AnimeSuki Forums

Sides · 2012-02-21, 15:39

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blaat

It's Taichi Tuesday which means Chihayafuru, another excellent episode in which

Spoiler:

^^

Spoiler:

Haak · 2012-02-21, 16:10

Holy crap, Taichi's line at the end was just totally badass. XD

Anh_Minh · 2012-02-21, 16:11

Spoiler for 20:

Kanon · 2012-02-21, 16:43

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blaat

It's Taichi Tuesday which means Chihayafuru, another excellent episode in which

Spoiler:

Taichi is stealing the show and the hearts of every characters and viewers at the same time~
He's such a great character. He's trying to break away from his parents' teachings and become a better person through Karuta. His line to Harada-sensei was amazing.

I loved seeing Arata in action again. His playing style was reminiscent of Shinobu, with the difference that it was a little gentler, somehow. Water fits him well in contrast to ice for Shinobu.

I was surprised Arata thought Chihaya and Taichi were dating. It's pretty natural to think so, but I thought a karuta nut like him would be as blind to romance as Chihaya is. That's not the case at all.

Quote:

Originally Posted by fanty

The weird artsy/melodramatic direction of this episode almost made me laugh.

It can be a little overblown at times, but goddammit, I love it. And I'm usually the first to complain about that kind of thing. It's probably because I like these characters so much that I can overlook it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Forsaken_Infinity

Awesome news.

Kanon, what manga did the mangaka plagiarize art from?

Slam Dunk and Real. At least she stole from the best. Plagiarism aside, the manga in question (Eden no Hana/Flower of Eden) seems to be really good. I'm highly interested in reading it.

Anh_Minh · 2012-02-21, 17:36

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kanon

Taichi is stealing the show and the hearts of every characters and viewers at the same time~
He's such a great character. He's trying to break away from his parents' teachings and become a better person through Karuta. His line to Harada-sensei was amazing.

Yeah, he's one of the few convincing "poor little rich kids" out there. I usually feel like calling bullshit on that kind of thing, but Taichi's well done. Mostly because the writing here doesn't feel like sour grapes. Taichi's not miserable (well, not that miserable) because he's rich, but in spite of it. Plus, he is a hardworker, even and especially at the things he fails at.

Sol Falling · 2012-02-21, 17:40

Pretty interesting episode. This one contributed in fleshing Arata out as an actual personality, which makes the overall story surrounding Chihaya, Arata, and Taichi's friendship which got focus this episode a fair bit stronger.

Taichi who's struggling to become a person who doesn't run away. Chihaya who's searching for a way forward in karuta and contemplating how a lack of grounding has lead to her whole life becoming sloppy. And Arata who harbours insecurities about time lost and how well or whether he can re-establish his connection with his old friends. Moreso than previously, I think this episode brought out the human side of these characters in their uncertainties and their lives as journeys towards something they're searching for.

The art was somewhat more evocative than usual this episode, in an understated way. I caught myself admiring Chihaya's figure throughout the first half of the episode (lol) but what really caught my attention was the straightness of Arata's back. Aside from the highly developed science/art of moe, it seems somewhat rare for me that anime is able to bring out character/feeling like that through just the art alone, so kudos to the animation team this time for that.

I'm pretty interested in the introduction of this water theme for Arata in contrast to, indeed, ice for Shinobu. Good catch there Kanon. The anime made a point in superimposing Shinobu's image with Arata's this episode so I'm wondering where they intend to go both in terms of their differences and similarities. I notice that, like Shinobu, we were also given an image from the beginning somewhat of Arata playing karuta alone.

Also, on a bit of a final minor note, I was also pretty excited to hear mention of the reigning Meijin of the game. I was tremendously impressed with Shinobu, of course, as a stunning opponent for Chihaya's future development and a rival without peer. However, I have to admit I've also been interested in the seasoned experience and confidence/craftiness of true masters who've spent lifetimes with the game. To this point this story has focused quite a bit on youth, to the point that we have a character who is the youngest Queen in history. I think it's good if they're planning to increase the involvement of more seasoned perspectives like Sakura, or Dr. Harada.

Kazu-kun · 2012-02-21, 18:45

Chihaya: Taichi lost in the third round.

Komano: Was he depressed?

Chihaya: Um, er...

Way to be a friend, Chihaya. Didn't you say you were going there to make sure he wouldn't be alone, yet he was all alone at the end. Well, I'm pretty sure she'll come to realize this on her own soon enough, but it certainly doesn't make me like her character more, and she wasn't one of my favorites to begin with....

On another note, great episode. I wonder how they're planing to end the series.

ars89 · 2012-02-21, 18:54

Wow Taichi is becoming my favorite character.

thundrakkon · 2012-02-21, 19:28

Whenever Arata enters the stage, the anime just feels so refreshing and epic. I really miss him, and he brings just an atmosphere of greatness.

I am not feeling the same type of love for Taichi that so many posters seem to have with him. In a lot of ways, I still see a lot of flaws and negative aspects that others seem to overlook. However, I do agree that he has improved a lot since the beginning.

It is especially unfair for Arata, since he is not getting any screen time to show how great a character he is. However, whenever he shows up, he really steals the show.

Chihaya always seems like she is in another world with Arata around. She seems to rise to the occasion somehow. I really do like that interaction. I really do like the inspiration that they bring together. It is so much more an uplifting story whenever we see them.

kyouray · 2012-02-21, 19:46

Quote:

Originally Posted by fanty

The weird artsy/melodramatic direction of this episode almost made me laugh.

That was Shigeyasu Yamauchi's greatness. He did the storyboard of this episode and it sure influenced the direction. The water stuff is typically his style since he likes to create a special atmosphere using sounds and visual effects.
A very strong episode indeed.

Kirarakim · 2012-02-21, 20:04

Quote:

Originally Posted by thundrakkon

It is especially unfair for Arata, since he is not getting any screen time to show how great a character he is. However, whenever he shows up, he really steals the show.

I like Arata and it's always nice when he makes an appearance but as far as stealing the show Taichi definitely has that covered for me. Of course that being said I definitely hope we get more of Arata in the final 5 episodes.

I don't know about the others but the reason why I love Taichi so much is his character isn't perfect but he constantly struggles and grows into a better person. Taichi's face should be under the explanation for character development.

I felt for him so much when he lost again (in big part because he felt pressured over Arata being there) but still he admitted how happy he was to see Arata (that should squash any doubts that Taichi doesn't care about Arata).

Then we have Taichi turning down class A because he cares more about not running away. That moment was just epic.

Okay getting over this Taichi love fest, I also liked Komano telling Chihaya that we have to do what we don't like so we can do what we do like and this got her to study harder. I am glad that the series showed that there are other things to life than Karuta and Chihaya should sacrifice her grades to the game.

Crontica · 2012-02-21, 23:53

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kanon

Now that's what I call bouncing back. The mangaka career could have died a few years back when she was accused and later admitted to have plagiarized the art of other manga, and now her new manga's nominated for Tezuka award (not to mention it's already won awards in the past). It's amazing how far she's come.

what is wrong for using an art style you admire from another manga, unless she copied it exactly as written.

Putting my Fujoshi and Ship sinking antics aside, it seems the only romantic progress we got in this episode was Arata and Taichi's phone discussion scene.

Guardian Enzo · 2012-02-22, 01:17

That last scene on the platform between Taichi and Harada-sensei... Chillingly good. It captured the essence of everything that's happened for 20 episodes with Taichi in a few short lines of dialogue. Harada summed it up: "Frustration can't go on forever. Nobody can keep on going without a measure of reward." As the station attendant announces "An empty train is passing on track two" Taichi laughs and refuses his offer of promotion (which he's earned fair and square), telling Harada-sensei that he's not focused on moving up to Class A - he's "focused on becoming someone who doesn't run away." Astonishingly good writing there.

That obviously has implications on Taichi's relationship with Chihaya - as does Tsutomu's sage line to Chihaya, "We have to do the things we don't want to do before we do the things we really want to do." It makes sense in context, as Chihaya is finally learning that her immaturity is hurting her in life, not just Karuta. But it can also apply to Taichi, dealing with his own issues before confessing to Chihaya. His exchange with Arata at the Yoshino qualifier may be just the nudge he needs to make his feelings known - after all, he can't lose Chihaya if he never gets into the game. But with Arata back, all is fair and square and if Taichi wins her heart, it will be a true victory. It's the old story with Taichi - he's learning to get into fights even if he's not guaranteed to win.

Anh_Minh · 2012-02-22, 02:42

Quote:

Originally Posted by Crontica

what is wrong for using an art style you admire from another manga, unless she copied it exactly as written.

Putting my Fujoshi and Ship sinking antics aside, it seems the only romantic progress we got in this episode was Arata and Taichi's phone discussion scene.

IIRC, it wasn't about writing. It was about art: composition, poses, and whatever artsy terms there are? Maybe actual tracing.

Crontica · 2012-02-22, 03:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anh_Minh

IIRC, it wasn't about writing. It was about art: composition, poses, and whatever artsy terms there are? Maybe actual tracing.

Yeah sorry for my wording, manga is mostly about the art otherwise it would just be a boring book.

hai_san · 2012-02-22, 05:14

Great 20th ep, so much character developement from Taichi Chihaya and Arata.

But the best lines had Tsutomu-kun --> If she (Chihaya) would only used 1/10th of her focus on studying, her grades wouldnt be 5th fron bottom.

or "You have to do the things you dont want to do, before you can do the things you truly want to do"

btw Chihaya love ranking Karuta >> Karuta >> Karuta and somewhere down then Taichi and Arata xD

Qilin · 2012-02-22, 08:37

Wow, Taichi. Even if you don't win Chihaya's heart in the end, you've already won everyone else's.

That aside, I'm further impressed by how Tsukue-kun handled himself throughout the episode, even sharing a few nuggets of wisdom. The way his character has made leaps and bounds since his introduction tends to be taken for granted, but he does shine in moments like these when his strengths come to light.

On another note, Kana is ridiculously adorable, as usual.

KyriaL · 2012-02-22, 08:50

Epic episode, but it was Komano-kun's little speech that touched me the most, I was quite motivated to move to studying immediately after the episode. That said, this episode alone contained a number of well-said lines, and of course Arata finally being back in action, after a long hiatus is epic to watch.

Truthfully, its understandably hard to focus on your studies when your mind is so occupied with other stuff, but its an achievement unto itself if you manage to balance studies and passion properly, and not let one interfere much with the other.

warita · 2012-02-22, 09:27

Quote:

Originally Posted by thundrakkon

I am not feeling the same type of love for Taichi that so many posters seem to have with him. In a lot of ways, I still see a lot of flaws and negative aspects that others seem to overlook.

I must say I liked Taichi from the beginning. I dont care about the rich boy part.... I just thought he is cool and cute. So yes, he has flaws, but then who doesnt? The flaws actually make him likeable because you can identify with him better... unlike with Arata, who ist 2D at best. What do we know about Arata? He is silent, obsessive with Karuta and adored his grandpa. Thats it.

Maybe if they did flesh out Aarata more.... and I suspect they will do that in the coming episodes, I could develop some liking for him..... but I still find him boring. He just doesnt do it for me.

But putting that aside.... whats the Harada senseis crush people keep mentioning? For who? Wasnt Harada happily married?

Also, this is something I have been wondering about this week. Is it in Japan a sign of love interest, when you give your number to the opposite sex? I thought that friends can exchange phone numbers just fine?
I mean, it is not just the latest Chihayafuru episode suggesting that giving your phone number to the opposite sex is the same as having love interest. In the last "another" episode Mei has given her number to Kouichi and it seemed like a bigger deal to me then a simple keitai number exchange should be.

Kanon · 2012-02-22, 09:51

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anh_Minh

IIRC, it wasn't about writing. It was about art: composition, poses, and whatever artsy terms there are? Maybe actual tracing.

Yep, there was actual tracing.

You can find out more about the whole story here: http://comipress.com/article/2007/07/09/2267

As you can see, she's not the only one doing it, but in her case, it was bad enough to cause a huge scandal that eventually got her manga canceled (turns out she didn't only do that in Eden no Hana, the work she was doing at the time also presented evidence of plagiarism) and put her career on hiatus for more than a year. I bet there are some people scrutinizing every single panel of Chihayafuru, waiting for her to slip up. Hopefully, she's learned from her past mistakes.

PS: Loved the "twist" about the korean drama.

2012-02-21, 16:10	Link #1142
Haak Me, An Intellectual Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: UK Age: 33	Holy crap, Taichi's line at the end was just totally badass. XD __________________ MAL \| AnimeSuki Choice Awards 2020 Winners

2012-02-21, 16:11	Link #1143
Anh_Minh I disagree with you all. Join Date: Dec 2005	Spoiler for 20: Poor Taichi. I had a feeling he wouldn't win, but still, that was harsh.

2012-02-21, 17:40	Link #1146
Sol Falling Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Age: 35	Pretty interesting episode. This one contributed in fleshing Arata out as an actual personality, which makes the overall story surrounding Chihaya, Arata, and Taichi's friendship which got focus this episode a fair bit stronger. Taichi who's struggling to become a person who doesn't run away. Chihaya who's searching for a way forward in karuta and contemplating how a lack of grounding has lead to her whole life becoming sloppy. And Arata who harbours insecurities about time lost and how well or whether he can re-establish his connection with his old friends. Moreso than previously, I think this episode brought out the human side of these characters in their uncertainties and their lives as journeys towards something they're searching for. The art was somewhat more evocative than usual this episode, in an understated way. I caught myself admiring Chihaya's figure throughout the first half of the episode (lol) but what really caught my attention was the straightness of Arata's back. Aside from the highly developed science/art of moe, it seems somewhat rare for me that anime is able to bring out character/feeling like that through just the art alone, so kudos to the animation team this time for that. I'm pretty interested in the introduction of this water theme for Arata in contrast to, indeed, ice for Shinobu. Good catch there Kanon. The anime made a point in superimposing Shinobu's image with Arata's this episode so I'm wondering where they intend to go both in terms of their differences and similarities. I notice that, like Shinobu, we were also given an image from the beginning somewhat of Arata playing karuta alone. Also, on a bit of a final minor note, I was also pretty excited to hear mention of the reigning Meijin of the game. I was tremendously impressed with Shinobu, of course, as a stunning opponent for Chihaya's future development and a rival without peer. However, I have to admit I've also been interested in the seasoned experience and confidence/craftiness of true masters who've spent lifetimes with the game. To this point this story has focused quite a bit on youth, to the point that we have a character who is the youngest Queen in history. I think it's good if they're planning to increase the involvement of more seasoned perspectives like Sakura, or Dr. Harada. Last edited by Sol Falling; 2012-02-21 at 19:05.

2012-02-21, 18:45	Link #1147
Kazu-kun Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2006	Chihaya: Taichi lost in the third round. Komano: Was he depressed? Chihaya: Um, er... Way to be a friend, Chihaya. Didn't you say you were going there to make sure he wouldn't be alone, yet he was all alone at the end. Well, I'm pretty sure she'll come to realize this on her own soon enough, but it certainly doesn't make me like her character more, and she wasn't one of my favorites to begin with.... On another note, great episode. I wonder how they're planing to end the series. __________________ Last edited by Kazu-kun; 2012-02-21 at 19:02.

2012-02-21, 18:54	Link #1148
ars89 One-Eyed Dragon Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: NJ, USA	Wow Taichi is becoming my favorite character. __________________ My Anime List

2012-02-21, 19:28	Link #1149
thundrakkon Anime-Only Viewer Graphic Designer Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: USA	Whenever Arata enters the stage, the anime just feels so refreshing and epic. I really miss him, and he brings just an atmosphere of greatness. I am not feeling the same type of love for Taichi that so many posters seem to have with him. In a lot of ways, I still see a lot of flaws and negative aspects that others seem to overlook. However, I do agree that he has improved a lot since the beginning. It is especially unfair for Arata, since he is not getting any screen time to show how great a character he is. However, whenever he shows up, he really steals the show. Chihaya always seems like she is in another world with Arata around. She seems to rise to the occasion somehow. I really do like that interaction. I really do like the inspiration that they bring together. It is so much more an uplifting story whenever we see them. __________________

2012-02-22, 05:14	Link #1156
hai_san Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Germany	Great 20th ep, so much character developement from Taichi Chihaya and Arata. But the best lines had Tsutomu-kun --> If she (Chihaya) would only used 1/10th of her focus on studying, her grades wouldnt be 5th fron bottom. or "You have to do the things you dont want to do, before you can do the things you truly want to do" btw Chihaya love ranking Karuta >> Karuta >> Karuta and somewhere down then Taichi and Arata xD

2012-02-22, 08:37	Link #1157
Qilin Romanticist Join Date: Aug 2009 Age: 33	Wow, Taichi. Even if you don't win Chihaya's heart in the end, you've already won everyone else's. That aside, I'm further impressed by how Tsukue-kun handled himself throughout the episode, even sharing a few nuggets of wisdom. The way his character has made leaps and bounds since his introduction tends to be taken for granted, but he does shine in moments like these when his strengths come to light. On another note, Kana is ridiculously adorable, as usual. __________________ "There’s an up higher than up, but at the very top, down is all there is."

2012-02-22, 08:50	Link #1158
KyriaL You are Reading this! Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: In the study room	Epic episode, but it was Komano-kun's little speech that touched me the most, I was quite motivated to move to studying immediately after the episode. That said, this episode alone contained a number of well-said lines, and of course Arata finally being back in action, after a long hiatus is epic to watch. Truthfully, its understandably hard to focus on your studies when your mind is so occupied with other stuff, but its an achievement unto itself if you manage to balance studies and passion properly, and not let one interfere much with the other.