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CODE GEASS Hangyaku no Lelouch R2
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Animation - 8.9 |
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Sound - 8.7 |
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Story - 8.3 |
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Character - 8.2 |
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Value - 8.3 |
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Enjoyment - 8.9 |
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Average - 8.5 |
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| Average |
8.8 |
| Animation |
10 |
| Sound |
10 |
| Story |
8 |
| Character |
8 |
| Value |
8 |
| Enjoyment |
9 |
| This is a review for both seasons.
I finished both a long time ago so Im not as excited as I was when i just finished it, because the ending is great, just the best ending I have ever seen in an anime (dunno why but almost all endings are crappy)
This is one of my top 5 animes because something is always happening thatmaked you watch and watch the anime, it has something of deathnote like the power of Lelouch to sole problems and you watch him trying all over the series to realize his ambitions in on way or another.
A lot of surprises and turns in the anime that makes it hot all the way till everything expodes in the end, you will then understand everything :O
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1 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
8.7 |
| Animation |
8 |
| Sound |
9 |
| Story |
9 |
| Character |
8 |
| Value |
9 |
| Enjoyment |
9 |
| Just for the record, Geass R2 is currently #2 on Anime News Network. I must say, I'm very happy that animenfo requires people to think a little bit before they can rate an anime...this was very good, but it isn't the second best ever.
What Geass R2 does best is unpredictability. In fact, I think the creators focused so much on unpredictability that they let many other important elements slide--notably, believability and character.
As the viewer, you are somewhat forced to accept that you don't really understand most of the main characters' motivations. If you did, then it would be much harder for characters to make decisions that surprise you. You also tend to feel like the plot line is somewhat obscure and some things don't make sense. If everything was perfectly clear to you, then it's pretty tough to introduce new elements that surprise you. Perhaps a true genius can get consistent characters, believable situations, and still be surprising, but I haven't ever seen it done. Geass R2 managed a reasonable trade-off, especially considering that they were trying to finish it before everyone forgot what happened in S1. Overall, I found myself thoroughly entertained--seeing the new, different things that were happening constantly, trying to understand their implications, and wondering what would happen next. However, I never felt very attached to the characters, and I would always be bothered a bit by plot holes in important moments.
Animation was good--it came from Sunrise, so it would be very surprising if it wasn't good--but it wasn't outstanding. I'm always like it when a camera angle or a bit of cinematography can portray something more than just the plot, but I never found that in Geass. I didn't particularly like how the characters were drawn, either. Look at Lelouch in the picture at the top of this page. Nobody has a waist that thin. There were even a few drawings that looked hastily done,
I don't have that much to say about sound...I liked the background music, I liked the voice acting, I didn't really like the openings or endings. However, nothing particularly unusual.
As for value (I should probably note, I use 'value' as an opportunity to rate an anime's philosophical value), I definitely appreciated the questions this anime raises about the role of government, and how much we should value freedom versus stability. It's definitely a philosophical question that Sunrise pulls of a shelf whenever it wants its animes to seem deep (many of the same themes appear in, for example, Gundam 00). However, it's a question that shouldn't be taken lightly, and I think it's good that we can see the question in many different contexts.
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0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
8.8 |
| Animation |
9 |
| Sound |
7 |
| Story |
9 |
| Character |
9 |
| Value |
9 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| This is a review of R2 only, read my review for season 1 on season 1. This show made quite the stir for me. I thought the first was good, but this one pretty much blew me out of the water. It is stereotypical of me to give this such a high review, but dang! On to the review.
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0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
9.7 |
| Animation |
10 |
| Sound |
9 |
| Story |
10 |
| Character |
9 |
| Value |
10 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| -This review will encompass both R1 and R2 in terms of ratings and information- Code Geass is one of the best anime I have seen in years. Animation which stays lush and vibrant from beginning to end. Catchy OP and ED themes, as well as character voices (both sound good subbed and subbed). To a character list that may be too long for song, yet each character plays a role in the series. Code Geass isn't just for fans of the mecha/sci-fi drama. While there is a hint of romance and some episodes of School-life. Code Geass does is all and it does it well.
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0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
8.0 |
| Animation |
8 |
| Sound |
8 |
| Story |
8 |
| Character |
8 |
| Value |
7 |
| Enjoyment |
9 |
| I purposely waited one week before reviewing Code Geass R2 in order to let the thrill and shock of this series's continuous cliff-hangers and shocking ending subside. This way, I am more able to objectively review Season 2, without the adrenaline rush influencing my opinions.
First and foremost, I remember almost everything related to Season 2's storyline progression. Despite my marathoning it over 3 days, I remember many details quite clearly. Interpreted, this means that Season 2 had a lot of substance that cannot be ignored. Not only was the action blood-pumping, but there was a good backbone for the character interactions/actions to build upon. Note, I say 'good', and not 'great' or 'perfect', because I also clearly remember 2 'wtf' moments that seem like a cop out. 1) Lelouche's meeting with Orange and 2) Lelouche's confrontation with his father. Despite all the good moments, these two really left a sour taste in my mouth.
Why? First of all, the writers can make Lelouche dictate Code Geass almost anyway they like. They already did this when they brought in the Chinese eunachs under control of Lelouche so that his Knights have some sanctuary to flee to. However, for the only two characters that cannot be affected by his Geass, they came up with some pretty poor ways of dealing with them. The writers also kind of half-assed this series when Lelouch started commanding people to 'do everything he orders them to'. The writers make Lelouch do this so that he has his very own slave army... kind of silly if you ask me. Nevertheless, I forgave most of these minor problems, but it could certainly irk you if you did not like the characters in any way.
Overall, I loved the character cast. Previously minor characters such as Lelouche's brother, Rolo, etc now play important roles in the overall big picture. However, as a result of the plot being the main focus of this anime, important characters such as CC, Emperor of Britannia, and 'the mother' really don't get enough development time. Whereas most animes would devote full episodes and more towards the development, Code Geass Season 2 doesn't really do this. Furthermore, previous main characters such as Todo, and many of the Black Knights really were put in the back seat. As a result, I was forced to find new favorites in Kallen, Lelouche, some of the Knights of the Round, etc. Again, I enjoyed watching the varied fate of the different Code Geass characters.
In conclusion, I heavily enjoyed watching Code Geass Season 2 while it lasted. The ending was a shocker, and was surprising (unlike what others claim). Although not the best anime I've watched, I am definitely sad that this franchise is over. Objectively, one might pick at this and that, but for what it tried to convey (the natural consequences of the chaotic world caused by Geass, as in the past - Lelouche's step up into the world of politics and manipulation - the people that are alienated and have to die), I would say it was quite successful. Overall, if Code Geass conveyed anything to me, it is that one is destined to lose all your loved ones in the face of intense ambition and high aspiration.
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2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
7.7 |
| Animation |
8 |
| Sound |
8 |
| Story |
6 |
| Character |
9 |
| Value |
6 |
| Enjoyment |
9 |
| This review is based generally on the entirety of the series rather than R2 only. That being said, the quality of animation and sound is pretty consistent throughout. Although I think they made Lelouche sound a little more "majestic" in the 2nd series. Anways, I don't need to give an overview since the synopsis is there so onto the review!
I thought this was overall, a very good anime. The mech fight scenese were a little ridiculous though. They fight as if humans were fighting. For great, huge hulking mechs to be so agile and quick is funny to me but the fighting was good none the less. I have no complaints in this department. Soundwise, it was very good. I enjoyed the voice acting and thought it went well for each character. Also, FLOW - COLORS, is an awesome song :D.
The story isn't really all that. If anything I'd say you would watch this for the characters. I mean, it was okay but the creators generally tried a little TOO hard to shock the audience. In actual fact, I enjoyed the most predictable parts. Even though you knew it was going to happen, it couldn't have been done better. Basically, the execution and directing did a much better job then the storyboard team.
The most annoying thing about this anime is how thin and apparently tall all the characters are. Even Suzaku and the army are skinny as twigs. Obviously it was applied to the female character so their bust could look bigger but even then it's just annoying. Also, Nina should get shot....I absolutely hated her. Otherwise, really liked their personality, Karen (or Kallen as in the subs) CC and Rolo are probably my favourite characters. The reason I gave character a high rating is because I think for the mostpart, they are all given time to shine. Whether it be giving a monologue, making that last stand or even helping another character, a lot of characters all have a part of the anime where you watch and you will be touched by it. If you empathise, sympathise or feel compassion, the feeling is still there.
Just like Death Note and other similar anime, you can't really re-watch it if you know all the twists and turns. Of course, some special moments exists but I wouldn't really use that to justify buying a boxset (actually I would lolz but realistically I wouldn't). I had a lot of fun watching this anime. There are generally elements for everyone to enjoy, a bit of romance, some action and drama, and even some comedy is thrown in for good measure. You'll laugh, cry and love (and most likely hate) throughout the anime. I would recommend it mainly to people who liked FMA, Death Note or Gundam SEED.
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Animan |
(2008-11-10 09:23:07) 2008-11-10 09:14:15 |
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| Average |
3.5 |
| Animation |
8 |
| Sound |
6 |
| Story |
1 |
| Character |
1 |
| Value |
2 |
| Enjoyment |
3 |
| Right, If you have been a fan of anime since the early 80's please read this review. For fans jumping on board in the 90's and people who think eva, elfen lied, or *shudder* naruto and sc.ry.ed are great anime. Please consult another one of the 9+ reviews.
If you have made it this far then congratulations.
For oldtime anime fans like myself who grew up with 70's classics, 80's modern classics (venus wars, akira, project ako, hakuto no ken, dominion) this anime is a joke.
Code geass is formulaic at best. In fact season 1 of this anime was far better, and i did not think much of that. There is a LOT of hullabaloo but minimal substance. It tries to make you think it is dealing with political themes, involving romance, racism, war and such, but in the end it boils down to a melodramatic, badly conveyed yarn about a kid's hatred against his step-family, whom he does not fit in with.
In season 1, the storyline was left open, and one expects a conclusion to that original storyline in season 2. Thankfully that DOES happen. Unfortunately it takes place barely half way through season 2.
What's left is a very silly, stretched, overexerted storyline which fails to make sense on all fronts. The writers probably struggled to make this anime as unpredictable as possible. What they succeeded was compromising any sensible continuity.
Suzaku is STILL the most useless character in anime. In S1 he had 9 lives, here he seems to have a cheat code for survival. Literally. He changes personality, allegiance, and character almost every episode. Not even in a "im conflicted" way but more in a "my writers are confused. help me" way. Oh and yes, you think he died a 100 times and yet popped up in season 1? Have you got a thing coming in S2 baby.
Now the "lead protagonist", Lelouch. Oh Lelouch *heavy sighs*. Well EVERYTHING this guy started off to do in S1, he appearently forgets by season 2. The whole anti-hero charm is flushed down the toilet as mister "ladouche" flounders trying to find out what he is meant to do for the remaining episodes when the ORIGINAL season 1 storyline becomes all but invalidated halfway through the show.
Theonly normal character, if there is such a thing is Kallen or (Colin in the dub). Unfortunately she is ignored through the entire series.
All the characters from the previous season are there, and more. The sound is the same. The animation is the same, only it has more mecha battles. In fact the animation is the only saving grace of this show.
I will leave the art direction, character designs, colors and pixel by pixel analysis to some other overzealous, overindulged kid, i mean "critic". Again, this is not a bad anime. The potential is there, the only thing is, season 2 is basically 20 episodes too long. However the way japanese tv works, it is sad that they needed to commission a full second season. So they put in every lame "twist" they possibly could.
There are two conclusions. The first for the storyline started in S1, and the second, to the jumbled pile of cowdung this anime becomes 5 episodes into S2.
If you are a fan of the whole "angst for the sake of angst" western fan who discovered anime in the past 10 years. You will lap this up like a hungry puppy.
For more veteran fans, who are hopefully more immune to the hype, go in not expecting much and you will find this anime to be anywhere from ok to decent. Nothing special like the 9+ scores on this website suggest.
Then again, this website is filled with perfect 10 scores and its best to always look at the lower scoring reviews, but i'm sure u know that already. Hope this review was helpful. It is my personal opinion so if anyone is hurt or emotionally damaged by what i have said here. Please remember. Its just a show. Its not persona, and its most certainly not your real life.
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4 of 13 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
9.7 |
| Animation |
10 |
| Sound |
10 |
| Story |
9 |
| Character |
9 |
| Value |
10 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| Overall: this anime is story driven anime. It starts with a high notch, around the middle, lingers a little bit, and rounds up with the emotionally strong ending.
Animation: the animation did not change by a lot from the 1-st season animation style. The variety of colors were used, the light-shadow contrast was used + some of the computer graphics.
Sound: well, I do not have any complaints about the sound as well. I've watched this anime maybe 3 months ago, but I still remember, that it had some of the 'enya - like' music in the ending eps. That music, combined with certain scenes, were really enjoyable.
Story: as I mentioned earlier, this is story based anime, therefore I have a high standards for it. Comparing "Code Geass" vs. "Code Geass 2", "Code Geass 2" had lots of twists and turns that either entertained or angered people. Personally, I liked most of the twists (it stopped "twisting" the plot right about where I started getting tired of them). Unfortunately, these series had much more mecha stuff than the 1st season. Mechas shooting stuff from their wings, and never ending batteries, that did not have the 1-st season (1st season had the limited batery capacites and NO super-mecha stuff), somewhat damaged the rationality of this anime. Overall, enjoyable series. I really liked the emotionally and intellectually designed plot, but I can not forgive for mech stuff....
Character: I liked that Suzaku guy had a bit more depth in character design, that the 1-st season fell short. One more thing that I liked is that depending upon the characters’ previous experiences and their values, they chose their own paths and sides to take. Basically, no annoying point of views such as "we need to do like that because it's the right thing to do and all goody-goody boys and girls should do," but rather "I do this because I believe in what I do or I do that because I have some gain from it." Basically, characters looked realistic. The only complain that I have is that in the middle of the series, some of the characters reacted to certain situations with over-exaggerated body motion and facial expressions. It really aggravated me.
Value: well it was a good series to see. I believe that everyone should check these series as well.
Enjoyment: overall, the series were entertaining: interesting twists, good pace and some really emotional eps.
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0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
7.0 |
| Animation |
8 |
| Sound |
8 |
| Story |
6 |
| Character |
7 |
| Value |
6 |
| Enjoyment |
7 |
| The battle for the Eleven's independence continues in Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R2. R2 begins where the latter series left off, and without delving too much into the series of events leading up to this series commencement, Lelouch weighs the balance of multiple identities and attempts to juggle them in the swirling struggles against Britannia.
I think this series, in technical execution, had so much more potential than what it was able to execute respectively, and often had more elements working against it than for it (hence more cons in its measure than pros). Yet, what a ride it takes you on! There's a plethora of ups and downs this series takes in tonality, and you find yourself so invested in its progression that it's hard not to be drawn into its subsequent events, and for that, it's worth noting beyond standard measures, and I appreciated what it had to offer. Yet, I found it hard to feel as invested as I could have in it's overarching storyline. I don't want to compare R2 too much to S1 in its overall notations, as it is a continuing story, but I will note this: the series has a distinctive focal point that differs from its first season in a larger perspective: it's more event driven than it is character centric. Automatically, that takes on a tonality that differs greatly from the first season, where the characters drove the story more distinctly in the daily interactions and being subsequently caught in the wayward conflicts between Britannia and the struggling Eleven population. The result is something that wavers in its resolve. I greatly enjoyed it in what it presented, but I felt this shift made the investment much less than what the earlier adaptation of the series had to offer.
The cast of R2 composes some of the same characters as the previous season, but notably it's as much of a mixed bag to grab from as the previous season. Some are notably strong in construction (Lelouch of the elder characters; Rolo, whom I thought was one of the more notable characters for his convoluted way of thinking and respective backstory, is most noted of the new among a few), while others (Xing-he) you wish you had a little more time to come into them or they take on even less investment than they did in the first part of the story (i.e. Ohgi and Villeta, I felt invested in their ironic relationship in the first season, whereas here, the events of the story drive so much to its conclusion, not allowing their respective struggles to come forward as much).
In the midst of it all, despite overarching criticisms I had in the technical progression of the series, I couldn't help but find myself invested in what R2 had to offer. There are scenes of tactical brilliance that I loved watching in retrospect in the collective measure of the series, and the ending is so brilliantly executed that it's hard not to feel that this series concluded with such an effective climax, reflecting well on its protagonist and respective conflicts. However, the road getting there is convoluted, and it's difficult to overlook a road that steers in so many directions that it loses its way, only to find itself at a destination that makes sense.
Animation standards hold up quite well for its respective time, and I was very pleased with the soundtrack contributions and very nice VA work in the Japanese spectrum.
There's more to expand upon in each of these elements below, but in collective context, R2 can be enjoyed by those who follow it to enjoy the overall point it chooses to reach, with nice visible moral conflictions, action sequences, moments of tactical genius and twists that take the viewer into its clutches - that's a positive element I give to it and it was the aspect of the series I enjoyed. Yet, I was left wanting much more from it. For those who might find themselves looking between the lines and wanting to feel into the deeper part of this, there are many places where R2 falters, and these are namely in the ways the series chooses to ride its way there.
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1 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
9.5 |
| Animation |
10 |
| Sound |
8 |
| Story |
10 |
| Character |
9 |
| Value |
10 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| With out a doubt, the best Anime, I have ever laid my eyes on!
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0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
9.8 |
| Animation |
9 |
| Sound |
10 |
| Story |
10 |
| Character |
10 |
| Value |
10 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| Great Anime. One of the few shows that surprised with its constant twists and turns. Code Geass actually feels like an epic. So many events take place, that sometimes it's a little difficult to handle, but that in its own regard can be a blessing. The frenetic pacing keeps the story moving, however, my only complaint with the second series is that there were few and far in between where we were able to see how the characters dealt with their struggles. The characters became a backdrop to the action, and for some viewers, that works out great, but it lost some of its depth from the first series, as we saw more of the characters interacting amongst each other.
The characters tend to be somewhat plastic, kinda like the Disney charcters of old where you can interchange one princess for another, but just change the hair color and its length. If you can get over that though, the show presents itself very well after the first few slow episodes.
For an anime, the show takes on a more adult approach, and overall, I think it redeems itself in the last episode. In my estimation, this is how anime should be. The story was more realistic, people were selfish, and sacrifices were made. I enjoyed what Lelouch said at the end. "Only those who are prepared to be fire upon should fire." Only those prepared to die will have the strength of purpose to accomplish their goals however difficult. The concept of self sacrifice is a prevalent theme throughout the series, and it all points towards one last sacrifice at the end.
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2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
7.8 |
| Animation |
8 |
| Sound |
9 |
| Story |
8 |
| Character |
7 |
| Value |
7 |
| Enjoyment |
8 |
| Ah... left with a sinfully painful cliffhanger at season one's end, we finally get to Geass R2. The first season of Geass was, most definitely, one of my favorite shows, and the second season certainly isn't bad at all. But, this is the problem. The second season is good. It's perfectly fine, really. But, it's not exceptional like the first season was, and it starts faltering towards the end.
Animation is fine, and the 720p looks good. The music is better here, which is great, and actually causes me to give R2 a better sound score than S1. The story is good, but goes berserk at the end, dropping the rating. As per characters, the mains are definitely great, but there are quite a few characters and not enough time... plus a contradiction or two. Value is average, because Geass is essentially a plot based show, and it's not as fun the second time through. Enjoyment is good, but not as good as the first series.
(N.B. please check my bio for a guide to my numerical scores, so you're accurately reading the review.)
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1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
5.3 |
| Animation |
6 |
| Sound |
6 |
| Story |
5 |
| Character |
4 |
| Value |
5 |
| Enjoyment |
6 |
| I'm just going to get out of my way and say that season one was definitely better than this. R2 is the continuation of one of 2007-2008's hyped up show. Sadly, all the attention got the best of it and ended up missing its potential.
Code Geass R2 starts off where S1 seemingly left off. Lelouch has returned from normal student life with his brother, Rolo. Lelouch is goes about his typical pastime of playing arrogant nobles in a game of chess when suddenly his forgotten army comes and makes him don the mask of revolution again.
While retaining much of the aesthetics, R2 appears to be a step down from its S1 counterpart and if you're an attentive viewer you'd see why. Apparently, the animation crew has a habit of cutting corners. Stuff like simplified illustrations (People sometimes look like 3rd grade doodles, one makes you wonder if the storyboards ever get a touch up.) and cheap animation that's likely been outsourced. Of course, for budget reasons, but the thing is, it only spans 25 episodes and from Sunrise, no less. Regardless of that, the show kept its vivid and vibrant atmosphere in its setting so it's not all bad. News is that the production had a number of issues, but the top execs still want it done. Oh well, business is business.
Soundtrack is alright. The first OP, O2, didn't leave much of an impression on me so I usually just skip it. Then again, I was never a big fan of Orange Range although Shiawase Neiro, the first ED, had pleasant vocals and it's such a relaxing and even encouraging song to listen to when you feel down. I have to say, the lyrics border on campy which is not everyone's cup of tea. On the other hand, World End, Flow's aptly named song, reminded me of the band's upbeat and energetic roots with their two vocalists and rhythm. It just sounds really cool. I may just be saying this since I like Flow, but yeah, I like their music, heh. On another topic, the insert for R2, if I recall correctly, were different from S1. One song, Boku wa, Tor ni Naru or Sensibility, send shivers down my spine with their nasal-like vocals. I have no complaints for voice acting. The seiyuus of Geass always do a good job. Fukuyuma creates a different character in Lelouch by somehow speaking in a mix of high and low tone of voice instead of the usual effeminate high pitch sounds that are typical of bishounen types like him. I just noticed that.
Then here comes the plot. As said, it picks up from the first season with what was laid out then. As you might already know, Geass is known for its over the top plot devices and melodrama. It's still here, if not, even more so. As the series goes on, it fluctuates between one end to another. To give you a perspective of this, here's an example: a certain subplot is introduced and in a length of one or two episodes it is resolved rather quickly and then it moves on to the next. See, consistency is Geass' worst enemy. It wanders off and leaves something behind unexplained which forces the viewer to have to rely on side materials for more info or closure on said plot. It's like an incomplete narrative and to me, is a big gripe. What R2 stays true is its outlandish and flamboyant contrivance that makes Geass Geass. Clearly, Goro Taniguchi, the director, was aiming into the path of pathos over logos, but it can only go so much which it did. Taniguchi has been renowned for his works on Infinite Ryvius and Planetes. Compared to this, Geass does not exactly measure up. However, it's not to say Code Geass has a bad storyline, it's that it turned into a bloated thing that could not contain itself. It's a miracle how they could even think of continuing the lighthearted episodes in an already overwhelming plot. In the end, it does salvage what is left and ends without leaving a bad taste in your mouth.
And that leads us to the characters. In R2, Taniguchi and his team just overtly introduced too many characters than the series can handle. As a result, almost no time is given for these characters to develop any substantial development which also leads the staff to mismanage the cast. They resorted to cheap measures like poorly executed deaths. Also, chances are, you will never see the word consistency plastered in any of the characters. Some of them have personality changes that appeared suddenly and out of context that just baffles the viewer in the end. It's unlike season 1 where everything is clear cut.
Hmm, if you loved Geass from season 1, prepared to be slightly let down from R2, but if you're just a Geass nut, you probably won't care and see it is just as good. I've no problem with that, everyone has differing opinion. Just like S1, R2 would feature the picture dramas that act as supplements to the main series. Seeing as how there are dangling threads left in the main series, watching the dramas help.
For all its flaws, R2 is more action packed and that kept me from seeing it and couple that with its cliffhangers and illogical fallacies, I just couldn't wait for the next episode. I guess this is Geass' main appeal. It won't win best insightful anime anytime soon, but it's certainly a candidate for most entertaining.
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1 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
8.8 |
| Animation |
10 |
| Sound |
9 |
| Story |
8 |
| Character |
8 |
| Value |
9 |
| Enjoyment |
9 |
| Code Geass: Lelouch of Rebellion R2 is the 25 episode sequel to the highly popular Code Geass: Lelouch of Rebellion, released in 2008. It holds a number of improvements over the previous season, and not just in presentation.
The graphics and animation have greatly improved over the first season. The characters are far more pleasing to look at, and appear much more lifelike than before. There is also extensive use of CG and special effects present, enhancing the action sequences and the improves the enjoyment of the anime greatly. Combined, these factors make Lelouch of Rebellion R2 an highly impressive anime to watch, and ranks among the best visually striking anime released to date.
The audio has improved from the first season. By significantly reducing the number of corny English affirmations present in the anime, the storyline is no longer spoiled by the ridiculously sounding phrases that plagued the first season. The theme songs are also more suitable to the anime, and most of the background music have been carried over from the first season, ensuring their quality and suitability in the respective scenes. All of this combined result in an anime which is excellent to listen to, greatly enhancing the presentation of the anime.
The storyline of Lelouch of Rebellion R2 continues directly from the first season of Lelouch of Rebellion. The storyline has been rather significantly simplified, greatly reducing the initially unanswered actions and surprising twists from the anime. This does make the second season much easier to follow than the first, which is mostly suitable due to the more action mecha oriented nature of the second season. But, there might exist the feeling of disappointment for viewers who enjoyed the more cunning storyline and mind games from the first season. Another area the second season differs from the first season is that it isn't afraid of killing off its key characters. Although this normally gives the anime great opportunity to dramatise, Lelouch of Rebellion fails to take full advantage since this is occasionally done at the most inappropriate moment in the most undramatic way, ruining the premise for the viewer to relate to the character involved. Lelouch of Rebellion R2 does conclude very nicely, with a sudden and unexpected ending reminiscent of the cunning from the first season.
By significantly reducing the English affirmations throughout the anime, the characters in the second season, although carried over identically from the first season, are far more believable than they were in the first season. Given that most characters were underdeveloped in the first season, the fact that there is barely any development present in the second season can be quite disappointing so some viewers. However, the more action oriented storyline means that the lack of development is barely noticeable. Overall, the characters have been greatly advanced in terms of presentation from the first season, improving the enjoyment of the anime.
Code Geass: Lelouch of Rebellion R2 is a remarkable improvement from the first season in terms of presentation. The lack of complexity and the failure to take full advantage of the characters might disappoint some viewers who have enjoyed the first season, but most will no doubt welcome the shift of focus into a more action oriented anime than a psychological drama. Personally, I have thoroughly enjoyed Lelouch of Rebellion R2, and find it quite a shame that a sequel featuring the same lead character would not be a possibility without greatly damaging the credibility of this anime. I would recommend Lelouch of Rebellion R2 to anyone looking for a modern action mecha anime, and of course this is a must watch for anyone who has enjoyed the first season.
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2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
9.7 |
| Animation |
9 |
| Sound |
9 |
| Story |
10 |
| Character |
10 |
| Value |
10 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| Powerful, stunning, brilliant. These are the words that Code Geass left me with after completing its last episode. The primary value of mecha animes lies within the explosions and missiles that occur between battles; something is just so cool about buildings exploding. Most of the time mechas are just exactly that with no other value. Though there are those mechas that are deemed innovative, inspiring, and revolutionary. The name that stands out the most is Neon Genesis Evangelion. Now, Code Geass joins this honour deservingly so. Driven by philosophical and political issues, there are only few animes that have been able to explore these issues while at the same time, have the guise of a mecha anime.
1/3 of the world is controlled by the Great Brittanian Empire. Hungry for more power, they set their sights on the small country of Japan who are rich in a valuable resource known as sakuradite. With the development of the new walking armoured vehicles known as knightmares, Japan was quickly engulfed in flames and colonized with its pride, dignity, and name taken away. It was to be known as Area 11 with all Japanese to be viewed as scum. The rich settlements were populated by Brittanian of noble honour, and those that were Japanese were labourers, or slaves.
A Brittanian Prince, Lelouch Lamperouge, was disowned by his very father the emporer and was sent to Japan along with his dearest sister Nunnully before the raid. For many years he has been plotting a scheme to liberate Japan and overthrow the Brittanian government. Though one day he encounters a mystical alien being known as C.C. whom gave him a very dangerous ability...to control anyone against their own will. This allowed his plans to be put on wheels immediately. He took the identity known as Zero, a hero of justice and the weak, in order to preserve his former life as a regular high school student. The world was going to experience a shockwave so great that it'll challenge the entire Brittanian government under the character named Zero, and its stage, Tokyo Japan.
At first geass, the power that allows utter dominance over anyone, seemed like a neat and unique gimmick. A concept like this is perfect for a slice of life comedy, but Lelouch uses it to its max potential to manipulate governors to give him an edge in the battle against Brittania. In conjunction with his brilliant battle strategies and 100% foolproof plan, Lelouch orchestrates the greatest and most entertaining fictional rebellion ever. Even greater than the Rebel Alliance.
The battles and raids are like a well disguised chess game without the wait times, and Lelouch is the one making the moves. Everything is taken into consideration; his number of available units, their positions, the environment and its reaction with different things, and even the pattern behaviours of his enemies. Your blood just rushes in excitement at the sight of overwhelming Brittanian soldiers plundering into chaos under a giant landslide with Lelouch's knowledge of geography, or how he can lead his opponents into a trap just by knowing how they are going to react.
Even better is that the action makes this whole chess game twice as fun to watch. The knightmares themselves are very intriguing models. They have a lot more features installed into them than the normal types of mechas from other anime, one in particular these cable wires that can be used for both mobility and in battle. The knightmare battles are some of the best I've seen in anime, lots of aesthetic and dynamic value with a high budget to boot. Simply put, Code Geass is one of the best action animes ever.
Just as good as its battles are its political issues. The second main character, Kururugi Suzaku, is Lelouch's bestfriend, and also greatest enemy on the battlefield. He is Brittanian's ace pilot of the best knightmare unit ever created, the Lancelot. Often these two meet in battle without even knowing each other's identity, and when they are not exchanging bullets and missiles on the battlefield, they are exchanging their compassion and help at the school they both attend.
Though what truly makes this duo of characters really intriguing is their politics. Suzuka plans on liberating Japan by gaining the trust of the Brittanian government and making changes interally. Lelouch looks towards a more aggressive approach by destroying the Brittanian government in Japan in the form of terrorism. Who is right and who is wrong? Both of them have their rights and wrongs, it all depends on what you favour more. It really makes this anime a lot more engaging and fun. Though you grow to really like both characters, you wish sometimes it took a more story book approach where evil and good were clear in sides.
Though other than the great cohesion between its mecha and political genres, what took me by surprise the most is its emotion. You feel at loss when the rebel units are terminated during battle and are rewarded when Brittanian forces are destroyed. Really a testament to how great the character development is in Code Geass. There are even tears to be shed late in the first and second season when some of its plot twists are triggered. However, there are times when this anime gets a bit too sensitive on emotion and feelings.
There really is only one thing that is setting back Code Geass; its high school life moments. Suzuka and Lelouch are both students at the same academy and sometimes entire episodes are dedicated to their high school life. It is good enough as a mecha and political anime, but the high school elements almost seemed forced in order to add another dimension. Not to say it does it poorly; the high school characters are actually very likable, good enough for its own spinoff series, and there are a lot of cheers and giggles here and there. Though with this added genre, it makes it very hard for Code Geass to keep up a consistent tone and theme. The high school life was fun, but also unnecessary.
Code Geass is truly at its best when Suzuka and Lelouch are out battling each other in the battlefield. Very elaborate on its political issues, deep in philosophical issues, heavy on action, and it makes chess a bloodrush to watch. While its genre of high school life feels like it is getting in the way of greatness, it still does a great job on being a high school anime; not enough to discredit it from being one of the best animes ever. This will appeal to many Death Note fans, but the ones who will love Code Geass the most are just about, well any anime fan.
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3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
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antipunt |
(2008-10-04 20:58:00) 2008-10-03 03:01:15 |
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| Average |
9.5 |
| Animation |
10 |
| Sound |
9 |
| Story |
10 |
| Character |
9 |
| Value |
10 |
| Enjoyment |
9 |
| code geass finally comes to an end. I have to say, this was quite the psychological roller coaster ride with its ups and downs. And surprise: an anime for once is at its highest point, at its end (well not 'for once', but certainly very rare)
And by this statement I deliver no spoilers. By high I don't necessarily mean happy go lucky joy joy. But I mean masterfully crafted. Delivered close to perfection while also requiring the viewer to reflect on its meaning and implications. I myself found my first reaction toward the ending similar to most of the general populace. But let me assure you that with some sharp critical analysis of the episodes (or just surfing google), one will finally see the ending 'come together' in a form of the masterpiece that it was meant to be. I think hands down Geass R2 has one of the most complex yet satisfying endings of any anime I have ever seen, and that alone boosts the anime to 'epic level' in terms of rating
But don't get me wrong. This anime had me going at places. But first, the objective portions.
Geass has great fluid animation. Most of the shots are incredibly beautiful. Nothing artsy or too crazy here, but solid and consistent. And for my personal biases, I found Geass's animation to be quite attractive, in both senses of the meaning.
The sound was decent but nothing spectacular..though I might want to hold my tongue on saying that. There are those that would slap me twice in the face due to Geass's impressive musical choices, and I do admit that point. There aren't, however, any emotional sledgehammer choices besides one particular song. So this doesn't execute music like Elfen Lied or Honey and Clover or such. But then again, this is not to say the music is bad. In fact, its is quite good. Very good.
*edit: after upon further review of Code Geass and R2's soundtrack, I reprimand myself for saying they were not epic level. The songs are amazing, and heartwrenching at best
The character and story is where this anime deserves its shining gold medal. This is story telling of the highest class. Similar to to the Death Note fashion, we have twists among twists among twists. At points you may feel that its going bonkers/absolutely nowhere. But it is because of the brilliant execution of the final arcs that everything comes together. And we don't get a "Darker than Black" moment where we're going.. "um...wtf is going on?". More rather, we feel that everything beautifully comes together to form a shining masterpiece rather than a confusing mound of garbage. And this perhaps leads to my favorite category.
Authenticity. This is arguably (IMO) one of the most important aspects of an anime. How much do they 'mean what they mean?'. Do people even care? Are we being sold to like consumers or is there meaning behind people's actions/their story/their character. And Geass gets a brilliant star of 'yes yes yes'. This is not to say I found myself grimacing at certain parts that made me feel cheapened. The overhaul of ecchi-shots. The ridiculous over-sex imaging and camera angles. I felt my eyebrow twitch with frustration like Lelouch himself. My complaint is mainly a separation of 'church and state'..and in anime's terms of 'ridiculous over-sex and story'. However, as unlikely as it is, I find myself completely forgiving these moments. The anime, in retrospect, DID separate these two categories after all. And I discovered this by looking at the anime via birdseye. To my delight, in its entire-ness, I noticed that Geass had ecchi-'episodes', and 'nonecchi' episodes completely devoid of sexual material. In other words, when it gets serious, Geass takes off its clown hat and gets serious. That is, now that I think about it, completely forgivable, IF you can pull those 'serious' moments off.
And this is exactly what Geass does; the characters in this anime, are for some reason, extremely likable. And though I felt there should be some points taken off for less back-story development as I would've hoped, it still, I guess to be fair, performed marvelously in this sector as a whole. I find it rare that I would care for the characters and their story this much. The development overall had me actually rooting for the direction and choices, akin to the feeling of the early Naruto episodes. Quite a feat, and equally intellectual to animes like Eureka Seven.
Therefore, despite the ecchi moments and supposedly over-complicated mesh of confusing plot choices, the anime as a whole shines and 'mistakes' are either understood or completely forgiven. All and all, Geass shines because of its magnificent ending, which pulls the anime home to receive gold at the finish line. In some sense, you could say I got 'punked' by Lelouch.
What if Yagami Light developed a conscious and started to feel 'human'? What is the true meaning of 'lies'. Are lies always bad? Is the world better as it is, as it was, or should we look to the future. An intelligent and brilliantly crafted answer with authentic moments, likable characters, and a moving story with great sound and animation is Code Geass. I myself, am surprised that I found myself rating this series as epically as I have chosen to. But with the time that I have spent thinking carefully of how to judge this series, I concluded firmly that this anime, is indeed, of the highest class.
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0 of 0 people found this review helpful.
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Zors |
(2008-10-18 06:59:46) 2008-10-02 11:51:42 |
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| Average |
8.7 |
| Animation |
8 |
| Sound |
9 |
| Story |
9 |
| Character |
8 |
| Value |
9 |
| Enjoyment |
9 |
| On the surface, code geass R2 seems like one of those other mecha animes. Not quite! Although there's lot's of mecha action and typical story evolution, you're in for a treat! Everything is above standard, but it's the characters in combination with the story and sound that make this one a jewel. Even if you don't like mecha anime, the character interactions and constant evolution of status and factions keep you hooked on this anime.
Definitely a must see!
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1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
10.0 |
| Animation |
10 |
| Sound |
10 |
| Story |
10 |
| Character |
10 |
| Value |
10 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| Brilliant anime this one, truely one of the best i've seen since Samurai Champloo.
Code Geass has it all, good animation, sound, but overall story; the storie is compelling and unique!
A must watch for everyone even if you aren't a mecha fan.
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1 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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Yenno |
2008-08-22 21:22:40 |
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| Average |
9.5 |
| Animation |
8 |
| Sound |
10 |
| Story |
10 |
| Character |
10 |
| Value |
9 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| Following the massively successful Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, comes the sequel, Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R2. Continuing from where season one left off, season two introduces new characters, called Knights of Rounds to hinder Lelouch once again.
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2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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| Average |
9.8 |
| Animation |
10 |
| Sound |
9 |
| Story |
10 |
| Character |
10 |
| Value |
10 |
| Enjoyment |
10 |
| Following on from one of the best animes of the recent years (that left us with a massive cliff hanger *shakes fist) most people that have seen the first season will be like WTF? for the first episode, but stick with it. Those who havent seen the first one, (while recomending you watch the first on as its ridiculously good) will be able to come straight into this one. Characters, story and animation are all crisp and top-notch. The main characters provide massive depth for the audience to personalise with. Minimal filler episodes which means the plot is tight and often episodes will leave you on the edge of your seat begging for more. All the characters from the first season appear with some additional inclusions (suzaku is still annoyingly present ./sigh)but thats expected as he acts as a oppisite/balancing force to Zero. While not being a huge mecha fan this aspect of the anime is overshadowed in awesomeness by Zero's mental planning and public interactions and just how ridiculously good he is. A must watch!
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2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
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