Review of Bakemonogatari

Shaft is a studio well known for their weird experimental style, seemingly endless stream of anime in-jokes, and plentiful fan-service. Needless to say their work is an acquired taste and can be hit-or-miss. While this certainly applies to Bakemonogatari, it uses Shaft's signature style very well. Incredibly weird, and at times intentionally obtuse, yet undeniably intriguing and charming (albeit in its own weird way). This is easily one of the studio's best efforts. The show follows high school student and former vampire (it's complicated), Koyomi Araragi, through a string of bizarre supernatural happenings. Each happening is centered around an individual (all girls, of course) whom somehowhas become involved in the supernatural, and stumble upon our protagonist, who by nature feels the need to aid them. The show is divided into five arcs, each intriguing and creative on their own right, which are loosely tied to each other into a well thought out whole.

Now, this might sound like the show is formulaic, but rest assured, the show's unhinged creativity always keeps things interesting. Every minute feels fresh and engaging, even when a single conversation takes majority of an episode... which happens quite often.

It is really quite astonishing just how entertaining it is to hearing the characters banter amongst each other. Araragi is a winsome oddball with a healthy amount of snark, it is fun just to listen to him all on his lonesome, and it is even more fun to hear him play off the other characters. The insanely guarded and moody; self-proclaimed 'tsudere' Hitagi Senjougahara has a sharp tongue and a warped sense of humor. The fact that it is hard to tell when she is joking and when she is not makes her all the more interesting to watch. In contrast, the class rep Tsubasa playfully teases Araragi (and the audience). Every character has their own distinct way of talking, as well as their own reoccurring gags and catchphrases, which is exactly what makes their conversations so entertaining to listen to; add to that Shaft's usual cleaver word play and anime in-jokes.

Bakemonogatari is just as crafty with the supernatural as it is with its dialogue. The show has an uncanny way to tie the characters' issues with the weird supernatural circumstances that afflict them. Whether it is an inability to cope with reality, family problems, or jealousy; the personal problems of the characters are connected to the supernatural in cleaver, and sometimes surprising, ways. A lot is revealed about the characters through their interaction with the supernatural, fleshing out their already likable personalities. The class rep Tsubasa, in particular, gets great character development in the final arc; revealing insecurities hidden behind her playful demeanor.

Possibly the most important factor to Bakemonogatari's success is the relationship between Araragi and Hitagi. Aside from being the focus of the show's opening arc, their developing relationship add continuity to the loosely connected vignettes. This prevents Bakemonogatari from degrading into a puddle of randomness the way many of Shaft's works often do. Furthermore, their relationship gives the show a nice emotional core for the audience, and it is gratifying to see how their relationship progresses as the show continues.

Aesthetically, this show has Studio Shaft written all over it. The minimalist and bizarre visual style is not unlike what the studio has done before, in fact it is kind of expected. This, however, does not mean it is any less entrancing to watch. The color scheme is constantly being played around with, and there is always something interesting to look at. The odd camera angles and quick editing fit the show's off-beat tone very well. Character designs are well detailed, especially concerning the girls' assets; and while the backgrounds are not the most stunning you will ever see, they give the show an appropriately surreal atmosphere. Like most works form this studio, the show does get a bit carried away with visual gimmickry, but does not ever get jarringly so. The sound design is splendid; it is very successful in setting the tone, and consistently impressive on its own right. The music itself is excellent; it is especially good at sustaining the mystery and mysticism that envelops the series, and does a great job in the more tense or funny moments as well.

With Bakemonogatari, Studio Shaft has crafted a very cleaver and highly effective supernatural romp. At the same time, retaining the off-kilter charm that the studio is so well known for. The show is equal parts deranged and heart-felt, creating an experience that feels unique despite the many similarities it has with other Shaft works. It does get too wrapped up in itself at times, but overall it is still a damn good watch.