So good, still can't wait for the next episode...

Written by ThreeTima on January 4, 2011 at 1:26 PM

--==I've written a small paragraph of my opinion here. If you wish to read the more detailed version below, then be my guest. However, be warned, though largely vague, there are references to portions of the storyline that some may consider spoilers==--

In summary, this is one of the best, if not the best, anime we have available and is still running today. This series sports action, rivals, humor, and courage. It is one of those animes that usually has you cheering, booing (all the above) and usually has you feeling good, and wanting more, at the end. If you haven't already begun to watch (and/or read the manga of) Bleach, then I would suggest you start. Some may be discouraged by the first couple of episodes. I will say to them, give the series a chance, watch and go past the first few episodes, I promise you, you won't be disappointed.

--==SOME MAY CONSIDER SOME OF WHAT FOLLOWS TO BE SPOILERS. THEY ARE VAGUE & DON'T REALLY GIVE UP THE STORY, BUT DOES SPEAK OF PORTIONS OF THE TIMELINE.... IF YOU READ FURTHER, BE WARNED==--

This anime was a bit of a slow starter. By that I mean I've had a few friends say "this is boring... blah blah" but was only in the first episode or two. Those that stayed beyond those first few episodes, or came back later, found that the series was much more involved and had action, friendships, rivals, enemies, and Humor. To top it off, most of them still watch it with me (and wonder when I'm getting the newest episode or the next volume on DVD). Some of them actually started collecting them as well.

All that aside, I love the relationship dynamics of this series. For instance, take Zaraki Kenpachi and Kurosaki Ichigo. Sure, the first time they met, they were technically enemies. But even then, they were more rivals, testing each other's strength. Even though they end up working side by side from time to time, they still maintain that rivalry status. Kenpachi coming to save Kurosaki (Movie), only because he still wants another fight with him? Though that may be true, I think Kenpachi likes Kurosaki more than he lets on, in a mutual respect for a warrior kind of way.

This series is riddled with many such relationships. I find it interesting that once-enemies, now rivals and "co-workers", of Kurosaki, all tend to flock to him, this kid with amazing spiritual pressure that seems to know no bounds.

This series brings to light the delicate balance between what is right and what is law. Many times in the series, a captain or vice-captain find themselves at odds with Kurosaki (or another character) simply because the law of the 13 court squads dictates it. I find it even more interesting that those close to Kurosaki (or another opposing character) find some loophole to help him.

Overall, this series (Manga and Anime) have a way of sucking your right into the story and keeping you engaged enough not to be bored, and leave you wanting SO MUCH MORE!!!