Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? 01: I Recognise That Bulge

Posted by Shin

When an anime pays homage to one of the best distance games in existence, I knew right away that I would be in for one hell of a ride. For the lack of a better description, Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? is a drop dead hilarious attempt at slapstick comedy, coupled with some outrageous death scenes à la Dokuro-chan. Instead of employing bullshit deus ex machina like resurrection to bring the protagonist back for more punishment, the show exerts realism by keeping him dead the whole time, which, as you would have guessed, is the premise of the show. It works well of course, since despite the title, this show has little to do with actual zombies other than having the main character become a meat sponge for the violent gags. Call me asinine for finding it funny when a person dies or gets hurt in the most ridiculous fashion, but it is certainly a nice change from all the umpteenth comedy anime that exclusively use tired tsukkomi and boke routines and/or otaku references that only weeaboos would enjoy.

While I also can't shake off the feeling that this is a cleverly disguised harem anime, the two girls that have graced the screen so far are unique and interesting enough in terms of their back story and designs, which I consider as a fresh take on tried and tested archetypes. Imagine playing a Western RPG with a built-in character randomiser, where the silent Necromancer from the netherworld and chainsaw wielding Magical Girl from god knows where were byproducts of someone mashing the GENERATE CHARACTER button until he or she finding something to their liking. A Vampire Ninja? With big breasts? Shut up and take my money!

Furthermore, the timing of this show's release couldn't have been more appropriate. I would even go as far to say that I have been preordained to enjoy Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?, not merely because it has been one of the most entertaining first episode of this season's offerings. Little coincidence that, much like my other potential favourite of the season, Magica Madoka, it contains magical girl elements to a certain degree as well.

One highlights the methodical process of makeup application, while the other has a spot-on graphical representation of a crossdressing man, and I mean that in the least complimentary way possible. Yes, cushioned beneath that rather fetching pink striped panties are the testicles of a male teenager at the height of puberty. I know, I was expecting trap penis too. Alas, as much as I hate to admit it, the obvious masculanity permeating from the protagonist's sweaty balls is reminiscent to my own attempt. Clearly, the combination of the two shows is a sign from the Crossdressing Deities for me to tread where both Ayumu and I could not!

A definite keeper, no doubts about it. Even if this show was to somehow fall flat on its face, I still need references for costume designs! Then again, with the all that money DEEN received for product placement, they have no chance of failing!

P.S If Subaru's adverstisement wins me over too, I will proclaim this mahou shoujo season