This review is relatively spoiler free.
JJBA season 1 was contracted to me by a fellow member on the anicord discord server. Thus, watching this had double the incentive. I was sure to get to jojo's at some point in time, but this really gave me the push I needed to finally get me into the franchise. Therefore, I feel the need to begin by thanking my contractor-RedStar65. Without further ado, let's begin.
PART 1: PHANTOM BLOOD
The first part of jjba, follows Jonathan Joestar on his life's journey. When Jonathan was little, his family adopted Dio Brando-the son of the man who saved Jonathan's father from death. Dio acts as a stepbrother who brings ultimate despair upon Jonathan. Dio pretends to be on good terms with Jonathan while secretly plotting the death of his father. Years later, and after Dio shows his true colors, the adventure unfolds. Jojo must stop Dio and bring an end to his evil ways, as a mask that turns men into vampires is in his possesion.
- Narrative: Part 1 has a simple narrative and a strong one at that. The mask acts as the tool to progress the story while later elements, such as Hamon is incorporated into the plot. Some deaths were quite well done and instead of being sad, they instead act as the beginning of a legacy. If there is one thing to criticize on the narrative aspect, it's just that is a bit too simple. While not detracting from the experience at all, the full potential of the plot points and characters, ultimately go unrealized in part 1.
- Characters: Personal favorites of mine are Dio and Speedwagon. Most are quite surface level characters but are great sources of fun and humor.
- Soundtrack: part 1 has a couple good tracks such as the ending theme. Most are not worth listening to on their own in my opinion as they mostly server to heighten or suite the overall tone and atmosphere of the story and action.
- Quality: The animation, visual style, audio direction, and pacing is all up to standard. While I have heard negatives about part 1, such as it feeling slow, I disagree. I believe part 1 to have a decent pace and beautifully carries itself into part 2.
PART 2: BATTLE TENDANCY
The second part of jjba follows the grandson of Jonathan Joestar-Joseph Joestar-as he uncovers the truths behind the mysteries of the masks in order to save his family and planet earth from the creation of the ultimate lifeform. (I would make a shadow the hedgehog joke somewhere around here, but I'm too unfunny even in the anime space.)
- Narrative: Compared to part 1, Battle Tendancy has a larger tale to tell, and therefore I appreciate the more episodes that were dedicated to it. It begins simple in the back alleys of New York, and ultimately leads to a journey across continents as Jojo must learn to perfect Hamon to defeat Wamuu, Esidisi, and Kars. The origin of the mask from part 1 is revealed and many cool plot points and sequences occur-especially near the end- that I would rather not spoil.
- Characters: I love Joseph! He is my favorite character in the series thus far and can carry scenes on his back. Caesar, Lisa Lisa, Speedwagon, and Stroheim were highlights in the cast that helped add spice to the drama.
- Soundtrack: Some memorable tracks were included in part 2. I recall jamming out to some of these, so headphone users are in for a treat.
- Quality: Pretty much the same as part 1 on all fronts, understandable as it is the same anime season afterall. The ending to part 2 left a dumb smile on my face, and was one of the best parts of my experience.
Conclusion
I loved this series. Anyone looking for some great dynamics and an entertaining watch should give jjba a shot. I know I'm very late to the series, but better late than never. I can't wait to see what stardust crusaders has to offer.
