UlasanAnime.com – This article delves into the shallow but visually driven aspects of anime, focusing on characters worth watching for in the Autumn 2007 season, rather than the anime series themselves. The author admits to a preference for well-proportioned and appropriately clothed PVC figures, a stance that contrasts with some broader anime fandom trends.
The review highlights Mao Mizusawa from Kimi Kiss Pure Rouge. Her popularity is noted, with a mix of cuteness and subtle maturity contributing to her appeal. The braided twin-tails are specifically mentioned as a characteristic. In the anime, she is portrayed as a drastically transformed returning osananajimi (childhood friend). The series itself is described as a character-driven romance with dramatic plot elements, suggesting further development for Mao.
Liumei Wong (Wang Liumi) from Gundam 00 is presented as a striking character, particularly for her physique and well-designed outfit. The dress is praised for its modern aesthetic, with Kero-chan-Check worthy prints and flower-petal buttons. The low cut down her back is also a notable feature. A figure of this character is already in production. Despite limited screen time so far, it’s anticipated that Wang will play a more significant role, possibly as a pilot.
Mayu Tsukimura from Goushuushosama Ninomiyakun is discussed for her “Apron Dress” look. Described as an earnestly innocent succubus, her behavior is considered a turn-on for high school boys, attributed to hormonal influences. The anime, being a light novel adaptation, is expected to generate more fanart as it progresses.
Michiko Kouzuki from Blue Drop ~ Tenshitachi no Gikyoku embodies the “Good Girl” archetype for the season. Despite her timid nature, she is single-minded in her pursuits. Her portrayal in the anime, including her energetic sprints and open declarations of feelings, is considered a strong point of the show. The voice acting by Yukino Satsuki is also commended, and her short ponytail is noted as a positive attribute, complementing her otherwise plain meganekko build.
Kureha Akabane from Night Wizard the Animation is introduced as the warm childhood friend of the protagonist’s potential love interest. Her consistent miko outfit, even at school and work, earns her the title of a quintessential happy nun archetype. While capable, she is not on the same level as the main characters in battle. Her charming personality and the anime’s blend of Shintoism with modern sci-tech warfare make her stand out.
Tomoyo Sakagami from CLANNAD is compared to the quiet, Mai Kawasumi type. While much has been said about CLANNAD, the focus here is on Tomoyo’s character, described as a “mean bitch” which suits Houko Kuwashima’s acting style. The irony is that while the anime provides ample “Tomoyo service,” her full story might not be explored. The complete narrative for Tomoyo Sakagami is found in Tomoyo After, a potential future watch if the CLANNAD anime is successful.
You might also be interested in : The Legacy of Redemptive Violence in Gundam’s Enduring Saga
Yuuri Kitajima from Dragonaut ~ the Resonance is presented as a character who embraces an infantile nature. Her first appearance involves nudity, which is noted as a cliché harem plot device. The series offers such elements, despite being framed by a cold, end-driven mad scientist. As a Gonzo original, expectations are managed, but Kitajima is considered to have significant appeal, with further development potentially leading to “obscene and gravity defying” scenarios.
Runner-Ups:
Amu Hinamori from Shugo Chara is described as a stereotypical Pre-Cure era magical girl, with a fashion sense that might be hit or miss. She is considered the primary draw for a modern magical girl show, though the author notes that such shows may not succeed if they deviate from their target demographic, which Amu clearly does not.
Tieria Erde from Gundam 00 is highlighted as a male character whose design, by Yun Kouga, revives the modern bishounen aesthetic reminiscent of Saint Seiya. While some may dislike Tieria’s feminine presentation, his hair is praised. Similarly, Sumeragi Ri Noriega, the prophetic captain with “Big Hair” in Gundam 00, is also mentioned as a character to watch, despite her brief appearance in the first episode.
Adilicia Ren Mathers from Rental Magica is compared to characters like Alicia Florence and Layla Hamilton but with a more evil, tease-happy personality and a giant magical fish. Her “hair drills” and domineering presence are noted. Mikako Takahashi’s portrayal of this tsundere-ish character is appreciated. Kana Ueda’s performance as Honami Takase Ambler, who practices Irish witchcraft despite being Japanese, is also mentioned, with her seifuku and broom combination being appealing. Honami’s older sister charm complements Adilicia.
Toa from Dragonaut ~ the Resonance is briefly described with a comparison to Anemone and Eureka, with the addition of “boobs” and “Minorin.”
Mizuki Hibara from Mokke is presented as an energetic child living in the countryside. The premise of Mokke involves her repeated victimization. Nana Mizuki voices the youthful Mizuki, who is expected to spend much time cheering for her older sister, Shizuru Hibara, for saving her. The narrative aims to remind Mizuki that life isn’t entirely bad despite her victimized status by “funky Japanese monsters.”
The author concludes by acknowledging that several characters might have been missed, emphasizing the difficulty of the task.
