Overall: 6.5
Better than the sum of its parts, Takahashi litters her series with jokes, which makes every episode
enjoyable as the slapstick grates.
Story/Character Development: 5.0
Absurd but inventive, the plot recognizes no constraints. However, less development than quirks, predictably selfish
and irritable behavior reduces each character to basic types, opening the arena for jokes but making each presence on the
screen an un-likeable, caustic narcissist.
Art/Animation: 7.0
Even though it's relatively primitive, Takahashi understands the limits of this television format and exploits it for
optimal effect, making the visual shortcomings part of the style rather than an impediment.
Translation: 8.0
The team at Animeigo translates well, coupling dialogue with healthy doses of cultural notes that flash across the top
of the screen like academic footnotes. Also, when multiple voice arise, the subtitles appear in different colors.
Format: 5.0
No frills - no extras - no need for it. Animeigo's bare bones release is easy to navigate, but its appeal comes from
the care with which the series is translated. Extensive language and cultural references appear in the liner notes.
MPAA Equivalent: PG
It has a distinct youthful appeal, but some of the more adult situations, and brief, non-articulated flashes of nudity
knock this piece into more cautious waters.
X-Factors
The Selfish Factor: 10.0
Is there no love in this town? Is there no concern for ones fellow man? One’s friends? One’s family? Does altruism
even exist among these malcontents? Does simple respectfulness prevail over cheap insults and shame? The solipsistic energy
that emanates from this cast of miscreants blows the kind of cynicism voiced in "Married With Children" and "Pokemon" out of
the water.
The Lum and Shinobu Factor: 6.9
Who needs Ataru?
