Genre: Action/Drama
Company: Studio Madhouse
Format: 75 episodes
Dates: 10/3/2000 to 3/27/2002
Sports-related anime continue to surprise me, as I expect nothing more than mindless action. Instead, I am frequently presented with sharply-written, deep, and humorous shows which just happen to also contain great action. Hajime no Ippo is, without a doubt, the cream of the crop in the genre.
In a show where everything clicks, the best place to start would be the plot. Ippo's story isn't in-depth with twists and turns, but is instead fairly straight forward: Ippo gains the motivation to box and begins a series of training and fighting. Interspersed throughout are bits and pieces of his home life and interactions with his opponents. This is what brings out feeling, character depth and caring for what happens in the show. The characters are incredibly well-fleshed out in a short period of time; their side of the story is presented well, and this caring on both sides of the boxing card is what draws you into the show.
The animation and art are both fine, on par with other current anime. There are some mighty good tunes throughout the series; I especially liked the first opening Under Star, though I know not everyone shares that opinion. All of the opening and closing themes are used well; additionally, snippets of the themes are oft-played during key fight sequences and really give a nice punch (pun intended). Speaking of which, the in-ring action features a nice blend of realism and anime-style insanity. The action in Princess Nine follows along the same lines. Artistic touches such as smoke and glowing eyes add to the atmosphere.
The only complaint I had was that, being based on a huge manga, the anime opens a few doors that were explored in the manga but, unfortunately, not all of them. A couple of relationships and some one of the other boxer's future paths were briefly mentioned and then never explored. Hopefully an OVA or movie will explain some of it because I will gladly sign on for more of this terrific show.
This is one of the best anime I have ever seen. Hajime no Ippo is up high on my Top 10 anime list, and I would eagerly recommend it to anyone who likes anime... or Rocky. (review by Mugs)
comment: never been a boxing fan and probably will never be. that's how wonderful this anime is. you don't have to have anything to do with boxing. It's about growing up, reaching your goals, respect, be respected, and a lot more.
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