The Cel Block: Anime Reviews & Analysis for the Gen-X Fan

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Bucchigiri?! Review: When Great Animation Can't Save an Anime - Pinned Up Ink

"Bucchigiri?!" is a 12-episode anime set in Ichizu High School, where rival gangs clash amidst supernatural chaos. Arajin Tomoshibi, a transfer student, seeks love but gets entangled with gang leaders, his childhood friend, and an ancient genie. Despite vibrant animation and fun action scenes, the protagonist's lack of depth and repetitive plot hinder its potential. While visually impressive, the series struggles with character development and storytelling.

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The Elusive Samurai: When Running Away Becomes a Path to Victory - Pinned Up Ink

In medieval Japan, eight-year-old Tokiyuki Houjou's peaceful life shatters when a coup destroys his noble clan. Rather than excelling in traditional samurai arts, Tokiyuki masters the art of evasion. Guided by the mysterious priest Yorishige Suwa, he must use his unique talent for running away to survive, gather allies, and eventually reclaim his birthright. His unconventional journey proves that even unusual skills can forge a hero.

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Sand Land Anime Review: Toriyama's Hidden Gem Brings Desert Adventure to Life - Pinned Up Ink

In a post-apocalyptic desert world where water is controlled by a greedy king, Sheriff Rao seeks help from demons to find a legendary lake. Joining forces with Beelzebub, the Demon King's son, and his assistant Thief, they embark on a perilous journey across the wasteland. Facing dragons and the king's army, this unlikely trio must overcome prejudice and work together to save their dying world.

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Isekai Suicide Squad (2024): Harley Quinn's Fantasy Adventure - Pinned Up Ink
In Isekai Suicide Squad, Amanda Waller sends Harley Quinn, Deadshot, Peacemaker, Clayface, and King Shark through a portal to a fantasy world after losing contact with the first squad. Following a helicopter crash, they find themselves amid a war between humans and orcs. Bound by magic shackles and explosive neck implants, the squad must navigate this new realm while racing against time to return home.
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Kill la Kill: The Perfect Balance of Chaos and Meaning - Pinned Up Ink
Kill la Kill follows Ryuko Matoi's quest for revenge at Honnouji Academy, where powerful uniforms grant supernatural abilities. As she confronts the authoritarian student council president Satsuki Kiryuin, Ryuko discovers her own living uniform, Senketsu. What begins as a simple revenge tale evolves into an exploration of power, identity, and conformity, wrapped in Studio Trigger's signature over-the-top action and meaningful character development.
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AMAIM Warrior at the Borderline S1 | How not to Approach the Mecha Genre - Pinned Up Ink

AMAIM Warrior at the Borderline stumbles in its attempt to honor mecha anime traditions. Despite Sunrise Beyond's pedigree, this 2021 series fails to capture the essence of its predecessors. While offering decent action sequences and animation, the show suffers from bland protagonists, misplaced chibi AI characters, and derivative storytelling. Set in a divided future Japan, it stands as a cautionary tale of how not to approach the mecha genre.

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A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero: 2024 Review | The Temu Solo Leveling - Pinned Up Ink

A critical examination of "A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero," a failed attempt to capitalize on Solo Leveling's success. This anime follows Kaito Takagi, who gains the power to summon Lolis after defeating 100 slimes. Despite its dungeon exploration premise, the series suffers from poor execution, forgettable characters, and subpar animation. A disappointing entry in the genre that serves as a cautionary tale for rushed productions riding popular trends.

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Ishura Anime Review: A Rushed Battle for the Demon's Throne - Pinned Up Ink
Ishura, a 12-episode anime series from Winter 2024, plunges viewers into a post-Demon King world where power-hungry contenders battle for supremacy. While featuring unique character dynamics and intense action sequences, the series struggles with pacing issues and abbreviated fight scenes. Despite its potential appeal to fans of battle royales, the show's rushed narrative and overwhelming character roster limit its overall impact.
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The Witch and the Beast (2024): A Dark Fantasy Anime Review - Pinned Up Ink

"The Witch and the Beast" follows Guideau, a cursed woman seeking revenge, and Ashaf, a mysterious mage, as they investigate magical cases for the Order of Magical Resonance. While featuring strong world-building and engaging side stories, this 2024 anime adaptation struggles with main plot progression and character development. Despite impressive European-inspired art and solid voice acting, the series primarily serves as groundwork for a potential second season.

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