UlasanAnime.com – The ongoing discussions surrounding the controversial anime, Aku no Hana, have unfortunately diminished the element of surprise for many viewers. This piece aims to shed light on why, by detailing aspects that might otherwise have been unexpected for both seasoned manga fans and newcomers alike.
Upon viewing the first episode, the impact of the rotoscoping animation style, the distinctive post-rock ending theme, and the fact that it covers less than the initial chapter of the manga would have been far more unsettling if these details were unknown.
Knowing these elements beforehand can somewhat detract from the overall experience, yet the anime’s availability has not been hindered, with discussions already underway mere hours after its release.
The enjoyment derived from Aku no Hana appears to be contingent on two primary factors. Firstly, can the compelling narrative of the manga transcend its rather unconventional, to say the least, visual presentation in the anime adaptation? Secondly, does the viewer appreciate the unique qualities that made Mushishi a compelling watch?
Under Nagahama’s direction, there is a strong indication that viewers are in for a remarkable experience. The rest hinges on finding personal appeal in the series or, conversely, overlooking the lack of immediate connection due to its overwhelming quality. For those familiar with Bakuman, the concept of a manga’s first chapter is well-understood. This episode serves as a potent illustration of the fundamental differences between manga and anime, or how guided versus self-paced consumption significantly alters perception.
If one is to be guided through a narrative, Nagahama’s approach offers a superior experience. It is understandable why this series has generated such significant interest in the manga, and simultaneously, why it might prove to be a substantial deterrent for others.
The reviewer recalls finding Mushishi initially off-putting until adopting the appropriate mindset. The same sentiment is believed to apply to Aku no Hana, perhaps even more acutely.
For context, highly-rated anime on Crunchyroll typically receive a 5-star rating on their premiere day, or at worst, 4.5 stars. Titles that face criticism usually settle around 4 stars. As an anecdote, the reviewer vaguely remembers Vividred Operation’s first episode garnering around 100 more views in a similar timeframe, though it aired on a Sunday.
The casting of Mariya Ise as Nakamura is noted as a potential positive, with hopes that her experience as a voice actress will lead to a strong performance.
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This situation is also one of the rare instances where the reviewer wishes they had the opportunity to read the entire manga prior to watching the anime. A significant reason for this not being feasible is the manga’s length, with nine volumes and ongoing serialization, making it an extensive undertaking unless it’s a universally acclaimed masterpiece.
