Review of The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
Controversial. The only word that can accurately describe The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya. When the show first aired, it took the entire world by storm. Spawning many shows that tried to replicate its success and quality, Haruhi is simply a show that cannot be replicated. Story(9/10)- The first thing I noticed when I first watched this show was, I had no idea what the hell was going on. The episodes seems scattered because the episodes were not in chronological order. I had a hard time keeping track of what would happened and generally complained about it. It wasn't until I finished the show that Itruly appreciated the broadcast order. The show doesn't give a damn about the viewer, they are just dragged along for the ride, similarly to how Haruhi takes Kyon on adventures against his will.
Although Haruhi is marketed as the star of the show, it is Kyon, the narrator, arguably runs the entire show.The story is told from the point of view. He narrates sarcastically, usually mocking the various absurdities that arise due to Haruhi and The "SOS Brigade." shenanigans. Comedy is the strongest point in this show. When it comes to the wit, cleverness, and consistancy of the jokes, you will find no anime that can rival Haruhi. The 'Falcon Kick,' and the Phoenix Wright references are the funniest moments in the show. The show has unlimited replay value. I enjoyed watching the show the second time, as much as I did the first.
Art(9/10)- The animation in this show is some of the greatest out there, bar none. There is not one person, not even people who hate this show, who can deny how beautiful it is. All the scenes are fluid, lavish, and vibrant. There is never a dip in quality. The directing of the show is a bit wonky, but so is the show itself. A lot of of unusual camera angles and design choices catch the eye of the viewer. This cements KyoAni as one of the greatest studios out of there production wise.
Sound(7/10)- The soundtrack did not really stick out aside from a few tracks. You have the addicting ed "Hare Hare Yukai," that spawned thousands of internet videos. Then you have the OP "Bouken Desho Desho?" which gives you the feeling of adventure. Other than those tracks, I can't remember anything else that resonated with me.
Character(9/10)- Although Kyon is the star of the show, one cannot deny Haruhi's insurmountable presence on screen. She dominates every scene she is in, with her controlling, eccentric presence. The best thing is she never changes. There is no overly dramatic backstory, or twist that changes her entire personality, she maintains her personality. The rest of the cast, Yuki(an Alien), Mikuru(A Time traveller) and Koizumi(An Esper) are not slacks either. Their behaviors often make Kyon's remarks more funnier.
The best part of this show has to be Kyon and Haruhi's love/hate relationship. When Haruhi's plans go too far, Kyon is there to return balance, both literally and figuratively to the world. Although Kyon disagrees with almost everything she does, he is drawn to her. They both have a strong bond of loyalty, one that can never be broken. It is their complex relationship that can set this show apart from others.
We people look back at how anime was 10 years ago, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya will undoubtedly be mentioned as one of the pioneers of modern anime. Beautiful visuals, hilarious dialogue and eccentric characters propels Haruhi to the honor of being one of the best anime ever released. I give Haruhi a 9/10.