Animation Runner Kuromi - Reviews

I discovered this show at a convention, showing on the cctv anime "channels" the con was running, so you could watch all kinds of anime in your own hotel room. I think it was around 2 am too. I was immediately hooked, and was happily surprised the director was Akitaroh Daichi, who became my favorite anime director not too long after. I eventually got my own copy and had Daichi sign a Kuromi poster when he was a guest in 2005.

This is a one shot OAV that runs about 50 minutes, so about 2 episodes worth. You'd think you couldn't complete a story in that time, but Daichi's genius pacing and creativity pulls it off amazingly. This is a trait of all of his anime he has worked on. His timing and pacing, quick cutting of frenetic jokes really get me rolling.

Oguro Mikiko, nicknamed "Kuromi" is the main character, a new employee to an animation studio eager to make anime, inspired by watching series on tv. She's thrown into a chaotic situation when the director of the series she will work on falls ill (due to job stress supposedly), leaving her to be Production desk manager and get an episode done on time to air. And the fun begins.

There are several characters, those who work in the studio, and while they have limited screen time, we learn about each's personality quirks and such. Such as the lady who wants to talk about her home life, or the chubby guy with low self esteem. This is good for Kuromi who eventually picks up on their quirks and use them to get the work done.

The animation style is the classic late 90's early 2000's as seen in Kodomo no Omocha, though with a little more fluidity and depth as seen in many OAVs.

The music is a simple jazzy kind dance tune that plays repetitvely but totally works with the crazy actions of the animation.

I'd like to think that this is NOT how it is to work in an animation studio but you never know. I wonder what it's like to be in an animation studio with Daichi-san: fun, silly, stressful..!

In the end, despite it being short I give high marks for Kuromi-san and her gang.

Anime in 200 Words: Animation Runner Kuromi

Premise: A young woman lands her dream job in animation and ends up in charge of everything on her first day. The next episode is almost due, but it’s barely even started. Kuromi must learn the ropes and the quirks of her staff if she’s going to meet the deadline.

Mood: There’s a good share of zany antics in this show, but it has serious moments too. Kuromi is insane at work, but insecure at home. I like the balance.

Animation Process: After watching Animation Runner Kuromi, I actually watched several of the special features as well, and it was really interesting to hear people’s reactions to this film. According to many of the staff members who worked on this project, it’s actually pretty accurate in its portrayal of both the artists and the art form itself. I really enjoyed getting a chance to watch the magic happen, so to speak.

Overall: I like the story in Animation Runner Kuromi because it’s simple and optimistic. It was a nice touch to have Kuromi meet one of the people who inspired her, and it makes her motivations more genuine. It’s a really cute movie.

Animation runner Karoumi

 

What would happen if in some alternate universe that a character from the Genshiken Series would graduate from their studies, and with there Otaku sensibility  become the art manager for an anime house. Well then Anime Runner Karoumi is the OVA for you. I really like an anime that gives a behind the looks of the profession of way we watch and live this amazing lifestyle. If I had to give it an American comparison I would have to say it more news radio then the office. I defiantly love he main character Karoumi. After graduating from a prestigious university in Animation, she start work at a little anime studio where she becomes head manager of the latest hit after the last manger quits after an ulcer. If anything her reasoning for her getting in the field is her love for a mock show like Lupin the III and if you stumble upon my site you'll see I'm currently working on a music project based on the man himself. (stupid vein comment). With its silly light hearted style of animation we see our lead character struggle with the day ins and outs of get anime episodes out on schedule. We also see a couple deep moments between its director and Koruomi. Quality of anime is silly and complete Japanese humor. Animation sometimes has a similar style like FLCL.  Soundtrack is horrible. Same song over and over. This is from 2001 so it complete No Doubt ska and I say no thank you to that. Overall it is worth the watch for the more serious Otaku. Not for the beginner. If you grow with anime you will grow to this genre.

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PandaBeard!

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