Review of Katanagatari
NO-SPOILERS BELOW Story 10/10: It's fun and original. I won't repeat what the synopsis says but I will say it is exactly as long as it needs to be, which makes the pacing perfect. Every episode was aired originally one month apart over the course of a year which, incidentally, is exactly how much time elapses in the story from start to finish. Every episode steps into the lives of the main characters on their year long journey, a choice that allows the relationships of the characters to progress quickly but also keep it believable. Art 10/10: This is a bigone here. The art style is very unique in this anime and I absolutely adore it. Every character is unique to the point that even if you removed all of their hair you'd still be able to tell them apart. Besides the character's artwork the backdrops are also beautiful in their own right, and the action scenes are spectacularly animated.
Sound 10/10:
The music is memorable and absolutely fantastic. The voice acting is good and every character has their own unique laugh. The unique laugh was a little strange at first but once I got used to it I actually really enjoyed it, maybe you wont but I found it satisfying.
Character 10/10:
Every episode they introduce more characters that are interesting and well rounded, even if they are never seen again. The gives the effect that the world is really breathing and is full of people who have their own stories and lives outside of the main plot. While watching I had this habit of putting the main characters into simple and straightforward archetypes but with each passing episode we learn more and more about the duo and you realize there is way more to them than your typical cut-out anime characters.
Enjoyment 10/10:
This anime was full of surprises and twists I simply did not expect and, without spoiling anything, the ending is bitter sweet is the best way possible. The final episode just does everything right.
Overall 10/10:
Honestly, this anime just does everything right for me. I could not recommend it enough.