Shakugan No Shana Starts Final Season

It’s been 3 years already since season 2? My, time sure does goes by so fast. Anyway, I’m really glad Shakugan No Shana finally returns with it’s last season! Sorry for the featured image below, I couldn’t find anything better than a magazine scan. It seems they haven’t released that much media yet regarding the third season.

So, “who the hell is that long-haired Dynasty Warrior dude in the middle” you ask? It’s our main protagonist seemingly-turned anti-hero, Sakai Yuji! Apparently, he disappears from season 2 like a burnt-out Torch and has been revived as the leader of the enemy forces, Bal Masque. I know, it’s weird. But who knows? I’ma give it a shot since it just started.

Episode 1 was a bit disappointing though. They kind of went overboard with the melodrama and seriousness which I bet have pushed away potential future fans. The episode was structured in a way that even those who watched both seasons and remembered the events well felt confused and screwed. Awkward plot twist, anyone? Lol. Oh well, you decide for yourself. The download link is below!

Download Episode 1 of Shakugan No Shana III c/o Commie

14 Things You’ll Almost Always See in Anime – Part 2

Here’s part 2! You can read part 1 here.

8. Repetitive name yelling

Ever see characters spending quite some time and effort emotionally yelling their names to each other? The more they say their names, the more intense the scene becomes. The photo above comes from a parody in Minami-ke where the heroines watch a TV drama centering on the forbidden love of Ninomiya-kun and her Sensei. Their script would be nothing more than Ninomiya-kun saying ‘Sensei!’ and the Sensei shouting ‘Ninomiya-kun!’ all the time until they embrace. It’s hilarious!

14 Things You’ll Almost Always See in Anime – Part 1

Upon watching series after series, I’ve noticed recurring patterns in anime that would almost make them rather stereotypical. They’re fun, and it certainly makes watching a new batch of series with a sense of familiarity. On the downside of course, one would know what to expect next. It’s just a matter of how they’d play out the scenes. I bet you’ve noticed these X-factors of Japanese cartoons already. Here’s my list!

1. Japanese Etiquette

This is a given. Since anime is from Japan, proper etiquette and social behaviors are prominent within the characters. Such as bowing, saying “itadakimasu” (I humbly receive) before meals, “okawari” (More, please) and Gochisosama-deshita (Thank you for the food) after. A dramatic scene would include the heroine say “Okaeri” (Welcome home) to the hero after a life-deciding battle, and the hero would respond a heart-warming “Tadaima” (I’m home).