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

Sub title page content

Sabikui Bisco Anime Review: Rust, Hope & Redemption - Pinned Up Ink

Sabikui Bisco follows Bisco Akaboshi, a wanted Mushroom Guardian, and doctor Milo Nekoyanagi as they journey through a rust-ridden Japan in search of the mythical Sabikui mushroom. Amid chaos and corruption, the two form an unbreakable bond, facing monstrous foes and political tyranny. Combining intense action, vivid animation, and emotional storytelling, this anime captures resilience in decay.

Continue Reading
Magi: The Kingdom of Magic – Anime Review, Plot & Characters Guide - Pinned Up Ink

Delve into Magi: The Kingdom of Magic, an acclaimed anime from A-1 Pictures based on Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic. This shounen adventure features Aladdin, Alibaba, and Morgiana, following their separate journeys in a vibrant world inspired by Arabian Nights. Enjoy epic battles, heartfelt moments, and rich fantasy with stunning animation, memorable music, and detailed character development—perfect for fans of enchanting stories and classic fantasy adventures.

Continue Reading
A Playthrough of a Certain Dude's VRMMO Life: Anime Review and Series Guide - Pinned Up Ink

Taichi Tanaka, a 38-year-old office worker, escapes his mundane life by diving into the VRMMO "One More Free Life Online." Playing as his avatar "Earth," he defies the meta by mastering so-called useless skills like crafting, cooking, and archery. Despite ridicule, his unconventional approach leads to unexpected fame and adventure, as he crafts unique weapons, befriends quirky NPCs, and discovers the joys and frustrations of virtual freedom.

Continue Reading
Solo Leveling Season 2: Jinwoo's Epic Rise - Pinned Up Ink

In Solo Leveling Season 2, Sung Jinwoo, still seen as the weakest hunter, gains game-like powers after a dungeon incident. As he levels up, his abilities attract attention from hunter guilds while a returned hunter warns of a coming catastrophe. Jinwoo strives to become unbeatable to save his mother as he faces increasingly challenging battles, captivating viewers with intense action and stunning visuals.

Continue Reading
Netflix's Devil May Cry: Beautiful Animation Can't Hide Narrative Flaws - Pinned Up Ink

Netflix's Devil May Cry anime adaptation delivers stylish demon-slaying action with Johnny Yong Bosch voicing the charismatic Dante. While the animation shines, especially in episode 6, the series struggles with its narrative focus, shifting away from the games' themes of humanity. Despite capturing Dante's personality and delivering thrilling combat sequences, the show's inconsistent writing and controversial character development divide longtime fans.

Continue Reading
Zenshu Anime Review: MAPPA's Isekai Masterpiece Redefines the Genre - Pinned Up Ink

"Zenshu" follows Hirose Natsuko, an overworked animator who finds herself transported into her favorite anime film. Armed with the ability to bring her animations to life, she attempts to rewrite the tragic ending she once admired. As Natsuko interacts with characters like Luke and Destiny, she rediscovers her passion for art and grapples with the inevitability of fate. This MAPPA original blends isekai elements with a heartfelt exploration of creativity, love, and the power of storytelling.

Continue Reading
The New Gate: Trapped in a Virtual World After Victory - Pinned Up Ink

"The New Gate" is a 12-episode anime series that aired in Spring 2024, based on a light novel by Kazanami Shinogi. It follows Kiritani Shinya, an elite player trapped in a virtual reality game. After defeating the final boss, he finds himself in a new world resembling the game. With his skills intact, Shinya embarks on a journey to escape, encountering Tiera Lucent and seeking to reunite with his former party member, Schnee Raizar.

Continue Reading
Guild Receptionist Slays Monsters to Beat the Clock - Pinned Up Ink

Alina Clover, a weary guild receptionist, secretly battles monsters to clock out on time in I May Be a Guild Receptionist, but I'll Solo Any Boss to Clock Out on Time. Balancing absurd magical bureaucracy with her hidden adventurer skills, Alina’s journey humorously critiques modern work culture. This anime blends action, wit, and poignant reflections on adulthood, making it a relatable yet fantastical tale of survival and self-preservation.

Continue Reading
As a Reincarnated Aristocrat Review: Medieval Fantasy with a Unique Appraisal Twist - Pinned Up Ink

A Japanese office worker reincarnates as Louvent Ars, a noble in a medieval world. Armed only with an "appraisal" skill that reveals people's abilities, Ars prepares his small territory for impending war by recruiting talented individuals regardless of their social status. While the anime offers interesting character development and political themes, it suffers from repetitive storytelling and generic fantasy elements.

Continue Reading