Shakugan no Shana II: Episode 16

Rating: 8/10
Impressions:
I like the calm and tranquillity after the storm in many cases, and not so much the type that exists before the storm. It gives a sense of achievement, as it evaluates the results of the action in the previous episodes, and gives you an idea of what might come next. This particular episode also brings a lot of character development, especially in Yoshida, and although I don’t like her at all, I must approve of this method of execution. If you ask me, Yoshida isn’t going to die any time soon no matter what. She’s been built up as a tremendously strong support character, with all the attention she gets, as well as the acknowledgement from the main characters.
The next episode seems to be not be about the main story, despite the great importance of the things that are already happening: Bal Masque putting their plans into its final stage, Yoshida and her hougu, Yuuji and his training/preparation etc. Of course, I want to know more about the things that I’ve listed than Satou and Margery, but I can say I’m confident enough in the producers, and the novels foremost, to say that however the show continues from now, won’t disappoint. I do think we’re getting close to the latest novel, so that might pose a problem in terms of the show and anime originals, but hopefully, with not many episodes left, that won’t be the case.
This episode introduces a new OP and ED, which is a bit late by usual standards, although the first season of Shakugan no Shana does the same thing. Both songs are sung by Kotoko—the OP is alright, but not that good for her standards, IMO. It could be just that, but I actually think it’s simply due to the different feel of the song in its entirety that reduces my good opinion of it. The ED, on the other hand, is quite generic for a Kotoko song, but IMO is the far better of the two, and I can say that I like it a lot. In terms of animation though, the OP no doubt has the better production, and this time, the producers really have made an effort to make it fantastic.
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In regards to my comment in the post for ep15
I guess it’s just because I don’t like Yoshida that much. Hearing her inner thoughts was certainly something that was needed for her development in the story but my dislike for her kind of ruined that XD
Opening music is pretty weak for Kotoko but it was still pretty enjoyable once the it picked up the pace (still lacks compared to Joint though). I loved the animation though
man, i used to hate yoshida like crazy, especially int he first season. but i think with the introduction of konoe in episode 3 or 4 or whatever that made me hate her for another competitor for yuji, and yoshida’s obvious development into a stronger-willed character, and he gradually developing friendship with shana, i really like her as a character now. to the point that this episode was pretty strong for me. in fact, i wouldn’t be horribly surprised if she DID die by the end of this season…
Good episode. Brings up many possible scenarios for future episodes and involves Kazumi much more, as all major support characters require. I’m not too thrilled about the Eita story but I can see where he’s going with the near-burning out of Ogata.
I’m proud of Yuji. I’ve always been proud because he’s one of those rare male protagonists who really impress me with the cool, nonchalantness of his nature. He keeps fighting on despite all the adversities he faces (and this keeps adding on — jeez, how much can a guy take? He’s already dead for crying out loud…!). Now he wants to wield that hugeass blade and take down enemies like he does in the OP sequence. Amazing…
And I must say, Shana in that headband is pretty cute. She’s becoming more of a human than a flame haze to worry about fashion, among other things.
Xjellocross: i dont like her either lol. i used to hate her so badly in the first season, but ive mostly gotten over it now
Eclipse: i never got THAT far…i still dont like her now =[
Shin: im surprised eitas managed to keep calm until now…
Your reviews of II have made me grab Shakugan no Shana. I think I finished it in almost 2 sittings. Looking forward to watching II now. Thanks
JasonP: no worries, nice to see another person watching Shana
Hey why are you guys hating her so much? I can really real her on not being where Yuji stands. She just wants to have a chance at getting with Yuji, but it seems hes getting farther and farther from her. Shana is cute and can kick ass no doubt, but come on, Yoshida is well endowed why is he not with her? lol
(Just a guys perspective).