Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan

Cakeniron Nov 18, 2020

9

Imagine if JoJo went on a honeymoon with Tales From The Crypt.  This is what Thus Spoke...is about about; a Manga Writer in the JoJo world solving ghost stories and confronting the ridiculous. Do you still have the same Stand action? Yes. Do you still have the same homo-eroticisim? Yes.  But are the stories insanely creepin yet hilarious? Yes. I can't wait to read this, because so far...the anime is the best thing that came out this year!

InfantMite44654 Mar 8, 2021

8

The story wasn't overarching, it was rather individual stories per episode, but nonetheless they were very captivating. The stories are told by Kishibe Rohan and focus heavily on other people's experiences which he observed, and usually he is/was looking for content for future manga. Heaven's Door, Kishibe Rohan's stand, made a few appearances which was nice to see. There was lots of gore involved in the story though, so take that as you will.  The animation is like that of the main JoJo series, which I always really liked personally.  The sound ? I mean it was just as you'd expect it to be. I watched it in sub on Netflix and the sound quality was fine. The intro (if you'd call it that) was nowhere near on level with the JoJo intros from the show, but I wouldn't expect it to be so idrc. At the end of most episodes, Kishibe finishes telling his story, and by that time he's been joined by some of the other side protagonists from Part 4, e.g. Koichi, Mikitaka, Yukako, Okuyaso, acting in the way you would usually expect them to. Yukako is still madly in love with Koichi, Okuyaso is still kind and saying what's on his mind, etc. I don't really have many of my own opinions on Kishibe but in most of the episodes he uses his intellect to solve the problems at hand if you like that. There are new characters introduced, but due to the short length of this show, we never really get to know them well, other than Yoma Hashimoto from the last episode. I find him really annoying and rather scary personally.  Overall: if you liked JoJo, and you want to see some more animated JoJo content (part 5 animation no confirmed at the writing of this review), then I'd advise you watch this. It's relatively short as well so there isn't much harm if you don't end up liking it. 

ChineseWick Feb 15, 2024

8

"Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan" is a fascinating and unique addition to the expansive universe of "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure." Centered around Rohan Kishibe, a manga artist with the supernatural ability to read and alter people's memories and fate, this series of OVA episodes delves into the peculiar and often macabre stories that Rohan encounters during his research for manga. Unlike the main JoJo series, which is known for its action-packed battles and flamboyant characters, "Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan" focuses on psychological horror, mystery, and the supernatural, offering a more introspective and eerie tone. Unraveling the Enigmatic Intriguing Storytelling: Each episode presents a standalone story that explores themes of greed, obsession, and the human psyche through supernatural lenses. The narrative's strength lies in its ability to engage and unsettle the viewer, making each tale memorable in its own right. Complex Protagonist: Rohan Kishibe is a compelling character whose dedication to his craft and insatiable curiosity drive the series. His moral ambiguity and aloofness, combined with his extraordinary ability, make him a fascinating figure who navigates the bizarre events he encounters with a unique blend of indifference and determination. Artistic Flair: True to the JoJo legacy, "Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan" boasts distinctive art and animation. The series retains the stylistic elements that fans adore, while its visual storytelling complements the eerie and surreal tales. The animation enhances the atmospheric tension, bringing the series' haunting themes to life. Shadows in the Ink Pacing and Depth: While the episodic format allows for a variety of stories, some viewers may find the pacing uneven or wish for more depth in certain narratives. The brevity of the episodes sometimes leaves little room for character development outside of Rohan, which can make the supporting characters feel underexplored. Expectation vs. Reality: Fans of "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure" expecting the same level of action and battle-centric storytelling may be surprised by the shift in focus to psychological and supernatural elements. While "Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan" enriches the JoJo universe, it represents a departure from the series' traditional themes and style. Through the Looking Glass Creative Exploration: The series shines in its creative exploration of the macabre and the mundane. It pushes the boundaries of storytelling within the JoJo universe, exploring new narrative possibilities and themes. Cultural and Philosophical Underpinnings: The stories often incorporate elements of Japanese folklore and existential questions, enriching the narrative with cultural depth and philosophical contemplation. This adds layers to the series, inviting viewers to ponder the nature of fate, creativity, and human desire. Conclusion "Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan" stands out as a distinctive and intriguing series that delves into the darker and more mysterious aspects of the human experience through the lens of supernatural phenomena. It offers a fresh perspective within the "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure" universe, captivating viewers with its psychological depth, unique storytelling, and artistic excellence. While it may diverge from the expectations set by the main series, it provides a compelling exploration of themes that resonate on a universal level. For fans and newcomers alike, "Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan" is a mesmerizing journey into the bizarre, showcasing the versatility and depth of the JoJo universe.