Amatsuki · review
Amatsuki is an interesting show. It has all the elements that should make it great - interesting show mythology, intriguing moral dilemmas, some interesting and cool characters, an interesting and unique setting, and some supernatural stuff at play. The first couple episodes really draw you in a promise a good story. What the show gives falls somewhat short of that. Throughout the show, all manner of hints are teased out about what the large plot of the story is and where it is going, who the characters are and why they are important and all that manner of thing. However, while the show builds upall the main plot, it actually focuses on a much smaller plot, a single story piece. While this enjoyable, and does occasionally illuminate the larger scope of the show, it merely only hints at what could be truly great. In the end, the show does resolve its story properly but leaves you wondering about the larger, overarching plot and really feels like the first part of an epic continuous story. While I did appreciate how the smaller plot was handled, over several episodes - so it didn't feel like useless filler, the larger plot elements were not elaborated on enough and the show really left you wanting much more. To that end, a continuation is hopefully in the works because the story just seems to getting started (The Manga itself is still ongoing). I, for one, was very interested in the plot and enjoyed all the supernatural elements. This is definitely a series I'd be watching the second part of. The art is exceptional, very nice to look at and there are some very interesting and skillful artistic effects. Otherwise, it serves its purpose well as it deals with ghostly entities and monsters. The character designs are interesting. Some of them are very unique and interesting to see. The most interesting looking characters are also the most interesting in terms of plot and are actually characters worth watching. Heihachi is one that surprised me in the end. His character, for an ordinary person in such a strange world, plays out very well. The music is also particularly appealing. The opening theme is wonderful but all the internal music is appropriate and compelling as well. Overall, I'd say this is a wonderful show that has much story to deal with yet, hopefully in a sequel series.