Even though the last few episodes (the 7 last) did not followed the manga closely, I still think it was not too bad as others had said, after all. Just like most fans, I wasn’t really happy about the change of plot initially. But looking at the pace the manga is moving, they ought to end it somewhere.

I rejoiced at the sight that Jeane was still alive and was disappointed to see her died, although it’s exactly the way as the manga depicted. However, if she don’t then that would mean there is an extra character if they ever going to have second season.

I was a little dissatisfied that Priscilla didn’t died under Clare’s sword. So, Clare’s sole motive being a Claymore was to kill Priscilla and now she had decided not to. What is she going to do next? Just live normally as a human among human? Since she is not going back to the organisation that would be going against them. Is she going to fight them?

Besides that, it’s utterly sad that most part had been omitted, the one that I was pretty looked forward to, Flora vs. Clare.

Basically, the last episode ended with alot of lose ends which gives us the idea that there could possibly be a continuation. But looking at how it deviates from the original plot, if there is a sequel, I wonder how are they going to relate back to the manga. Unless they early meeting with Priscilla was just a filler and they are going to put in more fillers in the sequel until it stick back to the manga.

Despite the manga being a spoiler, I am still going to follow the manga. The extra scenes had been pretty entertaining but I sure do hope that Yagi-sensei would move on with the story.

Overall, Claymore is an enjoyable shounen anime. It is very rare to see that much of masculine fight by women in shounen genre. The graphic was pretty good although some scenes just didn’t look impressive. I gotta say the opening scene of the very first episode was beautiful! The choice of OP/ED was quite suitable though it took me quite some time to develop some liking towards the ED.

That pretty much sums up for the final episode and the whole series. I had more to say but.. somehow I kinda have a block right now and I can’t recall much about either the manga and the anime (previous episodes). For those who need more dose of Claymore, I would say, read the the manga!

-gaiden

Despite the high piles of anime consuming my external HDD space need attention, these few titles caught my attention after reading a few blogs’ entry on it, particularly hashime.

Basically, I would love to run through all the anime titles because yuu never know until yuu try it. However, it is impossible. Not to mention summer, even the spring season anime or the last year’s one are still pending. *Z0MG*

Anyway, with reference to hashime’s entry, here’s a few titles I would love to watch:

Mokke

Ever since Ghost Hunt, I had been going after any anime that is spiritual-related eg. ~ayakashi~ Japanese Classic Horror, TMGK, Shounen Onmyouji. Therefore I’m not going to let go of this one. Plus, this is a Madhouse production and I pretty fancy Kawasumi Ayako (Saber in FSN, Nodame in Nodame Cantabile, Rurippe in Gatekeepers).

Mobile Suit Gundam 00

New Gundam Series with lots of bishies. Reminds me alot of Gundam Wing. I love bishies, thus I don’t see a reason why I’m not watching this.

Clannad

I wanna watch anything produced by Visual Art’s/Key. This time, KyoAni takes part in the production as well. I just love music by Key particularly those from AIR - because I haven’t finish watch Kanon yet. ^^;;

You’re Under Arrest!: Full Throttle

This really makes me feel nostalgic! The second season (I didn’t get to watch first season though) aired on AXN many years back was one of my favourite. Seriously, I thought that was the last and never had expect a third installment. Gonna watch it to find out what’s more with Miyuki and Natsumi.

For the time being, this 4 series would suffice. I would pick up a few more titles as the series started airing and the chances of me watching more is subjected to time, HDD space and fansubs availability.

-gaiden

Image source: Wikipedia.

I just have to write about this coming soon movie (not the live action) right after reading about it at Memento and watching the trailer at Youtube despite the packed schedule. Yes, I know I am very out-dated but seriously, I haven’t been updating myself much with these news and info.

The first movie of the Rebuild of Evangelion tetralogy releasing on 1st of September 2007 in Japan is EVANGELION:1.0 YOU ARE (NOT) ALONE. Upon watching the trailer here, I actually didn’t see much difference from the series. Of course the graphic is more advanced with the usage of 3D and the artwork looked more refined.

Most of the scenes looked exactly the same as the series to me and I seriously couldn’t tell if there’s any difference because the last time I watched the series was like about 9 to 10 years back? Then, I read somewhere that the first movie comprises of the first few episodes of the series. Only then I realized that Kaworu was in the trailer. If the first episode is somewhat the introduction of the series, Kaworu was brought in very early here. Which means, the plot could be different from the original.

Besides that, I guess the design of the EVAs and Angels would be slightly different. I am not too sure about the EVAs but on Wikipedia, a picture of EVA01 from the trailer was put up and described as the new look. As for the Angels, according to Memento here (scroll down to the comments), the design of the 4th Angel, Shamshel is different.

I don’t see any sign of Asuka therefore I am expecting her to appear only in the second movie which (according to Wikipedia) will be released next year.

The cast consists of the original seiyuus that voiced the characters in the original series.

The theme song is Beautiful World by Utada Hikaru and the remix of Fly Me to the Moon. I didn’t really like it when I initially heard the new remix when it was first released. However, I had gotten used to it by now and kinda like the jazzy tune but… I still prefer the original version by Hayashibara Megumi! ^^;;

I wanted to include the trailer here but the coding for the embeded object doesn’t seems to work. Anyway, go watch the first trailer on Youtube and the third on Memento.

- gaiden

*I feel like killing myself to write this entry all over again. What is wrong with wordpress!?!? I am to blame as well for not saving it first. T^T*

It is impossible to write back the exactly same one as I had written earlier. Rather, I am quite unmotivated right now since the whole thing is gone! *sobs*

Basically, this album is like a collection of the EDs for both the first and second season of the series; a few character image songs from the Character Drama albums; and a few other tracks that I have no idea whether it was newly composed to fit in this album or it’s from other Rozen Maiden’s albums.

What I really like about this album is the voice of Shimotsuki Haruka which sounds sweet and serene to me. The heavy usage of string instruments and choir singing gives me the cozy ambience. Yuu know, the one that makes yuu really wanna laze around either on the bed or comfy couch on a rainy day with a cup of hot chocs and a book.

Here’s the list of the tracks.

01. Utsusemi no Kage (Rozen Maiden: Ouvertüre ED)
02. Kanata Kara no Chinkonka (Suigintou’s image song)
03. Pizzicato Hiyori (Kanaria’s image song)
04. Midori no Yubi (Suiseiseki’s image song)
05. Hachimitsu
06. Toumei Shelter (Rozen Maiden ED)
07. Chikakute Tooi Yume (Hinaichigo’s image song)
08. Monochrome Sekai
09. Utsutsu Yume
10. Leer Lied
11. Eden
12. Hikari no Rasenritsu (Rozen Maiden: Träumend ED)

-gaiden

I’m sorry for the lack of updates from me and my partner, Shin have to keep this place alive on his own.

I will update but not really often and slow because I hardly had time to watch any anime.

Besides that, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Shin for bearing with me. Arigatou gozaimashita.

Thanks to all of yuu who visited here!

-gaiden

Initially I wanted to write a summary of the entire series instead of going through it by episodes because I’d reckon that lots of them had already finished this series. I changed my mind later because I want to focus a little on the music performed in the series.

Reading from the title, those who had musical background could have guessed that it’s related to (classical) music.

This series is adapted from the manga with the same title, by Ninomiya Tomoko. Before the airing of this (anime) series, I had read about this manga gaining popularity in Japan and receiving awards as well. I was highly interested with a little doubt on how it would be as I was pretty unconvinced on how did Tomoko-san managed to display the ambience and characters of the mentioned pieces in the manga.

However, I did not read the manga; not even watching the dorama adapted from it as well. I only picked up the series when Shin was telling how good it is, even for someone who do not has any musical knowledge. Taking his words, I watched the first episode and boy, I was hooked!

Ore-sama Chiaki-sama.

As usual, the first few episodes will introduce the characters bit by bit. It might be a little boring for those who find it hard to appreciate classical music but with the comedian scenes (mostly Nodame’s unique reaction) injected into it makes the series alot livelier.

Nodame-chan ~

There were two pieces played in this first episode which are Mozart’s Sonata in D Major for two pianos; and Beethoven’s Pathetique. Both pieces were not alien to me as I had heard the former in Ouran High School Host Club (where Shiro played with the girl he likes - episode 6) while the latter was often played at the beginning of almost each episodes in Love Revolution dorama. I was even slightly trembling upon hearind the familiar tunes. There are other pieces used as background music but I can’t recognize any of them thus I do not know the pieces. If yuu want to find it out, yuu can check it out at wikipedia. I will only mention pieces that are played by the characters most of the time.

Playing Mozart’s sonata.

Another factor that made me really love this anime is the CG quality. It was impressive! It actually demonstrate all the accurate notes played on the keys, if yuu get what I mean. If yuu don’t, best is watch the series yurself. X3

Wonderful CG.

-gaiden

Yes, yuu read it right. Dante from Devil May Cry.

As most of yuu should know, this series is based off the Playstation 2 game with the same title. I’m not sure whether this is a direct adaptation to the plot or a sequel or prequel as I didn’t get to proceed far in the game (I’m lousy in action + adventure game that requires fast reflex) but the characters do.

What attracted me to watch this is simply because it’s based on the game. Other supporting reason would be Dante. *lol* Nah, I would say it’s because it’s action genre and a production of Madhouse. Having watched Black Lagoon and Death Note prior to this, I expected the same (or better) quality and outcome from this series. The graphic and artwork did not score below my expectation. Too bad, my pc couldn’t support the HQ version thus I couldn’t enjoy the maximum quality.

Dante sure knows what’s coming.

Too much blood for a demon, no?

“Pretty good, Mr. ‘Royal Straight Flush’. “

He’s quick back to offense after rebound.

Reminds me alot of Revy (Black Lagoon) with her double cutlass.

Strawberry sundae is a must at any shops!

The choreographing (not sure if this is the right word to use; perhaps directing sounds better?) of the opening made my adrenaline pumped a little. Just like any other action series, it often show-off that the protagonist’s is the one in control.

The outcome is always predictable - where Dante will be the one standing in the end (that’s how it is so far until where I watched, ep. 2).

Basically the show has lots of gunnings (shooting scenes), slashing and blood. However, it’s nothing close to gore like Elfen Lied thus yuu don’t have to worry about feeling nausea even before yuu reached the ending. But then again, it depends on individual on how much one could tolerate.

Those who played the game should know how she is related to Dante, no?

Bring it on!

Patty was awakened.

Tell me or yuu’ll die.

The soprano.

Basically, DMC moves a little fast in pace for me to absorb all the information before moving on the the next scene. A few times, I was pretty confused at certain parts that I have to rewind a back a little and re-watch that part again to understand.

More shots of Dante. X3

Yes, under 18 not allowed.

This scene really makes me melt. Aa~

Dante’s long sword (I can’t remember what it’s called).

Wild sex~xy look~

Have some strawberry sundae for the weekend!

-gaiden

Yes, I know I had only posted one entry so far. ^^;; Therefore, this is my very first attempt on writing an entry for anime. It’s going to be really hard for me. T~T Hope yuu don’t mind if it’s banal.

Episode 16 starts with Clare arriving at the mountains of Zakol. While checking around the place and the many rods around her that emit those faint yoki, she was attacked unaware by four small-fry yoma.

Of course, as usual she slashed three of them off without breaking much sweat.

The remained one tried to escape upon realizing that Clare is superior against him. However, he only ended up got crushed to death by Duff. Duff couldn’t move much except for waist to top as the cave was pretty narrow. Clare’s first attempt to slash his face didn’t work as Duff has armour-like tough skin. She attempted again with multi-slash trying to break through the “armour”. Duff then caught her sword with his eyelid! He then accidentally released the sword and Clare dashed forward to grab hold of it. Clare then unleashed the quick sword.

We get to see and hear more of Riful in this episode. The scene move back to the bottom of the ruin-like cave. Riful was judging the situation between Duff and Clare with her yoki detection. A short conversation exchanged between Jeane and her.

It is quite sad to see Claymores being dismissed of their being as a human when they claimed themselves as so. Even though they are half-yoma and half-human, they were originally human and they had been fighting on the side of the human. However, in the perspective of normal human, they are seen as monster and often they would choose not to meet any Claymores if possible even though they are protected by them.

The scene goes back to Clare and Duff. Duff managed to hit Clare with his rods and crushed her bones. Just when he was about to strip her, Galatea appeared.

I had been waiting very long for her appearance. I like how cool she displayed herself when she walked away from the shadow manly (yes, I know majority of the Claymores had been really cold and manly too).

I like how the effect used in the anime when Galatea aligned her yoki with Duff to control his action. I also like the scene where she walked off calmly and slowly, carrying Clare in her arms while Duff tried to hit her with rods consecutively. Of course, none of them hit her. Duff then hit some rocks on top to closed the opening to prevent them from leaving. Galatea’s attitude amused me a little when she sarcastically commented that Duff’s brain appeared to be functioning. LOL.

Bravo! Galatea found Duff’s weak point and attacked.

Clare is amazed with Galatea’s ability and acknowledged her strength and rank as single digit.

Galatea in a pinch after Duff was given hint by Riful on how to hit effectively.

Galatea received the first blow of the rod.

I get very excited to see Clare going over the limit even though her turning back is predictably. I am always expecting what sort of skills will be unleased upon going over the limit and also the reaction of those who doesn’t know about being able to return to normal after surpassing the limit.

The three Abyssal Ones from North, West and South. It would be awesome to see the three of them fighting each other at the same time. Sadly, that scene is not going to realize.

Omg, Priscilla!

Kiss the ground Clare if yuu don’t behave nicely!

I like to see them releasing their yoki to increase their strength and speed even though their appearance turned into a little beastily.

I should feel very anxious watching the part where Jeane is fighting to hold back from releasing her yoki. However, reading the manga in advance really spoils all the fun. But luckily that does not kill all the suspense. I can still feel it gripping me a little at the end of the episode even though knowing what will happen next. Perhaps it is because I am just thirsting for more.

Clare arriving at the bottom of the “chamber” and is shocked with what she seen.

As yuu can notice, I kinda stop elaborating with the plot of the episode. Hahah. I guess that approach is really dry. I will try another way of writing next entry.

- gaiden