Today, I made it to exactly 1,000 songs in my music library. I probably would have made it earlier if I didn’t make it a requirement to purge songs that I’ve grown out of. I don’t know how one would celebrate this.
I have decided to make an effort to watch all SHAFT productions. I might just limit this to SHAFT/Shinbo collaborations, however, since I’m really just a fan of Akiyuki Shinbo. For those who have absolutely no idea what I’m talking about, SHAFT is a Japanese animation studio, and Shinbo is an artist who became a main director in SHAFT productions, giving them their signature look and running gag of cultural references hidden throughout the anime they produce. They have made some of my favorites, like the Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei series, Maria+Holic, Pani Poni Dash, and recently Bakemonogatari.
Despairing teachers have left me in despair.
What other anime has a cast that consists of a suicidal teacher, a hikikomori, a girl who ignores everything negative, a verbally sadistic guidance councilor, a girl who is addicted to pulling animal tails, a yaoi fangirl, a lawsuit-obsessed American girl, an OCD girl, a balding invisible teenage boy, an illegal immigrant, a girl who sends abusive text messages, a stalker, and normal Nami?
While Shinbo has his own following of fans, I somehow doubt that his work would be accepted by the average American viewer. His style is fast-paced and extremely erratic at times. I think that many people would be annoyed that most of the series are involving majority dialogue and less action. The references would also be completely lost on this audience. So, as much of a shame as it is, I doubt these series will become popular here (other than our otaku fanbase). I just wish more people could see his work, because it really is something different.
And now I leave you with a wonderful SHAFT/Shinbo gem, which will make you hate me, because once heard, it will take an eternity to get out of your head. You can thank me later.
Why yes, those are Hwatu (or Hanafuda) cards in there. Neko mimi modo desu~.
so the next goal is obviously over 9000!! correct?
One cannot hope to reach over 9000. Are you mad?