Mad★Bull 34 1–4
Wearing silly disguises cannot detract from the silly ploys that they're often worn for. But this is a work in which a little* suspension of disbelief is required. Those assassins should have probably worn helmets if they were going to operate chainsaws and throw dynamite while riding double on motorcycles. Anyway, one particular scene from this show is a good example of why cats shouldn't be fed pizza; they might find themselves lured into an oven. And in the chaos of all this, a desperate Cindy cried "only love can end the killing," and it just so happens that Mad Bull is one mean love machine.
Mad Bull (John, aka Sleepy, for those who don't know) and Daizaburo made a good team as they learned to cover each other's backs. Ultimately, Daizaburo cared more about the ends than the means, leading him to eventually accept John's unorthodox practices. After learning how deeply John cares for his precinct and seeing how far he goes to protect it, Daizaburo became more than willing to take the bull by the horns in the line of duty. The transformation of Daizaburo's ideology about law enforcement was key to the teamwork between the two police officers. John cared very much about his friends, Kevin and Lily, and extended that same friendship to his new partner in his own unique way—by planning a surprise party of prostitutes to liberate Daizaburo of his virginity. At their core, the two men shared the same sense of recklessness necessary to face off against the equally reckless tank-riding or claw-shredding assassins and "cop killers." Whether it was running over rollerblading thieves in hockey masks or using hockey gear as protection against a laser-firing menace, they formed a rock-solid unit that followed a special set of procedures. Forgoing conventional law enforcement methodology meant that being laced with emergency grenades as undergarments was not only normal but also appropriate for the the most notorious men of the 34th precinct.
The track that accompanied the ending, just before the closing credits, was actually quite good. It was a deep, mellow fusion of acid jazz and sorrow. Snowfall can work much like rain in its artistic use, but it can also convey a more crystallized yet indifferent nature. A wintry setting fit the finale of the series. Perrine speaks to more than just the city itself when she calls it a "monster" that "feeds on misery"; she alludes to the cold, harsh environment created by metropolitan law and order bloated from indigestion caused by toxic crime. Peacemakers are rarely found at the center behind Mr. Koike's designs, nonetheless, John is another undying embodiment of his appeal to humanity with characters that are simply fueled by a lust for love.
Vividred Operation 6–12
There were some interesting concepts in the show, but it didn't seem interested in touching them beyond the surface. The backstory was tight without room to really lose sight of itself. Additionally, the plot seemed taut with bonding scenarios to flesh out the short stories. It didn't want to dwell on plot
details. This posture made the show easy to watch, as the direction neatly structured individual episodes in a well-seated manner among the series. Despite featuring a science fiction setting apt for a potential train wreck, the viewer looking for one would be chasing a caboose that doesn't stop. At the tail of the series, the final enemy reared towards a vague climax, but the resolution was straightforward. Regardless of repeatedly butting heads, Akane eventually touched bottom in Rei's heart. In the end, everyone gave Akane a good push from behind. Finally, they made rump roast out of that inter-dimensional, oversized crow through the use of "the light of creation," which was actually just "the power of friendship," according to Akane/Rei. After defending her new hometown, Rei returns to her former one through a dimensional backdoor, all thanks to the humanitarian
∞ being.
Akane's breezy
jingle** was infectious. It would have been interesting to see from where and how Rei grabbed her booty of armaments and ammunition. The arena rock style of the music was fine, but perhaps butt-rock might have suited the work just as well. Although I watched this in potato quality, the
action was surprisingly decent enough, and the show looked good and consistent overall. Being both a seasoned animator and the character designer must be a real boon to any directorial role. Perhaps the most impressive thing about the show was how little it betrays
expectations; it really strived to be an all-around pleasant experience.
Bonding seemed to be the overarching theme, from forging friendships to fighting as one when they'd butt up against each other to fuse. All in all, it was an extraordinarily simplistic show with high spirits, and it aimed to celebrate the genres and works it derives its elements from. There was nothing
cheeky about it.
––––––––––
* In retrospect, a
lot was necessary.
** NSFW
.
