Joru no Yatterman

The first part of this season was very good, and it almost looked like we could expect some really interesting things from this show. Unfortunately, the second part obliterated this enthusiasm, and the third part did not resolve where this show was headed. After a while, you realize that this is a dark anime series with a social subtext about a young girl's struggle against society. However, it is also a hilarious romp full of over-the-top nonsense and crazy mecha. I think it is an OK combination. As I have watched the 2008 Yatterman anime series, which is supposed to be a sort of indirect prequel, I could enjoy even the initially silly and over-the-top nonsense. I could enjoy it because, as I guessed quite correctly, the crazy mecha and over-the-top nature of some situations combined with the slightly crazy sense of humor is what this anime series is. Plus, viewers familiar with the prequel would probably be disappointed by the absence of any of those elements. As far as the characters are concerned, I thought the young Leopard and her evil laugh were good. As far as her two sidekicks are concerned, they are not too bad either; Boyacky is like MacGyver and can build a huge mecha monster even from a minimum of material. Tonzura gives the impression of being a big fighter with a huge heart. Galina and Ally were not very impressive at first, although it was clear they were important to the show after a while. Then there is the mascot, the little pig, which I guess is supposed to be the comic relief, although I did not find it amusing. It would not have changed much if Tonzura had eaten it as he mooted a few times. The ending, as it was, was largely what I expected, although it was slightly surprising, and I have to say that even though this anime series is crazy, I quite liked it, so I am going to award it a weaker four stars. (25/01/2015)