Saturday, June 25, 2011

Summer 2011 Anime Season

Click to Enlarge
It is now the end of June, meaning a new anime season is upon us. Summer season begins with OVAs/movies in June followed by the main TV series in July and rounding it off with more OVAs/movies in August. Summer 2011 brings a season full of shows that have fewer sequels than many of the last few seasons, which allows for both those new to anime and those looking for a fresh start to begin here. In addition, this summer has so far shown a mysterious yet somewhat strong lineup than the past few season, with many PVs showing some significant appeal for a decent number of shows.

Similar to last time, this preview includes recommendations/expectations, license status, premier dates, and a brief synopsis for each show. The preview also includes rollover titles from previous season(s). Shows that have been excluded include: Kayochu, Inumarudashi, MonHun Nikki Girigiri Airuu-mura G, Ganbarre!! Nattou-san.

As I, Shana-chan, personally watch almost everything that airs in a season, I will list out my personal expectations and opinion of each show. They in no way reflect the anime community's review of the show as a whole. I set my bar pretty high for solid shows so do not let it deter you from trying anything that may be lowly rated here. Also, I do not take any responsibility for any physical or mental damages that may come as a result of watching any particular show.

NOTE: DO NOT ASK ME ABOUT LAST EXILE SEASON 2. IT HAS NO CONFIRMED AIR DATE FOR SUMMER 2011. THE FIRST EPISODE WILL AIR AS A WORLD PREMIER IN JAPAN AND AT ANIME EXPO ON JULY 1-4, 2011. NO FURTHER DETAILS ARE GIVEN ON THE REST OF THE SERIES.

LAST UPDATED: SATURDAY, July 23, 2011
*Crunchyroll plans to announce 9 more titles over the next couple weeks so expect some additional updates
Legend:
US License Status: red = Full US market license (streaming, DVD, etc...), Orange = Streaming License, Green = Unlicensed
Expectations: red = poor, orange = mediocre, green = decent, blue = must watch
Guessed episode counts will have a "?" denoted next to them

New Shows Full Count:
Must Watch: 7
Decent: 3
Mediocre: 10
Poor: 6
Total: 26

YuruAni?: Double-J
Based on the manga by Eiji Nonoka, who created Cromartie High School, high school students Hajime and Sayo come across the "Cultural Activity Preservation Club." Double-J is a cultural comedy manga. Higashi Tana (Haiyoru! Nyaruani, Haiyoru Nyaruani: Remember My Love(craft-sensei), Honto ni Atta! Reibai-sensei) will direct the anime adaptation. Emiri Katou (Hideyoshi and Yuuko Kinoshita from Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu, Kyubey from Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica) and Ayuru Oohashi (Eila Ilmatar Juutilainen from Strike Witches, Tomoki Sawamura from Saki, and Ayumu Hoshino from Hoshizora e Kakaru Hashi) will voice Sayo and Hajime respectively.
Premier Date: Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Genres: Comedy, School-Life
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectations: Poor -- Right...the guy who made Haiyoru Nyaruani...you know the shows that were made more or less completely with flash. As funny and/or ridiculous as some of his shows were, they were really bad in the end. Reibai-Sensei is apparently a step up, but I can't say much since I haven't seen it from this season. Nevertheless, Tana's works are usually no more than 5 minutes long each episode.
 
Blade
Blade is the 4th and final (thank god) Marvel Comics and Madhouse Studios (Death Note, Dennou Coil, Akagi) collaboration project. Iron Man, Wolverine, and X-Men were the three previous titles. Mitsuyuki Masuhara (Kobato, Chi's Sweet Home, Gungrave) will direct the series while Kenta Fukasaku will compose the series. Blade Eric Brooks is seeking revenge on Deacon Frost, the vampire lord who killed his mother. His quest eventually takes him to Vietnam, where he discovers a plot by vampires that threatens the whole world. Akio Ootsuka (Black Jack from Black Jack, Mister from Coyote Ragtime Show, Regal Bryant from Tales of Symphonia OVA)  will voice the titular character. Maaya Sakamoto (Haruhi Fujioka in Ouran High School Host Club, Crona in Soul Eater, Nino in Arakawa Under the Bridge) is said to also be voicing a lead character in this show.
Premier Date: Friday, July 1, 2011
Genres: Action, Supernatural, Vampires
Episodes: 12
US License Status: Licensed by G4
Expectations: Poor -- Iron Man and Wolverine were failures. X-Men was okay at best, but still full of holes. At this point, Marvel and Madhouse probably has lost all faith from fans for any potential of a good work. Of course, I'm always open to seeing a surprise (a good one that is). Blade is unlikely to be better than X-Men from this past season, but who knows, maybe with a completely new screenwriter on-board they can crank out a solid show.

Ro-Kyu-Bu!
Based on the sports comedy light novel by Sagu Aoyama. Subaru Hasegawa is a member of Nanashiba High School's basketball club. However, the club leader falls in love with the 11 year old daughter of the coaching teacher, and eventually causes the club to be suspended. Subaru is then asked by his aunt to coach an elementary school's girl's basketball club. Keizou Kusakawa (Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A's, Asura Cryin', Dog Days) will direct the series while Michiko Itou (Ookami-san to Shichinin no Nakama-tachi) will compose the script. Yuuki Kaji (Akina Hiizumi from Yozakura Quartet) will voice Subaru.
Premier Date: Friday, July 1, 2011
Genres: Sports, Comedy, School-Life, Loli.
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Licensed by Sentai Filmworks
Expectations: Mediocre -- Everyone seems to be getting quite hyped about this show. Personally, I'm not seeing much merit in this show. You do have the awesome director on board who make lolis look epic, but Itou is also a novice screenwriter, which leaves much to doubt about how this show will turn out. Whether or not Nanoha A's was a fluke for Kusakawa remains questionable to this day as all his works afterward have been rather poor on average.

Kami-sama no Memochou (God's Notebook)
Based on Hikaru Sugi's mystery light novel. The story follows Alice, a NEET detective girl who solves mysteries from her bedroom, and her assistant, Narumi Fujishima. Katsushi Sakurabi (Shingetsutan Tsukihime, Asatte no Houkou, Gunparade March) will direct the show while Seishi Minakami (To Aru Kagaku no Railgun, Tetsuwan Birdy Decode: 02, Asatte no Houkou) will compose it. J.C. Staff (Hayate no Gotoku!, Shakugan no Shana, Toradora!) will be responsible for the animation. Yui Ogura (Hermit from .hack//Quantum, Kuroneko's sister from Ore no Imouto ga Konna ni Kawaii Wake ga Nai, Mint from Yumeiro Patissiere)  and Yoshitsugu Matsuoka will voice Alice and Narumi respectively.
Premier Date: Saturday, July 2, 2011
Genres: Mystery
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Sentai Filmworks
Expectations: Must Watch -- Now this show looks like a potential gem. I'm still a little uneasy about J.C. Staff's recent run as of late, but you do have a solid director and series composer on board. The PV looks very pretty for this show so J.C. Staff may finally produce a high quality work prior to Shakugan no Shana III (Final) this fall. I'm hoping this show is 24 episodes, though that seems unlikely since J.C. Staff will have their hands full with Shakugan no Shana III (Final) and Bakuman Second Season this fall.

Uta no Prince-sama - Maji Love 1000%
Based on the PSP reverse-harem game. Haruka Nanami goes to a performing arts school that is filled with bishounen. The school pairs each idol with a songwriter. For some reason, however, Haruka finds herself paired with 3 idols but is not allowed to date any of them. Yuu Kou (Giant Killing, Chrno Crusade, Zero no Tsukaima ~Futatsuki no Kishi~) will direct while Tomoko Konparu (Ashita no Nadja, NANA, Onii-sama e...) will compose the script. A-1 Pictures (Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai, Working!!, Fairy Tail) will animate the project while Miyuki Sawashiro (Mint Blancmanche from Galaxy Angel, Shinku from Rozen Maiden, Aruruu from Utawarerumono) will voice Haruka.
Premier Date: Saturday, July 2, 2011
Genres: Bishounen, Music, Shoujo
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Nico Nico Douga (with English Subs)
Expectations: Mediocre -- This just looks bad...but I may be jumping the gun here since we do have the goddess of screenwriters on this show. In addition the works listed above, Konparu has also wrote the script for Kimi ni Todoke, Futakoi, Nodame Cantabile, and Les Miserables: Shoujo Cosette. As much of a goddess as Konparu is at writing a series, I learned my lesson the hard way last season with C so I'm going to go more with my instincts on this one rather than data and downgrade my expectation for this series.

Sacred Seven
This is the so-called "new school battle project" by animation studio Sunrise (Tiger & Bunny, Gundam, Gintama). The caption for this show is "People's memories change the world!" Yoshimitsu Oohashi (Witchblade, Galaxy Angel, Aquarian Age) will direct while Shin Yoshida (Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's, KARAS, Speed Grapher) will compose the series. Notable cast members include Megumi Nakajima (Ranka Lee from Macross Frontier, Kaede Sakura from Kampfer, Citron from Basquash!), Iori Nomizu (Nymph from Sora no Otoshimono, Haruna from Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?, Minatsuki Takami from Deadman Wonderland), and Miyu Irino (Jinta Yadomi from Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai, Saji Crossroad from Gundam 00, Syaoran from Tsubasa Chronicle).
Premier Date: Saturday, July 2, 2011
Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Mecha
Episodes: 25?
US License Status: Licensed by Bandai
Expectations: Decent -- This series is a huge toss up. Sunrise's second consecutive original work. Tiger & Bunny, albeit ongoing, really turned itself around and surprised me. It's actually a lot better than I gave it credit for. Sunrise has always been decent with original titles so there's some hope there. The cast for Sacred Seven is good, the art is a bit odd, but the mechs are fantastic looking (or at least for now). There is little known about this series still so it's hard to given any huge say, but Shin Yoshida has proven to be a strong writer if given time to develop the plot. The director, on the other hand is more infamous than anything else...This is a wait and see series.

Nurarihyon no Mago: Sennen Makyou
The sequel to Nurarihyon no Mago from last summer. Not much to say here except that it's a shounen, demon show that follows Rikuo Nura who is a 1/4 demon and has chosen to succeed his grandfather as the next head of the Nura Demon Clan. All cast members are expected to reprise their roles from the previous season. Staff members have changed a little with the show now directed by Michio Fukuda (Hyakko) and Hideaki Koyasu (Akikan!) composing the story.
Premier Date: Sunday, July 3, 2011
Genres: Action, Adventure, Demons, Shounen 
Episodes: 26?
US License Status: Licensed by Viz
Expectations: Mediocre -- Nurarihyon no Mago Season 1 got interesting towards the end of the show, but the lack of significant action really makes me skeptical about the second season. Hopefully with most of the introductions now out of the way, things will finally get more interesting...or so I hope. I'll keep my expectations low for now though since there has been a change of staff, especially with the staff having little experience in the industry overall...not to mention pretty poor ones at that too. 

Ikoku Meiro no Croisee (La Croisee dans un labyrinthe etranger) 
Set in the second half of the 19th century, Japan's culture is gradually becoming more popular in the western countries. Yune, accompanies French traveler, Oscar, on his journey back to France. Despite wanting to help with Oscar's family shop, Oscar's nephew, Claude, is reluctant. The story is about how Yune, Oscar, and Claude, all of whom have very little in common grow to understand each other in this revolutionary period. Kenji Yasuda (Noein -Mou Hitori no Kimi e-, Shugo Chara!) will direct the series while Junichi Satou (Aria the Animation, Tamayura) will compose. Satelight (Macross Frontier, Shugo Chara!, Sousei no Aquarion) will be in charge of animation. Takashi Kondou (Akuto Sai from Ichiban Ushiro no Daimaou, Toriko from Toriko OVA, Ken Sugisaki from Seitokai no Ichizon), Hideyuki Tanaka (Captain Falcon from F-Zero Falcon Densetsu, Beast from X-Men, D from Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust), and Nao Touyama (Ni-chan from Ao no Exorcist, Tiger Sugatame from Star Driver, Kanon Nakagawa from Kami Nomi zo Shiru Sekai) will voice Claude, Oscar, and Yune, respectively. 
Premier Date: Sunday, July 3, 2011
Genres: Historical 
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Sentai Filmworks
Expectations: Decent -- The story is from the illustrator of the GOSICK light novels. So that's a plus and with Satelight backing this, it's going to look pretty. Staff wise is very solid. Junichi Satou has not done many series compositions but has done a ton of original works and director roles, most notably the ARIA series. With that said, if this is going to be a slice of life like show in the 19th century, it has a very good potential of being good. I'll be keeping my eye on this one for sure.

Natsume Yuujin-chou San
The third installment of the Natsume Yuujinchou series. Natsume Takashi has the ability to see spirits. He obtains a book from his deceased grandmother that explains to him the phenomenon of why he can see spirits. By inheriting the book, Natsume is forced to form a contract with the spirits that surrounded him. As a result, Natsume becomes determined to free the spirits and dissolve such contracts. All casts and staff are expected to reprise their respective roles. 
Premier Date: Monday, July 4, 2011
Genres: Fantasy, Demons, Shoujo 
Episodes: 13
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Must Watch -- I actually haven't see the first two installments of this show, but from what I've been told, this is basically Mushishi but better. At first I can't comprehend of how you could get better than Mushishi in this department, but heck, if it's got a third season, I'm definitely interested. Hopefully will get around to it by the end of summer.

Kaitou Tenshi Twin Angel: Kyun Kyun Tokimeki Paradise!!
Based off characters of a popular slot machine game in Japan. Haruka Minazuki and Aoi Kannazuki are students at St. Cherine Academy who have the secret of turning into the "Twin Angels" that fight against the villains of the town. Mamiko Noto and Yukari Tamura will reprise their roles as Aoi and Haruka, respectively. Yoshiaki Iwasaki (Love Hina, Zero no Tsukaima, Hayate no Gotoku!!) will be the new director while Michiko Itou will be the series composer. J.C. Staff will be animating the work.
Premier Date: Monday, July 4, 2011
Genres: Mahou Shoujo 
Episodes: 12
US License Status: Nico Nico Douga and CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Poor -- Whoever thought bringing back the horrid 2008 OVA was a good idea must be a bit crazy. That OVA was terrible and this franchise should stay dead in the anime world. I will be surprised if this show can prove me wrong however. I mean, heck, Tantei Opera Milky Holmes sure did earlier this year and mind you, that was a J.C. Staff work too. 

Yuru Yuri
Four middle school girls: Akari Akaza, Yui Funami, Kyouko Toshinou, and Chinatsu Yoshikawa, take over the club room of the former tea ceremony club for their own amusement. The comedy shoujo-ai life of these girls have just only began. Masahiko Oota (Minami-ke, Mitsudomoe, Yoake Mae Yori Ruriiro na ~Crescent Love~) will direct the show while Aoshima Takashi (same shows) will compose the series. Doga Kobo (Hoshizora e Kakaru Hashi, Koihime Musou, Myself;Yourself) will animate the show. Shiori Mikami, Minami Tsuda (Kibago/Axew in Pokemon: Best Wishes, Phryne in Fractale), Yuka Ootsubo, Rumi Ookubo (Aiko in Suite Precure, Kaho Hiiragi in Freezing) will voice Akari, Yui, Kyouko, and Chinatsu, respectively. 
Premier Date: Monday, July 4, 2011
Genres: Comedy, Slice-of-Life, School-Life, Loli, Shoujo-ai
Episodes: 12
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Mediocre -- This is basically sounding a lot like a cross between A Channel and Softenni from last season. Other than that, this show's art looks bad, which doesn't surprise me as you have the same animation studio from Hozhizora e Kakaru Hashi involved. Not much is known about this title, so all I can do for now is judge a book by its cover. 

Kamisama Dolls
Kyouhei Kuga moved away from Tokyo to forget the events that had happened there. One night while out drinking with his friends, he and his neighbor, Hibino Shiba, discover a dead body in an elevator. Kyouhei is later informed by his sister, Utao, that their old friend, Aki Kuga and a Kamisama Doll are involved. Seiji Kishi (Angel Beats!, Seto no Hanayome, Tentai Senshi Sunred) is directing while Makoto Uezu (School Days, Seikon no Qwaser, Katanagatari) is composing. Brains Base (Natsume Yuujinchou, Spice and Wolf II, Baccano!) will provide the animation. Nobuhiko Okamoto (Rin Okumura from Ao no Exorcist, Makoto Kashino from Yumeiro Patissiere, Takumi Usui from Kaichou wa Maid-sama!), Misato Fukuen (Yin from Darker than Black, Yami from To Love-Ru, Yoshika Miyafuji from Strike Witches), Ai Kayano (Isana Tachibana from Yumekui Merry, Meiko Honma from Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai), and Ryouhei Kimura (Kakuta from C, Psy from Heroman, Hinata from Angel Beats!) will voice Kyouhei, Utao, Hibino, and Aki, respectively. 
Premier Date: Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Genres: Action, Drama, Supernatural
Episodes: 13
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Mediocre -- Brains Base has generally been known for producing solid works. But this one seems up in the air with the staff behind this show. Makoto Uezu is really flaky, often producing fantastic works at times and really terrible works at other points. Like many other shows this season surprisingly, there's a lack of info on this title with only one week prior to its airing. 

Morita-san wa Mukuchi
Based on the manga by Tae Sano. The show is a slice-of-life show that follows Mayu Morita's daily life. She is extremely polite and thoughtful to the point that she does not say anything to anyone in high school. Naotaka Hayashi (supervises Steins;Gate) will direct the project. Not much is known about this project aside from the OVA that was released in February earlier this year. Kana Hanazawa (Ruri Gokou from Ore no Imouto ga Konna ni Kawaii Wake ga Nai, Kanade Tachibana from Angel Beats!, Nadeko Sengoku from Bakemonogatari) will voice as Mayu. 
Premier Date: Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Genres: Slice-of-Life, Comedy, School-Life 
Episodes: 12
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Mediocre -- Again, a lack of info on this project. The only lead that we have is the OVA released in February, which is done by the same staff. It was pretty average, so I'd say it's a fair guess that the show will also be along this line. 

Nyanpire The Animation
Based on a popular doujinshi about a vampire cat. Takahiro Yoshimitsu will direct the show while Natsuko Takahashi (Moyashimon, Togainu no Chi, Tokyo Magnitude 8.0) composes. GONZO (Saki, Full Metal Panic!, Kaleido Star) will provide the animation. 
Premier Date: Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Genres: Unknown
Episodes: 12
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectations: Poor -- This is the new Gonzo? I thought that at least with the new Last Exile coming out, they would do something better than this. This is the first work in a couple years from them and all I can do is facepalm.

Usagi Drop
With C and Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai concluded, here is the first of the two new Noitamina works this season. Usagi Drop. Daikichi Kawachi is a bachelor who returns home for his grandfather's funeral....of course, he happens to discover at the same time that his grandfather had an illegitimate child during the time he was gone. As a result, the rest of the family wants to have nothing to do with this child, Rin, leaving Daikichi to take her in. What will this mean for Daikichi's love life? Kanta Kamei (Tales of Vesperia ~The First Strike~) will direct this show while I.G. Production (FLCL, Blood+, xxxHolic) will provide the animation. Hiroshi Tsuchida (Perkins from CAT SHIT ONE, Skull Man from The Skull Man) and Ayu Matsuura will voice Daikichi and Rin respectively. 
Premier Date: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Genres: Josei, Drama 
Episodes: 11
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Must Watch -- Noitamina shows have always been interesting to watch. Be it good or bad, they give shows a new taste. We got both ends of the spectrum last season with Ano Hana and C. With I.G. now involved (again), it will be interesting to see how they fare with an even tougher bar in the romance, drama genre. 

No. 6
Based on a Sci-Fi novel by Atsuko Asano, who also wrote Telepathy Shoujo Ran, animation studio BONES (Star Driver, GOSICK, RahXephon) will now be involved in their second Noitamina project. Kenji Nagasaki will direct the show while Seishi Minakami will compose. The story is set in No. 6, a future 2013 city. Shion is a top-ranking elite agent living in this area. However, on his 12th birthday, a boy known as Nezumi runs away from the city's special security. Shion rescues the boy, but as a result, his life has now changed forever. 
Premier Date: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Genres: Josei, Sci-Fi 
Episodes: 11
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Must Watch --The second Noitmaina show of the season. I.G. and BONES are working on the two projects, and both look equally convincing. It's a shame that neither are originals like last season, but regardless, they're bound to be worth a watch. The staff on this show is interesting in that Kenji Nagasaki hasn't had much directing experience whereas Seishi Minakami has had a decent amount of composition (see Kami-sama no Memochou). Either way I look forward to this.

The IDOLM@STER
Adaptation of the XBOX 360 Idolmaster 2 game that follows a career of a producer working for 13 pop idols. Atsushi Nishigori will supervise the project while Touko Machida composes (Ookami Kakushi, Lucky Star, Allison to Lillia). A-1 Pictures will provide the animation. No further details are provided.
Premier Date: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Genres: Music, Shoujo 
Episodes: 13?
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Mediocre -- This is probably a lot of otaku's dreams come true. The popular Idolmaster is finally getting a fully anime adaptation. What the heck they'll do is beyond me. As much as I love Idolmaster, it's plainly a bad idea for an anime adaptation. I still recall the OVA from 2008 that was boring. Not much to say here since I have no clue as to how they'll approach this. Maybe 1 episode per girl if not 2 (making the series 26 episodes instead obviously)? However, Nishigori is a brilliant guy, so maybe he'll pull something. Story, I probably have little to no hope since Machida has rarely produced anything solid. 

Blood-C
A new and original Blood anime project between I.G. Production and CLAMP (Card Captor Sakura, Code Geass, Chobits). Tsutomu Mizushima (Shinryaku! Ika Musume, xxxHolic, Genshiken) will be directing while Nanase Ookawa, who is a member of CLAMP, will be the lead on the story. Nana Mizuki (Cure Blossom/Tsubomi Hanasaki from Heartcatch Precure!, Lan Fan from Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Fate Testarossa from Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha) will voice this Blood anime project's Saya. A 2012 movie is also planned for this project.
Premier Date: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Genres: Fantasy, Vampires 
Episodes: ?
US License Status: Nico Nico Douga (with English Subs)
Expectations: Must Watch -- And here we have what is likely the best show this season. Everything about this show just spells amazing. Solid animator, solid staff, and a solid cast. Whether or not this pulls through is another story, but generally speaking the Blood projects have been successful before, so it has a good chance of succeeding again. 

Mayo Chiki!
Based on the light novel by Hajime Asano. Subaru Konoe is a bishounen who serves as a butler for Kanade Suzutsuki. Unfortunately for Subaru, Kinjirou Sakamachi accidentally discovers Subaru's secret, the fact that Subaru is actually a girl. Keiichirou Kawaguchi (Zettai Karen Children, Kowarekake no Orgel, supervision of Ore no Imouto ga Konnan ni Kawaii Wake ga Nai) will direct while Reiko Yoshida (Chu-Bra!!, K-ON!, Maria-sama ga Miteru) will compose the series. Feel (Kiss x Sis, Yosuga no Sora, Da Capo Second Season) will be in charge of animation.
Premier Date: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Genres: Comedy, Harem, School-Life, Slapstick, Traps, Cross-Dressing, Ecchi 
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectations: Mediocre -- The first thing I saw was Feel is in charge of the animation. Considering this show is a harem ecchi show, I'm sensing something along the lines of something explicit. Reiko Yoshida has done ecchi shows before, but most of which have been weird, including this one. As good as Kawaguchi is at direction, I can't see this show doing all to well. Plus, we have a new Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu series already coming this season, and thus our trap for the season. 

Mawaru PenguinDrum
A new original work by Revolutionary Girl Utena's and Sailor Moon's director Kunihiko Ikuhara. The show will focus on the Takakura siblings: Himari, Kanba, and Shouma. No further information is available. Brains Base will provide the animation.
Premier Date: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Genres: Unknown 
Episodes: 24
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectations: Decent -- To be honest, I saw the PV for this show and didn't like it despite seeing all the commercials for it and loving those instead. However, the exact same thing happened with Ano Hana 3 months ago (until the second PV came out and changed my view completely). Therefore, I'm going to give this show the benefit of the doubt, but simultaneously be a bit conservative. This show has some good potential. It's an original work and you have a genius director behind it. He made all 200+ awesome episodes of Sailor Moon as well as Utena. Sadly, those were his only projects and thus has disappeared for a decade only to return now, meaning he may be out of the loop. Hopefully his genius will turn this series into a potential gem of the season and encourage some creativity in this industry.

Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni!
Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu returns with a much anticipated sequel after its first season in 2010 and a follow-up OVA earlier this year. Fumizuki Academy is a school that creates classes based on student exam grades (A through F). Yoshii Akihisa is placed in the lowest ranked class as the idiots among idiots. However, he and his classmates vow to use their monsters to battle the higher ranked classes, ultimately hoping to lounge in the wonderful Class A classroom.
Premier Date: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Genres: Action, Traps, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance, School-Life, Super-Deformed. 
Episodes: 13?
US License Status: Licensed by Funimation
Expectations: Must Watch -- While not the most promising looking show, Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni is likely going to be the most entertaining series this summer similar to last year. It is a show, that if familiar with the first season and OVA, you'll recall the great laughs and hysteria inovlved. Baka to Test 2 is likely the most anticipated show along with Natsume Yuujinchou San as they are the two sequels this season that most people have had exposure to already, let alone enjoyed.  

Itsuka Tenma no Kuro-Usagi
Based on the light novel by Takaya Kagami (The Legend of the Legendary Heroes). Taito Kurogane has had sleeping problems where he keeps on dreaming about a female vampire claiming that she has given him her "poison." One day, Taito gets involved in an accident that should have killed him, only to find out that his dreams are actually reality. An OVA is also expected to be bundled with the ninth volume of the light novel later this year. Takashi Yamamoto (Final Approach, Nanasuiro Drops, Jewelpet Tinkle) will direct and Shigeru Morita will compose. ZEXCS (Da Capo, Onii-chan no Koto Nanka Zenzen Suki Janaindakara ne!!, Koukaku no Regios) will animate while Shinnosuke Tachibana (Minato Sahashi from Sekirei, Sana Hidaka from Myself;Yourself, Benvolio from Romeo x Juliet) will voice Taito.
Premier Date: Friday, July 8, 2011
Genres: Demons, Fantasy, School-Life, Vampires 
Episodes: 12
US License Status: Nico Nico Douga and CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Mediocre -- I want to say that this should be a "Decent" rating because of how awesome The Legend of the Legendary Heroes ended up being, but the staff has me worried here. Not very appealing, and lack of good experience. If they stick to the source material, this show could perhaps be good, though I have never seen the source material before unlike The Legend of the Legendary Heroes, so it could be bad to begin with. 

Nekogami Yaoyorozu
Yuzu Komiya is running an antique shop. Mayu is a cat god/nekogami who is freeloading at Yuzu's shop and playing games daily. Everyday, different gods visit Mayu. Hiroaki Sakurai (Di Gi Charat, Les Miserables: Shoujo Cosette, GA: Geijutsuka Art Design Class) is the director, Touko Machida is writing the script, and AIC Plus+ (Asobi ni Iku yo!, Nana to Kaoru OAD) will provide animation. Yui Horie (Eri Sawachika from School Rumble, Minori Kushieda from Toradora!, Hanyuu from Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai) will voice Yuzu while Haruka Tomatsu (Naruko Anjou from Ano Hana, Aoba Tsukishima from Cross Game, Sakana from Star Driver) voices Mayu.
Premier Date: Saturday, July 9, 2011
Genres: Comedy 
Episodes: 13?
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Mediocre -- As much as I love who's voicing Mayu and Yuzu, this show lacks any appeal at first glance so I'm rather skeptical. However, if this show becomes the next Di Gi Charat (same director), then by all means I welcome it since I really do miss Di Gi Charat. It's certainly giving off that feeling, but again, I'm not entirely convinced at this point. It lacks something....

R-15
Based off the light novel by Takuya Fujima and Hiroyuki Fushimi. Taketo Akutagawa is a porn novel writer who attends the famous Hirameki Academy for geniuses with outstanding talents. To contribute, Taketo plans to lead his class using his porn writing skills in winning competitions at the school. Munenori Nawa (Fortune Arterial: Akai Yakusoku, Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu, Otome wa Boku ni Koishiteru) is the director and Sumio Uetake (Kannazuki no Miko, Kyoshiro to Towa no Sora, Angel Heart) is the screenwriter. AIC (Ah! My Goddess, Amagami SS, Hourou Musuko) will animate the series. A related OVA is also planned for this show to be released on December 20, 2011 from volume 10 of the light novel. Aya Gouda (Q-feuille from Kiddy Girl-and, Saraswati from Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?) will voice Taketo.
Premier Date: Saturday, July 9, 2011
Genres: School-Life, Ecchi 
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Nico Nico Douga and CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Poor -- This show just reeks of failure. I mean if this was another show like Ore no Imouto involve eroge, then that would be a completely different story, but as the title of the series likely implies, it's going to be involving a lot of ecchi. Not that I hate ecchi, but usually shows that try to use this to drive plot like Seikon no Qwaser will fail miserably. 

Manyuu Hikenchou
Set in the Taiheimeji Era ruled by Tokugawa Shogunate. A group of warriors known as the Manyuu Clan strongly supports the government. In addition, breasts meant everything, particularly wealth and popularity. Lacking them mean that you were not a woman/human. Chifusa Manyuu is the successor to the clan but despises it for creating the cruel world she currently lives in. As a result, Chifusa attempts to steal the secret scroll possessed by the clan to undo the world that the Manyuu Clan has helped create. Hiraku Kaneko (Seikon no Qwaser) will direct the show, Seishi Minakami will compose, and Hoods Entertainment (Aki Sora, Seikon no Qwaser) will provide the animation. Minako Kotobuki (Tsumugi Kotobuki from K-ON!, Blue Rose/Lyle Karina from Tiger & Bunny, Yuuko from A Channel) will voice Chifusa.
Premier Date: Sunday, July 10, 2011
Genres: Action, Ecchi, 
Episodes: 13?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectations: Poor -- And just when you thought things could not get any worse this season. The Seikon no Qwaser team brings another show involving breasts...this time centered around growing them...yeah this is just asking for trouble. No further comment. 

Dantalian no Shoka (Bibliotheca Mystica de Dantalian)
Based on Gakuto Mikumo's light novels. Hugh Anthony Disward inherited from his grandfather an old estate housing a special book collection. There, Hugh meets Dalian, a girl dressed in black dress reading the books one by one. Hugh later finds out that the mysterious Dalian controls the gateway to the forbidden books of dark wisdom. Yutaka Uemura will be the director and GAINAX (Neon Genesis Evangelion, Panty and Stocking with Garterbelt, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann) will provide the animation. Miyuki Sawashiro and Daisuke Ono (Itsuki Koizumi from The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, Yukito Kunisaki from AIR, Battler Ushiromiya from Umineko no Naku Koro ni) will voice Dalian and Hugh respectively. An OVA is also planned to be released on January 20, 2012.
Premier Date: Friday, July 15, 2011
Genres: Magic, Supernatural 
Episodes: 13
US License Status: Nico Nico Douga and CrunchyRoll
Expectations: Must Watch -- Easily a yes. This is GAINAX involved in yet another action-looking/supernatural series. When GAINAX gets their hands on something like this, it usually means "yes." While the director may be completely new, I doubt GAINAX will let him fail that easily. The show also has a feel similar to the beginning of the recently concluded GOSICK. Hopefully this show will be another successful GAINAX work.

Rollover TV Series
*does not include shows that have continued indefinitely for 2+ years. Also does not include OVAs/OADs, or movies. Parentheses = starting season.

**Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai True Route Ending is not included since it will conclude by May 31, 2011 via webcast. 
***At the moment, some of these shows are unknown as to whether they will continue to go on throughout the summer. Such shows have been marked with a "?"

No comments:

Post a Comment