Review of Gintama

"Boss, friendship is not something decided in one day, but it's something formed before you know it." - Okita Sougo, Episode 86 When watching Gintama there are three easy rules to follow: 1) Skip the first two episodes. Everyone says it, and they are right. While I was one of the very, very few who actually kind of enjoyed them; these two episodes are not representative of the series at all. You won't be missing anything and you can always watch them later. 2) Don't skip comedy episodes or arcs.People tend to ask "when will Gintama get serious?" and that is a dangerous mindset to have when starting this series because you will become tunnel-visioned; looking for action when that is not what Gintama is. Gintama is, first and foremost, a comedy. The comedy episodes build character, immerse you in the world, are often hilarious, and many will become important to the story in unexpected ways.

3) Take your time.

For some people, like myself, binging Gintama was the best way to watch this show. I absolutely love the episodic format and short arcs since they don't feel like too much of an investment. I can easily watch a large number of episodes in a row without noticing. But this approach isn't for everyone. Sometimes taking a break is the best way. Watch a couple of episodes and then watch a different series for a bit. If you feel like things are dragging then go away, watch something different, and come back with a fresh perspective. It can really help.

So what makes Gintama good?

It's complicated but if I have to give three reasons it would be the characters, the story arcs and the amount of love put into the series by those who work on it.

The characters are the most important element of Gintama. I could write pages about why the relationship between Gintoki, Kagura, and Shinpachi is engaging, heartfelt and well-written. And while this trio absolutely dominates the screen, they aren't the only characters who drive the story and bond to the audience. From the Shinsengumi to the rebelling factions, to the everyday people of Edo trying to live their lives, every character is important. If even one of them was removed, there would be a noticeable hole left behind and, with such a huge cast, that is an impressive feat.

The beauty of Gintama's cast comes from every character being allowed to exist as someone important. Everyone is the main character in their own story (even if they only have one appearance), and Gintama's episodic structure allows them to be explored to their fullest. Some of the most impactful characters only appear for one or two episodes, but they leave something behind.

This is because the story arcs are truly some of the best. The progression of the plot through comedy can be a little repetitive for some, lulling you into a sense of security; making you think that you know what will happen. But that makes the gut punches all the more powerful. Two notable, and underrated, examples can be found in the Okita Mitsuba Arc (86 - 87) and the Guardian Dog Arc (107 - 108) where the story takes unexpected turns that challenges the conventions of the series. Gintama never shies away from the darker elements of its narrative and premise.

For two-episode arcs to have such an emotional impact is a testament to how great the writing can be. And I don't want to undersell the comedy. Some of Gintama's most ridiculous moments are some of its best. I have a long list of comedy episodes that I watch when I need a boost, and they never fail to make me laugh. Everyone will have different episodes that they love and you would be able to understand why.

And this is because of the staff. The people who worked on this series clearly care, but they are also aware of their own shortcomings. The references to the budget, the threat of cancellation and the dedication to toilet humour really make Gintama stand out. The staff are just as aware as the characters and you can't help but respect them for directing the audience's attention to this.

There is ingenuity to this series that cannot easily be matched and this is because the animation staff, and Sorachi, are willing to go beyond what's necessary to make jokes hit. Gintama's fourth-wall breaks are famous for a reason and part of that is because the staff are willing to make themselves (as well as the wider industry) the butt of the joke.

Gintama is a series that never holds back and it is all the better for it.

For some, the animation will be a little bit too lacklustre at moments. For some, the jokes will not land. For some, the lack of immediate action and plot will make it difficult for them to watch. And that's ok. Gintama isn't a perfect series and it doesn't pretend to be.

However make no mistake, Gintama may be an investment but, when it sinks its claws in, it is a series that will never let go.