Toradora! (2008–2009)
8/10
Coming of age, self-discovery, and growth well done...
5 September 2020
Yes, it's another teen coming of age / "slice of life" anime, it has many of the classic character stereotypes represented, and yes many of the classic tropes are represented, but unlike so many others it's well done.

What surprised me is how naturally the series develops.

The characters are simple but not one dimensional, depth is obtained through flawed but very human choices and the consequences of them. Tropes are present but instead of being shoehorned in they exist as integral parts of the story, often noticed after the fact instead of standing out like the "fan-service" we've come to expect (and often dread). Episodes flow well, without the gaps and jumps I've grown to expect and when the end is reached it felt natural.

It would be easy to go on, but in the end it's an enjoyable series that makes me interested in taking a second look at the "Slice of Life" genre.

Pro's:
  • Quality story telling.
  • Fairly consistent animation.
  • Characters that feel natural.
  • A compete story arc.
  • Good depth and growth.


Con's:
  • Some animation inconsistencies at the end.
  • Ending arc could have used another episode.
  • Some over the top silliness.
  • Fairly predictable (still very enjoyable).
11 out of 12 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed