Review of The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya

I give this anime a 6. (Note: This review covers Seasons 1 and 2. I also happened to watch the series in a messed up hybrid broadcast/chronological order. Be warned. I give this anime a 6.) The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya was alright, I guess. The art was pleasant to look at, and the music was good (especially the legendary first ED). Holds up well for a 2006/2009 anime. I give this anime a 6. The story is built off the theme of the SOS Brigade trying to keep their leader Haruhi satisfied by doing what she wants (or else very bad things will happen). Every episode isa variation of this. She wants to do THIS wacky thing? Better do it. Now she wants to do THAT? Better do it! I give this anime a 6.

In this way, this anime is kind of a slice of life anime following the high school exploits of one girl. Of course, there are other certain twists that make things interesting, but the story is very episodic. There is a sort of overarching plot in episodes I-VI, but that's it. I personally like evolving stories where the actions of each character matter as the show continues, but to each their own. I give this anime a 6.

The characters are certainly unique and likable in their own ways. You got Haruhi Suzumiya herself, who could be see as either super quirky and full of energy, or obnoxious and self-absorbed. Kyon is the sarcastic male narrator lead. Yuki is the emotionless monotone genius being. Mikuru is the fanservice helpless whiny girl. Koizumi is the other guy. The focus of the story is definitely on Kyon and Haruhi, though. Unfortunately, there's not enough depth to them for me to praise them as great characters. I give this anime a 6.

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya looks nice and has some really catchy songs, but its main plot device wears thin rather quickly and the randomness of the episode ordering can only do so much to keep things interesting. The characters are entertaining at first, but become predictable later. Don't even get me started on the Endless Eight. I give this anime a 6.

Wait... I feel like... I have to... say something...!

"I give this anime a 6!"