Let's Talk About Anime

To celebrate my upcoming birthday tomorrow, I would like to share what I do in my spare time besides reading. But really, I just wanted to have an excuse to make this short list. *winks*

I'm a total book nerd but I'm a huge anime nut job too. Although I don't watch a lot of anime like I used to, I have a few favorites that I find myself rewatching every now and then. Without further ado, here they are, in no particular order: 

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1. Shingeki no Kyojin (Attack on Titan)

This anime just came out last year, rocking and blazing with its addictive OST, and that might seem not too long ago but fans have been waiting for the second season since forever. This includes yours truly and as we all know there's no fun in waiting. Plus, this just increases the chances of being spoiled (right, Meg?) by all those who read the manga. *shakes fist*

Struggling to survive inside the wall against man-eating Titans, Shingeki no Kyojin depicts humanity at its weakest and most vulnerable state. It is chock-full of action, twists and deaths that once you start watching, you'll end up gobbling up everything in one-sitting. This happened to me and it's bound to happen again. You have been warned.

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2. Death Note 

Many will say that Death Note should have quit while its ahead, but it is definitely one of a kind and deserves more episodes—no matter how convoluted the story became.

This anime is so sick and twisted that the evil in me was extremely delighted in watching the antihero deemed himself god and savior of humanity. He's cleansing out the world by killing all those who are evil using the notebook provided by a bored Shinigami, and the scary thing is, I don't see anything wrong with what Light Yagami/Kira is doing except perhaps trampling on the justice system. It's exciting to watch everyone try to capture this elusive and lethal Kira and it became even more nerve-wracking when L entered the picture. I'm quite ashamed to admit that I kept switching alliances between the two brilliant leads.

Controversial and engaging, this anime is a must watch for those who love dark, suspenseful anime.

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3. Puella Magi Madoka Magica

Magical girl anime are meant to be light, so I started watching this expecting a Sailor Moon-esque fun, only to find out I was in for some deep, bleak shite. I definitely meant that as a compliment on account that I was pleasantly surprised and I loved every second of it. 

Deconstructing the magical girl genre, possessing stunning visuals, pyschological and heavier in theme, Madoka Magica intends to enthrall neophytes and lovers of the genre.

And out of all the anime listed here, I would definitely egg you on with Madoka Magica because you'll be more inclined to check this out since it only has 11 episodes. I repeat, it only has 11 episodes. Yeah!

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4. Cowboy Bebop

So if you're one of those persnickety people who value lists above all and check them for recommendations, you'd see this on top anywhere, and it's not without valid and satisfying reasons. This is a mature anime that showcases odd yet compelling characters and relevant, weighty episodes. 

Since it was episodic in nature, I didn't immediately fell head over heels in love with Cowboy Bebop. In time though, I was pretty sucked in and once I read some fantastic analyses (yes, I read them just because) regarding each episodes, I realized Cowboy Bebop is more than what meets the eye and I loved it even more. Heartbreaking and jaunty, Cowboy Bebop would definitely appeal to young and old anime lovers alike.

5. Bleach

You won't see this on any Top Anime Series of All Lime list and I know many hardcore anime fans would dismiss this as mainstream anime with no substance. But you know what? I don't care. We're all entitled to love what we like and vice versa. I love this so much that I started reading the manga because I simply cannot wait for the anime, and I terribly miss Ichigo Kurosaki and the gang. Being a Shinigami or Death god is the name of the game and Ichigo Kurosaki became one despite being a human.

I understand and acknowledge that there are glaring flaws in the series but my unconditional love would still be undeterred. I've watched this series since 2007 and I've seen the characters grow not only in strength but also as individuals, and I'll be in the Bleach bandwagon for the long haul. Even the critics have to admit that Bleach started really strong and it boasts a wonderful OST. Like, Will of the Heart and Never Meant to Belong, which I'm listening to right now for added inspiration and feels. 

I know watching 366 episodes might seem daunting but trust me, you'll fly through it. I suggest skipping the filler episodes and you'll wait with me in no time for the hopeful return of the anime.

So these are some of my favorite anime. Do you watch anime? 

What are some of your favorites? I'm open to any recommendations.