Review of Haibane Renmei

This is my first review, so bear with me. Feedback would be GREATLY appreciated. Story 9/10 This story is very original. Rakka is a haibane, an angel-like being [with a halo and wings, yes] who is born into the town of Glie. Living with Reki, Rana, Kuu, Nemu, & Hikari, Rakka builds relationships and spends her time experiencing life in the town of Glie. A town whose residents, human or haibane, cannot leave, though the haibane have more restrictions. As the story moves, questions are raised and more clues are given, but you still won't piece the whole story together at the end. The great thing is,writer & director Hiroshi Negishi leaves you with no desire for more. Don't expect all of the answers at the end. It's not about the answers, but about the outcome.

Art 8/10
The art is not unique. It is simple and the animation falters at times, but it has an earthy feel to it, making the story seem closely rooted to nature.

Sound 9/10
The OP & ED are soothing and calming, creating an atmosphere that will make you want to ponder each episode as they end. Otherwise, the sound is quite alright with nothing unique about it.

Character 8/10
The character relationships make this story what it is. Rakka and her new companions only have each other and their work and when one person leaves it's like losing a fingernail -oh so painful at first, but eventually that part of you will regenerate.

Enjoyment 8/10
The story is extremely slow moving. It pulls you in with each episode, and only at the end of each do you realize how much more of the mystery you have learned. This is really what makes it interesting. While there are jumps in time in the anime, each moment passes as if in real time. Enjoy moving with the characters as if life is truly passing by.

Overall 9/10
The story is intriguing and mysterious and the characters keep your spirits up. It has humorous and dark moments and is inspiring.Is there something more to creating life? Do you truly appreciate what life has given you?