Shoushimin Series

What a fantastic show, though its slow pace and subtle character work mean it won't be for everyone.

Of most interest are the two leads who are both rather unique. Alongside some social weaknesses, they each have some traits typically considered as strengths, most particularly Kobato's problem solving skills and Osanai's drive for justice. However they're both rattled by how much they've taken these traits to the extreme and now view them as negative parts of themselves. Determined to become "ordinary" instead, the two put up layers of masks, though of course trying to change something so fundamental about yourself can only be so effective.

This setup ... gives us two main characters who are actually quite hard to pin down. Distinguishing the true person from the mask isn't that simple, and finding out more about their motivations becomes the true mystery of the show beneath the day-to-day mysteries they're encountering. Both characters are simultaneously endearing and a little unsettling to be with, so the anticipation of not knowing what could lie deeper through their layers gives the show a consistent intense undercurrent, even though on the surface so much of it is idle slice of life.

The visuals are also great. The animation is consistently cinematic and moody in a way that enhances the storytelling. The detailed depiction of the real-world Gifu City really brings things to life, as well as the naturalistic pacing of the editing and dialogue. I especially like the scenery swaps in the more intense scenes, where a simple conversation can momentarily shift locations to represent the impact and hyperfocus of the moment.

Definitely give this a shot if you like careful writing and good character drama, and can handle the slow pace.

Spiritual successor to Hyouka. TLDR; if u liked Hyouka, you'd like this. Penned by the same author, similar vibes all around.

For those who have not seen Hyouka, this show is in a perpetual state of slow burn. Even the climaxes feel subdued(in a good way?) because it is simply not in the nature of the work to have high running emotions. If this is not your cup of tea, totally valid. but for those who like mystery, this has the potential to be a sleeper hit. No corners are cut in terms of quality. Animation is beautiful and holds up in every frame.

Damn what a truly boring show. Start to finish, every episode never failed to work wonders to put me to sleep.

Both main characters have to be the most dull and uninteresting characters I've seen in a while. Also the show does the worst thing possible; it's just plain boring. The first half is just "who ate the pastry?", "how can I eat the cake?", "how did hot chocolate get made?". The second half isn't any better, with a lame story with the bullies.

A supposed 'mystery' series with no mystery. Everything is plainly told to the viewer in the most monotone way possible, with little to ... no foreshadowing or build up for each problem.

Only positive is that the way the solutions are shown with mc there when they happened was alright otherwise this was a struggle to finish.

Feels like a poor mans Hyouka rip off, minus any enjoyable characters.

4/10 save yourself.