Review of Is This a Zombie? of the Dead

"Till death do us apart" Oh really? There are a lot of series these days about zombies, the walking dead, and ghosts. Just looking at this Spring Season, we have Sankarea and Dusk Maiden of Amnesia. Then, there's Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? of the Dead. Death certainly doesn't do them apart. In fact, those characters are among the world of the living and they breath the same air we do. Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? of the Dead also known as "Is This a Zombie? Of the Dead" is the sequel of the original series adapted from the manga. For those who have watched season 1,there was an actual storyline involving zombies, vampire ninjas, and necromancer. But in this sequel, where's the story? Of course, that's a problem especially in comedies like this these days. Whether you're an avid anime elitist or a casual fan, storyline is usually imperative to craft a series we can enjoy. If you're looking for a powerful storyline, then you're in the wrong place because in this sequel, the storyline is dead as a zombie.

Having that being said, there is quite a lot of humor every episode. Some of the common cliche are also present in the typical ecchi and harem themes ranges from the all cute adorable delusions that Ayumu have towards Eu to the brutal tsundere known as Seraphim. It's not surprise either considering there's no storyline and this is almost like a parody. It tries to make us laugh but thankfully, it succeeded somewhat; at least in most cases. Well, I wouldn't call it hilarious to the point of being labeled as blockbuster but it definitely has guts, the guts to pull off some stunts with Ayumu's "harem". Between some scenes though, there are some surprisingly heartwarming moments (especially involving our beloved necromancer) but most of these times, it's twisted into a more brutal way with bloody gags.

The plot for this sequel is technically nonexistent. Even if it had one, it would probably go straight to hell like our main character. Further more to Ayumu's screwed up life is his ways of dealing with the situations in his undead life. It seems that however it goes, it always ends up being embarrassing him to the extreme. (at least in his view anyways) Despite introducing some new characters like the butt-loving Sarasvati, the return of Kyoko, and the loli nurse Chris, the series fails to execute their part in the storyline. Did we see a true character development? Did we see them actually getting into the story? By "into", I mean storyline-wise where they play their parts besides the typical harem cliche and fan-service.

Hence, let the randomness flourish.

KoreZom of the Dead does attempt these randomness in a way that brings out the laughter from our faces and I have to admit it again, it succeeded in some ways. Whether it's the perverted actions of Ayumu during his harem scenes or the parody references, it does achieve the entertainment value. Those Eu delusions that our weak protagonist Ayumu plays and replays in his mind are entertaining and who doesn't like our beloved vampire ninja Seraphim talk trash 24/7?

Then, there's the fanservice.

For the fans, the service is delivered more than just the maid cosplay episode. Even for some of the typical "fights", there is fanservice. A clear example is the in final episode of the typical "perverted slime". For those who has tuned in High School DxD last season, you'd get a good idea. Is this really necessary? Well, for entertainment and eye candies, yes. For storyline, I'll give you a hell no.

Now, the OP song for the series is surprisingly addictive and passionate. In fact, "Passionate" by Iori Nomizi is sung in a way that delivers dialogues that is different every episode at the end. It does keep the viewers watch those delicious girls all over the screen and as well as their cute/seductive poses. Or maybe, it might spawn some envy and jealousy toward our zombie. As for the background music, it's all just so-so, not something too note worthy.

As for art, is it artistic and valuable? Considering the fact that Studio Deen is involved in this might make some fans turn their heads away. But surprisingly, it doesn't ruin the series at all. In fact, the art is artistic this time around and some of the intermissions are quite catchy. When viewed in HQ, it almost looks like a cover of a book.

KoreZom of the Dead in the end is for people who values more on entertainment than a real series. What this means is that you should probably focus on the humor that the show desperately tries to pull out of their hats rather than a decent storyline. Yes, it's true, it's damn true. If you're expecting a storyline like season 1, then you can kiss it goodbye faster than the ED song. All that is nonexistent. If perhaps that doesn't get your attention, then perhaps some cross-dressing and Eu delusions might open your eyes a bit. With a strong arsenal of humor, parody, and dynamics, this series is one of those shows that perhaps you might decide to watch after a long week of work or school. But if you're looking for some sort of intriguing story, then turn your heads away now. You came to the wrong place. All in all, KoreZom of the Dead is one of those humor series that tries to be funny and succeeded in doing so. If not anything, it's entertainment in its most cliched form and usage.

Thankfully, we have Ayumu and his harem to pay gratitude for that.