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» shoujoboy's Maria-sama ga Miteru Tv Review
Maria-sama ga Miteru tv Review
Story & Characters
Let me preface by saying two things. Firstly, this review encompases both current seasons and will be revisited upon
release of the OVA. Secondly, I would like to start off by saying sorry to the readers. This review may at times sound
extremely redundant with word usage but this isn't entirely my fault. There are only so many words in a thesaurus
that are synonomous with the word 'brilliant' which is the only way to describe Maria-sama ga miteru. I have
never once in my many years of anime viewing encountered a show that could actually haunt my dreams and occupy my mind
all day until this. A short intro to the show. The story takes place in the Lilian All Girls School, a catholic school
in honor of the Virgin Mary. In this school there is a hierarcy that helps to develop younger students and makes older
students more of a role model. At the top is the three Roses, the heads of the Yamayurikai. Below that is the Rosa en
bouton, the next in line to replace the Roses. Then the upper class students mentor the younger students and make them
their 'soeur'. This creates an atmosphere of extreme bonds that mostly feels like a older/younger sibling
relationship but at times is more of a maternal relationship. This show is not particularly plot heavy, but it is heavy
in character interaction and drama. The main coupling in the show consists of the down to earth Yumi and the very
sheltered yet kind hearted Sachiko. While you watch this relationship grow, you get to see the others around them
develop and intertwine creating an ambient glow about the whole show. The reason it is such an addicting ride is that
every character is almost like a rose, one that you get to see bloom right before your eyes. The critic in me would
likely score this low because of it's lack of a deep plot, but a deep plot is not always necessary if the story is
engaging.
Rating: 9
Art
The art of Maria-sama ga miteru can only be described as haunting and beautiful. It is by no means the most polished
animation out there, and it's no Gonzo mega production, but it georgeous and aesthetic. Background animations are
drawn almost to have a pastel or watercolor feel to it. It's like looking through a stained glass window and
seeing the entire world in a different light. Character models are all delicately drawn as if a gust of wind could blow
away all of their detail. There is really no other way of describing it properly with all the words of the English
langauge at my disposal; simply stunning. It fits the show perfectly, nothing less.
Rating: 10
Sound
If there is one way to get me to rate music high, its give me an exquisite piano and classical composition. This has
one of the best overall soundtracks to date and really brings this anime to life. It compliments the on screen artistry
by providing poignant and melodic masterpieces. The opening and closing songs are done by the often overlooked but
fantastic Ali Project. Most know them for their fast paced songs from shows like Noir, Avenger and Rozen Maiden. But
those who have actually purchased one of their CD's like Etoile or Dilettante, know that the non-vocal music they
create can be amazing. The songs composed for Maria-sama ga miteru are no exception. In terms of the BGM and music
throughout the show, it is equally impressive. Stringed instruments and beautiful piano playing develops the atmosphere
wonderfully. Also in my humble opinion, a show that can incorporate 'Ava Maria' seemlessly into its story
structure deserves high praise.
Complimenting the remarkable soundtrack is the superb voice acting. The seiyuu's all maintain their given
characters personality intact. They all sound extremely lady-like and soft spoken. The characters are brought to life
and end up sounding so elegant its almost surreal. The best performance award is so hard to give out due to the overall
great performances given by all. The least I can do is pick two. The first goes to Miki Itoh as Sachiko. This
character in particular sounded so dignified and refined, almost as if she was a princess. She really brought out the
elegance of Sachiko and was able to bring out her maternal and sisterly sound when speaking to her souer Yumi. My
second would be Megumi Toyoguchi as Sei Satou or better known as Rosa Gigantea. She was one of the most unique
characters in that she wasn't as 'prissy' or high classed as the others. She was very kind and actually
quite mischievious and at other times she showed her weaknesses. A very well acted part.
Rating: 10
Presentation
If I could equate this show to anything it would be like watching the most beautiful roses glisten in the morning dew.
After two episodes it is hard to stop watching, it's engrosing in its simplicity. I almost felt as if I was doing
the show injustice by not watching it in a low light with a Tuxedo on. The story was laid out from the beginning and
all that was left was execution which this hit dead on. The characters were brought to life by the fantastic animation
and voice acting. They were lovable and a pure joy to watch grow up. Two things made this show truly unique. Most
animes you watch to see what happens next. Will the war end? Will this person end up with that person? Always looking
ahead. Marimite was all about living in the present. Seeing the characters right now and not caring what happens two
episodes later. That is a trait unlike any other show I've seen. The other is the sheer emotional rollercoaster
ride you are put on throughout this experience. There are times to laugh, to feel embarrased, and times to cry. In
fact just watching the last 3 episodes I went from a sick feeling in my stomach to having to wipe tears off my cheek.
This show is able to grab the viewer and make them a part of something amazing.
Some people may find this a difficult show to watch due to its slow pace, its somewhat taboo subject matter, the fact
that it doesn't contain huge amounts of action or crazy plot twists and to be honest the majority of males may not
take kindly to the show. But those who want an engaging coming of a age anime, one of like has never been done before,
this show will be sure to please. This is a show of class and dignity, one of which I have never encountered. One that
truly shows the versatility of anime as a whole. If this goes by the wayside and never gets a US license, many people
will miss out on one of the greatest achievements in animation history (#2 on my all-time list currently sitting at 85
total series viewed). I sincerely hope everyone gets a chance to see this and judge for themselves.
Rating: 10
Final Verdict
9.6667 (excellent)
Reviewed by shoujoboy, Jan 25, 2006
Comments
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I watched the first season of this however i found it overly boring and still haven't been able to bring myself to
watching the spring season, probably cause i'm a guy at a co-ed school. I can understand how people would enjoy it
as it is highly original however i still think it is fairly empty in the plot and to likewise overly simple. I honestly
don't think this would get licensed in the US as although it's original it wouldn't grab enough customers
to make it financially worth while for anyone. Still we'll wait and see.
Although i didn't like the series myself i still say nice job on the review (just try to be gentle with the
10's :P)
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Hey I like your Review , it's awesome, And i think maybe the season 3th it's going to be on sale by july 06
let's wait for it and for the Oav? when it's comes to the light and where did you find out, i'll wait for
you reply ^^
sincerely...
:: ScaRgoPrin ::
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Wonderful review! So articulately written and enthusiastic. Marimite is a terrific series that's sadly underrated
by series that are undeserving.
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That's a really well-written and enthousiastic review. I have watched the first season and I like it even though I
couldn't really understand why. But I have sometimes the feeling that you don't have to dig too much as long
as you feel the magic.
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Its not everyday we get someone with the guts giving "excellent" in a review. Wow, well done. I really liked
this series and did introduced it to some friends(naruto-tard), only to be branded sissy-boy. Well whatever. The point
is, while the review is stating the genuine uumph factor, it was presented in way that someone might actually be
convinced and want to give it a try, which I doubt I can. I personally think that anyone should give this a chance and
see for themselves. The charm lies on its elite characters and the haunting music scores. I enjoyed it.
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lol very nice written review ~ I've seen only the first ep of maria-sama , n I find it *ehem* sooo boringg n was
actually surprised I watched it to the end XD; but maybe it got better in the next eps .. >_> who knows XP
definitely not my type of anime though X)
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Nice one, i agree with your review,this is an anime you like or don't like, just read the response you got.
I found it extremely relaxing like a nice bottle off wine, you take your time to relax and enjoy the taste and you walk
away with a good feeling.
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never seen it though but reading the article bout it i think its kinda good anime.
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