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Tekunoraizu (2003)
First few episodes are alienating, but afterwards becomes accessible and brilliant
With minimal dialogue and an overwhelming emphasis on atmosphere, Texhnolyze's first episode can be off-putting. While there are elements of surrealism in the visuals, this is more of an artistic direction and does not extend to the plot - which for the most part is founded in reality.
While the show's first few episodes were inaccessible and seemingly pretentious, I was surprised that they managed to be entertaining. The overarching plot does not reveal itself until episode 7 of the show. From this point the show becomes far more involved and exciting, and the emotional aspects of characters are developed as the show progresses.
The action sequences are fun to watch but always tasteful, and I think it's the well-handled balance between the violent scenes and more subdued, detached dialogue between characters that made this show great.
The pacing might be alienating to most people, however I never felt that the show tried too hard to appear smart or "artistic".
Texhnolyze is a demanding series - it is not until after episode 10 that each episode becomes filled with clear plot developments - but what is most noteworthy about the series is the final 3 episodes, which are refreshingly beautiful and haunting.
Ano hi mita hana no namae o bokutachi wa mada shiranai. (2011)
A good show brought down by the melodrama
My enjoyment of Anohana was held back by the amount of melodrama and inconsistent characterisation. If more of the minor character developments were handled with subtlety, it would have helped make the relationships between them feel less contrived. Some plot points felt as if they were included purely to get an emotional reaction from the audience, and a lot of interactions and sources of tension come off as superficial.
In spite of this, the ending still retained an emotional impact. While the entire final episode was a bit excessive, it wasn't enough to bring it down.
If you can connect with the characters, you will probably enjoy this show more than I did.