View Full Version : Gift ~ Eternal Rainbow
shaolinx
2006-07-21, 22:28
While Gift has not been licensed yet, it is produced by MFI, therefore we won't be listing fansubs here on AnimeSuki. See Removal of Media Factory Inc. Works (http://www.animesuki.com/doc.php/legal/mediafactory.html) for details.
Since it is "restricted", the following posts are no longer allowed.
Asking where you can find Gift downloads or torrents.
Discussing Gift fansub groups (past or present).
Asking for help downloading Gift.
Asking for playback help for Gift episodes.
These rules applies to fansubs (in English or any other language) and raws alike.
You still are allowed to discuss the anime, that has not changed but please remember to limit the discussion to the story. End of edit by Mod (xris)
the website just opened, http://www.gift-er.com/. looks pretty good, cant wait to see it. if u look closely in that picture on the home page, u can find nemu :heh:
eggplant
2006-07-22, 00:08
the website just opened, http://www.gift-er.com/. looks pretty good, cant wait to see it. if u look closely in that picture on the home page, u can find nemu :heh:
Haha! After all, MOONSTONE, the manufacturer of the eroge which the anime is based on, was founded by the former CG director of CIRCUS, owner of the Da Capo franchise. CIRCUS was also involved in the production of Gift, MOONSTONE's first romance-action game.
If you want to seem more D.C. similarities, check the Otome wa Boku ni Koi Shiteru (http://www.starchild.co.jp/special/otome/) site, as main staff are practically the same as D.C.S.S.
There has been a lot of complaints about the change in seiyuu for both anime titles. I suppose it can't be helped for Otoboku since it's a Starchild pickup, who will cast their seiyuus, but for the same thing to happen to Gift is a downer, especially since the likely reason was that the main character for the game was voiced by a eroge proprietary seiyuu.
Nevertheless, I'm looking forward to seeing plenty of bishoujo anime from the fall season.
By the way, the mods may want to consider amending the title when it starts airing, just so it won't irk the D.C. fans.
radister
2006-07-26, 03:16
Yay!!!!:p
i couldn't be more happier that there making gift into an anime :D
turely looking forward to when this starts this fall. long time fan of the game i hope the anime will do it Justices.;)
I really have a hard time distinguishing between characters now. For all I'd care they should just sort the girls by hair color -- like M & M 's, and just sell them by the kilo.
MOONSTONE's first romance-action game.
What kind of action is this?
radister
2006-07-31, 15:44
MOONSTONE's first romance-action game.
i Don't recore Gift having any action in it...:confused:
did you mean romance-Adventure?
blitz1/2
2006-08-16, 07:39
This looks interesting. I can't wait.
Cloudnine
2006-08-16, 12:35
Chisa~pon!!! ----------------------- `Д´)
´∀`）.....
That is all.
Does anyone know where there's a good scan of this:
Link (http://img215.imageshack.us/my.php?image=date21599lc7.jpg)
Radiosity
2006-09-22, 23:46
I really have a hard time distinguishing between characters now. For all I'd care they should just sort the girls by hair color -- like M & M 's, and just sell them by the kilo.
Exactly my thoughts on a lot of stuff now. Why bother to innovate when the same formula used over with maybe a colour change here and there will still bring in the money for very little work? Seems to be the case with most things now.
Still, I'll no doubt end up watching this, along with the rest, just to see what they're about and if they live up to the hype etc :)
Xellos-_^
2006-09-22, 23:56
the website just opened, http://www.gift-er.com/. looks pretty good, cant wait to see it. if u look closely in that picture on the home page, u can find nemu :heh:
I see sakura and nemu, but where is kotori :(
Radiosity
2006-09-23, 00:07
Does someone happen to have a handy synopsis? I'd be interested to know what it's actually about :)
I see sakura and nemu, but where is kotori :(
Riko (or was it Rika?) has long, pink hair if that counts.
Cloudnine
2006-09-23, 05:08
Gift short story synopsis
In Narazaki (楢崎町), there exists two unexplainable phenomena. One is the everlasting rainbow that hangs in the sky. The other is 'Gift', a mysterious magic which grants a single wish to the one recieving it.
Living in this mysterious city is Haruhiko Amami, your normal high schooler. He has lived here his entire life, his childhood, memories, and family are deeply rooted with Narazaki. Within that childhood, there was one girl that he remembers. His sister (cousin to be exact..), Fukamine Riko. Thought they shared much of their childhood together, they eventually seperated when Riko moved away.
Years after their seperation, midafternoon, the smell of sakura blew with the sea breeze. One girl descended from the platform. An old trunk accompanied her feet. She looked around that at nostalgic buildings. Facing the sky, she looked at the rainbow.
A familiar person appears in her eyes admist the falling sakura...
"Onichan!"
********
A long awaited reunion with his sister. Unchanging daily life with his childhood friend. A dignified classmate. A candid 'princess'. A mysterious maid. In a town where magic exists as commonplace, new encounters and changes begin to occur in his surroundings. For Haruhiko Amami, who will it be to recieve it his 'gift'?
While DC and Gift are similar on the outside, once you get deeper into the storyline, it really diverges into something much different and dare I say better than D.C...?
Remember that this comment is from a big fan of the D.C. series!! Gift is a great game in itself (top ten on my list for 05) and has the potential to be a pretty big hit, especially since MFI is backing it's production.
(´・ω・｀) Nyoro~o... don't judge a book by it's cover!
Kisuke06
2006-09-23, 09:19
Wow, this one looks pretty good! I'll be sure to check it out.
Radiosity
2006-09-23, 17:36
Thanks Cloudnine :) Looks interesting, I'll certainly be checking it out (I'm also a fan of DC, so it's not like I could ignore this if I wanted to :) ).
Looks interesting. I bet his "cousin" actually ends up being not blood related...
Well, since I'm a big DC fan as well I can't miss this.
Does anyone know where there's a good scan of this:
Link (http://img215.imageshack.us/my.php?image=date21599lc7.jpg)
http://img127.imageshack.us/img127/1879/akibakko11582484780919bj8.th.jpg (http://img127.imageshack.us/my.php?image=akibakko11582484780919bj8.jpg)
Some wallpaper.
http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/3997/desktop200608221156228433cx3.th.jpg (http://img102.imageshack.us/my.php?image=desktop200608221156228433cx3.jpg) http://img66.imageshack.us/img66/7059/desktop200608221156228451dv7.th.jpg (http://img66.imageshack.us/my.php?image=desktop200608221156228451dv7.jpg) http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/4897/desktop200608221156228467fi4.th.jpg (http://img115.imageshack.us/my.php?image=desktop200608221156228467fi4.jpg) http://img106.imageshack.us/img106/6286/desktop200608221156228485bu8.th.jpg (http://img106.imageshack.us/my.php?image=desktop200608221156228485bu8.jpg)
http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/9026/desktop200608221156228505ov4.th.jpg (http://img115.imageshack.us/my.php?image=desktop200608221156228505ov4.jpg) http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/1498/desktop200608221156228522ql7.th.jpg (http://img148.imageshack.us/my.php?image=desktop200608221156228522ql7.jpg) http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/2448/desktop200608221156228538qi6.th.jpg (http://img143.imageshack.us/my.php?image=desktop200608221156228538qi6.jpg)
Cloudnine
2006-09-24, 22:41
Looks interesting. I bet his "cousin" actually ends up being not blood related...
Well, since I'm a big DC fan as well I can't miss this.
Actually, they are blood related~ (keep in mind first cousin marriages are legal in Japan...:heh:)
Radiosity
2006-09-24, 23:56
I just found my favourite :) Whether I'll like her personality remains to be seen but I remain hopeful based on past experience.
Dunno her name, but the grey/purple haired one. I always seem to be attracted to the character with hair that colour (Alice in DC:SS and Tomoko in Canvas 2 are both favourites). Looking forward to this even more now :D
Cloudnine
2006-09-25, 00:33
Kamishiro Yukari is her name. She loves greeting people with her patented catch phrase, "Please call me Yukarin" (with an emphasis on ~rin)
Simply hearing her say that will make your heart melt ^^;;
Her personality is extremely likable. She carries a bright and gentle athmosphere where ever she goes, though once you get to know her you'll see the more straightforward and hilarious (tsukommi) side of her character!
Yukarin is defintely one of my favorite characters second only to Chisa~~
Of course, she's a cousin, sorry. I got confused by the bit which stated that they have a brother-sister like relationship...
DragoonKain3
2006-09-25, 05:31
Just wondering, but who's Kirino? More importantly, why does she seem to be pictured with Riko all the time? Is it because she's the Sakura to this show's Nemu (which is Riko), or is it because they're close friends or something?
And who's the childhood friend in the synopsis? Even though Riko technically counts as one, there seems to be another. ^^;
Cloudnine
2006-09-25, 11:16
Just wondering, but who's Kirino? More importantly, why does she seem to be pictured with Riko all the time? Is it because she's the Sakura to this show's Nemu (which is Riko), or is it because they're close friends or something?
And who's the childhood friend in the synopsis? Even though Riko technically counts as one, there seems to be another. ^^;
Konosaka Kirino (木之坂霧乃)
http://img234.imageshack.us/img234/4478/c117941chara2yr4.jpg
Kirino is the childhood friend that lives next door. Despite not being blood related, Amami treats her as a sort of little sister, solely because of the fact that she's one year younger than him. Kirino and Amami have the longest relationship and her feelings toward him are very obvious. However, during their childhood, Riko moves in and the relationship between them splits into an awkward triangle.
Personality wise, she's quite opposite of Sakura/nemu character type (DC comparisions don't work here =p). Kirino is usually shy towards the opposite sex, with the exception of Amami. However, her kind and graceful nature tend to attract them in swarms ^^;;
It looks promising. Let's see when the first ep. come out.
Personality wise, she's quite opposite of Sakura/nemu character type (DC comparisions don't work here =p). Kirino is usually shy towards the opposite sex, with the exception of Amami. However, her kind and graceful nature tend to attract them in swarms ^^;;
OK. Now I already know my favourite chracter. :)
^^That's exactly my type...
relentlessflame
2006-10-05, 22:53
Well, first episode - it's a classic setup (close friends with girl-next-door, childhood friend/sweetheart(?) comes home, classic romantic triangle) but with a magical twist that definitely reminds me of something from Circus (for reasons already well-established). The basic plot setup was basically exactly what Cloudnine posted earlier in his short story synopsis; they used an illustration (other people in the school) to explain the rainbow and the concept of the "Gift". Like the magical sakura tree of Da Capo, you can bet on it playing a key symbolic role in the plot (heck, the rainbow's even in the title!) Unlike a lot of the other bishoujo anime of this season, I'd definitely say that they're setting this one up for a bit of a romantic conflict/choice. It seems that this show is scheduled for only 13 episodes (though I can't find confirmation), and I could see how the pacing of the first episode would agree with that; they've basically set up everything you need to know already. In any case, as with all these first episodes, it's enough to keep me interested in seeing where they go with it.
Cloudnine
2006-10-05, 23:43
Haruhiko, is as always, an oddball ^^ The fact that they stayed true to the game personality is huge brownie points for me. His lame jokes, crude behavior, and generally over the top personality makes him one of the coolest guys around!
http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/725/5pz0.jpg
Voted #1 guy you want as a drinking buddy.
Overall... unnnn... definately mixed feelings about this one. The majority of the original VA cast are different. Fanservice is considerably over the top. All the main heroines there were introduced (where's Yukarin~! ヽ(`Д´)ﾉ) already had their panty shot. The worst part is that over 15 minutes was used to solve a love quarrel between some unknown tennis couple...
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/9572/1oz4.jpg
You'll never see these two characters again.
Still, despite all my complaints, I really enjoyed watching the first episode. It will be interesting to see if they'll concentrate on the triangle between Kirino, Riko, and Haruhiko. Along with Happiness! Yoake, and Kanon, this is definately the season for bishoujo anime ^^
relentlessflame
2006-10-06, 00:10
The worst part is that over 15 minutes was used to solve a love quarrel between some unknown tennis couple...Yeah, I considered that too. I think the point here was that they could explain "Gift" to you (or leave you guessing), or they could just show you an example. It also provided an opportunity to flesh out the personality of our main guy just a bit. So, yeah... on the one hand, you know that our tennis couple is random, but on the other showing it answers a lot of questions about Gift that'll definitely play a part later on. So I agree - there might have been other ways they could have gone about it, but it was fine as a setup episode. It's all about where they go from here.
Village Idiot
2006-10-06, 00:27
Was I the only one whom watched the first 5 minutes and thought; "Am I watching Da Capo by mistake"?
relentlessflame
2006-10-06, 00:32
Was I the only one whom watched the first 5 minutes and thought; "Am I watching Da Capo by mistake"?Yeah, see the rest of the thread for snippets of the reason why; the original game had involvement from some of the same people who did Da Capo. Similar setup and character designs (at least on the surface), but different personalities and overall storyline. Yeah, though; it'd stand to reason that, if you like the one, you may also like the other.
Cloudnine
2006-10-06, 16:29
Yeah, I considered that too. I think the point here was that they could explain "Gift" to you (or leave you guessing), or they could just show you an example. It also provided an opportunity to flesh out the personality of our main guy just a bit. So, yeah... on the one hand, you know that our tennis couple is random, but on the other showing it answers a lot of questions about Gift that'll definitely play a part later on. So I agree - there might have been other ways they could have gone about it, but it was fine as a setup episode. It's all about where they go from here.
I think it would have been better to keep some of the mystery of Gift for later episodes instead of condensing into an easily forgettable sidestory.
They already hinted on where gift came from (which imo is the most memorable and heartwarming part of what Gift really is. They better do it right or it's tenbatsu!) and the conditions needed to fulfill gift. All that's left is to show what gift means to the main characters and how it affected them.
Is there an episode count for Gift?
relentlessflame
2006-10-06, 17:07
Is there an episode count for Gift?It looks like it's going to be 13 episodes... or maybe 14. The solicitation that's starting to go around shows 7 DVDs (ZMBZ-3081 to ZMBZ-3087) at 2 episodes each, with the first disc on December 22nd. I'm thinking that the last disc being 2 episodes may actually be an error, but we'll see.
Cloudnine
2006-10-07, 22:54
Something I completely forgot to point out~~
http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/5956/1fg9.jpg
I was pretty suprised seeing her in the first episode. Her name is Sena Asakawa, one of the new heroines from the PS2 version of Gift. It will be interesting what role she will be playing in the anime, though I have a hunch she'll only be a support character~
It looks like it's going to be 13 episodes... or maybe 14. The solicitation that's starting to go around shows 7 DVDs (ZMBZ-3081 to ZMBZ-3087) at 2 episodes each, with the first disc on December 22nd. I'm thinking that the last disc being 2 episodes may actually be an error, but we'll see.
umuu... sounds about right. @ 4,900¥ for each DVD, it's nothing new~ ;_;
relentlessflame
2006-10-08, 01:31
Ah, actually, the Amazon solicitation for the last disc (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/B000J0ZP1K) reveals something more telling. It seems that there'll be 12 broadcast episodes, and the 7th disc will have a bonus episode (not shown on TV) along with special features. In terms of extras with each DVD, it seems the firstpress extras will include a radio CD, jacket illustrations by the game illustrators, and a something called an "original message card".
relentlessflame
2006-10-12, 16:37
Oho... this is definitely the setup you'd expect. People who say there are setup similarities with Da Capo definitely have a point in episode 2, but it's a lot more direct. Perhaps that's because they've got half the number of episodes to work with?The main focus of the episode is of course on Riko's return. In addition to the flashback scenes which explain how Riko was adopted, and how Haruhiko chose to see her as a sister, the episode focuses on Kirino's growing realization that her "time is up" and that (she feels) she's not needed in Haruhiko's life as much any more. It's obvious from the gestures and tone of the dialog that both Riko and Kirino are well aware of each others' true feelings for Haruhiko, and though Kirino's taking a step back at the moment, I doubt she's going to give up that easily. There's just a lot of tension under the surface, and I can't help but feel that they're setting it up for an explosion. Of course, our male lead's still a bit oblivious to it at the moment (as you'd expect), but I think he may be starting to clue-in in a small way.There's something about the artstyle that I still find a bit distracting - the eyes and side-profiles are bit unusual - but its pretty much what you'd expect from a show in the genre. In fact, except for those distracting bits, I'd say that this too reminds me of (the original) Da Capo. The music from Hikaru Nanase helps too -- reminds me so much of D.C.S.S.! Oh well... it's all about where they go with it, and so far it definitely looks like it's heading for some dramatic territory.
Srin Tuar
2006-10-12, 21:50
Okay, episode 2 is in, and the only thing I can say is that I think this show *is* Da Capo.
The whole story is just far too identical.
Okay, episode 2 is in, and the only thing I can say is that I think this show *is* Da Capo.
The whole story is just far too identical.
Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Cause I haven't seen Da Capo, and I am wondering whether I should follow this or not. :heh:
Cloudnine
2006-10-12, 22:15
Again, the settings are similar to Da Capo, but the story diverges into a completely different direction once the pacing picks up (and it will very soon)
Don't throw it away just because it's similar to another series. Watch the first episode or two before deciding to move on~ ^^
Srin Tuar
2006-10-12, 22:47
Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Cause I haven't seen Da Capo, and I am wondering whether I should follow this or not. :heh:
its neither good nor bad.
If you liked Da Capo, you'll probably like this. (just like the negima remake, sometimes its fun to watch a new twist on an old theme)
so far the anime is very sweet, and I intend to follow it. (I'm following like 30 series now?)
Anyway, the main thing about Da Capo was
The giri-imouto wins. Yay for pseudo incest :confused:
If I were a betting person, I would bet for a similar ending to this series.
This show is even easier to predict for two reasons though:
Haruhiko seems to have fallen in love with riko at first sight.
Riko gets really jealous anytime he looks at other girls, or anytime they interact with him.
Kirino is jealous of Riko.
Aoie_Emesai
2006-10-13, 13:06
its neither good nor bad.
If you liked Da Capo, you'll probably like this. (just like the negima remake, sometimes its fun to watch a new twist on an old theme)
so far the anime is very sweet, and I intend to follow it. (I'm following like 30 series now?)
Anyway, the main thing about Da Capo was
The giri-imouto wins. Yay for pseudo incest :confused:
If I were a betting person, I would bet for a similar ending to this series.
This show is even easier to predict for two reasons though:
Haruhiko seems to have fallen in love with riko at first sight.
Riko gets really jealous anytime he looks at other girls, or anytime they interact with him.
Kirino is jealous of Riko.
DC overall was totally boring, but I really liked the artwork though. I'll just get this to watch it.
Gift short story synopsis
While DC and Gift are similar on the outside, once you get deeper into the storyline, it really diverges into something much different and dare I say better than D.C...?
Remember that this comment is from a big fan of the D.C. series!! Gift is a great game in itself (top ten on my list for 05) and has the potential to be a pretty big hit, especially since MFI is backing it's production.
(´・ω・｀) Nyoro~o... don't judge a book by it's cover!
It's DC all over again, hahaha ^_^.
Cloudnine
2006-10-15, 00:10
Originally in the game, Haruhiko and friends already knew Riko was coming back. In fact, Haruhiko was suppose to pick her up from the station. It's really sad that they decided to cut that out in the anime since it was one of the funniest and heartwarming reunions I've seen in game.
Overall, I liked episode two better than the first. Why? Because there's more Haruhiko humor bundled in~ Also Raleigh-sensei speech on adolescence gave me a pretty good chuckle~ ﾟ∀ﾟ）
http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/5508/5lr9.jpg
Haruhiko ponders yet another unsolved mystery...
http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/6778/6sj7.jpg
Having a harem isn't always what it's cracked up to be.
http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/1830/7gm0.jpg
Ah! Yukarin appears! While it's a short scene, I'm just happy she said her catch phrase "Please call me Yukar~in!"
http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/2205/8kc2.jpg
Even though they've been seperated for several years, Haruhiko and Riko still have a close relationship. Their conversation and interaction just overflows of familiarity. They just seem so natural together that it makes you wonder if they really did seperate. umuu~
Looks like the next episode will focus again on Riko and her first love... now who might that be? *hint hint*
Aoie_Emesai
2006-10-16, 08:22
Ahhh.. just watched it. Dissappointing... to say at the least. Started much like DC, the plot line is pretty much among the same line too.:eyespin: IMO.
ps: Supposeably the main girl is suppost to be the greatest beauty in the anime, correct? She has a strange hairstlye, though. It sort of gives her a scary apperarance, non attaractive.
Riko looks fine for me though, but I really like the way they potray Haruhiko in the anime, much more funnier than your typical harem anime male lead.
I'm not a game player, so I might be wrong.
This looks just like DC to me...
Anway, you might want to move this thread to fansubs...
RunningTARGET
2006-10-17, 07:51
Thanks to 4chan, I find this find incredibly funny.
Can you spot Mr mask boy him self?
http://xs208.xs.to/xs208/06422/1161060808503.jpg.xs.jpg (http://xs.to/xs.php?h=xs208&d=06422&f=1161060808503.jpg)
Its seems mr underwater ray romano went to this school in his younger years. ;)
Yeah, that is a very funny pic, although you would miss him if you're not careful, in the first pic.
relentlessflame
2006-10-17, 13:39
Hahaha - that's awesome! :heh:
Who is he???
*confused*Hakuoro from Utawarerumono - OLM Team Iwasa's previous anime project.
Kaioshin Sama
2006-10-17, 14:28
Well now I've noticed its Media Factory doing all of these shows. Now I know my mortal foe and its not Dr. Demento or Sideshow Bob. By the way are they at all related to M.O.E.
As a few people have already mentioned, this show is just Da Capo: Second Season all over, right down to the music done by the all mighty Hikaru Nanase (Yes, same composer for the two Da Capo shows.. the first episode also gives of a few Lamune feelings, though not at 100%.
Anyway, the first episode was a very nice watch. I've always been interested in the game.. and shall hopefully get around to playing it sometime, but until then this series shall have to do. As for Hakuoro.. Haha, i so didn't click onto that when watching the first episode - hope we get more like this in the up-coming episodes. :3
Kaioshin Sama
2006-10-17, 22:33
Post removed by me for its propensity to be seen as flame bait.
relentlessflame
2006-10-17, 22:40
Ladies and Gentleman, Media Factory, the Toei Douga of Inaction series.Umm... what are you talking about, Kaioshin_Sama? That makes absolutely no sense... :heh: For the record: Media Factory (http://www.mediafactory.co.jp/) - a Japanese media publisher (not an animation studio), with a fairly varied anime portfolio (http://www.mediafactory.co.jp/anime_title.html) (including comedy, action, drama, romance, whatever). I realize you like trolling shows you don't like, but it just doesn't work if it's entirely random and illogical. :heh:
Ladies and Gentleman, Media Factory, the Toei Douga of Inaction series.Media Factory also published (I have no idea what you have against the publisher, most people pick on the studio) School Rumble, KGNE, Gankutsuou, Genshiken, Rahxephon, Area 88, Burst Angel, Kamisama Kazoku, Kurau: Phantom Memory, Sousei no Aquarian, Twin Spica (yes, the shoujo show about a girl who wants to be an astronaut), and Vandread (among dozens of others) .... are you saying you dislike all of those shows as well?
EDIT: I just realized Media Factory didn't have anything to do with Lamune or Da Capo either - so now I'm really unsure what your point is.
Ladies and Gentleman, Media Factory, the Toei Douga of Inaction series.
Yeah.. whatever you say. :3
Kaioshin Sama
2006-10-18, 07:37
Media Factory also published (I have no idea what you have against the publisher, most people pick on the studio) School Rumble, KGNE, Gankutsuou, Genshiken, Rahxephon, Area 88, Burst Angel, Kamisama Kazoku, Kurau: Phantom Memory, Sousei no Aquarian, Twin Spica (yes, the shoujo show about a girl who wants to be an astronaut), and Vandread (among dozens of others) .... are you saying you dislike all of those shows as well?
EDIT: I just realized Media Factory didn't have anything to do with Lamune or Da Capo either - so now I'm really unsure what your point is.
Oh my god, I'm kind of embarassed. I didn't notice they were the Publisher. Fine they um, have poor taste in what they publish for the most part as of late....? Can I chalk this one up to extreme fatigue from assignment crunching, I knew somewere in the back of mind my they were a publisher but chose to ignore the glaringly obvious when make the post for some reason. Anyway, ignore the Toei Douga corralation post. Or if you want to, continue to sock it to me, because I deserve it this time.
But I do want to sound off on one thing. Out of that I can still only pick Rahxephon (BONES) and Area 88 (1985 more so than 2004) as ones I like. The mere mention of Sousei No Aquarian make me cringe as I see that as the ultimate low point in Mecha anime, but its not Media Factories fault really.
Alright, got to run before Xris catches up and slaps down a warning or something for perpetual off-topicness.
That's a shame - Gankutsuou is actually the best of those titles. Though it only has mechs for one brief moment of one episode - and it's the worst part of the whole series.
Yes, Gift also gave me a strong Da Capo vibe, but it's only the first episode - give it time. :)
RunningTARGET
2006-10-19, 04:40
Yes, Gift also gave me a strong Da Capo vibe, but it's only the first episode - give it time. :)
I dont think he even cares if it did turned out different. :eyebrow:
relentlessflame
2006-10-19, 20:26
Whoa!!!
Holy frickin' crap at the lack of wasted time! That's just nuts! We're only three episodes in, and Haruhiko not only realizes his feelings for Riko, but already confessed and got rejected because Riko was worried about Kirino's feelings. I mean, this is episode 3! So, now what? Is Haruhiko going to realize that, guess what, he does have feelings for Kirino as well, and then...... This is going to end in some serious pain for everyone - there's no way that Riko has the strength to live this lie. I'm sort of in shock. :heh: It's like they skipped the whole first half and jump right to the middle/end. We've officially diverged from the D.C. path, that's for sure.
I was originally going to point out that Riko's also a bit... I don't know... manipulative? But after that... for what? She gets all depressed because onii-chan doesn't give her the attention she wants, she implies that she wants him to kiss her, she runs away in the rain because she's feeling like he's being distant, she practically tells him straight out that she loves him through the interview, and then she finally gets him to return her feelings, and then... "But what about Kirino... I'm sorry..." What is she doing?! :heh:If you're only going to have 13 episodes, I guess this is one way to make use of them. Crazy!
Edit: Oh yeah, that was the other thing. I'm sorry, but that orange/brown two-piece combo that Riko wore was just plain ugly. And I wasn't a big fan of the black outfit either. Or maybe it's just me... :heh:
Edit 2: More thoughts after sleeping on it, since there's no sense in bumping the thread if I'm the only one watching the raws. :heh:
I guess, in retrospect, I should have seen it coming. His feelings for Riko were just too obvious, and it all would have been too easy and, perhaps most importantly, had nothing to do with the "Gift". I was thinking, like D.C., that the heart-wrenching part would happen after they got together, as a way to tear them apart, but this actually opens the door to a lot more possibilities for the "Gift" itself. I do think that it's most likely now that he'll start recognizing his feelings for Kirino, and eventually be forced to decide (as the end of every next episode preview haunts us with) "to whom will you give your Gift?" So yay to this show for diverging from convention. Things just got a lot more interesting.
Cloudnine
2006-10-21, 13:53
Ahh.. I'm so late in posting.. =.= (gomenasai, not enough time lately to keep up with new anime lately)
Wow~! Episode three was shocking to say the least. For these sudden developments to appear so early on is a very good sign on that they plan to finish it with a bang. Expect drama and loads of it to come~ D.C. comparisons bye bye! ヾ(･ω･)ﾉ゛
http://img279.imageshack.us/img279/9259/1xw2.jpg
Yukarin shot of the day~ or more like the only one...
They really did skip all the introduction/filler material from the game and jumped right into the love triangle. They're already getting into the heavy parts of Riko's story which I wasn't expecting to appear until somewhere in episode 8 or 9!
http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/6839/1nx1.jpg
Was the development between the the two too fast? Not really when you consider that their first love were mutual from the beginning~
http://img333.imageshack.us/img333/94/1bt2.jpg
One very key scene between Haruhiko and Kirino. What Kirino says here has so much meaning that it struck an emotional chord in me, especially being a huge fan of her.
Kirino "Riko is gentle, that's why."
Haruhiko "Then Kirino isn't gentle?"
Kirino "Maybe so..."
If you couldn't tell, I preferred Kirino's storyline over Riko~ ^^
http://img333.imageshack.us/img333/2434/1me0.jpg
Interestingly, enough, Gift is the only game to anime port airing now that's following the original script very closely (albiet with a bit of editing). For example, the confession from Riko was done on a much grander scale in the game at a idol contest during the cultural festival event. It was hilarious since you could hear the hearts of hundreds of boys shatter when she declared her first love. However, it was even more heartbreaking for Haruhiko to hear from Riko's words that it was all a lie. While the settings were slightly different, the feelings at that moment are the same in the anime.
I really hope that they continue down Riko's path, even though it's sad to see my Kirino getting hurt in the end. *ksun* Riko's path is the most original story of the five and fits easily into an anime adaptation. The role Gift also will play an important role here too, and seeing how they nicely explained it in the first episode (now I understand why they did the ministory) it shouldn't be confusing for anime viewers to understand the rules of Gift like it was for people who've played the game ^^;;
DanielSong39
2006-10-21, 14:02
After watching a few minutes of the raw...
This anime definitely has the potential to become one of the guilty pleasures of the season. Yeah, the show is unbelievably cliched, the animation is awful, and this story looks like one big train wreck - but that's exactly what makes this show worth watching. It easily falls into the "so bad it's good" category; it's cheesy beyond belief. Watching this show is like watching NASCAR - you're not watching it for the racing; you're watching it for the wrecks. And this show delivers in that aspect.
This show is something I'd denote as "superb garbage" (SG) - yes, it's a piece of junk, but it's junk as an art form. There is no way that people could try to produce something of high quality and come up with this. The key to "getting" this show is to realize that the show is intentionally bad - and that it's not all that easy to come up with something so laughably horrible that you can have a ball just making fun of the show.
Heck, I'd go as far as to say that this show, and not Kanon, is the ero-game conversion to watch in the fall. It's more fun to see people recognize the limitations of the genre and have fun with the premise - than to see a group of people try to produce the "greatest show of all time", and fall woefully short.
relentlessflame
2006-10-21, 23:00
Yeah, the show is unbelievably cliched, the animation is awful, and this story looks like one big train wreck - but that's exactly what makes this show worth watching. [...] This show is something I'd denote as "superb garbage" (SG) - yes, it's a piece of junk, but it's junk as an art form. There is no way that people could try to produce something of high quality and come up with this. The key to "getting" this show is to realize that the show is intentionally bad - and that it's not all that easy to come up with something so laughably horrible that you can have a ball just making fun of the show.The old saying comes to mind... "with friends like this, who needs enemies?"
Interestingly, enough, Gift is the only game to anime port airing now that's following the original script very closely (albiet with a bit of editing). For example, the confession from Riko was done on a much grander scale in the game at a idol contest during the cultural festival event. It was hilarious since you could hear the hearts of hundreds of boys shatter when she declared her first love. However, it was even more heartbreaking for Haruhiko to hear from Riko's words that it was all a lie. While the settings were slightly different, the feelings at that moment are the same in the anime. Ah, I was wondering whether it was a direct transfer from the game. Interesting... and good. I also find it interesting that they put the dramatic rejection before the "obligation episodes" (where they give screentime to the other main characters in the game - maybe they won't do that here?) - and actually, it's probably better that way. It gives the show momentum going forward, something that I feel a number of the other conversions are starting to slip on. We'll see what they do with it.
DragoonKain3
2006-10-22, 12:54
Just wondering, if this is an MFI production, then how come ASuki is listing it?
relentlessflame
2006-10-22, 13:08
Just wondering, if this is an MFI production, then how come ASuki is listing it?Unless there was a change in policy, I presume it was an oversight.
Just wondering, if this is an MFI production, then how come ASuki is listing it?
Yes, I'm wondering the same thing :eyebrow:
But since it is an MFI production, it shouldn't be listed on AnimeSuki (as stated in the first post of the thread).
I was just going to point out the same...
Episode 2 was pretty good, I can already see the plot turning out in many interesting and dramatic ways...
Didn't anyone find the bit where he said: "Let's go, baby"
a bit strange? I don't know why, but it jus seemed weird to me...
Oh, and some fanservice too! :D
Compare Image : Gift and D.C.(?)
http://vista.jeez.jp/img/vi6120761849.jpg:heh:
relentlessflame
2006-10-22, 15:15
Compare Image : Gift and D.C.(?)
:heh:WTH at the second-last one. :heh:
Didn't anyone find the bit where he said: "Let's go, baby"
a bit strange? I don't know why, but it jus seemed weird to me...Well, I'm assuming you're talking about that-which-we-can't-discuss-here. Sounds like a bit of a "creative interpretation" of the dialog, which can be fine in small doses. :heh:
DragoonKain3
2006-10-22, 15:39
Yeah I agree with relentlessflame. The second to the last one was seemingly out of place. Shouldn't it have been a picture of Mai from Kanon? I mean, I'm pretty sure she was the one that popularized the Kendo girl with ponytail archetype.
And yeah, that purple haired girl struck me as a Nagato-clone, though to be fair they're really all clones of Rei.
Well at least it seems 'Kotori' has the upperhand in this show, lol! Take that, 'Nemu'! XD
But being serious now, I'm a big sucker for love triangles. For Eps. 2, it seems that both Kirino and Riko are getting aware of each other as rivals for love, and I can't wait for the next episode because of it. And that's enough to make this my 2nd favorite show of the season, since the contender before (Crescent Love) isn't as dramatic as this one. As they say, conflict drives drama, and nothing beats a love triangle as a conflict IMO.
Still, the thing that really got to me was when Riko was cleaning the toilet. As someone who had to stay over a relatives house over a large period of time, I can understand what Riko was feeling then. Heartwarming, to say the least.
Cloudnine
2006-10-22, 23:14
Didn't anyone find the bit where he said: "Let's go, baby"
a bit strange? I don't know why, but it jus seemed weird to me...
That's just how Haruhiko is half of the time. He's sometimes act completely out of character that it just cracks me up~ Remember when he first greeted Chisa in the first episode?
*strikes deliquent pose* Yoroshiku!
http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/1733/1zq5.jpg
Ashlotte
2006-10-22, 23:27
Ok ill just go ahead and repeat like a recording what others have said...Its DC. :heh:
Ah but thats okay I suppose since I enjoyed DC abit, but at this point Haru is the only thing keeping me very interested since im not really sure what the guys gonna do next. The girls, while very cute, feel abt too copied from other shows atm. :p
DanielSong39
2006-10-22, 23:45
After 2 episodes...
Not bad; not bad at all. I really like the relationship between Riko and Haruhiko; it's refreshing to see the main coupling be so - comfortable around each other. The real strength in their relationship is that it works on so many levels - they can function as friends, as brother and sister, and as lovers with equal ease. Kirino never reaches this level of intimacy with Haruhiko despite having 7 years to catch up - which is why she is thinking about giving up on him.
With an interesting premise and a strong central relationship to work with, I can see this show upsetting Kanon as the best ero-game adaptation of the fall. And even it doesn't, it should gather an audience of its own - no question that it will be one of the more popular shows.
DanielSong39
2006-10-22, 23:57
Ok ill just go ahead and repeat like a recording what others have said...Its DC. :heh:
I think this anime has a stronger start than DC; but then again, D.C. Da Capo came on like gangbusters near the end. The drama in the second half of DC will be very difficult to top.
If this anime ends up being about as good as DC, I think most people would be very pleased. I've seen a few rankings among bishoujo game adaptions, and DC consistently ranks near the top.
One of the things this anime has going for it is that Riko is a very strong lead. She may not quite achieve Kotori-esque levels but she is definitely better than most.
DanielSong39
2006-10-23, 00:03
Compare Image : Gift and D.C.(?)
The counterparts to the three snobs in Gift can be found in To Heart. Here is a link to the picture: http://sweet-akari.net/toheart/characters/charokada.jpg
Cloudnine
2006-10-23, 01:05
umuu~ a pretty huge change in opinion from your first post, no? ^^
To quote myself from a previous post I made before the before the anime aired~
While DC and Gift are similar on the outside, once you get deeper into the storyline, it really diverges into something much different and dare I say better than D.C...?
Remember that this comment is from a big fan of the D.C. series!! Gift is a great game in itself (top ten on my list for 05) and has the potential to be a pretty big hit, especially since MFI is backing it's production.
(´・ω・｀) Nyoro~o... don't judge a book by it's cover!
DanielSong39
2006-10-23, 01:34
Well, that teaches me not to judge a show halfway through the first episode. The animation is really the only part of the show that is lacking; plot, direction, and characters are pretty much spot on. The show manages to cover a lot of ground in 2 episodes without rushing through the material.
And the Riko-Haruhiko-Kirino dynamic alone is enough to push this anime into the above average category. Hopefully the side characters remain in the background and we get DC-level of drama from the trio in the upcoming episodes. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Riko for the win!
That's just how Haruhiko is half of the time. He's sometimes act completely out of character that it just cracks me up~ Remember when he first greeted Chisa in the first episode?
*strikes deliquent pose* Yoroshiku!
http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/1733/1zq5.jpg
True...True...
He looks realy...ehmmmm...fu**ed up in that pic, I guess too many drugs don't do any good(I wonder if this has got anything to do with the Gift, he does sort of seem somehow attached to it) :D
He kinda seems to me like Danny Zuko from Grease. Acts like a total hard-ass sometimes, and like your average sweet guy another times...
DanielSong39
2006-10-23, 19:45
At the very least, this show ought to tide me over until D.C. II arrives - probably about a year from now.
Darklightz
2006-10-24, 00:06
An interesting anime,although not much happens yet except what seems to be a rivalry between the 2 main female characters.
One thing struck me though.While I don't mind a bit of fanservice every now and then,isn't she too young to have breast implants?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v403/darklightz/b1.jpg
Sailor Enlil
2006-10-24, 01:08
An interesting anime,although not much happens yet except what seems to be a rivalry between the 2 main female characters.
One thing struck me though.While I don't mind a bit of fanservice every now and then,isn't she too young to have breast implants?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v403/darklightz/b1.jpg
:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:
/me clutches his nose due to nosebleed, especially after the thought of the above girl not wearing a bra
For those that compared it to Da Capo, I asked if it was a good thing or not because I haven't seen DC yet. ;)
So, how is this anime? Cause I have seen mixed feelings in this thread.
Ashlotte
2006-10-24, 12:01
Well the show gets bonus points for jumping straight into the thick of it so soon and dispensing with the filler. ;)
As for your question LC...Ummm...Kinda hard to answer...The original was nice but not so much the second season but thats probably because im a kotori fan... :heh:
Darklightz
2006-10-24, 12:37
When did this become the Da Capo thread? lol
Anyway after watching the 3rd episode,it seems indeed they're getting to the main plot quickly.On a side nite they seem to have forgotten about Gift really quickly.I"m betting that the girl's bunny is a Gift,maybe from his brother himself
It's starting to get interesting now(after watching ep3)...
I don't think that the bunny is a Gift, since IIRC you can give it only once and to the person you love. I don't think that at that age they had such developed feelings for each other. I think that it was just a "normal" gift(with small g).
Jesus Christ would the OST be released tomorrow.. each track played so far has been outstanding.. *coughs*
Anyway, episodes 02 & 03 really shined a lot more then the first, though like we agreed - the first episode was there just to show us the power of Gift, and i beieve it was done perfectly. I'm pretty happy with how the romance side of the story has already been brought up as a issue (yes just like more Da Capo shows :3), though, i do believe Gift is going better at it.
Apart from them both having the same voice actors, Amami & Jun'ichi are so much alike. I can't see it being thanks to the same team who did Da Capo, 'cause both are not new stories (meaning both where games). Ar first i was finding myself just calling him Jun'ichi.. though i'm glad that stopped. & yes i'm already madly in-love with Riko.. she's already a much more interesting character then Nemu as the sister character.
I'm still waiting for Utamaru to appear...
DanielSong39
2006-10-24, 20:59
Maybe this is Da Capo after all...
No spineless lead male in this one! Cheers!
DanielSong39
2006-10-25, 02:12
I'm quite impressed with the score - the track alone is enough to keep me watching (and listening).
As for the show itself... it goes from being not-so-great at the start to above average in the space of three episodes. Looks like this show is going to be a success after all; loads of foreshadowing here - there's excellent potential for some serious drama. Bonus points for casting the two best girls as the leads... but why do I get the feeling that Kirino is going to go Sakura on us and produce a distorted Gift?
philip72
2006-10-25, 16:34
Well let me be the 245th person to say "LOL Da Capo 3 W00t !11!", which is cool because I quite enjoyed Da Capo.
In fact this seems to be slightly better than Da Capo and it looks like Kotori gets to be the sister this time, with poor Nemu now stuck as the friend.
Plus the early confession to get things moving was nice too.
"Da Capo done right" rather than "Da Capo 3" may be a better description of this show.
Well let me be the 245th person to say "LOL Da Capo 3 W00t !11!", which is cool because I quite enjoyed Da Capo..
Actually, you're one of the only people who's said that, people have only been saying its like Da Capo, not a third season.
Who cares which one...as long as it's got the main bit in it; Da Capo...sweeeeet *melts in happiness*
philip72
2006-10-26, 13:50
Actually, you're one of the only people who's said that, people have only been saying its like Da Capo, not a third season.
Oh... umm... Oh yeah, I meant 245th in the entire world, not AnimeSuki.
Yeah, yeah, that's what I meant.
Well, this can't be Da Capo.
I liked Nemu in DC, but I don't like Riko that much. I actually like Kirino much more... Hmm.. maybe I function under the effect of "first girl appearing with male lead" :p but what the hell... I already know how's it's gonna turn, seen DC, DCSS, the OP and ED are pretty obvious... Oh well... The male lead though seems much better in this one :D
EDIT: Just watched ep 3... Well, that was fast :p Damn...
relentlessflame
2006-10-26, 16:22
Okay, quick comments on episode 4, because I'm supposed to be going out... in short, a tiny bit obvious, but the tension's not letting up.
One of the side-effects of episode 3 is that every episode from now on has to carry at least some weight. And this otherwise almost stereotypical beach episode is no different. Whereas most beach episodes that happen this early in the show are light-hearted fanservice-filled fun (and this episode had its share too), the tension was just unavoidable. Maki's smart enough to see that there's some tension going on between Riko and Haruhiko, so he plans and manipulates the test of courage to put them together. But, Riko chooses not to get close to her brother, and so gets seperated from him (if only she had taken his hand!), only to eventually find him again with Kirino crying in his arms. That's what you get for lying to him and to yourself, Riko! Her line at the end, "I really do love Onii-chan after all", is mostly a realization that she's lying in the bed she made for herself - in other words, it's her own fault. By pushing Haruhiko away, she's necessarily bringing him closer to Kirino - that's what she said she wanted, but obviously isn't.
DanielSong39
2006-10-26, 17:08
There's something going on with Kirino; I can feel it...
She may be visibly stepping back, but we only see her interactions with Amami - we don't see what happened between her and Riko. There's definitely something going on behind the scenes.
Kirino may be cute and sweet and kind, but Amami's friend said it best... one can't be indulgent in love. Looks like we will see another Nemu vs. Sakura battle after all!
Yea like alot of people have been saying I'm getting alot of Da Capo vibes from this show. I did enjoy DC so that can be considered a godo thing for me, but not so much DC 2 though. So far im a Riko fan atm.
Hmm, i would assume most of you guys have seen Shuffle. Kirino is like giving me vibes of Kaede, I just have a feeling she will sometime down the road will explode and do something psycho like using the "Gift" to wish something crazy. Then again that can be like DC too since Sakura wished for that one thing and Nemu got all messed up haha.
Anyways go RIKO!!
relentlessflame
2006-10-26, 20:58
There's something going on with Kirino; I can feel it...
She may be visibly stepping back, but we only see her interactions with Amami - we don't see what happened between her and Riko. There's definitely something going on behind the scenes.I'm assuming you're talking about up to episode 3? Without an indicator, it's hard to know what context you're speaking in. In any case, this isn't really a spoiler, but they do start revealing some of that in episode 4, little by little, starting with one brief (but important) flashback scene. I agree that this is one of the things the show has been hinting at very strongly.
DanielSong39
2006-10-26, 22:28
Trying to imagine Kirino with a boxcutter...
Nah, can't do it.
Wow, that was fast. Way faster than I expected it to be. I mean...
From the first half of the third ep, obviously I knew something was going to happen, when his friend told him that they are not real siblings, and they are just a man and woman, but I did not expect Amami to confess so soon. Looks like we are already on the roller coaster ride, but I am guessing this series only has 12-14ish episodes, so they can't just stroll along and afford filler-like episodes.
So far, things have been happening in a flash, almost at a breakneck pace. First ep introduces gift, second ep gives you the character background, then third ep we already are on with the main dish. Looks promising so far. Everything looks very good except the art, but even that is not that bad. I can tolerate that.
Trying to imagine Kirino with a boxcutter...
Nah, can't do it.
Good, 'cause there's no reason at all for you to think that way.
philip72
2006-10-27, 11:48
Since were all comparing this show to others; I'll just say that for some reason the latter half of episode 3 gave me a Kimi ga Nozomu Eien vibe.
It'd be fun if Kirino gained the Kaede template :D Tragedy tragedy, and I hope this time no unrealistic revelation happens either. Heads will roll :p
DanielSong39
2006-10-27, 13:09
In any case, it's nice to see Kirino get some development - she turns out to be more than a Konomi clone after all.
Ep 4:
Hmm, the thing that bothered me the most was the art. It's quite inconsistent. When they show scenes of flashbacks to their youth, it looks great, but once we get back to reality, I still find the two main leads' drawing to be inconsistent: sometimes it looks decent, sometimes it looks kind of odd.
But other than that, we are moving along, the story is moving at a pretty good pace. There are still many episodes left, and so far there is very little wasted, so that's always good to see.
WTF was that up with all the naked people in the bushes?!
*laughter*
Edo was classic in this episode, and its about god damn time we got to see that side of him. :3
It was pretty upsetting to see Riko in that state at the end of the episode.. i don't really see it as being her fault, she just wasen't 100% clear on her feelings at a time. I hope that situation can be cleared up before anything bad happens.
Also, the music is still rocking my socks.
shermanramni
2006-10-31, 18:28
It was pretty upsetting to see Riko in that state at the end of the episode.. i don't really see it as being her fault, she just wasen't 100% clear on her feelings at a time. I hope that situation can be cleared up before anything bad happens.
It won't clear up, you can count on that. I'm prettyy sure there's a lot more of angst and tears waiting those three.
DanielSong39
2006-10-31, 20:29
Some thoughts:
- Despite some obvious similarities, Edo is no Suginami - he's actually helpful. He tries to get the two leads together, and also played a large part in solving the "Gift" issue in the first episode.
- Chisa looks like the frontrunner for the "best comic relief" award. Looking forward to more of her mayhem, and future interactions with Edo. But how long will it take her to figure out that no one is being fooled by her "disguise"?
- Yuri-san - the girl who is possessive of Rinka - is easily the most annoying character so far. Kinda spoiled Episode 4 for me.
- As for Kirino, looks like she is more than a cute, innocent underclassman after all... it looks like she is being very sneaky in her pursuit of Haruhiko. Not sure whether we'll see the boxcutter or someone coughing up sakura petals, but we'll see the equivalent. I can feel it.
Edo is no Suginami
Of course he's not - not many characters shall ever make it to that all mighty hight that Suginami is at, same goes for Taishi. :3
Ashlotte
2006-10-31, 22:44
Some thoughts:
- Yuri-san - the girl who is possessive of Chisa - is easily the most annoying character so far. Kinda spoiled Episode 4 for me.
Ill have to agree with you on this...She really started grating on my nerves about 5 seconds after she opened her mouth. Oh well I guess the series cast of characters wouldnt be complete without a utterly obnoxious one. :heh:
slidingk1
2006-11-01, 01:16
WTF was that up with all the naked people in the bushes?!
*laughter*
Anyone notice the hard gay couple also :twitch:
philip72
2006-11-01, 11:50
Yuri-san - the girl who is possessive of Chisa - is easily the most annoying character so far.Huh, and I thought she was cute and funny.
Just goes to show you I guess, everyone has different tastes.
Plus the more yuri the better in my books.
Anyone notice the hard gay couple also :twitch:
What timeframe? I seem to have missed it...
slidingk1
2006-11-02, 11:54
The Hard Gay couple ran out of the bushes too at the end of the scence after all the other couples ironicly enough they had speedo's on or something while everyone else was naked. Still cracked me up to see it.
Aaaaah! True...did you see those sixpacks, or were they eightpacks?!?! lol :D
4th episode turned out quite like i expected it in terms of character interaction. Not sure how i feel about Kirino atm, but i feel she has what it takes to become my most disliked character in the series if she is going to play the jealous type.
Riko... well, she is ok i gues. Tho why she rejected him at ep3 i dont know. Maybe she wanted to confirm her feelings?(lol, they are as clear as day on a summer aftrenoon). Or it has something to do with Kirino maybe? She did mention something about a prommise.....
Anyway we are in for quite an angsty ride imo. And a crazy idea how this will end spawned itself in my head - Riko is about to move away again, and Haruhiko will give the gift to Kirino but it will turn out incomplete, because in reality he wants to give it to Riko so he will go chase after her and make it just in time before the train leaves :eyespin: .... tho i bet im wayyy off the mark:P
fict_ticious
2006-11-07, 23:47
Just got around to watching ep 4 of Gift: Eternal Inces-I mean, Rainbow.
Hmmm, do all self-insertion eroge characters have a glasses-wearing, blue-haired straight-man as a best friend (the man gave me an Issei vibe)?
Kirino seems to be living up to her role, I thought that whole exchange with the watermelon seemed 'natural' (considering what he did the first episode). Though bleh, I'd like to know if she's going to take a stand on her feelings for her or be the repressed jealous type who runs away whenever her rival shows up to steal the scene.
Okay, so Riko really does like her Onii-chan. I still think it's creepy, and I care not about the technicality.
Yeah, and can they get into more about the rainbow and the gift (it's origins, what's it got to do with the "Gift", and can the gift make me a ninja?)
There is NO incest here. God i am tired of the term being spouted left and right ever since Canvas 2. And Riko and her Onii-chan are not even related, so where the heck is incest here? And yes, i know this post has a rather offensive tone but this topic of non-existent incest is starting to get to me.
Offtopic ftw.
Com'on...he was trying to make a joke.
In Skyfall's defense, we don't have the benefit of body language and tone on a web board, so it can be hard to tell when someone's trying to be funny or not.
Although same could be said in real life too. Some people seem to think that getting people confused on whether something's meant to be a joke or not is funny. Maybe it is funny, in a way, for them, but not for the other party.
Well i do apologize if it was meant as a joke, but - how often have you seen some one trying to pull a joke like this ?:p (on this message board anyway) On the other hand this board is full of people who shout incest left and right in situations where there really is no incest.
It's cause they really want incest deep down inside.......
*flees*
I suppose some do. And after all, it is something that isn't that common in animes(I know two myself, and they're not H), well I suppose that talking about the game would be more appropriate.
DanielSong39
2006-11-09, 14:39
Not only is Riko not blood-related to Haruhiko, she only lived with him for a short time. Remember, she was sent away soon after she was adopted, and didn't return until recently.
Plus, all the flashbacks make it clear that they never really had a sibling relationship - they were sweethearts from the start.
fict_ticious
2006-11-09, 18:35
*double post
*beleted
*blah
fict_ticious
2006-11-09, 18:40
Well, somebody got it. I know, not by blood, etc, but I couldn't leave it alone. Apologies, perhaps I should have made it more clear.
Well, back to the topic, I'm just somewhat annoyed with the whole "Gift"/"rainbow" thing. In the flashbacks, I kinda get the impression that the thing disappears(?). Does one need to born in the town to invoke the gift, or can I go there on vacation for some major hax?
Ep 05:
Rinka seems to have a thing for shoujo-esque manga, and it ends up with pretty hurtful consequences. Perhaps not the best way to tell a person "Hey, I don't swing that way". Ah well, seems to end well.
An ol' blue-hair's got a dragon radar, courtesy of capsule corp :p
It's cause they really want incest deep down inside.......
Oh ho, I initially read that as "incest, deep, down, inside..." - emphasis on the commas. Again, j/k (or am I?).
Hm, so ep5 deals with a miss-fired Gift again(and adds a few Riko x Haruhiko moments). Riko shows a bit of jealousy with the whole fake dating wit Rinka - was kinda cute :p Normally i dislike jealous characters but Riko somehow manages to be jealous in a somewhat sweet way.
Pacing of the series went down again....this ep did not have any major events. (other than removing Rinka from the harem i supose). Imo they should start working on the Riko x Haruhiko x Kirino issue if they want to resolve it in a decent way. I want to see some character development. I gues i would like ep5 more if the series were longer...i do not look too kindly towards somewhat fillerish episodes in short series.
(Oh, and Edo cleaning his glasses with the panties that were thrown at him was hilarious :P)
Edo using a Dragon Radar.. that was just classic. :3
Episode 05 was a nice fun watch - always good to see the many cute sides of Rinka. Yet again it captures the loving Da Capo feeling.. its hard to describe just what it is, but it was there.
Owaranai Destiny
2006-11-12, 09:09
Good humor in episode 5, albeit with a bit of fanservice. The whole thing with Rinka being an avid reader of shoujo manga was quite the surprise, though. You would think a person so devoted to learning her family's sword style by herself would have more...serious volumes collected on her bookshelves. :heh:
As for the love triangle development...Wonder if the blonde's going to play a part in it the next episode, especially since the preview indicated that she would be more involved.
That was hillarious, Edo cleaning his glasses with those panties.
relentlessflame
2006-11-12, 15:17
Pacing of the series went down again....this ep did not have any major events. (other than removing Rinka from the harem i supose). Imo they should start working on the Riko x Haruhiko x Kirino issue if they want to resolve it in a decent way. I want to see some character development. I gues i would like ep5 more if the series were longer...i do not look too kindly towards somewhat fillerish episodes in short series.Hmm... I sort of have to disagree a bit with the filler complaint. Even the "filler" episode wasn't really entirely filler, and provided the necessary transition in the Riko-Haruhiko relationship to setup episode 6 and onward. (It also provided more background on Gift that will certainly come back later.) Sometimes character development isn't "direct", but more subtle. That being said, I've rarely seen a show that guns more "straight to the prize" than Gift, even in its "filler" episodes. So... all that to say that I didn't mind that the "pacing went down", because it still contributed to the main plot. Plus, 12 (+1) straight episodes of nothing but love triangle angst would probably be a bit too weighty. So far, the pacing of the story (and the way everything is "building") is one of the things that impress me the most about the show.
This begins the second "arc", and it's interesting the way they did it. Haruhiko starts seeing the image of his mother whenever he looks at Riko (not unlike how he saw the image of Riko when he looked at Kirino in episode 1...). This is creeping Haruhiko out; is he in love with Riko, or is it just a misplaced sense of loss caused by the death of his mother? It turns out that this isn't entirely random, though, as photos show that, in fact, Riko looks almost exactly as his mother looked when she was young. This whole situation is causing Haruhiko to keep his distance from Riko, but when he finds out that his delusions may have actually been caused by a manifestation of Kirino's inner desires enabled by a magician's gift, he sets out to find that magician (who we know is Chisa) to try to solve it.
A few things came out of that: over the course of the episode, Riko clarified that her "I'm sorry" back in episode 3 wasn't a rejection (and that she can't keep seeing herself as only his sister), which would have been a setup except for the whole "you look like my mother for some reason" thing. But probably most telling was Haruhiko's reaction when he found out that the whole thing may have been caused by magic. Rather than hearing Kirino's not-so-subtle plea, or even caring about her apology, he totally dismissed her and remained solely focused on solving this issue affecting his relationship with Riko. At this rate, it's pretty much a "done deed" - at first, Riko put up a barrier (that had "something" to do with Kirino...), but she's past it now. Now Haruhiko is facing a barrier (that, once again, had "something" to do with Kirino...) that he's hell bent on breaking down by finding the magician (Chisa). Once that's dealt with, his relationship with Riko would be a sure thing - except neither of them have actually dealt with the real "barrier", and that's the situation with Kirino herself. Haruhiko's blind to it (is he avoiding it?), and Riko's now ignoring it (because she can't help herself).
Lingering in the midst of all this is Gift itself and that lingering question "To whom will you give your Gift?" at the end of every episode. We've now seen two examples: a reciprocated gift, and a one-sided gift; in both cases they emphasized the consequences of the lack of harmony and solved it by clarifying the misunderstanding. But the whole situation with Kirino isn't something that'll be simply solved by talking it through; even given the Rinka example (episode 5), it won't be that simple. At the rate things are going, Kirino's going to realize pretty soon that her time's almost out. They already dropped the hint that she isn't a "nice girl", and this episode drops an even bigger hint that she's starting to pin-point the source of the problem (Riko's return...).
So we'll see where they go with it, but there's definitely a lot of "setting up" going on in the plot. That sort of "it all adds up" feeling is something I really appreciate in a show.
This begins the second "arc", and it's interesting the way they did it. Haruhiko starts seeing the image of his mother whenever he looks at Riko (not unlike how he saw the image of Riko when he looked at Kirino in episode 1...). This is creeping Haruhiko out; is he in love with Riko, or is it just a misplaced sense of loss caused by the death of his mother? It turns out that this isn't entirely random, though, as photos show that, in fact, Riko looks almost exactly as his mother looked when she was young. This whole situation is causing Haruhiko to keep his distance from Riko, but when he finds out that his delusions may have actually been caused by a manifestation of Kirino's inner desires enabled by a magician's gift, he sets out to find that magician (who we know is Chisa) to try to solve it.
A few things came out of that: over the course of the episode, Riko clarified that her "I'm sorry" back in episode 3 wasn't a rejection (and that she can't keep seeing herself as only his sister), which would have been a setup except for the whole "you look like my mother for some reason" thing. But probably most telling was Haruhiko's reaction when he found out that the whole thing may have been caused by magic. Rather than hearing Kirino's not-so-subtle plea, or even caring about her apology, he totally dismissed her and remained solely focused on solving this issue affecting his relationship with Riko. At this rate, it's pretty much a "done deed" - at first, Riko put up a barrier (that had "something" to do with Kirino...), but she's past it now. Now Haruhiko is facing a barrier (that, once again, had "something" to do with Kirino...) that he's hell bent on breaking down by finding the magician (Chisa). Once that's dealt with, his relationship with Riko would be a sure thing - except neither of them have actually dealt with the real "barrier", and that's the situation with Kirino herself. Haruhiko's blind to it (is he avoiding it?), and Riko's now ignoring it (because she can't help herself).
Lingering in the midst of all this is Gift itself and that lingering question "To whom will you give your Gift?" at the end of every episode. We've now seen two examples: a reciprocated gift, and a one-sided gift; in both cases they emphasized the consequences of the lack of harmony and solved it by clarifying the misunderstanding. But the whole situation with Kirino isn't something that'll be simply solved by talking it through; even given the Rinka example (episode 5), it won't be that simple. At the rate things are going, Kirino's going to realize pretty soon that her time's almost out. They already dropped the hint that she isn't a "nice girl", and this episode drops an even bigger hint that she's starting to pin-point the source of the problem (Riko's return...).
So we'll see where they go with it, but there's definitely a lot of "setting up" going on in the plot. That sort of "it all adds up" feeling is something I really appreciate in a show.
Completely agree. Great episode. A lot of hint dropping, and more revelation. I especially liked the fact that everyone is so upfront about their feelings; none of the whole "I am too shy to tell you" and drag on the issue problem in this anime.
Hmm... I sort of have to disagree a bit with the filler complaint. Even the "filler" episode wasn't really entirely filler, and provided the necessary transition in the Riko-Haruhiko relationship to setup episode 6 and onward. (It also provided more background on Gift that will certainly come back later.) Sometimes character development isn't "direct", but more subtle. That being said, I've rarely seen a show that guns more "straight to the prize" than Gift, even in its "filler" episodes. So... all that to say that I didn't mind that the "pacing went down", because it still contributed to the main plot. Plus, 12 (+1) straight episodes of nothing but love triangle angst would probably be a bit too weighty. So far, the pacing of the story (and the way everything is "building") is one of the things that impress me the most about the show.
Im not saying it was a complete filler episode :p We simply did not learn much new...we allready knew what happens when Gift is being used and feelings of both parties are not mutual. Im well avare that there is character development here(Riko and Haruhiko more or less getting over their 'fight') and a fair bit from Rinka.
Note - i am in no way complaining that the pacing went down - that statement was merely a general observation, nothing more. I most certainly am not the guy that needs a lot of things to happen in an episode and i usually dont mind fillers at all. As far as pacing for Gift is concerned in general it is literally steamrolling towards. My main gripe i gues is that it basically is ep1 all over again. Yes, Rinka got a fair deal of character development, but i somehow feel that she will have next to none importance in the rest of the show. I might be wrong tho.
Or i might simply be biased because i want to see more Riko x Haruhiko stuff going on :p
....And i managed to spoil myself about ep6....gah :P Looks like the pacing picks up the steam once again. Looking towards to ep6. I definitely like the show.
relentlessflame
2006-11-12, 20:41
My main gripe i gues is that it basically is ep1 all over again. Yes, Rinka got a fair deal of character development, but i somehow feel that she will have next to none importance in the rest of the show. I might be wrong tho.
Or i might simply be biased because i want to see more Riko x Haruhiko stuff going on :pHaha - so the bottom line is that you're impatient! :p Seriously, though, I do see what you're saying. It's sort of like a pitstop or a sight-seeing stop when you're on a road trip; you're not getting any closer or any further to or from your destination, strictly speaking, but you still need breaks sometimes too. And hey, sometimes the stop might be memorable too. (My family went on a lot of road trips growing up, hence the analogy. :heh: ) I agree: Rinka probably won't play a large role from here to the end, so like the first episode's Gift story, it probably won't affect the rest of the story all that much. But still, I can't fault them for the transition; as you said, it's already almost steamroller pace on the whole. If they can keep it up 'till the end, then it may be one of the few 12-13-episode shows I can actually say made good use of the time they were given (I greatly prefer 24-26 episode shows for that reason - they can take more stops along the way and still have enough time to deliver a proper and full conclusion).
Poor Kirino :sad: Bleh...
DanielSong39
2006-11-13, 03:00
It's been a fun ride so far; looking forward to future Edo/Chisa battles and Haruhiko/Riko/Kirino angst. Like the pacing; like the formula they've come up with.
This show continues to surprise me. I never would've guessed that Yuri-san (actually Nami) would be redeemed in the space of one episode.
P.S. Any chance Edo and Chisa get together?
Hm, ep6 was really good. So, we learn that Riko did not mean to turn down Haruhiko with her "i'm sorry". (Ok, lets face it - we all knew that anyway :p ). So, Kirino stirrs up some trouble with the fake gift (pretty much the role i expected from Kirino in this show). What i would like to know is why did Chisa offer the fake Gift to Kirino... So, now Haruhiko is out to find Chisa(without knowing where to look) to undo the Gift's effect.
I really like the show, and Haruhiko is kinda nice male lead. At least he is 100% sure which girl he likes and is not leading Kirino on with false hopes.(Tho he manages to ignore her pretty much :P) Tho the matter with Kirino is far from resolved. Both Riko's "i'm sorry" and these haluciations happened because of Kirino, and this matter will have to be dealt with sooner or later.
I truly like the series and the fact that they are using the time they have up to the fullest. It's rare that a show utilizes it's time so efficiently. I really like the pacing of the show.
Have to admit, i was pretty much shocked when seeing Haruhiko's mother in those pictures.. all that was needed was a bit of hair dye. :3
Anyway - the story is moving along perfectly, not having 24/26 episodes was the perfect choice for this series. Its a shame the two Da Capo seasons couldn't have moved along like this one has.. but then again, they do have many more characters to go around with.
ROLF! The scene with Riko cleaning up his clothes, and him making that comment was just hillarious. Man, that guy can surely say everything the way it exactly is...
Now I can't wait till the next episode, but I'm still a dedicated Kirino fan :)
DanielSong39
2006-11-13, 19:32
Kirino is destined to be the lovable loser in this one; here's hoping that she will go down in flames rather than bow out meekly... I'm getting serious Sakura vibes here.
As for Haruhiko I'm glad that he's set his sights on one girl. Kind of like Jyunichi in that aspect...
She reminds much more of Nemu rather than Sakura tbh... Sakura and Kirino have very different personalities.
relentlessflame
2006-11-13, 21:35
Anyway - the story is moving along perfectly, not having 24/26 episodes was the perfect choice for this series. Its a shame the two Da Capo seasons couldn't have moved along like this one has.. but then again, they do have many more characters to go around with.I'm not sure I agree with that statement. Number of characters aside (and if you count the PS2 game, D.C. doesn't have that many more), I think this is really more a case of budgeting your time well when you don't have much to work with. When you have a larger canvas to work with (24-26 episodes+), I think the break-neck pace would really start to wear me down after a while (especially if it stayed focused on the core triangle most of the time), and the characters would become almost less realistic for it.
It's not that I'm advocating senseless filler (and, yes, there are some D.C./D.C.S.S. episodes that I felt weren't as good for that reason), but a large part of the original source material is more "slice-of-life" in tone, and that really gets lost a bit here. For example, they really cut the growth phase of the Haruhiko-Riko relationship to its absolute bare bones (a lot of it was all jammed into one episode), but when you remember that the end is already in sight, it makes sense (if they had to compromise somewhere for economies of time, that's a pretty good choice).
So, I'm not prepared to say that 12+1 episodes was the "perfect choice" for the series - who knows what they could have done if they were given a bigger time allocation and budget. But, they're making the best of it, and I give them credit for that. I don't really wish either series were more like the other.
Im currently downloading episodes 1-3...and I'm a big fan of Da Capo series. So...what am I expecting from this series?
DanielSong39
2006-11-14, 15:52
Pretty decent so far; it is similar to Da Capo but doesn't really look like a clone. Plenty of unique characters to keep you entertained, and the plot moves pretty fast.
If you liked Da Capo there's a good chance you'll like this one as well.
So...what am I expecting from this series?
Overall its not just a Da Capo clone. It has its own sense of style that makes it stand out. Not six episodes in - its just the musical score that keeps reminding me of the second Da Capo season. :3
Im currently downloading episodes 1-3...and I'm a big fan of Da Capo series. So...what am I expecting from this series?
Da Capo done the right way :heh: It's main theme is extremely similar to Da Capo, but it gets different along the way. Also the actions the main lead takes are not something common.
He allready confeses his love to a girl in 3rd ep
The story advances at a very good pace - you will not feel bored - they are making use of every minute they have. Simple, yet at the same time very enjoyable animation. I am enjoying this more than Da Capo up untill now.
Cheers.
After watching 3 episodes in a row, I've really enjoyed the mood of the anime. Well, it has a Da Capo aura around it with all those magic stuffs and look-alike characters:
+ Kirino looks like Nemu but acts like Kotori.
+ Riko looks like Kotori but acts like Nemu
+ Rinka reminds me of Tamami.
+ Chisa looks a like Sakura except she has that bird and not a cat.
+ Of course, there's the main character that looks like Junichi (2nd season not the first one) and the Sunigami wannabe.
-- Hmm, I like the 3rd episode...
When he confessed to Riko. Riko loves him so much and she was about to say that she loves him too....but that piano and promise thingy prevents her from doing so. Honestly, why does Kirino have to play? :upset:
-- For some reason, I thought I heard Ayu's voice from episode 1.
ShingoKun
2006-11-15, 17:40
http://img127.imageshack.us/img127/1879/akibakko11582484780919bj8.th.jpg (http://img127.imageshack.us/my.php?image=akibakko11582484780919bj8.jpg)
WOW!! thats one hella of a panty shot :D RIKO is my fav.
Episode 4...
Well, I feel sorry for Riko here..she getting tormented with that confession of her "brother" and the promise that she said she made to Kirino. Oh! and I think the big toll for her is when she found him and Kirino in his arms. Talk about bad timing.
Episode 5
This little date scene reminds me of how Junichi and Mako got out on a little pretend date/couple thing. It was pretty cute though. So I guess Rinka had her girlish side on her hmm? And of course...Riko was jealous....big time. Was that manga Rinka was reading on her room? If it was, then she had a lot of them...and she's reading them out loud too...with matching proper voicing for each character :heh:. Mmm, points for Mr. "Oniichan" for saving Riko.
-- First love never dies :heh:
Owaranai Destiny
2006-11-16, 09:57
Somehow I'm not extremely impressed with the series still, even at episode 6. It has kept me interested, though, and common sense tells me that the Gift will probably play an important part in the resolution to the KirinoxHaruhikoxRiko love triangle.
As for episode 6 alone...
Chisa certainly is going to get into a lot of trouble, that's for sure, when her identity's revealed. What puzzles me is how she gets fake Gifts and why she distributes them around.
Is it me or is it every episode you always see a panty shot of someone?
--> You know, I'm getting the feeling that Kirino is like Kaede. Sweet in the outside...something bad from the inside :heh:
I think that much was clear from the moment she said herself that maybe she is not a kind girl ;)
I think that much was clear from the moment she said herself that maybe she is not a kind girl ;)
Lol! Maybe she's not kidding after all. Maybe she threatened Riko or something :heh:
Not sure about that one. She is definitely kind (and kawaii), but who knows. Maybe she will turn into Kaede at some point...
I'm watching episode 5...
I guess Rinka was consulting her mangas about tips of talking to a boy on a date :) It turn out pretty good...in a way
Episode 7~
Hoho... So Kirino decided to make an indirect move, how nice. Though I'm kinda shocked that Haruhiko was willing to erase all the memories of his mother because of Riko. This sort of shows how much he really loves her...
And how funny was the bit where Haruhiko was asking Riko to cosplay for him. lol
Mmhmm, the more Riko resist her feelings to Haruhiko, the more she feels that she loves him. I feel sorry for Kirino...All she can do is watch from the sidelines.
john_sama
2006-11-18, 20:48
Kirino wished for something with the fake gift...and now Haruhiko is having troubles from its power...stupid gift..LOL
BTW the seiyu of Riko sounds like the seiyu of Ren in DearS....
good ear. because ren in dears is the same as riko in gift.
oh my god, dears was awesome.
Finished ep7
This was pretty unexpected. I knew the situation with the fake Gift will have to be dealt with, but this one took a much greater scale. Haruhiko gets points from me - he was about to erase the rainbow and all his memories of his mother in order to fix the situation. The guy is really in love with Riko >.< Must have been tough on Kirino to see and realise that.
Hm, so basicly we have an in direct confession from Kirino (and even in front of Riko 0_o)... kinda sad when you know she is bound to fail. Lets see what comes of this. (more drama no doubt). I also want to know what is the prommise between Riko and Kirino... tho i doubt we will find this out anytime soon. (or maybe we will, considering the pacing of the show and nuber of eps left). So next ep will be that field trip i gues... that would be an interesting thing if he would bring back the charm but ends up giving it to Riko 0_o... acrazy thought, i know. The writers would not be that evil, would they ?
Oh, and Chisa looked like she had entered SEED-mode at one point. She should really get away from that mother of hers for her own good.
I really like the show, it's rare to see things done this well. Can't wait for the next ep.
Owaranai Destiny
2006-11-19, 10:50
Episode 7 was rather interesting...Looks to be one of the best episodes in the series, I daresay.
Somehow this episode was quite good indeed, delving into some character development for Haruhiko, Chisa and Kirino. They just had to deal in the typical "What is true happiness?" question and the side character dishing out advice...Not that it's a bad thing entirely. After all, the Gift is about giving happiness to the person who receives and reciprocrates that feeling.
Somehow I feel sorry for Kirino. It's pretty obvious that she would never win Haruhiko's heart, unless she misuses her Gift near the end, something which I speculate might happen when she's in total despair. It remains to be seen whether she will turn all Kaede on us, though, since so far, the scariest thing we've seen is a confused Chisa. Those eyes are scary, damn it....She looks more like a killer than anything. Guess it's one of the downsides of this episode.
I can't help but cheer on Kirino a bit, either. She practically confessed to Haruhiko indirectly (actually, it's a little more direct than 'indirect'. Watch and understand.) Guess if she was in the same year as Haruhiko, she might actually stand a chance and be able to put up a fight.
Ganbatte, Riko! :p
Hm, one thought accured to me of what Kirino actually asked of Haruhiko
To me it seems its more like she asked of him to confess to her :) Wouldn't it be that way(sort of) should Haruhiko actually bring the charm she asked for? This looks like a more 'demanding' confession than your regular ones :p
Morikawa Yuki
2006-11-19, 18:55
Indirect or not, finally Kiniro is showing some guts.
She is easy to sympathize and hard to understand. I mean, she is sad that Haruhiko likes Riko, then becomes sad when Haruhiko and Riko fought (both times!). There is just no pleasing this girl.
blitz1/2
2006-11-19, 19:02
During one part of episode 7, Chisa looked a bit freaky. (I forgot the exact part of the episode though,)
Indirect or not, finally Kiniro is showing some guts.
She is easy to sympathize and hard to understand. I mean, she is sad that Haruhiko likes Riko, then becomes sad when Haruhiko and Riko fought (both times!). There is just no pleasing this girl.
:twitch: It's extremely easy to understand her. She is sad because Haruhiko likes Riko, yes. And she is sad when Haruhiko and Riko fought because it was partially her fault and she does not want to see Haruhiko (or even Riko, as seen in ep7 when she came to apologize) sad/depressed/etc. Pleasing her at this point probably would be down right impossible though, because she is destined to lose.
*BTW - you sure your sig is ok according to forum rules ? :twitch: *
Morikawa Yuki
2006-11-19, 19:37
:twitch: It's extremely easy to understand her. She is sad because Haruhiko likes Riko, yes. And she is sad when Haruhiko and Riko fought because it was partially her fault and she does not want to see Haruhiko (or even Riko, as seen in ep7 when she came to apologize) sad/depressed/etc. Pleasing her at this point probably would be down right impossible though, because she is destined to lose.
*BTW - you sure your sig is ok according to forum rules ? :twitch: *
I don't really know. What is the size limit on it? I will change it now. Edit: done! Thank you for notifying me of this :)
I understand where you are coming from. I would have wrote the exact same thing if I did not see the beach episode, when Kirino displayed mixed emotions about the awkwardness between the siblings.
I wonder what happens in the game in Kirino's route. Based on the CGs, it seems that Riko's route is laced with the love triangle tension and several CGs are devoted to that, but in Kirino's route, more CGs are devoted to piano.
Max sig size - 500x160 pixels :)
http://forums.animesuki.com/faq.php?faq=rules#faq_rules_3_1
Well, its understandable that she has mixed feelings - after all she likes Haruhiko so him and Riko arguing sort of benefits her(probably not really because Haruhiko is not interested in her in a romantic way, but it's not like she knows it), but they are still her friends and she probably would feel bad about seeing them unhappy, and would probably be ashamaed of herself when she feels sort of happy about them not being on the best of terms.
I imagine that Kirino is feeling rather worthless and alone right now. Haruhiko has been her closest friend (and object of affection) for what seems to be most of her life, and now he is just throwing her aside for a girl that he feels affection for.
Of course, this isn't what is really happening. Most people who are part of a close circle of friends who have romantic experience can probably understand. Your friends are still your close friends. But even if you have been friends for most of your life, your significant other is simply more important. Good friends will understand this, and it is still your responsibility to maintain these friendships in the midst of the romance. Although Haruhiko seems to be failing to do this with Kirino, I don't want to jump to any conclusions. Afterall, Riko hasn't been in his life for very long (a few weeks, maybe?), and so he is still in lala love land, as most people are at the start of a relationship. He will come down from cloud nine eventually, and start to pay attention to his friends (ie Kirino) again.
However, Kirino doesn't quite see it this way. Haruhiko isn't just her close friend. She loves this man, and has spent years spending time with and developing a close relationship with him. And now some girl enters his life, sweeps him off his feet, and accomplishes in mere days what she has been trying to do for years. Not only does she have to deal with feelings of abandonment from Haruhiko, but the other girl's quick, easy winning of his heart probably makes Kirino feel absolutely worthless.
Unfortunately, this is solely Kirino's problem, and Haruhiko and Riko cannot be held responsible for it. I think she realizes this, no matter how much she would like to think otherwise. Thus, when she finds out that she has caused discontent in their relationship, she doesn't see it as an advantage for her. It only makes her feel more worthless. Not only has she failed to enter any sort of romantic relationship with this man after all this time, but now she is actually hurting him!
Of course, like most heartbroken teenagers, Kirino has her friends to fall back on in times like these. The problem is that she is not ready to give up; she clings to denial. Haruhiko and Riko are being decidingly ambiguous as to the status of their relationship, and Riko has outright told her at least once that nothing is going on between them. Combine this with whatever the promise was between Kirino and Riko long ago, and Kirino ends up seeing a ray of hope that simply isn't there. The longer she chases after this false hope, the harder she is going to fall when all is said and done.
And as of the end of episode seven, she has set herself up for a particularly savage fall.
I really wish this show would spend a bit more time with Kirino. She really is in quite the mess here, but so far she has been primarily in the background while things go on around her. Granted, that reflects the powerlessness she probably feels in this situation, but I would really like to get inside her head a bit.
You nailed it perfectly :) That is almost the whole purpouse of Kirino being here - the nice girl who deserves better but never had a chance to begin with. (Kinda like Kotori from Da Capo 2).
Well it is not like Riko swept Haruhiko off his feet in a few days tho - Haruhiko has loved her ever since back when they first met. And Haruhiko has never shown any interest in Kirino in a romantic manner. Sadly, that is the fate of Kirino here - to create the drama and put herself trough quite and orderal because of her feelings, that i think even she herself knows wont be returned in the end, but still she refuses to give up.
Actually, it matters wery little that Riko said to her that she and Haruhiko are not like that - Its Haruhikos thoughts that matter at this point, and we all know what's on his mind. (And there is not much besides Riko it seems).
Riko's words to Kirino matter little to Riko and Haruhiko's relationship, but they certainly contribute to the false hope that Kirino clings to.
And Riko was never exactly around for a long time in the past either. Furthermore, any temporary relationships built between kids that young are fairly meaningless in the long run - any feelings that Haruhiko had would simply disappear as he ages, matures, and grows into an entirely different person than he was as a kid. It would be incredibly abnormal for Haruhiko to cling to a first love like that for all of these years.
Then again, this IS anime, where sensible logic like that doesn't stand up to the almighty strength of the childhood promise (my god I hate this plot device >_>).
So yes, Riko didn't exactly come from no where and sweep this man off his feet with minimal time and effort right out from under Kirino. But to Kirino, it must feel like that is exactly what has happened.
Morikawa Yuki
2006-11-20, 08:56
I see. So basically, Kirino is suffering from low-esteem and her ambivalent feeling of love and hate toward Riko. Her indirect confession is her last effort to change this desperate situation. I wonder what the resolution would be. After all, Kirino has claiming to some sort of hope for all these years since despite Haruhiko clearly demonstrating his feelings for Riko, Kirino still did not give up. I sincerely hope that something drastic, like death, would not happen.
I sincerely hope that something drastic, like death, would not happen
Nothing of that magnitude will happen to Kirino:heh: There is little reason to. I bet we will se a lot of tears/heartbreak and some angsty drama, but nothing like that. Things like that do not happen in these type of anime.
Things like that do not happen in these type of anime.
It could easily happen.
Its hard to say what'll happen from here on. With all the heartbreak we've had so far, you can easily tell that it won't all be happy from now on until the end. Even though at this moment in time, Haruhiko has no feelings of love at all for Kirino.. though something as to happen there for the heartbreak to start.
I dont think anything like death could happen :twitch: I'm pretty sure Kirino will go Kaede on us(nothing bad abut Kaede meant), but i really do not believe anything that serious could happen. That would require some serious breakdown from Kirino, which i do not think will happen - it's not like she and Haruhike were a couple before...heck, Haruhiko has no romantic interest in her what so ever. And - i do not think the writers would be so daring to pull something like that off :p
relentlessflame
2006-11-20, 12:21
It could easily happen.What are you saying? :heh: There's absolutely no reason to believe that actual physical death is in the cards here as an end-game result (though I could see the writers putting her in danger in order to bring her closer to Haruhiko one more time before setting her on the road to recovery - in fact, they could even involve Haruhiko's Gift here for an interesting twist). Like all co-dependant types, she's ultimately going to have to learn to find her own identity seperate from Haruhiko, and also to tear down the "shrine"-version of Haruhiko in her mind. That won't be easy, but accepting Riko's relationship with Haruhiko is key. And unlike a certain famous example, most people (in real life, or in anime), don't go "completely psycho", and I think it'd be a bit out of character for them to take it that far in this anime (just as it was in the other, IMO). I expect she'll just go through the normal five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and (by the end of episode 12 or 13, depending on what they do with the DVD-exclusive episode) acceptance. That's all IMO, of course.
Of course i'm not saying i want it to happen - its just that it could. Injured is easily the better thing to say at this point.. that has a higher chance of happening.
relentlessflame
2006-11-20, 12:55
Of course i'm not saying i want it to happen - its just that it could.Well... I guess I'll go on a "limb" here and say that, no, it can't/won't. Reason being that Haruhiko would use Gift before letting Kirino die (just as Gift was used by his mother to save his life). From a plot perspective, what would be gained by her actually dying? It'd completely ruin any potential happy ending, as both Haruhiko and Riko would be forever tainted by Kirino's death (as both characters would surely blame themselves for some reason). Remember, the story is about the power of Gift to grant mutually-shared wishes and to (ostensibly, at least) bring happiness. So, the ending will play on that angle. Kirino can't die in this story for it to stay on-theme.
When did i ever say that Kirino would die? I was just getting at the point that a character could die in this series.. then later on a Gift could bring that one back. It was just some random ideas i had running around my head.. i never said it would be Kirino.
Xellos-_^
2006-11-20, 13:25
I dont think anything like death could happen :twitch: I'm pretty sure Kirino will go Kaede on us(nothing bad abut Kaede meant), but i really do not believe anything that serious could happen. That would require some serious breakdown from Kirino, which i do not think will happen - it's not like she and Haruhike were a couple before...heck, Haruhiko has no romantic interest in her what so ever. And - i do not think the writers would be so daring to pull something like that off :p
Well Riko and Haruhiko could be going out on a date,ut while Riko was waiting for Haruhikio. Haruhiko runs into Kirino on here birthday and decides to buy her a birthday gift. When Haruhiko gets to where Riko was waiting he finds out Riko was involve in a car accident and is now in a coma. :heh: :uhoh: :twitch:
Three years later.....
That or give Kirino a boxcutter, a nachette or a hammer and nail.
Btw someone in one of the earlier post say that Riko looks like kotori but acts like Nemu. I disagree with that as RNemu was a lot more bitchier.
Three years later.....
...Riko wakes up and Haruhiko dumps Kirino who had slept with him while he was emotionally broken(because he was partially responsible for the accident) in order to cheer him up and goes after Riko and helps her while she is recovering her leg muscles. Then he takes the ring he had bought Kirino three years ago on her birthday and flushes it down the toilet. Kirino goes off to have sex with Edo out of the despair. When Riko gets out of the hospital Haruhiko is there to greet her. They both live happily ever after and have tons of babies. (No stupid books and/or children novels are being written in the process). The End.
*If you thought that this + Xellos post is a reference to KGNE (altered to a way i personally thought KgNE should have went) and is a waste of space.... you are absolutely right*
And indeed - Riko does not act like Nemu at all - in a way Kirino's personality is much more similar to Nemu(heck, even the situation they are in is similar)
Xellos-_^
2006-11-20, 13:42
...Riko wakes up and Haruhiko dumps Kirino who had slept with him while he was emotionally broken(because he was partially responsible for the accident) in order to cheer him up and goes after Riko and helps her while she is recovering her leg muscles. Then he takes the ring he had bought Kirino three years ago on her birthday and flushes it down the toilet. Kirino goes off to have sex with Edo out of the despair. When Riko gets out of the hospital Haruhiko is there to greet her. They both live happily ever after and have tons of babies. (No stupid books and/or children novels are being written in the process). The End.
*If you thought that this + Xellos post is a reference to KGNE and is a waste of space.... you are absolutely right*
I was kind of hoping for some Stalking scene, Fatal Attraction style :eyespin:
relentlessflame
2006-11-20, 13:47
i never said it would be Kirino.Well, that was the context of the quote that you were replying to. :heh: Skyfall said "Nothing of that magnitude will happen to Kirino [...] Things like that do not happen in these type of anime", to which you replied "It could easily happen." Now you can probably understand why I replied with "What are you saying?" :heh: Anyway, at least we've cleared up the misunderstanding.
Heh - sure can, and i am sorry. ^^;;
In any case we are more likely to see a sex scene here as some one's death imo :heh: (and the chances of seeing the former are pretty much on a negative scale :heh: )
DanielSong39
2006-11-20, 14:27
...Riko wakes up and Haruhiko dumps Kirino who had slept with him while he was emotionally broken(because he was partially responsible for the accident) in order to cheer him up and goes after Riko and helps her while she is recovering her leg muscles. Then he takes the ring he had bought Kirino three years ago on her birthday and flushes it down the toilet. Kirino goes off to have sex with Edo out of the despair. When Riko gets out of the hospital Haruhiko is there to greet her. They both live happily ever after and have tons of babies. (No stupid books and/or children novels are being written in the process). The End.
*If you thought that this + Xellos post is a reference to KGNE (altered to a way i personally thought KgNE should have went) and is a waste of space.... you are absolutely right*
And indeed - Riko does not act like Nemu at all - in a way Kirino's personality is much more similar to Nemu(heck, even the situation they are in is similar)
Or...
Kirino claims that she will let go of Haruhiko, but wishes to go on a date with him so she can be "sure of her feelings". Haruhiko rejects her advances during the date, due to a Riko flashback during a key moment. Later, when they reach home, they see Riko waiting for them... and Kirino takes advantage of that moment to hug Haruhiko and tell him that she loves him.
A dark moment ensues between Haruhiko and Riko as they heat up instant noodles. There, Riko tells Haruhiko about the promise she made with Kirino... and admits she can no longer deny herself. Neither can Haruhiko... and what happens next is up to your imagination.
Riko and Haruhiko are now a couple, but Kirino still refuses to give up. She ends up producing a distorted Gift that causes Riko to slowly lose her memory and cough up sakura petals. In despair Riko asks Haruhiko to sleep with her. We never see the result...
Eventually Kirino comes to terms with her situation, and the Gift is restored. She becomes a world-class piano player as a result. And we see Riko waiting for Haruhiko at the gate with a smile...
The End.
Anyone care to write up the boxcutter version?
Morikawa Yuki
2006-11-20, 16:06
I'll pass... I have not really seen Shuffle or Higurashi to really make it vivid..
When I said death, I did not mean suicide out of despair or anything. I meant that Kirino finally realizes the unbreakable bond between the two at a crucial moment and she sacrifices her life so that two of her best friends can stay together. I realize that this might be too out of reach, especially with gifts, which are the agents to gain happy endings.
Looking at the game CGs in Riko's route: Riko kisses Haruhiko under a tree; Riko slaps Kirino-chan; Riko looks up to see the rainbow, which seems to be disappearing; Riko cries in Haruhiko's arms; Riko with her suitcase wearing a smiling expression, Haruhiko and his dad seem to be bidding her goodbye...
they make me think of so many routes that the anime would take.
Also for Rinka's route. There is a CG of the yuri girl in a psychotic state, getting ready to swing her knife at either Rinka or Haruhiko. So there is actually boxcutter moment in this game.
Xellos-_^
2006-11-20, 17:21
I meant that Kirino finally realizes the unbreakable bond between the two at a crucial moment and she sacrifices her life so that two of her best friends can stay together.
So you want something like this
http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/2694/schooldaysblood2ac6.gif (http://imageshack.us)
mangatron
2006-11-20, 22:57
So you want something like this
Oh meine gott, you had to do that, you just had to LOL :heh::heh: You better jump on IRC so I can kick you, fish slap you and just plain irc stab you :heh:-> :uhoh: <^><:heh:
Anyways, I love this series. Maybe because I'm probably the only person who loves DCSS the most :heh: Now I get to see a "part 2" of DCSS :heh:
Once again, I pick no favorites of the girls. Because I love them all mwuhahaha :heh: :heh: It's good being single...and sad at the same time :heh:
I hereby claim and adopt all the girls of Gift ~ER~! You all can have the Junichi and megane Suginami :heh: :heh: Although, I fear if I go on about the girls I may turn this thread into something....horrible :heh:
Gift with an ending from School Days, could be interesting...
relentlessflame
2006-11-25, 02:40
I just have to cut right to the chase: I absolutely loved the way they did the confession scene. The music, the camera angles, the dialog, the voice acting, the sun's reflection on the tear drops... I guess it's the romantic in me, but I'm a huge sucker for confessions like this. Plus, I have to again applaud the pacing; they're leaving plenty of time for the story to resolve naturally. Of course I know that this means a lot of pain and heartbreak is coming, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm simply quite pleased with this show; let's see how they resolve the matters of Kirino and, of course, Gift itself. And I still want to know what they're going to do with that DVD-only 13th episode...
OMG! That grey haired teacher is an absolute perv!
Damn, I wish I could be like Haruhiko with his excessively cool poses;
http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/6126/snapshot20061125215941vb3.png
That was a pretty romantic moment at the end, and a very well done one indeed. I do feel really sorry for Kirino, since I liked her more as a character from the start.
But now on the other side, is some kind of Kaede going to awaken in Kirino? If yes, then the next few episodes will be fun, but if they keep it emotional I'll be even happier. *wishes for something really heart-breaking to happen*
Looks like Kirino gets the bad news next episode. And judging from the preview, she doesn't take it well. Not that this is unexpected. However, I think that some tastier drama would have come out of Haruhiko cruelly stringer her along a bit longer.
Now I am left wondering where this show is going. A full third of the series is left, yet pretty much everything with Riko seems to be resolved (love confession and her Gift). I suppose we will get an episode for whatshername amnesia girl. But that leaves three episode in which to do the Kirino resolution, and I don't really see how the show will be able to stretch it out for that long.
DanielSong39
2006-11-25, 18:09
Simple. Kirino will fight back!
Sakura from D.C. ~ Da Capo put up a heck of a fight even after the main couple was decided. I fully expect Kirino to do the same.
This is one of the rare shows that is absolutely spot-on with its pacing. Let's see what kind of plots Kirino has up her sleeve... can't wait to see her go down in flames.
relentlessflame
2006-11-25, 19:46
Now I am left wondering where this show is going. A full third of the series is left, yet pretty much everything with Riko seems to be resolved (love confession and her Gift). I suppose we will get an episode for whatshername amnesia girl. But that leaves three episode in which to do the Kirino resolution, and I don't really see how the show will be able to stretch it out for that long.I think there's actually a lot to resolve still. Everything so far has happened without Haruhiko using his Gift and that's is the question that every episode ends with. So it's safe to assume that something will have to happen from here 'till the end that'll force that issue (in other words, episode 8 is by no means "safe harbour" - it's just the starting point). There's also, of course, the issue of Kirino and her gift which, based on the examples shown and hints dropped, may end up being as much of an issue as Haruhiko's gift. So, I think this is where the "real story" begins - I think everything we've seen so far has been the foundation.
Owaranai Destiny
2006-11-25, 21:49
Looks like Kirino gets the bad news next episode. And judging from the preview, she doesn't take it well. Not that this is unexpected. However, I think that some tastier drama would have come out of Haruhiko cruelly stringer her along a bit longer.
Now I am left wondering where this show is going. A full third of the series is left, yet pretty much everything with Riko seems to be resolved (love confession and her Gift). I suppose we will get an episode for whatshername amnesia girl. But that leaves three episode in which to do the Kirino resolution, and I don't really see how the show will be able to stretch it out for that long.
That's pretty much it, and it should have something to do with the Gift, I presume, and Kirino for one doesn't seem like she might be taking things lying down anymore.
DanielSong39
2006-11-26, 01:48
Here's an idea, I think Haruhiko might lose his memory of Riko... as a result of Kirino's distorted Gift. It would be a way of working in Yukarin's backstory as well. This a rough sketch of how things may go:
Episode 9: Kirino is distraught. She makes Haruhiko and Riko feel miserable and guilty. Kirino invokes the Gift, which becomes distorted.
Episode 10: Haruhiko starts to lose bits and pieces of his memory of Riko. Riko is crushed. Kirino has several chances to spend time with Haruhiko, but feels guilty about it. Yukarin's backstory revealed.
Episode 11: Yukarin continues to play a role in the story. Edo-san and Chisa get involved as well. Kirino digs a deeper hole for herself.
Episode 12: Finally, Kirino admits defeat. It ends her friendship with Riko. Yet Haruhiko helps Kirino make her Gift whole - one that does not include Haruhiko. Haruihiko and Riko are happy together, with Kirino's piano piece playing in the background... the end.
Epilogue: Kirino finally plays a piece to the finish. Rinka and Nami practice. Chisa continues to fly. Edo invents more devices. Yukarin continues her search for happiness. And Haruhiko and Riko - are back to their usual antics, even as they realize that things have changed.
OK, let's see how close I am. Feel free to laugh if I'm way off.
relentlessflame
2006-11-26, 04:45
Hmm... on the one hand, I'm wasn't too sure that they were going to delve into Yukari's story any deeper than they already have (with all that's going on now, it might otherwise be redundant). But, on the other hand, if they do go the "lost memories" route, it'd make a lot of sense. The only question the theory doesn't address is who gets Haruhiko's Gift and why.
Wow, ep8 was absolutely great. I simply can not cease to praise this show about it's pacing - it is absolutely perfect and spot on. So far i would give the series a 9.5/10.
Haruhiko has scored gazzilion points in my book as male harem lead - seriously, this guy is simply amazing compared to all others. He is straight forward about his feelings and gives no second thought... he realizes that Kirino will be hurt, but so be it - he is not going to drag the situation out any longer than it is needed. He has got to be the best male harem lead i can remember ... he even sincerely apologizes about forgetting about the bunny.
The ep itself was good... Riko was upset when Haruhiko told the guys she is just his little sister. but later they clear that up. Haruhiko's jealousy when all the other guys talked about girls and Riko was also well done.
Comic relief scene with the 3 pinguins in the onsen - that actually made me laugh :P And the wall falling down... can't say i want expecting something like that,but i still liked it.
Haruhiko not buying a charm for Kiriono - can't say im surprised - i was pretty sure he was not going to... i thought he was going to buy one for Riko...oh well, he didn't, but we got something else in return - a kiss :D And we find out that the eternal rainbow is actually a gift left by Riko. (this makes me think tho... does this mean that the gift is incomplete - because Haruhiko was not avare of it... or i might be wrong and the other party does not need to be avare of it, as long as the feelings are mutual)
The confession scene was well done, and once again i applaud the show for this - we actually see the kiss before the last 5 mins of final ep. Now it seems like the real plot kicks in - the situation with Kirino, and what will come of it. I am ready to bet my behind that she will try to give a gift to Haruhiko, and ofc nothing good will come of it... and then there is the whole issue of Haruhiko's Gift... tho i think it will go to Riko ofc at the end of final ep.... so the problem will be Kirino and the trouble her Gift will cause....
Also makes me wonder how the rest of the people will respond to their relationship :) Oh, and i don't think that Kirino's Gift will cause an amnesia... (at least i hope it will not) - the show has enough similarities with DC as it is, and we don't need the same problem here:P I hope the script writers will come up with something original (+ they already used the 'messing with memories' theme in this show already.
Once again - i applaud to the wonderful pacing of the show and Haruhiko for being the best male lead out there.
i love this anime i always see the confession right at the end and then it goes off -_-
i think its going great so far
i just hope it goes perfect for haru and riko in the end
Morikawa Yuki
2006-11-26, 15:12
I see that people are predicting that Kirino would use a gift. Indeed, it would be interesting since the previous instances of gift goes wrong all allowed the couples to be together (1st episode) or be closer (Rinka and Nami) while this one would end in rejection. It would be interesting to see how this situation is dealed with.
Also, as Skyfall said, the fact that the rainbow was created by Riko's gift while by Haruhiko was not aware of it was also interesting to know. I wonder if the not mutual gift would go wrong...
Speaking of amnesia, maybe Haruhiko just forgot that the rainbow was created by Riko instead of not aware of it.
Looking forwad to next episode...
RunningTARGET
2006-11-26, 21:31
So the rainbow was Riko's gift? Wasnt there allready a rainbow that Haruhiko's mother wished to, to give birth to him?
Owaranai Destiny
2006-11-26, 23:15
Episode 8 is a damned set up for a tragedy later on...At least, that's what I might think.
Very good pacing of the story in this episode. We see both Haruhiko and Riko being awkward around each other whenever questions about the other arise (again). Just shows how uncertain one of them is, apparently. The kiss was a nice touch at the end, and the whole episode seems to give a heartwarming feeling at the end of it.
And thanks to this episode, I'd say Gift has far exceeded my expectations. What I thought to be an average harem anime with sappy storylines and cliche characters turns out to be so much better.
As for the preview...
Apparently it's a dip back into the sea of the past, probably pertaining to some promise made to Kirino. Apparently Kirino finds out about Haruhiko and Riko (title makes it obvious anyway). What's interesting would be what will follow later: Tragedy or more tragedy.
@ DanielSong39: Actually those are pretty interesting predictions. I would even say they might be pretty close too. The preview of episode 9, though, seems to hint more at a flashback of the promise made to Kirino, as well as possible reactions from different people to the new relationship between Haruhiko and Riko.
Xellos-_^
2006-11-26, 23:28
That's pretty much it, and it should have something to do with the Gift, I presume, and Kirino for one doesn't seem like she might be taking things lying down anymore.
here is my prediction:D
http://img157.imageshack.us/img157/7388/schooldaysblood11cv1.gif (http://img157.imageshack.us/img157/7388/schooldaysblood11cv1.gif)
Owaranai Destiny
2006-11-27, 00:01
Holy crud...I hope that never happens. :uhoh:, but a 'Gift' equivalent of something like that (only hopefully less bloody) might come up instead.
Ashlotte
2006-11-27, 00:22
What the hell are those things you keep using Xell christ...gonna give me nightmares or at the very least make it hard to watch any anime tommorrow. :heh:
Sigh...anyway...Im glad the show is keeping the forward momentum going. I was kinda worried there for abit that the show would bog down into the slow burn go nowhereness of most harem shows when the initial confession failed.
Now...time for the angst and real drama. ;)
Xellos-_^
2006-11-27, 00:25
What the hell are those things you keep using Xell christ...gonna give me nightmares or at the very least make it hard to watch any anime tommorrow. :heh:
it is the new wave in harem anime :D cute girls with big knives/machettes/boxcutters :D
got one more for your dreams :D
http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/2341/11334581943171eaeg1.jpg (http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/2341/11334581943171eaeg1.jpg)
PS. Never in the anime world will anyone ever underestimate the domestic goddess again.
relentlessflame
2006-11-27, 00:31
here is my prediction:D In how many threads are you going to keep posting GIFs of the same three bad School Days endings we've seen billions of times by now? It's totally and completely off-topic for this show. And now doctored Shuffle pictures? Come on...
So the rainbow was Riko's gift? Wasnt there allready a rainbow that Haruhiko's mother wished to, to give birth to him?I wasn't too clear on that at first either, but in the flashback scene in episode 4, Riko makes the comment that the rainbow was disappearing (which seems to imply that the rainbow used to come and go). After that, they make the promise to watch it again someday, so I guess Riko's Gift was that the rainbow wouldn't disappear until that promise was fulfilled.
Owaranai Destiny
2006-11-27, 01:23
I wasn't too clear on that at first either, but in the flashback scene in episode 4, Riko makes the comment that the rainbow was disappearing (which seems to imply that the rainbow used to come and go). After that, they make the promise to watch it again someday, so I guess Riko's Gift was that the rainbow wouldn't disappear until that promise was fulfilled.
Fitting for the title. I suppose it could be that the rainbow might indeed have been disappearing and Riko's Gift simply 'renewed' it for it to remain. It would pose a question, though: Is a Gift to a person eternal, or does it slowly dissipate when the giver passes away or no longer has those feelings in mind when he/she gives away the Gift?
relentlessflame
2006-11-27, 01:43
I suppose it could be that the rainbow might indeed have been disappearing and Riko's Gift simply 'renewed' it for it to remain. It would pose a question, though: Is a Gift to a person eternal, or does it slowly dissipate when the giver passes away or no longer has those feelings in mind when he/she gives away the Gift?I think that the power of Gift is eternal, unless it's given back willingly. For example, Haruhiko said that he owes his life to his late mother's Gift. In episode 7, I don't think they implied that destroying the rainbow would "undo" any of the other gifts retroactively (Haruhiko was going to use the fake gift to destroy all his memories of his late mother (including the rainbow), but presumably he would still be alive). But, barring an official explanation of all the "rules" from the game players, I guess we'll just have to wait for the show to explain itself. This is why all the Gift examples have been important so far.
Man some shit is going to go down and its going to be a big probably. Kirino is probably going to go all suicidal and do something crazy next episode.
Yea Gift is exceeding my expectations, though i came in with like slim to none to begin with haha. Besides the whole Riko/Haruiko romance, i do like Rinka. if it wasn't Riko, Rinka would be the best choice. Kirino ftl in my book.
Xellos, what's with you and your recent School Days obsession ? :eyespin:
ccardoso
2006-11-27, 05:16
The male protagonist beat a guiness: to be dumped in the third episode... :D
We need a top 5 confession's of all time list, 'cause i can easily say the confession from episode 08 of Gift would be first place. What an all mighty beautiful scene - everything about it right down to what was said made you move in tears.. i'm pretty sure i don't even have to mention about the music.. but i think i shall, Nanase Hikaru has set again brought her musical score to life. Each BGM played goes perfectly with that scene, even more so for the confession.. and yet again with Kirino's text message. I can easily see what series i'll be rewatching on Christmas day. :3
DanielSong39
2006-11-27, 11:42
I actually thought the confession scene(s) in Episode 3 was better; there you have the (implied) double confession, the flashbacks, Kirino's intrusion, and the eventual meltdown... far more dramatic if you ask me.
The scene I'm actually looking forward to is the Kirino rejection scene. Can't wait to see her response... though it remains to be seen whether she responds with the boxcutter or sakura petals.
It seems like a few of us would welcome if something really crazy was to happen...just for a laugh, it would be nice :)
Ashlotte
2006-11-27, 18:53
^ Crazy yes...blood bath levels of violence...not so much... :heh:
And it depends on what kinds of confessions where talking about...I personally always find the ones that fail more memorable and interesting as sad as that sounds. But as far as sucessful ones go that was one of the better ones. ;)
relentlessflame
2006-11-27, 19:38
And it depends on what kinds of confessions where talking about...I personally always find the ones that fail more memorable and interesting as sad as that sounds. But as far as sucessful ones go that was one of the better ones. ;)Personally, I think it's the fact that the show has both for the same characters that makes it work best (and makes it more interesting). It puts emphasis on the inevitability of it all (to go any other path would be a lie), which'll make the resolution even more straining. So while either confession was memorable on its own, I think they work better in composite; that's why I like the way they're threading the plot.
relentlessflame
2006-11-30, 19:57
Forgive me for the double-post... Episode 9 answers a bunch of questions, and sets things up for the big finish... Great episode, IMO.
As they return home from their trip, Kirino's there waiting. The awkwardness immediately gives the new couple away, and Haruhiko presenting the substitute souvenir to Kirino leads to Haruhiko confessing why he couldn't do it ("Riko's the girl I love"). Kirino tries to offer her congratulations, but it was obviously painful for her... Sometime later, you see her really start to lose it as she talks into a disconnected string phone... Accepting this won't be that easy.
Riko and Haruhiko then fulfill their promise to return to the spot with the best view of the rainbow, where she confirms what was said about her Gift last time. The reason why it worked, even though Haruhiko didn't know about it, was because their feelings were mutual; they both really wanted to return to that spot and see the rainbow together some day, and so they did. Under the rainbow, they once again renew that promise to each other that they'll be able to continue to return to see the rainbow together from now on. (And incidentally, Riko gives Haruhiko the cutest little kiss during that scene... aww...)
Some time later, you see Kirino at the piano continuing to struggle to accept the new situation, but not succeeding. She considers it unfair that Riko walked into Haruhiko's life and stole him away from her. She decides that she won't accept it, and goes to Haruhiko's house. Riko's conveniently away running some errands, so Haruhiko lets her in. Kirino acts all pleasant, acts as if she's accepted the new situation, and says that she wants to stay a part of Haruhiko's life; Haruhiko doesn't really have a problem with that at all, as long as she's okay with it... And then he starts explaining how, despite his not knowing it, Riko had used her Gift... This gets Kirino very quiet...
When Riko returns, the tension's already set. Kirino blasts Riko for having broken their promise - which is finally explained: As kids, they both recognized that they loved the same person, but promised to not use Gift to "sway" the situation. In fact, the promise was even Riko's idea... and yet, even though Riko's Gift wasn't really to sway Haruhiko's heart (and he didn't even know about it), from Kirino's perspective it's still cheating, and a promise broken. She also blames Riko for stealing her dream - that is, to become Haruhiko's sister. Since long before Riko arrived, Kirino dreamed of being Haruhiko's sister so that she could have a place in his life forever. Then Riko arrived and not only stole her dream of becoming his sister, but she's now also stolen what hope she had left by becoming his girlfriend. She demands that Riko take the Gift back and when Riko refuses, that's when Kirino strikes with the most potent weapon of all: she's not going to give up and, unlike Riko, she still has her Gift to use. Next episode preview: she uses it...
I think what I like best about this episode is that it's connecting all the dots in the plot exactly. Every episode we've seen so far is like a small piece in this puzzle that's gradually revealing itself; little hints dropped earlier come back to make perfect sense now. In other words, it's a well-constructed, thought-out plot that's internally consistent. And we the viewers have been reminded of the key to the ending in every next-episode preview since episode 1 (and the one thing Kirino didn't consider when she announced that she still had her Gift to use): Haruhiko still has his Gift too ("to whom will you give your Gift?"). So, onward to the closing arc!
(I still wonder what the bonus episode will be about, though...)
Edit: Added a few extra details to the summary. Oh yeah, and have I mentioned recently that I love Hikaru Nanase's soundtrack for this show? It continues in the excellent tradition of D.C.S.S. and Kagihime, and her piano melodies (fitting) and use of other intrumentation is really great (especially near the end of this episode around 18 minutes in - take a listen...). Can't wait for the OST!
Kaoru Chujo
2006-12-01, 02:00
So glad that Jason over at Anime on My Mind (http://anime.miao.us/archives/2006/11/26/975/) turned me on to this show last week. I've caught up and am revelling in the romance here in eps 8 and 9. And in the good voice-acting from Shimizu Ai (http://hashihime.atspace.com/Hashi_seiyuusB.html#ai), in particular, who seems to be growing by leaps and bounds over the past year or so. And Miyazaki Ui (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=38945), Tai Yuuki (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=13317), Koshimizu Ami (http://hashihime.atspace.com/Hashi_seiyuusB.html#koshiami) and Shintani Ryouko (http://hashihime.atspace.com/Hashi_seiyuusC.html#shinryou) aren't too shabby, either.
I think it was Tai-san's Haruhiko that turned me off this show when I watched ep1 and quit. I hate that male>female bullying style that is supposed to be affectionate. But it did set up his development. And I don't need the angst that I see coming, but okay. Nice little show -- especially for something that is broadcast at 3am. Not exactly prime time, lol. And nice post just now by relentlessflame.
It doesn't seem to have been mentioned (I searched his name in the thread) that Suzuki Masashi (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=19679), who did the overall series composition, did the same for Shuffle!, and did scriptwriting for Da Capo and Jigoku Shoujo. The director, Kimiya Shigeru (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=12774), directed the Hand Maid May OAV, but otherwise seems to have only done episodes, up until now. The sound director (i.e., director of seiyuu), Takakuwa Hajime (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=12967), is also comparatively new, but he did do Major, and Rakugo Tennyou Oyui, where I also thought some of the voice-acting was particularly good. Pardon me if these people have been mentioned before in the thread.
relentlessflame
2006-12-01, 03:09
So glad that Jason over at Anime on My Mind (http://anime.miao.us/archives/2006/11/26/975/) turned me on to this show last week.That's some pretty "qualified" praise (as in, caveat-filled) to turn you on to the show, but whatever works. :heh: All in all, while I think he's over-simplified the plot (and missed some points in the process - then again, "two sentence formula"...), I will agree with Jason that this show's greatest strength is "doing more with less"; I've been quite impressed by that.
I hate that male>female bullying style that is supposed to be affectionate.My first thought here was... no younger siblings? :heh: The saying in French is "on agace ceux qu'on aime" (we tease those we love), so I guess it's just one of those things... (I'm assuming you're referring to Haruhiko's teasing of Kirino.)
Yeah, the teasing thing is older sibling>younger sibling. It has nothing to do with male or female - Similar situations in other shows or manga with an older female sister usually include her bullying him. In cases where the siblings are the same age, it's used to differentiate which is going to be considered the elder one.
Though, obviously eroge inspired adaptations only rarely (if ever) include an older female sibling, but you can see the trope in other shows all the time.
holyman282
2006-12-01, 18:00
well that's quite realistic as there are quite alot of siblings that tease each other, but deep down are friends
fict_ticious
2006-12-03, 00:44
Hooo boy.
Gift Ep 09
Well, relationship between Haruhiko and Riko is sort of out in the open now, though they figure not talking about it would give them a chance to have people gradually accept it. Strange, it's as if their quality time on the train wasn't convincing enough (I know, anime physics). The whole "let's not tell dad yet, he'll figure it out" thing made me lol a bit. To me, this implies that they're going to be sneaky aboot it *wink wink*nudge nudge*.
Ahh, and Kirino. Being upset over the charm, yeah that's fine, but what she did with that string phone thing... wow. Typical childhood friend reaction? Surprised he doesn't love you - the one who had his back all these years? Westermark Effect?
Now she's bent on playing dirty, like what she accused Riko of. Cool.
I was a little bothered when Haruhiko remained (mostly) silent throughout Kirino's speech. I guess the issue between her and Riko just kinda sprung up on him, but I'd figure he'd have something useful to say (he's done well with those other Gift fiascos).
This episode made me think back to one episode from Kino no Tabi - "The country where people understand pain". The Gift seems to hold an ugly side to it too.
well that's quite realistic as there are quite alot of siblings that tease each other, but deep down are friends
Hahah, true. I sometimes team up with my older sis to tease my younger siblings, but she's done a fair amount of it to me too. But I think of it as this: people aren't very nice in the outside world, so it's kind of a way to condition them so they'll be able to accept those things (if that made any sense). Plus, if you see them pick up habits/attitudes form you, you can spring the whole "You have trained well" thing on them. It really pisses them off XD
holyman282
2006-12-03, 00:55
hmmm finally the show is getting to some angsty bits, lol Kirino is going to turn psycho Kaede i think except this time she'd have alot more power since she's using the gift! This is going to be awsome can't wait, also wonders how they are going to resolve the problem, noting that Haruhiko hasn't used his gift so probably he will use his gif t reverse the problem.
However I doubt that would happen as he is able to resolve other problems cause by the gift without acutally using his, so maybe to resolve the problem Haruhiko and Kirino heart's might just need to connect, even if it's not lover's sort of connection. Well this is only speculation so hoping for next episode!
Kirino is a psycho jealous hater... She'll probably end up going psycho and use some crazy gift to try and pull some crap. Kirino will end up making some crazy ass "gift" and some BS things will go down, but Haruhiko will somehow save the day and figure something out. In the end Haruhiko and Riko will live together. At least thats how i see it haha.
Go Riko & Haruhiko!!
DanielSong39
2006-12-03, 03:54
Now that's impressive character development... Kirino goes from being the weak link in Episode 1 to being the engine that makes this series go. Some of her scenes in Episode 9 were pure gold.
Looks like the creators swung for the fences in Episode 9 and pulled it off. And Episode 10 looks even more promising. Let's see if they can keep things going until the end.
:D The show just got interesting. Hurray :D Bad thing is, I don't see someone dying, or someone locked up somewhere bearing the grudge for ages to come, as would have been the more logical conclusion, but whatever. I hope they don't pull any "thank you Haruhiko, I saw the light now, let's be friends", although something tells me that kind of idiocy will occur, as it is bound to happen in all happy harem titles.
But since they went with Kirino, let the massacre begin I say :D
Oh yeah, and have I mentioned recently that I love Hikaru Nanase's soundtrack for this show? It continues in the excellent tradition of D.C.S.S. and Kagihime, and her piano melodies (fitting) and use of other intrumentation is really great (especially near the end of this episode around 18 minutes in - take a listen...). Can't wait for the OST!
Heh, i've mentioned a few times how Nanase Hikaru's music fits perfectly into a show like this - just like both Da Capo seasons. & just to let you know - Gift OST is released on the 24th of January.
Episode 09 played out perfectly, i just adore seeing Riko and Haruhiko as a couple. There on-stage love works perfectly, easy to understand just how long that loves been around between them. I understand that Kirino has a right to be angry with Riko using a Gift, but still.. she really is taking this to far. She needs to understand, and i'm sure she shall next episode.
relentlessflame
2006-12-03, 14:31
Bad thing is, I don't see someone dying, or someone locked up somewhere bearing the grudge for ages to come, as would have been the more logical conclusion, but whatever....The real question here would be: why would anyone expect that to be the "more logical conclusion" for a show about "Gift, a mysterious power that brings happiness by granting miracles"? They can't just throw away the theme. :heh: Besides, why would you want to watch something where the moral of the story is "through no fault of your own, you may lose your first love to fate and live forever in bitterness until you die"? Even depressing shows offer a glimmer of hope! :heh: So, in summary... as far as I'm concerned, you can keep your "massacre", and I'll keep my more logical bittersweet ending, thank you very much... :heh: (I fear for the type of show you and other like-minded people in this thread would create...)
reminds me of a scene in shuffle kirino also reminds me of another character in shuffle as well ^_^;
holyman282
2006-12-03, 14:39
lol indeed relentless hard to imagine what sort of shows they are thinking of where the person holds a grudge for the rest of his life, for me bittersweet moments bring a wider spectrum of emotions, from happiness to downright tears, the fact that if an anime was made where the character does bear a grudge for the rest of his life, the emotions are very limited, in fact the show wouldn't even make me feel sad cause it's just downright gloomy...
...The real question here would be: why would anyone expect that to be the "more logical conclusion" for a show about "Gift, a mysterious power that brings happiness by granting miracles"? They can't just throw away the theme. :heh: Besides, why would you want to watch something where the moral of the story is "through no fault of your own, you may lose your first love to fate and live forever in bitterness until you die"? Even depressing shows offer a glimmer of hope! :heh: So, in summary... as far as I'm concerned, you can keep your "massacre", and I'll keep my more logical bittersweet ending, thank you very much... :heh: (I fear for the type of show you and other like-minded people in this thread would create...)
Well, yes, I find it really strange when someone has invested so much on somebody can just accept the fact that he invested for naught and move on. Crimes have been committed for much less throughout human history, and it's pretty easy to imagine someone's mentality getting damaged at some point. I know many of you like to live in a utopia where everything resolves ok and everyone is happy or at least leave the past behind.
A theme can only justify a certain amount of things, so if you knowingly dare to invoke stuff that are on a direct collision with the theme, you must be prepared to sacrifice something. Yes, on many occasions like these, a character in the story must pay a heavy price and the audience has to realize that it is indeed a heavy price instead of brassing it off as "ah nice, they'll get over it apparently". There are a number of ways out of dark themes. Some are lame but logical (logical in this specific universe that is), some are outright bad writing with poor rationality, and those that I remember being successful (as far as character development and understanding of the psychological factors at work in a given situation) involve heavy sacrifices of some sort by one or more characters, and even then, the most we'll get is a bittersweet ending. And this : "Besides, why would you want to watch something where the moral of the story is "through no fault of your own, you may lose your first love to fate and live forever in bitterness until you die" has the simple answer that it happens, and most of the time when strong feeling are involved, this is the LEAST of one's worries. People have killed for this on many occasions, so I consider holding an eternal grudge a very nice way of avoiding further incidents. Now, obviously, there are many ways to lessen the impact, but thinking that a strong attachment such as this can be dropped with little fuss is delusional to say the least.
And I'm also tired of everyone being friends after events so fateful and dramatic as those. Plus, no matter what happens to the third person, it's STILL a bittersweet ending. After all, the couple in question does live happily ever after no matter what might befall the third character, no? Such is the way of things. There are many questions that could rise from such a bitter series, far more interesting and intriguing than "and we all were friends and lived happily ever after". If you ask me, they should have kept it in the romantic department, solving Gift mishaps while deepening a relationship and understanding each other instead of invoking the always successful but poorly used dramatic device of the hurt third person. Since they wanted to use that, I don't want to see another "let's be friends and get over it". Or should it just dawn on the third person that we should forget everything and move on? LOL. For once, I want to see a writer throw the full psychological impact of the characters' decisions upon the audience instead of chickening out or not understanding character interactions at all. Of course, since this must be another series of low aspirations in this department, I'm not waiting for anything more than everyone being happy in the end.
^ ZOMG wall of text :eyespin: Please add paragraphs so i can read it without hurting my eyes :nono: :)
relentlessflame
2006-12-03, 18:38
Well, yes, I find it really strange when someone has invested so much on somebody can just accept the fact that he invested for naught and move on. [...]Which of us is living a dream world, again? It's not a matter of "just accepting it" immediately (and neither do I expect it to be portrayed in this show that "cleanly"), but most people do accept it and move on. Reality check: most psychologically-balanced people don't go "psycho", don't hold serious long-term grudges, and don't kill people because their long-time crush doesn't return their feelings. Although it takes a while, most people do move on and find happiness in life. This has happened to me personally, and I'm sure it has happened to a lot of other people here. The cycle of grief, after passing through shock, denial, anger, and despair, always ends with acceptance. Of course the journey/time this requires is abridged in these shows in the interests of being concise, but I can't really call that a fault.
So, respectfully, I really don't know what you're on about, but it doesn't seem to have very much to do with the plot or theme of this show as delivered so far. This has never been about "the dark side of having your love stolen from you", even if you wish it were. If you love someone, you will want them to be happy, even if that means sacrificing your own selfish feelings. That's not easy to do, but it's what must be done. That's not "utopia" -- that's life.
Before watching episode 9, I told a friend that "in the episode of Gift I am about to watch, I bet Kirino is going to go Kaede and at the end of the episode threaten to activate the Sakura Tree."
And indeed, this episode saw Kirino go Kaede and threaten to activate the Sakura Tree! Man, this show seems determined to shit all over Kirino as much as it possibly can. Riko steals Haruhiko away from her when they are kids. Then she leaves, allowing Kirino to get close to Haruhiko once again. Then she comes back and steals him away again! And to cap things off, Haruhiko doesn't seem to care about Kirino in the slightest anymore, and Riko broke their promise! No wonder this girl has such a shattered sense of self esteem. I can only wonder what is next.
Speaking of which, I am rather surprised by Haruhiko's behavior in this episode. As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, throughout the series he has shown a considerable lack of thought or care regarding Kirino. This is a normal, understandable reaction for a guy who has suddenly fallen head over heels in love. But as of this episode (and possibly in 8 too), Haruhiko's head is no longer in the clouds. No longer is he simply ignoring Kirino, along with the rest of the world. Now his behavior towards her is of carefully calculated disregard, with no sign of remorse or distress on his part. While this calculated disregard is probably among the healthiest paths open to Haruhiko right now, I never, ever want to be friends with a guy who can so easily throw away a close friendship he has had his entire life without any signs of regret. I'm really pretty shocked that Haruhiko is capable of doing so.
As a final note, the confrontation between Riko and Kirino at the end of this episode would have worked a lot better if Haruhiko hadn't of been there. The fact that he just stood there stupidly, without doing anything, made his awkward presence even worse.
relentlessflame
2006-12-04, 00:54
While this calculated disregard is probably among the healthiest paths open to Haruhiko right now, I never, ever want to be friends with a guy who can so easily throw away a close friendship he has had his entire life without any signs of regret. I'm really pretty shocked that Haruhiko is capable of doing so.Well, as you said, this is pretty much the best he can do. Would it be easier to be friends with someone who would continue to lead the other girl on once it's clear that what she wants is to be "more than just friends"? (She didn't ask for a "friendship" charm, remember...) He can't just go on acting like nothing's changed; she changed the game herself. In my mind, he's doing all he can do: making it clear how he feels and giving her space as she needs it. He would like to stay friends (he even said that), but her forcing her feelings on him has made it awkward. So what can he do? "Rock", meet "hard place". No matter what, this was never going to be easy.
Man, this show seems determined to shit all over Kirino as much as it possibly can. Riko steals Haruhiko away from her when they are kids. Then she leaves, allowing Kirino to get close to Haruhiko once again. Then she comes back and steals him away again! And to cap things off, Haruhiko doesn't seem to care about Kirino in the slightest anymore, and Riko broke their promise! No wonder this girl has such a shattered sense of self esteem. I can only wonder what is next.Well, the problem has always been that he just doesn't love her, no matter how much she wants him to. He sees her as a childhood friend and possibly more like a sister (in the truer sense), but she wants "exclusivity" - hence the whole "she stole him away from me" (he never belonged to her anyway). She's being selfish and co-dependant, and that's not healthy. What Kirino needs most isn't to be close to Haruhiko, but to become stronger and independant so that she can stand on her own two feet without him.
So, I guess what I'm saying is that, much like all the previous "bad examples" of unreciprocated Gifts in the show, Kirino's problem is that she's thinking only of herself right now. I'm not saying that it isn't understandable -- she's finally figured out that the guy she's been in love with all this time won't return her feelings, and that's an incredibly tough realization -- but, that's the reality she has to come to grips with. See my discussion with npal about the two possible ways she could handle this. Of course we're supposed to feel sorry for her and identify with her struggle - but I don't think it's without reason or justification.
holyman282
2006-12-04, 01:19
Npal also the fact that they make it a happy ending where girls like Kirino move on is also alot more meaningful to me cause basically it teaches a lesson, about not holding onto something that could eventually cause breakdown. An ending where the person holds an grudge until they die really doesn't have any point to the story apart from shocking the audience. The fact is like what relentless says is that not everyone goes on a killing spree just because they got their hearts broken, in fact that concept is not the norm, if indeed that idea is realistic then there would be alot of homicidal maniacs out there wanting to kill everyone cause they got dumped.
I don't intend to fault Haruhiko for the way he is handling this. Actually, the problem is that he is coping with it too well. He is not struggling with any feelings of distress over having to shove Kirino away. Hell, he seems to barely give it a thought. It is a healthy solution to his problem, but he is carrying it out far more easily than he really should be able to. Unless, of course, he never really cared much about Kirino at all (and I don't mean as a lover; simply as a friend) - in which case shame on him for using and misleading the poor girl for so many years.
And yes, Kirino needs to become independent from Haruhiko and lead her own life and all that jazz (of course, I could say this about the vast majority of bishoujos, and could probably make a pretty compelling case for Riko if I cared enough to). I was just commenting on how cruel this show is being to her, using phrasing that reflected Kirino's perspective on everything. It isn't any of the character's faults, but Kirino really has been incredibly unlucky and gotten far more crap shoved upon her than any other hgame anime girl in recent memory. This in no way makes her more "deserving" to "win" Haruhiko (the concept of desert has no place in matters of love anyway), but I really hope that she ends up with more than the cliched "becoming independent and living my own life" developments. However, I really have no idea what else could happen that would make sense - then again, that is the writer's job to figure out, not mine :p
holyman282
2006-12-04, 02:53
being independent is probably the best ending for her unless you believe that she finds a boyfriend later on, while that's all good and dandy, the fact is, it doesn't have as much an effect as accepting that her feelings won't be returned, but she still has them. If she finds another boyfriend in the end then that would mean that her feelings for Haruhiko was merely an infatuation and that there was no deep emotion into it as she found another lover so easily.
relentlessflame
2006-12-04, 03:15
I don't intend to fault Haruhiko for the way he is handling this. Actually, the problem is that he is coping with it too well. He is not struggling with any feelings of distress over having to shove Kirino away. Hell, he seems to barely give it a thought. It is a healthy solution to his problem, but he is carrying it out far more easily than he really should be able to. Unless, of course, he never really cared much about Kirino at all (and I don't mean as a lover; simply as a friend) - in which case shame on him for using and misleading the poor girl for so many years.Hmm... maybe you're right. I guess Haruhiko's "fatal flaw" is that he's so in love with Riko that Kirino's feelings simply don't register at all. I doubt that he ever intended to "use and mislead" her; she was just sort of "always there" (just like a true "childhood friend"), and he had come to accept her place in his life in that capacity. Of course, that makes things all the more frustrating for Kirino who, as you pointed out, probably feels that fate is playing a cruel joke with her life (she wanted to be his sister, would've preferred to be his lover, and now, thanks to her not-entirely-misplaced jealousy, may not be able to stay a friend?).
If I were to guess, I'd say that these next few episodes should help address this whole issue to a degree, but we'll see how they handle it. I mean, to be clear, I'm not advocating for a second that she should all of a sudden have a magical change of heart (as she was pretending to have when talking to Haruhiko near the end of episode 9 -- that's so fake, which is why it was obviously an act in that scene). The question is, though, is there an ideal solution for all those involved at this point? As you said, that's the writer's job to figure out... we'll see what they do.
Edit: Incidentally, I hope people aren't taking the "serious tone" of the recent discussion too seriously... it's all intended in good debating spirit, and not meant as personal attacks or anything like that. I always enjoy a good and interesting discussion, so thanks to everyone; I hope you all feel the same way. :)
And indeed, this episode saw Kirino go Kaede and threaten to activate the Sakura Tree! Man, this show seems determined to shit all over Kirino as much as it possibly can. Riko steals Haruhiko away from her when they are kids. Then she leaves, allowing Kirino to get close to Haruhiko once again. Then she comes back and steals him away again! And to cap things off, Haruhiko doesn't seem to care about Kirino in the slightest anymore, and Riko broke their promise! No wonder this girl has such a shattered sense of self esteem. I can only wonder what is next.
Well, actually Riko did not steal anything away - Haruhiko's heart belonged to her ever since back then. (besides, Haruhiko does not belong to anyone - it is his choise to belong to some one, and in this case it's Riko. Kirino can't have Haruhiko stolen from her, because he was never her's to begin with, and as far as we know Haruhiko has never done anything to make her believe otherwise.
About the prommise (i have not seen ep9 yet) - as i gather it was a prommise not to use Gift in order to sway Haruhiko's feelings, right? Well, gues what - she never did! Haruhiko had no idea about her Gift prior to 1 day ago. Did this affect his feelings in any way? The mere fact that Riko's Gift worked as intended without him knowing shows where Haruhiko's heart has been all along.
Speaking of which, I am rather surprised by Haruhiko's behavior in this episode. As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, throughout the series he has shown a considerable lack of thought or care regarding Kirino. This is a normal, understandable reaction for a guy who has suddenly fallen head over heels in love. But as of this episode (and possibly in 8 too), Haruhiko's head is no longer in the clouds. No longer is he simply ignoring Kirino, along with the rest of the world. Now his behavior towards her is of carefully calculated disregard, with no sign of remorse or distress on his part. While this calculated disregard is probably among the healthiest paths open to Haruhiko right now, I never, ever want to be friends with a guy who can so easily throw away a close friendship he has had his entire life without any signs of regret. I'm really pretty shocked that Haruhiko is capable of doing so.
Suddenly fallen in love? He has been in love with Riko ever since back then and has held on to his feelings for 7(?) years - thats hardly "suddenly". Hes ignoring Kirino? True dat. Other action he can take(which i expected of him to be honest to some extent) is to stand up for Riko and tell Kirino to do a reality check and get off his case. Which one is better? I don't know, but i myself would have possibly chosen the second one. I like to keep things straight and clear in cases like these. And he has been pretty straightforward about his feelings.
Like relentlessflame stated - Kirino never wanted to be "just a friend", and if he starts acting friendly towards her now it will simply give her false hope, and in the long run that would make the sitation even worse.
I don't intend to fault Haruhiko for the way he is handling this. Actually, the problem is that he is coping with it too well. He is not struggling with any feelings of distress over having to shove Kirino away. Hell, he seems to barely give it a thought. It is a healthy solution to his problem, but he is carrying it out far more easily than he really should be able to.
The thing is, there is only so much he can do for Kirino right now - what Kirino wants from him is not a friendly shoulder to cry on, or a friendly conversation from him. She wants to be his lover, not a friend, and he can't help her in this regard.
As for him not struggling - well, he has finaly gotten his 7 years old feelings returned, so i can kinda understand that he would care for Riko first and foremost. And the situation certainly would not be improved should he also act stressed and uncomfortable.
Strange, isnt it? We bash all(most) harem leads for being too nice towards all the girls while taking ages to choose one and leading everyone on for god knows how long in the end hurting every one.(To quote Suzuka:"Are you sure you are not mistaking the person you should be nice to?") And now that we have one that is 100% sure of his feelings and acts upon it without second thought, never giving any false hopes to the other girls, we still have some one coming out and bashing him :heh:
Ok, now to actually watch ep9 ... :heh:
Not saying i do not feel sorry for Kirino - she has spent all these years trying to get his atention, but you can't blame Haruhiko for the fact that his Heart belongs to Riko and acting upon it. Kirino is getting the short end of the deal here, but it really isn't any ones fault.
I might come off sounding cruel and inconsiderate towards Kirino saying this, but that is the reality of her situation, as was never my intention to step on some ones nerves with this post, even if it seems written in a rather harsh tone :)
I think you are missing my point.
Haruhiko is doing nothing wrong. He is doing the healthy thing by shoving Kirino away. But I don't understand how he does it so easily. He has been close friends with this girl for years, and breaking apart friendships like this is painful. This is a problem with the writing and character consistency, not a moral judgement of Haruhiko's actions.
And I already stated that my use of phrasing like "Riko stole Haruhiko from Kirino" was to better reflect Kirino's perspective of the situation. All of the crap is hitting her, so it only makes sense to look at the crap from her perspective. If nothing else, it helps makes things a bit more dramatic :p
And sure, Riko's breaking of the promise may have neither been intentional or against the original spirit of the promise, but it nonetheless adds insult to injury for Kirino. It is just one more way in which she percieves she has been screwed over.
Also, don't worry about being cruel and inconsiderate towards Kirino - you aren't. The show itself is doing that. You are simply stating the truth. Kirino is simply going to have to deal with this, and the sooner the better. My problem is that I have seen plenty of begrieved bishoujos move on with their lives and become strong and independent after heartbreak. In fact, I have seen it done extremely well, for instance in Lamune. But unfortunately, the quality of writing and character depth in this show simply isn't up to snuff to make a development like that memorable. It is going to have to do more, although as I already said, I have no idea what.
You are right on that - from Kirino's pov it indeed might seem that Riko is stealing Haruhiko away and all the other crap that is happening to her is some sort of Riko's fault :)
I gues i can also see where you are coming from saying he is shoving Kirino aside too easily... but we will have to wait and see - maybe he is just controlling his emotions for the moment in order to make the situation work out for the best:) It certainly wouldn't help if he as well would act all angsty upon it... maybe he will let us in to his thoughts about the sitation regarding Kirino later at some point ... perhaps while talking to Riko... tho this is unlikely to happen :heh:
Yes, it would indeed be painful to break a long-term friendship this way in most cases... tho not allways if some conditions are met.(speeking from experience here). Lets say that he might feel angry towards Kirino for lashing out at Riko(for things that are not Riko's fault at all)... in this case he wouldn't feel sorry for her. (at least not at that specific moment). And as for it being OOC for Haruhiko... i am not sure... he has never shown a great deal of concern toards Kirino (wether this speaks good or bad of him), so i don't know...
Oh well, we will just have to wait and see where this goes :heh:
I think you are missing my point.
Haruhiko is doing nothing wrong. He is doing the healthy thing by shoving Kirino away. But I don't understand how he does it so easily. He has been close friends with this girl for years, and breaking apart friendships like this is painful. This is a problem with the writing and character consistency, not a moral judgement of Haruhiko's actions.
And I already stated that my use of phrasing like "Riko stole Haruhiko from Kirino" was to better reflect Kirino's perspective of the situation. All of the crap is hitting her, so it only makes sense to look at the crap from her perspective. If nothing else, it helps makes things a bit more dramatic :p
And sure, Riko's breaking of the promise may have neither been intentional or against the original spirit of the promise, but it nonetheless adds insult to injury for Kirino. It is just one more way in which she percieves she has been screwed over.
Also, don't worry about being cruel and inconsiderate towards Kirino - you aren't. The show itself is doing that. You are simply stating the truth. Kirino is simply going to have to deal with this, and the sooner the better. My problem is that I have seen plenty of begrieved bishoujos move on with their lives and become strong and independent after heartbreak. In fact, I have seen it done extremely well, for instance in Lamune. But unfortunately, the quality of writing and character depth in this show simply isn't up to snuff to make a development like that memorable. It is going to have to do more, although as I already said, I have no idea what.
*nod nod
And that was my main point, the characters are not developed properly. I mean, DaCapo had put more thought to that. Although I had some gripes here and there about Sakura's resolution, it made sense. Aisia's case made much more sense but she wasn't actually the third party in the relationship so that doesn't count that much. Kotori had it pretty simple, not the huge investment of a childhood friend. Now, seeing as the company CAN have good writers, they might as well use them in this series, too.
And speaking of Lamune, the girl in question was able to be friends with the guy for a really short while, so yes, I considered the tearful resolution believable, although it was pretty sad.
The case with Gift is that they have pushed a character too far, the stakes are very high from Kirino's point, and Haruhiko, while doing one of the few things he can do, doesn't do much to help (hmm... I've seen that before... although he's fundamentally different from someone else I remember). Now, THAT approach could have helped in the past indeed, and there wouldn't be a problem now, but it's too little, too late and at the worst possible moment, so YES, the least I expect-and want to see- is a *very* serious outburst or some degree of chronic (maybe outright major, maybe not) depression (depends on the personality involved). I say the least, and I believe those are pretty healthy, considering the homo- or suicidal and vengeful alternatives I can think of. Yes, I think it's close to impossible for someone in Kirino's case to just rise up and take the challenge with little ill effects whatsoever. In Lamune's case, that girl may have had her share of psychopathological symptoms before getting to where she was at the end of the series.
So all in all, the series has to let go of its miraculous happiness theme and take a plunge to the reality of human psychology. I mean, they're doing it great with Haruhiko, he's in love, he's blind to everything else, he got his feelings returned finally so he's inconsiderate to anything not related to that, he's a f****ng bastard if you ask me, but yes, it happens and even if someone informs you that you're hurting people, you may not care. Haruhiko dropping Kirino so easily is not unheard of. Friendships, even old ones, that conflict with your current state can go down the drain easily (depends on the person), so I'm not really surprised, although I still think he's a jerk for that :p
And speaking of Lamune, the girl in question was able to be friends with the guy for a really short while, so yes, I considered the tearful resolution believable, although it was pretty sad.
I was actually talking about Nanami, in the final episode of the series. Sakura did get over her affection for Kenji, but that wasn't due to anything she did herself. She simply had the issue forced on her when her family moved away.
I just wanted to clear that up. I don't want to get this thread off topic with discussions of other series >_>
And Haruhiko is past the blinded by love stage of his relationship. If he was blinded, he would simply ignore the fact that there is any sort of issue with Kirino, and their relationship as friends would suffer as he continued to ignore her. However, he clearly acknowledges that there is a problem now. And his response? "Oh well sucks for her. Hmm, I wonder what is on TV tonight." I could see him putting on a strong facade of this attitude in Kirino's presence for both of their sakes, but what we are seeing from him isn't a facade. Throughout this episode (on the train ride home, for instance), he makes it pretty clear that his now fractured relationship with Kirino isn't very much of a concern for him. He isn't angered, saddened, anxious, distressed, or even contemplative about this turn of events. Somehow it isn't troubling him at all, which to me screams of poor writing.
holyman282
2006-12-04, 05:44
*nod nod
And that was my main point, the characters are not developed properly. I mean, DaCapo had put more thought to that. Although I had some gripes here and there about Sakura's resolution, it made sense. Aisia's case made much more sense but she wasn't actually the third party in the relationship so that doesn't count that much. Kotori had it pretty simple, not the huge investment of a childhood friend. Now, seeing as the company CAN have good writers, they might as well use them in this series, too.
Well Npal i have to agree with you on there, the way in which Haruhiko is dealing with the situation is not helping the angst at all, instead of using this as a method of pushing kirino away, it is this action that is giving Kirino a false hope, because right now he is not making the situation clear, he hasn't layed down what is happening.
This reaction of Haruhiko is in contrast with that of Asakura from DaCapo where he makes it clear to Sakura that he loves Nemu, this clears out any hope that Sakura could possibly hold onto of getting Asakura and personally I believe that is how Haruhiko should of dealt with the situation. He has to confront Kirino and say it clearly on what's happening and that is he loves Riko and will see them as nothing more then friends, that may be harsh but it would of helped the situation better than simply ignoring and disreguarding her feelings, hoping that she will get the point.
This reaction of Haruhiko is in contrast with that of Asakura from DaCapo where he makes it clear to Sakura that he loves Nemu, this clears out any hope that Sakura could possibly hold onto of getting Asakura and personally I believe that is how Haruhiko should of dealt with the situation. He has to confront Kirino and say it clearly on what's happening and that is he loves Riko and will see them as nothing more then friends, that may be harsh but it would of helped the situation better than simply ignoring and disreguarding her feelings, hoping that she will get the point.
Sakura and Kirino are fairly different people in different situations. Sakura was away for all the time and came back recently...Sakura's situation is exactly like Riko's, except that Asakura had changed his love from Sakura towards Nemu, while Haruhiko has held on to his feelings. Kirino on the other hand has been here for all these years and is in a different situation.
Besides we don't know how Kirino would handle Haruhiko telling her directly to get away from him. What worked for Sakura is not guaranteed to work for Kirino - their personalities are different. Sakura is smarter and more level-headed than Kirino and aprocahed the situation with more realistic pov(even though it hurt like hell she tried to let go and was prepared to do so, while Kirino has no intentions of doing so).
Haruhiko has 2 choises - either ignore Kirino and give her time to get over it herself, or showe it down her throat. We just have to assume that he knows Kirino better than us and thus knows better how to act.
Besides all of you who are saying that Haruhiko shows no concern about Kirino ... i am wondering if my version of ep9 includes some kind of different Haruhiko? Because he did show his concern. If you are asking of him to prioritize Kirino's feelings over his own feelings for Riko you are being highly unreasonable.
As for ep10 preview...
Looks like Kirino is going to pull off something highly spooky... it seems that we will be indeed messing with Haruhikos memories again. (I wonder if he will finally get tired of it and snap at Kirino when it gets fixed)... looks like it will be an angsty ride for Riko. can't wait for the next ep.)... i wonder if the Gift will replace Riko's place with Kirino in Haruhiko's memories... since she said she wanted to be his little sister...)
Well, I used Sakura to make a point on believable character resolution regarding a form of triangle in which the third person was more than the harem-normal "oh well, let's be friends". I mean, the writers can say that the character gets over it, sure, many of us get over many things. It's the WAY a character gets over it that counts, if he gets over it at all (yes, there are those sad occurrences when tragic things happen). Will he shout, will he cry, will he attack, will he lock himself up, will he do whatever, and for how long -duration of a behavioral pattern is crucial. Now, clearly you can't follow a character around for more than an episode (time factor), but you can provide general guidelines if you're gonna take the "he'll get over it eventually" route, most of which are not "hurray, I'll be happy now" or even "ok, that's alright, I'll start over" (although the latter depends on the situation).
Ok, I take back my argument about Haruhiko being so lovestruck :p And I also take back the point of him being untroubled about Kirino. He was troubled throughout the trip, then settled with his decision that there's nothing he can do but tell the truth. It's a matter of conscience, some people get over concerns or guilt easily while others may lose their sleep for days. If Haruhiko was someone else, maybe he wouldn't even care about the charm. Maybe he wouldn't care what Kirino thought, after all he made his choice. Another type of Haruhiko could have been devastated by the turn of events. The Haruhiko we have here is pretty much in the middle, not a very good place to be, according to me. He showed he was troubled by the whole issue, but he knows he can't back out and he knows he's not at fault for loving Riko. The problem with this attitude is that if you show the other person that you're happy and he's not, that you are not at fault and it's his problem, as Haruhiko is unknowingly doing, you have a serious situation at hand, and you can expect the other party to retaliate in some way.
And to make matters worse, Riko is giving Kirino a very nice justifier, the breaking of a promise. Could this have been avoided? Not really, Riko actually chose the best solution available immediately and that's why she should be commended. She lowered her head and pledged guilty while offering an acceptable excuse of why breaking this promise wasn't a product of malice or forethought. Not that Kirino would actively listen to that excuse but it registers and it might help at some point. Riko though deserves the extra credit for considering the situation more than Haruhiko, although it might have something to do with her feeling guilty about the Gift promise. Riko, Kirino, and Haruhiko's actions are thought rather well. And that's why I don't want to see some terrible resolution.
I mean, I thought how Chisa resolved her problem was purely insane. I haven't heard of a person set on a path and having serious amounts of power to carve his way towards a goal (making people happy through miracles in this case) throwing the power away because SOMEONE out of a large crowd was made miserable. A person with power would just say that "for the greater good there are some casualties, deal with it", if he's closer to actually working for the greater good and "what should I care, as long as I attain my goal", if he works for himself. And even if I was the one wronged there, I know I'd have done the same if the power was my own. For someone with Chisa's power, "guess happiness is not so easily attained" is a huge load of crap, unless that power failed miserably and successively on numerous occasions. And even then, it would take someone with the clarity of mind to stand back and evaluate the results. Most people with extreme power are often blind to the results, as history has taught. If you ask me, THIS was a case of bad writing. And I don't want to see that happen in Kirino's case, since it's going so well (or bad, depends on your point of view). I'd be pretty pissed if matters resolved like Chisa's case or another famous (or infamous) and very similar case in another series.
And to answer Skyfall's last statement, a number of people would do that. It actually depends on the person and the way he deals with things. Now... a SANE person (as love and insanity have a similar behavioral pattern) with more than half a brain would understand that Kirino's situation was pretty serious as it was, let alone the mention of Kirino's Gift. I don't believe someone who valued anything upon this world would sleep at the thought of a distorted Gift delivered from a person with a good load of negative feelings. I mean, Gift's can do pretty much anything, right? And the person who's sending the Gift in this case has nothing to lose. The receiving end is at a huge disadvantage :p
And the stage is set. Go Kirino, make us proud :D And let the world tremble at the sound of your name.
Hm...the thing with Chisa... it could be explained in a way that it was not some random person who came to her... Haruhiko is her acquaintance and the person her best friend(Kirino) loves, so that could influence her decision somehow. (lets admit it - much more often than not we care about those close to us in the first place before the mases of nameless people).
And besides, she is suposed to deliver happiness, right? Well as a result she had her best friend suffering from guilt and the person her best friend loves was about to erase the memories of his own mother as a result of her fake gift - thus she might have felt she 'failed' in her mission and thus steps down from her position. (One death is a tragedy; a million is a statistic. <Joseph Stalin>) ;)
@npal's last comment - i do know Haruhiko is in a pretty tight spot right about now, but i doubt that it dawned upon him that Kirino will go to such lengths as she is about to. I don't think Haruhiko believes that Kirino is capable of doing something evil... well it seems he is about to be proven wrong :p
As for how this is going to play out... i think i want to see an angsty outcome - i wouldn't mind seeing Haruhiko slap Kirino in the end or something, instead of the mushy-mushy talk about values of life and stuff which we are most likely going to get... but we will see... as long as they pull it off in a believable manner i'm fine with it. Thing is - i don't see Kirino coming out of her current mental state by simple talking/reasoning... i think a slap and "I hate you" from Haruhiko (after the comotion she is about to cause is settled ofc:p ) would go a long way, and make her realise that what she is doing is rather counter-productive (She said she want's to remain friends with him at least >.< ... and i doubt that the actions she is about to take will help in this regard)
As for how this is going to play out... i think i want to see an angsty outcome - i wouldn't mind seeing Haruhiko slap Kirino in the end or something, instead of the mushy-mushy talk about values of life and stuff which we are most likely going to get... but we will see... as long as they pull it off in a believable manner i'm fine with it. Thing is - i don't see Kirino coming out of her current mental state by simple talking/reasoning... i think a slap and "I hate you" from Haruhiko (after the comotion she is about to cause is settled ofc:p ) would go a long way, and make her realise that what she is doing is rather counter-productive (She said she want's to remain friends with him at least >.< ... and i doubt that the actions she is about to take will help in this regard)
LOL, Haruhiko is in one of those predicaments where talking won't solve anything and slapping or any other form of negative attack will just push Kirino to greater lengths. Crushing Kirino's feelings is a way to insure that, if not now, at some point in his and Riko's life, Kirino will get her revenge. The worst case scenario of course being Kirino going totally bonkers right here and now, putting Kaede to shame and making School Days seem like a field trip.
Edit: Don't take Kirino's "let's be friends" at face value. Using the Gift makes what that line was for pretty apparent. Best chances are staying friends and working from that status or waiting until something goes wrong, then bump in. Learning about Riko's Gift brings things into new perspective :p A bad perspective really since the enemy has given all the excuses for you to start playing dirty. The problem is bigger than what may seem. Unless Kirino has an epiphany (bleh, not THAT lame again) , something pretty dramatic has to happen for the Gift to be nullified. Which of course makes me think that Haruhiko's Gift might play a role in this in the future. Even if they do manage to find an unorthodox way to get past Kirino's Gift, I'm sure Kirino won't admit defeat. The next step is physical violence. If Haruhiko and Riko play some sort of dirty trick to get past the Gift, they should get guns and barricade the house :p Bleh... Chances are Haruhiko will convince Kirino with his supreme rhetorics (some of us may actually spend months treating unfortunate people like Kirino) to resolve the Gift properly.
vBulletin® v3.8.6, Copyright ©2000-2013, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.