Following the success of “Gurren Lagaan,” Gainax animator, Hiroyuki Imaishi founded an independent animation studio known as, “Studio Trigger.” The company worked on their first original project titled, ” Kill la Kill.” It follows Ryuko Matoi who enrolls in high school to hunt down her father’s killer. She obtains an outfit with a mind of its own (like Venom) that grants her powers. His name’s Senketsu. Together, they fight their way through a student council named, Satsuki Kiryuin and club presidents. It’s not that kind of high school series. Action and hilarity ensue. Along the way, Ryuko meets ditzy girl, Mako and her homeroom teacher, Mikisugi.
All 24 episodes and an OVA were split into five volumes on DVD/Blu-Ray in 2014-2015. Kill la Kill earned praise from critics and viewers alike. Anyway, I got plans to attend Fan Expo Dallas 2026. This upcoming three-day event will happen on September 11-13. They’ll be a few anime voice actors/actresses taking pics and signing autographs. I can’t wait.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever. I’m giving you fellas a chance to see this gem.
Powerful & Weak Qualities
Powerful: Erica Mendez, Christine Marie Cabanos, Carrie Keranen & David Vincent all did an excellent job for their respective voiceover performances.
Other Cast Members such as Patrick Seitz, Matthew Mercer, Laura Post and my favorite voice actress, Stephanie Sheh all did a decent job for their respective voiceover performances.
Hiroyuki Imaishi did a terrific job coordinating every episode.
Animation brings several elements to life such as character models, lighting, fluid movement and environmental locations.
Action Sequences are over-the-top. You can tell the animators worked their butts off.
Hiroyuki Sawano (Attack on Titan, Solo Leveling) orchestrated the soundtrack.
Funny Moments made me laugh so hard. A billion times funnier than unfunny Disney sitcoms like “Hannah Montana” & “Jesse.”
The Tone sometimes have absurd moments and fanservice featuring characters in revealing outfits. I didn’t mind. The show’s cohesive writing won me over.
Every single character is memorable. We learn about their lives. They all serve a purpose.
Random Thoughts
- Ryuko’s friendship with Mako reminds me of Ichigo & Orihime from “Bleach.” One’s a tough fighter wearing black. The other’s a ditzy girl who provides comedy.
- First time I watched Kill la Kill, was on Adult Swim.
- Ryuko’s my favorite character.
Pacing for each episode didn’t feel like a slow burn. I was hooked right from the get-go.
Ryuko’s chemistry with Mako & Senketsu serves as the main highlight.
Transformation scenes mimic “Sailor Moon.” Thankfully, not all of ’em didn’t eat the running time.
Besides Ryuko donning Senketsu, each character wears a Goku uniform granting the user unique equipment. Certain ones have strengths and weaknesses. By the way, a Goku uniform is probably named after DBZ’s main protagonist.
Boss Fights never felt repetitive like an episode of Power Rangers. You know, a monster wreaks havoc, heroes mow down henchmen, the monster becomes a giant, the heroes summon their megazord and defeat the monster. The old saying: “Lather, Rinse, Repeat.”
The mythology based on clothing granting powers and abilities is brought up later. It’s a long story.
Character Development involving Ryuko. As the series progresses, she displays a soft spot for Mako & Senketsu.
Episode 18’s Plot Twist changes everything. I did not see that coming. It deserves Bonus Points.
An OVA, “Goodbye Again” takes place in the aftermath of Episode 24.
The show doesn’t end with a follow-up season. It’s a one and done show like my all-time favorite anime, “Cowboy Bebop.” Quality over Quantity.
Weak: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving Studio Trigger an Extra Point for making a unique anime series as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
Kill la Kill’s an awesome anime series. Every single positive aspect indicates why this is a masterpiece. If you’re looking for something unique to watch, Kill la Kill’s a must-watch. Stream it on Crunchyroll. Which anime series should I review next? Please leave a comment.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 