Tweekums

Hinako has found it hard to go on in life after the death of her parents in a car crash some years previously. One day as she looks out to sea she is approached by a strange girl named Shiori who warns her to stay away from the water. She also tells her that she is a mermaid; not one like those from fairy tales but a Yokai, monster, who intends to devour Hinako one day! Until that day she will protect her from other yokai. Hinako isn't all that perturbed at this prospect.

This is a rather strange series; beautifully animated but with very downbeat themes. Normally one would expect things to cheer up early on but here the melancholy tone remains and even intensifies as the story progresses. The characters are likeable, even Shiori who manages to be both menacing and sympathetic some how. The designs and animation are good throughout. Overall I'd certainly recommend giving this a go although its downbeat tone means it won't be for everybody.

These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.

This series is centred on Naoto Watari who has been raising his younger sister since the death of their parents. Things are going well until his childhood friend Satsuki returns; she left when they were young children and he never really understood why. Inevitably they grow close again but matters are complicated by Yukari, a girl in his class who has feelings for him.

I thought this was a solid enough romantic comedy anime; I'm a bit surprised that it got twenty six episodes although to be fair I never thought it had outstayed its welcome. The characters are interesting and likeable. It isn't too obvious which of the girls, if either, he will end up with... at least not for a while. Overall I'd say this is a decent watch if you enjoy the genre.

These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.

Akiteru Ooboshi is a high school student ; his closest friend is Ozuma Kohinata. Ozuma's younger sister Iroha often hangs around and enjoys tormenting Akiteru. He hopes to become a video game developer and she wishes to become a voice actress. He quickly realises that she is very talented and soon they are working for his '5th Floor Alliance'. She must keep her involvement secret though as her family disapporve of her goals.

I thought this was a decent enough series; the sort I enjoy while watching but suspect I'll soon forget now its finished... to be honest more than once I forgot key details between episodes. The characters are likeable and have a fun dynamic. It ends nicely enough leaving things open for more although I'd not bet on getting more. Overall I'd say this might not be great but it is worth a watch if you enjoy the genre.

These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.