Okay, let's talk about Shaman King (2021), specifically Episode 28 with those sweet, sweet English subtitles.
Anyone else feel like the pacing is... well, let's just say it's got its own *unique* rhythm? I'm not complaining... *too* much.
Episode 28: My (Slightly) Unpopular Opinions
So, Episode 28. It was a thing. A thing with spirits, fighting, and enough backstory to fill a small library.
The Power of Friendship (and Spirit Allies)
Look, I get it. Friendship is powerful. But sometimes, I wish Yoh would just punch someone really hard instead of relying on the power of believing. Am I the only one?
Seriously! Maybe it's just me, but a little less talking and a little more ghost-infused action would be appreciated. Don't get me wrong, Amidamaru is awesome. But even awesome needs a good right hook now and then.
And the power-ups! Oh boy. They are quite convenient aren't they? Like finding the right key to open a door in the nick of time!
The Villains: Are They Actually...Sympathetic?
Okay, this is where I might lose some of you. But hear me out. Some of the villains in Shaman King are kind of... relatable?
Maybe it's the tragic backstories, maybe it's the cool character designs (I'm looking at you, Hao), but I can't help but feel a *little* bit sorry for them sometimes. Maybe a tiny little bit!
Is it wrong to kind of root for the bad guys, just a little? Don't judge me!
The Subtitles: A Love-Hate Relationship
Let's be real, without the English subtitles, I'd be totally lost. Big shoutout to the unsung heroes who translate anime.
However. Sometimes, the subtitles are a little... interpretive. You know? Like, I'm pretty sure that's not *exactly* what they said, but close enough.
And don't even get me started on the times the subtitles disappear for a few crucial seconds during a major plot point. The horror!
Overall: Still Hooked!
Despite my minor gripes, I'm still totally invested in Shaman King (2021). It's a fun ride.
The animation is slick, the characters are (mostly) lovable, and the story is engaging, even if it does occasionally take some detours. And let's face it, Anna's sarcastic quips make everything better.
So, will Yoh become the Shaman King? Will Hao succeed in his, uh, *unique* vision for the world? And most importantly, will the subtitles finally stay synced up for the entire episode?
I guess we'll have to keep watching to find out!
What did you think of Episode 28? Let me know in the comments!