CloverWorks has delivered one of the best – and best bang for buck – manga adaptations of the decade with The Elusive Samurai. Read more
First Impressions
First Impressions – Super no Ura de Yani Suu Futari (Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You)
There are a few conceits you sort of have to accept in the interest of suspension of disbelief if Super no Ura is going to work for you. Read more
Fist Impressions Digest 7/09/26 – Ibitte Konai Gibo to Gishi, Mebius Dust
Not a glass slipper in sight. Read more
First Impressions – Thunder 3
It’s a bit complicated with Thunder 3, for any number of reasons. Read more
First Impressions Digest 7/08/26 – Nijusseiki Denki Mokuroku: Eureka Evrika (Sparks of Tomorrow), Sora wa Akai Kawa no Hotori (Red River), Koukaku Kidoutai THE GHOST IN THE SHELL
Each of these series are kind of a big deal in their own way. Read more
First Impressions Digest 7/07/26 – Toumei na Yoru ni Kakeru Kimi to, Me ni Mienai Koi wo Shita., Honoo no Toukyuujo: Dodge Danko
It’s no news flash to say Miyu is freaking great, but he really is freaking great. Read more
First Impressions Digest 07/05/2026 – Iwamoto-senpai no Suisen, Oni no Hanayome, Grow Up Show: Himawari no Circus-dan, Black Torch
I suppose if I added it up, the hit rate on these “Modestly Interested” wing and prayer series is probably about one in three or four. Read more
First (and Second) Impressions – Tenmaku no Jaadugar (Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia)
While I have my issues with some of its choices, the fact remains that Tenmaku no Jaadugar is a serious work. Read more
First Impressions – Uchi no Otouto-domo ga Sumimasen (Please Excuse My Younger Brothers)
Another of my sleepers here, although this one was more of a deep sleeper vibe. Read more