The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009)

Review of The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2009)

8/10
Recommended
December 13, 2009
2 min read
34 reactions

*This review is spoiler-free, for those few who have not yet been spoiled* *Please note: I have given this season an 8/10 based on a particular way of viewing it, please read on to understand what I mean.* So, finally, this is the second season of Haruhi and whether you've heard or not - there's a lot of controversy surrounding it. As any comments on the controversy will inevitably lead to spoilers, I will refrain, and instead give you some helpful advice on how to best enjoy the season while avoiding its less pleasant side. So, what's this advice, you ask? Just skip episodes 4-8. Yes, I'm serious.You'll understand when you get there.

As a 9 episode series, the second season earns an 8/10 rating from me, and I'm sure you'll find it enjoyable as well. As a 14 episode series? Probably a 5 or 6.

In terms of content, this season has three "arcs": episode 1, episodes 2-9 and episodes 10-14. As some of you may or may not know, this season actually fits into the middle of the first season, so, if you're in the mood, you can rewatch it as part of the first season, (it is not, however, necessary) to do so, just follow these easy steps!

1) Make sure you're watching the first season in chronological, not airing order. (Read more on Wikipedia if you're not sure what this means).
2) After original episode 7, "The Boredom of Haruhi Suzumiya", insert the first episode of the second season.
3) After this, continue watching the first season normally until original episode 12, "Remote Island Syndrome Part 2", insert the rest of the second season episodes here, leaving out episodes 4-8.
4) After the end of the second season, insert the remainder of the first season episodes.

Please note: I do not in any way endorse what KyoAni did with around 35% of this season, I am merely proposing what I feel to be the best solution given the circumstances. If you gave this season a poor rating, I can't say I blame you, though I try to look at things in a more positive light. I found that, having only watched 1-3 and 9-14, I found the season rather enjoyable, and so my review reflects that.