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shoujoboy's Maria-sama ga Miteru Tv Review

Maria-sama ga Miteru

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

  1. littlejonny100 Retired Moderator Jan 25, 2006

    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)

  2. scargoprin Jan 25, 2006

    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 ::

  3. Ky Jan 25, 2006

    Wonderful review! So articulately written and enthusiastic. Marimite is a terrific series that's sadly underrated by series that are undeserving.

  4. almina Jan 27, 2006

    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.

  5. rgnk Jan 30, 2006

    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.

  6. rythem Feb 01, 2006

    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)

  7. dimako Feb 03, 2006

    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.

  8. naomi6454 Mar 22, 2006

    never seen it though but reading the article bout it i think its kinda good anime.

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