Review of Shiki

Shiki is a S = Supernatural H = Horror with vampires I = Inconclusive to a degree with K = killings...many killings. Shiki portrays a classic supernatural thriller with a plethora of characters and sets a tone of intrigue and tragedy. Shiki caught my eye within the first episodes and I truthfully have enjoyed watching this series. I would go so far as to rate to rate it a higher score if I could, but the plot really determines whether or not the show is really truly a masterpiece, which Shiki felt like it got the short end of the stick. Story: The story is simple. Thesetting is set in a peaceful village with friendly neighbors all being part of a close-knit family/community...that is until a new family moves into town. Well, from there, the plot becomes rather predictable, leaving few plot twists to make it truly memorable, but what I do like is that sense of nostalgia of going back to the roots of the old vampire legends of how things were carried in regards to properly "taking care of them." If you are a fan of the vampire genre, especially from the Twilight fan base, you will not find anything beautiful or deeply romantic. What you will find is mystery and a decent thriller because just when you think a victim will survive, ha..ha..nope, another one bites the dust. I will mention that though the story does not really pick up until about episodes 13-15.

Art: The art was unique yet it also reminded as if it were an adult version of Yu-Gi-Oh on steroids. It took some time for me to get adjusted to the animation style.

Sound: I love the first OP and the second ED. I mean, come on, who doesn't like Gackt!? The music arrangement plays well with Gothic undertones which adds more richness to the chilling ambiance of the series..

Character: While I don't have any particular favorite characters, the series flushes out main and secondary characters to where you know their personalities, backgrounds and lifestyles. I was also caught off guard thinking that the pink-haired teen, Megumi was going to be the main female protagonist, but I was quite mistaken. I became affected and sympathetic with a few characters about their own beliefs and biases in regards to themes of humanity, survival, classifying whether actions are necessary or whether they are pure evil and so on.

Enjoyment: Shiki was
S = Satisfactory
H = Horrific
I = Impacting
K = Kooky in artistic style and
I = Irresolute toward plot execution, which is why the rating is a 7 and not a 9 or 10.