Short Synopsis: This was definitely an Akizuki-episode, as he closes the story by defeating Kakunojou, Soutetsu and the Lord’s Head.
Good: Akizuki vs Kakunojou was so sweet.
Bad: What exactly was the role of the troupe in the later half of this anime again?
Overall Enjoyment Value: 8/10
And thus ends Bakumatsu Kikansetsu Irohanihoheto, one of the best series to hit last year’s fall-season. Again, the ending was as solid as ever. I loved the confrontation between Akizuki and Kakunojou, while Soutetsu’s fight was a bit predictable, though. The epilogue itself was nice enough, and I was surprised to hear that Kakunojou actually is using a fake name for herself. Soutetsu also reveals a final part of his background before he dies, which involves his meeting with Sakamoto Ryouma. It seems that Soutetsu told Sakamoto about the plans he had, though Sakamoto disapproved of them. I’m not sure what kind of effect this had.
Like I said, Bakumatsu has been a really solid series, but ever since Rook died, this solidness did show one disadvantage: the rather straightforward plot. Rook’s death, and Kakunojou’s cutting of Akizuki were the last major plot twists in this anime. After that, it’s been a straight race towards the finish, in which Akizuki catches up with Enomoto, all unimportant side-characters die, while the Lord’s Head and Soutetsu are taken care of in the final episode. While this does make for some very solid storytelling, it could have been more exciting. I would have loved a few major twists towards the end, like in episode 13 or 18, but alas.
Overall, I’m glad I watched and blogged this series. There’s no denying that for me, this was one of the highlights of the Fall-season. It’s not the best series of that season (that title goes to Red Garden), but it’s definitely been lots of fun watching this. Thanks w, for explaining some of the more difficult parts of the storyline.]]>
Bakumatsu Kikansetsu Irohanihoheto – 26
She would be going under a false name because Kakunojou is really a guy’s name (the “jou” part that they used is used for stage names for kabuki actors – who were all male if you remember).
I like how the show ended without having to take the usual route, there’s separation and stuff…
Well, it’s indeed hard to do a good ending. I mean, it’s not the first time separation has been used. But indeed, it could have gone way worse.
sniiffff ….
I just finished watching. I was expected more of the two of them together, but I’m glad that it’s in a peace condition.
Also, I was excited to see our hero wearing a suit!! Doesn’t he look nice??
i thought it was a good anime, not the most exciting though, if only it was more exciting like fate stay night… *sigh*
I wonder what the real name of Kakunojou is… Does it have some connection with Youjiro? Like… they are siblings? Naah…
Hehe, nice idea. But if she was his sister, she probably would have told him so, or either acted surprised when she first heard his name. 😛
Hmmm… that makes sense. I just watched ep. 25 and 26 and began to think… Sakyounosuke Kanna always seemed to have deep feelings for Kakunojou. Also, the portrait of Kanna’s mother and Kakunojou’s face resembles each other. I hope Kakunojou’s not Kanna’s sister. Remember the lyrics of Temari no Uta, which tell about a boy and his sister? Imagine what Kakunojou will think if she finds out her brother was killed by the man she loves… Maybe I’m thinking too far, but if it’s true, that’s a new story to begin with. -sigh- I just want to know what Kakunojou’s real name is… (it’s bugging my mind :I)
yup ur absolutely rite Red Garden was a great anime and Bakumatsu was as well
Does the two of them really do like each other that its a great poss of them gettin married ;>