A genre that is not often seen or appreciated in the world of anime compared to others is that of music such as Bocchi the Rock. On the other hand, this anime is a stroke of genius that set a trend by combining music with comedy and drama and a novel, colorful animation with striking and very expressive styles. The anime was produced by CloverWorks studio and directed by Kazuya Ichikawa, and the manga was written and illustrated by Aki Hamaji. Let's look together at the best features of this anime which makes it unique and worthy of appreciation.
Synopsis:
This is the story of Hitori Gotō, a high school student with social anxiety who faces difficulties communicating with others and making friends. When she was a little girl, Hitori saw an interview on television where a rock band member claimed that being in a band was beneficial for introverted people. This inspired her to start practicing the guitar in hopes of being able to play in public and be recognized by others. Despite practicing for three years, Hitori does not feel confident enough to share her music and still does not make friends.
However, Hitori demonstrates her musical talent on her online channel, where she uploads videos and gains followers. Despite this, she still struggles to find her place in school life and fulfill her goals. Everything changes when Nijika Ijichi, a drummer at the Starry Club, urgently needs a guitarist for a performance. Finding Hitori, Nijika recruits her for her band, along with Ryo Yamada on bass. Together, they perform their first show, marking a milestone in Hitori's life, although she continues to struggle with her social anxiety and inability to make eye contact with the audience.
As the band, called "Kessoku Band" (which means "unity band" in English), continues its quest for success, Hitori faces several challenges, including recruiting a female vocalist, which leads her to meet Ikuyo Kita who would be the latest member of the band. As the band gets to know each other and plans their future performances, Hitori must struggle to overcome her fears and achieve her goals.
Topic:
One could say that the most important characteristic of the series is that it deals with a real problem that occurs and how it can be the day-to-day life for introverted people and the big steps and efforts they have to make to be able to face their fears that for other people it is very easy for them to do. I think it allows people to see and understand the perspective of people who are shy and find it difficult to do some things that for them may seem like the simplest things to do. Music, drama, and comedy aside, this can be a great visualization that not every person is the same and that everyone must grow at their own pace regardless of whether they are small or large steps.
Animation:
A great characterization of the series was its animation and design as it blends perfectly with the story and with the world of music that Bocchi The Rock wants to communicate. As clarified before, its style is colorful, eye-catching, and expressive. What makes this anime a genuine one is the amazing expressions of the characters combined with animation elements that create a very friendly and digestible atmosphere.
Not only that, but this animation is also very dynamic and fluid, as, for example, the movements of the characters playing the instruments are well synchronized with the music playing in the background.
Approach and Genre:
They could have chosen a completely different approach to this series but what a joy they did not. The way they did the story of this series is something unique. They perfectly combined several variables such as social anxiety, music, drama, and comedy, and delivered a great project with great moments that are hard to forget.
This anime is completely hilarious and provides iconic and hilarious moments that will make you laugh in every episode where they even make hilarious references to other anime!
Music:
Another element that combines very well is the music because they talk about how is the life of the bands day by day or how they have their purposes and future goals. Another interesting part is that they name important things to keep in mind in a band, such as writing the lyrics of a song for the band and how important it is to show your essence in it. They also put a lot of effort in making good music in the opening and endings as well as in the series. The songs played by the bands in this series are really good which makes it friendly to listen to while watching the series. In fact on Spotify there is the official album of the band Kessoku!
Characters:
Another incredible feature of this anime is the diversity of the characters' personalities which shows that each musician has his/her own style and that each one puts his own essence into their band. Besides the musicians, there are also other supporting characters in the series. Some of them are: Hitori Gotoh, Nijika Ijichi, Ryo Yamada, Ikuyo Kita, Seika Ijichi, PA-san, Kikuri Hiroi, Futari Gotoh, Naoki Gotoh, and Michiyo Gotoh.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "Bocchi the Rock" is much more than an anime about music; it is a window into the lives of those who face social anxiety and struggle to overcome their fears. Through the story of Hitori Gotō, the series immerses us in the complex reality of introverted people and shows us the great efforts they must make to find their place in the world. In addition to its profound subject matter, the bright and expressive animation, along with the perfect combination of comedy, drama, and music, make this series truly exceptional. Every element, from the dynamic animation to the exciting musical performances, comes together to deliver a unique and memorable experience. "Bocchi the Rock" not only entertains but also inspires us to appreciate the diversity of human experiences and to celebrate the courage of those who dare to be themselves, one step at a time, on their own journey toward personal growth. With dynamic and expressive animation, along with a captivating soundtrack, "Bocchi the Rock" takes us on an exciting journey filled with music, learning, and above all laughter in every chapter!!!!
What's next?
At the moment a second season has not yet been confirmed but it has already been announced that there will be two movies in 2024, so this will surely not be the last we will see of Bocchi the Rock and I hope that with the great reception it had, a second season can be confirmed later!
Until then you can enjoy the complete first season, here the trailer!
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