept, some elements of the movie still fell into romance movie clichés with some overly sappy moments. 

Characterization: 6.1/10- Even though the main character is fairly developed, you never care all that much for Joel, or his romantic interest, Clementine. All you really know about Clementine is that she is the exact opposite of the meek and timid protagonist. Her energetic character is appealing at times, but that is it. 

Overall: 7.5/10- Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is an incredibly unique take on the romance genre in concept, yet it still falls into a few of the genre's clichés. Despite these flaws, it is one of the better films the genre, thanks the concept and strong performances. (you can read the full review by clicking here)

Honorable Mentions: The Girl Who Leapt Through Time,

Overrated Romance: Titanic

As a bonus, let's talk about the most overrated romance film ever made, Titanic. Of course, this is my opinion, and if you like the film, that's fine (my mom likes it), but James Cameron stopped making quality movies when he made Titanic. It is just a giant cash cow with poorly developed characters, corny dialogue, and too many useless scenes. If Titanic won Best Picture for essentially making a ton of money, why wasn't Transformers won already!? (okay, that might an exaggeration). 

Dishonorable Mentions: Annie Hall,

What are your favorite romance movies? What do you think of my new list format? Please comment below and let me know.

Other Romance Posts:
Top 10 Romance Movies: Part 1
Top 5 Romance Anime

If you want to contact us or have any questions please send an e-mail to johnstarslayer@gmail.com.

Top 5 Romance Anime

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone, and to celebrate let’s rank the Top 5 Best Romance Anime! After watching the classic romance anime, Clannad, my perspective of romance anime and romantic fiction completely changed. Before, I had no real interest in the genre, and Clannad showed me how the genre is able to craft brilliantly written and relatable characters and stories. Unlike Hollywood's attempts at romance, which you can read my thoughts in yesterday's post by clicking here, anime's take on the genre focuses more on the characters as individuals with a smaller focus on the relationship itself, but rather the characters and their flaws. There is little "love at first sight" crap, and even if there is, the characters don't just "hookup" after their first meeting. Of course, the genre does feature some of the most frustrating clichés in anime: the "almost kiss/confession" that is broken up by a random distraction. Honestly, I want to hit things when that happens sometimes, and just yesterday I kind of did hit something, but at the same time, my frustration is also a testament to much effective certain anime can be. Also, there is always the lack of conclusion that is becoming all the more common in recent anime. However, when executed well, anime does romance like no other fictional medium, and these five anime are among the best in the genre. 

To qualify for the list, the anime must be a true romance series, which means anime like Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun, Monogatari, and any number of other anime that feature romance, yet is not as the focus, will not be included.

5: Golden Time

Choosing between Golden Time and Toradora for the number four and five spots was incredibly difficult, and while Golden Time is the anime that is more relatable and impactful for me, Toradora is executed with fewer flaws.

Since I reviewed the series earlier this week, you can just click here to read why you should watch it.

Overall: 9.0/10- Relatable and realistic characters, great comedic timing, and compelling drama/romance, all adds up to Golden Time being a superb example of the romance genre. However, there a few noteworthy flaws, and if you do not relate to the characters, some viewers could see the series as melodramatic.

4: Toradora

After Clannad, Toradora is the high school romcom that every anime fan has at least heard of, and it remains a classic to this day. The series follows Ryūji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka, who each have a crush on each other's best friend, so they decide to help each other, which turns into a surprisingly emotional roller coaster ride with many dramatic twists and turns.

Characterization: 9.5/10- Since Taiga and Ryūji do not like each other that much at first, their relationship is very complex and entertaining to watch unfold, and while Ryūji is a great character, Taiga is the standout of the series.

Taiga Aisaka is the ultimate tsundere; there is no other that can match her tsundere-ness and that is exactly what makes her great. Unlike a lot of current tsunderes, Taiga has the perfect ratio of violent outbursts (tsun) to softer loving moments (dere). Her tsundere-ness is used perfectly as to never become annoying but rather to develop the character, while most modern tsunderes are only there to just beat the crap out of the main protagonist. 

As for the other characters, all of the tropes and archetypes are brilliantly flipped on their head, so as to make you think one thing at first, while actually going in a very smart direction.

Animation: 8.0/10- J.C.Staff's animation is pleasantly consistent for the majority of the series. However, when a scene calls for it, the animation is given a major improvement to look amazing.

Humor: 8.9/10- Of all the anime on this list, Toradora is the funniest. It is not approaching Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun levels of hilarity, but it can be utterly hysterical at times.

Overall: 9.0/10- Filled with plenty of emotion and humor, Toradora is an all around expertly crafted romantic comedy that provides the end all be all of tsundere characters in anime. After Clannad, watch Toradora for a less depressing, yet still emotional, experience.

(A full review coming at some point.)

3: Ef: A Tale of Memories

One of the earlier works from the illustrious studio Shaft, Ef: A Tale of Memories is a romantic psychological mind-bender that revolves around two parallel romantic stories. What sets the series apart from other romance anime is how it portrays the inner struggle and emotions of the characters through symbiotic visuals and poetic dialogue.

Characterization: 9.7/10- The characters in Ef: A Tale of Memories are developed in brilliantly poetic ways. Nothing about the characters is straightforward, and since delving into each one would be massive spoilers, I will discuss the characters in broad terms. With the parallel romantic stories, one focuses on a love-triangle, and unlike most love-triangles, this one is executed superbly. While one of the characters really stands out in a compelling way, the other two are still well developed and interesting in their own way. 

The other storyline centers around a girl with a certain disability, and it is arguably the best, but just barely, of the two stories. The story uses a lot of metaphors to convey the feelings of the characters, and it requires thought to understand them.

Also, the series is very mature in its themes and content, with certain mature things that you rarely see in romance anime, which is refreshing.

Animation: 9.0/10- Being about eight years old, studio Shaft's animation shows its age in the character designs at times. However, the series truly shines in how it uses the visuals to convey the feelings and inner conflict of the characters through metaphors and symbolism. Also, Shaft's trademark stylist editing is still present, albeit much less than anime their later work like Monogatari.

Overall: 9.3/10- Ef: A Tale of Memories is beautifully poetic and often tragic, and while the metaphorical and thought-provoking storytelling might not be everyone's personal taste, it is a refreshing change of pace from a straightforward romantic story.

2: Spice and Wolf

Whether or not Spice and Wolf is a romance anime is possibly debatable, but it makes my list because it stars one of my favorites couples in anime, Holo and Lawrence.

Plot: 9.4/10- The series follows Holo and Lawrence on their journey to take Holo, a wolf harvest deity, back to her homeland, and along their journey, Lawrence tries to make a living as a merchant (for a detailed plot summary, check out my review of the first season here). In a medieval fantasy setting, Spice and Wolf is a lot about the economics of the world, and while that may bore some, it is a fascinating topic for an anime. 

Characterization: 10/10- Holo is literally my favorite anime character ever, or at least favorite female character. Everything from her regal demeanor and stubbornness to her love for apples, Holo is both a fun and deep character, who is shown to be very lonely and wanting companionship. Kraft Lawrence is a generally likable character, and his banter and interaction with Holo is one of the most entertaining aspects of the series.

Acting: 10/10- Spice and Wolf's English dub is one of the best ever produced, and even though I generally prefer the Japanese dub, this one is superior in almost every aspect. Brina Palencia and J. Michael Tatum's chemistry is one of the reasons why their characters are so great, and while the Japanese actors are good, they just don't have the same effect, unless you speak Japanese.

Overall: 9.5/10- With its unique storyline and insanely lovable characters, Spice and Wolf is a personal favorite of mine, and while the series did not receive a proper ending as of yet, it is an anime that everyone should watch at some point.

1: Clannad / Clannad: After Story

Could there be any other? Clannad / Clannad: After Story is not just the best romance anime, it is one of the best anime ever made. Clannad completely changed my outlook on the romance and slice-of-life genres in anime, and it showed me how a work of fiction can actually make me feel something, which almost never happened before. Nearly a year after finishing the series, it is still incredibly difficult to truly express why Clannad and After Story are so effective and heart wrenching, but my experience with the series is truly among the best and most profound that I have ever had with a fictional story.

Overall: 9.9/10- Clannad and Clannad: After Story is among the best fictional works ever told. Even though it is a romance, at its heart, it is truly a story about family, and if you have yet to experience it, you are missing out on one of the crowning achievements of not just anime, but fiction in general. 

What are you favorite romance anime? Do you are agree with my picks? Please comment below and let me know! Also, do not forget to check back tomorrow for the final part of my Top 10 Romance Movies list.

Other Romance Posts:
Top 10 Romance Movies: Part 1

If you want to contact us or have any questions please send an e-mail to johnstarslayer@gmail.com.