In 2001, manga artist/writer, published a manga series titled, “Bleach.” It follows the adventures of a teenage boy named, Ichigo Kurosaki who becomes a Soul Reaper. A different take on the Grim Reaper, his duty is to protect humans from demon spirits (hollows) and nice spirits (wholes) to the afterlife. Ichigo gathers allies who help him embark in dangerous missions. Five Years Later, an anime adaptation introduced American audiences to the series.
Bleach’s first season officially aired in 2006 (same year Eureka Seven aired) on Adult Swim. It received positive reception from critics and viewers alike. Thanks to its growing popularity, the show spawned fifteen seasons, four movies, video games, rock musicals, merchandise such as t-shirts, toys and collectibles. First time I heard about Bleach, was spending the night with one of my cousins. We often watch anime together before bedtime. A follow up to the show titled, “Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War” will end Ichigo’s story. It’s been awhile since I watched Bleach. Anyway, I’m refreshing my memory going back to the beginning.
This review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to see Bleach’s first season.
Light & Dark Qualities
Light: Johnny Yong Bosch, Michelle Ruff, Stephanie Sheh, Derek Stephen Prince & Quinton Flynn (Axel from the Kingdom Hearts series) all did a superb job for their respective voiceover performances.
Fun Fact: Johnny & Stephanie also worked together in “Eureka Seven.” They voiced Renton Thurston & Eureka. Stephanie’s my all-time favorite voice actress.
Animation looks great as it brings certain elements to life including character models, fluid movement, lighting and environmental locations.
Action Sequences are really good displaying Ichigo fights with hollows using a big sword Cloud wields from “Final Fantasy VII.”
Humor has several Funny Moments that got me crackin’ up. Especially Rukia’s drawings.
Ichigo’s interactions with Rukia and his allies serve as the main highlight.
Pacing wasn’t an issue at all. I was hooked since the first episode. None of them felt repetitive.
The Substitute Reaper arc focuses on Ichigo becoming a Soul Reaper under Rukia’s assistance. He becomes stronger one episode after another.
Some episodes let you know about the mythos involving the Soul Society. They’ve been around for many years.
Character Development involving Ichigo. As the first season progresses, he decides to take full responsibility as a Soul Reaper to protect his loved ones, friends and citizens.
Opening Credits always make me feel pumped up for more action.
The first ending’s song, “Life is Like a Boat” sounds beautiful. My favorite’s the second ending, “Thank You” by Home Made Kazoku.
We learn about Ichigo’s tragic backstory. Besides Ichigo, we also get to know his classmate, Orihime, Kon, an artificial soul inhabited in a stuffed animal and another classmate, Uryu. Don’t forget Rukia.
Besides Ichigo, Orihime also acquires a set of powers.
Ichigo’s friend, Chad really comes in handy for his super strength. He has a habit of pausing before ending a sentence.
Don Kanjoni kinda looks like Snoop Dogg. It would’ve been hilarious if Snoop voiced him.
Season Finale sets up the next story arc, “Soul Society.” Ichigo will face a difficult journey. He’ll need all the help he can get.
Dark: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving the cast and crew an Extra Point for making a flawless season as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
Bleach: The Substitute Soul Reaper is a fantastic start to a great anime series. One season down, fifteen to go until I finally see Thousand-Year Blood War. If you’re new to Bleach, begin with Season 1.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 