This is my first time properly reviewing so I ask you dear reader to please bare with me! Thank you!!
Season 2 SPOILERS AHEAD!
The Good and the Bad
I would argue that this season had some of the best visuals we have seen from this series thus far. I felt like this season had less harsher outlines, enhanced hair and added outfit details.
For example:
This shot alone had me tearing up and quickly became one of my top 10 favorite close ups of Frieren. (if im being honest this season have given us many amazing/funny shots of her)
When comparing Frieren to her S1 self we can see clear character progression. Sure, Frieren has her little idiosyncrasies but her character is much more then visual character progression. Her progression doesn't stem from physical prowess but rather emotional development. We see this from how she reminiscence her time with Himmel, Heiter, and Eisen. Therefore, reciprocating that same appreciation into her time with Stark and Fern. She has learned to enjoy the present and slowly in the series we are seeing her process how precious time truly is. In some ways she even mirrors the lessons she learned from Himmel. Stark throughout Season 2 remains the heart of the group. His sincerity and warmth can be felt in every scene. Season 2 shows him becoming stronger, more determined, and more capable in battle. This can be seen during his fight with Revolte. His confrontation with Genau was a spectacle as Stark was facing near death and yet pushed passed his limits to eliminate Revolte. I find this to be clear indication of strong character progression from S1 as he was afraid of dying.
Example:
Season 2 gives Fern some of her most expressive moments yet, showing that her growth is not about her magical ability (like in S1) but rather how she feels and connects with others. A big development comes when Stark and Fern FINALLY goes on a date (Episode 4). During this episode Stark and Fern spend time together exploring the town and trying to enjoy themselves despite talking about Frieren and experiencing some awkwardness. This episode isn't just about cute fan service; but rather how Fern is learning to let her guard down. Which also gives the viewer a sense of how there relationship is slowly changing to something more emotional. This can also be seen on how Fern takes care of the lotus gifts Stark gave her. Finally, a standout moment for Fern comes at the end of Episode 10, when she reflects and says, "Because that's what Miss.Frieren would do." Which also mirrors the sentiment of Himmel's line, "Do what a hero would do. but in a more personal way. I believe this also can be compared to the line "It's what the hero Himmel would have done". Ferns version of this quote reflects how she has been influenced by Frieren's guidance and wisdom letting it reshape her.Example:
Lastly, I thought the animation and choreography throughout this season was insane. The fight against Revolte and his underlings was breathtaking. Moreover, Frierens mineral locating spell in (episode 5) caught me off guard. As a manga reader that scene never existed and yet Studio Madhouse decided to feed us GOOD. As usual Evan Call absolutely, blown us out of the water with his music. Sheesh! The music that played when we saw Denken was just chef kiss. Can't wait to see what Evan is cooking up for Season 3.
Example:
Now I do think season 2 could have been better in some areas. I really got bored of the whole "Let's use Stark as bait tactic". As a manga reader I understand why they have to resort to this since a priest (Sein) is currently absent but still. It got boring fast and I felt like they reused that ever since they entered the Northern Plateau. Furthermore, I do feel like Stark should be much stronger then he currently is and I'm hoping future seasons can achieve that. Lastly, I felt like this season could have been longer (10 episodes) just wasn't enough. I understand as to why they did this since the manga is on hiatus and we don't want to extend over to the Golden Land arc. Though it is justifiable it still bothers me I would have appreciated 2 more episodes at least.
I have to give credit where credit is due this season was still impressive for 10 episodes. Therefore, I have to give this season a 100/100 or 10/10. I did find season one to be much better and yet this season still shined.
Though I do have my complaints. I personally, feel like no anime is truly perfect and imperfections can be easily found if you look hard enough. My ratings/reviews are based on how the show impacted me personally and what the series is trying to achieve. If the story has good writing, progression, and decent animation I will rate it well.
The Frieren
Now dear readers enjoy my favorite Frieren shots!!!
Our old hag...I mean girl is so goofy!!
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