Review of Hyouka

got tired of and almost dropped it but Nakoruru King and Mai cameos caught me so off guard it kept me watching. SNK rep! Play some KOF! Anyway, biggest issue I have is what exactly I'm supposed to be invested in. The mystery always shifts from one mini-story to another so there's no time to really sink myself into the gradual progression in anticipation of its resolution, no matter how neatly tied together and foreshadowed it is. Not a fan of Oreki going on a 5 minute explanation monologue everytime we reach a major revelation either, though thats just a subjective issue I have with mostmystery media. Nor do i want to follow most of these characters who stay static for most of its prolonged runtime. Fuku has a wonderful understated arc thoughout the show though, easily my favourite.

So as a narrative experience, down its core: no strong feelings. What I can respect though is the top tier visual presentation, some of the most dynamic simulated camerawork in a modern anime ive seen. along with its utilization of a great deal of narrative tricks interwoven in between a really interesting blend of mystery and slice of life. Appreciated its more laid back approach to comedy as well. Even if it gets a little dull at times, every moment feels consciously deliberated; no shortcuts in terms of its technical aspects. It always feels like the people making this cared a lot, really wish I could too.