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

Sub title page content

Summer Anime Picks & the Rise of Heartwarming Iyashikei - Pinned Up Ink

As summer heats up, anime fans have plenty to explore—from Rent-a-Girlfriend’s dramatic return to the soothing rise of the iyashikei genre. Discover how series like Frieren and the upcoming Wash It All Away offer peaceful escapes amidst seasonal hype. Whether you’ve been glued to your screen or need a wind-down watch, this article serves as a thoughtful, entertaining roundup of what’s hot—and what’s healing.

Continue Reading
Haven't You Heard? I'm Sakamoto - Anime Review & Analysis - Pinned Up Ink

Based on Sano Nami’s manga, “Sakamoto Desu ga?” flourishes as a gag comedy, taking the invincible protagonist formula to delightful extremes. Studio Deen provides sharp animation and vivid, comedic visuals fitting the outlandish antics. Every clash—be it classroom chaos or dramatic rescues—amplifies Sakamoto’s legend. Yet beneath his polished surface, there’s an underlying message about individuality, acceptance, and the real meaning of cool.

Continue Reading
Crunchyroll Summer 2025 Anime Lineup: The Streaming Shake-Up - Pinned Up Ink

Crunchyroll’s Summer 2025 anime lineup redefines the streaming landscape with 40+ blockbuster returns and bold new debuts. Anchored by Dan Da Dan, Kaiju No. 8, and global-first donghua, this season marks Crunchyroll’s bid for anime dominance. Explore the strategies, headline series, standout premieres, and industry impacts in our in-depth analysis of what promises to be a milestone moment in anime history.

Continue Reading
HIDIVE's Summer 2025 Strategy: Beating Titans with Curation & Dubs - Pinned Up Ink

As anime giants battle for dominance in Summer 2025, HIDIVE offers a curated alternative with a strategy built on quality dubs and niche appeal. Anchored by Call of the Night Season 2 and the “Summer of Dubs” initiative, HIDIVE delivers focused, genre-diverse programming to dub-first fans. Its boutique approach targets viewers who seek thoughtful curation over sheer volume in a saturated streaming market.

Continue Reading
Blue Lock Season 2 Review: Hype vs. Disappointment - Pinned Up Ink

Blue Lock Season 2 follows Yoichi Isagi and the remaining strikers as they battle Japan’s U-20 team for a shot at national glory. While the story delivers high-stakes drama and strong character moments, the season suffers from lackluster animation and inconsistent pacing. Despite a thrilling finale and solid voice acting, this adaptation fails to capture the intensity of the manga, making it a mixed experience for fans.

Continue Reading
Paradox Live The Animation Review: Cyberpunk Rap Battles & Missed Potential - Pinned Up Ink

In a futuristic world where hip-hop reigns, “Paradox Live The Animation” follows four rival rap groups competing in the high-stakes “Paradox Live” event. Using Phantometal, performers transform emotions into dazzling illusions—but at the cost of reliving traumatic memories. While the anime dazzles with cyberpunk flair and musical spectacle, its promising start quickly fades into generic idol tropes and underdeveloped characters.

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
Overtake! Anime Review: F1 Racing Meets Heartfelt Drama - Pinned Up Ink

Overtake! blends the high-speed world of F1 racing with heartfelt character drama. Photographer Madoka Kouya, haunted by his past, finds renewed purpose after meeting passionate rookie driver Haruka Asahina. As Madoka supports Haruka’s journey through the competitive F4 circuit, the anime delivers striking visuals and authentic motorsport details. While racing action sometimes takes a backseat to character bonds, Overtake! offers a fresh, emotional take on the racing genre.

Continue Reading
Odd Taxi: Anime’s Most Unique Mystery You Need to Watch - Pinned Up Ink

Odd Taxi is a genre-bending anime that follows Odokawa, a walrus taxi driver navigating a city full of eccentric animal characters. As he ferries passengers ranging from comedians to criminals, Odokawa becomes entangled in a gripping mystery that blurs the lines between crime thriller and social commentary. With sharp writing, memorable music, and unique animation, Odd Taxi stands out as one of the decade’s most original series.

Continue Reading