Archive for January 2016
Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri
Do you love Fantasy? Action? Captivating music? Well-crafted and diverse characters?
I'll try to keep the review as spoiler-free as possible but if I do post one, it was an accident and I apologise in advance.
If you said "Yes" to any of these questions, this gem of an anime is one that you should DEFINITELY catch. (If you said yes to all, you won't fail to orgasm every episode).
The potential in the concept itself already warrants an 8.
However, potential alone is nothing.Delicate execution and engaging plot propels this to a solid 9, further supported by the intensity of the developments that leave you begging for more.
Despite the Fantasy theme, GATE attempts inject Reality back into the plot as well. The focus of the show is occasionally shifted back from the"Special Region" to Japan, and sequences that occur back in Japan can affect the main plot happening beyond the Gate, adding to the realism of this series.
While there are arguably certain flaws in the plot, they shouldn't stop you from enjoying the show at all.
Art [7/10]
While the art isn't exactly magnificent, it's far from bad.
Just don't expect it to be at Kotonoha no Niwa standard.
Despite the animation (which is fine, really), the characters are really well illustrated (up close) and the vehicles of the JSDF (Eg helicopter, trucks) were well drawn and very detailed.
The only fault in the art is that the backgrounds were not taken care of properly. Eg if a character was in the background of a certain scene, details could be missing from her in general
Sound [10/10]
Both the OP and ED were beautiful.
OSTs are as realistic as they could get: the gunshots, clashing of swords, the helicopters; an experience that shouldn't be missed.
The Seiyuus were amazing too! (Especially rory's one)
Opening Theme
"GATE: Sore wa Akatsuki no you ni (GATE～それは暁のように～)" by Kishida Kyoudan & The Akeboshi Rockets (eps 1-11)
Ending Theme
#1: "Prism Communicate (ぷりずむコミュニケート)" by Rory (Risa Taneda), Tuka (Hisako Kanemoto), Lelei (Nao Touyama) (eps 1-11)
#2: "GATE: Sore wa Akatsuki no you ni (GATE～それは暁のように～)" by Kishida Kyoudan & The Akeboshi Rockets (ep 12)
Characters [9/10]
Often said to be the most attractive aspect of this show: The Characters
The anime's main character Itami Youji,is an Otaku and First Lieutenant that most of us can associate with. He's funny and surprisingly caring, a character whom you will absolutely love. Having an MC that viewers can understand, relate to and empathise with is evidence of a great Anime.
Lelei is a smart 15 year old Sorcerer's apprentice that has taken a particular interest in the Japanese language, often acting as a translator for the Japanese soldiers. Her curiosity and cuteness just makes her a lovable character in the series.
Tuka Luna is a teenage elf (isn't as young as she looks) that lost her family and ends up in the care of the JSDF.
Last and definitely not least, Rory Mercury is a (horny) gothic loli demigod that carries around a giant halberd. Her alluring voice and tantalizing demeanor makes you wish that the one she was teasing was you. Yet, she can be unusually deep at times. (If you know what I mean ;)
Of course, there are many other notable characters that all have their own good points, but for the purpose of the review I won't be mentioning all.(One word: DEMIGOD.)
What constitutes aesthetics? What is true aesthetics? Philosophers can debate for years on the true manifestation of aestheticism. Is it Art? Is it Music? Little do they know that the answer lies in an Anime TV series. A series called GATE. The true embodiment of aesthetics .is in its characterisations.
Overall [9/10]
Yes i had to endure the hardship of waiting for Season 2 which finally is here.Currently on Episode 2
There are so many reasons why I just love this series; the Fate references during the Special Forces mission, the Ride of the Valkyries Helicopter scene;In the Preview Video
TL;DR? Gate presents an unprecedented concept to the fantasy genre. If you enjoy shows like NoGameNoLife, SwordArtOnline, Overlord, or fantasy in general, then this is a show that you will certainly adore. Thank me later :)