Review of A Place Further Than The Universe
Somehow a friend’s recommendation got me watching this. Not something I would usually watch just looking at the title, I gave it a go anyway and boy did I enjoy this anime more than I thought I would. Story 8/10 The story to be honest is nothing special at all. Its your typical story about a group of individuals from different walks of life coming together to achieve a certain goal. The story is simple and almost predictable (actually no make that straightforward) but watching how the various members of the story interact with one another is what makes this anime so unique and enjoyable. Iguess its main selling point is that this is a trip about 4 girls, discovering the beauty of youth and friendship. Learning along the way that not everything is as it seems and maturing from their various encounters. Anyone who has been on a trip with friends or stayed with others for an extended period of time might find the problems they face familiar. While beautifully told, I felt it was too short but I guess that’s what happens when you have to keep the 13 episodes limit cap.
Art 9/10
The art is simple enough, it portrays the beauty of Antartica realistically (not that I have been there and would know what its like). The scenes in Singapore were also gorgeous and really well drawn. As a Singaporean it makes me proud to see our small little island being featured in such mediums and I think the team at Madhouse did a wonderful job. Overall despite its simplicity I very much enjoyed the medium.
Sound 8/10
Wont talk much about this but the OP “The Girls are Alright” seemed to me a very fitting and nice way to begin each episode with its refreshing sounds from the drums. Overall, the background music and sounds chosen were quite appropriate for the show and helped pace the show along nicely.
Character 10/10
Each character has their own unique personality and story. Throughout the series we explore their various struggles and personalities getting a better insight into each of them. The characters resonate so much with me I guess is because within each character I find myself struggling with them (and you probably would too!). For example, Shirase’s desire to prove everybody wrong, her stubbornness and pride is something I find myself often struggling with. To let others assist me, comfort me is something I don’t find easy. Even when the going gets tough, I choose to rely on my own strength rather than burden others just like Hinata. Shiraishi’s desire to fit in and insecurity of her own friendship and Tamaki’s over-optimistic view of the world leading her to be quite naive are all things I can relate to. Seeing them overcome each of their own problems reminds me of my own strength and ability to overcome whatever challenges life poses to me right now
Enjoyment 9/10
Overall, I enjoyed this show, while a bit slow to pick up the pace give it the 3 episode treatment and I am sure you too will be hooked on it wanting to see what antics the girls are up to next. The show is inspiring and reminds us as individuals that our time is limited and we shouldn’t waste our youths and time. It also challenges us to not let our dreams and hopes just be dreams even if it all seems so impossible and people laugh at us. There’s a quote in this anime by Shirase which I think perfectly sums up the story “Just let people say what they want. Wanting to show them up fires me up even more.” This show isn’t perfect but its inspiring and worth a watch with its characters being its strongest point.