| | Alternate title : xxxHOLiC: Spring Dreams Chronicle
Studio : Production I.G.
Length : Unknown
Year : 2009
Genre : Adventure - Supernatural
Synopsis :
This OAV takes place after the second season, xxxHolic:Kei, and covers a small section of the manga. Watanuki is beginning to slip in and out of dreams, loosening his grasp on 'reality,' all the while continuing to tighten his bonds of friendship with Doumeki, Yuuko, and Kohane.
Added : 2009-02-26
Synopsis by : AJtheFourth
Last update : 2009-12-03
Last update details : Seiyuu added
Score : 9
Number of reviews : 1
Song(s) :
Opening #1 : Suga Shikao - Sofa
Ending #1 : Azu - Cherish
Release(s) :
2010-01-31 -- Episode(s) 1-2 by AnimeOne & Diffusion. BT Link
2010-01-31 -- Episode(s) 1-2 by AnimeOne & Diffusion. BT Link
2009-11-03 -- Episode(s) 2 by AnimeOne & Diffusion. BT Link
Found 15 releases. Click here to [ Find them! ]
Hits : 5341
[ Go Back to Main Page - Go Back - Post review ]
| |
Spot a mistake ? Want to send fresh information ?
[ Message an admin ]
Got a synopsis?
[ Send a synopsis ]
Found the latest episode?
[ Submit a new release ]
|
Posted by : Terentius 
Posted on : 2009-12-03  
xxxHolic: Shunmuki is a 2 episode OVA that acts as a sequel of sorts to the events of xxxHolic: Kei. In addition to the usual cast there were some surprise cameos later on.
Animation
Again, the same dark and almost grainy look of Production I.G.'s efforts were continued with Shunmuki. I almost was repulsed by the insectoid like stick appearance of the character designs by CLAMP when I watched the first season 2 years ago but I eventually grew to appreciate the style of their production. Being a predominantly dark-coloured show, I never expected anything overly bright as it would have spoilt the mood. Thankfully when the other characters from another CLAMP production made their appearances the dark water-coloured animation was kept. The animation quality remains as stylised as ever and as a result remains an acquired taste. I've become quite accustomed to it and it has now become a trademark of sorts for any xxxHolic production.
Story
The first episode was a mostly character driven, friendship development tale exploring the growing relationships of Watanuki with the other characters. However a more discernible story started to arise towards the last third of the first episode that continued onto the second instalment. Watakuki and Doumeki's search for 5 treasures was handled well. Each item had its own mini-story that kept me captivated with legends and myths from Japan's history. For a treasure hunt, it wasn’t as bad as I had thought!
Characters
The growing friendship between Watanuki and Doumeki was explored decently in these 2 short stories. The involvement of major characters from another of CLAMP's works, Tsubasa Chronicles saga was at first very confusing. It was only later when I started watching the first season of Tsubasa Chronicles that I finally understood their 'cross-over' into Shunmuki. It was a shame that Himawari's appearances were fleeting.
Music/Sound
Much like the animation, Suga Shikao has become a trademark by once again providing the OP with his song "Sofa". Once again it was a lovely song that rivals the OPs used in the first and second season. The ED "Cherish" by Azu was a very chilled, jazzy number that I enjoyed listening to. The voice acting again was very good and I was impressed once more by Jun Fukuyama's Watanuki. A special mention of praise must also go to the actor and actress Sayaka Ohara and Kazuya Nakai, who played the self-indulgent Yoko and the stiff/pragmatic Doumeki respectively. I can never imagine anyone else from the industry playing these characters and I hope no one ever does.
Summary
I've become quite a fan of the xxxHolic franchise and after belatedly obtaining a copy of this OVA, I have to say that I have remained impressed with the efforts. Things have steadily improved from the first season, through to the second season and now to these 2 OVAs. Fans would love these OVAs, but I feel that casual fans might get lost with the 'cross-over' of another franchise and the advanced character development between Watanuki and Doumeki. So I would recommend at the bare minimum, watching the second season (preferably watch both seasons beforehand). Shunmuki will be immensely enjoyable for fans but merely watchable for the casual anime viewers.
|
|
|
|
|
There are currently, 263 guest(s) and 12 member(s) that are online.
You are Anonymous user. You can register for free by clicking here
|
|
|
|
|
