Review of Land of the Lustrous

Houseki no Kuni is undeniably a stunning anime. Its unique concept of using jewels as characters is quite uncommon, and the way each character's traits mirror the characteristics of the gem they represent adds depth to the narrative. In the initial seven episodes, particularly the first half of each, there's a sense of monotony and repetition that might leave some viewers feeling bored. However, the allure of the series lies in its captivating fight scenes. The animation during these battles is breathtaking, with each character's movements and the way light reflects off their hair being particularly striking. Additionally, the sound design, such as the noises madewhen the characters walk or interact, effectively reinforces the idea that they are gems rather than merely humans with gemstone colors.

Initially, the direction of the plot in the first few episodes may seem unclear, as the series appears to lean towards being an action-oriented slice of life. However, as the story progresses, viewers become increasingly drawn in, eager to learn more about the Lunarians, the intricacies of the world in which Phos and their friends reside, and the deeper layers of the narrative.

Overall, I would rate "Houseki no Kuni" an 8/10. While the initial episodes may require some effort to get through due to their repetitive nature, the series gradually becomes more compelling with each episode, thanks to its stunning animation and evolving storyline.