Review of Bakemonogatari

So let's imagine for a moment a world where harem anime wasn't susceptible to so many bad tropes, the MC wasn't a complete dolt, and all the female cast were fleshed-out microcosms of pure fun. Now, let's make all the female VA's do openings for the arcs of their characters and then toss in some silly innuendos that are ultimately non-intrusive and part of the ride. Now, multiply it by Mr Bones' Wild Ride (Google it). Ready? Bakemonogatari is the first in the Monogatari series and unlike the adaptations of the rest of the novels, it aims to bash your brains out with how fun itis. Each arc seems self-contained at first and like GitS: SaC does contribute to the overall story, but unlike the other it doesn't seem to notice that there is an overarching plot. As if self-aware, the series takes every opportunity to tell you what's what and then turn around and say "Oh, I was lying." before dragging you through another story; and believe me when I say it doesn't need to drag you.

What is wrong with the music? Nothing. Every OST from the high-energy "Iroboke Neko" to the almost creepy "Hyouri" and even soft, melodic "Senjoughara Tare" make each scene they're used in feel all the more authentic. But then there are the openings. "We have a budget? Since when" went one SHAFT employee. "Since forever. Money doesn't just grow on trees." Replied the other. "What is this 'money'? Sounds like some bullshit you just made up." Employee 1 retorted angrily.

But I would be lying if I said the music made the series. While a big factor, you'll end up staying for the art and animation. Each scene is cleverly put together with a combination of posing (sometimes in ways that seem painful) and "cut-ins" of the MC's thoughts in text. Perhaps because the budget was kill on the music ("DAMMIT MAN, I'M THE BOSS! JUST USE CUT-AWAYS TO TEXT AND GET ME MORE MUSIC!") but the stylish method they do this with feels too natural to be anything but a welcome addition. The only issue is our "cut-ins" don't last long enough to read through before returning to the scene and you might feel the need to go back and read it. Personally, it flowed really well.

So why do people enjoy this series so much aside the music and art? The characters. There is a waifu for everyone and no-one and while it is typical "Everyone loves MC" harem style, the personalities feel fresh and the interactions are anything but typical. Sengoku Nadeko is the only character the fanbase can't find it in themselves to like (until Second Season) and it's understandable and at the same time not. The "Fire Sisters" are the MC's siblings and our first shot of them leaves a bad impression that is later fixed. Finally, Tsubasa Hanekawa, Hachikuji Mayoi, Kanbaru Suruga, and Kiss-Shot Acerola-Orion Heart-Under-Blade Shinobu Oshino are the female cast held in the highest regard for this part of the series. Later on, Karen Araragi and Tsukihi Araragi get their well-deserved spotlights while additions to the female cast only work to freshen things up.

Should you try Bakemonogatari? Not if you have a life and aspirations for it. This series will pull you in and keep you from escaping with a combination of sharpened pencils and duct tape. And the best part is, you'll enjoy it.